Right now, I’m having a video chat with CM and the boy. Like CM posted earlier this week, we’ve been having quick talks on the pre-paid cell phones, but it’s so much nicer to see them in person, even if it’s grainy, strangely-colored person.
I know we all say this — at least those of us born in the ’70s — but how did we ever communicate without the Internet? If I were to talk with a romantic interest across the country when I was growing up, it would involve either a $35 long-distance phone call or (gasp!) writing a letter.
Fortunately, I never had to take those extreme measures. Unfortunately, it’s because romantic interest was as plentiful as baskets I scored in JV basketball: none.
If you haven’t gotten into video chatting, I highly recommend it. Especially if you have a baby or one on the way. Keeping the grandparents happy is key. They are your free babysitters and reliable suppliers of toys and clothes.
Webcams are quite cheap these days, especially when you get them with rebates like we did with these. Actually, these are $10 after rebate right now, so that conveniently proves my point!
I’ll go ahead and review the webcam for you. For $10 after rebate, it’s a great deal. With good lighting and a fast internet connection, the video is clear. With the usual dim indoor lighting, the video will get grainy, but we’re fine with it. After all, it was ten bucks. A piece of our chat for you:
And with Skype, you have free, unlimited video chatting. So, there’s little reason not to jump right in. It sure beats the Pony Express.
i use skype all the time! i talk to my friend in australia several times a week. for free!
Wow – I guess I need to buy one of these. All of our fam is in Oregon. We see them maybe once every 18 months or so.
Guess I know what everyone’s getting for Christmas this year!!!
Would this work on a desktop computer? That’s what my mom has. But in looking at some of the Amazon reviews they recommend a FAST computer too. That’s not what my mom has. DSL? Yes, but not a fast processor.
Maybe I can find one for her later, because I know my kids would like to see her on the screen like that while talking.
tam – nice. i need to find me some Aussie friends.
mandy – that’s what we gave the Cool Grandparents last Christmas. they were perfect gifts.
blake – yes, this webcam would work on a desktop, too, but it probably wouldn’t clip onto the screen (unless she had an LCD flat panel monitor). i’m sure you could figure out another way to prop it up. yeah, a fast-ish computer would help a lot, especially the video card, i bet.