As times and technology have changed, so have the ways in which we communicate. With families constantly on the move; dad on a business trip, mom at a meeting, one kid at soccer practice and one away at college, it’s difficult to keep track of everyone! Luckily mobile devices and their Internet tool counterparts have evolved to meet the needs of our mobile lifestyles.

Skype*: How do you keep your long distance phone bill from rising when your family is spread across the globe? Skype* is a free downloadable PC to PC calling system that allows you to keep in touch with friends and family. Web-cameras, often embedded into your PC or purchased separately, make face to face interaction possible. You’ll likely feel as though your family is right there with you. It’s easy to get started, visit skype.com to get set up!

Blog: Set up a family blog to share stories, photos and updates with family members all over the world. Sites like wordpress.com and blogger.com make blogging easy and allow for two-way communication through blog comments and links to relevant sites.

Encourage your family members to blog as well and don’t just read it: respond. Give feedback and have a conversation with one another. But remember – the comment sections of blogs are often public and aren’t always the best forum to share inside jokes or personal stories.

Twitter*: On-the-go and don’t have time to call? Set up a Twitter account to give and receive real-time updates in 140 characters or less. Twitter makes it easy to let your friends and family know where you are, if you’re running late or your plans change. It’s also a great way to give updates about the next stop on your road trip or vacation. Check it out at www.twitter.com to get started!

YouTube*: Want to send grandma a video of the new baby? Grab a device like an Flip MinoHD* digital camera and post your home videos online on sites like YouTube.com or Google* Video. Nothing is a substitute for having your family members physically with you, but posting your memories is a great way to keep family members in the loop.