Topic: The wonderful world of instant messengers, webcams, etc.
It's been suggested to me off board that there might be a few board members who haven't yet entered the world of instant contact on the web, and who might therefore benefit from a quick primer on how it all works. So, here, for those who might need it, is Instant Messengering 101.
All this stuff is FREE.
If you've never done it before because you've heard internet 'chat room' horror stories or such like, don't worry, this is totally safe. You only talk to people you want to talk to. Others cannot start conversations with you unless they have your 'nickname'. These are not 'chat rooms', but direct connections between two or more willing participants.
Windows has a built in messenger called 'Windows Live Messenger'. If you activate one that has never been used before on your pc, you'll be told that a newer version is available - go for it. The current version is 8.5xx
All you need to start is to have the program installed (all free downloads) and an email address to sign up with. In the old days you had to have a hotmail or msn address to you use MSN messenger (the precursor of Windows Live Messenger - WLM), but that's no longer the case. You can use any email address now, though I think you still need a Yahoo address for YIM (Yahoo Instant Messenger). The current version is 8.1xx
Both WLM and YIM allow you to write one-on-one texts back and forth. Both also allow group chat sessions. Both have lots of smilies available and loads of other features that I rarely, if ever, use. Both also support voice and video communication, unless you have a very old version. This means you can talk with your conversation partner if you both have microphones and speakers. You can also use a webcam in real time if you both have one. Cathy and I have been spending time like this with each other for months now and it works a treat, on the whole.
Then there's Skype, which is a phone program. You can use Skype for free with pc to pc voice and video. They also have a service that costs (a little) with which you can call any phone from your pc.
What's cool about all these programs is that they allow you to stay in regular touch with friends anywhere in the world (time zone issues permitting) in a fun way, and for free. What could be better than that? 
All these programs are safe. No strangers can 'intrude' on your conversation. If anyone ever hassles you, you just block them. Lastly, it's a good idea to exchange contact names and email addresses in private rather than on a public board.
Rock On and keep the Faith
!
