Whoever created Video Chatting...

should earn a Nobel Peace Prize.

First, I'd like to thank my aunt and uncle for buying Fuji Braeburn for me as a gift for doing well at UVA.

Second, thank goodness I can video chat.

Physically, I'm on an isolated island in Culpeper. There aren't many people my age that are paralleling my life (basically most of them have 2 children). Yet, socially and emotionally, I'm connected...far from isolated.

How has video chat saved my social soul this past year?

~During the blizzard, I was able to chat with people outside of the house while holed up for 2 weeks.

~Ellen can check my make-up or outfit before going on a date.

~Christina can call me anytime for a quick conversation. And then, call me back 5 minutes later for another quick conversation. Just like sisters.

~Only Kat and I can assume our favorite positions of laying in the bed with a plop of hair (prior to 2 weeks ago for me) while talking to one another.

~I can listen to G sing the same song for the 1,000 time.

~Christina can read a Dr. Seuss book to my kids on Dr. Seuss's birthday.

~Ellen and I can quickly dive deep late into the night.

~I can call a friend and check in on them. Seeing someone allows you to know more than by just hearing his/her voice.

~We can share news with each other and see authentic expressions of happiness, encouragement, and support.

~It allows quick venting sessions.

~It allows Rebecca and I to ask each other questions and discuss life.

~We can share our days together and offer a shoulder (virtual) to lean on.

~Our families stay connected as my parents, Christina's parents, and Ellen's parents jump on video chat to 'see' one another.

~I could video chat into the Bible Study I had to leave in Cville last semester.

~We get to see each other exhausted, without makeup in our purest modes.

~We can share the latest, cutest purchases we have made.

I SALUTE YOU-CREATOR OF VIDEO CHAT! for keeping me connected and helping my friendships thrive!

Moral of the Story: “Long distance relationships are like wind to a fire; it puts out the small ones, but inflames the big ones.”

This is how I know the lyrics to songs when I go out with Ellen in DC. H in Cville makes me listen to 101.9. But, if you can find me a country version then I'm in.