One of the benefits having a computer is the ability to keep in touch with people you don't see often--or haven't seen in years.

I originally joined facebook so that I could spy keep my eye on my teenage son, since he was on that site, sharing photos with friends.  apple-iic

I've recently discovered that I have a whole bunch of cousins, aunts, nieces, and a sister-in-law on facebook!   We have been sharing family traditions, holiday memories, and updates on everyone's lives.  I'm enjoying the pictures of my cousins' kids, since none of us live in the same area! And it's good to keep in touch, no matter what way you choose.

My dad is mystified that I am communicating with the cousins in this manner. He refuses to look at facebook, but he did say that he received a "demand" to join it and be added as a friend, from one of his accounting students. And my sister said that if her cousins want to communicate with her, they can find some other way to do it.

Without facebook, I doubt that I'd have reconnected with some of my friends from college.  It's been almost 25 years since I saw some of them, so it's wonderful to catch up.  A little embarrassing, too, since now the old photos are starting to go up.  Do I really want my kids to see my bad freshman-year haircut?  (There's a reason I don't keep my old photo albums around for all to see...)

When I was in college, typing research papers on Apple II's, I never dreamed that I'd one day be using computers to exchange photos, stories and memories with the friends who surrounded me.

COUPON TIME

Whether you use computers to keep track of your business or keep up with friends, these coupons can help you get a great deal on a new system or components!

25% off select Studio Desktops over $1299 at Dell
Use coupon code F3TVP?S04MVD3Z.
Valid through: January 9, 2009

Up to a $100 Rebate when you buy a Mac and qualifying printer
Use this link to get all the details.
Offer valid through: January 19, 2009
Rebate will equal what you paid for the printer up to a maximum of $100.

10% off your purchase at Computer Geeks
Use coupon code ultimatecoupons.
Valid through: March 1, 2009

$30 off online orders over $150 at HP Home & Home Office
Use coupon code SV2132.
Valid through: January 31, 2009

10% off online orders at Symantec
Use coupon code 10offsid. Valid through: January 10, 2009
Online only. Cannot be combined with other coupon codes.