How to Keep in Touch After Moving Away

One of the most difficult parts of a move comes after the move is over--keeping in touch with friends and family over a distance. If they are people who are important to you and relationships that you want to keep, it's going to take some effort--but have fun with the distance and be creative.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Don't promise to call anyone during the move, even just thinking about it will stress you out. You have a lot going on; give yourself time to settle in to your new home and time to focus on yourself and your family. Your friends and relatives will understand that once you are ready and have time, you will call.
2. Communicate over the Internet. Even if you have just a few minutes to write, e-mail small updates, good news, etc. to those you love. People will appreciate you thinking of them and it will keep them close to you. Plus, you will probably get a small update back!
   
   Children and teenagers often use instant messenger, Facebook, MySpace and other online social networks to keep in touch via the Internet. These are great ways to communicate for people of any age, however, parents should monitor their children's accounts for any unusual activity.
3. Use snail mail. Remember how great it feels to actually get a letter in the mail? Write letters, short notes, postcards ... I carry a stamped note card in my purse and if I have 5 minutes of down-time, I'll write a quick "hi" to one of my friends or grandparents.
4. Send packages and make someone's day. They don't have to be much: a couple of pictures and a favorite recipe to a friend. A small box of herbal tea for your mother. Again, just a small token to remind someone that you are thinking about them and that you care.
5. Call when you can. It's often difficult to find time in busy schedules to commit to a lengthy phone call, but if you are keeping in touch in other ways, it doesn't have to be too lengthy. Try to call immediate family every week or two, friends every month or two and extended family every few months. Connecting with someone who you miss and love will give you a boost of energy and happiness after you get off the phone.
6. Visit your friends and family on vacation! Now that you've moved away, you are an expert tourist in your old home. You'll be surprised how much you missed your favorite restaurants, how much you enjoy driving on familiar roads and ... visiting with old friends and family. It will feel like you never left since you've kept in touch so well.