(((DePressMe)))
me too.
the thing i find that eases the distance for me is mailing cards, postcards, and sending flowers, candy, and special things from my area. Also, i made my own notecards this year - just to send 'i miss you' on.
there is the phone, that's good too, but sending a picture, a little 'just because' gift or note, makes me feel like i am there with them. i imagine their faces and eagerly await their calls that they 'got it' ...
peace and comfort,
nightbird