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Although our kids are in their 30s, working professionals and live in another city, my wife insists they keep in close touch when they're traveling. The era of the cell phone and internet has made that task both easy and, at least for we parents, enjoyable.

One son recently went on a business trip to China. His client firm paid for everything, including first class air tickets. Throughout the trip, we received many calls, and most exciting, digital photos on the internet as the events happened. We saw him lounging in his comfy seat/bed on the plane. He posed with locals and Chinese soldiers at Tianamin (sp?) Square in Beijing. He sent photos of dining at various Hong Kong restaurants, including one on a sampan in the harbor. He then showed up riding a rickshaw and later perched on a camel.

Because he was so thoughtful, we had the vicarious thrill of sharing in his adventures. Next month, the same company is sending him to France, where he'll attend the Cannes Film Festival. He promised his dad he'll be sure to take his camera to the most posh events and get photos of famed actors. He also intends to go to the beach to get shots of the famed topless bathers just for his dad. Now, there's a thoughtful son!

Our daughter is a TV writer/producer, and travels frequently on assignments. Her trips are planned by a big travel agency, and our daughter makes sure her printed itineraries are always emailed to us. She also send photos, which also often include famous people she encounters. We can always check both of their itineraries, and if there's a family emergency, get in touch within minutes. Fortunately, it has never happened, but it is comforting to know the option is always there.

When we parents travel, we do the same. We recently crossed the country from West to East to attend a large family gathering. Our busy kids couldn't make the trip, but I shot some photos, made up a composite email page and sent them to the absentees. They were very much appreciated. As usual, we talked by cell phone several times during the trip.

Although we never do it ... too old and too frightened ... our kids often cell phone us while driving. They both live in a big, busy city and are often stuck in traffic during drive time. That's when they call. All of us find that another best time to call is when in the airport waiting for a flight. In both situations, talking on the phone is not only convenient, but helps pass the frustrating time.

Learn more about this author, Ted Sherman.
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