how did people live without internet?

For as long as I was old enough to use a computer I remember having an e-mail... Mr Carlos gave my family an old computer and put Juno on it. The connection was slow and I had no one to really e-mail but it was there if I needed it. If you would have told me back then that my mom was going to "journal" online I would have called you a liar. We were not allowed to have our names or initials anywhere in our e-mail address for fear of identity theft or child predators. Now she tells great stories about our family and friends for anyone to see... but I digress! So in these wee hours of the morning I am up once again with an aching back. In an effort to pass the time before everyone wakes up and I can go soak in the tub in mom and dads room, I get on my social networking sights to catch up on things going on. I usually just look at new picture my friends have posted, check on some of the girls from high school who are planning weddings or having babies, but this morning was a special treat. My cousin who lives in Arkansas was up as well, we got to chat and catch up on things since Meagan's wedding. He got to hear about how my husband and children were doing and I got to hear about his many college adventures. This is someone that I see maybe once a year but we are able to talk non stop for an hour and a half. I am just so thankful for this thing we call Internet where I can stay close with family. I think it also prompts mom and dad to talk to their siblings on the phone more often. They are always so shocked to hear that we have the latest news from our cousins before they do. I think I am going to challenge myself to be better about sending an e-mail or text when I am thinking about someone. Life gets so hectic that I never get around to doing it but I really enjoy getting a response when I do take the time. Thanks Al Gore... lol just kidding!