Communication

The biggest change from the last time we lived here (30 years ago) is in the ease of communication. Although this is obvious, it still takes you by surprise. These are the things I have been thinking about:

- It is possible that we could end up communicating even more with family than we do at home - through Skype. It is amazing that we are able to speak to them at home - through the computer - for free - and even if we Skype a land line at home it is very cheap. And even the Skype software can be downloaded for free.

- I was able to start work almost immediately - within a week - connecting with people in England, via Moodle, email and Skype. An internet connection and broadband has been very easy to get here - and even wireless does not raise any eyebrows - although you have to be very careful with security in relation to wireless. Tip - don't use the wireless areas in an airport in Brazil!

- It is strange to see people using mobiles on the beach. Mobiles didn't even exist last time we lived here. Do we really need to use a mobile on a beautiful white sand beach in a stunning location?

- When we lived here 30 years ago - we didn't use the phone (far too expensive). We did write a lot (letters!). Now we write emails, blogs etc.

- I am spending a lot of time on my computer here - but perhaps that is normal!

- Do we over-communicate now?