i just figured out how to see my niece and nephew on the internet.  i bought one of those little clip on video cams from the local electronics store and they got one on their end.  we use the free msn service and i sign on every night (you don't have to do it that frequently) and i get to talk to them and see them at the same time (it's free).  i listen to them take their piano lessons, they read me the sunday paper to practice reading (i correct them as needed) and i can read along because we get the same insert in our paper out here that they do.

if anyone is interested in doing this i'll outline it for you further.  my brother says it's the best thing i've ever thought of.  i know i really enjoy it and feel like i'm much more a part of the kids development and lives.