Virtual Family Gathering - Reaching out in a different kind of way?

[John Costilla]

So getting together and keeping in touch seems to be getting easier to do as the technology improves. So what does that mean? If folks are just a click a way, how come we seldom stay in touch. Birthdays or special events seem to draw us near, but how do we find ways to get together more often.

Here's what I suggest, we host a monthly chat, blog or find some cool tool where we all jump on board at the exact same time on the exact same day. Each member introduces themself and has five minutes to update the rest of us as to what is going on in their life. As part of this, we have a spot where we can post videos, photos or audio files just for kicks. Can we do it?

I'm sure we can...

Do you have any suggestions for tools we can use or a particular time of day...

I think stuff like Instant Messanger, Skype or other tools might do the trick. Here's the call to action - contribute back to this blog with your thoughts or ideas for when and how we do this. If you know of a cool technology to make this happen, share with the group. If you have a specific time that might work best, share with the group.

My commitment to you is that once I hear back from a number of you, I will post what works best then send an all group email with the exact date and time for everyone to join in. think of it as a virtual family reunion!

[John Costilla]

I hope everyone enjoyed the virtual gathering online yesterday. We had Jamie, Janie, Sophia, Me, America, AC Josh, Joe, Thomas and Ester online. I will post when our next virtual gathering will be soon. We need more folks to join from all over next time.

[John Costilla]

Okay, if you are reading this, I have found a tool taht we can use to all chat with each other on "that" majic day... If you go to the main page on RIB Circles, you will see a new window with a blue box called PLADEO. It does not require you to sign up for anything, simply change the name of guest to your name and click enter; you will show up on the list. Anyone else who is online at that time can also join in and chat... I'm going to send a group email to see if all can join in on the chat this weekend... We'll give it a good kick!!!

[Ramiro and Sandra]

Hi Thio, i love the idea of everyone getting together the same time. Not to mention Aaron and I have a birthday coming up in Oct. 1 & 6. You can always find me on Rib Circles everyday. Hope to here from everyone soon. ttyl

[Juanita G. Costilla]

Hey John,
Love the pictures! Jaime has taken the plane out today for the first time. Josh took his camera and hopefully we will have the footage for all to see soon. Lots happening this month with school and Jaime Antonio starting college. ttys
Janie