Oh go and visit...both the kids and your son will love seeing you!!! I do know how hard it is...my son was stationed soooo farr away that I only saw him once a year if that ...so glad he is now stationed only 1 hour 1/2 away. Get on Skpe!!! It makes a world of difference! We would only do it on holidays and here and there...but it was awesome!!! Just like they were visiting us here at the house. Also texting....on the cell phone get unlimited...and use it daily...