• Two years ago, I came up with the idea to email my grandmother every Friday. • I keep her up-to-date with my travels, and she offers advice and keeps updated about family news. • Our messages help me feel connected even when I'm so far from home.

Growing up, I often lived in a different state or country from my grandma, who turned 106 years old in June. I knew her mostly from the letters she wrote me, which I'd save in my desk, and my parents would have to remind me to write back or call.

But two years ago, just before I started graduate school abroad, I decided I wanted to take the initiative to have a closer relationship with her and came up with the idea to email her every Friday.

Although I only see her every year or two, we've kept up our email tradition ever since. They make

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