Staying well-connected to grandparents is important

Dear Abby: My son “Travis,” age 9, is computer savvy, but his “Luddite” grandparents (my in- laws) live far away from us and don’t even have internet access. They are no longer able to travel, and our finances prohibit frequent visits to them.

Travis could be Skyping them, and they could have a vital relationship through the miracle of modern technology. Instead, he will take their phone calls only occasionally, and enjoys the annual visit with them — but mainly because of the other relatives there.

If these were my parents (who are sadly long gone), I’d set them up on Skype and have them at least try. When his grandparents are no longer able to live on their own and move to assisted living, will that offer at least a hope of virtual connectivity? manage them quite well. If your in-laws have a smartphone, they could talk to your son via video chat.

Dear Abby: I have been playing the piano for five years and I still enjoy it. But over the past year and a half, going for lessons every week and having to practice is getting old for me. In fact, I’m beginning to loathe it. It’s not the teacher, it’s not my parents — it’s me. I’m just over all of the lessons and remembering to practice. My heart isn’t in it anymore. What do you think I should do?

Dear Ryan After five years of weekly lessons and diligent practice, you should have a solid musical education by now. You may need to take a break, change teachers or even change instruments. Your teacher may have a broader perspective on this, so take your guidance from the pro.