Thank God I live in the modern era.

Tonight, I was able to talk to my brother for this first time since he was deployed 4 months ago. Up until now, the only way I knew he was still alive was from the occasional phone call that he'd make to my parents' house (which would be relayed to me at a later date) and the random Facebook update. Spent 20 mins or so on Facebook chat with him, which was wonderfully unexpected. To think that only a decade ago, such a thing would not be possible. Finally got a suggestion from him as to what to get him for Christmas, so I'll hold off until Thanksgiving to get it, when I'll be in a proper city with decent shopping. Stiff upper lip and all that now, even though I still fear for his safety. At least he's over half done with his deployment (3.5 months left) and I'll see him at Christmas.