Some tips from the Dollar Stretcher newsletter for developing a close relationship with faraway grandchildren:

Send short e-mails at least once a week. It is a quick and effective way to keep in touch. Find Web sites that pertain to your grandchild's interests and hobbies, and include a link.

Clip articles, puzzles, comic strips and jokes from the newspaper and send them to your grandchild.

Pick up brochures from museums or special events that you attend - or get doubles of your photos - and send them with a short note.

Write a fill-in-the-blank questionnaire and send it to your grandchild with a self-addressed, stamped envelope. It's a simple and fun way to learn what they've been up to.

With older grandchildren, seek their input on a situation or problem you are grappling with.

Make a cassette tape letter. For younger grandchildren, read a storybook on tape.

Collect inspirational quotes and stories that resonate with you, and create a journal capturing your thoughts in writing. Send it to your grandchild.