I too was a Skype dummy until I used it on two trips to Australia this year.

cotomom, one thing which wasn't mentioned is that you both have to be on the computer at the same time when you use the free wifi version. It's not like a phone where you can call someone and the phone will ring. So you should set up in advance what time you will be Skypeing them. If their computer isn't on with Skype running in the background you won't be able to reach them using the free service. Although if they are children of a certain age they will always be on line so that's not an issue.

Also, make sure both of you have microphones for your computers. Most laptops have them built in, but you may prefer to get an inexpensive headset. Many desktops do not come with a microphone, so they will need one also.

I found the Skype out service quite inexpensive and nice when calling Mom89339 who doesn't have a computer. All I had to do was put $10 on account and it deducts it as I use it. I still have over $7 left in the account and I checked in on her every day while I was out of the country.