I don't know how pilot families did it before cell phones!
DH left his at a hotel last Friday and happened to overnight there again this Friday so he just picked it up last night. In total, we went through four flying days without it and it was miserable. At least the hotel number is on his schedule, but I had to time my calls to him so that he was there, but not out for dinner, in the shower, etc. I guess we could have bought a calling card but that seemed a bit like a waste when I could call him for free with a little patience. Then, don't get me started on not being able to talk to him during the day! Of course, DS1 decided to start having trouble with his dad being gone on these trips and not being able to talk to his Dad was not cool.
I really don't think I could do this without our phones. It means so much to be able to chat quickly before he takes off just because he's thinking of us, for DS to talk to him or the VM anytime he wants, and for all of us to be able to send a picture, or text about something that is happening throughout the day.
So, for those of you who have been doing this for many years, my hat is off to you.
Jackie