In the not-so-distant past, bored college and high school students were the stereotypical text messagers. Today, with unlimited text packages for as low as $20 a month, nearly 60% of Americans frequently text.*

On a typical day, 31 percent of Americans will send a text message, totaling over a staggering billion text messages.

Americans regularly use their text service to vote for favorite contestants on television and receive news, weather and emergency updates. Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton utilize text messages as a cheap, yet highly effective, campaigning technique. Companies send text messages to customers announcing sales or new products and even offer coupons via text message. Plus, text messages offer another way for parents, kids and friends alike to stay in touch.

Charm asked readers about their texting habits to get a pulse on what's really going on with texting in East Texas.

Linda Donaldson of Longview describes herself as a definite texter. She and her daughters text each other an average of 10-30 times a day, depending on the day of the week and what is taking place that day or night.

"It is faster, and I can't explain why, but my daughters respond to my text messages at times when they seem to be ignoring the phone ringing. They say it is easier to text," Linda said.

Alex Wacasey of White Oak prefers to talk, but utilizes her PDA to text her fiancé 5-10 times a day. Alex is a stay-at-home mom who also watches other children to contribute to the family income.

"Text messaging is a great way to communicate silently when verbal interactions are not convenient!" she said.

Remember gals, texting should always be fun and safe. Anyone can text with minimal practice, so don't be intimidated. Charm wants to remind readers to never text while driving. If you can't wait until you're out of the car, use your hands free and go "old school" – call.

**All statistics can be found at textmessageblog.mobi