So, Skype

I have an account, and $8 of credit. I'd try calling someone but I'd probably croak on the phone. Should I bother getting a Skype number? I know at least a couple of you have Skype, how do you tend to use it?

Also, how the hell did western Massachusetts get the 413 area code, when eastern/Boston had 617? I'm sure a jillion more people live in/around Boston.