I definitely have gone through this/still am going through it. I’m a big believer in two things...1. If they’re true friends, they shouldn’t be upset if you can only talk every so often. & 2. Also, if you do get together with them twice a year and you find yourself searching for talking topics or just the natural friendship stuff, then there’s a disconnect there and it’s possible you aren’t as close as you thought. As sad as that may be (trust me, I’ve gone through it) it might be best for both of you. People grow up and people grow apart, unfortunately that’s how life is. We become the next version of ourselves as we grow with new goals and priorities, which is good!
I don’t have any strategies to improve communication for you, but I will say that even a small gif or “hey, hope you’re doing well” is great to hear! Even if there’s no follow up conversation that can happen at the moment, it lets the other person know you’ve crossed their mind.☺️