[DisasterRadio] Joining the network?

Good day! I've recently been very captivated by the LoRa movement, and I started out last year using the LoRa chipset to fly drones kilometer after kilometer with telemetry. Then yesterday I had a plan to order some hardware to build two terminals for my kids so that they can chat! (or IM if u will..) Haven't quite landed on screen size yet, but I'm thinking a 4" should be more than enough. Then for input I'm thinking oldskool texting like I did when I was a kid, a numpad with three letters on each number. Or just a few buttons would work too scrolling through. I am building this! If anyone has any ideas or tips, please find me! Then I found your project! Disaster Radio! And I luv it!! So I want to build a node! Here, in Norway! Best regards, Roger