I don't really play anymore but I try to check in every 4-6 weeks and talk to everyone. I have to ignore the weeds though unless it's late enough to find wisp.
I never had a GameCube, I play it on my Wii, and I've literally only just started playing it! I started with Wild World and I was battling with myself about buying the GC one for ages and finally done it...I don't regret the choice and I'm really enjoying the game