"We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures." ~ Thornton Wilder

It sounds too simple that being grateful and appreciative can have such a powerful impact on our health, relationships and outlook, but they do. Researchers are now discovering that people who openly express their appreciation and gratitude experience more optimism, life satisfaction, and energy.

And, in recent scientific findings, people who feel grateful have been shown to experience less stomach upset, headaches, anxiousness and other stress and dis-ease related symptoms. They're not only happier; they are more contented with their relationships. Gratitude is healing and energizing and can pump up our energy and vitality.

So how hard can it be to be aware of all the little wonders and moments of thankfulness we have that often go unnoticed in a day, a week, a year? Now is the time to acknowledge them and even write them down. Why bother to write them? It's