9You have the power to make someone feel happy, appreciated, and special -

Do you remember the letters you received from your grandmother? Or the Valentine's card you got from your first boyfriend-the one that's still tucked away in a drawer? Did you know our military has relied on handwritten letters for years to keep love alive?

Handwritten notes and letters are cherished mementos. They are true gifts. There's something special about a greeting card, postcard, or blank piece of paper in someone's unique, one-of-a-kind handwriting. They're personal. Authentic. Meaningful.

And they make us feel loved.

Now more than ever we need to spread that spirit of love. We need to slow down, unplug from technology and reconnect with people. And what better way than with a handwritten letter?

Join the A Letter A Week journey. This journal lets you log all the letters you write over the year and gives you tips and ideas to inspire you along the way.

So put down your phone and pick up your pen. A few sentences or pages-no letter is too short or long. Give someone the gift of a letter in their mailbox, on their desk, or under their car windshield.

"I've always loved the art of handwritten letters. Especially these days when almost everything is digital. Writing or receiving a letter is something that can shift your whole day."

- Alexandra Franzen,

author of The Checklist Book and You're Going to Survive

Julie Merrick loves all things related to letter writing. Connect with her on Instagram @aletteraweek