My daughter opened up a Snapple bottle the other day and in the cap there was an interesting fact..."Ball Point Pens were introduced in 1945 at a price of $12.00"

Wow...$12.00 in 1945...I think I calculated the inflation correctly that would be around $125 today...OK, so still not quite as much as an iPhone, but I can imagine the hype surrounding this new invention.

The amazing thing about this invetnion is that even today it is probably the most profitable piece of technology I own.  I have a couple PC's, three Macs, PDA's, webcams, cell phones (maybe iphone soon!) and all are great in today's marketing world...but there is something about using my pen, and the more I use it the more results I get.

About a year ago I really made a commitment to send as many handwritten notes and thank you cards as I can even though I have awful handwriting.  This has made a huge difference in the feedback I get from my clients and friends...and I think the impact is bigger now more than ever because everyone realizes there are quick efficient ways to send notes (IM, email, etc.) so they realize the effort and reward me for it.

As you spend the rest of the blogging, emailing, or whatever...I challenge you to get out your pen and write five random notes to your friends or past clients...you may not get ActiveRain points, but I bet you score something even better.

Have a fantastic day!