Loss of jobs, foreclosure and low investor confidence are a few of the many stressful headlines that seem to dominate our news. While promises of hope and change loom in our thoughts, adults can't help but to feel added stress. Unfortunately, that stress tends to affect everyone around us, including our children.

The solutions for many of the problems in today's world will take time to figure out, however, as a family, we can take a moment to focus on some of the more positive aspects of our day and life in general. In "The Sound of Music," Julie Andrews starts by singing a list of her favorite things, starting with "raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens."

At home and in school, we can set aside a few moments each day to keep a list of some of the simple things that make us smile or like in the movie, a few of our favorite things. I have so many favorite things: the smell of flowers blossoming, receiving a card in the mail, the sound of laughter, my husbands smile, a good book and a piece of chocolate are just a few that bring a smile to my face.

As a family, make a daily or weekly list of things that make you happy. If you keep the lists together, you can compare days and see which days you were happier and look for the changes or additions to your list. Remember... it's your family's list, so nothing should be considered silly or insignificant as long as it makes someone in the room smile.

While we may not be able to solve the world's stress, sharing our happy thoughts with each other will remind us of the little things in life that we can often take for granted... like a child's laughter or a good piece of Godiva chocolate!