"Here I am getting scotched in Cardhu," the author writes.

A decade ago, when I hit 60, I began to see that birthday gifts were overrated, that what I needed were shared experiences. As my 70th approached, I felt motivated to do something meaningful. Something personal. I asked myself, what can I do to fill my memory bank? Swim 70 laps? Make 70 charity donations? String a necklace with 70 heirloom beads? More than anything, I wanted to spend cherished time with loved ones. And I was not alone. According to research, people derive more happiness from experiences. Spending quality time with friends and family fosters satisfaction and enduring memories become embedded in the brain.

My objective was to do something that would sidestep the fret of sorting out a guest list as well as the fuss of planning and hosting a party during the holidays, a particular chore for me, given that I was born the day after Christmas. A list maker, I landed a plan. I would log 70 experiences during the year with the people I love. Their job: to propose. My job: to say yes.

On January 4, 2023, I composed the following email:

Dear person I love,

Having just rolled past 69, I am thinking about the large number looming on the horizon.

To honour that large number, I want to log in 70 experiences in 2023 with people I love. My goal is to say yes to whatever you might propose, no matter how big or small. Anything from a cup of coffee to a trip to a national park; from a walk in the woods to a Broadway show; from a manicure to a dance party.

But please, no thrill-seeking. No roller coasters or bungee jumping. And nothing that involves a shark tank.

I look forward to saying yes to your proposal, to a calendar full of one-of-a-kind events and to fully enjoying memorable moments with you.

With love,

Megan

"Grooving with my sisters at the Monterey Jazz Festival," the author writes.

I pressed send, wondering if people would take my request seriously or regard it as yet another big idea, a so-called Meganism. My daughter was the first to respond, Best plan ever! My inbox quickly swelled with offers. Come pick raspberries on my farm. I’ll make you pizza. Let’s go glamping!How about a theater trip to London? We can walk a labyrinth. Let’s sip high tea wearing hats and gloves at a fancy hotel. A special walk along the bay?I’m taking you to a modern dance class.

As responses multiplied, I felt gratitude for my fabulous roster of longtime friends and for the inspired menu being laid out before me. But........

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