Every morning as I power up my laptop computer, a news or finance screen tries to grab my attention. Today it was MSN with "10 ways to age well on a shoestring." I slowed down to read the advice. The list was mostly predictable: exercise, healthy diet, plenty of sleep, mental stimulation, stay connected with other people, volunteer...

And then a tip that took me by surprise, although I regularly try to pass it on to readers of this blog. WRITE IT DOWN! Here's the gist of 'aging well' item #10: Everyone has a story to tell. Why not record it for future generations? Wouldn't it be great if you could read a story your great-grandmother had written about her life? Think about giving that gift to your descendants (or a future family historian). It doesn't have to cost much money - just purchase a notebook at the dollar store, or start typing your memories on your computer.