20 things to get before you're 40

Our Opinion pages colleague, Lisa Boyles, turned 40 recently, so those of us who are older than she is have been all been piling on the advice for life. I clipped an article for her from Marie Claire magazine that's titled "20 Things to Get Before You're 40."

Here's the first part of their list, with my comments:

1. Dead-serious piece of timeless clothing. They suggest a YSL tux for women at $3,560. Oh, please. Buy a dead-serious tux for your husband and just look at him. Now, that's timeless.

2. A look. "Figure it out and shop accordingly." Just one look? How boring is that?

3. A piece of art. They say it's time to start an actual art collection. Definitely -- but don't buy "names" but buy only what you love from artists who are good people.

4. A first edition. OK, but only if it's a book you truly adore.

5. Fancy luggage - a matched set. They recommend Gucci's Guccisima line at $3,350. What a colossal waste of money. Have you seen what the airlines do to your luggage? Matching? Well, OK, but why would you give them something expensive that they'll just drop two stories into a cargo bin 10 minutes after it leaves your hands?
Enlightened. Go see the Dalai Lama in India. For his schedule visit www.dalailama.com. That could be fun, but again, just one?

6. My No. 1 was last on Marie Claire's list, which is to get pregnant -- I would add with your husband and soulmate. Marie Claire didn't mention a partner in their list... a huge omission. Lisa's already got all of that covered anyway about four years ago with her great husband, reporter Denny Boyles of the newsroom, and some super kids. I like most of the things on the magazine list, but I would also add a house you love; and a great job that challenges you, working for a boss you admire, learn from and have fun working for (not to be confused with No. 1).

How about those of you before and after 40 -- give Lisa your advice on things to get before you're 40.