@rodi and @Midpack, thanks for the good reminders.
I had my first last year at age 50. One 6mm adenoma, which is a pre-cancerous polyp, was removed. So I am due back at age 55 and have it on my calendar. Since they found something in the first one, my understanding is the second one is on my nickel. I'm OK with that.
Regarding prep, my doctor said to chill it, mix with Sprite, and drink it slowly through a straw. Those all probably helped, although Sprite-flavored prep stuff is kinda weird and might create a negative association.
I also was given a "split prep", so I did half the night before and half the morning of. Worked just fine and as others have said, not as bad as people say it is.
Maybe get baby wipes and a good book.
The only thing I'd probably do differently is schedule my appointment for a little bit later in the morning. The second half of the split prep had to be completed IIRC four hours prior, and my appointment was at 9am, so having to get up at 4am and prep was not the most enjoyable way to spend the middle of my night.
I also have had the Shingrix shots, and will plan on pneumonia and flu shots as needed. If I go to
https://engaging-data.com/will-money-last-retire-early/ and plug in my numbers, I've got basically zero chance of ever running out of money but a 20% chance of being dead by 70, so I figure paying attention to my health is time well spent.