Lost American in London Gets Lifeline

Stardate 09.29.2026

This morning, I woke up to a dead MacBook Pro.

Completely dead.

There was one small piece of good news.

At the end of the two-day DoNotAge® longevity conference, their technology team had reset my password so I could get back into my longevity account. I was in a hurry to get to church that evening and failed to write down the new password.

This morning, when I discovered the laptop was dead, I thought I had another problem waiting for me when I finally got it powered up.

Then I checked my phone.

There was an email from the DoNotAge® technology team offering me a temporary reset password for my account, which contains all the new information from the conference.

One problem solved.

Then I looked at the MacBook.

Nothing.

The power pack I had been relying on appeared to be nearly dead as well. I was six time zones from my comfort zone back home, in unfamiliar territory in London, and suddenly the computer that had been my connection to my writing, my work, my family, and the rest of my journey was gone.

This was a problem.

I went downstairs and met Rafael in the hotel lobby before breakfast. I explained what had happened and how important the computer was to my journey. I told him I wanted to live long and prosper. I also wanted to make it home without getting lost or missing my flight.

Rafael listened.

Then he sent me across the street.

First came breakfast. A scrumptious breakfast, as it turned out.

Then I gathered everything I had: the dead MacBook Pro, the power pack, every wire I had been carrying, and my bulky Insignia travel unit.

I walked into Kingcross Computer Center looking like a man bringing a patient into the emergency room.

The man helping me was from Iran. He examined the equipment and gave me the look a doctor gives you when he suspects there may be trouble.

Only for a moment.

Then he asked to see my MacBook power cord.

I handed him the big one that was still attached to the Insignia.

He looked at it.

Then he pulled off the small piece containing the American plug.

He reached for a UK plug.

He snapped it into place.

Then he plugged it in.

Boom.

The warp engines fired up.

The MacBook came back to life.

The same thing happened with the power pack.

Suddenly, I had power.

I had speed.

I had a lifeline.

Twenty minutes earlier, the system had been completely dead. Now the power level was climbing through 29 percent and continuing upward.

The problem had been the plug configuration.

Sometimes the answer is sitting right in front of you.

Sometimes you need another person to see it.

I took pictures of both men because I don't want to forget them.

Rafael didn't fix my computer. He listened when I explained how critical this was to my journey and pointed me toward someone who could help.

And the man at Kingcross Computer Center solved the mystery for £10.

I'm still six time zones from home.

I still have a flight to catch later this week.

I still have to navigate London.

I still miss my family.

But this morning, something changed.

My computer is alive.

My power pack is charging.

My phone has power.

My password problem has a temporary solution.

And I have warp speed capability for the remainder of my journey.

I came to London to live long and prosper.

This morning, three different acts of help came together: the DoNotAge® technology team, Rafael in the hotel lobby, and a computer technician from Iran across the street.

I don't want to forget any of them.

Sometimes prosperity looks like a successful investment or a great opportunity.

Sometimes it looks like a temporary password arriving on your phone.

Sometimes it looks like a UK plug snapped onto an American power adapter.

And sometimes, when you're far from home, prosperity looks like someone simply saying:

I've got you.

I was reminded this morning that help can arrive through very ordinary people and very ordinary moments.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “Michael, remind me again why you carried every wire you own across London?”

Spock: “Because, Doctor, his survival instincts appear to be improving.”

Bones: “I'll give him that.”

Sometimes the journey gives us a problem we cannot solve from our own perspective. Then someone appears who sees the one thing we missed.

This morning, that one thing was a UK plug.

And somehow, the warp engines are running again.

Stumbling forward, one percent better, one day at a time.

🖖

Caution: 9 out of 10 Supplements Sold Online Aren't Real

Stardate 09.28.2026

I'm waking up this morning six time zones away from the comfort zone I left behind in Iowa.

I'm in London for the first time, and I've been lost at least once every day.

I'm doing all of this for one reason. To become a better version of myself, one percent better every day.

For the past two days, I sat in the same room with people who have devoted their lives to understanding longevity. I took notes, met experts, asked questions, and listened to people who traveled from around the world because they care about learning more about health and aging.

My partner, DoNotAge, brought me here.

These two days gave me a lot to think about.

I learned about research taking place around the world. I heard scientists explain what they are studying and why certain ingredients have attracted their attention. I met people who are willing to share what they are learning so others can benefit.

At age 66, I need all the help I can get.

Especially when I'm thousands of miles from home and finding my way through an unfamiliar city.

The conference ended with a surprise.

DoNotAge gave the partners sitting in the room permission to share news about a product before its worldwide launch next week.

I was given a 28-day supply to take home.

The product is called Performance.

One of the things I learned during the conference caught my attention.

We were shown findings from an independent report about supplements sold online. The finding presented to us was striking: nine out of ten supplements tested did not contain what their labels claimed.

I don't have the name of the report in front of me yet, so I'm going to track down the source before I say more about the study itself.

The question stayed with me.

Where does the ingredient come from?

How is it tested?

Does the amount in the product match the label?

What human research supports its use?

I have friends who have told me they gave up on supplements because they didn't believe they were doing anything.

I've become more interested in the research behind these products and in the companies that provide ingredients to researchers conducting clinical studies.

That's one reason I came to this conference.

Performance is designed to be added to the DoNotAge routine I'm already following.

The product contains three natural ingredients:

7 grams of creatine for strength and physical performance.

4 grams of Nitralis™ for blood flow.

2 grams of NAC to support the body's natural antioxidant systems.

DoNotAge also told us that Performance received Informed Sport certification ahead of its launch. That certification provides testing intended to identify substances prohibited in sport.

A six-month human trial is already underway with Performance.

Researchers are also studying cognitive outcomes and other measures, including telomere length, which is one of the markers researchers use when studying cellular aging.

The research is still underway.

That's important to me.

I'm bringing home 28 days of a new product after spending two days listening to experts talk about longevity science.

Now I get to follow along.

I'll be watching what the researchers learn, paying attention to how I respond, and sharing the lessons along the way.

A disclosure for my readers: DoNotAge provides me with a stipend when readers use my partner link to explore or purchase its products. I share that information because I want you to know how this relationship works. My experiences and observations are my own.

DoNotAge recommends checking with your doctor before adding a new supplement to your routine. I agree. Everyone's circumstances are different.

For now, Performance is available to the people who attended the conference before its worldwide launch next week.

Click here to explore.

If you're new to DoNotAge, come back here. I'll be sharing more of the lessons I brought home from these experts.

"So the Captain has returned from the conference with another experiment," Bones said.

"An accurate observation, Doctor," Spock replied. "He appears particularly interested in the evidence."

"Good. Maybe he'll remember to read the directions before he starts another one."

Spock has a point.

I'm learning to slow down enough to understand what I'm putting into my body.

That may be one of the best things I brought home from London.

Psalm 90:17: "May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands."

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

May you live long and prosper.

Day 1: The Questions That Brought Me Here

Stardate 09.27.2026

London gave me a small lesson in Underground travel yesterday morning.

I left my hotel around 7:50 with my directions saved on my phone in case I lost internet. I thought I was doing everything right. The train was traveling in the correct direction, but Tower Hill wasn't a stop on that particular train.

So I got off and walked.

I still arrived on time.

That was the beginning of Day 1 at the DoNotAge conference.

During the social hour, I began seeing people I had met at last year's conference in New York City. One of the first familiar faces was Karen, a 77-year-old woman who looks decades younger than her age. We sat alongside Ryker, James and Jodie, who is new to DoNotAge. Our table was a good mix of Americans and Europeans.

It felt good to reunite with partners from last year.

Before the conference officially started, I talked with Paul Barradell, the CEO, about something that has been on my mind for some time.

Many of my doctor friends back home have questions about the products I've been taking for years. I understand the questions. These supplements aren't part of the traditional medical school curriculum, so there is naturally skepticism when new products enter the market.

One of my tennis partners is a doctor. He told me he receives NAD injections, which got me thinking more deeply about what I had been learning about NAD and its role in the body.

I discovered DoNotAge while researching my book, Live Long and Prosper. NMN was one of my first discoveries. It is a precursor involved in NAD production.

I came to this conference with questions.

I wanted to hear from experts and learn more about the research behind the products I've been taking.

The experts did not disappoint.

Vera Gorbanova, a pioneer in Sirt-6 research, was one of the first speakers. She opened with a question:

What causes aging?

She explained the role of Sirt-6 as an enzyme and discussed inflammation as a hallmark associated with age-related diseases. She also presented research showing greater Sirt-6 activity in longer-lived species.

Research involving mice was part of her presentation as well. She shared findings in which mice receiving Sirt-6 appeared younger and showed less frailty.

Sirt-6 happens to be one of the first products I added to my own supplement routine.

Her presentation set the tone for the rest of the day. Each speaker brought a different area of research to the room.

Company founder Alan Graves stood up and shared why he started DoNotAge. He became emotional when he told us his mother was sitting in the room with us.

He also shared that the company has now helped more than one million people pursue a healthier life.

Soren, from Denmark, talked about muscle mass reduction as we age. He shared research involving muscle recovery and spermidine, another product that has become part of my longevity routine.

During lunch, Soren stopped by our table and I had the opportunity to talk with him. Nicholás Cherñasly from Brazil joined the conversation. Nicholás shared a presentation about follow-up research he and his wife are doing related to a study that reported a 67 percent increase in longevity in mice.

Johnny and Lindsey gave a joint presentation about the new sachets. Their presentation generated quite a reaction in the room as they shared reports from patients experiencing changes in menopause symptoms. Some patients also reported better sleep and the elimination of dry mouth.

More research is needed.

That sentence stayed with me.

Research takes time. Questions lead to more questions. Conferences like this give researchers an opportunity to share what they are studying and give people like me an opportunity to listen.

I also had the opportunity to share my own work.

I brought signed copies of Live Long and Prosper with me and passed them out during the conference. Somehow, I managed to fit the books into my very small carry-on along with my small backpack.

My wife was surprised that everything I needed for a 12-day adventure through Scotland and London fit into those two bags.

The book that began with my own curiosity about longevity was now sitting in the hands of people working in the field that inspired it.

At the end of the day, I thanked Paul for a great first day and asked him for a picture together.

I came here with questions.

I left Day 1 with even more to learn.

“Let the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.”
Psalm 90:17

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

A note about DoNotAge: DoNotAge is a partner of mine. If a reader chooses to purchase through my partner link, I receive a stipend. The discount code is LLAP, and the partner link can be found by clicking here. I encourage readers to do their own discovery and research.

Captain's Addendum

Spock: “Michael, your first London train experience appears to have provided useful data.”

Bones: “He got on the wrong train, Spock.”

Spock: “And still arrived on time. The data remains useful.”

I came here to learn. Today gave me plenty to think about, and tomorrow brings another full day with people who have devoted their lives to understanding how we age.

I'm grateful to be here.

And I'm grateful I brought the little book that started part of this journey with me.

Ready to Listen, Learn, and Share

Stardate 09.26.2026 

I arrived in London yesterday.

The journey from Edinburgh gave me a chance to see England from the ground level. I watched the countryside pass by the train window, met Claire, and eventually found my way to London.

Once I arrived, I started exploring.

I walked the city, took pictures, figured out the transportation system and put plenty of miles on my shoes. Yesterday brought another 19,000 steps.

Now it is time to slow down and listen.

This morning I will attend the DoNotAge conference with people who have spent years studying longevity and helping move the conversation forward.

I came to London with an open mind.

I want to listen.

I want to learn.

And I want to share what I discover with the people who follow along with me.

There is something special about being in a room filled with people who are curious about how we can live longer, healthier and more purposeful lives.

I don't need to have all the answers.

I just need to pay attention.

Today I get to do exactly that.

Psalm 90:17

"May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands."

I am grateful to be here.

Now it's time to listen, learn and share.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Michael, your objective appears remarkably straightforward."

Bones: "Listen, learn and share. I think even Spock can handle that one."

Spock: "I was merely observing the mission parameters."

Tomorrow, I get to sit in the room and listen.

Sometimes the best way to move forward is to become a student again.

Seeing England From the Ground

Stardate 09.25.2026

This morning I left Edinburgh by train.

I settled into my seat and watched the countryside begin to unfold outside the window. The train carried me south through Scotland and into England, giving me hours to simply watch.

There were plenty of wind turbines scattered across the landscape. I noticed trees with white bark and wondered what species they were. Many of the fields looked as though they had recently been plowed. The landscape kept changing as we moved along.

I found myself enjoying the pace of the journey.

Flying would have gotten me from one place to another much faster. Sitting on the train gave me a chance to see the country at ground level. I could watch the farms, villages, fields and hills pass by one mile at a time.

Even the conversations around me offered little reminders that I was traveling somewhere different. I heard passengers using the word "toilet" for what I would usually call the bathroom. Small observations like that kept me connected to the experience.

Claire was sitting beside me.

We talked during the journey, and she gave me a list of things to do while I am in London. I have one week before I head home, with the DoNotAge conference coming first on Saturday and Sunday. After the conference, I have several days to explore London.

Claire and I also discovered another connection. She takes many of the supplements I take, so our conversation naturally moved toward longevity and the things we are doing to live long and prosper.

Before we parted, I gave her a copy of Live Long and Prosper.

I like those moments when a person enters your day for a few hours and leaves something behind that continues with you after you say goodbye.

Eventually, the train brought me to London.

I found my way to the hotel, checked in and settled into my room.

Then I opened my computer.

Here I am.

I have been writing this daily blog for many years, and today's story feels different. I am sitting in a London hotel room after traveling through England by train, looking back at the countryside I watched from my window and thinking about the conversation I had with Claire.

Tomorrow begins the DoNotAge conference.

After that, London is waiting.

Psalm 121:8

"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."

That verse fits this journey well.

There is still a lot of road ahead, and I am grateful for every mile.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Michael, your mission parameters appear to have expanded considerably."

Bones: "Give the man a week in London and a list from Claire, Spock. You know he's going to try to see everything."

Spock: "I have already calculated the probability."

Sometimes the best parts of a journey arrive without a reservation. A seat beside a stranger can become a conversation. A conversation can become a connection. A book can change hands and continue the journey with someone else.

I am grateful for Claire, for the train ride, and for the opportunity to keep exploring.

One day at a time.

Engage.

19,000 Steps

Stardate 09.24.2026

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Here are some pictures of Edinburgh I shot during my 19,000-step tour of the city yesterday. If you visit me on Substack, I will also share some videos there once I have more free time.

Yesterday I visited the Royal Botanic Garden on the north end of the city. From there, I made my way to St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral. I arrived just after 5 p.m. and discovered they were presenting a choir service at 5:30. I stayed.

Two lessons were presented during the service. The first was an account of St. Columba, a monk who left royalty to disciple men and bring faith to Scotland. The second came from Luke, chapter four, when Jesus was tempted by the Devil after spending 40 days in the wilderness following His baptism.

All I can say about the service is that I felt the presence of God while inside.

The voices were angelic.

After sunset, the temperature cooled into the low 60s, but I was still ready to eat outside. The city was coming to life around me. Beside me, a street magician entertained a crowd on a closed-off street. Walking tour guides moved through the area. Passersby spoke in multiple languages.

I ordered the Independence Day burger, fully loaded with two onion rings and capped with pickles on top. One block away, I found a cafe serving two scoops of ice cream.

After 19,000 steps, both sounded pretty good.

Today I'm planning to visit museums, monuments, and the other St. Mary's Cathedral, which happens to be from my denomination. Salisbury Crags in Holyrood Park is also calling me to climb to the ridge overlooking my hotel. I spotted visitors standing on top of the ridge watching the sunset on my first day in Edinburgh.

I'm thankful the weather has been surprisingly good, with most of the rain coming at night. August is considered the best month to visit Scotland. September has its own appeal. The festival crowds have thinned, and I've had plenty of opportunities to explore on foot.

Tomorrow I'll take a four-hour train ride to London.

The DoNotAge international conference is coming up over the weekend. I'll be learning from some of the world's leading longevity researchers and interacting with people who are curious about how to live long and prosper in their senior years.

I'll be sharing those lessons in future stories.

"May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands." — Psalm 90:17

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, 19,000 steps is a significant amount of exploration for one day.

Bones: And apparently enough exercise to justify a burger with onion rings and two scoops of ice cream.

Spock: Your assessment appears medically unscientific, Doctor.

Bones: I wasn't giving medical advice, Spock. I was talking about the Captain's priorities.

Some days give us a lesson in a cathedral. Some arrive while walking through a garden. Others show up in the middle of a crowded street with a magician performing beside the dinner table.

Yesterday gave me all three.

I'm grateful I had the time and energy to keep walking.

One step led to another, and eventually I found myself sitting inside a cathedral listening to voices that made me stop and simply be present.

Maybe that is enough for today.

One percent better. One day at a time.

Finding My Way Around

 Stardate 09.23.2026

I’m finding my way around a new country.

That sounds simple, but there is something exciting about it. Every day brings a small discovery.

The people I’ve met so far have been friendly. The customs are different from what I’m used to in the United States. One example caught my attention right away: tipping isn’t expected at eateries the way it is back home. The restaurants also don't charge a surcharge to use a bank card.

Public transportation is another difference. It is readily available, and I’m learning how to use it.

When I arrived at Edinburgh International Airport, I took the A bus into downtown Edinburgh. The A route begins at the terminal and ends in the downtown area. No rental car. No navigating unfamiliar roads. I simply found the bus, climbed aboard and watched the city come into view.

I am thankful I'm not navigating in a rental car. They drive on the opposite side of the road, and the driver sits on what would be the passenger side in the United States. There are roundabouts, which would further complicate things should I return and decide to get a rental car.

Today, I’m going to use the bus system again and explore a little more.

Yesterday, the weather reached 70 degrees, so I decided to have my first meal two blocks from my hotel. I ate outside and ordered fish and chips. The meal included a salad.

My friend and accountability partner, Joni, was recently in Scotland and told me how impressed she was with the farm-to-table practices here. I thought about that as I ate my salad. It was delightful.

The fish was crispy on the outside.

The fries were superior.

That was my first real meal in Scotland, and it gave me another small taste of what makes this place different.

Even my hotel has given me something to think about. The layout is small and simple. There isn't a lot of wasted space. Everything seems designed to serve a purpose.

There is an efficiency to it that I appreciate.

Maybe today's story is really a glimpse into Europe through the eyes of someone who is curious and willing to learn.

I'm still finding my way.

At the same time, technology makes the distance from home feel a little smaller. I'm using WhatsApp to stay connected with my family, sharing pieces of the adventure as I go.

I'm thousands of miles from home, learning new customs, figuring out transportation and seeing a new part of the world.

Psalm 90:17 comes to mind: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.”

I don't know what today's bus ride will bring. That's part of the fun.

I'm learning.

I'm exploring.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to be here.

Join me here: https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Captain, your exploration appears to have begun with public transportation and fish and chips.”

Bones: “And somehow he has already developed an opinion about the fries.”

Michael: Fair assessment. I'm discovering that exploration doesn't require a grand plan. Sometimes it starts with getting on a bus, finding a place to eat and paying attention to what is happening around me.

Maybe that's today's lesson.

Keep looking. Keep learning. Keep moving forward.

One percent better, one day at a time.

Scotland, Mission One

Stardate 09.22.2026

Yesterday began with my checklist finally complete.

My wife dropped me off at the Cedar Rapids airport, and the next mission was officially underway.

The flight to Minneapolis was quick. I landed at Gate A with a short connection to Gate G. The airport tram was down, so I walked.

I made it to the gate just as boarding was completing.

Atlanta brought another short connection. Everything worked out, and soon I was settled in for the red-eye flight to Edinburgh. I did my best to sleep along the way.

When I landed in Edinburgh, I found a sign inviting travelers to use a QR code for the bus into the city.

£8.50 for a round-trip ticket.

That sounded like a good deal.

The bus ride gave me my first overview of Edinburgh. I had my phone ready, and I took plenty of photos along the way.

When the bus reached the end of the line, I started walking.

My phone guided me toward the hotel, and I got my first real look at the city on foot.

The hotels here are smaller than what I'm used to in the United States, but the space is being used efficiently. I got checked in, settled my things, and received a visitor guide with maps of the city.

Looking at those maps, I can already see plenty of opportunities to walk during my three days in Edinburgh.

That's something I'm looking forward to.

After a long day of planes, airports, connections, a red-eye flight, a bus ride and a walk through a new city, I made it.

And I made it just in time.

I was checked in before my 8:08 deadline.

The first mission is complete.

Now I get to explore Scotland.

One percent better. One day at a time.

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your checklist was completed with sufficient precision.

Bones: He also crossed an ocean, Spock. I'd say that's worth mentioning.

Spock: Agreed, Doctor. The exploration phase has now begun.

Yesterday reminded me how much can happen when you simply keep moving toward the next step.

My wife got me to the airport. The planes got me across the ocean. The bus gave me my first look at Edinburgh. My phone helped me find the hotel.

Now my feet get to do some exploring.

Engage.

The Next Mission

Stardate 09.21.2026

Yesterday began with a special visit to our house of worship.

Our bishop came to bless our new entrance.

During his homily, he talked about the importance of people coming together to accomplish something for the good of the community. He shared a story from a small church where he once served. The church needed a new roof. The congregation came together, each person bringing different gifts and strengths to the project. Together, they built the roof.

I thought about our own congregation.

For years, parishioners had struggled with the steep stairs leading into our church. There were injuries. Fundraising was put on hold. There were plenty of obstacles.

The congregation kept working toward a solution.

Yesterday, we stood together as our bishop blessed the new entrance. It is more welcoming, and it gives parishioners an easier way to enter our church.

It was a good reminder of what can happen when people bring their gifts to the same table.

After the service, we dedicated the rest of the day to family time.

The Chargers came up short, while the San Diego Padres came through and brought their magic number to two for the final wild-card spot. I also completed my checklist for the trip.

That brought me to this morning.

The next mission is ready.

This afternoon, I leave for Scotland and London.

Soon I will be meeting with my DoNotAge partners from around the world for our second international conference. Before the conference begins, I will have some time to explore Scotland. Then I'll take a roughly four-hour train ride into London.

After the conference, I will have some personal time to explore the London area before heading home.

I'll also be listening and learning.

Some of the doctors and researchers I will meet are working to understand how we can increase the number of years we live with good health and wellness. Longevity has become an important part of my own journey, and I'm looking forward to learning from people who have dedicated their lives to the subject.

I'm bringing my MacBook Pro along so I can continue my daily blog while I'm away. That means the stories will continue as the mission unfolds.

Yesterday, our bishop talked about a small church building a roof together.

Our congregation built a new entrance together.

Today, I'm heading across the ocean to learn from people around the world.

There is a lot ahead.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.”
— Ecclesiastes 4:9

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your checklist is complete. Your next mission has been authorized.

Bones: Scotland and London, Spock. He's going to learn about longevity, too.

Spock: Precisely, Doctor. I suspect the Captain will find a few lessons worth bringing home.

Yesterday reminded me that every person has something to contribute. Sometimes it takes a roof. Sometimes it takes a new entrance. Sometimes it takes boarding an airplane and crossing an ocean.

I'm grateful for the people who helped make yesterday possible.

And I'm grateful for the people who will become part of the next story.

One percent better. One day at a time.

Engage.

 

Family Day Today

Stardate 09.20.2026

I spent yesterday with my wife chipping away at the massive to-do list after returning home from cardio tennis. We accomplished quite a bit.

Today is family day.

After worship, we will gather at our son's home to cheer for our favorite sports teams. There is some extra excitement surrounding the San Diego Padres right now.

While I was sleeping, the Padres found a way to beat the Miami Marlins in extra innings. Ethan Salas delivered the walk-off RBI single in the 10th inning, giving San Diego a 7-6 victory. The win was their 12th in the last 13 games and brought their playoff-clinching magic number down to three.

The turnaround near the end of the season has our family excited. The Padres are right in the middle of the National League wild-card race, and every game carries plenty of meaning now.

Today we will cheer for them together.

Our other favorite team, the Chargers, will be playing at the same time. That should make for an interesting afternoon at our son's home.

This is one of my favorite ways to spend family time. We gather together, watch our teams, celebrate the good plays, endure the difficult ones, and enjoy each other's company.

There is something special about having a shared interest that brings everyone into the same room.

Today begins with worship. Then comes family, football and baseball.

I'm grateful for all of it.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

— Psalm 118:24

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, the probability of simultaneous sporting events producing emotional volatility appears quite high.

Bones: Spock, he's watching with family. Let the man enjoy the afternoon.

Spock: A logical observation, Bones.

Bones: I have those occasionally.

I'll take their advice today. There will be plenty of time for travel tomorrow. Today is for worship, family, and a couple of teams worth cheering for.

One day at a time.

Engage.

Captain's Note: "Our calling is not to write perfect words, but to reveal perfect grace through imperfect moments—one percent better, one day at a time."

Cardio Tennis Today

Stardate 09.19.2026

I’m moving fast this morning.

After a great night of sleep, I’m rushing to get ready for cardio tennis at 8am. I’ve been away from home for a long time, and I need a good workout before I get back on the road.

Europe is only a couple of days away.

There is still plenty to do before I leave. This morning, I’m focused on getting my body moving and enjoying some time on the tennis court.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Michael, your schedule appears to have accelerated.”

Bones: “Let him play tennis, Spock. He’s earned the workout.”

Spock: “Agreed. Physical preparation appears logical before another journey.”

A good night of sleep, a little cardio tennis, and a few quiet minutes with God. That’s enough for this morning.

Now I need to get moving.

Engage.

Lucy is Legal

Stardate 09.18.2026

Lucy has been parked in my driveway since her adoption a couple of months ago. I was fortunate to work with a concierge from my day job to locate her outside of Chicago. Once I drove her home, I discovered my insurance company considered her a commercial vehicle.

While it's true this type of van has commercial applications, the Ram ProMaster is also one of the popular choices for people like me who want to build a van for travel adventures. That's where the insurance challenge popped up.

Yesterday, I visited a local insurance agent who uncovered a creative solution. She researched multiple companies for me and found a way to insure Lucy without breaking the bank. My agent classified her as a recreational vehicle.

Lucy is now fully street legal.

I set aside time to get the paperwork handled for Lucy's title and registration while taking care of the insurance issues. Once the anti-theft device for the plates arrives from Amazon today, I will be able to install Lucy's new Iowa plates.

Thanks to our daughter, Lucy will have personalized plates in about six weeks. I'm looking forward to seeing those plates on the van.

The real work on the van conversion begins once my travel assignments are complete. I'm building modules for the plumbing, electrical system, galley, and shower using extruded aluminum.

For once in my life, I believe I can actually finish a major project on time.

There are 3 years, 9 months, and 17 days remaining until the Mission Clock runs out and full-time travel begins.

May you live long and prosper.

My Hero, Nile Kron, Now Resides in Heaven

Stardate 09.17.2026

One of the greatest ambassadors for University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, Nile Kron, is now with the Lord.

The last time I saw Nile, he was visiting my store with his grandparents. I asked Nile if he could do me a huge favor and deliver some coloring books to his friends at the hospital.

Imagine this amazing kid captain showing up and passing out coloring books to his buddies, all patients doing their best to deal with challenging circumstances.

Nile asked his grandmother to take a picture of the two of us together while he held up a copy of Where in the World is Wilson? I don't have that picture. It was taken with his grandmother's phone. I will forever cherish the memory of that moment.

I do have another picture of Nile. It was taken while he was volunteering at our table during one of our Children's Miracle Network fundraisers. That picture captures something I remember about Nile. He loved being involved. He loved helping. He loved being around his friends at the children's hospital.

For those who don't know Nile, this story is dedicated to him.

I wrote about him before because he was one of my greatest heroes. Nile was a kid captain for our local children's hospital. He often visited our store during Children's Miracle Network fundraising campaigns. I loved his energy and his enthusiasm.

Life threw curveballs at Nile. He never flinched.

Nile flashed a permanent smile to everyone he encountered. He looked forward to seeing all of his friends whenever he had an appointment scheduled for treatment.

There is a void in the universe.

My heart goes out to Nile's family. Thank you, Nile, for inspiring me.

You will be missed.

May your soul rest in peace.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life... will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:38-39

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Michael, the Captain has encountered another hero who left an enduring mark."

Bones: "Yeah, Spock. Some people manage to make a difference in a very short time."

Spock: "Nile's mission continues through the people he inspired."

Nile reminded me that a person's impact can be found in the simple things they do for others. He showed up. He helped. He brought his energy into the room. He cared about his friends.

I am grateful that our paths crossed.

Captain's Note:
"Our calling is not to write perfect words, but to reveal perfect grace through imperfect moments—one percent better, one day at a time."

Launch Sequence Engaged

Stardate 09.16.2026

My final morning on assignment has arrived.

Prayers and meditation are complete. I slept well last night, and that feels like a good way to begin my final day here.

Once Golden Hour is complete, I will pack up and get ready to head home.

Yesterday turned into an unexpected deployment.

An emergency request came in from the next opening, and I was sent to their temporary office for the day to help. I reunited with colleagues and friends I have worked with on opening teams in several states.

We were swamped.

It was one of those days when there was always another person to help, another question to answer, or another task waiting. I enjoyed being able to jump in and help a team that needed extra hands.

By the end of the day, I was back where I started, preparing for my final morning here.

The opening team is getting ready for its launch. I won't be here when the doors open because I will be traveling on a personal mission. I will miss being part of opening day, and I'm grateful I had the opportunity to help prepare the team.

Launch sequence engaged.

Those words seem appropriate for my own journey right now, too.

Next week I will be heading to Europe to join my DoNotAge partners. Longevity has become a passion of mine, and I want to keep learning.

I want to be 1% better with longevity.

That means learning from people who are further along in the field. Asking questions. Listening to conversations. Paying attention to the lessons that might help me live a longer, healthier life.

I will also be sharing some of what I learn with my followers and conducting interviews along the way.

I don't know yet what every conversation will teach me.

That's part of why I'm going.

“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!”
— Psalm 90:17

There is still work to do this morning.

Then I get to pack up and point myself toward home.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: “Michael, the next mission appears to involve considerable travel and additional learning.”

Bones: “He's going to Europe, Spock. Let the man enjoy the adventure.”

Spock: “I believe that is precisely what I am suggesting, Doctor.”

I have learned that some missions reveal themselves one step at a time.

Today, I finish this one.

Next week, another launch sequence begins.

The Man I Met in the Hot Tent

Stardate 09.15.2026

Yesterday, Mat and I were working together in an outside tent. It was uncomfortably hot.

I told him this is how I like to operate. I like being in a position where I'm uncomfortable because that's where I learn and grow.

Mat agreed.

He told me that's where he learns his best lessons, too.

That opened the door to a conversation I didn't expect.

Mat and I are both support staff on this assignment. We're helping build a new team. As we talked, I began learning about the journey that brought him here.

Earlier in his career, Mat received intense training involving high-end products in the $30,000 range. The training was brutal. Scripts had to be memorized word for word. Firings were common. Turnover was normal.

Mat rose to the top.

That experience gave him a foundation to build upon.

Then he discovered his passion.

Health and wellness.

Mat told me his own health had been poor. He was overweight. His journey began by getting off the couch.

Those first steps were the hardest.

He stayed with it.

He joined a gym. He learned discipline. He learned how to create patterns around his workouts. Those patterns became part of his life.

He also learned something I understand well.

The comfort zone can become a difficult place to grow from.

Eventually, Mat found a way to share what he had learned with other people. He built a tribe.

People pay a monthly fee to access his programs, and Mat provides personal coaching. He works his coaching hours around his day job so there is no interference.

He is building something because he found his passion.

Family became an important part of that journey, too.

Mat's family homeschools, which gives them the ability to travel together when his work takes him on the road. I admire the creativity he has found in turning those opportunities into family adventures.

Then came a decision that told me a lot about Mat.

His boss told him there would be a forced relocation to the home office in another state.

The job was lucrative.

Mat walked away.

His boss was shocked that he would leave such a good opportunity.

Mat had discovered something more important.

His family mattered more than a job.

I really liked that about him.

My family and I are also finding ways to travel together when my work assignments take me away from home. Hearing how Mat has built that into his life gave us another point of connection.

We also talked about health and wellness. Mat is interested in what I'm doing with DoNotAge, and I shared some of my own journey with him.

We approach healthy living in very similar ways.

We are both willing to experiment. We are both willing to learn. We are both willing to get uncomfortable and see what we can discover on the other side.

Mat is now helping people get fit by sharing what he has learned from his own journey. He has created a community around that passion while continuing to work his day job.

I admire that.

I also admire his willingness to pursue excellence.

I like surrounding myself with talented people. I believe strong teams become stronger when people bring their individual strengths to the mission.

Mat feels like an ideal teammate.

We are both support people on this assignment. We are helping build the new team together.

He mentioned that he would like to be involved in future training missions. I believe we will work together again.

I gave Mat access to my blog so we can stay connected. He gave me permission to share his journey here, and I have a picture of him to go with the story.

I like the way some connections happen.

We were standing in a hot tent doing our jobs. A conversation about discomfort turned into a conversation about growth. Growth led to health. Health led to family. Family led to passion. Passion led to helping other people.

And somewhere in that conversation, two support people discovered they have a lot to learn from each other.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor." — Ecclesiastes 4:9

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your decision to have a meaningful conversation in extreme heat appears to have produced useful intelligence.

Bones: Useful intelligence? You found yourself another guy who enjoys making life uncomfortable.

Spock: An observation with considerable merit, Doctor.

I suppose there is something to that.

I keep learning that the people who cross my path during these assignments can teach me something if I take the time to listen.

Mat reminded me that growth often begins with a difficult first step.

He got off the couch.

I keep taking my own steps.

Today, I'm grateful our paths crossed in that hot tent.

Road Lessons

 Stardate 09.14.2026

One of the leaders at our new location introduced a simple idea to the team. Each day, teammates were asked to share their roses and thorns.

The roses were the highs. The thorns were the lows.

I like that idea.

I've been accumulating roses and thorns during these travels.

My biggest thorn has been being away from my family. I miss home. I miss my familiar surroundings. I'm looking forward to being reunited with my wife and family.

There have been plenty of roses along the way.

One of the biggest has been watching the new team take shape.

There is something exciting about watching a new teammate solve a puzzle. The puzzle is figuring out what they can become.

I've seen people gain confidence. I've watched new skills emerge. I've seen teammates discover that they can handle something they hadn't encountered before.

Those moments bring me joy.

They also make me think about my own puzzle.

These travels have given me opportunities to see the world from a different perspective. I've met people I wouldn't have met at home. I've discovered places I might never have visited. I've found restaurants, churches and communities that I want to remember.

I'm already thinking about bringing my family back to some of these places.

That is one of the unexpected joys of traveling. A place that begins as a discovery for me can become a future family adventure.

I've also been thinking about Lucy.

She has been parked since I adopted her.

While I've been living out of hotel rooms, I've been collecting ideas for what she could become. I can see the joy in building her out and turning her into our vacation home on wheels.

Maybe some of the places I've discovered during these travels will eventually become destinations for Lucy and my family.

That thought makes me smile.

I've been on the road a long time. I'm down to my final two nights in this hotel room, and I can feel this chapter winding down.

I'm ready to go home.

I'm also ready for what's next.

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Ephesians 2:10

There is still work to do. There are still people to encourage. There are still places to discover.

And there is a van sitting at home waiting to become something new.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

"Michael, you've accumulated quite a collection of roses and thorns," Spock observed.

Bones smiled. "I'd say he's also accumulated a pretty good list of places to take his family."

I think Bones may have a point.

I've spent these travels helping a new team discover what they can become. Along the way, I've been discovering a little more about myself, too.

Soon I'll be home.

Then Lucy gets her turn.

Learning to Forgive

Stardate 09.13.2026

Yesterday, forgiveness showed up early in my day.

One of the managers who opened early for us told me she had finished reading God's Black Sheep Squadron. She had recently received a copy, and it meant something to me that she had taken the time to read it.

A little later, just after sunrise, I was at the Farmer's Market when I looked up and saw a rainbow. I captured a picture of it in the early morning light.

Two small moments stayed with me as the day continued.

I had started early so we could have a presence at the Farmer's Market. That schedule also gave me the opportunity to attend late-afternoon worship at a church I had never attended before.

The message centered around forgiveness.

One of the followers asked Jesus how many times he needed to forgive someone who had wronged him.

Jesus answered, “Seventy times seven.”

The pastor then told the story of a servant who owed a tremendous debt. The servant pleaded for mercy. The master had compassion on him and forgave the debt.

The servant walked away from that experience and encountered someone who owed him a much smaller amount. He demanded payment and refused to show the same mercy he had just received.

That story stayed with me.

I am doing my best to get 1% better at letting go of grudges and forgiving people. I know this is an area where I need to keep growing.

That is one reason I need to be worshipping every week.

I need the Master to help me with my human weaknesses.

The lesson followed me into the night.

I was able to dream about forgiveness while I slept, and I woke up with another great sleep report. The lesson from worship had continued to work its way deeper into me while I rested.

Ephesians 4:32 gives me something to carry forward:

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Forgiveness is something I need to practice.

Seventy times seven.

I have plenty of opportunities to keep learning.

And plenty of opportunities to become 1% better.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: “Michael, the evidence suggests forgiveness remains a work in progress.”

Bones: “He's human, Spock. Give him a little room to practice.”

I think the Master understands that I am still learning.

One day at a time. One percent better.

I Went Back for the Rest of the Story

Stardate 09.12.2026

I went back to Ancho & Agave last night.

I had reviewed the restaurant yesterday, but I felt like I needed to get the rest of the story. My time on assignment is running short, and sometimes you know when there is a little more waiting to be discovered.

Last night, the street tacos gave me the perfect way to explore the menu.

I ordered four tacos. Two were street tacos and two were avenue tacos.

The street tacos were cauliflower and sweet potato. The avenue tacos were steak asada and blackened salmon.

I had my own little taco competition going.

The cauliflower street taco took first place. The sweet potato street taco came in second. The steak asada followed in third, with the blackened salmon finishing fourth.

I paired the tacos with a strawberry/pineapple margarita.

Then Russ surprised me.

He brought out Tres Leches Cake and told me it was on the house as a thank you for the story I published yesterday morning, "He Had Me at Hello."

That caught me off guard.

A story I had written yesterday morning had somehow traveled across the day and found its way back to me at dinner.

Special K, whose name is Kanisha, is one of the managers. She introduced herself early in my visit, and I enjoyed getting to know her a little better.

Then there was Cristen.

Cristen was serving me last night, and somewhere along the way our conversation turned toward writing.

She has ideas for publishing a collection of her poems. She also has several stories that have been simmering in her mind for a long time.

She is a student, too, and she has plenty on her plate right now.

I told her not to give up.

There will always be obstacles between an idea and the finished work. I know something about that. I have been writing every day for years, and I still find myself learning along the way.

Sometimes a person simply needs someone to say, "Keep going."

Maybe that was part of the reason I came back last night.

I thought I was returning to finish a restaurant story.

Instead, I found another writer who is still carrying stories of her own.

That feels worth remembering.

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." — Proverbs 16:3

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

"Michael, you seem to have returned for tacos and discovered another writer," Spock observed.

"That's how these things happen, Spock," Bones replied. "You never know what you're going to find when the Captain gets hungry."

Maybe Bones has a point.

Last night reminded me that stories have a way of finding us. Sometimes they arrive on a plate. Sometimes they come with dessert. Sometimes they are sitting across the table carrying a dream that has not been finished yet.

I'm grateful I went back.

And I'm grateful for Cristen, who reminded me that some stories are worth carrying until the right time comes to tell them.

One percent better. One day at a time.

He Had Me at Hello

Stardate 09.11.2026

He had me at hello.

I walked in solo. Most times I get “that look.” I almost feel out of place requesting a table for one. When the place is busy, the first question is usually, “Would you like to sit at the bar?”

Maybe they're thinking, That's the place where losers who don't have dates go.

Not Ancho & Agave.

Russ came out and greeted me like I was his only customer. He told me someone would be there right away to seat me.

Moments later, Kristin walked up.

She also had me at hello.

Kristin greets you like your pet who hasn't seen you all day when you walk in. You immediately feel love in the air.

She offered me three choices: the bar, a high top or a low top.

Her next question set the tone.

“Have you been here before?”

“Nope. I'm not from around here.”

Kristin asked, “Why are you here?”

She got it out of me.

Kristin couldn't wait to share this information with Russ.

After my order was placed, Russ came back and asked if he could sit at my table. Russ had questions.

This managing partner takes his work seriously.

I didn't really answer his questions because I'm off the clock. I simply listened to Russ tell me about why he shops with another choice.

Kristin came back to the table and chimed in about why she loves shopping with us.

I let her testimonial answer Russ's questions.

Up until this point, Russ had no idea about my writing.

I knew at first bite this meal was going to turn into a blog review.

This is where things get interesting.

Russ came back after I requested him to join me again. I wanted to learn more about Ancho & Agave.

This place is a scratch kitchen. The only items not made here are the tortillas.

Russ always lets the customer choose the first time they dine in. On the second visit, he surprises them with all of his specialties.

You will have to visit on your own at least twice to find out what those surprises are.

Or you can come back to this blog after I return for at least one more meal before I leave town.

I ordered the beef burrito, chimichanga style.

Kristin told me they serve the white cheese on the bottom of the plate so the burrito remains crunchy, just like the homemade chips that are out of this world.

The salsa too.

Russ says he only serves the finest ingredients.

It shows in the meal.

Ancho & Agave found a way to add an American twist to Mexican food that will make your taste buds scream, “Olé.”

This place is where the magic happens.

If you want authentic Mexican food, talk with my cousin, Mark Mulligan. He literally writes songs about Mexican food places south of the border.

If you want something closer to home and you're in the Kansas City area, visit Ancho & Agave.

Five stars for Russ, Kristin and Ancho & Agave.

By the way, Russ suggested I get into video interviews.

That appears to be the direction I'm heading.

For those of you who are interested in my “vlogs,” make sure you visit me on Substack, a place where people like me congregate.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

In a way, we are a collection of writers who gather at the cyber cantina.

Thank you, Russ and Kristin, for welcoming a stranger.

Live long and prosper.

Scripture

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

— Hebrews 13:2

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your dinner appears to have included an unexpected interview.

Bones: And apparently you're going back for another one. I think we've found your excuse for a second burrito.

Michael: Maybe Russ knows something you two don't.

There are moments when you walk through a door alone and walk out knowing you'll be welcomed back.

I'm grateful for those moments.

One table. Two new friends. One meal that became a story.

And maybe, somewhere along the way, the next chapter is beginning to write itself.