A Front-Row Seat to a Community Dream

Stardate 11.07.2026

Some days give us an opportunity to step back and appreciate what a group of people can accomplish when they share a common goal.

Today is one of those days.

I'm in San Diego, joining fellow members of our pickleball board for the national pickleball championships. Our group will arrive early for a tour of the venue before settling into box seats overlooking the championship court. We're attending as VIP guests, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the competition alongside the people who have helped make our community project possible.

Getting here provided a little adventure of its own.

Just before boarding my flight, I received word that the rental car company had run out of vehicles and canceled my reservation. I stayed calm, called back, and secured another reservation. Before leaving Milwaukee, I had enrolled in Budget Fastbreak. That preparation made all the difference. I bypassed the long lines, went directly to the fast-track counter, and was soon on my way.

I headed to La Jolla and spent a couple of hours walking along the beach before checking into my hotel. Later, I found a Pizza Nova overlooking the water in Point Loma. It was a relaxing way to begin my San Diego visit.

Today's gathering has a much bigger purpose.

Our Williamsburg organization has been working for more than two years to bring four outdoor pickleball courts to our community. The project has required considerable volunteer effort, and the women serving on our board have carried much of the responsibility.

My professional assignments have kept me traveling across the Midwest for nearly six months. During that time, these ladies continued doing the work. They organized, built relationships, coordinated the effort, and kept the project moving.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place while I was away. I've since received photographs showing the women wearing hard hats and holding shovels as construction officially began.

Those photographs mean a great deal to me.

Our fundraising campaign has now surpassed its $200,000 goal. Pickleball USA made that possible through a $25,000 grant awarded to our organization. This afternoon, we'll participate in a special check presentation recognizing that contribution.

Yesterday, we also received photographs showing the perimeter fence being installed around our future courts. It's exciting to see the project taking shape.

I'm hoping to interview our board leaders and representatives from our new national sponsor during today's event. Their stories deserve to be preserved. My primary responsibility on this assignment is to document the journey, capture the important moments, and help tell the story of the people who brought this dream to life.

When I return home, I'll begin working on Field of Pickleball Dreams, a tribute to the women on our leadership team and all the local businesses and community partners who came together to bring free pickleball opportunities to our community.

The front cover will feature the women who helped make this possible, wearing their hard hats and holding their shovels at the groundbreaking. Giant Iowa corn stalks will frame the photograph.

They deserve that spotlight. They are my heroes.

I've always enjoyed being part of teams that accomplish something meaningful. Today's national championships give me an opportunity to spend time with people who share that same commitment. I'll be listening, asking questions, taking photographs, and enjoying the experience.

Sometimes the most meaningful contribution we can make is to recognize the people around us and preserve the good things they have accomplished.

I'm grateful to have a front-row seat today.

Scripture

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor."

— Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV)

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Spock, I suppose our Captain has found another team to keep him busy."

Spock: "Indeed, Doctor. His assignment appears to involve documenting the accomplishments of others. A logical application of his talents."

Bones: "Well, I hope he remembers to enjoy the pickleball tournament, too."

I've learned that every worthwhile journey involves people who contribute in ways that may never appear in the headlines. I'm grateful for the ladies who carried this project forward while I was away. I look forward to helping tell their story.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong 

Wheels Up

 Stardate 11.06.2026

This morning, I'm on a plane headed to San Diego. The preparations are complete, my bags are packed, and I'm looking forward to reconnecting with my pickleball board.

The past several months have involved considerable travel. Nearly six months on the road have influenced my daily habits. Preparation has become part of my routine, and yesterday I had everything in place for this three-day adventure. I went to bed knowing my responsibilities were taken care of.

My time in San Diego will include an opportunity to reconnect with fellow board members and continue our work growing the sport of pickleball. Our organization recently received a $25,000 grant from a national sponsor to help bring four outdoor pickleball courts to Williamsburg, Iowa. 

These projects create opportunities for people to come together. I enjoy being part of a team that helps communities discover the benefits of this sport.

Tomorrow, we'll have the opportunity to watch professional players compete in a national tournament. We've been invited as guests, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the competition and spending time with people who share our enthusiasm for pickleball.

On Monday morning, I'll be back in Franklin, Wisconsin, rejoining the team I've been helping develop during our latest store opening.

My role is to develop new talent. I share my experience, help people become comfortable in their responsibilities, and prepare them to lead. Once they're established, we get out of the way. The team carries the mission forward.

I've always enjoyed developing people and watching them grow into their responsibilities. That philosophy carries into my volunteer work and the relationships I build through pickleball.

There is something rewarding about knowing that people are prepared to continue the work. I'll return to Franklin with another opportunity to contribute to the team and welcome new members into the community.

Scripture reminds us in Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV):

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor."

I appreciate the people who share these journeys with me. Every new assignment brings opportunities to learn, contribute, and encourage someone along the way.

The wheels are up. San Diego awaits.

I'm grateful for another opportunity to enjoy the journey and see where God leads.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "I hope you've packed enough energy for all this traveling, Michael."

Spock: "His preparation suggests a highly logical approach to the mission, Doctor."

Bones: "Well, let's hope he remembers to enjoy himself."

I smiled at that exchange. There will always be another team to develop and another opportunity to serve. Today, I'm thankful for the people who make the journey worthwhile.

One percent better, one day at a time.

Live long and prosper!

A Thousand New Members

 Stardate 11.05.2026

Yesterday was a steady day on assignment. There was work to do, people to help, and another opportunity to contribute to the preparations for an upcoming store opening during Thanksgiving week.

One milestone caught my attention.

We reached 1,000 new members.

That's a significant accomplishment for the team. Each day brings another group of people through the doors, and the membership team continues working to help them get started. There are many people contributing to this effort, and I'm grateful to have a role in the process.

Excitement is building as Thanksgiving week approaches. There is plenty happening behind the scenes, and I'm enjoying the opportunity to learn from another group of people. Every assignment introduces me to new personalities, different approaches, and opportunities to share some of the experience I've accumulated over the years.

My own adjustment continues, too.

I'm happy with my hotel room and have a comfortable bed. My sleep has been somewhat inconsistent as my body adjusts to another environment. I've learned that these transitions can take a little time. I'm giving myself permission to settle into a new routine.

There is much learning going on right now, and I'm okay with the process.

Tomorrow I depart for San Diego. I'm looking forward to spending time with the pickleball community and reconnecting with people who share my enthusiasm for the game. It's another opportunity to enjoy something I love while supporting a community that means a great deal to me.

A Little Perspective

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) offers some encouragement:

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."

I find comfort in those words. Every assignment brings new opportunities to serve, learn, and encourage someone along the way. I pray that God continues to guide the work ahead.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Captain, reaching 1,000 new members is a noteworthy development. The team appears to be making logical progress.

Bones: And I hope you'll give that comfortable hotel bed a little credit. Your body could use some cooperation before San Diego!

Spock: Doctor, I believe a little patience would be the most appropriate prescription.

I suppose both gentlemen have a point. There's plenty to appreciate in this season of life. Yesterday brought a thousand new members, today brings another opportunity to learn, and tomorrow offers a new adventure.

I'll take that journey one day at a time.

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."

Financial Discipline Creates Freedom

 Stardate 11.04.2026

There are days when a few thoughtful decisions create opportunities that extend well into the future. Yesterday was one of those days.

My current work assignment has given me an opportunity to adjust my schedule for the remainder of the week. Originally, I requested vacation days for Friday and Saturday to accommodate a trip to San Diego. Sunday was already a scheduled day off.

After reviewing the schedule, I found a way to give back my vacation days for Wednesday and Thursday while keeping my original plans for San Diego. The leadership team at my temporary location is happy to have me available for two additional shifts. I'm happy because I can make the trip using only one vacation day.

Everybody wins.

This small adjustment got me thinking about something that has become increasingly important in our lives: financial discipline and the freedom it creates.

When my wife and I first moved to Iowa from Southern California, she checked out a book by Dave Ramsey from the library. We began following the Baby Steps outlined in his program. His approach gave us a framework for managing money and developing better financial habits.

We followed his recommendations during those early stages. Over time, we became comfortable with our financial discipline and eventually decided to introduce credit cards back into our lives.

This is where my approach differs from Dave's.

He strongly recommends avoiding credit cards. I understand his reasoning and respect his philosophy. I've chosen to use credit cards with a very specific rule. I pretend my credit card is a debit card.

The money must already be available. I pay the statement balance in full and never consider the available credit an extension of my income.

I also made a promise to my wife. If I ever incur interest because I overlook a payment due date, we will cut up our credit cards.

I understand the risk involved. Returning to credit card use took us outside our comfort zone. We believed we had developed the discipline necessary to manage that responsibility, and we've established a clear boundary to protect ourselves.

The rewards have opened some wonderful travel opportunities.

My Citi rewards balance has now grown to more than $1,000. That is enough to cover all expenses associated with our planned February vacation in Florida.

My plan is to request one week of unpaid Winter leave so we can enjoy two weeks in Florida. The accumulated rewards will fund the trip, keeping our vacation plans aligned with our commitment to living within our means.

There is another benefit developing during my current assignment. I'm staying at a Hilton property for 30 days and accumulating hotel reward points along the way. These points will come in handy when we're on the road with Luuucy, our vacation home on wheels, and we want to check into a hotel for a change of pace.

Looking further ahead, Stardate 05.21.2027 marks my fifteenth anniversary at my day job. That milestone brings an additional week of vacation every year. Having that extra time available will create even more opportunities for future travel.

I've had several conversations with people recently about financial discipline and the lifestyle it can help create. I've shared some of our philosophy without discussing private financial details.

Dave Ramsey has a familiar message about living like no one else today so you can live like no one else tomorrow. That message has stayed with me.

Our journey began with a library book and a willingness to follow a plan. The habits we developed continue to influence our decisions today.

Financial discipline also influences how I manage my book-writing business. I've established a budget of just $12 per month, which funds my annual Canva subscription. That subscription gives me access to the design tools and artwork I use to enhance my books.

I also have a little help along the way. Alberta assists me with Canva prompts that help elevate the quality of the artwork. My partner stipends and affiliate link income cover the Canva expense, allowing me to operate my book business at a net-zero budget.

It's another example of what thoughtful planning can accomplish. I can continue creating books, improving their presentation, and donating the proceeds from book sales to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital while keeping the operating expense covered.

There is another part of Dave Ramsey's philosophy that deserves recognition. His message extends beyond financial independence to the opportunity to give like no one else. That part resonates deeply with me.

My wife and I have always wanted our financial decisions to leave room for generosity. My book-writing journey is one expression of that commitment. Proceeds from my book sales are donated to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. Every book that finds a reader creates another opportunity to support children and their families.

This is where financial discipline takes on an even greater purpose. The freedom we create can reach beyond our own household and become a blessing in someone else's life.

I am grateful for the choices we've made and the opportunities still ahead. There is something satisfying about knowing that yesterday's discipline can help make tomorrow's adventures possible.

Financial Discipline Creates Freedom.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Scripture – Luke 14:28 (NIV)

"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?"

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Doctor, the Captain appears to have discovered a way to turn vacation planning into a financial strategy."

Bones: "Wonderful. Maybe he can teach Starfleet how to travel without spending the entire ship's budget."

Spock: "An interesting application of logic, Doctor."

I've learned that planning for the future can be an expression of gratitude for the opportunities God has already placed in our lives. My wife and I continue to make decisions together, one step at a time. I'm looking forward to the adventures ahead, and I'm thankful for the freedom to enjoy them.

Live long and prosper!

A New Mission Begins

 Stardate 11.03.2026

My Tuesday began with prayers and meditation. With both complete, I turned my attention to the numbers from last night's sleep report.

My energy score was 68, and my sleep score was 69. I spent 9 hours and 5 minutes in bed, with 7 hours and 18 minutes of actual sleep. Deep sleep accounted for 1 hour and 14 minutes, while REM sleep added another 1 hour and 11 minutes. These daily measurements are necessary to help me achieve a 1% improvement in my overall health.

Yesterday involved a four-hour drive to my new assignment. After arriving, I was grateful to discover that my hotel room was quite comfortable. I settled in, unpacked, and enjoyed the opportunity to get some rest.

There is plenty to do here.

One of the pleasures of arriving at a new assignment is meeting the people who will become part of the team. Yesterday gave me the opportunity to meet new teammates and reconnect with familiar faces from previous store openings.

Some relationships have a way of picking up right where they left off. Seeing people again after working alongside them during earlier assignments is a welcome part of this journey.

I've been fortunate to help new employees and thousands of members get started over the years. Each opening brings another group of teammates who are beginning their own journeys. I enjoy being part of that process and helping people find their footing.

My assignment will keep me busy in the weeks ahead. There is already another trip on the calendar, too.

Later this week, I'll travel to San Diego for three days. I'll have an opportunity to reconnect with members of our pickleball board and meet our new national sponsor, Pickleball USA.

The $25,000 grant they awarded us pushed our fundraising total beyond our $200,000 goal. We are one of only two cities to receive this national grant. I'm looking forward to spending time with people who share our enthusiasm for growing the sport.

We are excited to bring outdoor pickleball to our community at no cost to players. None of this would be possible without the dedicated pickleball committee members who have worked tirelessly for more than two years.

I'm also excited to be back in San Diego, a place I called home for nearly 23 years before relocating to the Midwest to be closer to my wife's family.

Two different missions are unfolding this week. Both involve people, relationships, and opportunities to serve.

I was reminded of a passage from Proverbs:

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

I begin each new assignment with prayers and meditation. I ask God to guide my steps and give me opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This morning, I'm comfortable in my new surroundings. My bags are unpacked, my teammates are waiting, and there is plenty of work ahead.

I'm rested and ready.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Another assignment, Spock? And now he's heading to San Diego. When does this man take a vacation?"

Spock: "Doctor, I believe the Captain has already demonstrated a considerable capacity for balancing multiple missions."

Bones: "Well, I hope someone remembers to pack his sunscreen!"

I suppose Bones has a point. Even the most rewarding journeys require time to recharge.

Every new assignment gives me another opportunity to meet someone, lend a hand, and make a difference. I am grateful that God continues to provide opportunities to put those intentions into practice.

One day at a time. One person at a time.

Live long and prosper.

Another Assignment, Another Opportunity

Stardate 11.02.2026

Yesterday was a good day to be home.

I attended worship at my home church and later stopped by the recreation center near my home to check on the progress of our new pickleball courts. The asphalt is down. Seeing the progress on a project that will benefit our community was encouraging.

Late in the day, I received word that my next travel assignment had been approved. My bags were already packed in anticipation of the final project of a busy year.

This morning, my wife drops me off to pick up my rental vehicle. I'll be heading to Wisconsin for the final store opening of 2026.

Every assignment has taught me something new. I've met wonderful people, helped develop new teams, and shared what I've learned along the way. Each new location brings opportunities to make a difference in someone's life.

I've also been concentrating on developing new habits that support my overall health and wellness. Traveling can disrupt familiar routines, so I've been working on making healthy choices part of my everyday life, wherever I happen to be. Those habits are becoming an important part of my daily mission.

A message from my blog partner at DoNotAge® brought another reason to be thankful. He'll be traveling to the United States to help establish a new warehouse so the company can better serve its American customers.

I'm grateful for the encouragement and support they've given me throughout our partnership. They've also been encouraging me to develop my video skills. I've been giving that some attention, and I can see how this ability will benefit many areas of my life. Writing has been part of my daily routine for years. Video gives me another way to share the good things happening around me.

Another trip is on the horizon. I'll be traveling to San Diego to reconnect with my pickleball board and our national sponsor, Pickleball USA. They've invited us to join them in box seats during a professional pickleball tournament. I'm looking forward to spending time with the board, strengthening those relationships, and enjoying some outstanding pickleball.

There are plenty of reasons to give thanks as November begins.

Yesterday I was home, worshiping with my church and checking on the progress of our community courts. Today I'm preparing to work alongside another team in Wisconsin. Other opportunities are already taking shape.

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) offers a simple reminder:

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."

I have another assignment ahead of me. I'll bring what I've learned, remain open to new lessons, and trust God with the opportunities that come my way.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Another assignment, Michael? I hope you remembered to pack everything this time."

Spock: "Doctor, his preparations suggest a high probability of success. His willingness to continue learning is particularly encouraging."

Bones: "Well, let's hope Wisconsin is ready for him."

Some journeys require a suitcase. Others require a willingness to keep growing. I'm grateful that God continues to give me opportunities to do both.

Live long and prosper! 

Live Long and Prosper: A Journey Into Longevity Research

Stardate 11.01.2026

When I began researching material for my book, Live Long and Prosper, I wanted to learn more about the science of healthy aging. That journey eventually introduced me to DoNotAge®.

The company caught my attention through its connection to longevity research. As I learned more, I became increasingly interested in the quality of ingredients used in scientific studies. Researchers depend on reliable materials to conduct meaningful work. That raised an important question for me: Who is behind the products I choose, and what do I know about the company providing them?

I decided to learn more and eventually became a DoNotAge® customer. I have been purchasing products from the company for years.

In September, I traveled to London to attend a DoNotAge® longevity conference. The experience gave me an opportunity to meet people working in the field and learn more about the research and the company's involvement in supporting it.

Michael Mulligan with Alan Graves, founder of DoNotAge®, at the September 2026 longevity conference in London.

I came home with a deeper appreciation for the work taking place in longevity research. I also developed a stronger connection with a company whose mission aligns with an interest that has been part of my writing for many years: extending healthy lifespan for as many people as possible.

Over time, my relationship with DoNotAge® developed into a partnership. That gives me an opportunity to share what I have learned with readers who may be exploring the same questions about healthy aging.

November brings a major DoNotAge® sale, making this a good opportunity to explore some of the products discussed in my book. If you have been curious about a particular ingredient or product, you may find this a convenient time to learn more and consider whether it belongs in your own approach to healthy aging.

I encourage everyone to do their homework. Dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they are marketed. Read the available information, understand what you are purchasing, and consult a qualified healthcare professional when appropriate. Each of us is responsible for making informed decisions about our health.

I continue to purchase directly from DoNotAge® because I value the company's connection to longevity research and my experience as a customer.

Partner Disclosure: I am a DoNotAge® partner. I may receive compensation when readers make purchases through my partner link. I have been a DoNotAge® customer for years and am sharing this opportunity based on my personal experience and interest in longevity research.

Explore DoNotAge® here:

Click here for Black Friday Deals from DoNotAge

Use discount code LLAP (Live Long and Prosper) at checkout for the available partner savings. Please check the company's website for the current sale details and discount terms.

Writing Live Long and Prosper gave me a reason to ask questions about the years ahead. The London conference gave me an opportunity to meet some of the people pursuing answers through research. I look forward to continuing to learn and sharing that journey with others.

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 92:14 (NIV):

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”

I find encouragement in those words. There are still opportunities to grow, contribute, serve others, and make a difference at every stage of life. I hope my own journey encourages someone else to keep learning and take an active interest in the years ahead.

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

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “Spock, I suppose the Captain has decided that living long requires a little homework.”

Spock: “An entirely logical pursuit, Doctor. His research appears to have taken him all the way to London.”

Bones: “Just remind him that there's more to life than reading ingredient labels.”

I have to agree with Bones on that last point. The years ahead are filled with opportunities to enjoy the people we love, serve our communities, and discover what God still has planned for us.

Live long and prosper. One day at a time.