My Mother, My Hero, and Her 87th Birthday Wish

 Stardate 10.15.2026

Vacation with Mom last year on the Big Island

Today, my mother, Gloria, celebrates her 87th birthday.

She has read nearly all 6,250-plus stories I've published over the years. Today, one of those stories belongs to her.

A while back, Mom called to ask if she could join me on a trip to the United Kingdom. I explained that there would be plenty of walking. Scotland is a hilly place, and exploring its cities and countryside would require stamina.

She took that information and made it her mission to prepare.

Living in Sunnyslope, Arizona, Mom pushed herself to walk every day. The summer heat there can reach extremes, yet she kept going. She walked up and down the hills in her neighborhood, building her endurance for the journey ahead.

Along the way, she greeted people.

I know her neighborhood through the stories she shares about the people she meets. She takes the time to talk with passersby, including strangers who soon become familiar faces. Mom loves people. She loves travel. Her curiosity about the world keeps her moving forward.

Mom eventually sustained a minor injury and had to cancel her trip to Scotland and London.

My partners at DoNotAge® had invited her to meet their researchers, scientists, and staff at their second annual international conference in London. As one of their oldest consumers, she was going to have a seat at the table with me.

Mom wanted to learn. She wanted to hear directly from the people working in healthy longevity and understand what their research might teach her about living a longer, healthier life.

When the trip became impossible, she had one request for me.

Take good notes.

She wanted me to bring home what I learned so she could continue her own journey toward living long and prospering.

That is my mom. She continues to be a lifelong learner.

At 87, she remains highly motivated to make the most of the years ahead. I don't know anyone in her age group who approaches the possibility of another decade of life with quite the determination she does. While I'm honoring her, I want to give a special shoutout to the oldest person I know in my circle of friends who is now 102. Well done, Mary A. Keep it up!

Today, Mom is celebrating her birthday in Mexico with two of my five siblings. Traveling to a foreign country at her age comes with challenges, as she and my siblings would readily tell you.

On the way to her resort, Mom experienced two tire blowouts. A power outage also wiped out all the food she had stored in her refrigerator.

Then she called me to describe something wonderful.

The incredible view of the ocean she gets to enjoy every morning when she wakes up.

I keep thinking about that conversation. After the unexpected challenges of her trip, she wanted to share the beauty waiting for her each morning. I could picture her looking out over the water and taking in the view.

Tomorrow, Mom will return home from Mexico. I hope she carries wonderful memories of her birthday celebration with my siblings.

She continues to teach me through the way she lives. Her daily walks show her determination. Her conversations with strangers reveal how much she enjoys connecting with people. Her interest in the science of healthy longevity reminds me that we can keep learning and setting goals at any age.

Mom, you are my inspiration. You are my hero.

Happy 87th birthday, Gloria.

To my readers, I have one birthday wish of my own.

Please join me in wishing my mother a happy 87th birthday. She may not see your messages until tomorrow, when she returns home from Mexico, but I know your kind words will mean a great deal to her.

May all her birthday wishes come true.

And may she continue to inspire all of us for all the days of her life.

A Scripture for Mom

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

Psalm 92:14 (NIV)

Mom has reached 87 with a determination to keep learning, exploring, and embracing the days ahead. I pray that God continues to bless her with strength, good health, and many more opportunities to enjoy the people and places she loves.

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your mother's commitment to exploration remains impressive at 87. Her preparations for Scotland demonstrated admirable discipline.

Bones: Two blown tires, a power outage, and she's still talking about the ocean view? I think Gloria has earned another expedition.

Spock: Her continued curiosity suggests the mission remains active, Doctor.

I think Mom would appreciate that exchange. She has a way of keeping her attention on the experiences that make life worth living.

Today, I'm grateful for my mother, for the example she continues to set, and for every reader who takes a moment to wish her a happy birthday.

One day at a time, one step at a time, and one more adventure whenever the opportunity arrives.

Live long and prosper, Mom.

Danger, Danger, Will Robinson!

 Stardate 10.14.2026

Yesterday reminded me how quickly an ordinary day can change.

My morning routine was already off schedule. My mother is vacationing in Mexico to celebrate her 87th birthday tomorrow. During our phone conversation that morning, she told me about two tire blowouts she experienced while driving to her resort!

I'm grateful we could talk. Having Mom celebrate another birthday is a blessing, and I'm looking forward to marking this milestone with her.

Meanwhile, I had brought my sardines with me, intending to keep my daily nutrition routine intact. Conversations with colleagues took over, and I never got around to eating them.

By the time I finished work, I hadn't eaten anything all day.

And then the sky began to change.

My manager on duty warned us about the approaching storm and offered permission to punch out early. I left about twenty minutes ahead of my usual time.

I'm glad I did.

Lightning was striking all around me. Dark clouds were moving in at an estimated 25 miles per hour, and bolts of lightning illuminated the sky. One of the light poles stood beside my rental vehicle, so I kept my distance from the poles as I made my way to the vehicle.

I wasn't interested in becoming part of the weather report!

I had roughly four miles to travel in the direction ahead of the approaching storm. My timing worked out, and I reached the area around my hotel just before the rain arrived.

Before entering Texas Roadhouse, I stopped to take pictures. Texas Roadhouse and Chili's are the two restaurants next to my hotel. The photographs captured the dramatic change in the sky.

I was hungry and wanted to get my food before the weather caused further problems. The restaurant was full, so I headed to the bar. Toby and Bella took care of me right away.

I was concerned that a lightning strike might knock out the power. I wanted to get my meal while the kitchen was still operating and return to my hotel room safely.

While talking with a colleague on my cell phone about the storm, I attracted the attention of people nearby. They began asking what was happening outside.

I showed them my photographs.

After seeing the pictures, the people around me got up and left so they could reach safety.

I'm glad I could help them recognize the danger. The storm had developed quickly, and the people inside hadn't realized what was approaching.

I managed to eat my dinner and return to my hotel room before the heaviest rain arrived.

The storm continued through the night. Rain poured down, lightning flashed, and thunder kept me company for hours.

My sleep took a hit. My energy score this morning was 80, while my sleep score was 40. I recorded 5 hours and 21 minutes of actual sleep.

Those numbers give me something to work with as I continue my effort to improve one percent every day and every night.

This morning brings a welcome opportunity to reset. I have the day off, and I'm looking forward to a couple of hours of pickleball open play at the recreation center, followed by lap swimming. My goal is 45 minutes of lap time.

The hope is to get my sleep back on track with more physical activity today. I'll pay attention to how I feel and adjust my pace as needed.

As I look back on yesterday, I'm grateful for my manager's warning and the opportunity to leave early. I'm thankful I reached the restaurant before the rain and made it back to my hotel. I'm also glad the photographs helped other people recognize the approaching danger.

Psalm 23:4 has been on my mind:

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

The verse reminds me that I can turn to Jesus when circumstances become frightening and uncertain. I can give thanks for the people who helped me, reflect on the decisions I made, and trust Him as I move forward.

Today, I'll carry that gratitude with me as I enjoy the day I've been given.

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

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: Michael, after a night like that, I'd recommend listening to your body before attempting a new swimming record.

Spock: A measured approach to today's exercise would be logical, Michael.

Michael: I'll keep that in mind. I've got pickleball to enjoy and 45 minutes in the pool to work toward. One step at a time.

Perhaps gratitude is easiest to recognize after a night when sleep was hard to find. This morning, I'm thankful for another chance to begin again.

A New Door Opens in Lawrence

Stardate 10.13.2026

The mayor of Lawrence and his staff are now part of our family at my day job. We're excited to welcome him back in a couple of weeks to cut the ribbon and greet our new members.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to be in the room with the mayor and support our new manager. Our general manager is working through the many details involved in getting our new location ready. The weather has been mostly sunny and warm, although a storm is expected later this afternoon. We'll keep moving forward with our October 29 opening.

I asked the mayor what he hoped to see from us when we opened our doors. His answer gave me a better understanding of the opportunity ahead. Lawrence sits between Topeka and Kansas City, and money moves in both directions between those areas. He expressed hope that our presence would help bring more money into Lawrence.

I don't share much about my day job because I'm not an authorized spokesperson for my employer. My stories are about my personal experiences. If I receive permission to interview someone authorized to speak about our culture, I'd enjoy sharing more with you.

I'm feeling a little nostalgic as I think about this stage of my career. The countdown clock keeps ticking, and Luuuucy is waiting in the driveway for me to turn her into a vacation home on wheels. There are adventures ahead, and I'm looking forward to discovering them.

For now, I'm thankful to play a supporting role alongside colleagues who are passionate about serving others. I enjoy watching people work together toward a common goal. There's satisfaction in helping others succeed and seeing a new opportunity take shape.

I also enjoy a good health experiment. Tomorrow is a day off, and I hope to spend some of it playing pickleball during free play at the local recreation center. Afterward, I'll head to the aquatic center for a lap swim. My goal is to use all ten punches on my recreation pass before this assignment ends.

One day at a time, I'm finding ways to serve, stay active, and prepare for whatever comes next.

My wife's favorite verse seems fitting for a day like this:

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

Psalm 118:24

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your colleagues appear to have a capable support officer. Your next mission also includes pickleball and swimming.

Bones: At least those assignments come with a little exercise, Michael. Just don't turn counting pool laps into another countdown clock.

Michael's reflection: I'm grateful for the opportunity to help others succeed while preparing for the adventures waiting at home. There is still plenty of life to experience, one faithful day at a time.

Live long and prosper. 🖖

We're Off to See the Wizard

Stardate 10.12.2026

Today's mission has been set. The mayor of Lawrence has requested a meeting with our team and his staff. They have been gathering information about us, and today we have an opportunity to meet in his office.

There is great anticipation this morning.

I've been asked to support a new manager during the meeting. I've supported employees on previous missions, and this assignment brings back familiar memories. My role today is to be there for the manager and help where I can.

We're also bringing chocolate cake from the bakery at another location. It's a little taste of what our team has to offer.

Golden Hour will be short today. I want to clock in early so we can prepare for the meeting and make our way downtown.

As I get ready, one familiar tune comes to mind.

We're off to see the Wizard!

I don't know how today's meeting will unfold. I'm grateful for the invitation and the opportunity to support a fellow manager. I'll bring the experience I've gained from previous assignments and trust Jesus with the rest.

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 (NIV)

Today is a new day, and a new opportunity to serve.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “Chocolate cake, Michael? Now that's what I call preparing for a diplomatic mission.”

Spock: “An offering with a high probability of generating goodwill, Doctor.”

Bones: “Just make sure the new manager gets the credit, Michael. That's what supporting a teammate is all about.”

I've learned over the years that some of the most meaningful work happens when we help someone else succeed. This morning, I'll walk into the room ready to do my part and see where the mission leads.

Live long and prosper. 🖖

First Swim, First Worship, and First Feedback from Last Assignment

Stardate 10.11.2026

Yesterday was a day off from my day job, and I used the time to explore my new surroundings.

My body is still adjusting to the time change from my recent travels in the UK. Getting my rhythms back in sync has taken patience. Rest days have become an important part of that process.

This morning, I woke up feeling better. My sleep report showed steady improvement, which was encouraging to see. I'm learning to give my body the time it needs while continuing to work toward my health goals.

One percent better every day.

The Words Came Back to Me

My supply of sardines had run out, so I returned to the area of my previous assignment to replenish my stock. I picked up six more cartons and encountered several managers and staff members I had worked with during my training assignment.

As we caught up, something wonderful happened. Several people, independently of one another, told me they were working to get 1% better every day.

Those words stayed with me.

I've spent years trying to live by that philosophy. When I'm learning something new, I make plenty of mistakes. I need my share of mulligans, those opportunities to try again after getting something wrong.

I've learned to accept that part of the process. I take responsibility, learn what I can, and keep moving forward. That approach helps me manage my anxiety when I'm facing a new challenge.

Hearing those familiar words from people I had worked with made my day. I returned to my current assignment feeling fulfilled.

The First Swim

Later that afternoon, I used the first punch on my aquatic center membership card. Ten visits were available, and I was ready to begin building a new routine.

The Olympic-size pool gave me my own lane. I alternated among several swimming strokes and worked toward my goal of thirty minutes in the water. I took a few brief rests along the way and completed the session.

After swimming, I moved to a second pool with jacuzzi jets to soothe my muscles.

Thirty minutes in the water felt good. I had challenged my body, reached my goal, and taken the first step toward a habit I hope to maintain for the rest of my life.

Nine punches remain on my card.

An Invitation to the Wedding Feast

After my swim, I showered and made my way to the University of Kansas campus for its 4 p.m. Saturday worship service.

The priest reminded me of Fr. Mike Schmitz, whom I met during an earlier work assignment. His homily centered on the parable of the wedding feast.

The invitations had gone out, but the invited guests didn't respond. Messengers were sent to remind them, and those messengers were killed. The host eventually opened the invitation to everyone, including people others might have considered unworthy of an invitation.

The pastor spoke about Jesus inviting you and me to be with Him.

He wants us at the wedding feast, even when we think we don't belong.

That message went straight to my heart.

I know my flaws. I know how many times I've needed a mulligan. Sometimes I carry those shortcomings with me longer than I should.

Yesterday's homily reminded me that Jesus wants me with Him. His invitation is there, and I can accept it.

What a beautiful expression of love.

One More Day, One More Step

This morning, I woke up feeling better, and my sleep report supported that feeling. I'm ready to seize the day.

I have more work to do as my body recovers from travel. I'm also establishing routines in a new environment, and I know those habits will take time to develop.

I'll keep working at it.

The next time I visit the pool, I'll punch another hole in my card. Each visit gives me an opportunity to practice a habit that can support my health for years to come.

And I'll keep making room for the occasional mulligan. That's part of learning, whether I'm working on my health, beginning a new assignment, or trying to become a better person.

Jesus continues to invite me forward, and I have another day to say yes.

Scripture

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

— Psalm 118:24 (KJV)

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, the evidence suggests that consistent effort is producing measurable progress. Your former colleagues appear to have adopted the same philosophy.

Bones: And he managed to get his swim in, hear a good homily, and rest his muscles. Maybe there's hope for that body of his yet.

Spock: Your bedside manner remains as precise as ever, Doctor.

Michael's Reflection

I'll take the progress, Doctor. I'll take the mulligans, too. Every new day gives me another opportunity to learn, to grow, and to accept the invitation Jesus keeps extending.

One percent better, one day at a time.

May you live long and prosper. 🖖

An Eye Exam That Changed My Direction

 Stardate 10.10.2026

Sometimes a conversation can send you down a path you never expected to travel.

In late 2023, I went to my eye doctor for a routine examination. During our conversation, he shared his concern about the growing problem of diabetes in America and its effect on people's vision.

He was careful to stay within the boundaries of his specialty. He wasn't diagnosing me or offering medical advice outside his area of expertise. He simply suggested that I might find some worthwhile ideas in a book by Dr. Jason Fung called The Diabetes Code.

I took his suggestion seriously.

Nina Teicholz wrote the book's foreword. Her work on dietary fat and nutrition introduced me to questions I wanted to explore further. I began reading about researchers and authors who challenged familiar ideas about food and its relationship to health.

Teicholz wrote The Big Fat Surprise. Professor Tim Noakes also caught my attention. His professional-conduct case in South Africa ended with him being cleared of the charge against him in a dispute involving his public comments about infant feeding and a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet.

I wanted to understand the evidence behind these debates. The more I read, the more interested I became in examining my own habits.

My Own Experiment

I've conducted food experiments over the years and recorded changes in my weight and blood pressure. One earlier experiment resulted in a weight loss of more than 30 pounds. I kept daily blood-pressure readings as I went along.

I've recorded the details of that experience in my book, Live Long and Prosper. Readers who are curious about the experiment can find the full account there. All proceeds from the book are donated to University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, helping support the children and families who receive care there.

My current approach to food has evolved. I'm eating mostly red meat, sardines, and other seafood, with an emphasis on minimally processed foods. On some days I eat one meal; on others, two. I'm no longer experiencing the same hunger between meals that I once did.

I'm also paying attention to sleep, sunshine, exercise, stress management, prayer, and meditation. These daily habits have become part of my ongoing investigation into how I can extend my healthy lifespan.

I also take supplements from DoNotAge®, a research company whose mission is to extend healthy lifespan for as many people as possible. I partner with the company because its work aligns with my interest in this field.

If you'd like to explore the supplements I use, you can visit DoNotAge® through my partner link. Use code LLAP at checkout for a discount if you decide to make a purchase. I receive a stipend when you use my partner code, and I appreciate your support.

The Next Set of Numbers

In December or January, I plan to have a comprehensive blood panel performed. I'm especially interested in my Omega-3 Index after my extended experiment with eating sardines regularly.

My cousin John has also been exploring a similar approach to food. He recently received results from a comprehensive blood panel that left him encouraged. One measurement he discussed with me was ApoB, which helps assess the number of cholesterol-carrying particles associated with cardiovascular risk.

His results have made me even more curious about what my own bloodwork might reveal. I'll need to see my numbers and discuss them in the context of my overall health before drawing conclusions.

A new panel will give me a snapshot of where I stand. Without comparable earlier measurements, I won't be able to determine precisely how much any particular food or supplement has changed a result.

Weight and blood pressure are useful measurements, and I've been keeping track of both. They don't tell the whole story about cardiovascular health, inflammation, or metabolic function. The upcoming tests will give me additional information to discuss with my healthcare professional.

I intend to keep recording what I eat, the habits I practice, and the results I receive. I'm curious about what the numbers will show.

A Thought for Today

My eye doctor offered a book recommendation during an ordinary appointment. I followed that suggestion, and the reading led me into a subject that continues to hold my attention nearly three years later.

I've made changes along the way. I've recorded some results. There is still plenty for me to learn.

Psalm 90:17 offers a prayer I return to often:

“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 pray that the work I'm doing each day will bear good fruit, for my family and for others who might benefit from what I learn.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your investigation began with a routine eye examination. The consequences have proved unexpectedly far-reaching.

Bones: Just keep those blood tests coming, Michael. Curiosity is fine, but I'd like to see the medical charts before anybody declares victory.

I have a few more questions to answer, and I intend to keep asking them one day at a time. I'm grateful for the people who point me toward something worth exploring, and for the opportunity to keep learning as I go.

The Mission Clock and the Gift of Time

 Stardate 10.09.2026

Every morning during my meditation, I ponder three wishes.

Health.

Longevity.

Financial peace.

These three blessings provide the framework I'm building on as I prepare for the next chapter of my life. I bring them into my morning prayers and ask Jesus to help me become a good steward of what He has given me.

Each one has a place in the life I'm working to build.

I want to take care of my health so I can remain active and enjoy the experiences ahead. I want longevity because I look forward to sharing more years with my wife. Financial peace matters because I want to approach our future with confidence and the freedom to make thoughtful choices together.

This brings me to the mission clock.

I've set Stardate 07.05.2030 as the milestone marking the beginning of my next mission. I'll be turning seventy that year, and I look forward to closing one chapter of my working life and opening another.

The thought of having more time with my wife fills me with gratitude.

I imagine visiting places we've never seen, trying new experiences, and spending time with friends who have become part of our lives. I think about the freedom to decide what we'd like to do on an ordinary Tuesday and having the time to do it.

Those possibilities give the mission clock its meaning.

My preparation has already become part of my daily life. I continue working on my health. I pay attention to our financial future. I explore new ways to tell stories, share my faith, and support causes that matter to me. Each day offers another opportunity to learn something useful.

I returned from Scotland and London with new experiences and new friendships. I'm learning to create YouTube videos and discovering ways to introduce my writing to new readers. At this stage of life, I still have plenty to learn, and I enjoy the process.

I have a long-standing practice of trying to become one percent better, one day at a time. That approach serves me well as I prepare for 2030.

My morning meditation brings me back to the three blessings. Health. Longevity. Financial peace. I hold them with gratitude and ask Jesus to guide my choices.

Scripture offers a beautiful reminder in Psalm 118:24:

“This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24, NLT

I love the reminder in these words. Every morning brings another day to appreciate the blessings Jesus has placed in my life. I can prepare for the future while finding reasons to be grateful for the present.

My wife and I have plans for the years ahead. Today, we have another opportunity to enjoy the life we've been given and take another step toward the experiences we hope to share.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: “Michael, you've got a clock counting down to 2030 and three wishes to keep you busy every morning. When do you plan to relax?”

Spock: “Doctor, I believe the Captain has already identified his objective. He wishes to maximize the time available for shared experiences with his wife.”

Bones: “Well, that's one mission even I can understand.”

I have spent years working toward goals and preparing for what comes next. Today, I'm grateful for the opportunity to keep preparing while enjoying the life Jesus has given me. The mission clock gives me a date to anticipate, and each morning gives me another chance to make the most of the time I have.