50 Day Countdown to Maximum Vulnerability

Stardate 12.05.2025

Some milestones sneak up quietly… and others stand on the horizon like a sunrise you can feel in your bones.
This one is the latter.

I’m approaching 6,000 blog stories.

That number still takes my breath a little. It represents years of showing up, even on days when the words came slowly… or not at all. It represents choosing hope when discouragement tried to take the wheel. It represents a life lived with a promise to encourage others — even when parts of my own journey were tender or complicated.

And the truth is, it hasn’t been simple.

My family’s privacy matters deeply, so most of their stories stay behind the curtain.
My day job limits what I can share.
Many friends prefer life outside the spotlight.
And yes, some readers step away when I speak about God.

I understand all of it.
But here’s the gentle, honest truth rising in me as I near this 6,000-story threshold:

The best is still ahead.

Over the next 50 days, I’m preparing to peel back the last layer — not for shock value, not for drama, but for growth.
For courage.
For calling.

I’ve avoided controversy most of my life. I know how quickly politics can divide a table, how talk of faith can make people retreat, how raw honesty can feel like a risk. But this next chapter invites me to share with more transparency, more humility, and more heart than ever before.

You may like the direction I’m heading.
You may not.
But I’m stepping into it with resolve, because hiding never helped anyone grow — least of all me.

Thank you for walking with me. The countdown has begun… and the journey is about to open in a way I couldn’t have imagined when I reach the 6,000th mile marker of my blogging/vlogging journey.

May you live long and prosper.
Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Doctor, the probability of the captain maintaining equilibrium during 50 days of heightened vulnerability seems… uncertain.”
Bones: “Spock, for once in your life, let the man be human. Vulnerability is where the good stuff happens.”
Spock: “I am merely calculating the variables.”
Bones: “Well, your variables don’t include heart. Or courage. Or stubbornness — all of which he’s got in spades.”
Spock: “A fair point, Doctor. Then perhaps the outcome is more promising than I projected.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Opening up isn’t about perfection — it’s about trust. About letting God work through the cracks instead of hiding them. This next season requires courage, but it also offers freedom. And I’m ready… one percent at a time.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Search me, O God, and know my heart… lead me in the way everlasting.”
— Psalm 139:23–24

There is no safer place to be honest than in the presence of the One who already knows us completely.

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May this day bring you quiet bravery for your next step, peace for the places that feel uncertain, and a whisper of hope for whatever God is shaping within you.

Day Job Ends in 4 Years and Seven Months

Stardate 12.04.2025

There’s something powerful about putting a date on the horizon — not as an escape, but as a promise. Today, I’m reflecting on a commitment I made to my wife: four years and seven months from now, my day-job chapter will close.

Keeping my word has always mattered to me. I’m not perfect at it — some deadlines end up wrestling with my own human limitations — but this one is different. This one brings peace to my home. This one aligns with our future. And this one stays.

Some of my friends are already basking on beaches, cocktail in hand, easing into the slower rhythms of life. That could have been me. I took risks — some bold, some questionable. A few lifted me. A few bruised me, especially financially. But you won’t find me brooding over those chapters.

I’ve learned to pivot.
I’ve learned to adapt.
And I’m learning to celebrate the journey, bumps and all.

These next four years and seven months may very well be the most fruitful season of my life. I plan to take every lesson I’ve gathered — every mentor’s wisdom, every colleague’s nudge, every challenge I’ve faced — and pour it into a future where my “golden years” shine with purpose, not passivity.

To my mentors, colleagues, friends, and the people I have the privilege to serve: thank you. You’ve shaped me more than you know, and your influence will echo into whatever comes next.

Here’s to the road ahead — steady, intentional, and full of grace.
Have a beautiful day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Captain, your timeline for retirement has been calculated with admirable precision.”
Bones: “Precision? He just doesn’t want to sleep on the couch, Spock!”
Spock: “A practical motivation, Doctor. Highly logical.”
Bones: “Logical or not, I say the man’s earned a little sunshine.”
Spock: “Indeed. Though I suspect he will remain productive long after ‘retirement.’”
Bones: “That’s because he can’t sit still.”
Spock: “A trait… best accepted.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Planning ahead isn’t about control — it’s about peace.
A date on a calendar becomes a prayer when you offer it to God.
And each day between now and then is another chance to grow one percent stronger, one percent wiser, one percent closer to the life He’s shaping.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act.” — Psalm 37:5

A steady reminder that every season, every transition, every dream is safest in His hands.

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Thank you for sharing this quiet moment with me. May today bring clarity to your path, courage for your choices, and a renewed sense of trust in the One who guides your steps.

First Photo of Mulligan's Magical Forest

Stardate 12.03.2025

There’s something tender and humbling about letting someone see the space where your calling comes to life. Yesterday, a friend from DoNotAge became the very first person outside my home to get a preview of my studio — the heart of Mulligan’s Magical Forest.

He and I first connected when I responded to an offer for some free products, and that simple exchange turned into a partnership, a friendship, and my first international blog/vlog sponsorship. When he saw the studio, he immediately noticed the badge he gave me at the first partner conference in New York City this past September — a small reminder hanging on my wall, marking my connection to a circle of curious biohackers from around the world who love exploring the edges of longevity.

And truthfully… everything I’ve shared so far is just the beginning.

Before I take you deeper into the next level of my storytelling, I want to pause and reassure my family and my day-job colleagues: nothing private or confidential will ever appear here.
My family values their anonymity — and I honor that wholeheartedly. The exceptions are my mother and several brave relatives who have chosen to share their journeys alongside mine here in this magical forest.  Thank you aunt Marcie, cousin John, and cousin Mark, for walking with me publicly.  As for the rest of you, you are marked safe, that is unless you die.  I will do my best to help you extend both your lifespan and your health span, but if you cross over, you might show up in a story or two.  Please don't haunt me.  I already have enough spirits showing up in the magical forest.

The most powerful way I can serve you right now is by documenting my mother’s astonishing comeback after nearly losing her life six months ago. Something happened in her healing process — something bigger than a few free products or biohacking gadgets. I believe we stumbled onto a path that could change lives, one gentle step at a time.

That’s why I’ve rebuilt my home studio.
That’s why I’m raising the bar.
And that’s why this blog will soon bloom into a vlog.  You've been with me during my 16 years as a struggling caterpillar.  Soon you will be flying high with me when I transform into the butterfly God created me to be.  I can't wait to break free of my cocoon.  

I want to thank my wife for cheering me on every step of the way. A year ago, she gifted me a one-year Canva subscription — and that simple gift became the backbone of this entire project. Aside from a few pieces of hardware, $12 a month for Canva is my only recurring expense. My virtual team works around the clock for free, and although the $20/month upgrade for Alberta calls my name from time to time… I’m keeping my Dave Ramsey hat firmly on and sticking with the free version.

Thank you, my love, for your encouragement during this home-studio remodel. And thank you to every reader who continues to walk through this forest with me.

Some incredible interviews are on the horizon.
Stay tuned — the adventure is just beginning.

May you live long and prosper.
Have a wonderful day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Doctor, it appears the Captain’s studio has undergone a significant efficiency upgrade.”
Bones: “Efficiency? Spock, the man built a creative sanctuary in the middle of his home. That’s called heart, not efficiency.”
Spock: “Emotion aside, Doctor, the probability of improved outcomes has increased.”
Bones: “Good grief… can’t you just say it looks nice?”
Spock: “Very well. It looks… nice.”
Bones: “There you go. Was that so hard?”

Michael’s Reflection:
Every sacred space begins as a simple room — until purpose fills it.
This little studio is my reminder that when God nudges us toward the next step, the path doesn’t have to be perfect… just open. One percent better. One day at a time.

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Scripture for the Journey

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

A gentle reminder that when we offer God our small efforts, He breathes life into them in ways we never imagined.

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Thank you for taking a quiet moment with me today. May this reflection meet you with peace, purpose, and a renewed sense of courage as you step into whatever God is building in your own life.

86 Year-old Mother of Six May Break Her Great-Grandmother's 114 Year Family Record

Stardate 12.2.2025

Some stories arrive quietly… but carry the weight of generations.

My great-great-grandmother on my mother’s side holds our family’s longevity record: 114 remarkable years. And honestly, it was easier back then. No processed foods. No imitation ingredients. No hidden additives. Life was simpler — and so was nourishment.

Somewhere along the way, our generation drifted. Corporate-funded food pyramids slipped into our schools. Medical training emphasized prescriptions over prevention. Commercials now tell us what drugs we “need,” while leaving out the hope that so many ailments could be eased by returning to the simple, ancestral ways our bodies still remember.

But today’s story isn’t about what went wrong. It’s about what can do to get back on track.

There is one person you may want to watch closely over the next nine months — my mother.

She’s 86. She’s a mother of six. And she’s rewriting the script.

Some may argue, “Michael, she has good genes. Where’s my hope?”
Here’s the truth as I see it: yes, genetics help — but habits shape destinies. Many of us inherited more than DNA. We inherited patterns. Overconsumption of alcohol. Sedentary routines. Emotional eating. Modern living taught us to cope, not to thrive.

But nine months… nine months can create a new life.
Why not let it create a new version of your life?

My mother is ready. She told me she plans to join Silver Sneakers on January 1.
I asked her, “Why not start now? Beat the crowd at the gym and honor your momentum.”

This same woman nearly died six months ago — drowning in her own lungs, fighting for every breath. Yet here she is, choosing life again. Choosing strength again. Choosing growth again.

Join her.

And if you want to know a family secret… she’s been taking the same longevity-focused supplements I found while researching Live Long and Prosper. Her nails are growing like she’s 20 again. Her energy is shifting. Her outlook is brighter. It’s worth doing your own homework and checking out the research company for yourself. And yes, if you use the code LLAP, you’ll get a helpful discount.  Click here for the link to DoNotAge.  For the record, my mom is taking NMN and transresveratrol.  She wanted to start small and test the waters.  My full stack is listed in "Live Long and Prosper" if you want to dive even deeper.  Just make sure you don't get the fake stuff that some imposters are selling elsewhere.  The rewards I earn from your purchases are used to pay for Mulligans Magical Forest which will be launched soon once the home studio is complete.  This is the place where I will be conducting interviews with top people in the field of longevity and some guest appearances by my mother.  

She’s agreed to let me share her journey with you — step by step, percent by percent.
She is my hero. And I believe she’s going to inspire thousands.

Stay tuned for updates, and let her courage spark something new inside you today.
Just one baby step. That’s all it takes to begin rewriting your story.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Doctor, the probability of an 86-year-old surpassing a 114-year benchmark is statistically low… though not impossible.”
Bones: “For heaven’s sake, Spock — let the woman live! She’s tougher than half the starship.”
Spock: “I did not question her fortitude, merely the mathematics.”
Bones: “Well, your math doesn’t account for heart.”
Spock: “On that point, Doctor… I concur.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Watching Mom choose life again reminds me that resilience isn’t loud.
It’s steady.
It whispers, “Start now.”
And sometimes all God needs is a willing heart and a tiny spark — one percent, one day.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.” — Isaiah 46:4

What a promise. What a comfort. And what a companion on the road ahead.

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May today bring you courage for your next step, clarity for your next choice, and peace for the journey God is shaping within you. Thank you for sharing a quiet moment here — may it lift your heart as you move into prayer or reflection.

Hidden Files in the Magical Forest

 

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Stardate 12.01.2025

While I was putting the finishing touches on the magical forest yesterday, I reached for a dusty box tucked behind a stack of old studio gear. Inside were papers I hadn’t seen in more than a decade — legal papers from a chapter of our lives that carried more weight than I like to admit.

Finding them felt like discovering a ghost from an old battlefield… except this time, instead of fear, all I felt was gratitude for how far we’ve come.

Thirteen years ago, after we moved to Iowa, a third-party debt collector sued my wife.

Not because she owed anything.
Not because she had done anything wrong.
But because I was the one who had dug the deep hole.

I was the one they wanted.
But she was the one they believed they could break.

That part still stings when I think about it.

When the summons came, we had no attorney nor could we afford one. They had three owners of a law firm listed on the case. At first glance, it looked like a giant against two tired travelers just trying to rebuild their lives.  We were the Davids in the David vs. Goliath story and we didn't even have five stones and a sling to face the Zombie debt collector who was stalking us all the way from California.

But we didn’t run.

I threw myself into the research — hours learning the FDCPA, studying the process, figuring out exactly what they were trying to pull. I was the one documenting every call, sending certified letters, filing requests, building the paper trail piece by piece. Quiet work, steady work, the kind no one sees but everyone feels the moment truth steps forward.

And then came the part that still fills me with awe:

My wife stood in the place I couldn’t.

She walked into that courtroom carrying the weight of my mistakes… and the strength of everything we’d prepared together.

She didn’t argue.
She didn’t raise her voice.
She simply told the judge the truth — that the plaintiff had refused to respond to phone calls, certified letters, or even a motion to compel my wife filed so we could respond properly to the debt monster.

That calm clarity shifted everything.

The judge ordered the collectors to comply within ten days or face sanctions. Ten days later — the final day, the last possible moment — they dismissed the case.

But the story didn’t end there.

When the collectors ignored our cease-and-desist and kept calling, I documented every violation. We reported them to the Iowa Department of Justice, and senior counsel responded directly. That was the moment the entire pipeline of alleged debts slammed shut.

Not one more attempt.
Not one more threat.
Not one more whisper from that direction.

And I know why.

They realized we weren’t afraid.
We weren’t uninformed.
We weren’t easy targets.

When they couldn’t produce proof, they tried a shortcut called 'Account Stated' — a claim that only works if both parties silently 'agree' that a debt exists. But they received a written denial of the alleged debt, a formal demand for proof of ownership, and requests for documents they didn’t have.  Spock would say their entire case was illogical.  Indeed.

Without agreement, their argument collapsed.
Without evidence, their case died.
Without compliance, the judge stepped in.
And when the DOJ began to watch… the collectors disappeared.

So there I stood yesterday in the studio, magical forest lights glowing softly around me, holding those old papers. Once, they felt like symbols of fear and failure. Now they feel like markers of grace — reminders of how God carried us, how my wife stood strong, and how perseverance turned a painful chapter into a quiet victory.

Those papers are now part of our story, joining the odd treasures that light up the forest — like Dad’s fake shillelagh from Mulligans. They stand as a reminder that even when we’ve dug the hole ourselves… redemption is possible. Healing is possible. Victory is possible.

If you ever stop by, I’ll show you where I found them.
They’ve earned their place among the lights, the memories, and the miracles that brought us here.

More magic tomorrow.
Have a blessed day.

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Captain’s Addendum — Spock & Bones

Spock:
“Doctor, it appears the collectors miscalculated. They assumed intimidation would override logic. Instead, logic dismantled their case entirely.”

Bones:
“Spock, for once I agree with you. But let’s not forget the real miracle — Michael finally let someone stand with him instead of trying to shoulder the whole universe alone.”

Spock:
“An efficient distribution of emotional and strategic resources.”

Bones:
“Good grief, man… it’s called a marriage.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Their banter always reminds me of the balance we’re all learning to walk — truth with tenderness, courage with grace. Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is let someone stand beside you.

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Scripture for the Journey

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.”
— Isaiah 40:31

May this promise strengthen anyone facing old battles, unexpected summonses, or the weight of consequences. God meets us even in the places we created ourselves — and He leads us out stronger than we entered.

Fake Shillelagh Stick From Mulligans in Arizona Added to Magical Forest

Stardate 11.30.2025

Yesterday was one of those rare, joy-soaked days when the work of your hands feels almost holy. I spent the entire day tucked inside my new home studio—Mulligan’s Magical Forest—lost in creation. Snow quietly buried our state in silence, but I hardly noticed. The driveway never got shoveled… not even once. I was too immersed in the place where the magic happens.

Meanwhile, my wife and her trusty elf transformed our home into a Christmas wonderland. Between their sparkle and Mother Nature’s generous snowstorm, it looks like we’re headed for an honest-to-goodness white Christmas.

Now, if you’ve read my first book, God’s Black Sheep Squadron, you already know the shillelagh walking stick my dad entrusted me with years ago—the one that hung proudly inside Mulligans on Cave Creek Road—is a fraud. A charming, ridiculous, utterly inauthentic fraud.

Shillelaghs in Ireland were more than walking sticks. They were symbols—each one carved differently, each one deeply personal. And since pubs sprouted on nearly every corner, you could tell who was inside simply by the shillelaghs leaning by the door. A unique roll call of characters.

For years I carried mine with reverence, telling its story with pride. And many of you, God bless you, kept the truth to yourselves.

When Dad returned after his long absence, I presented his “heirloom” back to him. He studied it, squinted, and delivered his verdict with classic Mulligan flair:

“What is this piece of s**t driftwood?”

“It’s from your bar,” I replied.

“This is a gag from one of my patrons,” he laughed.
And just like that, the great mystery was solved.

Turns out the real shillelagh—Dad’s true treasure—had been entrusted to his sister Peggy. I imagine the two of them in Heaven right now, doubled over in laughter while the whole clan enjoys the joke at my expense. Dad. Peggy. His parents. His siblings—Jim, Dickie, Tom, Uncle Mike, John, Mary… and Dad himself, Patrick John, perhaps the greatest storyteller in a family of ten. What a reunion they must be having.

But this little imposter shillelagh still carries its own kind of magic. It now hangs at the entrance to my magical forest, greeting all who step inside.

So when you visit us here in Iowa, ask to see the famed “inauthentic heirloom.” I’ll show it to you with a smile. It may not be real—but the story certainly is.

Don’t beam me up yet, Scotty. I’ve got thousands more tales to tell before I join the Mulligan clan above. Nearly 6,000 stories live in the archive now… and soon, videos will join them.  I can't wait.  Thank you for your patience with me as I learn this new technology for vlogging which is coming soon.

Cheers, my friend. Have a wonderful day.

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Spock, remind me again—why would anyone proudly hang a fake walking stick at the entrance of a forest?”
Spock: “Doctor, humans often assign meaning to objects based on story, not authenticity.”
Bones: “So you’re saying the driftwood stays because it means something?”
Spock: “Precisely. Though calling it ‘driftwood’ may be unnecessarily unkind.”
Bones: “You didn’t hear the father’s review.”
Spock: “Fascinating.”

Michael’s Reflection:
There’s something sacred about carrying symbols that remind us of where we came from, even if they aren’t perfect—or even real. Sometimes God works through the imperfect reminders, the mismatched pieces, the things that make us laugh. Maybe that’s part of how He keeps us humble… and keeps us going.

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📖 Scripture of Encouragement

“A cheerful heart is good medicine.” — Proverbs 17:22

Sometimes a laugh and a story heal places nothing else can touch.

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✨ Mission Log

Unofficial artifacts, unexpected joy, and the quiet faithfulness of showing up—these are the things that turn ordinary spaces into magical ones.

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Thank you for spending a few minutes of your day with me.
May your heart stay warm, your home feel bright, and your spirit find something to smile about today.

Mom Health Update

One more note before I part.  Some of you are curious about my mother's health.  I spoke to her this morning.  "Don't tell your followers I'm climbing mountains.  They're hills!" she scolded.

 Well, today she added that she is now leaning over to pick up pebbles while climbing hills.  She is ready to join the gym as soon as today.  My buddies across the pond who work at DoNotAge asked if my mom would be willing to document her journey to improved health.  Mom is on it.  She will be keeping a journal.  My siblings and I are super proud of her.  

❄️ Snow Day Today

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Stardate 11.29.2025

There’s a quiet hush over Iowa this morning — the kind that only a snowstorm can bring. Our state is settling into stillness as heavy flakes blanket everything in sight. Forecast says we may see up to 12 inches before midnight, and I’ll be making a handful of trips outside to clear the driveway. But for the most part, today will be spent inside Mulligan’s Magical Forest, where creativity thrives and imagination has room to breathe.

Snow days have a way of nudging us into focus. While roads close and plans pause, new opportunities open. Today feels like the perfect backdrop for finalizing the home studio — the place where future messages of hope, faith, wellness, and transformation will take shape. The experts all say the first videos are never your best work, and that’s okay. Mine will stay private until I find my rhythm, sharpen the edits, and learn the craft with more confidence.

This is all preparation for the conversations ahead — interviews with leaders in the longevity world, financial wisdom for families, wellness strategies rooted in God’s design, and faith-centered discussions meant to strengthen hearts. I’m eager to learn from experts who have courageously tested their own ideas and shared them with the world.

So please don’t worry about us today. We’re safe, warm, and fully in “snowed-in mode.” We’ll pause throughout the day for family time, maybe some hot chocolate, and by the evening our home will glow with Christmas lights. If all goes well, Mulligan’s Magical Forest may even become fully operational by nightfall.

There are good things ahead, my friend — and you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.
Have a wonderful, peaceful snow day.

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Well, Spock, looks like the Captain is braving a blizzard to finish that studio. Ever consider that humans choose the coldest days for the biggest projects?”

Spock: “On the contrary, Doctor. Snow provides a statistically quieter environment. Fewer distractions, more productivity. It is… logical.”

Bones: “Logical? Spock, nothing about shoveling twelve inches of snow is logical.”

Spock: “Perhaps not. But perseverance often appears illogical until the results arrive.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Sometimes God gives us a snow day not to slow us down, but to clear the emotional noise around us. When the world outside becomes quiet, the world inside becomes easier to hear. And in that stillness, He whispers direction, peace, and the courage to take the next step — even if it’s simply finishing the work He’s already placed in our hands.

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✨ Scripture of the Day

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

On days like today, those words feel especially true.

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🌟 Gratitude for the Journey

Thank You, Lord, for the quiet places — the snow days, the pauses, the unexpected moments that draw us closer to You. Help us use them well, with hearts open to Your guidance.

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🧭 Mission Log 

Pause when God pauses. Move when He moves. And in all things — live long, prosper in purpose, and walk boldly in divine love.

86yr-old Mom Crushes Grim Reaper

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🌅 86-Year-Old Mom Crushes the Grim Reaper

Stardate 11.28.2025

Some battles in life feel larger than we are — yet every so often, someone close to us reminds us what courage really looks like. For my mom, that moment came when her doctors told us her chances of surviving were less than three percent. Most people would hear those numbers and brace for goodbye. But my mother? She quietly chose to fight.

She isn’t the first Mulligan to stare down the Grim Reaper and walk away. Three of us have faced our own life-or-death valleys… and somehow, by grace, we’re still here. Mom has always said, “When it’s your time, it’s your time.” I believe that. But I also believe we sometimes shorten that time without realizing it.

So today I’m asking you a simple, honest question:
Are you doing anything that might be cutting your time short?

Not in fear — but in awareness. In stewardship. In hope.

If you’re open to trying a couple of simple experiments that may help you strengthen the years you have and perhaps even stretch the runway ahead of you, stay with me.

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🧡 A Mother’s Comeback Story

Before I share anything about my own journey, let me be clear: don’t interrupt my mother’s current experiment. If you see her trudging up and down the hills in her neighborhood, gripping her walker with determination on her face… don’t offer her a ride. She’s preparing for the next international adventure she and I are planning, and every step is part of her comeback.

Even the Grim Reaper had to stop and shake his head when he lost his grip on her.

Her strength is returning. Her mindset is sharp. And if you look closely at her fingernails in the photo above, you can see signs of renewed vitality. She told me I could share her story — so here’s a photo from one of our vacations in Hawaii, where she insisted on doing more than I thought she could.

She’s a warrior wrapped in kindness. And she’s inspiration for anyone who thinks it’s “too late.”

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🏺 My Own Health Wake-Up Call

If you’re new to this blog, welcome. I stumbled into longevity experiments years ago when I discovered what was happening inside my own body — despite thinking I was living “reasonably healthy.”

It was food-related. The silent kind of trouble that sneaks up on you.

I was following the standard American diet — a plan I now joke is endorsed by “nine out of ten Grim Reapers.” The tenth is the overworked one begging us to give him a break by making better choices.

That moment pushed me onto a different path — not toward fear, but toward stewardship of the years God has given me.

I’m not a doctor, and I’m not a scientist. So here’s the necessary disclaimer:
Always talk to your doctor before trying any experiment or supplement.
A simple lipid panel is one of the best ways to see what’s happening inside your body.

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🔎 A Word About Supplements

If you’re considering the same supplement path my mother and I are on, one caution: make sure your products are legitimate. Fake supplements won’t help you — and they definitely won’t keep the Grim Reaper from punching his timecard early.

The company I use, DoNotAge, is a research-based organization that can verify product purity. I met their founder and CEO in New York at their partner convention, where I also met others who are exploring similar longevity approaches.

Full transparency:
I earn a small stipend from my affiliate code, which helps support my philanthropy work.
But I would share this with you even if there were no stipend, because it has helped my family in meaningful ways.

Harvard researchers have studied combinations like NMN with Trans-Resveratrol or TMG — one acting like fuel, the other like the accelerator. Some early findings were criticized, funding was lost, and reputations took hits… but the researcher kept going, refining his work. That persistence reminds me of my mother: sometimes the first battle isn’t the final score.

My own routine includes NMN, one of the companion molecules mentioned above, and SIRT-6 Activator — a formulation meant to support healthy aging. Again:
talk to your doctor first.  You can find my full supplement stack in my book, "Live Long and Prosper," available on Amazon.

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🛒 A Timely Opportunity

If you’ve been thinking about starting your own experiment, today might be the perfect day. Black Friday is when DoNotAge offers its largest discounts of the year, and my code LLAP (Live Long and Prosper) adds an additional reduction.  Click here for the link.

Mom said she started noticing shifts after about three weeks — so don’t quit early. Consistency is its own quiet miracle.

If you join the journey, I’d love to encourage you along the way.

May you live long, walk boldly in purpose, and prosper in the ways that matter most.

Have a wonderful day.

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Spock, did you hear that? Michael’s mom stared down death with a walker and a will stronger than Vulcan steel.  I heard she was spotted on the pickleball courts in Maui, walker in one hand and paddle in the other.”

Spock: “Indeed, Doctor. Her logic was impeccable. She assessed the odds, ignored them, and proceeded anyway.”

Bones: “You call that logic? I call that heart.”

Spock: “On rare occasions, Doctor, the two are not mutually exclusive.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Strength doesn’t always show up as muscle or medical miracles. Sometimes it’s a quiet walk uphill on a cold morning… a stubborn breath… a refusal to quit. Mom’s journey reminds me that our lives are worth fighting for — one step, one choice, one day at a time.

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📖 Scripture for the Journey

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you.” — Isaiah 46:4

A promise steady enough to trust… and tender enough to rest in.

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Mission Log

Stardate 11.28.2025 — A reminder that courage doesn’t retire, and hope grows stronger with every step taken in faith.

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Thank you, dear friends, for sharing these moments with me. May your day be filled with peace, wisdom, and small choices that carry you toward a longer, richer, more joyful life.

You are loved more than you know.

Happy Thanksgiving

Stardate 11.27.2025

The temperature dipped to 22º before sunrise this morning, and snow is drifting into the forecast for the next couple of days. Even so, the cold can’t quiet the warmth of a day like this. Although our Hawaiian vacation may be over, a part of me will always be connected to those magical islands near the ends of the earth.  We’re gathering with our family and extended family here in Iowa — thirteen years now since leaving the valley of the sun outside San Diego, where we raised our children. Over the years, our roots have taken hold here, woven into my wife’s siblings, their families, and the community that surrounds us. In many ways, we’ve become fully Iowan. And today, our gratitude runs deep.

To our friends and loved ones who are far from us this Thanksgiving — please know you’re close in our hearts. Saying goodbye when we relocated was one of the hardest chapters of our story, and the miles have never changed the love.

As I reflect on what I’m most thankful for this year, my mind goes straight to family. Many of you know that my mother recently arm-wrestled with the Grim Reaper himself. The doctors told us her odds were under three percent. Walking through that valley, combined with the losses of friends and family these last couple of years, has taken a toll on me. I found myself wrestling to regain the positivity that once came easily.

The battles — spiritual, emotional, and personal — still show up daily. Some days the pressure is even heavier. That’s what finally led me to seek professional help, and I’m grateful I did. And while the struggles haven’t magically disappeared, something profound has shifted: I now anchor my days in gratitude, paired with the serenity prayer.

It has become a quiet compass for me — steady, grounding, and life-giving. If today you’re searching for something to be thankful for, or if your heart feels a little heavy, this prayer is my offering to you. I’m thankful for you. I’m thankful you take the time to read these stories — even the ones that were written through my darkest moments.

The Serenity Prayer
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
courage to change the things I can,
and wisdom to know the difference.

Happy Thanksgiving, my friend. May you live long and prosper.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Spock, remind me again why gratitude hits harder on cold mornings?”
Spock: “Doctor, emotional warmth provides a compensatory effect against environmental discomfort.”
Bones: “You mean it warms the heart when the toes freeze.”
Spock: “That is a less elegant phrasing… yet not inaccurate.”
Michael: Gentlemen, maybe that’s the point. When life feels chilly, gratitude is the fire God keeps burning inside us — bright enough to guide us home.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” — Psalm 107:1

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Gratitude to Carry Into the Day

Today, I’m thankful for God’s steady hand — guiding us through snowstorms, valleys, and unexpected mercies — and for the people who walk beside us on the journey.

First Angel I Met En Route to Big Island

Stardate 11.26.2025

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and my heart is already brimming with gratitude. As I look back on our family trip to the Big Island, I’m grateful for every person God placed along our path—but one encounter in particular stayed with me so deeply that I decided to wait until I returned home, so I could honor her story with full attention and both hands on the keyboard.

Crystal was more than a seatmate. She was a guide, an encourager, and a bright reminder that God still sends angels into ordinary places—sometimes right there in the middle seat on a crowded flight to Kona.

Before I tell her story, I want to share the wonderful list of recommendations she gave us. Her tips were like having a personal local guide beside us. While we didn’t have time to explore them all, I’m sharing the full list for anyone planning their own adventure to this beautiful island.

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Crystal’s Big Island Travel Tips

Kona
• Ne’ne Restaurant — a speakeasy-style experience
• Geco Girls Shaved Ice — vanilla/ube ice cream on the bottom, condensed milk on top (Alii Drive)
• Cinnamon Farms
• Coffee Farms
• Pickleball courts next to Huggo’s On The Rocks

Hilo
• Sunset Terrace — pool and barbecue area

Kona–Keahoe
• Golf, restaurants, and pickleball

Kohala (all areas)
• Botanical Gardens (three on the island)
• Animal Rescue Reserve in Waimea
• Volcano National Park
• Captain Cook

Hilton Resort area
• See the dolphins
• Take the boat ride
• Ride the train
• Visit the spa
• Explore the Queens’ and Kings’ Shops

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Crystal’s Story

I was originally assigned the window seat, but something inside nudged me to offer it to my wife. So I settled into the middle seat for the flight from Phoenix to Kona. My mom had boarded early and was seated several rows behind us. Crystal, however, was one of the last passengers to step onto the plane.

She slid into the aisle seat beside me, offered a warm smile, and introduced herself. From the moment we took off, our conversation flowed with such ease it felt as though I were talking to a mirror—only the reflection was a female version of my own adventurous spirit.

Crystal was excited to share her favorite places on the Big Island, the island she and her family call home. Her energy was contagious.

“I want to be an entrepreneur,” she said, eyes bright with hope.

She told me how her dad started by buying up snorkel gear from thrift stores and renting it out to tourists. The business grew into a food truck, which eventually helped fund a vacation rental the family owned for 25 years. From hippy surfer to financial freedom—that’s the dream. And that same spark lives in Crystal.

I asked her what her first step was.
“I’m working on a coloring book,” she said, pulling out her phone to show me drawings filled with personality and heart. She also wanted to include her personal story in the pages.

I encouraged her to consider two books—one just for children, and another for adults. I shared my own journey into independent publishing, including the coloring book I'm creating for the children at our local hospital. I could see the wheels spinning as we talked.

When I asked what inspired her project, her answer stunned me with its depth.

“I’m an esthetician,” she said. “I travel and help burn victims heal their skin. My patients look younger when they do treatments with me.”

Her photos confirmed the healing power of her work. She travels nationwide, helping survivors rebuild confidence and restore hope. She wants to offer coloring books as a source of joy during their recovery.

By the time our plane dipped toward Kona, I realized something: if I had met Crystal before publishing The Adventures of Castaway Wilson, she would have had her own chapter. Instead, I’ll do something even better—I’ll help her publish her coloring book, and I’ll gladly stand with her when she’s ready to share her story with the world.

Crystal, thank you for opening your heart to me on that flight. My family and I will be back on the Big Island one day, and when we do, we’ll make sure to check off the rest of your list. I can’t wait to share your books with my readers when they’re ready.

Mahalo. Aloha.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Spock, remind me again why angels seem to prefer airplanes over starships?”
Spock: “Doctor, it is statistically more likely for humans to initiate conversation when confined to a limited seating arrangement at 38,000 feet.”
Bones: “You could’ve just said, ‘People talk more on planes,’ you know.”
Spock: “I believed I did.”
Michael: Gentlemen… perhaps the message is that God uses whatever space we give Him—airplanes included—to place the right people beside us at the right moment.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some have entertained angels without knowing it.” — Hebrews 13:2

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Gratitude to Carry Into the Day

Today, I’m grateful for divine appointments—the unexpected moments when God places an angel beside us and whispers, “Pay attention. This one matters.”

Anonymous Angel Shares Special Message

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Stardate 11.25.2025

Yesterday, something extraordinary happened — the kind of moment that slips into your day quietly, but leaves your heart wide awake.

As I stood at the front door of my day job — a new assignment that nudged me out of my comfort zone — a man approached me with a direct question.

“What are you selling?” he asked.

“I’m not selling anything,” I said with a smile. “I’m part of an experiment. We’re trying something new.”

He paused, looked at me again, and said softly, “I want to talk to you.”

We stepped to the side, and for the next several minutes, this man unfolded the story of his life — a story marked by tremendous success, deep responsibility, and a five-year journey of recovery that had reshaped him from the inside out. He’d built companies, led teams, and climbed to the very top of the corporate world. But now, he explained, he was on the final step of a long program, one that had brought him face-to-face with grace, humility, and healing.

“I’m buying items to help others,” he said. “This is my last step. And all I can tell you is this — we were supposed to meet today. And I’m grateful for what you’re doing.”

I stood there humbled. He called it his final step. But for me, it felt like a holy appointment — a reminder that God places angels in everyday clothing right at our doorstep.

My boss had asked me to help at the front door, filling in a role much like the angel Roy who worked the front door at the rental car company in Kahului. Customers told me last week how people like Roy help carry us through the moments when life feels like one long line. And now here I was, on the other side of the counter, experiencing the same grace I witnessed in Hawaii.

I wish I could stand on the roof of my workplace and shout about what happened — not about myself, but about the beauty of encounters that feel handcrafted by God. But instead, I’ll honor the assignment I was given. I’ll simply report the truth:

Yesterday, I met an angel.
And he reminded me that none of us walk alone.

Come back tomorrow — I can’t wait to share more stories from the people I met while traveling. I’m starting to see the light in all of it. We really are connected.

Have a wonderful day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Doctor, the statistical probability of encountering two angels in two weeks is… unusually favorable.”

Bones: “Spock, for once in your life, don’t use math to ruin the moment. Sometimes people show up right when your soul needs a tune-up.”

Spock: “Then it appears the Captain experienced what humans refer to as a divinely appointed intersection.”

Bones: “Exactly. And if you ask me, he ought to brace himself — God’s not done sending reinforcements.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Sometimes heaven whispers through strangers. And sometimes, heaven pulls them right up to the front door.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” — Hebrews 13:2 

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Mission Log

Encounters like these remind us that living long and prospering isn’t about success alone — it’s about purpose, connection, and the quiet courage to show up where God places us.

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Gratitude to Carry Into the Day

Today, I’m thankful for divine appointments — the unexpected conversations that wake up the soul and remind us that grace walks toward us long before we know it’s coming.

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Reunited with My Laptop and My Virtual Threesome, Alberta, Spock and Bones

Stardate 11.24.2025

There’s nothing quite like the moment you step off the plane, breathe in Iowa air, and realize you’re home — even after two unforgettable weeks in paradise. We touched down in Cedar Rapids after a redeye from Maui to Phoenix, and before my suitcase even hit the ground, my phone lit up with messages including one from my day job. They were under the impression I was back on the clock on Sunday.

I told my boss, “Not possible — I was flying through the night and somewhere over the Pacific during business hours.” But this morning? This morning I am fully recharged. All ten fingers ready for duty — except my right index finger, which did the heavy lifting for every vacation story typed on my phone. What a relief to be back at my keyboard, reunited with my virtual team: Alberta, Spock, and Bones.

Thank you for your patience with any grammar mishaps during my mobile adventures. Your captain has returned to regular programming — Scripture, reflection, and the banter you’ve come to expect from my starship crew.

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The Vacation That Felt Orchestrated by God

If I could summarize our family trip in one sentence, it would be this: it was orchestrated by the hands of God.

This morning, my wife set an article in front of me written by Dan Buettner, the Blue Zones author. He shared that pickleball is the #1 sport in the world for extending life and improving health.

I smiled. I concur.

Tennis may always be my primary fitness priority — especially for the next decade — but pickleball has carved out a special place in my heart. Not just because it’s fun, but because it’s inclusive. My 86-year-old mother, once a tennis lover, now moves with the help of a walker — yet pickleball still welcomes her. And she will be appearing soon in upcoming stories, with her full blessing, grace, and humor. She is becoming part of this mission right alongside me.

Her transformation has been nothing short of incredible.  Make sure you look at pictures of her fingernails I posted last week showing proof her body is transforming. My brother even called to tell me, “Mom looks younger. What are you giving her?”
She’s been taking supplements from DoNotAge since summer, using my code LLAP, and the improvements are real enough that even family members are commenting.

A Black Friday sale is happening this week, so I’m including a link (click here) for those who want to explore on their own. As always: research, discern, and consult your doctor.

And play pickleball. Seriously — it’s medicine with a paddle.

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New Stories Ahead

Get ready. I met people in Hawaii whose stories border on unbelievable — the kind of encounters that make you pause and wonder if heaven put them there on purpose.

For those who asked to remain anonymous, your privacy is honored.
For those who stand publicly with me, your lessons will become part of our shared journey.

If you’re new here, welcome. This is the beginning of something special — a community committed to living long, prospering in purpose, and walking boldly in divine love.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Captain, your improved manual dexterity now that you’ve returned to a full keyboard is… logical.”
Bones: “Logical? Spock, the man’s fingers just survived two weeks of typing on a phone. He deserves a medal — and some ibuprofen.”
Spock: “Pain is irrelevant, Doctor.”
Bones: “Tell that to his right index finger. It probably needs shore leave.”
Michael: Gentlemen, I appreciate the concern — but after a vacation full of miracles, wonder, and God’s fingerprints, even my index finger feels grateful. Some journeys remind us what truly matters… and this one did.

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Scripture of the Day

“The Lord will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.”
— Psalm 121:8

A beautiful reminder that whether we’re soaring across oceans or typing at our desks, we are never outside the care of the One who guides us.

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Gratitude for Today

Thank you for being part of this mission — for reading, for encouraging, and for walking this road with me one percent better each day.

🖖 Live long. Prosper in purpose. Walk boldly in divine love.

Final Maui Review: Three's Bar & Grill

 Stardate 11.23.2025

Glen brought us our drinks from the bar at Three's, the same Kihie restaurant that supplies some of the best food on Maui to the Teralani crew for sunset cruises. He's the father of Travis, the local surfer who teamed up with two other surfer buddies to found Three's.  We enjoyed the food so much on our sunset cruise that we came back for more on our way to the airport for our flight home.

The pork quesadillas are the bomb.  Stop in from 3-6 for happy hour and get a 40% discount on small menu items.  You will want to come back at least one more time and take advantage of a 10% discount when you show your receipt on your return visit.

I give these 3 surfer owners five stars for value and quality.  Tell them you heard about them from your live long and prosper buddy who got engaged not far from their restaurant 37 years ago.  Mahalo.  Aloha.

Captain’s Addendum 

Our beloved Hawkeyes went into overtime while we were dining at Three's.  There happened to be a gathering of Hawkeye fans nearby while I was interviewing Glen for this review.  I asked them to give a cheer while I recorded them during the game winning field goal.  It was the icing on our cake.  Three's is your place if you're seeking a sports bar vibe.  Glen says he calls our team Tight End University because we're known for cranking out professional players at that position.  It was fun to see so many fans cheering from so far away.  

Way to go, Hawkeyes!  Mahalo for giving us such great entertainment.

Wheels Up

 Statdate 11.22.2025

When I was a young boy, my dad would often say, "Let's survey the kingdom."  We would step outside into our backyard and dad would tell stories while barbecuing his world famous burgers.  I really enjoyed that part of my childhood, especially when the kingdom included extended family.  In Hawaii, this family is 'Ohana.  All I can say today on this final day of our vacation is the same spirit who was with me during my upbringing is still with me today even though dad has been gone for 23 years.  

Most of my adult life has been in obscurity.  I never wanted to be a story teller.  That was dad's gift.  He had the journalism degree.  He had the radio show in Phoenix where I grew up.  In my teenage years, he had Mulligan's.  It was a blessing and a curse.  Last night we had dinner at Mulligans on the Blue.  We met Mike, the owner.  He looked at our youngest son and said, "You're as Irish as it gets."  I have a dark complexion thanks to my mother who has roots a wee bit south of my dad's ancestors.  I would like to thank Mike for buying our drinks after I showed him my driver's license.  He lit up and practically danced like a leprechaun as he headed to the kitchen to prepare the shepherds pie for my wife and our son—his mother's recipe.  

We left in time to witness our last Maui sunset.  It's time to go home.  Thanks to Rebecca and Kat of the Wailea Healing Center next door to Mulligans on the Blue on the 13th green of the golf course, all of us are fully healed after our massages.   My wife said we are all lucky I found this last hidden gem under the rainbow. Dad's slogan on the Mulligans key chains he gave away sums it up—everyone needs a little luck.  Adding my two cents, I think everyone needs a little magic.  Go see the magic show at Mulligans on the Blue every Thursday night.  Book your massage at the Wailea Wellness Center.  You too will be dancing like a leprechaun.  Tell both of these businesses that Mulligan sent you.  We'll be back.  Mahalo.  Aloha.

Captain’s Addendum 

My mother has given full permission to share her life here on this blog.  While my wife I and were silent during our couples massage, apparently my mom chatted the whole time during her outdoor session with the owner, Rebecca Wilson. Perhaps that's what happens when you're sick and nearly dead and the doctors are getting ready to pull the plug.  Not my mother.  She wants everyone to know her fingernails have found the fountain of youth which she believes comes from her NMN's, part of my biohacking experiment.  If you are curious about these supplements, make sure to use the code LLAP to get a 10% discount.  Find the link in the second paragraph of my welcome page.  These supplements are the first items I pack for all my magical adventures.  Mahalo.

Experience Your Own Slice of Heaven on Earth

 Stardate 11.21.2025

God bless the dreamers, the visionaries who can see what others cannot.  The founder of Teralani cruises is one of those people who dreamed big and started his own company on the west side of Maui.  Last night our family experienced the Teralani sunset dinner cruise.  This may be the closest you will ever come to Heaven on Earth, the meaning of Teralani.  

I asked our host, Christian, about the food they serve on board.  "We get our five star food from Threes in Kihie," he answered.  The name comes from three surfing buddies who happen to be five star chefs.  I can tell you their food pairs well with five star sunsets and a five star crew.  We happened to be on Teralani 5 last night.

The pictures are pending as we are awaiting our photo package from Ryan, our five star photographer contracted by the Teralani staff to offer photos of our experience.  She showed us previews of our photo shoot.  If my family grants permission, check back for an update.

In my opinion, the best way to set up your own slice of Heaven is to visit my day job next door to the airport.  Look for the Teralani gift cards.  This will save you 20% on your cruise.  You will not be disappointed.  Tell the crew the man who asked his wife to marry him 37yrs ago on the beach at Kihie sent you.  Mahalo.  Aloha.

Meet the Owners of the First Business to Rebuild in Lahaina

 Stardate 11.20.2025

Over 2,000 buildings burned during the Lahaina wildfire two years ago.  Rebuilding is slow.  There is red tape at every step.  Permits are difficult.  Building materials are in short supply. Roads are closed.  

One business is now open on front street, the center of what was once a tourist mecca.  Check out the three videos below and see the first step in the healing process.  These men are shining stars.  Congratulations on being the first business to rebuild in Lahaina.  Mahalo.  Aloha.

Please share this story and spread the word that Lahaina  needs your prayers and support.  Book a surf lesson with Renten and you will be learning from a legend.

Captain’s Addendum 

Meeting Renten was a Godsend.  He paddled in from the north and approached as if he was some sort of a guardian angel.  At first, we didn't know what to think.  My son wasn't sure what was going on.  Then, something happened.  Our son heeded Renten's advice after several falls. He rode his first wave.

I found out after we came home that our wife was praying for our safety.  She didn't know we couldn't find an instructor in Lahaina.  We decided to rent surf boards on our own.  Renten, perhaps the best surf instructor on Maui, told our son that he heard God's voice instructing him to teach us.  We had two hours of private time with our angel, Renten.  At the end of our time on the water, Renten asked me if I knew the Bible verse about preaching the gospel to the ends of the earth.  

"Indeed," I answered.

Renten paused.  With a giant smile, he stared into my eyes and said, "This is the ends of the earth.  There is nothing else out here for 2,500 miles in any direction."

Live long and prosper, my friend.  Mahalo for your time with us.  I promise to spread your message of God's love for us to everyone I meet.  The way you teach reminds me of how Jesus teaches.  I praise God for you and for the resilient people of Lahaina.  Help is on the way.  Aloha!