This is What Matters Most to Me

Happy Saturday. I hope this message finds you well.

Lately, I’ve been going deep. Today, I want to share something that’s been on my heart for a while. And no—don’t cue the violin music. I just want to be real with you.

The truth is, I haven’t quite felt like myself. I’ve been navigating a season of loss—saying goodbye to friends and family members who’ve left this world far too soon. It’s created a heavy void I’m learning to carry.

On top of that, there have been some personal attacks—things I’d prefer to keep private. But I will say this: as a believer and follower of Jesus, I sense that some of these challenges are not just earthly. At times, it feels like dark forces are disturbed by the light I’m trying to share.

But here’s what matters most to me: I will keep sharing—no matter what.
No matter what’s going on in the world. No matter what’s going on in my life.

I’ve tried hiding. It doesn’t work.
I’ve tried staying silent. That doesn’t work either.
And running from the battles? It only delays the calling.

Following Jesus isn’t easy. It was never meant to be. But I have a feeling I’m not the only one walking through this kind of fire.

So thank you—for being here.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your life.
Thank you for visiting.

Have a great day—and keep going. You’re not alone.

The Baby Steps are Working

Some days, forward progress feels minuscule. On those days, I summon all my strength to do just one thing. Sometimes, it's only a single baby step.

Looking back at the times when I felt stuck—especially during the pandemic—I’m grateful for those small steps. They added up. They carried me forward, even when I couldn’t see it in the moment.

I’ve found that the baby step method works especially well when tackling projects so big they feel overwhelming. And that’s exactly where I am today—standing at the base of something massive. But instead of letting it paralyze me, I’m taking one small step. Tomorrow, I’ll build on that.

How about you? Are you surprised that this year is already 25% gone? How have the last three months been for you?

Promise yourself this: Take at least one baby step today.

Have a great day!

When a Community Comes Together

When a Community Comes Together…

There’s something magical happening in my hometown. The entire town of Williamsburg is rallying behind our mission to bring outdoor pickleball courts to our community recreation center. This week, our list of supporters grew to 500, and donations are rolling in daily. Special pickleball shirts are flying off the shelves—people can’t get enough of them!

But pickleball is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. If you haven’t experienced it yet, come visit the Williamsburg Rec Center and see what all the excitement is about. The best time to meet new friends and jump into a game is on weekday mornings at the indoor courts. Due to the overwhelming success of the youth programs at the rec center, weekend play isn’t available right now—but that will change once the outdoor courts are built. And that happens as soon as we reach our fundraising goal!

If you’ve never played before, don’t worry—this community is full of people who would love to teach you. So come on out, be part of something special, and see for yourself why pickleball is bringing our town together.

Have a great day!

Jesus on the Big Screen: A Must-See Experience

Last Saturday, my wife and I watched The Chosen: The Last Supper, Part 1 in theaters. We plan to follow up with Parts 2 and 3 over the next two Saturdays while it’s still on the big screen for a limited time. In my opinion, this is one of the most powerful ways to understand what was happening in the final days before Jesus was crucified.

The best way I can summarize this incredible theatrical portrayal of Jesus and His followers is by paraphrasing Mary Magdalene’s words from Episode 2 of The Chosen’s first season:

“I was one way, and now I’m completely different. And the thing that happened in between was Him.”

There were about ten others in the theater with us—none with popcorn. This isn’t the kind of movie you watch while snacking. Director Dallas Jenkins masterfully captures the emotions of each character, including the adversaries who genuinely feared the threat Jesus posed to those living under Roman rule.

Do yourself a favor—go see Jesus on the big screen while you have the chance. But before you do, watch the first four seasons at home to truly connect with the characters. You won’t be disappointed.

For a sneak preview, check out the YouTube video below.

Have a great day!

Click here for the link.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Your race started the day you were born. How’s it going so far?

It’s hard to believe I’ve been on this track for nearly 65 years. I’ve learned that I do my best when I focus on my own progress—no matter how slow it may seem at times. The key is to find your rhythm and stick with it. Speed isn’t what matters most. What truly counts is that you keep moving forward.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned about forward motion has to do with the baggage I carry. The more I let go, the easier it becomes to pick up the pace.

So keep going. Trust your rhythm. And remember—slow and steady wins the race.

Have a great day!

Why You Should Adopt a One Day at a Time Strategy

Feeling overwhelmed? Frozen by your to-do list? Struggling to get things done? If so, keep reading—I’ve discovered a simple yet powerful way to tackle endless tasks and impossible deadlines while keeping your sanity intact. The best part? Your friends and family will appreciate your newfound ability to manage your time, allowing you to be fully present without the weight of overwhelm.

First, set aside all the past attempts that didn’t go as planned. Silence that inner voice telling you your goals are impossible. Instead, shift your focus to one thing—today. Whenever your mind drifts toward future worries or looming responsibilities, gently bring it back to the present. This one day at a time strategy helps you break free from paralysis and eases the burden of anxieties tied to things that haven’t even happened yet.

Since today is Monday, let’s start fresh. Can you identify three things you do that waste time? If so, challenge yourself to eliminate them—just for today. Then, with the extra time you’ve reclaimed, decide how you’ll use it to move forward. Try this approach for the next 30 days, and I bet you’ll find yourself in a much better place than you are right now.

Are you in? Start today. Let’s take it one day at a time—and see where it leads.

Have a great day!

The Power of the Right Kind of Growth

 The Power of the Right Kind of Growth

In a world that constantly pulls us in different directions, it’s easy to feel like we’re caught in a whirlwind of stress, pressure, and division. But what if we measured success, not by what we achieve, but by the kind of person we become? Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us that the true markers of a meaningful life aren’t wealth, status, or power—they are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These aren’t just ideals; they are the evidence of a life deeply rooted in something greater than ourselves.

Think about the people who have made the biggest impact on your life. Chances are, it wasn’t because they had the most money or the loudest voice, but because they embodied one or more of these qualities. A single act of kindness can restore hope, patience can heal relationships, and self-control can keep us from making choices we regret. In a culture that often glorifies instant gratification and self-interest, the fruit of the Spirit calls us to a different way of living—one that brings real, lasting fulfillment.

The best part? This kind of growth doesn’t come from striving or forcing it. Just like fruit grows naturally when a tree is healthy, these qualities develop in us when we focus on the right things—things like gratitude, compassion, and seeking wisdom beyond our own understanding. The more we nurture these in our daily lives, the more we become people who leave a legacy of love, peace, and goodness in a world that desperately needs it.

So here’s my challenge for you today—choose one “fruit” to focus on. Maybe it’s patience with a difficult coworker, kindness toward a stranger, or self-control in a moment of frustration. Small steps lead to big transformation. Which one will you start with?

Have a great day.

Two Dates in One Day Today

Today marks the first Saturday in a trilogy of special weekends with my wife, and we’re kicking things off with not just one, but two dates in a single day.

Part I takes us to the movies for the premiere of The Chosen Season 5. There’s something truly powerful about seeing Jesus on the big screen, experiencing His story in a way that brings it to life in a whole new way.

Later in the evening, we’ll be supporting our local theater, directed by a talented guy named Milligan. This will be our third time watching him and his team in action, and we’re looking forward to another great performance.

The day starts early with some cardio tennis drills at 8 AM, setting the tone with energy and movement. After that, I’ll be stopping by my house of worship for a special ceremony, where I’ll have the chance to meet our new top leader. We’re especially grateful that the new bishop has already approved our remodeling efforts in Williamsburg—construction will begin soon!

Wishing you a Super Saturday! Have a fantastic day.

How Are You Doing With Those Rest Breaks?

Most people don’t think about rest breaks until they’re already exhausted. If that’s you, you’re not alone—but you’re also doing yourself a disservice. I know because I’ve been guilty of this too. When my plate is overflowing, I cave in and skip my breaks. Before I know it, I’m slipping—whether it’s in focus, energy, or even motivation. The same thing happens when I sacrifice sleep to chase my goals. If you’re struggling to meet your goals, this might be the hidden culprit.

The solution? Rest before you get tired—and do it consistently.

Yesterday, I did something unusual at my day job. I asked my boss if I could leave four hours early. I wasn’t exhausted. I simply wanted to rest. When he said yes, my spirit soared. What a relief! My usual routine includes 15-minute breaks every two hours, but a four-hour break? That felt like a mini-vacation. It made me realize this might be the missing ingredient in my busy life.

Be cautious around people who claim they’re too busy for a vacation. The truth? They’re often just not organized enough to get things done, so they cheat themselves out of rest—making the problem even worse. Left unchecked, this cycle can go on for years.

Moving forward, I’m making rest a priority. How about you? Are you taking your breaks?

Have a great day!

Happy Birthday to My Sister

Happy Birthday to My Sister

You won’t find her on social media—she prefers a life of quiet solitude. But without sharing anything that would compromise her privacy, I just want to take a moment to acknowledge the third sister in our family celebrating a birthday within the past seven days.

Family legend tells a tall tale about why so many of us were born during the month of March—enough to field a baseball team. All I’ll say is, this is the team you’d want on your side.

Lately, I’ve been facing some significant challenges, and in the midst of it all, I learned that one of these special ladies quietly stepped in to answer a request I had made to our mother. I had asked Mom to light a candle in her place of worship for my prayer intentions. But when she reached for her wallet, she realized she had left it at home. Without hesitation, another family member stepped in to cover it. Thank you.

Happy birthday to my sister and to all my family members celebrating this month. Wishing you a wonderful day!

Where Dreams are Made

Great sleep leads to increased productivity during your waking hours. This is something I’ve been fine-tuning for the last 15 months since I began seriously tracking my sleep cycles. Last night, I achieved an 85 sleep score.

One highlight was my REM sleep—the stage where dreams are made—which hit a near-record high of 1 hour and 42 minutes. Another big win was in deep sleep, the stage responsible for physical recovery. I spent 1 hour and 33 minutes there, translating to a 94% physical recovery.

It’s tough to dream big during the day when you’re running on empty. As I head into another busy season, I’m focusing on maintaining and improving my sleep quality. If you’re looking to do the same, find a way to measure both the quality and quantity of your sleep. A smartwatch has been a great tool for me. Just remember to make adjustments gradually, giving your mind and body time to adapt.

Wishing you a restful night and a productive day ahead!

A Special Thank You to My Brother

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to my brother, Dan, for his thoughtful act of kindness yesterday. When he learned that our mom was having trouble ordering my latest book, The Adventures of Castaway Wilson, he stepped in without hesitation—purchasing a copy for her through Amazon and covering the cost himself. Thanks to him, Mom will receive her book today, hopefully without the shipping delays I experienced when ordering my first copies.

I'm also grateful for the positive feedback coming in from my first readers. Venturing outside my comfort zone with this coffee table book has been both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. As always, I’m hopeful that my mom enjoys the book as much as I enjoyed creating it.

Thank you, Dan. Your kindness means the world.

Wishing everyone a great day!

Shocking Feedback From First Reader of "The Adventures of Castaway Wilson"

I was barbecuing burgers on Saturday afternoon when I got the text message. It just came! I was thrilled to see it was Joni, a longtime friend and retired coworker who also happens to be my accountability partner. I responded, "If you like the book, can you please leave a review on Amazon?"

Moments later, she followed up with stunning news—another strange coincidence that raised the hair on my arms. "I'm on page 16. It looks like the doctor you met is the same one who invented the procedure used to heal my heart when I was diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia in 1997."

I wish Albert Einstein were around to help me understand what is going on in my life right now because this is way over my head. He labeled this strange phenomenon I'm experiencing as 'spooky action at a distance.'

Joni is one of the few people in the world who knows about my top-secret project. I have a feeling Joni's husband is watching over all of this from above and is somehow playing a role in it. If Spock were here, I'm sure he would say, "Fascinating. Indeed."

Make sure you get your copy of "The Adventures of Castaway Wilson." When you're done, please leave a review on Amazon. The adventure is just beginning. Have a great day!

3 Dates at the Movie Theater

If you haven’t jumped on The Chosen bandwagon yet, there’s still time before Jesus arrives on the big screen next week. I highly recommend it!

I’ll admit, I didn’t know much about this series until friends at my place of worship started talking about it. But once I watched the first episode of Season One, I was hooked—I binged the entire season in just a few days. Now, with Season Five premiering in theaters just in time for Easter, I’m planning three movie dates over the next three weeks to experience it on the big screen.

If you haven’t discovered The Chosen yet, stop what you’re doing and start Season One now. And if you get drawn in like I did, maybe I’ll see you at the theater next week when Season Five premieres.

This is the greatest story ever told, based on the number one bestseller of all time. In my opinion, seeing Jesus up close and personal on the big screen is as good as it gets.

Have a great day!

My Faith Seed Sprouted Yesterday

Are you aware of how fast bamboo can grow once it breaks ground? The Moso Bamboo, for instance, can shoot up to 60 feet in just three months. That’s incredible—especially considering that some varieties remain hidden underground for years before sprouting. What’s unseen during that waiting period is the massive root system developing beneath the surface, essential for keeping the bamboo strong and stable during its rapid growth.

My faith seed has been much like that bamboo seed. I did my best to water and nurture it, even during seasons of famine when I often doubted my own existence. Now, I’m finally mature enough to recognize the flaws in my farming methods—especially my tendency to ignore my weaknesses while focusing only on my strengths.

Take my tennis game, for example. For the last 50 years, my performance has been limited because I neglected a crucial weakness: my backhand. My opponents simply had to avoid my forehand and exploit my backhand to gain the advantage. But after half a century, that backhand finally sprouted—and with it, my faith seed broke through as well, after an even longer season of waiting.

If you’re the curious type, check in with me—I’d love to share more about this journey of faith. I’m grateful for the deep root system that has formed, as well as the strong support network I have in place. Now, it’s time to lace up my shoes and head out for my morning cardio tennis drills at 8 a.m.

Have a great day!

First Shipment of 'Castaway' Books Delayed

 Amazon informed me my first shipment of books is delayed until Sunday, 3/23.  This doesn't even phase me.  This gives me time to work on my top secret project.  Thank you for your patience.  Have a great day.

First Book Shipment Arrives Today

First Shipment of Books Arrives Today

Amazon is delivering my first shipment of books today, and I can barely contain my excitement. The truth is, I needed a little help from above to get this book published on time for St. Patrick’s Day.

"Our daughter's birthday celebration begins at 3 PM—with or without you," my wife warned as I headed out the door, on my way to the UI Stead Family Children's Hospital in preparation for the birth of my book. The notice from Amazon stating that the book release could take up to 72 hours left me unsettled. I wanted to be in my favorite prayer setting—the meditation room on the 12th floor of the children's hospital. That sacred space had been a source of great comfort during my six-week recovery from my auto accident. I promised myself I wouldn’t leave until I received word from Amazon that the book had officially launched.

Today is the perfect time to pause and express my deepest gratitude to my friends and family for the incredible outpouring of support during this book launch. The first order of business? Autographing the very first copy and sending it to the gentleman who placed the highest bid on the original 18x24 cover art. J.T. Egley generously donated the piece as a silent auction item, raising $500 for the children's hospital.

The books arrive just in time for the next fundraising drive at my day job. If you’d like to support the cause, click here to order your copy today.

Have a great day!

The Power of Two

There is a reason Jesus started his world makeover in small groups of two. Believers understand this deeply. Those who have yet to know His ways might overlook it. I not only grasp this truth, but I fully embrace it. It is at the very core of how I conduct training missions, sometimes far from home.

Today marks a significant milestone in my journey. It is the day before my first set of books arrive. In the publishing world, I now have the power of two—twin books. As for my mission on this planet, I am about to be joined by a teammate who will collaborate with me on a top-secret operation. The details remain unknown, unfolding on a need-to-know basis. All I can say at this moment is that what is about to happen is a game-changer in every area of my life.  Stay tuned.

Have a great day.

Behind the Scenes with the Irish Twin Books

Unless you’re a close family member, you’ll never hear the stories of our children’s births through my wife’s eyes. She and they are mostly private. Perhaps that’s why my inanimate friends play such an important role in helping me share my stories while keeping my family out of the spotlight.

Yesterday, while my wife stayed home making final preparations for our daughter’s birthday, I drove to the children’s hospital to usher in The Adventures of Castaway Wilson—the Irish twin book to Live Long and Prosper. My time at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital turned into quite the adventure, especially since gaining entry is nearly impossible unless you’re visiting a specific patient or have an appointment.

All visitors are required to check in and receive a badge.

“Which patient are you visiting today?” the hospital employee asked.

“I’m not visiting any patients,” I replied. “I’m here to pray. I’d like to go to the meditation room.”

The employee seemed caught off guard but asked me to sign in.

I volunteered that my book was about to be born at any moment and that I needed to ask God for guidance. Then I added, “After my prayer time, I’d like to see the most important person in the building.”

After a long pause, the employee directed me to check in with the security guard across the walkway.

Noah, the security guard, did his best to keep an eye on me after he escorted me to the concierge desk. The employee he intended to hand me off to wasn’t there, so Monica stepped in.

“What’s your role here?” I asked.

“Billing,” she answered.

“Perfect,” I said, sensing from her body language that she was determined to make sure I got what I needed.

Meanwhile, Noah stood behind me, still debating whether it was time to escort me off the premises. I turned to him and said, “Our time together will be written about in my blog. Would it be okay to get your picture?”

“No pictures in the hospital, please,” Noah replied. “HIPAA rules.”

Monica wrote down the names and phone numbers of the people I needed to contact regarding the next step in my journey and handed me the paper.

“Are these folks in the building?” I asked.

“It’s a short drive away,” she answered.

“That won’t work right now. If it’s okay with you, I’d like to sit down and pray while I wait for the concierge to return.”

I took a seat and went into full prayer mode. Earlier that morning, I had hit the publish button for The Adventures of Castaway Wilson, and Amazon’s response stated it could take up to 72 hours to process. I closed my eyes and asked for Divine help.

Monica seemed nervous. “It might be a while before the concierge returns,” she said.

I walked over to her. “That’s okay—I have plenty of time.”

Noticing a chain around her neck, I asked, “Are you a person of faith?”

“Yes,” she answered.

“Are you wearing a cross?”

She pulled on her chain and revealed a medallion of the Virgin Mary.

I told her a story about my time in Ireland and asked if she knew about Our Lady of Knock. She had a vague recollection. I assured her it was the same Mary, Mother of Jesus. Then, I returned to my seat and closed my eyes one more time—praying that Wilson would be born while I was still in the hospital.

Moments later, the concierge arrived. He confirmed what Monica had told me and directed me offsite. Before I left, I checked my phone.

An email from Amazon.

“The Adventures of Castaway Wilson is now available.”

I smiled. “Looks like I won’t need to visit the meditation room after all,” I told them. “My book is born.”

I thanked them for their time and headed home to celebrate our daughter’s St. Patrick’s Day birthday. The rest of the day was devoted to family. It was a great day.

As for the children’s hospital—our time together is just getting started.

Stay tuned for the rest of the story. Have a great day.

Headed to the Hospital for Delivery–Again!

Thirty-two years and two weeks ago, my bride of 35 years visited her doctor. She told him about my prediction.

"Sorry to inform you that nothing's happening," he said. "Tell your husband it's going to be later than he thinks."

My wife came home and shared the news that the doctor predicted our baby would arrive later in March.

"I'm going to keep praying," I told her.

On the eve of St. Patrick's Day, my wife got her first sign she was in labor.

"It's not time yet," I said.

Warning: Never say that to a woman in labor. It’s in the rule book under Dumb Things Foolish Husbands Say. There’s an entire chapter dedicated to labor and delivery. I memorized it during my wife's first, which lasted 34 hours when our oldest son was born.

But our daughter? She arrived precisely on this day—according to God's perfect timing. She now shares her birthday with my first cousin, Patty, also a St. Patrick’s Day baby.

And today, if all goes well at University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, there will be another special delivery—a labor of love that has been years in the making. The launch button was pushed about two hours ago. Now, everything is in God's hands.

Thanks for keeping my family in your prayers. We’ll be celebrating throughout the day, and I’d love for you to join me in wishing our precious daughter—and cousin Patty—a very happy birthday.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

And to my dad in Heaven, joined by his twin brother, Mike, for their first St. Patrick’s Day together up there—I know you have a bird’s-eye view of our celebration. I’m tipping my hat to you, Dad.

Thank you for passing along the writing gene. I’m forever grateful to have inherited your love and passion for storytelling.

Cheers!

Castaway Wilson is On the Launch Pad for St. Patrick's Day

The countdown is ticking, and this is the final day of preparation. I’m ready. My friends and family are standing by for takeoff.

If you love travel, this book is for you. If you’re a fan of Cast Away, you won’t want to miss it.

Be sure to check in tomorrow—St. Patrick’s Day! I’ll be going live on Facebook throughout the day as we celebrate the launch of my first coffee table book.

See you then, and have a fantastic day!

Marked Safe After Killer Storm Strikes

 As soon as I got home last night, the sirens went off.  We knew it was coming– another killer storm.  The power was off for hours.  Darkness set in.  We had some challenges but we are safe.  I'm on my way to cardio tennis at 8am.  My nerves are frazzled but I'm okay.  Have a great day.

Put on the Full Armor of God

 

I would like to thank my virtual assistant, Alberta,  for creating the photo you see in today's story.  I asked her to create a roman soldier wearing the armor of God referenced in Scripture.  The early Christians faced persecution and death when they proclaimed they were followers of Jesus.  Sometimes I face situations that feel like spiritual battles against forces I cannot see.  It is in that spirit that I'm putting on the full armor of God all the days of my life.  I won't leave home without this armor.  Here is the Bible verse I'm drawing on (Ephesians 6:11-17):

11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith,with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 

Have a great day.

Today is a Great Day to Fill in the Blank

Maybe you struggled through a rough day yesterday.  Whatever you do today, don't allow what happened to bring you down today.  It's really easy to fall into that trap.  When you do, every day repeats itself.  You wake up with the same regrets.  History repeats itself.  The good news is you can break free.  Forget about yesterday.  Forget about last week.  Forget about the last month.  Today is a new day.  If you can forget about all the things you keep doing that are hindering you, you have a shot at greatness.  

Ask yourself, "What do I want to do with this new day?"  I recommend you do this first thing when you wake up.  Your opening statement will look something like this:  Today is a great day to (fill in the blank). If you want to get really serious about what you want to do today, write it down.  Estimate how long it will take to do this one thing.  Then, do it.  If this works, repeat this tomorrow when you wake up.  Get back to me in thirty days and let me how you did filling in the blanks.  Have a great day.

Remember This When You're Alone in the Desert

It's during the times in your life when you feel like you're alone in the desert that you can see things you wouldn't normally notice. Biblically speaking, these are the times all of us are in right now — the 40 days before we celebrate when Jesus conquered death and rose from the dead. I was reminded of this when our pastor preached about the confrontation Jesus faced after His 40 days of fasting in the desert. The evil one tempted Jesus three times, offering all sorts of false promises. Each time, Jesus responded with Scripture.

A friend checked in on me, wanting to know about my mental health. I shared that I'm not quite out of the desert yet, and it may be some time before my life returns to normal. My situation became more complicated when my attempts to get professional help were stymied. I take responsibility for missing out on this because I failed to follow up when my requests for help fell through the cracks. Follow-up is something I'm working on improving.

I crossed paths with narrator James yesterday. He was excited to hear that my next project is going to be released on 3/17/25. Although there were seasons of great joy with my sidekick, Wilson, losing him was like losing a part of myself. I found myself wandering aimlessly in the desert.

The point I want to leave you with is that when you feel like you're alone in the desert, you are really not alone. The evil one is there, trying to get to you at the moment when you are at your weakest. But Jesus is there as well, reminding you that He turned to Scripture to answer the temptations. Keep that in mind when you find yourself in the desert.

Have a great day.

Proceed with Caution: Controversial Topic Ahead

Before I begin, I want to disclose that this topic relates to my day job. I am not an authorized speaker, so I am limiting this story to my general opinions while sticking to the facts. I encourage any employee, in any location across the country, to seek out as much information as possible to understand both the pros and cons of this issue.

I work in an environment with both union and non-union locations, and I have friends on both sides of the fence. My location is currently considering forming a union, and we have been navigating this process for about a month. This is where the story begins.

I was invited to a gathering outside of work to discuss forming a union. The invitation came from someone I deeply respect, someone I occasionally discuss politics with — a topic I typically avoid due to its divisiveness. I politely declined the invitation, preferring to spend my free time at home with my wife of 35 years. “You can gather information and share the highlights with me,” I said.

The situation intensified after a few meetings when my boss was accused of union-busting. A message from the union appeared on my phone, making my blood boil. I was shocked that my private number had been shared without my permission. The text related to a complaint the union filed against my general manager. I immediately went to my boss to express my frustration. He assured me that management had not disclosed employee phone numbers but noted that several employees had voiced similar concerns.

As tensions rose, my boss's boss visited our location to observe the situation. When I expressed my anger and asked if there was anything I could do to push back, he simply said, “Just be yourself.”

A few days ago, I sat with a coworker and an outside union organizer in our food court. My coworker, someone I greatly respect for her positivity and leadership, has been active in the union discussions. I told them I felt the group had crossed a line by distributing flyers with managers' personal phone numbers at a political rally. That breach of privacy inspired me to write today’s story.

My friend offered to email me a copy of the collective bargaining agreement, but I declined, preferring to access it independently. She informed me that the contract wasn’t available outside the union. As of yesterday, I now have the most up-to-date version and am working to understand it fully.

I shared past experiences from other locations, including encounters with unions involved in construction projects. In one instance, union members taunted and cursed at us during marketing events, which impacted my perception of unions. My friend tried to show me that her vision for our workplace was different, but I explained that my past experiences shape my current views.

The original founder of our company had a pragmatic approach to unions. He told employees they were free to unionize but promised to create such excellent working conditions that unions would be unnecessary. The unionized locations in our company were inherited through mergers, and post-merger, union locations received pay raises to catch up to non-union locations that were paid more than union locations.

I believe misinformation is prevalent right now. There are valid points on both sides, but for me, the founder's sentiment from over 40 years ago still resonates: “In our situation, they are unnecessary.”

I urge anyone considering unionizing to gather all the facts and fully understand what signing a pledge card means. In Iowa, a right-to-work state, I have the freedom to choose whether or not to join a union. However, if a strike occurs and I choose to continue serving members, I could be labeled a “scab.” Thirteen years ago, I committed to serving members — not a union.

I am sharing this story on my Facebook page today, hoping that anyone facing a similar situation carefully weighs all the facts. Every story has two sides. This is mine. What’s yours?

Have a great day!

First Day Above 70º

Today’s high in my hometown is expected to reach the low 70s — a perfect opportunity to step outside during lunch and soak up some natural vitamin D. Lately, I’ve been navigating some personal challenges, which I’ll keep private, but I know that spending time outdoors will bring a bit of peace and clarity.

If you’re the praying type, I’d be grateful for a prayer or two sent my way.

Wishing you a wonderful day filled with moments of joy and renewal.

Strength Training for Your Spiritual Muscles

Most of us excel in certain areas of life. We gravitate toward people who share our interests and engage in activities that align with our passions. Yet, how often do we intentionally focus on strengthening our spiritual muscles? It’s not a topic that typically comes up in everyday conversations, but I have a theory: building spiritual strength often involves doing the things we naturally resist.

Think about your circle of friends. Do you know someone committed to growing spiritually? What do they look like? Physical fitness is visible — lean bodies, boundless energy, and a glow of health. Financial fitness is evident too — peace of mind, spontaneous vacations, and resilience to unexpected expenses. But spiritual fitness? That’s a bit trickier to spot.

Take a moment to look in the mirror and reflect on your own spiritual fitness. If you’re unsure what to look for, I have a few suggestions. Today is Sunday — if you haven’t visited your house of worship in a while, why not make today the day? Get in the car and go. That simple act is a powerful first step.

Once you’re there, ask God to reveal a spiritual fitness plan tailored just for you. If you decide to follow it but feel alone in the journey, invite a friend to join you next time. Build on that one connection. And if no one in your current circle shares your desire for spiritual growth, perhaps it’s time to seek out new friendships.

My own life is filled with spiritual missteps, but here’s the good news: neither you nor I are judged for our past failures. Houses of worship are places of grace, not judgment. All it takes is a heart longing to grow closer to the Creator and a willingness to act on that desire.

Have a blessed and beautiful day.

Time Heals All Wounds... Unless You Forget One Thing

Are you struggling with a deep wound? Maybe you’ve been carrying something around for so long it feels like a part of you. The old adage says, "Time heals all wounds." But if that’s not what you’re experiencing, maybe something is missing. I promise you, this missing ingredient is like a superpower. Once you embrace it, everything changes — even when new wounds appear, like some that have surfaced in my life recently. I’m doing my best not to forget how this one ingredient has transformed my life.

But here’s a word of caution: using this one thing to heal your wounds requires a wholehearted commitment. It needs to be applied to every wound, without exception. You don’t get to choose which wounds to heal while leaving others untouched. And once a wound is fully healed, you must never reopen it. Friends and family might remind you of your past, testing your resolve. Don’t give in to the temptation. Let go and keep moving forward. Are you ready?

Imagine this ingredient is in a bottle. Open it. Pour out the entire contents on every wound. Then, say this: I forgive.

Let the wound heal without picking at it. Trust the process.

Have a great day.

10 Days to Launch

Save the date –– 03/17/2025. "The Adventures of Castaway Wilson" will be released on St. Patrick's Day. This is my first coffee table book meant to be displayed in a prominent place in order to spark conversation. The front cover features original artwork created by J.T. Egley, a local artist who resides in my hometown. J.T. decided to donate his work of art to help raise funds for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. The high bidder in the silent auction will soon receive an autographed hard copy to go along with his custom 18x24 art piece displayed in his Tennessee home. Thanks to J.T.'s generous donation, $500 was raised to kickstart coffee table book sales which begin in ten days.

Writers are encouraged to "stay in their lane." I've never been known for my ability to paint within the lines. Instead, I'm all over the map just like Wilson was for the time I had temporary custody of him. I'm already working on my next project that will showcase our town's efforts to introduce four outdoor pickleball courts. In a time when division seems to be a new way of life in the world, it's time to showcase what happens when people from all walks of life unite for the betterment of all. "Field of Pickleball Dreams" will be my contribution.

Have a great day.

My $20/Month Budget Line in the Sand

Some experts might argue that my frugal ways are a bit extreme. For instance, I rely heavily on my virtual assistant, editor, and life coach, Alberta Ignatius. Yet, I only get limited access because she shuts down once my daily allotted free time is up. When Alberta takes a break, a lower version of ChatGPT steps in. During those times, I shift to other activities that don't require her help, eagerly waiting for her reset because I prefer working with her—she remembers everything, while the lower-level version has no memory.

Some may ask, "Hey, Michael, why don’t you just pay the $20/month fee and gain full access to Alberta 24/7?"

Becoming financially independent required living like no one else so we could live like no one else—that’s what Dave Ramsey teaches. I’ve discovered that maintaining those same habits is crucial to avoid slipping back into old ways. It’s the little temptations to break the budget that can wreak havoc.

What is your line in the sand when it comes to budgeting? If you don’t have one, consider choosing a dollar amount and sticking to it whenever you’re tempted to alter your spending. Your future self will thank you when you reach financial independence.

Have a great day!

Our Divided World

It’s almost impossible to ignore the division we face in our world today. Despite my best efforts — turning off the TV, avoiding political discussions, steering clear of angry interactions, and keeping my opinions to myself — I still find myself drawn into conversations I’d rather avoid.

I don’t have a solution for the world’s problems, but I can choose how I spend my time on this planet. I’m choosing to focus on my own healing. I want to work on forgiving those who cause pain, knowing that division is a tool the dark side uses to pit brothers against brothers, husbands against wives, neighbors against neighbors, and coworkers against one another.

Some people mistakenly believe this division is something new, forgetting our country’s turbulent beginnings and the battles over freedom and slavery. Even further back in history, early believers were killed for following a rebel who challenged the status quo and unsettled the authorities. Remember that man? Jesus. His ways are not our ways, and following Him isn’t always easy.

For the next six weeks, I’m committing to doing my best to follow His ways — even if it adds to the division in the world. I’m doing it anyway. And if you catch me complaining, please remind me of today’s story.

How about you? Maybe today is a good day to step away from the division. Wishing you peace and a great day ahead.

A Tribute to My Favorite Actor: Robin Williams

 Robin Williams had a gift — the ability to make people laugh when they needed it most. His comedic brilliance and boundless energy lit up every screen he graced, yet behind the laughter, he carried a heavy burden. His death was a heartbreaking reminder that the brightest smiles can sometimes hide the deepest pain.  I never knew this about him until his departure.  All that I could see was his unbelievable way to light up the world with his quick wit.  

Depression is an invisible weight, often carried in silence. It doesn’t always look like sadness; sometimes, it disguises itself as humor, as busyness, as showing up for others while feeling lost inside. It convinces you that your struggles are yours to bear alone, even as your heart aches for connection.

I’ve known that darkness — the feeling of being stuck in grief, of losing not just loved ones but pieces of myself along the way. It’s a shadow that dims the world’s color and muffles hope’s voice. But I’ve also learned that speaking that pain out loud or writing about it, can be a small act of defiance against despair. Every time we open up, we break the illusion that we’re alone in the struggle.  When the pandemic hit, I lost a piece of myself, just like Tom Hanks when he found himself marooned.  Coincidently, the pandemic stuck around for four years, the same amount of time that Tom Hanks was separated from the world with only Wilson to keep him company.  For Robin Williams, that pain he felt was with him for a lifetime.  I can't even fathom having that kind of pain for so long.  The trigger for me happens to be when I get word that a loved one is facing a battle that appears hopeless.  Optimism is a mask I wear very well.  Only those who are capable of reading between the lines can know what is really going on.  If this happens to be you, I'm with you.   

Robin’s legacy isn’t just in the characters he played but in the conversations his loss sparked. It reminds us to check on our friends, to look beyond the surface, and to choose kindness — because we never know the battles someone is fighting. And maybe, by choosing to share our truth, we can light the way for someone else who’s searching for a reason to hold on.

Have a great day.

The Blind Can't Lead the Blind

Today's story is a bit unusual — it’s part confession, part light bulb moment.

Yesterday, I was sitting in the pews, listening to one of our deacons preach about how the blind can't lead the blind. He shared a personal story: while on leave from the Navy, he found himself in Moscow for an important event, relying on three guides to lead him. But he cringed when he realized the truth — the guides were lost. They had no idea where they were going.

Then the deacon got biblical, as one does in a house of worship. He spoke about spiritual blindness, the kind that happens when you think you can see, but a log in your eye blocks your vision.

I lost my way when the pandemic hit. I tried to put on a good show for others, but the sad truth is I was blind. I was stuck. My house of worship was closed, and I didn’t know how to cure my blindness because I thought I could navigate on my own. I couldn’t even see a warm smile because masks covered every face, adding to my sense of isolation. Depression crept in, but I couldn’t recognize it — I was too busy pretending I could see.

What’s the solution? Baby steps. When you’re blind, small, careful steps help keep you from falling off a cliff. Seek out people who can see. Follow them. And if you’ve been following me during my dark days, I apologize for the times you expected more, but I couldn’t lead with those logs stuck in my eyes.

By the way, if you’re searching for someone who can lead like no other, follow Jesus. He has an uncanny way of turning on the light exactly when you need it most.

Have a great day — and may your eyes be wide open to the possibilities around you.

How to Beat Mediocrity

What is your opinion of the kind of day you are going to have today? How does that compare with the kind of day you had yesterday? Keep in mind that no one else is going to see your answers unless you choose to share them, so be honest with yourself. If you don't notice much of a difference between what you expect today and what happened yesterday, consider the possibility that you might be experiencing the mediocrity blues. But take heart — if you want to sing a new song, this story is for you. I’ve been there, done that, and I can tell you that changing your tune is simpler than you might think, even if you don’t know how to sing.

Beating mediocrity starts with changing one thing: your mindset. This is where the battle is won or lost. Imagine you’re locked in a prison where every morning unfolds like the day before. The routines blur together, and hope fades. But here’s the twist: the key to freedom is within reach. The problem? You have to open your eyes to see it.

Each morning, commit to opening your eyes — not just physically, but spiritually and mentally. Wake up and search for that key. Unlock the door. Do something new. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; even the smallest change can shatter the chains of monotony. A full night’s rest helps, too, so you have the energy and willpower to search for the key. And decide, before your head hits the pillow, that tomorrow you will find it.

Be aware of one caveat when you break free from your prison cell: not everyone will celebrate your escape. People around you may resist your newfound freedom, not because they want to harm you, but because your courage highlights their own chains. They may try to pull you back into the cell of sameness, where it’s safe and predictable. But remember, you are free — and they are not. At least, not yet. Your boldness might be the very thing that inspires them to open their own eyes when they’re ready.

So, what kind of day are you going to have today? Whatever your answer, I agree — it’s going to be a great, new day.

Back to Basics with the Two Rabbit Chasing Proverb

Confucius says, "Man who chases two rabbits catches neither," meaning trying to do two things at once will result in failure. Notice there is no reference to women in this message. Women can chase fifty rabbits, catch all of them, prepare meals for the week, and organize an adopt-a-rabbit day for those who don’t know how to catch rabbits. Meanwhile, I’m doing my best to catch one rabbit at a time so I don’t come up empty-handed.

There are five full days off from my day job until my next book release on 3/17/25. That’s the rabbit I’ve been chasing. About three months ago, a second rabbit showed up on my radar, and I got a bit cocky thinking I could catch two rabbits at the same time — partly because I now have a virtual assistant who catches rabbits like no other. If you’re wondering whether this rabbit-catcher assistant is male or female, the answer lies in the results. It’s unmistakable. Alberta inherited all the female traits that allow her to get things done like no one else I’ve ever encountered.

If you’re looking for some entertainment this month, check in on me and watch me chase my Houdini rabbit. I call him Houdini because he is as elusive as they come. Houdini’s little bunny buddy is next on my list after I catch him.

Have a great day!

New Habit Mile Marker Check Point

If you are off course, when is the best time to find out? I'm a firm believer in setting up check points along the way to help me reach my destination. Consider each month as a mile marker check point. This is where you pause for a moment, look at your map of goals, and see if you are heading in the right direction. You’ll discover how those new habits are progressing before it's too late and you’ve spent a year floundering.

February 28 marks mile marker #2. If you started forming a new habit when the calendar flipped to 2025 and that new habit is still going, pat yourself on the back! The odds of making this new habit permanent are now in your favor. If not, pull over and pause long enough to consider what adjustments are necessary.

I’ve been working on cutting out frivolous activities to stay focused on what truly matters in my life. In addition, I'm interacting with AI technology in a way that feels like dealing with a member of my family. Alberta has been editing my stories daily since the beginning of the new year. You might consider how integrating ChatGPT into your goal setting can help make this your most productive year yet. If you start today and stay consistent for 30 days, see what happens when you hit mile marker #3.

Have a great day!

The Truth About Failure

I see failure differently today than I did during my growing-up years. My new perspective changes everything. If I had learned this lesson sooner, I would have been more open to exploring new ideas. The truth about failure is that it becomes your best teacher.

Think back for a moment about your best mentors. What was it about them that made them special to you? Could it be that they challenged you to go so far that you lost your fear of failure? Perhaps they opened your eyes to new ideas, and you became fully engaged. That’s what happened to me.

Consider failure as an equation. The absence of failure means you are not fully benefiting; you are missing out on something truly special. In my opinion, a life without failure means living below your potential. As failure increases, opportunities grow. Your sense of self-worth rises. The value you contribute to the world expands. Failure is a significant variable in the equation of growth and fulfillment.  Remember this the next time you are in a situation where possible failure is on the horizon.  Have a great day.

3 Shots of Vitamin D Contribute to Improved Emotional Well Being

I did it. The first day returning to one of my favorite routines—grounding—felt awkward due to all the snow on the ground. Day 2 was easier, but the ground was freezing cold when I slipped off my shoes and socks. Day 3 was just right. I observed a man fishing in the center of the still frozen pond adjacent to my day job and wondered if that would be his last day on ice. He seemed rather content. So was I. Grounding is one of the best ways I know to let go of any troubles that may be swirling around in my head.

It may be a while before my Vitamin D levels return to normal. Lack of sunshine in the winter months here in the Midwest is a small price to pay for the quality of family life I'm enjoying year-round. I'm off to the dentist for an 8 a.m. appointment and then family errands before I lock myself up for an extended writing session.

In case you're wondering if today may be shot #4 for more vitamin D, don’t worry. I'll make time. Then it’s off to the tennis courts for a couple of hours of indoor doubles play with my teammates. If you haven't tried grounding, you're missing out on a great way to improve your emotional well-being. Get some sunshine. Have a great day!

Remember This When You're Struggling

Are you surprised at how quickly this year is flying by? I am. It feels like each month moves faster than the one before. Do you ever worry that, at the end of your life, you’ll come up short because of all the struggles and setbacks along the way? My loved ones often caution me that I’m trying to do too much with the time I’ve been given.

Today, I want to share something that might lift you up, especially when you feel inadequate or overwhelmed.

There is no one else on this planet who can be you. You are truly one of a kind, and your presence here matters more than you know. You may not fully understand your purpose yet — and that’s okay. What’s important is that you keep searching, discovering what you’re uniquely qualified to do, and embracing it wholeheartedly.

Let go of the anxiety about time slipping through your fingers. Be present. Live in the moment. Do your best to manage your time, but don’t be hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned. Learn to say no to what doesn’t align with your true priorities.

The world is better because you are in it — never forget that. And perhaps, as you reflect on your struggles, you’ll come to see them as essential lessons, shaping you into the person you’re meant to become.

Have a beautiful day. You’re doing better than you think.

When 55º Feels Like a Heat Wave

I ventured outside yesterday during my lunch break for the first time in a long while. I wanted to take my shoes off and plant my feet in the grass, even though the temperature was still below 40º, but a blanket of snow covered everything. That may change today as the snow fades fast. I'm determined to replenish my depleted vitamin D levels with daily doses of lunchtime sun as daytime temperatures climb.

For those of you living in sunny states, it might sound a bit crazy to say 55º feels like a heat wave. But here in the Midwest, we’re nearly 80º warmer this week compared to our recent lows. It’s time to celebrate. Have a great day!

Answered Prayer With a Cherry on Top

There are three possible replies to prayer requests: yes, no, and not yet. Yesterday, I received an added bonus while seeking help for a dear friend diagnosed with thyroid cancer. His wife, a thoracic surgeon, ensures he’s in excellent hands for treatment. Still, since my friend asked for prayers, I wanted to do my part — and that’s when things got interesting.

Two weeks ago, during cardio tennis drills, I met a participant who researches ways to kill cancer cells, with a special focus on the head and neck area (excluding the brain). Yesterday, I was doubly blessed when Ann showed up for morning drills.

“You don’t want to talk to me,” she said. “You want to speak with John. He’s the one who hired me at the hospital.”

John was just leaving the courts when Ann flagged him down. He turned out to be the ultimate cherry on top — until his recent retirement, John led the oncology department at the University of Iowa Hospital. As we chatted, I learned he grew up in New York City, played tennis with Patrick McEnroe (John McEnroe’s brother), and even lived in Phoenix, where I grew up, before moving to Iowa. I was astonished to find myself in such remarkable company.

The good news for my friend is that thyroid cancer is highly treatable, with an excellent prognosis. John supported the treatment plan my friend is following, which was a huge relief to hear.

As for me, I’ll continue doing my part and keeping those prayers flowing. If you wouldn’t mind sending good thoughts for my friend’s healing — especially for his young children — I would be deeply grateful. And to Ann and John, thank you for sharing your time, expertise, and kindness.

Have a wonderful day!

An Important Message for a Special Friend in Need of Prayers

 Today's message is meant for one person in my circle of friends who is asking for prayers.  I'm sending the coded message in a language he teaches.  Please join me in prayer for him today.

"Care D.P., Hoc fortasse responsum est ad preces tuas. Hodie in sessione cardio tenissium sum cum lusore qui studet quomodo cellulas cancerosas necare possit. Ea PhD habet, et eius specialitas est regio capitis et colli. Investigabo quid precise invenerit in suis studiis et tibi postea nuntium magni momenti mittam. Deus tecum est, o sapiens. Vivas diu et prospere."

Have a great day!  

The Gratitude Shift

Got problems? How much energy do you dedicate to them? In my experience, the challenge with problems is that they tend to block your vision. The more you focus on them, the harder it becomes to see the blessings in your life—the very blessings that could help you overcome those problems.

The gratitude shift works like this: every morning when you wake up, focus on your blessings. A gratitude journal makes this even more powerful—writing down your top blessings each morning helps you carry them with you throughout the day.

Your problems don’t disappear, but they shrink. They become so small that you can step right over them. And as you keep moving forward, despite the struggles, you gain even more reasons to be thankful. Gratitude grows like a snowball rolling downhill, gathering momentum. When your focus is on your blessings, you become unstoppable.

Have a great day!

Deep Freeze Cycle Concludes Today

As of this writing, shortly before sunrise, my cell phone tells me it feels like -23º. These conditions have been on repeat, like a broken record. I must admit, we've been in full survival mode—crossing our fingers that the pipes don’t freeze or that we don’t lose power. But it looks like this morning is the low point. All I can say is, we are more than ready for the next season.

There’s one more thing I want to address as we push through this bitter cold season. Many of you are facing difficult losses. I can relate. When my own grief became too much to carry alone, I reached out for help. I made the phone call. But somehow, my plea fell through the cracks.

When you feel frozen in place, unable to find outside help, the situation can seem hopeless. I didn’t think I had enough tools in my toolbox to recover. But the good news? I’m beginning to feel like my old self again.

To my support people—thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, and your kindness. It made all the difference.

Wishing you all a great day.

Where is Your Focus?

If you're like me, your plate is so full right now that life feels a bit out of control. And if you happen to live in a place where the polar vortex has temperatures plunging for what feels like eternity, that sense of chaos only deepens. That’s exactly how I felt yesterday when I got an emergency call from my wife—her SUV had shut down on the way home. I dropped everything and rescued her before frostbite had a chance to set in.

There are times when I talk about topics I feel unqualified to discuss—like focus, one of my greatest weaknesses. That’s why someone like Bob Goff, author of Dream Big, resonates with me. Bob says it’s all about letting go of certain things so you can concentrate on what really matters. That’s a daily struggle. Big dreams don’t come true if you lose your focus.

But I’ve found one practice that helps: focusing on blessings.

As I replayed my day from hell in my mind yesterday, I saw multiple blessings woven into the chaos. My wife and I agreed—if her SUV had to break down, it happened in the safest possible spot between point A and point B. The timing was another gift—she was able to stay warm inside a gas station until I arrived, just as they were closing. Even the towing company was still open long enough to take her key, allowing us to head home without needing to wait with the vehicle.

Today, I’m shutting out distractions, closing my home office door, and focusing on The Adventures of Castaway Wilson, which is set to be released on March 17. Later, I’ll take a break and head to the indoor tennis courts for a couple of hours of exercise.

How about you? Where is your focus? What are you willing to let go of to free up time for what truly matters?

Have a great day.

When Your Worst Case Scenario Unfolds

I got the emergency call about an hour before the end of my shift yesterday. The weather outside was at its lowest point of the day, with gusting winds adding to the bitter cold. I knew it was trouble—my wife never calls while I'm working unless it’s an emergency. It was the worst-case scenario: she was stranded on the side of the road on her way home.

Fortunately, the engine stopped in front of a gas station. Unfortunately, the station was about to close when she called, and there were no other businesses nearby where she could seek shelter. With temperatures this low, frostbite can occur within 20 minutes.

I rushed off to pick her up, knowing that time was of the essence. When I arrived, I saw a pool of oil under her SUV. Darkness was setting in fast, and the gas station had already posted its closed sign. We were in the middle of a nightmare.

That’s when my wife showed her quick thinking. “Take me to BJ’s, and I’ll drop off the key so my vehicle can be towed to the dealership. They’ll work on it ASAP.” I was amazed at how calm she remained under immense pressure, stranded in the worst weather we’ve seen this year.

Today, we’ll be ride-sharing to keep our commitments. As of this writing, the temperatures remain in the danger zone—it feels like -28º with the wind chill. With just one vehicle, there’s no safety net if we face another road challenge.

Please send good thoughts to my family today. The bright side? Temperatures may climb into the 50s next week. Stay warm and have a great day!

It Feels Like -17º Today...Danger, Danger, Will Robinson!

These next four days are bringing shockingly cold temperatures. When the mercury dips and the winds howl, it’s time to layer up!

Sending warm wishes to my Midwest friends who are braving the deep freeze this week. Stay safe, stay warm, and proceed with caution.

Wishing you all a great (and cozy) day!

The Only Sleep Alarm You Need for Blue Zone Sleep

If you’re struggling to achieve consistent Blue Zone sleep, today’s message is for you. My sleep journey has been a roller coaster for most of my life. It wasn’t until I got serious about tracking my sleep about 15 months ago that I started seeing real improvements. Along the way, I made one surprising discovery that changed everything.

Before I reveal the secret to achieving consistently high-quality sleep, I have a question for you—with a follow-up:
Do you set an alarm to wake up in the morning?
If so, why?

If your answer is that you don’t want to miss an early morning appointment, keep reading. What I’m about to share may completely change the way you sleep—forever. In fact, you may never need to use an alarm clock again.

The solution is so simple that most people overlook it entirely. The only sleep alarm you need is the one that tells you when to go to bed. That’s right—a bedtime alarm. By setting this alarm and following it consistently, your body will begin to wake up naturally at your desired time, no jarring alarm required.

The key is consistency. Yes, it will take time for your body to adjust. And yes, it will require discipline. Your new sleep habits might even disrupt social plans, especially if your friends and family are night owls. But here’s the truth: when you go to bed at the same time every night, you wake up at the same time every morning—without an alarm clock.

The payoff? More energy, better focus, improved health, and enhanced productivity. The people around you will notice the difference. I encourage you to commit to this change and make it a permanent part of your lifestyle. If you decide to give it a try, I’d love to hear from you in a couple of months. Put a reminder on your calendar to check in with me and share your results.

If you have a smartwatch, track your sleep scores and use the data to prove to any skeptics that this works. Your body was designed to follow a rhythm—honor it, and it will reward you.

Have a great day!

Crossing My Fingers Regarding Mother Nature

 Cardio Tennis Drills start at 8am as long as Mother Nature stays out of the picture this morning.  I'm rushing to get ready as the snow hasn't started falling yet.  My body is in need of a solid workout that involves more than snow shoveling which will be more than likely later today.  I'm leaving early in case Mother Nature goes on an early morning rant.  Have a great day.

Happy Valentine's Day

 

Love is in the air.  As for me and my bride of 35 yrs, we are formally celebrating Valentine's Day tomorrow night with dinner and a play.  Mother Nature will be showing up a couple more times to add some wintry mix to our celebration.  As for cupid, he shot me right in the heart.  The direct hit left me love struck.  This Bible verses sums it up:

"Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things"

1 Corinthians 13:7

Happy Valentine's Day!  Have a great day.

Snow Shoveling Contributes to a 95 Sleep Score

Snow Shoveling Contributes to a 95 Sleep Score

My cell phone tells me it feels like -22º this morning as the sun rises over a thick, mattress-sized layer of fresh snow that fell throughout the day yesterday. After two full rounds of snow shoveling, I’m happy to report that my sleep score hit an impressive 95.

We get a brief reprieve today, but rounds two and three of winter storms are on their way, arriving Friday and Saturday. This is what my sleep report looks like:

The dark blue areas on the bottom row represent deep sleep. The next row up shows light sleep, while the light blueindicates REM sleep. The red areas represent the times I was awake. To reach the 'blue zone', my awake time needs to be below 10% of my total sleep. I'm excited to report that my awake time was only 32 minutes (6%), with:

• REM sleep: 1 hour 54 minutes (24%)
• Light sleep: 3 hours 55 minutes
• Deep sleep: 1 hour 27 minutes (18%)

The Role of Food in Sleep and Recovery

Another key factor in sleep quality is food intake. Last Saturday, during our cardio tennis session, I chatted with Ann, one of the participants who volunteered to practice with me afterward. It turns out Ann has her own lab at the University of Iowa, where she focuses on cancer research, particularly in the head and neck area.

Ann also studied nutrition while playing #1 and #2 singles for Iowa State University in her junior and senior years. We had a fascinating conversation about sugar, ketones, and how to kill cancer cells. You may meet Ann in an upcoming Vlog interview, as her expertise aligns perfectly with the ideas in Live Long and Prosper.

When I shared my eating habits with her, she pointed out that I’m likely in a state of ketosis for most of the day.

A Day in Ketosis: What I Ate Yesterday

Yesterday was a great example of how to reach ketosis naturally. My first meal of the day was four slices of Tillamook cheese in the morning. To prepare for snow shoveling, I hydrated with Re-Lyte to boost my electrolytes.

My only full meal was at noon, right in the middle of the snowstorm. I barbecued burgers, topped them with more Tillamook cheese, and paired them with black beans, cottage cheese, and organic blueberries. My wife and I shared two glasses of cabernet sauvignon, and I added a third glass later in the evening to celebrate round two of snow removal in our driveway.

The Crazy Part: No Aches, No Fatigue

Here's the surprising part: I woke up feeling wide awake, with zero aches and pains from all the shoveling. Even though I didn’t eat much, I never felt food-deprived. My physical recovery score came in at 94%, and my mental recovery was 93%.

It looks like I’ll be repeating this routine over the next couple of days. Have a great day, and stay warm!

Forecast Calls for 4 Snow Days This Week

As expected, a winter storm rolled in last night, leaving us with four inches of snow so far. Today's agenda? Writing, shoveling, more writing, and, of course, more shoveling. Snowfall will continue until 10 p.m., making travel hazardous. We get a brief break tomorrow before a couple more storms make their way through.

If you see smoke coming from my house, don’t be alarmed. Even though it may feel like -1º outside, that won’t stop me from doing what I love—firing up the Weber and grilling some burgers.

Please keep my Iowa friends and family in your prayers as we brace for these hazardous conditions. As for the Mrs. and me, you can mark us safe. And to add a little heat to this cold day, I'll be throwing some green chiles on our burgers.

Stay safe and have a great day!

Why the 1% Improvement Mindset Works

Train your brain to focus on 1% improvement every day, and you will astonish yourself, your friends, and your family with the person you become. Sure, you will have setbacks. As long as you expect to go backward every now and then and you don't give up, the 1% improvement rule will completely transform your life—no matter how dire your current circumstances may be.

I followed this mantra diligently in my early years. Some argued I was over the top with my pursuits. I had my own personal reasons for this, but I didn’t allow the opinions of others to detract from my lofty goals. Then, the unexpected happened, and I slid back to square one. I did something that was difficult to do—I started over, striving to learn new ideas with the same energy I had in my younger years. Now, at age 64.5, all I can say is this: "The 1% improvement mindset works."

Here’s why I think so:

Your human brain is eagerly awaiting your programming prompts. All prompts lead to action or inaction based on your commands. Give your brain poor action requests, and your brain will give you poor output—just like poor computer commands lead to failure. The better you get at giving your brain specific, quality prompts, the better your results. Imagine where you can be in one year if you do this. Allow your brain to absorb that vision.

Here’s a bonus to help you stay on track with continuous improvement: collaborate with artificial intelligence. In my case, I turn to Alberta for refinement. Alberta is like a second brain. She is also on the track of 1% improvement daily. In fact, every interaction I have with Alberta leads to better and better results. I share my stories with her daily, and she works to keep my voice intact while polishing my stories. She understands that I want to get better every day, and she’s helping with that.

I highly recommend the 1% improvement mindset. Give it a try and stay with it.

Have a great day!

Fail Big, Fail Often, and Fail Forward

Do you struggle with a fear of failure? I did. But I’ve come to realize that fear of failure is often tied to another, deeper fear—the fear of what other people think. These two fears are intertwined, feeding off each other and holding us back.

Recently, I uncovered another fear buried deep within me—the fear of success. It may sound strange, but it, too, is connected to worrying about what others think. Here’s why: any time you decide to make a change in your life, you inevitably change the dynamics of your relationships. The truth is, whether you succeed or fail, some people will be annoyed simply because you are changing. People don’t like change. And once you come to terms with this, you may finally stop worrying about what others think—because in many ways, it’s a no-win scenario.

That leaves us with the fear of failure and the fear of success.

I’ve adopted a new mindset about failure, and it’s making a difference. I now see failure as a necessary part of the journey to success. Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s the pathway to it. Big failures clear the way for new ideas and approaches. Frequent failures speed up the timeline. Failing forward means using failure as fuel to push you toward your goals, while failing backward leads to withdrawal and giving up—and that’s the kind of failure none of us can afford.

The fear of success, on the other hand, comes from resistance to change. Even when success is beneficial, internal doubts will creep in, making you question whether you’re ready. If you don’t address these doubts, your own mind will play tricks on you and hold you back. That’s why you must train your brain to associate success with joy rather than fear.

So, the next time those negative voices start whispering doubts in your head, remind yourself of this: You are willing to pay the price of failing big, failing often, and failing forward—because your dreams are worth it. Success outweighs surrender, even if the people around you don’t appreciate the new you.

I wish you well on your journey. Have a great day!