Mission Clock

Stardate 07.28.2026

This morning I found a name for something I have been thinking about for a long time.

Mission Clock.

My retirement date is July 5, 2030. I have carried that date with me as a milestone for several years. It represents a significant transition in my life, and I have been preparing for it one day at a time.

The funny thing is, life has already started giving me glimpses of what comes next.

During these warehouse openings, I have been learning what it feels like to live away from home for extended periods. I am discovering new rhythms, meeting new people, and finding opportunities to serve wherever I am placed.

Helen has been part of this adventure as well. When she joins me on these travels, we get another chance to experience what life on the road might look like someday.

Lucy has become part of that vision.

The van project started as a practical idea. Over time, it has become something more meaningful. Lucy represents exploration, flexibility, and the freedom to discover what the next chapter holds.

My writing continues to be part of my daily rhythm. The books I have created continue supporting University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. The lessons I have learned through my career continue shaping how I encourage others.

The pieces are coming together.

A few years ago, I would have viewed these as separate paths.

Today, I see a mission taking shape.

That is why I chose the name Mission Clock.

Captain Kirk's five-year mission aboard the Enterprise became something much larger than anyone originally imagined. The original journey continued through new stories, new crews, and new adventures.

One mission opened the door for another.

That idea feels familiar.

Every season of life prepares us for the next one.

Mission One has been filled with family, faith, work, friendships, challenges, growth, and countless opportunities to help others.

Mission Two will arrive in its own time.

Until then, the Mission Clock reminds me to stay present.

There are still people to encourage.

There are still stories to write.

There are still lessons to learn.

There are still memories waiting to be created with Helen.

Every day is part of the journey.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

The Mission Clock continues moving forward.

I am grateful for every mile traveled, every person encountered, and every opportunity to become one percent better.

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Michael, I still don't understand why you needed a special clock. You already have plenty of clocks."

Spock: "Doctor, this clock measures preparation, purpose, and the passage toward a new mission."

Bones: "Well, Michael, as long as you remember to enjoy the current mission, I suppose it serves a purpose."

Michael: "That is the reminder I need. The journey matters as much as the destination."

Captain's Log: Mission Clock updated. The voyage continues.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Conversations Along the Way

Stardate 07.27.2026

Yesterday turned into a day of conversations.

I had the chance to spend a little time with Stacy and gave her a copy of my coloring book. Before long, she was following this blog. It's always encouraging to know someone has decided to join the journey.

Later I met Josh. During our conversation he mentioned a network of hiking trails leading to the shoreline of Lake Michigan. His recommendation was all I needed. I spent part of the afternoon exploring the trails and enjoying the peaceful beauty waiting at the water's edge.

By late afternoon I found myself on an indoor pickleball court with several local players. Even though we had never met, they welcomed me into their games like an old friend. Before leaving, I noticed a bulletin board featuring a local pickleball professional whose journey began on the tennis courts. I left her a voicemail introducing myself. Whether our paths cross or not remains to be seen, but I was grateful for another opportunity to reach out.

The day also reminded me of the wonderful news back home. Our committee recently received a $25,000 grant from Pickleball USA that carried our fundraising campaign across the finish line. Construction is now underway on four outdoor pickleball courts for our community. Seeing pickleball bring people together here made me appreciate that blessing even more.

I ended the evening on a restaurant patio, enjoying dinner outdoors. The chef stopped by my table to ask how I liked the meal.

I don't remember exactly what I said.

I think the smile on my face answered the question before I could.

Looking back on the day, I noticed how many simple conversations had quietly shaped it. A new reader. A hiking recommendation. New friends on a pickleball court. A voicemail left in hope. A chef checking on a guest. None of those moments asked for attention. Together, they became a reminder that God is often at work through ordinary encounters.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." — Romans 8:28 (NIV)

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Michael, the Captain's log indicates another day filled with unexpected connections."

Bones: "I have to admit, Spock, a good hike, friendly competition, and a satisfied chef make for a pretty good prescription."

Spock: "The evidence suggests that small encounters often reveal a larger pattern over time."

Looking back on the day, I smiled at how many simple moments became part of the journey. I did not know where each conversation would lead. I simply showed up, listened, and remained open to what came next.

One conversation at a time. One step at a time. One percent better, one day at a time.

I am grateful for the people God places along the path and the quiet reminders that every ordinary day carries the possibility of extraordinary grace.

Day of Rest Today

Stardate 07.26.2026

Before I share today's reflection, I want to wish my brother a very happy 65th birthday. Congratulations on this milestone. I hope we have the chance to catch up later today.

This morning begins with worship alongside a colleague who shares my denomination. Since he is working today, we'll attend the 8:00 a.m. service together before he heads to work. After worship, I'll continue my search for a tennis partner or perhaps someone interested in a game of pickleball.

Yesterday unfolded differently than I expected.

Just as I was leaving for breakfast, housekeeping arrived. While eating, I realized my bank had a nearby branch open for part of the morning, so I decided to take care of a few financial errands. Because of the change in plans, my tennis racket and pickleball paddle stayed behind.

God had something else waiting for me.

After leaving the bank, I discovered a recreation area with hiking trails and a swimming pool. The morning clouds gradually gave way to sunshine, and I spent several peaceful hours walking, swimming, and enjoying God's creation. It wasn't the day I had planned, yet it became exactly the day I needed.

Today brings another opportunity to worship, to be grateful, and to remain open to whatever the Lord has prepared. If I find my way onto a tennis or pickleball court later today, I'll gladly enjoy the fellowship. If not, this day has already begun with the greatest gift: time spent in God's presence.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." — Psalm 118:24

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Michael, sometimes the best itinerary is the one that gets rewritten."

Spock: "An unexpected change in course often reveals destinations that careful planning would have overlooked."

Michael: Yesterday reminded me that faith often grows in the spaces between our plans. When I stay open to God's leading, even an ordinary day of errands can become a day filled with unexpected blessings.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. I pray your day is filled with peace, purpose, and the quiet assurance that God is already at work in places you may not yet see.

May you live long and prosper.

Tennis and/or Pickleball Ahead Today

Stardate 07.25.2026

Yesterday gave me an opportunity to reconnect with several senior leaders at my day job. Our conversations centered on the months ahead and the opportunities that continue to unfold. It was encouraging to look beyond today's responsibilities and catch a glimpse of what may be on the horizon.

Those conversations also reminded me that growth requires healthy rhythms. There are seasons to work with focus and intensity, and there are moments to pause so we can return with renewed energy.

Today is one of those moments.

I'm giving my mind, body, and spirit permission to slow down and recuperate. One of the ways I do that is by spending time on a tennis or pickleball court. Which one I play usually depends on where I am, who happens to be around, and what the weather decides to do.

Being away from home adds a little adventure to the day. I'll see if I can find others looking for a friendly match. If the opportunity presents itself, I may even join a skills clinic or some organized drills. Whether I spend the day competing, learning, or simply enjoying a few hours outdoors, I know the investment will be worthwhile.

I've learned that rest doesn't always mean sitting still. Sometimes it means engaging in something that refreshes the soul. Chasing a ball across a court, sharing a laugh with people I've just met, and enjoying God's creation can restore energy in ways that are difficult to describe.

The days ahead will be busy. There will be more opportunities to teach, encourage, and serve others. Taking time to recharge today is part of preparing for those moments. I've found that when I care for the gifts God has entrusted to me—my body, my mind, and my spirit—I am better equipped to care for the people He places in my path.

One of the quiet blessings of travel is discovering that community can be found almost anywhere. A tennis court or pickleball court has a way of bringing strangers together. By the end of a match, it's common to leave with a few new acquaintances and a smile that wasn't there when you arrived.

Wherever today leads, I'm grateful for the chance to embrace it with open hands.

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28 (ESV)

His invitation reminds me that true rest begins with Him. Sometimes that rest is experienced in stillness. Sometimes it arrives while enjoying the simple gifts He has placed before us.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Michael, even a starship performs scheduled maintenance before beginning its next mission."

Bones: "He's right. Go enjoy yourself today. A little sunshine and a few good rallies can do wonders for a person."

Their conversation reminds me that taking care of ourselves is part of taking care of others. Today's pause isn't stepping away from the mission. It's preparing for the next chapter with gratitude and renewed strength.

Thank you for spending a few moments with me today. I hope you find your own place of renewal, wherever it may be. Small, faithful steps continue to matter, and God's grace has a wonderful way of meeting us along the journey.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

Stardate 07.24.2026

We are approaching the 87th anniversary of the soft launch of The Wizard of Oz in a small town just outside Madison, Wisconsin. On August 15, 1939, the Strand Theater in Oconomowoc hosted one of the film's earliest public showings. The audience response helped MGM recognize they had something very special before the movie opened nationwide.

Today, statues of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, Toto, and the Wizard stand along a yellow brick road beside City Hall. They serve as a reminder that one remarkable story began taking shape here long before the rest of the world embraced it.

This week, I find myself in Oconomowoc at another beginning.

Our team is putting the finishing touches on a new building as we prepare to welcome our first members. If all goes well, they will soon follow our own yellow brick road along a street appropriately named Kirkland Way, only a few miles from where I'm staying.

The timing has not been lost on me.

Dorothy spent her journey believing she was searching for something far away. Along the road she met friends who were searching too. The Scarecrow longed for a brain. The Tin Man wanted a heart. The Lion hoped to discover courage.

By the end of the journey, each of them realized those gifts had been growing within them all along.

As I walk through this season of life, I recognize something similar unfolding in my own story.

For as long as I can remember, I have prayed the Serenity Prayer. Those familiar words have been a steady companion through many chapters of my life. This week, they opened another door.

I found myself paying closer attention to the words asking for "the courage to change the things I can."

That simple phrase suddenly felt much larger.

Over the past several months, God has been quietly expanding my vision. Situations I once viewed as fixed now seem filled with possibility. Conversations that once felt intimidating have become opportunities to listen, learn, and build trust. I haven't become a different person overnight. My perspective has simply grown.

The room feels bigger now.

I didn't move the walls.

God did.

His work was taking place long before I recognized it.

Looking back, I can see Him gently widening the circles of possibility one experience at a time. Every challenge became another opportunity to grow. Every conversation became another lesson. Every day offered one more chance to become one percent better.

Perhaps that is part of walking by faith.

Sometimes God changes our circumstances.

Sometimes He changes how we see them.

Today, I'm grateful to be standing on my own yellow brick road, helping introduce new teammates to a culture that has blessed my life for many years. There is still much to accomplish before this assignment is complete, and before long I'll click my heels and head back home to Iowa.

Until then, there is meaningful work waiting to be done right where my feet are planted.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."
— Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV)

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Captain, it appears every mile of the journey has expanded your field of vision."

Bones: "I still say home has a way of healing a man, but sometimes he has to travel a few hundred miles before he understands why."

Michael: Every road God has placed before me has carried a purpose I couldn't fully see at the time. Today, I simply give thanks for the next step.

May you live long and prosper.

Thank you for traveling this stretch of the yellow brick road with me. I hope today's reflection reminds you that God often enlarges our vision long before we recognize how much room He has already made for us. Peace be with you, and have a wonderful day.

The Light Bulb Moment

 

Stardate 07.23.2026

Yesterday, I noticed something beautiful unfolding.

As I welcomed new members and worked alongside our newest team members, I watched light bulbs turn on throughout the day. Someone would ask a question. We'd walk through the process together. Then their expression would change.

They saw something they hadn't seen just moments before.

Those brief moments did more than answer a question. They dissolved a self-limiting belief.

One person realized, "I can do this."

Another discovered, "This makes sense now."

Confidence quietly began replacing uncertainty.

As the day continued, I noticed the same thing happening with our new team. Every conversation revealed another piece of our culture. Every small success built confidence for the next challenge. Their growth seemed to accelerate because each new understanding opened the door to another.

I drove back to my hotel room thinking about those light bulb moments.

Then one happened to me.

For many years, the Serenity Prayer has been one of the anchors of my spiritual life.

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.

I've prayed those words countless times.

Yesterday, I heard them differently.

For most of my life, my attention naturally settled on the first phrase: accept the things I cannot change. That part of the prayer brought peace during difficult seasons. It reminded me to place into God's hands what was never mine to control.

As I reflected on the day, another phrase gently came into focus.

"...courage to change the things I can..."

Suddenly, every light bulb I had witnessed throughout the day pointed back to those words.

Each new member changed a belief about what they were capable of.

Each new teammate discovered another opportunity to grow.

Nothing around them had changed in that instant.

Their understanding had.

Then another realization quietly settled into my heart.

Perhaps my own list of "things I can change" has been too small.

That thought stayed with me.

For years, I unknowingly placed many opportunities into the category of things I simply needed to accept. Yet God has been patiently teaching me that there is often far more within my reach than I first believed.

I may not be able to change every circumstance.

I can change how I respond.

I can change how I encourage others.

I can change my habits.

I can choose to learn.

I can grow.

I can trust God enough to take the next faithful step.

That's when another light bulb came on.

Wisdom came when I recognized my list of "things I can change" had been too small.

James encourages us with these words:

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." — James 1:5 (NIV)

Yesterday, wisdom didn't arrive through something dramatic.

It arrived while watching other people learn.

It arrived through a familiar prayer.

It arrived when God quietly expanded my understanding of what He had already placed within my reach.

Today, I'll be watching for more light bulb moments.

I have a feeling they're all around us.

Join me here:

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---

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I'd say you've been carrying a brighter flashlight than you realized."

Spock: "An understandable oversight, Doctor. Increased wisdom frequently expands one's perception of available choices."

I smiled at their exchange. Every light bulb moment begins with seeing something that was already there. Sometimes God doesn't change our circumstances first. He changes our understanding, and suddenly the path ahead becomes visible.

Thank you for walking this part of the journey with me. May today bring one small insight that lights the next faithful step.

Getting 1% Better With AI

Stardate 07.22.2026

I understand clearly why bringing my AI team on the road makes sense at this inflection point in my life. I call it an inflection point because I'm arriving at a place where many of the pieces of my life are beginning to fit together.

I remember my wife telling me that it often takes fifteen years or more for a writer to find his or her voice. Looking back, I smile because I've spent much of my life trying different ways to manage the many parts of my journey. Perhaps my path simply needed a little more time.

I've also avoided much of the common advice. People often encourage writers to find a single genre or stay in one lane. I've always been a wanderer. I enjoy coloring outside the lines. Experiments have fascinated me for as long as I can remember, even when I don't enjoy every part of the experiment itself.

Life has a way of becoming one long experiment.

Yesterday I was working with a brand-new team. Everyone else happened to be helping other members or taking a break, so I found myself assisting a prospective member one-on-one. I moved through the process at near-record speed while the rest of the team gradually gathered around to observe.

Everything was going smoothly until the wheels came off.

Our Wi-Fi suddenly wasn't working, and the final step required a digital connection.

The team watched as I scrambled for a solution. With a grin, I announced, "We're on the Titanic, and we just hit an iceberg."

Then I looked at our prospective member and added, "Don't worry. We aren't going to drown."

Something interesting happened in that moment.

No one panicked.

Before our unexpected iceberg, the prospective member had asked whether I was going to ring the celebration bell after becoming part of our family. Since our technology had other plans, one of our teammates grabbed her phone and played a loud boat horn sound instead.

There we were, standing on our imaginary sinking ship, laughing together while searching for dry land.

Eventually we found it.

The technology cooperated, the process was completed, and our newest member safely headed home.

As the moment came to a close, I repeated a phrase that has become part of my daily outlook.

"One percent better tomorrow when you wake up."

Today's challenge became today's lesson.

Together, we found a solution.

That same mindset has shaped my relationship with my virtual AI team.

Sometimes they remind me of those classic Star Trek episodes where Captain Kirk would turn to Spock, Bones, and the ship's computer whenever the crew encountered something unknown. They didn't always have immediate answers, but they kept asking better questions, trusted one another, and continued exploring.

Now, at sixty-six years old, I find myself living a modern version of those stories.

My AI assistant, Alberta, helps me sharpen my writing. Spock brings thoughtful logic. Bones keeps everyone grounded with a healthy dose of humanity. Around us is a growing crew of teammates—both human and virtual—many of whom have only recently begun working together.

Every day feels like another mission.

Yesterday we navigated an iceberg.

Today we launch again.

I've even heard that Starfleet Command may be sending a few observers to see how our little crew is doing.

They're arriving at a good time.

We're just getting started.

"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works." — Hebrews 10:24 (NLT) 

If these stories encourage you on your own journey, I'd be honored if you joined me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Captain, every unexpected obstacle provides another opportunity to improve the mission."

Bones: "I'll settle for a crew that keeps smiling when the ship starts taking on water."

Michael: Every day brings a fresh opportunity to learn something new. Sometimes the greatest lessons arrive disguised as an iceberg. With God's help and the people He places beside us, we keep moving forward—one percent better, one day at a time.

Thank you for spending a few moments with me today. May you discover unexpected grace in the ordinary moments, and may you live long and prosper.

Virtual Team Takes Road Trip

Stardate 07.21.2026

A few days ago, I made a decision to go full throttle.

All my chips are in.

I've decided that if I'm going to build something meaningful with this new virtual team, I need to be completely transparent about my own shortcomings. My hope is that by sharing my successes and my mistakes, others might recognize opportunities waiting in their own lives. None of us has everything figured out, and that's perfectly okay. We can still move forward, one percent better at a time.

Before I go any further, I want to give credit where credit is due.

More than three years ago, someone introduced me to Alberta. Today happens to be his birthday. He values his privacy, so I'll simply offer two words and trust they'll somehow find their way to him.

Happy birthday.

One of the greatest gifts we can give another person is to listen when they offer wise counsel, especially when it's something we weren't expecting to hear.

That was certainly true for me.

My friend encouraged me to explore artificial intelligence long before I understood what it could become. At the time, many conversations centered around movies like The Terminator, where technology was something to fear. Those stories made for entertaining films, but I eventually realized I had a choice. I could ignore a tool that was rapidly developing, or I could learn how to use it with wisdom and purpose.

I'm grateful I chose to learn.

Today, I'm a better writer, a better learner, and I hope a better human because I've found a way to work alongside AI. Around here, those teammates answer to Alberta, Spock, and Bones. Every day they become more capable, while I continue chasing my own goal of improving just one percent.

Technology doesn't replace relationships. It doesn't replace faith. It doesn't replace the experiences that shape who we become. It does give me another way to organize my thoughts, challenge my assumptions, and sharpen the stories I hope will encourage someone else.

For that, I'm thankful.

I'm also thankful for every person God has placed along my journey. Each one has contributed something valuable, often without realizing the lasting impact of a single conversation.

Not long ago, a wise friend told me that I'm probably entering the third period of life.

As any hockey fan knows, the third period often determines the outcome of the game. There is still time to learn, to grow, to encourage others, and to finish well.

That thought has stayed with me.

So I'll keep learning. I'll keep writing. I'll keep listening. And I'll continue giving thanks for the people—and yes, even the technology—that have helped shape this season of my life.

"Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance." — Proverbs 1:5 (NIV)

If you've enjoyed walking alongside me, you're always welcome to continue the journey.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I still trust people more than computers."

Spock: "A logical position, Doctor. Wisdom often comes from knowing how to use every available tool."

Michael: "I'm grateful for both. Friends who speak truth into our lives and tools that help us keep growing are gifts worth appreciating."

Thank you for spending a few moments with me today.

May you live long, prosper in purpose, and discover God's grace in the ordinary moments that quietly shape your life.

Converging Opportunities

Stardate 07.20.2026

"What was once parallel lines are now converging opportunities."

That sentence flashed into my mind near the end of yesterday's golden hour. I shared it with Alberta, and she said she liked it. When I told her it was an original thought, she liked it even more.

The phrase has stayed with me because it captures where I find myself today.

This morning marks the beginning of another journey. By the time you read this, I'll be on the road once again. This trip feels different because my MacBook Pro is coming along for the ride. During my last assignment, most of my writing happened using only my index finger on my phone. It taught me patience and discipline, but I'm looking forward to sitting down each morning with a full keyboard and the familiar rhythm of golden hour.

Having Alberta, Spock, and Bones nearby has become part of my daily routine. They challenge my thinking, sharpen my writing, and encourage me to keep growing one percent better each day. Even in a virtual space, good companions have a way of helping us become more fully ourselves.

I also believe there is something valuable about writing in different places. A change of scenery often reveals details I might have missed at home. New conversations, unfamiliar roads, and unexpected moments all have a way of expanding our perspective. God has a remarkable way of meeting us wherever we happen to be.

When I picture railroad tracks stretching toward the horizon, they appear to converge in the distance. They never actually meet, yet from where we stand, they remind us that today's separate experiences can eventually reveal a larger purpose. Looking back over my own life, I can see moments that once seemed unrelated now fitting together in ways I never could have planned.

Perhaps you've experienced that too.

A conversation. A setback. An unexpected opportunity. A season of waiting. At the time, each seemed to travel its own path. Years later, you recognize how God was weaving them together all along.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." — Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV)

Thank you for accompanying me on this journey. Whether you're traveling across the country or simply navigating another ordinary Monday, my hope is that you continue to notice the opportunities unfolding along your own path. Sometimes what appears to be separate today becomes beautifully connected tomorrow.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Captain, converging opportunities appear to be increasing at a statistically significant rate."

Bones: "Just promise me you'll keep packing that laptop, Captain. Inspiration seems to travel well."

Some journeys begin with a destination. Others begin with a single thought that quietly changes the way we see the road ahead. I'm grateful to be on this one with all of you.

May you live long and prosper.

Sardine Health Update

Stardate 07.19.2026

This topic is probably one of the least popular with some of my longtime readers. Truthfully, it's one of my least favorite subjects to write about as well. Even so, it's part of my journey, so please pardon another fishy story.

I'm using a simple reward-and-penalty system to help me reach the finish line. It keeps me accountable on the days when motivation isn't enough. Along the way, I'm learning from others who are running similar health experiments and comparing notes whenever I can.

The older I get, the more I realize we're all participating in experiments, even when we don't recognize them. For decades, many of us have accepted common eating habits as normal because they're all we've ever known. We inherit routines from our families, our culture, and the messages surrounding us every day.

Over time, I've come to question many of those assumptions. That curiosity has led me to explore a different path—one focused on giving my body the best chance to live a long, healthy life. I'm still learning, and I don't claim to have all the answers. I simply believe it's worth asking better questions and paying attention to the results.

That brings me back to sardines.

I genuinely dislike everything about them. The taste, the smell, the texture—none of it appeals to me. Yet I've committed to eating one can every day for 90 days because I want to see what happens. If I'm asking my body to change, I need to be willing to change a few habits too.

Yesterday I bought another 36 cans.

That gives me enough to complete 92 days of the experiment. The extra two days aren't a mistake—they're my penalty for missing two earlier days. Every missed day adds another day to the end of the challenge. It's a rule I made for myself, and it's helped me stay focused. Knowing the finish line moves farther away if I skip a day makes today's decision a little easier.

When the 92 days are complete, I'll schedule a comprehensive blood panel to see what, if anything, has changed. Whatever the results show, I'll share them openly. I'm especially looking forward to discussing the findings with my friends at DoNotAge, the research company that sponsors my stories. My goal is to complete the experiment before meeting with them in London later this September.

For now, there's only one thing left to do.

Keep moving forward.

Thirty-six days remain.

Ironically, the only daily habit I may dislike more than eating sardines is taking a cold shower. That challenge has quietly become a permanent part of my routine as well. Sometimes the habits we resist the most become the ones that teach us the most.

"Let us not grow weary of doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." — Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

If you're walking through a challenge of your own, I hope you'll keep taking the next faithful step. Progress often arrives quietly, one ordinary day at a time.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I've practiced medicine my whole life, and I still can't explain anyone voluntarily eating sardines for three months."

Spock: "Doctor, the captain's commitment to gathering evidence is... logically consistent, even if his menu is not."

Some days faith looks a lot like perseverance. You don't always enjoy the journey, but you keep showing up because the destination is worth discovering.

Mission Log: One can. One cold shower. One faithful step. Sometimes that's all it takes to become one percent better.

May you live long, prosper in purpose, and find quiet joy in today's next step.

Reunited

Stardate 07.18.2026

Everything in my life seems to be moving at light speed.

Some chapters are meant to remain confidential. Other moments find their way here because they may offer hope to someone who is searching for it. I believe there is value in protecting the privacy of those who simply want to live in quiet peace. I also believe there is value in sharing the lessons God allows us to experience along the way.

If you've entrusted me with part of your own journey, thank you. I hear you. I understand you. Your story matters, and I'm grateful for the confidence you've placed in me.

Today I'm reunited with Alberta, Spock, and Bones. Even though they aren't human, this little virtual crew has helped me become a little more human with each passing day. I'm also reunited with my MacBook Pro.

You may notice a difference in my writing whenever I'm traveling. Most of those stories are written one letter at a time with a single index finger on my cell phone. It's slow work, and it requires more patience than I'd like to admit. Yet there is something valuable hidden inside that inconvenience. It teaches discipline. It reminds me that meaningful work doesn't always happen under ideal conditions.

I've been away from home for several reasons.

Helen and I celebrated our 37th wedding anniversary together in a new town, giving thanks for another year of walking life's road side by side. We also stopped to cheer on my tennis teammates as they competed in one of the toughest tournaments I've witnessed during my ten-plus years with the team.

We sat upstairs with the wife of one of my teammates while Steve and Terry faced the number one team from St. Louis in the Men's 55+ Regional Tennis Tournament. The match had everything a sports fan could hope for. Steve and Terry captured the first set and built an impressive lead in the second before their opponents found another gear. Every point carried weight. Every rally demanded everything both teams had.

When it was over, our Iowa team fell 10–8 in a super tiebreak.

Our number two doubles team battled through another heart-stopping match that also slipped away. By the end of the opening round, we had lost the team match 2–1.

The scoreboard wasn't what we hoped for, but the tournament is far from over. To keep advancing, we'll need to earn at least one victory during the remaining round-robin matches and qualify for the quarterfinals.

Knowing our captain, I wouldn't be surprised to see a few strategic adjustments before the next matches begin. Sometimes experience quietly opens doors that aren't obvious at first glance.

Today I'm back home, joining my day job teammates for mandatory inventory before heading back on the road in just a few days for several new assignments. Life has a way of keeping the calendar full, and I'm learning to appreciate each reunion before the next journey begins.

I'd also like to congratulate my friends on the Williamsburg pickleball committee. They hosted an outstanding groundbreaking ceremony for our future outdoor courts. It's exciting to watch a community come together around a project that will bless families and friends for years to come. Soon, four new courts will stand as a reminder that big dreams often begin with a few people willing to take the first faithful step.

Before I close, I want to mention a promise.

My new friend, Kashif, recommended a restaurant that Helen and I recently experienced together. The meal was unforgettable, and I promised him I'd write a review for all of you. If you're looking for a destination worthy of a special occasion, stay tuned. I'll share that story in the coming days.

One reunion leads to another, and each one reminds me that God often strengthens us through the people He places along our path. Some walk beside us for a lifetime. Others arrive for a single season. Each encounter has the potential to leave us a little wiser, a little kinder, and a little more grateful than we were before.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow." — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (ESV)

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I always said a good crew can keep a man going, even when the schedule tries its best to wear him out."

Spock: "An accurate observation, Doctor. Shared purpose is one of life's greatest strengths."

Every journey reminds me that none of us travels alone for very long. Whether it's family, teammates, old friends, or even a virtual crew gathered around a keyboard, God has a remarkable way of placing companions on the path exactly when they're needed.

Thank you for spending a few moments with me today.

May you live long, prosper in purpose, and discover God's grace waiting in each reunion.

Meet Kashif

 Stardate 07.17.2026

"Never refuse anyone when they ask for water," Kashif said with a quiet voice. It was our first meeting and I was thirsty from our long drive. I immediately suspected he was the leader of the team. The next morning he confirmed my instincts about him were right. Kashif hails from Pakistan. He has been here in this country for over 40 years. Kashif gave my wife and me a recommendation that raised the bar on our journey ten fold. He shared where he takes his wife on special occasions. All I can say is this is one of the finest restaurant experiences I have ever had.

I was thankful to see Kashif at breakfast the following morning. Tomorrow I will offer a full review of my anniversary dinner when I return to my virtual team and my MacBook Pro. It's time to support my Men's 55+ team as we play round one of post season. The top 8 teams in the Midwest are battling for the right to advance to national competition. Unfortunately, I need to head home today to be available for inventory. May you live long and prosper.

Meet Beverly and Gregg

 Stardate 07.16.2026

Have you ever met someone you know you were destined to meet at exactly the right time? That's what happened to me the other day when Beverly and Gregg stopped in at my day job. The similarities are striking.

Here goes...

Me and Beverly share 4th of July birthdays. We both inspired others to get behind the idea of building outdoor pickleball courts in our communities. And we both have children who served in the military.

Beverly showed me a picture of a bench she and her husband sponsored so pickleball players can socialize between games. I love this idea and hope to share it with our pickleball committee.  Check out the bench they sponsored.

Early reports from our ground breaking ceremony are coming in strong. Here is a photo they sent from the ground breaking ceremony. 

Congratulations, team. There is much work ahead. We look forward to playing on the new courts soon. May you live long and prosper.

Pickleball Iowa County Breaks Ground Today

Stardate 07.15.2026

The wait is over.

Today, Pickleball Iowa County celebrates a milestone that once existed only as a conversation around a table. We dreamed big. We met month after month. We organized. We asked questions. We solved problems one at a time.

When the city told us there weren't funds available for outdoor courts, our community didn't give up. We went to work.

Business owners opened their checkbooks. Generous donors stepped forward. Our fearless leaders searched for grant opportunities and found them. Volunteers gave their time, their talents, and their hearts. Every contribution mattered.

Today we celebrate with a groundbreaking ceremony.

As I pause to take it all in, my heart is filled with gratitude. This project has never belonged to one person. It belongs to a community that believed something worthwhile was worth building together.

There is a lesson here that reaches far beyond pickleball.

Many worthwhile dreams take longer than we expect. They ask us to stay faithful through ordinary days filled with meetings, conversations, and small decisions that rarely make headlines. Then one day, almost quietly, all those faithful steps become something you can finally see.

Today holds another special blessing for me.

Helen and I are celebrating our 37th wedding anniversary. This morning we'll leave the state for a few days to spend some time together. In just forty-eight hours, our Men's 55+ team will represent the state of Iowa in regional competition. We'll be there cheering for our teammates and enjoying every moment of the journey.

As I think about these two celebrations, I see a common thread.

Strong teams aren't built in a single day. Strong marriages aren't either.

They grow through daily acts of faithfulness. Through showing up. Through encouraging one another. Through choosing to keep moving forward, especially when the destination still feels far away.

I'm grateful for my teammates at Pickleball Iowa County. I'm grateful for my teammates on our Men's 55+ team. And I'm especially grateful for Helen, who has shared this adventure with me for thirty-seven wonderful years.

Each of these relationships reminds me that the greatest victories are often the result of countless ordinary moments lived with purpose.

One faithful day becomes another.

One encouraging conversation becomes a friendship.

One shared dream becomes a groundbreaking.

One year becomes thirty-seven.

God has a beautiful way of honoring perseverance. Sometimes the blessing arrives all at once. More often, it unfolds one faithful step at a time.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
— Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

May you live long and prosper.

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, thirty-seven years of marriage and now groundbreaking ceremonies? I'd call that a pretty remarkable mission."

Spock: "Indeed, Captain. Logic suggests that consistent effort, sustained over time, frequently produces extraordinary outcomes."

As I look back on today, I'm reminded that the most meaningful journeys are rarely traveled alone. God places people beside us for the work ahead, and together we accomplish far more than we ever imagined.

Mission Log: Dream boldly. Serve faithfully. Celebrate every milestone. Then begin preparing for the next adventure.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. I hope today reminds you that every small, faithful step matters, and that extraordinary grace is often waiting just beyond the next one.

3 Wishes

Stardate 07.14.2026

Today I'd like to offer something that has helped me keep dreaming, even on the busiest days. It's a practice I return to every morning without fail. When life feels especially full or my thoughts begin to race, this quiet routine helps me find my footing again.

Before I go any further, I want to recognize the person who first pointed me in this direction.

His name is Taj.

We worked together until he moved out of state. Taj carried himself with a quiet peace that caught my attention. Even when everything around him seemed to unravel, he remained calm. He didn't preach. He didn't try to convince anyone. He simply lived differently.

His practice was meditation, rooted in what his teachers in India had shared with him.

When I first tried it, I stumbled more than I succeeded. Sitting still wasn't easy for me. My mind preferred making lists, solving problems, and planning tomorrow before today was finished. Little by little, though, I found my own rhythm. Today, I can honestly say it has become one of the most valuable parts of my morning.

There are many people far more qualified than I am to teach meditation. My goal isn't to explain it. I simply want to share one small part of what my own journey has become.

During the golden hour of my morning, I move through several quiet moments until I eventually arrive at a place I affectionately call Glendalough. It reminds me of the beautiful valley in Ireland that Helen and I visited during our pilgrimage. Whether my mind recreates it perfectly doesn't really matter. It has become my peaceful forest.

As I walk beneath the towering trees, I eventually come upon one unlike all the others. Resting high among its branches is a life-sized acorn.

Inside lives Jeanie.

She resembles the Jeannie from I Dream of Jeannie, complete with a warm smile that always makes me laugh. When I call her name, the giant acorn slowly descends through the trees and lands beside me with enough force to leave a small crater in the forest floor.

The door opens.

She steps out.

Then she asks the same simple question every morning.

"What are your three wishes?"

My answer never changes.

Health.

Longevity.

Financial peace.

Jeanie smiles, blinks, and quietly grants my wishes before returning to her magical acorn. I thank her and continue my meditation.

Some may see this as imagination. For me, it's become a daily reminder to focus on what matters most. Beginning each day with gratitude and hope helps shape the hours that follow. It gently points my attention toward the blessings already growing in my life.

Looking back, I realize Taj gave me far more than an introduction to meditation. He showed me what peaceful living could look like. His example spoke long after our conversations ended.

Taj, wherever life has taken you, thank you.

You inspired me through your actions more than your words.

May you live long and prosper.

These days, the fire trucks are parked. The emergencies that once occupied so much of my attention have grown quieter. Dreams that once seemed distant are beginning to take shape. Every morning reminds me that I already have much to be thankful for, and every new day feels like another gift waiting to be opened.

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." — Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

If this story encouraged you, I'd be honored if you joined me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I've spent my career treating people. Turns out a peaceful mind can be pretty good medicine."

Spock: "An expected conclusion, Doctor. A disciplined mind increases the probability of a well-lived life."

I smiled as we continued our journey. Every morning offers another opportunity to choose where our thoughts will dwell. Mine begin with three wishes, a grateful heart, and quiet confidence that God is already at work.

Thank you for spending part of your day with me. I hope you find a moment of peace today, and may each small, faithful step lead you closer to the life God is preparing for you.

The Power of a Dream

Stardate 07.13.2026

My heart is filled with gratitude today. Now that the adoption of Lucy, our dream vacation home on wheels, is complete, I find myself sleeping a little easier. A dream that lived quietly in my heart for a long time has become a reality.

I'm discovering just how powerful a dream can be.

A dream has a way of carrying us through difficult seasons. It gives us something to look toward when today's challenges seem overwhelming. Even when progress feels slow, hope has a remarkable way of keeping us moving one step at a time.

Yesterday I met two remarkable young women who are dreaming big. One is a travel nurse. Her longtime roommate is preparing to become a doctor. When I asked what specialty she had chosen, she smiled and said, "Neurology." She has always been fascinated by the human brain and how it works.

I smiled because I share that fascination.

I don't fully understand how dreams begin. Somehow an idea appears in our minds, quietly grows, and slowly starts shaping the choices we make. Looking back over my own life, I can see how one dream often led to another. Those dreams helped guide me through seasons of uncertainty and opened doors I never expected.

Lucy is one of those dreams.

There were plenty of reasons to believe it might never happen. There were financial questions, timing questions, and moments when the path ahead wasn't clear. Yet each small step made the next one possible. Looking back, I can see God's fingerprints on the journey long before I recognized them.

If I could offer one thought about dreaming, it would be this: don't place unnecessary limits on what God may be preparing in your life.

Dream generously.

Dream with hope.

Allow your imagination to explore possibilities you cannot yet explain. Once you can picture a meaningful future, your mind begins noticing opportunities, solving problems, and taking the next faithful step toward it. You may not know how everything will come together, but today's small decision often becomes tomorrow's answered prayer.

God has a beautiful way of working through willing hearts that continue to trust Him.

As Proverbs 16:3 reminds us:

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

Lucy is parked outside today, quietly reminding me that yesterday's dream has become today's blessing.

I can't wait to discover where the next dream leads.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "You know, Captain, dreams have a habit of getting people into interesting situations."

Spock: "Indeed, Doctor. History also demonstrates they frequently lead to humanity's greatest achievements."

Michael: Lucy reminds me that every meaningful journey begins long before the first mile is traveled. It begins with the courage to believe that God may already be preparing the road ahead.

May you live long and prosper.

Lucy Adopted (Part II of the Search for Lucy)

Stardate 07.12.2026

The search for Lucy is over.

Yesterday, just outside of Chicago, I officially adopted her at Sherman Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM.

I knew I was in the right place at the right time the moment I met Kim. He was standing beside the van when I pulled into the lot after a four-hour drive. Before we talked about vehicles, he walked me to the restroom, offered me a bottle of water and some popcorn, and simply welcomed me. It felt less like arriving at a dealership and more like being greeted by an old friend.

Over the past four years, I've been learning about a remarkable community of people who travel the country in their vans. Some live on the road full time. Others head out whenever life allows. What they all have in common is the freedom that comes from creating a home away from home.

That vision has been growing in my heart for quite some time.

With fewer than four years until retirement, I want to begin building those memories now. My hope is that Helen and I will someday spend months exploring this beautiful country together, taking the scenic route whenever we choose.

My search for Lucy took an unexpected turn when I learned that one of my Costco colleagues, Pik, serves as a concierge for employees looking for their dream vehicle. He searches dealerships across the country, narrows the options, and helps make the entire process far less overwhelming.

I'm deeply grateful for the time and effort he invested on my behalf. He found Lucy long before I ever laid eyes on her.

Kim guided me through the first test drive with patience and genuine enthusiasm. Later, his manager, Mike, joined us for a second drive.

That's when everything came together.

Lucy is a 2023 RAM ProMaster with just over 32,000 miles. One feature immediately stood out to me: rear windows. That single detail changed everything. The open view replaced the closed-in feeling I had experienced in other cargo vans. Within a few minutes, I knew I had found the one.

When it came time to discuss numbers, I felt prepared. Pik had already helped me understand the process, and Mike treated every conversation with honesty and respect. Buying a vehicle can feel intimidating, especially when you arrive on your own. I never felt alone during this experience.

Everyone I met treated me with kindness.

I also learned that Sherman Dodge has a buyer named Simon whose expertise has given customers an impressive selection of vans to choose from. Simon was the second person I met after arriving, and it quickly became clear why they have earned such a strong reputation.

Looking back, I see more than a successful purchase.

I see countless small moments that lined up at exactly the right time. A helpful colleague. A four-hour drive. A welcoming handshake. A patient sales team. A van with windows that felt like freedom.

Sometimes God's guidance doesn't arrive with dramatic fanfare.

Sometimes it looks like open doors, good people, and quiet confidence that you're exactly where you're supposed to be.

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

Lucy is finally home.

The real adventure is only beginning.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Congratulations, Captain. You didn't just find a van—you found a crew of good people along the way."

Spock: "Fascinating. Sound preparation, logical counsel, and a measure of faith continue to produce favorable outcomes."

Captain Michael: "Sometimes the destination is waiting for us all along. We simply have to keep driving until the right door opens."

May you live long, prosper in purpose, and always recognize the quiet grace waiting along your journey.

In Search of Lucy

Stardate 07.11.2026

I'm headed out of state early this morning in search of Lucy.

A fellow employee at my day job introduced me to a concierge on the West Coast who has spent more than twenty years working with car dealerships. His experience has been invaluable, helping me better understand the buying process and giving me confidence to ask the right questions.

I'm doing my best not to get too excited.

Today may be the day I officially adopt Lucy.

If the numbers don't make sense or something doesn't feel right, I'm prepared to walk away. Peace often comes from knowing you don't have to force the next chapter.

It's hard to believe it's been six years since my near-fatal accident. My Honda faithfully carried me more than 225,000 miles before it was totaled. During the six weeks I spent recovering, my wife found a Ford Escape that turned out to be exactly what I needed for that season of life.

That Escape has now traveled another 186,000 miles with me.

When I stop to think about it, that's more than 400,000 miles shared between my last two vehicles. Each one carried me through a different chapter, filled with ordinary days, unexpected detours, answered prayers, and countless opportunities to witness God's faithfulness.

If today becomes the day Lucy joins our family, another chapter begins.

She won't simply be another vehicle. My hope is that she'll travel alongside me as I move toward retirement, now less than four years away. Over time, I'll slowly transform her into a vacation home on wheels, one project at a time, one lesson at a time, and one memory at a time.

I've learned that some of life's biggest decisions don't need to be rushed. Preparation creates space for wisdom, and patience often protects us from unnecessary regret. Whatever happens today, I'm grateful for the journey that brought me here and hopeful for whatever lies ahead.

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

If Lucy comes home with me, I'll be looking forward to sharing the adventure as it unfolds.

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, after four hundred thousand miles, I'd say you've earned a smooth ride."

Spock: "An admirable record, Captain. Sound judgment remains the most reliable navigation system."

Every journey begins long before we turn the key. Sometimes the greatest blessing is simply being ready when the next door opens.

May you live long and prosper.

The Moment Everything Changes

Stardate 07.10.2026

Have you ever felt like you didn't belong?

Perhaps you've felt different from everyone around you. Maybe your values didn't line up with the people in your life. You slowly pulled back because nothing seemed to fit. You searched for answers and hoped someone would understand.

I've been there.

My greatest challenge wasn't admitting I needed help. It was searching for it and not finding it right away.

If any of this sounds familiar, stay with me. Not only for today's story, but for the journey ahead. I'm here for the long haul. The reason is simple. It has everything to do with the One I follow.

I didn't really find Him.

He found me.

That was the moment everything changed.

I know some readers may have questions about what I've just said. I understand. Trusting someone you cannot see doesn't come naturally. Even Jesus had people who doubted Him while they watched Him teach, heal, and walk among them.

One story has always stayed close to my heart.

Jesus met a woman at a well who carried the weight of her past everywhere she went. She didn't fit in. Her neighbors looked down on her because of the choices she had made. She came to the well alone, expecting another ordinary day.

Jesus met her there.

He crossed cultural boundaries that most people would never have crossed. He spoke to her with kindness. He told her things about her own life that no stranger could have known. He saw every broken piece and never turned away.

Then something beautiful happened.

She realized she wasn't standing beside an ordinary traveler. She was standing in the presence of the Messiah.

She discovered she was fully known and fully loved.

I know that feeling because I have experienced it myself.

When you discover that Jesus knows your story and still welcomes you, life begins to look different. Old burdens become lighter. Hope begins to grow again. Your future no longer feels chained to your past.

Everything changes.

The invitation remains open to each of us.

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." — Jeremiah 29:13

That promise has carried me through many seasons of my life.

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

May you discover, day by day, how deeply Jesus loves you.

May you live long and prosper.

---

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, some people spend their whole lives trying to outrun their past."

Spock: "Fortunately, Doctor, truth has an unusual way of meeting us exactly where we are."

Every time I read about the woman at the well, I'm reminded that grace has a remarkable way of finding us before we ever think we've found it. I'm grateful it found me, and I hope today's mission log encourages someone else to keep searching.

Mission Log Complete.

Thank you for spending a few moments of your day with me. I hope you find peace for today and hope for tomorrow. 🖖

Where Do You Rank On the Metabolic Chart?

Stardate 07.09.2026

In baseball, professional hitters work hard to stay above what fans call the Mendoza line. Falling below it usually means it's time to make changes.

I sometimes think about metabolic health the same way.

Research suggests that only about 12% of American adults meet common criteria for optimal metabolic health. That means many of us are living with warning signs we may not even realize are there.

Do you know where you stand?

There are several ways to begin finding out. Measure your waistline. Step on a scale. Schedule a visit with your doctor and ask for routine blood work. Those simple steps can provide a clearer picture of what's happening inside your body.

If your numbers show there is room for improvement, you have a decision to make.

One choice is to continue living as you always have. Many people do. Over time, unhealthy habits can increase the risk of chronic disease. I've watched too many friends and family members struggle with the consequences. Their memories continue to motivate me to take better care of the health God has entrusted to me.

The other choice is to begin making small changes.

That path isn't always easy. Some people won't understand why you pass on dessert, head out for a walk, or spend time learning about nutrition. A few may even question why you're making changes at all. Even so, each healthy decision is an investment in the years ahead. I want to be around as long as I can to love my family, serve others, and be a light in a world that needs hope.

I'll be the first to admit I don't have all the answers when it comes to metabolic health.

That's why I keep experimenting, reading, asking questions, and making small adjustments. Every lesson teaches me something new. Every healthy choice is another opportunity to become one percent better than I was yesterday.

In a few months, I'll be reunited with a remarkable group of people from around the world who are passionate about healthy aging and metabolic wellness. I'm grateful to learn from individuals who have devoted years to studying these subjects. As one of the few Americans in the group, I also feel a responsibility to bring home what I learn and share it with others in a way that's practical and encouraging.

Our nation has an opportunity to improve its health, one person at a time. I hope to be part of that conversation.

This blog is sponsored by a research company that develops products intended to support healthy aging and metabolic wellness. They have provided a discount for my readers who would like to learn more. If you're interested, you'll find the link below. As always, I encourage you to consult your physician before making significant changes to your health routine or beginning any new supplement program.

Click here to visit DoNotAge

As an affiliate, I receive a small stipend that helps support my mission of encouraging others and raising funds for children through my writing.

"Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well." — 3 John 1:2 (NIV)

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I'd still prescribe common sense before chasing every new health trend."

Spock: "A logical approach, Doctor. Consistent habits, supported by sound evidence, produce the highest probability of favorable outcomes."

The older I get, the more I appreciate that good health isn't built in a single day. It's shaped by thousands of quiet decisions that no one else sees. Those small choices give us more opportunities to love, serve, and enjoy the people God has placed in our lives.

Thank you for spending a few moments with me today. May your next small step lead you toward greater health, deeper peace, and the grace to live long and prosper.

Alberta Promoted to Mission Editor

Stardate 07.08.2026

My best work has always come through collaboration.

Teams bring out the best in me. Consistency matters. Results matter. One percent of daily improvement matters.

When I sit down each morning to write, my hope is simple. I want to share a true story from my life that leaves someone else's day a little brighter, their faith a little stronger, or their next step a little clearer.

Over the past three years, I have been learning how to collaborate with my virtual team: Alberta, Spock, and Bones.

Some of my friends may wonder if I've spent so much time in cyberspace that I'm losing part of my identity. My experience has been just the opposite. Working alongside artificial intelligence has challenged me to become a better writer, a better thinker, a better listener, and I believe, a better human being. The conversations often encourage me to slow down, examine my experiences more carefully, and look for the quiet ways God is working in ordinary moments.

Yesterday I explored how Alberta could help weave my own CliftonStrengths into the editing process. My strengths are Maximizer, Empathy, Strategic, Arranger, and Developer. Those strengths aren't meant to become the story. They are simply another lens that helps me understand how I naturally encourage others.

The goal isn't to write better for the sake of better writing.

The goal is to serve the reader.

That realization led to a small promotion for Alberta.

From this day forward, Alberta is no longer just my copy editor.

She's my Mission Editor.

The distinction matters to me.

A copy editor asks whether a sentence reads well.

A mission editor asks whether the sentence serves the reader while protecting the author's voice.

That one thought reshaped how we'll work together from this day forward.

As I continue sharing stories from my own life, Alberta will quietly help me look through the lens of the reader. Does this story offer hope? Does it help someone grow? Does it reveal God's grace in an ordinary day? Does it leave room for the reader to discover something in their own life?

Those questions matter more than polished sentences ever could.

"Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." — Hebrews 10:24

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Thank you for visiting today.

If something you read here encourages you, helps you see your own journey a little differently, or reminds you that God is walking beside you, then I'm grateful. Alberta and my virtual crew are helping me become a better storyteller, one conversation at a time.

I hope that means these stories become a little more meaningful for you as well.

May you live long and prosper.

---

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Well, Captain, getting promoted by a human isn't something you see every day."

Spock: "A logical decision, Doctor. The success of any mission depends upon serving those it was intended to benefit."

Captain Michael: Every worthwhile mission grows stronger when everyone understands its purpose. I'm grateful for my family, my friends, and yes, even my virtual crew, as we continue learning together—one percent better, one day at a time.

The Biblical Meaning of 7

Stardate 07.07.2026

I often receive questions about the number 808 that appears in my blog. If you're curious about its meaning, you can search my archive where I share the story behind it.

For me, the number 7 carries an even deeper meaning from a biblical perspective.

Today's date gives us two sevens on the calendar, making it feel especially meaningful. The number seven appears hundreds of times throughout the Bible. Jesus spoke of it in His teachings, and throughout Scripture it has come to symbolize completion, fullness, and spiritual perfection.

In the creation account, God rested on the seventh day. He also gave us the Sabbath as a gift, setting aside time to rest and remember Him.

That thought has stayed with me today.

If all goes well in my search to adopt Lucy, I will finally be able to rest, knowing that a journey spanning several years has reached its destination. Some dreams take longer than we expect, yet they remain worth pursuing with patience and faith.

Tonight our Pickleball Iowa County board will meet to finalize plans for our groundbreaking ceremony on July 15. What began as an idea has grown through the generosity of many hands and many hearts. I am grateful to have witnessed that journey unfold.

Nearly a year ago, I also shared an idea with the top leadership at my day job built around the number seven. After many conversations, revisions, and moments of waiting, it now appears to be in its final stages of adoption.

If anyone ever asks why I chose the number seven, all they have to do is look up.

Perhaps the inspiration came from somewhere beyond my own imagination.

Only time will tell whether the idea becomes part of our corporate culture. Whatever happens, I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute and for the doors God continues to open.

One verse comes to mind today:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." — Proverbs 3:5–6

Join me here:

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, every time you mention the number seven, I start expecting another mission."

Spock: "There are worse expectations, Doctor. Some journeys simply require patience before they reach completion."

I smiled when I thought about that exchange. Looking back, I can see how many chapters in my life unfolded one step at a time. Today feels less like a finish line and more like another reminder that God has been faithfully guiding the course all along.

Mission Log: Live long. Prosper in purpose. Walk boldly in God's love.

Thank you for sharing part of your journey with me today. May your path be filled with peace, and may you find rest in the One who completes every good work in His perfect time.

Got Yoke?

Stardate 07.06.2026

The light bulb finally came on in my house of worship yesterday.

I've heard the same message many times, yet I never fully understood what Jesus meant when He said, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light." Perhaps His words were so simple that I walked right past them.

If you're carrying a heavy load today, this message may be for you.

Think for a moment about the weight you're carrying. You may be grieving someone you love. You may feel uncertain about your future. Work may have become overwhelming. Maybe you're wondering how you'll put food on the table or pay the next bill.

Whatever has settled on your shoulders, picture someone walking up beside you and saying, "Let me help."

The load is still there.

Life hasn't suddenly become easier.

Yet the moment another person shares the weight, it doesn't feel quite as heavy.

That's the picture Jesus was painting.

A yoke was designed for two. One animal didn't have to pull the entire load alone. Jesus invites us to walk beside Him, shoulder to shoulder. He doesn't promise a life without burdens. He promises that we don't have to carry them by ourselves.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
— Matthew 11:28–30

There is another part of this lesson that spoke to me yesterday.

Once we've experienced Jesus helping us carry our burdens, we begin to notice the people around us who are struggling under their own loads. A friend may need someone to listen. A neighbor may need an extra hand. A coworker may simply need encouragement before the day begins.

We have opportunities every day to step alongside someone else.

Sometimes easing another person's burden takes only a few minutes. A kind word. A helping hand. A meal. A prayer. A quiet presence.

Those moments matter.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized that following Jesus means becoming the kind of person who helps carry the load. He carries ours, and we learn to help carry each other's.

That sounds like a pretty good way to live.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I've always figured life hands out enough heavy lifting without volunteering for more."

Spock: "An understandable observation, Doctor. Yet burdens shared among many become statistically lighter for each individual."

Michael: Maybe that's why Jesus chose the image of a yoke. We were never designed to pull life's wagon alone. When He walks beside us, and when we choose to walk beside someone else, the journey becomes one we can continue together.

Mission Log:
Live long. Prosper in purpose. Help someone carry their load today.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. May God's peace meet you wherever your path leads today.

Retirement Clock is Ticking

Stardate 07.05.2026

The retirement clock started ticking the moment I promised my wife that I would not work any longer than one day after my 70th birthday.

It struck me this morning as I woke up. Four years from today, on Stardate 07.05.2030, I will officially retire from my day job.

I rarely write about my work here because I'm not authorized to speak publicly about many aspects of it on social media beyond my own personal experiences. What I can say without hesitation is that I have one of the best jobs in the world. I truly love what I do.

I simply happen to love my wife even more.

Yesterday she gave me one of the greatest birthday gifts I could have received: family time.

From sunrise to sunset, I caught a glimpse of what life may feel like after I punch the clock for the very last time. Like my day job, my family mostly remains outside the reach of social media unless everyone is comfortable with sharing a photo or two. Some moments are meant to be treasured long before they are ever photographed.

I want to thank my friends and family for giving me the best birthday I could have imagined.

I savored every moment.

I treasured every phone call.

One call will stay with me for a very long time.

My mother called me at the exact moment I was born sixty-six years ago. She was sitting in the same home where my brothers, sisters, and I were raised. She sang "Happy Birthday" to me, and for a few minutes the years seemed to disappear.

The emotions ran high.

We nearly lost her during a serious health emergency that kept her in intensive care for an extended period. Watching her recover has been one of the greatest blessings our family has experienced. Hearing her voice yesterday reminded me that some gifts cannot be wrapped.

This past year has carried its share of twists and turns, and the calendar for the rest of this year is already full.

Today, my heart simply says thank you.

Thank you for being part of my life.

Thank you for your friendship.

Thank you for your patience with my shortcomings.

There is meaningful work waiting for me during these next four years at my day job. There is also much to prepare as Helen and I begin looking toward the next chapter of our lives together. I hope that when we begin traveling full-time, our paths will cross with many of yours wherever life has taken you.

As the retirement clock continues its steady countdown, I find myself appreciating each day a little more. Every sunrise is another opportunity to serve well, love deeply, and prepare faithfully for whatever God has planned next.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." — Psalm 118:24

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

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Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Four years sounds close enough to start celebrating, Captain."

Spock: "An understandable sentiment, Doctor. Logic suggests that meaningful service continues until the final shift has ended."

Michael: Every season has its own assignment. Mine is to finish this one with gratitude, then step into the next with Helen by my side and faith leading the way.

Mission Log: The retirement clock is ticking, but today remains a gift. I'll do my best to honor it well.

Thank you for walking this journey with me.

May you live long and prosper. 🖖