Cousin Time Tonight

Stardate 06.05.2026

One of the greatest joys of my childhood has always been cousin time.

If you happen to live in the Phoenix area, you know there is no shortage of Mulligans and relatives from both sides of my family. Many of my cousins still call Arizona home. The roots run deep there. My grandfather on my dad's side settled in Arizona because the desert climate was better for his health. Over time, much of the family followed, creating a gathering place that became the backdrop for countless memories.

For the past fourteen years, I have called the Midwest home. There is something special about Midwestern living. The people are kind, the seasons each tell their own story, and it has been a wonderful chapter of life. Even so, there are moments when I miss being close to family.

Tonight feels like one of those moments coming full circle.

A couple of my cousins are passing through town, and we'll be getting together for an outdoor concert in a backyard not far from my day job. I am already keeping an eye on the weather forecast and offering up a few prayers for clear skies.

Growing up, this is how we spent time together. If we weren't gathered in someone's backyard, we were camping somewhere on the weekend. The conversations lasted long after sunset. Stories were told around picnic tables and campfires. Nobody needed much of an agenda. Simply being together was enough.

Tonight, my cousin Mark Mulligan will be sharing his music while the rest of us relax, catch up, and enjoy a couple of cervezas. Some things change over the years, but the feeling remains familiar. Family has a way of picking up right where it left off.

Seeing my cousins always feels like a surge of Vitamin D for the soul. The miles disappear. The years disappear. Laughter returns quickly.

Scripture reminds us of the gift found in these relationships:

"How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!" — Psalm 133:1

I suspect tonight will be filled with good music, old stories, and plenty of smiles. Those are the kinds of evenings that stay with you long after they are over.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

May you find time for the people who bring light into your life. Sometimes the greatest blessings arrive disguised as an ordinary evening with family and friends.

Live long and prosper.

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Captain, I've reviewed the medical data. Time spent with cousins appears to have remarkable side effects."

Spock: "Indeed. Increased laughter, elevated morale, and improved emotional well-being have all been observed."

Bones: "In plain English, it does a person good."

For most of my life, family gatherings never required much planning. We simply showed up and enjoyed each other's company. The older I get, the more I appreciate those opportunities when they come along. Tonight feels like one of those gifts worth savoring.

Thank you for traveling with me today. 🖖