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:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

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.