Category: #naturelover

#BoundaryWatersCanoeArea, #naturelover, #signs, #teamwork

Prove It First

emyminzel

There was a public hearing at the Minnesota Senate Building Monday February 24th, 2025. It was to bring awareness and support for proposed Legislation drafted to protect Minnesota from the threats from Copper-Nickel Sulfide Mining.

I was born in Virginia, Minnesota raised on the iron range during the boom. My family has many connections and years of experience in iron ore mines. We are a working-class family, full of sportsmen and women, with respect for the jobs that support us. My connection to the arrowhead region is my heritage. I grew up swimming in the delightfully cold Lake Vermilion with my family.

I cherish the memories I continue to enjoy while visiting the pristine waters in the BWCA each year. We are blessed in Minnesota. Sometimes I think we may be so used to these blessings that we take for granted the quintessential Minnesota way of life. Lake life.

If we are not careful, we will lose what makes our beloved state so great. Look around the nation my friends…

Our fresh water is dwindling quickly. Fact: Over half of the water in Minnesota is already too polluted to eat the fish or drink from. Statistics say that by 2050 over half the population in the nation will have difficulty finding clean drinking water!

This is why I am so passionate about protecting the water in Minnesota. The desire to protect the BWCA is what inspired me to run for the State House of Representative in 2018. Then again for Minnesota State Senate in 2022. Though I did not win, I am still a passionate environmental advocate. Which is why I attended this hearing and support these bills. Now I would like to offer a summary of what I learned.

This is a summary; I will provide a link for the full 52 pages of hearing testimonies below. I am sharing so that you can contact your state representatives and ask them to support these very important pieces of legislation. This is not a democrat nor republican issue; this is a Minnesota issue.

Our water is what makes Minnesota special. We all understand that water is life. Even if we don’t see eye to eye on other subjects. Most of us agree that protecting our Minnesota way of life from foreign invasions with nefarious intentions is something that needs to happen.

Here’s what you should know.

The Prove it First Bill SF1382 /HF 954. Simply request that an applicant seeking a permit to operate a copper-sulfide mine must prove that such a mine can be operated and closed without causing pollution. They must prove an example of a copper-sulfide mine that has been operated for 10 years and has been closed for 10 years without causing pollution.

Bad Actor Bill SF 1744 / HF 1197. This bill would ban Minnesota from issuing nonferrous mining permits to ‘bad actors’ who have already violated specific international laws. Including corruption, bribery, or destruction of natural resources. This common-sense legislation would ensure the legacy of Minnesota’s clean water is not placed in the hands of notorious international mining conglomerates with no regard for Minnesota’s environment or its residents.

Taxpayer Protection Act SF1383 / HF955. Taxpayer protection act would require nonferrous (non-iron) mining companies to fully fund any financial assurance package upfront and in cash. This would protect Minnesota taxpayers from being forced to pay for any environmental clean-up resulting from the nonferrous mining operations. Currently the regular operating methods of these companies are to leave a toxic mess and the clean up bill to the taxpayers by simply declaring bankruptcy.

The Friends of the Boundary Waters Executive Director and Lawyer Chris Knopf shared his personal story that led him to this fight to protect the Boundary Waters.

Chris grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Which became world famous when its river was so polluted it caught fire. That is not the kind of legacy we want to be famous for in Minnesota. He then informed us that Minnesota does not currently have laws to protect its clean water against industrial invasion. Secondly Minnesota regulators are unable to properly enforce the flimsy laws already in the books. That is why they need public support and help reach lawmakers in all districts of Minnesota.

Minnesota State Senator Jen McEwan gave a passionate speech in support of keeping the Minnesota we know and love safe from foreign land grabbers only here to take, pollute and leave. She reiterated that the false narrative that this mine is needed to support green energy is just a marketing wordplay to confuse citizens and lawmakers too. In no way is copper sulfide mining a reasonable way to support green energy simply by how it is produced.

Senator McEwan’s speech was inspiring, and heart felt. Leaving us all with the important task of making sure we do the work of contacting our local representatives and telling them to support this bill. She told the large crowd in attendance. It’s important for you to make noise and get this issue the attention it needs to pass bipartisan legislation!

Dr. Steven Emerman has been a professor of geology for over 30 years and worked in issues related to water and mining for over 40 years. His three main points to share were:

  1. Sulfide-ore mining poses a threat to clean water
  2. The sulfide mining industry has a perfect track record of water pollution
  3. The pollution caused by sulfide mining lasts forever.

He ends his testimony stating. The notion that this kind of mining has been done without polluting the surrounding water systems is simply a myth. The toxic tailings will be a permanent catastrophic curse left for every future generation to come to Minnesota.

Fred Campbell is a retired hydrologist who worked with the MN DNR on the Regional Copper Nickel Study. He’s worked in copper nickel mineral exploration data for numerous mining companies including AMAX, Polymet, Twin Metals and Talon. Proving the tailings of these mining operations are indeed toxic everywhere and do not ever dilute or diminish.

These pollutants have been proven to have effects on human health and the environment with catastrophic impact. His research proves the legacy of sulfide mining sites and districts are all now included on the EPA’s National Priorities Superfund List. (Superfund site is taxpayer-funded environmental cleanup caused by industrial corporate pollution.)

Campbell says Minnesota’s existing legal and regulatory framework cannot protect us from the dangers of sulfide mining. Minnesota needs to enact “Prove it First” and other legislation to permanently protect the BWCA and other sensitive areas.

The Commissioner of Natural Resources for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Kelly Applegate spoke on the long history of sulfide mines irreversibly damaging watersheds. Leaving a legacy of contamination long after the mines are closed or abandoned. He reminds us that water has no boundaries and ripple across the environment into our wetlands, communities and drinking water.

Critical drinking water sources will be in danger throughout the watersheds to the Mississippi river, St. Croix River watersheds and Lake Superior. Without proof that pollution free operations are possible, allowing sulfide mining in Minnesota is a high stakes experiment for the entire ecosystem they are not willing to be part of.

Applegate declared “Our efforts are grounded in our community to preserve Minnesota’s natural environment and water resources for generations to come. There is an Anishinaabe teaching that our people have. We care for our Earth, for those yet unborn and the next seven generations to come. If we make good decisions, we can protect the earth and water and know the next seven generations can have a good life.”

Bob Tammen from Soudan, MN worked on the iron range in the mines. He states. “I worked during the boom of the 1970’s and the bust of the late 80’s and the ups and downs afterwards. During a lifetime of mining I’ve gathered a lot of knowledge of the environmental consequences of our mining activities.”

Referring to the Dunka mines that were closed in 1994. The runoff from that Duluth complex materials is still degrading Birch Lake and running into the Boundary Waters. The State of Minnesota and the mining industry have had over 30 years to work on that problem! And they still don’t have it cleaned up.

Minnesota’s three major watersheds come together on the property of the Hibbing taconite plant. Rainfall at that junction will partly go north to Canada and Hudson Bay, east to Lake Superior, and South to the Mississippi River down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Our water is moving. The failure to clean up Dunka should be a warning that the State of Minnesota is not likely to be able to regulate Twin Metals, PolyMet or Talon, which would respectively pollute The Boundary Waters, Lake Superior and the Mississippi River. When we fight to protect Minnesota’s water, we’re also fighting to protect the water flowing to Detroit and Winnipeg and New Orleans. When we defend Minnesota’s water, we’re defending everybody’s water.

With the wisdom of all his years Bob made a point nobody can argue with, he said. “Eventually, someone else is going to get our water. Let’s be good stewards and send them clean water. Pass Prove It First.

Mike Maleska is an Iron ore miner of 42 years now retired and the local Union President. In his statement in support of the Prove It First bill he says.

Consider this; the companies that intend to undertake this venture are in it for profit. Without proof or evidence these companies make claims such as ‘modern technology and science have made pollution a thing of the past!’ believe me, I hear it all the time.

Now what if the citizens come to believe that copper-nickel mining can be done without polluting without proof. Then our state and federal agencies come to believe it too?

If these false claims are taken to be true by the state and federal agencies gullible enough to permit these mines. We end up allowing the world’s most polluting industry, operating a mine in the most pristine part, of the most pristine state in the USA…

As a former miner and elected union rep, I know that shutting down a mine is incredibly difficult, one might say impossible, never mind how dirty it is. What I want to see is some courage from our legislators to make the mining companies do one simple thing. Show proof that they won’t pollute before they’re allowed to put a shovel in the ground.

Eric Ini.

Eric Ini, Chief Equity and Partnership Officer for the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy.

Eric Ini is from Cameroon, a country in Central Africa with diverse economy and like Minnesota, rich in natural resources. He spoke with a powerful message of caution.

“With companies like Glencore doing business with the government of Cameroon, the potential to alleviate poverty is almost impossible. Glencore’s track record of corruption is alarming. I have witnessed firsthand the corrupt practices of Glencore in my home country.

Glencore’s bribes to government officials were not limited to securing oil and gas contracts but also to secure deals to pay reduced taxes and royalties. In Cameroon the company flew millions of dollars on a private jet to bribe government officials, securing lucrative contracts.

This corruption perpetuated poverty, inequity and environmental degradation, causing irreparable harm to our communities. Glencore’s corrupt practices are not limited to Cameroon. Accusations of bribery and corruption are filed in Nigeria, Gabon, other African countries, globally in England, Brazil, UK and America.

NJ Ayuk, a Cameroonian and Chairman of the African Energy Chambers has publicly stated that Glencore is the worst company in the Energy Sector. It’s surprising that countries continue to do business with them.

By barring corrupt and polluting companies from operation in Minnesota. The Bad Actor Bill is designed to prevent what happened in my native county from happening in Minnesota.

I urge you to prioritize the wellbeing of Minnesotans over the profits of this Swiss-based company. Our state’s environment and communities deserve better than to be put at risk by a company with a proven track record of pollution, corruption and disregard for the law.”

Alan Thometz is a Senior Finance Lecturer for the University of Minnesota. He told us he grew up in Butte Montana, home of the largest mining Superfund site in the US. Butte has been at the center of America’s most extensive industrial cleanup efforts for decades. This former copper mine remains one of the most toxic sites in the Nation. Summary of his statement says.

“Superfund designation is proof that financial assurance has failed. There are 1,340 Superfund sites across the country, representing 1,340 instances where companies have avoided their financial obligations, leaving taxpayers to bear the cleanup costs.

Here is an extraordinary fact; Mining companies use bankruptcy as a strategic tool to avoid their environmental cleanup responsibilities. This is not an accident. THIS IS HOW THEY DO BUSINESS.

The five largest global mining companies with Glencore being the biggest, collectively generated $427 BILLION in revenue and $52 BILLION in operating income over the last 12 months…. These companies are far from struggling. Mining companies are incentivized to file for bankruptcy when the ore runs out. The law allows them to return profits to shareholders while leaving environmental liabilities unpaid. Debt obligations should be paid before investors receive returns.

Minnesota’s current financial assurance laws fail to protect its environment and taxpayers.  It’s time to fix this broken system. We must require mining companies to fully fund their cleanup responsibilities in bankruptcy-proof escrow accounts. This is financial assurance that works. This is how we protect our environment and our taxpayers. Let’s get it done!”

In contrast to the older men who spoke before her. The last person to testify in support of these important bills was a fresh-faced 18-year-old.

Clair Peterson is a freshman attending the University of Minnesota. She is studying to be an Environmental Engineer. I am quoting most of her testimony verbatim because she moved familiar emotions in many.

Clair said, “Two years ago I was able to visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area for the first time in my 16 years of existence. It might be confusing as to why someone who has just started college, has only been to the Boundary Waters once, and has little experience in political activism, is here to speak to you today. Despite this, I know, without a doubt, that the Boundary Waters is a special place.

It has the ability to connect people to each other and the world around them in a way that not other place can. While I was in the Boundary Waters I got to see loons, and snapping turtles, beavers, minks and garter snakes and eagles. I even got to hug a 1,000-year-old cedar tree!

I hauled 30-pound bags and canoes through the wilderness for four days. My crew and I woke up at 5am every morning so we could get an early start on paddling. We had to work together to support and motivate each other through long portages. It was hard, but through it, I got to connect with my peers. It was a beautiful and wonderful experience that I am deeply privileged to have shared with my friends. I know I will cherish the memories I made in the Boundary Waters for the rest of my life.

My hope for the future is that young people like myself, can continue to discover and fall in love with the Boundary Waters. Where they can witness unspoiled beauty year after year. The decision to pass these bills – Prove It First, the Bad Actor Bill, and the Taxpayer Protection Act will not only affect the next 20 years, it will affect the next 70 years of my life. I, for one, would much rather spend the rest of my life planning trips to the Boundary Waters with my family rather than trying to cleanse it of sulfide sludge.

I urge you to act.

The Boundary Waters is a sanctuary that should be preserved for the future. Just as people need the Boundary Waters, the Boundary Waters needs us.”

Out of the mouths of babes… Clair’s testimony moved me to tears with her earnest passion and love for nature. There were dozens of children in attendance at the hearing. Reminding us it’s more than just the facts that are important. The future generation needs us to do this right now.

Clair understood how to articulate the feeling you get after your very first visit to the BWCA. It only takes one trip to feel there is a sacredness in the pristine waters and forest of the beloved Boundary waters Canoe Area.

After my first visit to the BWCA I came home telling everyone I was certain. That’s where God lives.

What Minnesota has is more than clean water and mineral resources. We host the responsibility to protect the sacredness of its purity. A place so special nowhere else in the country can boast. One that must be protected by the Prove it First bill.

Link to Hearing minutes:

Friends of the Boundary Waters Proposed Legislation – Google Drive

Educational video link:

#BoundaryWatersCanoeArea, #bwcadventuresisters, #lessonsthroughjoy, #lifelessons, #naturelover, #signs, #spiritual

Pendulums and Magic

emyminzel

Like, an older sister, Stacy leads by example; and a great one at that. My Adventure Sister confidently dances to the beat of her own drum. She brings out the magic in most everyone she meets. I really love that about her! She’s inspired me to share mine with you too.

I had reservations about writing on pendulums and magic. Then this morning I saw a Grackle at the bird feeder. This is not a bird that shows up regularly at my house. So of course I looked it up.

According to the interwebs Grackle has multiple meanings, the ones that rang true to me where; When Grackle shows up it’s a sign of good fortune, and spiritual protection. YAY! Some Indigenous traditions call it the Firebird and believe it carries the power of a phoenix – which brings the message of rebirth and resurrection. Yay!????

 Since Grackles are known for their loud calls it’s a sign to courageously speak up for yourself. Be brave and speak your truth. It is my intention that sharing my stories of life lessons will somehow inspire others to see beauty even in the mishaps.

On the journey of life. I have constructed an eclectic spiritual belief system. Through trial and error and a dedicated practice of yogic principles. I’ve learned to trust my inner knowing. Mediation helps me to tune into the life force that animates the world. And helps me to pay attention to signs sent by the Universal Consciousness. I call it Higher Power, Spirit, Creation, or The Universe. Some call it God.

Yep. I worship the Earth; I think just maybe… Our planet is mankind’s community Garden of Eden. A gift we’ve been given to care for. It provides all we need to survive, stars, and aurora borealis to boot, it’s truly a miracle. Its ecological systems are so interconnected that not one event doesn’t influence another. (The Butterfly Effect)

How we act, treat each other, respect nature or not, absolutely comes full circle. I am a live and let live kind of girl. I believe thoughts become things, revealing our individual lived experiences. (What do you think about all day?!) And that Setting an intention is no different than praying.

I believe ‘magic’ is just being conscious of the energy I contribute to the web of life that connects it all together. By doing so I get to co-create with the energy of the cosmos, and the spiritual elements that surround us. There is no definition to my spiritual practice and there doesn’t have to be.

Either way, I think it’s important to accept that we all have different beliefs. While allowing others the freedoms to practice theirs, even if you don’t agree. In my opinion, it would be super cool if we all just followed the golden rule.

So, if I want to call on my inner earth worshipping sorceress I will!

Why not call on the healing element of water to help me flow with ease through the rocky rapids that pop up on my journey? Why not ask the wisdom of the wind to transport creative ideas into my awareness or carry my prayers to the Higher Power?

I know how to tap into the grounding stability of earth energy so I can sit down, focus and write about the thoughts I just asked for.  What if I called on the transformative energy of fire to transmute painful life experience into lessons through joy too? 

Maybe the Grackle/Fire bird was telling me to be brave enough to share my magical nature with others. So, they will feel free to do so too. It’s what Stacy did for me, and she made it so much fun! She exuded joyful confidence, which made me feel safe in doing the same. I love sharing stories of our magical friendship with you!

We started using Pendulums when planning our adventures in January. We would lay out the map and ask the pendulum to guide us where to go. I’d dangle it over an entry point number on the map, then watch what it says.

Sometimes it would just hang there and do nothing. That means move on. If it went counterclockwise, we took that as a sign it was not the place for us. When it started to circle Clockwise is a good indicator that was the entry point, we should plan for. We would even ask the pendulum which campsite was the best.

We are very earthy girls, feeling vibes, trusting signs, and when necessary, putting up boundaries. On the second BWCA adventure, we brought several pendulums. Each held colorful stones that signified the four directions North, South, East and West. With the intention to hang them from the trees to create an energetic circle of protection. When we arrived at camp the sun was high in the sky, so we used Stacy’s compass to identify the directions.

Thanking the trees for their assistance in holding the pendulums. We started in the North, the direction associated with the Earth element. Fertile and steady, earth is associated with the Goddess/Feminine energy. The stone hanging from the pendulum was made of green Jade. We thanked the spirit of the north for sharing nurturing guidance during our visit.

Circling clockwise we headed to the East to find a suitable station for the Pendulum associated with Air. We chose a white crystal quarts stone to represent prana, life force/breath. East and the element of air are associated with communication, wisdom, and intellect. We thanked them both for their assistance in carrying your intentions/prayers to Spirit.

Heading clockwise to the South we hung a pendulum made of a red stone to symbolize the element of fire. Fire has the masculine energy of the Sun. Connected to strong will and force. Fire is purifying. It creates and destroys, flames can heal and warm, or bring about new life by abolishing the old and worn. We thanked the spirit of the south and fire for the transformation that it would bring us.

Circling around to the West to hang a pendulum made of light blue stone. West is the direction associated with the element of Water. The healing nurturing womb of creation we all come from. Nothing can survive without water. Water is a feminine energy frequently associated with healing, cleansing, and purification, (holy water) it is correlated with flow of emotion.

To complete the circle of protection we continued clockwise to the North again to close the circle. We give thanks, and gratitude to the Universe for hearing our intentions of healing and protection. Protection against what we did not need to know… the forces that be, will surely take care of us now!

We did a second loop with a tiny sprinkle of black salt to solidify the intention of protection. And at that, our circle of protection was up and running. (Please take it easy with the salt if in nature, mother nature is not a big fan. It’s the intention, not the amount that counts.)

This is the campsite which housed us while we recovered from Billy Goat Portage. We had been so sore and eager to set up our camp that we had made another rookie mistake. One the circle of protection couldn’t protect us from experiencing. We had set up our tent on a semi flat clearing just at the base of a hill. The view was great, and it was in between the cooking grate and the pit potty trail.

We thought nothing of it as we set up cots under a tarp in a separate area of the very large campsite. The wind was picking up, and the night cooling down, so we went to bed early only to wake up a few hours later to 2-3” of rainwater in the bottom of our tent. Water drenched everything in it including us. I woke up very cold, and so exhausted I couldn’t think straight. I was already depleted from the adventures of the day. All I could do was sit on a cot hoping not to die in this misery.

Thankfully Stacy found me and knew exactly what to do to stop that from happening. Now you’re thinking that maybe our circle of protection didn’t protect us at all. But I believe it did. Having someone there who knew how to recognize hypothermia instead of diagnosing me as safe, just soggy suffering… did save me from getting very ill.

The circle of protection didn’t stop this from happening, but it did send me the help and support I needed. Not only with this experience but with the friendship Stacy and I have created. This makes me see that our circle of friends and family provide energetic and emotional protection as well.

The ones that see you suffering and come to your aid. Helping you in the way that they know best. Sometimes with expert nursing skills, other times sharing wisdom or a compassionate ear. These people, and sometimes even our beloved pets create your circle of protection in everyday life.

Sometimes when you call on the elements, they send you what you need, not what you want. Just like mother nature knows when it’s time to water her gardens and it happens to be on your wedding day. It all ends up okay. Some of the best conversations and laughs happen when it rains.

Like Jack Pines, which in my opinion are the coolest trees will only grow only after the seeds in its pinecone have been released by heat, usually a wildfire. Some people also need these kinds of interventions to support transformations. Nature is magical. Humans are encompassed in the natural world.

By realizing we have the ability to shift our energy/thoughts helps us take responsibility for the life force that resides in all of us. We had set the intention to stay safe. The Universe agreed but, in its intelligence, knew it was not going to let us skip out on the experiences that bonded our friendship with trust. Then got me to the gym. 😉

The beauty of Universal forces holds wisdom of divine timing. It orchestrates synchronistic events and meetings that deliver us to our destiny. Just like magic.

No pendulums needed.  

Sending big love and many blessings,

Emy Minzel

Heart Centered, Nature Lover, Writer, Advocate, Adventurer, Yogi, and so much more…

EmyMinzel.com

#BoundaryWatersCanoeArea, #bwcadventuresisters, #lessonsthroughjoy, #lifelessons, #naturelover, #spiritual

Billy Goat Trail Portage

emyminzel

Lessons Through JOY!

Chapter 8 ~

Authored by Emy Minzel

On the 2nd trip to the BWCA, Stacy and I had been calling in adventure! Excited by how transformational last year was. We were thrilled to go back for more lessons.  Craving excitement we spent a lot of time planning the next “Great Adventure into the Wilderness”.

This book is about lessons through joy; I can honestly say that this 2nd BWCA Adventure was not always joyful. I realize now that somewhere along the way. I had conditioned myself to believe the only way I learn a lesson was the “hard way”. Maybe this is why I was asking for hard games??? Silly girl.

This journey would help me rewire this programming… the hard way.

The second year we had packed a cooler with wheels. When we got to the outfitter, they told us wheels of any sort were not allowed in the BWCA.

He then said “It really won’t matter if you had wheels on that portage anyways. The trail is just too rough and uneven.”

Stacy and I looked at each other and asked, “how are we going to bring our food along?”

He said, “No problem, we have a pack for that.” Then disappeared into the back room. Coming back with a big army green soft sided backpack cooler. “If you want to keep it cold, I recommend you go across the street and get some dry ice too.”

That’s what we did. We came back with 6lbs of dry ice and proceeded to empty the contents of our roller cooler into the backpack cooler.

I had frozen water bottles because hot tea is sometimes not appetizing on a warm summer day. And lake water tastes like lake. I had chopped and packed a whole lot of veggies and a large container of watermelon, for hydration. 5lbs of potatoes, some orange juice, a box of wine and a whole lot of miscellaneous grocery items.

The people at the outfitters were kind of giving us the side eye. Looking at each other with their eyebrows up. Did they know we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into? Yes… yes, they did.

Yet we assured them. More than once mind you. That we knew it was going to several trips to portage, but we were ok with it.  (Insert hindsight facepalm here!) They politely let us carry on emptying our cooler into the insulated portage pack. Then went up to the bunk house to rest up for our 5am departure.

In the bunk house we shared the main quarters with a group of men. We had our own bunkbed bedroom as did they. They were very polite upon introduction. We went to bed early and they left. A few hours later they came back to the bunkhouse tipsy. One of the men hopped on the bunk located on the other side of the wall we shared. CREEEEEEEEAAAAAK!!!! EEEK!!! EEEK!!! SQUEEEEEEEEEEAAAAK!!!

For the next 2 hours the bed creaked and squeaked each time he even blinked. He continued to perform the Olympic version of bunkbed fancy flip flop. A little-known bounce house boing and roll sleeping technique.  A method reminiscent of a rotisserie chicken style performed with panache and sound effects flair.

I lay there praying for him to fall asleep or at the very least, stop moving every 2 minutes for the sake of my sanity. “Ugh… my dude… It’s 2:30am now and we gotta be up in 90 minutes. For the love of Pete…. pleeeeeease sleep.”

I was about to lose my cool then finally he got tired of performing. At last, he got up and crawled into a different bunkbed that was not nearly as obnoxious. I slept lightly doing my best to get at least a little bit of rest. When the alarm went off at 4:00am we showered and packed up. Stepping out into the cool predawn morning at 4:45am closing the door behind us. I hope they got more sleep than we did that night.

Time to go! We were so stoked about this Adventure that nothing was going to get us down. We waited for the shuttle van at 5am, tea in our thermoses and a black bean brownie muffin my mom had made in our bellies. Excitement filled the air as we chatted with our driver Lawrence. He was also a guide and helped with BWCA rescues. He had lots of stories to share, we listened intently learning more about this ruggedly beautiful yet sometimes dangerous wilderness.

We pulled into the entry point. There is nothing better than being dropped off at 5:30am when the sun is coming up and hopping right into the canoe and on the calm lake kissed by the morning mist. That was not going to happen this time. The trip was going to start with a portage.

The driver pulled up the parking lot and pulled our supplies out of the trailer. Pointing down a tall grass lined path he declared. “The first portage out to the water is that way.”

“O.K! Thanks!” We tipped him and waved as he hopped back into the van to leave.

This Adventure we had planned was to include 6 or 7 portages. When the outfitter drops you off in the middle of nowhere, really your only option is to GO!

Car loaded with all the cargo we needed to portage.

By the time we got all our packs to the first water way, it had taken us 3 trips each. The 2 cots weighed 20 pounds apiece and the stuck out the opening on each side of one of the packs. We were able to team lift the food cooler pack on this trail while confirming this was going to be a long hard haul…

Still neither of us were discouraged. It was early morning, and we were bright eyed and roaring to go. We had planned on this hard work, claiming our comfort came first! We loaded up our freight into the canoe for the first time. Pushing it out to test float the balance it was nice and level. Though we were quite certain the canoe was at its weight capacity once we climbed in.

The first paddle to the second portage was very peaceful and picturesque. Reeds and wild grasses towered over our heads. The river way was very shallow; the water clean and clear enough to see little fish swimming all around. Occasionally a boulder barricade would imitate a speed bump and slow us down. We would have to hop out of the canoe standing on the giant rocks to carefully steer our cargo ship/canoe around them.

Just before the shallow river way opened to the lake. We came to a beaver dam. As we were crossing over it, I was standing on top, guiding the canoe and hurdling the strong structure.

Crossing my fingers and sending prayers that my foot wouldn’t fall through into to the beaver’s living room. The story my imagination made up was. After my foot poked through it roof. The upset beaver would then of course promptly chew my leg off, for breaking and entering!

Anyone else have a fun imagination too? Stacy giggled at the story I told while navigating over the sturdy den.

What a cool experience! This was already an adventure and we’ve only just begun!

The next leg of the journey was a peaceful 1-mile paddle on a long narrow lake. Intuitively paddling slowly to enjoy a beautiful sunrise service. There was mist at the edge of where the water meets the forest. The surface of the lake reflected diamond like sparkles courtesy of the orange sun guiding in a new day.

I tell people. “It’s where God lives.”  Because this is where I can feel spirit the most.

That morning felt as if ‘God’s country’ had a choir and was singing us a personalized sermon. We paddled silently absorbing this moment. It felt as if Creation herself showed up just to say. “Hello ladies! Welcome home.” I felt my soul let out an audible exhale of relief to finally be back.  

As we paddled on until we came another new experience. There were boulders under the canoe, and they were humongous! We would have to be very careful navigating slowly through them. At times having to both get out of the canoe. Stand on the boulders and push the canoe over or in between to pass.

My intuition told me the boulders were alive with sentience. The oldest beings of creation. I can’t help but believe that these Ancient Stone Spirits supported us on our journey.

At last, the water ran shallow, and we were at the 3rd portage. On the map it looks tiny, less than a quarter mile, totally no big deal. Trails on these maps are quiet deceiving. This was an obstacle course with steep inclines and even more steep drops going back down. The shoreline was made of extra-large jagged edged stones that shifted when you stepped on them. We had to navigate at this portage carefully so as not to twist an ankle. We could have easily gotten hurt trekking through this wobble stone agility test.  

We set to work bracing for another 3 portages each carrying something big and heavy. Stacy seemed to like to carry the canoe first. We concluded after the previous portage she couldn’t carry the canoe while I carried the food. Because the food pack was so heavy I needed assistance. When possible, to walk side by side, we would carry it together. That was a rare occasion this year.

Luckily for us the Gods up above were offering a little help. Just ahead there were a group of men coming back toward us going the opposite direction.

Deciding we better survey the situation before tackling the heavy baggage. We portaged the ‘lightest’ packs weighing no less than 50lbs and our oars. We hiked until we found water. The men we ran into had light gear like most do. Some of them made navigating this jagged optical course of impending broken bones look like it was a cake walk.

The oldest of the men sounded as if he had a southern accent and surveyed us quickly. “How are you ladies doing today?!”

“We are great and yourself?” I offered with a smile.

“Do you mind if we grab something and help you?” He replied. Without waiting for an answer, he hollered.  “Fellas! You guys run up a head and grab their thangs, help these lovely ladies out!”

Before we knew it, he had grabbed the canoe. The other hikers grabbed the rest of our comforts and “necessities”. Setting our packs on the wiggling rocks. Just far enough away from the canoe in the lake so they wouldn’t get wet.

Looking back, I wonder if they thought there was a dead body in that cooler pack. It was crazy heavy. We thanked them all profusely for their chivalry as they left us in their dust.

Already starting to get hungry and fatigued muscles. We celebrated our luck by being very grateful. Carrying each bag together trying not to trip the other or get hurt on the slanted, shuffling razor-edged rocks. Carefully we got the canoe loaded and shoved off to the next portion of the journey. Which seemed to come up in to time at all. Just a few minutes later we got to the 4th portage.

It was going to be the longest portage of the trip. I tried not to complain. After all, Stacy was carrying the canoe and heavy packs too! Neither of us was slacking in the portaging department. But when we pulled up and saw a staircase of rocks going 40 feet up at a steep angle. I tried to fend off a mild panic attack.

My inner child wanted to stomp and throw a fit. “I don’t wanna and you can’t make me.”

We decided this would be a good time to take a break resting and eating more breakfast muffins. We needed to refuel and rehydrate. It was now late morning, and the day was warming up. After our “2nd breakfast” we weren’t going to dilly dally we had places to go. Fairy Lake was waiting for us!

We put the lightest portage packs on and headed up the stone staircase to investigate the long portage. Follow the winding narrow path upwards. “I’m already beginning to feel the burn.” I commented.

Stacy was just ahead of me and was starting to feel some fatigue too. “Mind over matter, we can do this, we ARE doing this.” She said over her shoulder.

“Right!” I said.

This path was paved with haphazard stones jutting out at random. Seemingly at just the right spacing so that you couldn’t keep a steady pace. I had to be fully present. Observing where to put each foot next so I didn’t trip. Adding to the atmosphere there was a steep drop off descending down the mountain we were climbing. Only a foot or so off the path.

Keeping my gaze down and my focus on my red water sandals. I tried to take brief looks at the geographical beauty around us. We didn’t talk much because we had to focus. This trail seemed to keep going up, then we would have to go down to go back up again. Even with our lightest packs this portage was long and hard as hell!

Just when you think the end of the lane is just ahead. Low and behold it is only an illusion my friend. We had to keep going. Up and down. Then up and down some more. Dodging low hanging branches snagged our full-size fishing pole lines that stuck out of one of the packs. We had large cots sticking out each side one portage pack. We came to a narrow corridor stone mountain face on each side. Cots bashing into the stone back and forth with each step as we made our way through. I laugh out loud at this memory. (Insert yet another facepalm moment!)

About 30 minutes later we see water! “Yay! We made it!” Stacy celebrated our achievement as we set our first load down. We gave each other a high five and turned around empty handed to grab another load of baggage.

This time we took in the scenery a little more, unencumbered by the weight of our necessities. I really enjoyed the jaunts back, although we still had to be diligent and very careful with our footing. This trail was tricky, and at times very scary.

Ugh… Here we were at the beginning already. Our pile of stuff still looking extremely heavy. When we started that morning Stacy estimated that the cooler pack weighed at least 100lbs!

It took two of us to lift it onto a tall rock. When it was elevated enough, I could crouch down to slip my arms into the straps. Slowly I stood lifting its weight my back, buckling the waist strap around my middle for more support. I had to walk slowly and bent over while carrying it. It never even crossed our minds when packing that one person would have to carry this load. We were the Queens of teamwork.

I am 5 feet nothin’ and at this exact time in my life, I was not “in shape”. I was carrying well over half my body weight on my back. At least the cooler never complained when I fell over or had to drop it. Saying a prayer to Mercury the God of transportation for swift movements. Maybe Pan the Goat God of the forest would bless me with graceful footing. Praying for help as I ascended the staircase again.

“Goodness sakes! Stace, I’m going to need some help.” I exclaimed, trying not to panic.

We had only just begun, and I was falling backward, forwards and sideways from the burdensome weight on my back. I thought my legs were burning before! Ha!

I felt clumsy trying to gain control of this unyielding bulk on my body. Many, many times Stacy had to push up on the pack from behind, so I made it up the pathway. If she would accidentally help too much, I would easily fall over in random direction.

“What have we gotten ourselves into?!” I asked, only a short way into the trek. “Would you like me to try to carry it?” Stacy offered.

I tried to reassure us both. “No, I got it.” I said.  While simultaneously falling over and almost down the side of the mountain. This was a scary moment for both of us!

Reacting quickly and saving me from what would surely be a painful steep tumble. Stacy grabbed the pack with all her strength, pulling me back to the safety of the trail.

Muscle fatigue had set in challenging my whole body, my legs wanted to give out. I truly had not been physically nor mentally prepared for what we were doing.

I was embarrassed about falling and then I got mad. I thought to myself. “You can and you will do this.” And with a little help from my friend, I did. My thoughts changed from being annoyed, that I had to watch my footing so intently. To considering it was a blessing. For it gave me something to think of besides this beastly burden on my back.

Many thoughts ran through my head, as we journeyed up, up, up, down, up, down. Sometimes falling up the boulders I was trying to climb. This trail experience happened to me for a reason. I contemplated why as we hiked in silence.

Clearly the Universe was telling me to keep focus on what was right in front of me. If you look too far ahead, I get distracted, look too far ahead, I will lose focus, fall off the path. It sounded right at the time. As I was concerned about having to restart my business after moving to another city just a few months before.

This was not the complete life lesson taught by Billy goat Portage. But learning to keep my focus and continue putting one foot in front of the other; has been a repeat lesson over the years.

At last reached the end of Billy Goat Trail. Whew! Finding a taller boulder, I sat it down and unbuckled the cooler pack with a sign of relief. I felt 100 pounds lighter. After a short pause for a water break, we headed back for our last portage pack and the canoe. I was afraid if I sat down, I wouldn’t get back up to continue on.

“Let’s DO this!” I said as we headed UP the path for the final fourth lap. This time it felt much easier than the first two trips.

I never in my life have done something as adventurous, that dangerous, or that physically challenging. Pushing myself to the point of exhaustion, muscles shaking with fatigue… I had very much proven to myself what I was capable of. I was far from the pillar of health at this time. Billy Goat Portage was the initiation I needed. It led to the desire to reclaim my health. It showed me how capable I truly was.  

 After this death-defying feat, we still had another 4-mile paddle to get to our next destination. We paddled those 4 miles taking our sweet time, staying close to shore on the large lake. We finally reached the cove in which our next portage was supposed to be. We paddled back and forth for almost an hour, even shoring up the canoe to climb a hill in search of this mysterious missing portage. Which we couldn’t find the entry point for the life of us!

After a while we concluded we were both too fatigued to go on anyways. It would be best to find a place to camp before we both expired from exhaustion. We found an open campsite almost immediately. It was the large “5 star” rated campsite the Guide at the outfitter told us about last night. We had dismissed his suggestion because we had plans to keep going. Was that coincidence? I think not.

As soon as we saw the campsite a wave of relief flooded my nervous system. We were so very sore from that journey and needed to be done for the day. Our bodies needed nourishment and nurturing. After eating we decided to soak our aching muscles in the lake to cool them down. The lake was cold, but I have no doubt in mind that if we were to opt out of some cold-water hydrotherapy; I would not have been able to move for the whole entire week.

In the end we got the adventure we were calling in that year! Although it didn’t come in a way we expected it. The definition of adventure says there must be elements of danger in the experience to be called an ‘adventure’.

I’d say hurdling a beaver dam and navigating an obstacle course made of razor-sharp shifting rocks. Experiencing Billy goat portage 4 times and almost falling down a mountain side wearing a 100-pound backpack. Then waking up in the middle of the night soaking wet in a flooded tent and on the brink of hypothermia would qualify for danger. Don’t you?

Yet, without this challenge I would have never started my journey back to wellness. Something had changed deep inside me after that. I realized I was not doing my body any favors by going so easy on myself. My muscles were weak, my balance off, and my joints achy. We had spent our whole BWCA vacation resting and recuperating our battered bodies, preparing for the return journey.

After we got home; instead of going back to my old routine consisting of an abundance of couch and TV time. I started using my gym membership, challenging myself physically for the entire next year. Instead of TV I started to write. I consistently challenging myself, leveling up in life and on the elliptical. This led to jogging on the treadmill. Which turned to running and then weight training.

I was determined to prepare myself for the 2015 BWCA trip. I wasn’t going to be caught off guard again, no Siree!

As I write this. We just returned home from the 2015 BWCA adventure about a week ago. Where I learned the Universe has a wonderful sense of humor. Because this year; we didn’t portage. Not even once.

This lesson taught me how strong I really was. How capable I am when I truly focused. Gaining the desire and determination to maintain wellness has been a blessing in many ways.

This experience started the journey to a healthier version of me. The me I want to be. I want to be active and able to do all the adventuring I desire as I get older. Staying strong and fit is a necessary component to making that possible. Especially as I age.

Over the years I have completed 500hours of yoga training and I am a Certified Yoga Teacher. My thoughts on exercise have transformed to gratitude. I love to be active; I love moving my body, and I am grateful for all it can do. I am always thanking my body for what it does for me. “Thank you, body for doing what I ask you to do. Today and every day. I appreciate you.”

I thank myself for the will and focus to continue moving in healthy ways. After all, my subconscious can hear me. And I am purposely reprogramming my beliefs and requesting easier games now!

Although this was a lesson that felt like it was taught “the hard way”. I now know it was a gift of realignment back to wellness. Which brings me gratitude and great joy!

Wishing you big love and many blessings,

Emy Minzel

Heart Centered, Nature Lover, Writer, Advocate, Adventurer, Yogi, and so much more…

EmyMinzel.com

#lifelessons, #naturelover

Finding wisdom in nature

emyminzel

The leaves are turning a stunning array of vibrant colors here in Minnesota. Once the trees are done changing color, they shed its summer shelter releasing what no longer serves it. We can learn a lot from trees, and the cycle of nature. Allowing ourselves to let go of what has lost purpose in our lives makes room for what does!

It a great time to release relationships, behaviors, emotions, careers, and other goals you may have pursued at one time but no longer have passion for. Humans have a lot of feelings about everything. It can be difficult to let things end that you have put so much time and effort into creating.

Nature doesn’t seem to have a problem letting go though. She takes her time and lets it happen in its own rhythm. Yet, when I look out my window. I wonder if it is painful and laborious to change seasons? Somedays it is for me! Witnessing the effort Mother Nature puts into growing in the spring; only to watch it die and disappear in the autumn must feel arduous in some way.

We can feel that way when it’s time to let things go in our lives. Still, if we pay attention, we know that the cyclic nature of Mother Earth reflects in our lives too. If we edit the parts of our lives as ruthlessly as she can. We could see how detached from the outcome she is. She trusts that it is the way it is supposed to be.

Underneath the fallen foliage is next year’s seeds germinating waiting for the right time to burst forth and bloom. If this is the case, why then would it be any different for us? Why do we resist releasing what does not serve our greatest good every once in a while?

Is it only me or do you also have trouble deciding to let parts of your life just wither and die? Sometimes it is easy to let go if you are excited about what’s next! Maybe that is the most important ingredient of it all? Attitude and trusting in the process of life to unfold as it should, undoubtedly will help.

Mother Nature is not worried about the fall because she is ready for her winter rest. I’d like to think that is the case anyway. Nothing in life blooms all year and that is true for me and you, too. We need time and space to rest in the years fresh compost of our experiences to germinate our new beginnings.

My random introverted contemplations help me move through fluctuations in my life. Like the leaves signaling the change of seasons. If I simply allow nature to do its job while harvesting the apples of wisdom I grew through the summer. Life will flow effortlessly into the next beautiful transition of a new year.

Like Mother Nature, I look forward to the changing season. I trust the landscape of my life to be transformed into the divinely guided journey that is our own unique natural cycle of existence. I must allow people, places, feelings, and things to come or go as they please. With a deep knowing that I have no control even if I wanted it. Let go and let God.

Trusting my life to the nature of destiny is easy as I witness the ever-changing landscape from my window year after year. Finding the beauty in every falling leaf of my life lessons is how I give thanks and let go for my own good.

What has nature taught you? I would love to hear your thoughts!

Sending peace, love, and success!

Blessings to you!

Emy Minzel

EmyMinzel.com

#lifelessons, #naturelover, Innerwork

Feeling 43

emyminzel

 

My forty-third birthday is almost here, and the year behind me was a wild ride with many unexpected twists and turns! I am grateful for them all, even the bummer ones. I grew emotionally stronger and learned valuable life lessons while growing courage I did not think was possible. I hope to express an authentic reflection of personal growth that can happen all in just one crazy year.

In my 42nd year, I took a giant leap of faith and tested my luck by running for State Representative in Minnesota. Whoa! This was an unexpected turn of events for me. I’m talking altogether out of the left-field! I had no idea what I was getting into. I lost the election, but the skills I gained personally made it all worthwhile.

Yet, as I am about to turn the page on another chapter in my personal story. I am thankful I conjured up the courage and took that chance to speak from my heart. Pursuing politics still pulls at my protective and compassionate environmental loving spirit. I believe we need good people to stand up and fight for those who does not have a voice.

My campaign motto was, “Protect what you love.” I still believe this, and I just can’t seem to walk away. It is coming time to make the decision if I am going to run yet again. You would think it would be an easy decision, but it is not. It was hard in ways I did not expect. Yet, the pull of this protective passion is something I cannot ignore.

I am beginning to see, it’s who I am and what I came to this world to do. I love to learn, and I love adventure. This is how I chose to see my path. This year’s motto will be; “My work feels like fun all the time!” Because that’s how it feels when you do what you love! Stacy says this is because I am following my Dharma. It sure feels like I am being ‘called’ so maybe she is right.

Getting elected to the Board of the Friends of Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge last January has given me opportunity to keep putting my time and energy towards my environmental and community supporting passions. It’s been a wonderful experience that also allows me to share the skills and grow connections I’ve learned from campaigning. So cool how that worked out!

This past year my friend and I came very close to finishing our book series. We really almost did it! Then just feet from the finish line, when it came time to become business partners, it was clear we were not able to do so. Turns out we would rather be friends, than colleagues! We both walked away from years of collaborative creative work as Adventure Sisters, to go our separate ways.

It was an unexpected turn of events but, I believe this also has happened for our highest good. It now leaves me the ability to be creatively authentic and more faithful to myself. I will be able to write about what I wish instead of within the confinement of a partner’s expectations. I really do believe it is for the best. We are still friends, and this is what matters the most.

I am thankful for the journeys we took together and the encouragement we shared with one another during this process. It’s a blessing to have the ability to make tough decisions and put friendship first when it came down to it. It’s best to find out before you get in too deep and that’s what happened.

We both have a different path, and that is okay! I already have started another creative project that excites me and keeps me passionately pursuing my publishing dreams. If it is meant to be, it will be! I am thankful for my friend because she believed in me and encouraged me to write years all those years ago.

Without our friendship and this joint journey, I may have been too insecure to pursue my writing dream. We would have missed out on all the fun we had doing so! It was this same friend who also encouraged to push through my fear to pursue a political path. Now, look! I can’t stop writing or the pull of political passion if I wanted too! They are in my soul and what I love.

I am thankful for all these round-about experience even if they did not play out like I thought they would. This seemed to be the theme for year 42. This year has taught me to embrace my independence, follow my dreams, and the tug of my soul. These lessons in independence gave me the confidence and courage to do the work when it comes to fulfilling my needs.

I even took a solo trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness this summer! #SavetheBoundaryWaters! Never in a million years did I think I could or would, and I did! I am so proud of me. I don’t know how I became so brave. I think it just maybe one of the most valued traits I’ve come to possess! They say when women get older, we get bolder. This part of aging is darn fabulous if you ask me.

I love growing older! I’ve embraced the silver in my hair and the wisdom that comes from my mistakes. Aging is a blessing. I am grateful for the time I’ve been given to learn, grow, and bloom into who I always knew I was. I am so much more than what you see. I realize that I don’t need to prove it to you. I need to show it to me!

If being in my forties means I get to release my fears, trusting the twist of my path, enjoying every minute of being alive and loving myself for who I am. Then I am good with that. This next year around the sun I am going to welcome new experiences, new lessons, be more open to making new connections. Expanding my circle of friends and making contacts that will help me make a ripple of hope in the web of life!

Self-doubt has no place in year 43 for me. “F’ it! Let’s try it and see what happens!” Sounds more my style anyway. This past year has allowed me to see this is my chance to grab the opportunities life has placed before me. I can choose to sit them out or jump in the deep end. We all know I’m the kind of gal who likes adventure so I guess we will see what the Creator has in store for me! I am excited just thinking about the possibilities.

One more thing I learned last year was the importance of balance. Love, Family, Self & Mind, Body, Spirit. These are all important and require my time and attention before they go rogue. I know which ones need attention because I feel it. This year also gave me a lot of time to relax, reflect and really get in touch with my own needs.

It’s no secret there is lots of time that matters laying in between the ‘big stuff’ that needs tending to. Life can be demanding and crazy, but great when we let it! I have realized how vital it is to listen to my inner knowing and the tug of my soul. It’s not always easy, but it’s still worth it! I am worth it. I am beyond thankful for this blessing of time that allowed me this solace.

I want to thank you for understanding when I don’t blog as often as I have been. I know I’ve been slowing down on blogging significantly, but it’s because I’ve been busy chasing my dreams, living a life I love, enjoying my husband, family, and friends while working at smashing my goals.

Along with working, building my business, volunteering, being a wife, mother and taking care of my own needs! This all takes time and effort. So, when I do write, I trust it is because I am being called to do so. I hope that when I post, you find it educational, entertaining, and worth your time.

My goal is to share these lessons with you as I learn them, in hopes you can be entertained and educated from my crazy life! I promise not to portray myself as perfect. I am far from it. My dreams are to share the real me, the soul inside that is following the tugs of my heart. This is what it means to me to feel 43.

Thank you for reading my blog for sharing my life lessons and adventures with me! I appreciate your support and encouragement beyond measure!

Sending joy and blessings to you,

Love, Emy Minzel

 

Visit me at :

EmyMinzel.com

EmyMinzel.AdventureSister@gmail.com

@EmyMinzel