Tag: #authenticallyyou

www.AdventurewithEmyandStacy.com

@EmyMinzel

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Stacy Crep ~ Adventure Sister

Photos 3_17_2017 435 — I saw a face in this board we purchase to make a shelf with. Instead of cutting it up, I used a torch to bring the face to life!

Photos 3_17_2017 1074 — after woodfiring

Photos 3_17_2017 421 — My husband helped me build this beautiful bench out of an antique head board and foot board.

Photos 3_17_2017 1136 — I like to refinish lamps I call ‘brass beauties’ this is a before picture.

lamp 3 — I even redid the fabric on the shade of this renewed brass beauty!

lamp 5 — Another revamped lamp and I made the map and woodfired board behind it as well.

Photos 3_17_2017 128 — An old picture of my garden that was once in top form! I need to get back to this again!

‘Authentically me.’

October 24, 2018October 23, 2018 emyminzel

Stacy’s husband, Marty, has been contributing to our Adventure Sisters’ literary adventures by helping edit our blogs. Stacy and I are writers, not editors, totally different beast. Marty says he’s no editor, just a hack trying to help out (He added this remark! He’s a funny guy too!) We still appreciate his help very much.

I tell you this because he had mentioned that he noticed my use of the phrase “authentically me”. It is one of my favorites along with “Protect what you love”, which I put on my campaign t-shirts. He said we should make an T-shirt that says “authentically me” and I absolutely love the idea. He even worked up some ideas.

I would like to tell you the back story on how I learned to be “authentically me.” It comes from my mother who used to be a little rough around the edges. My mom raised me by herself. Well mostly, she was a single mom who got help looking after me from her parents, siblings and good friends. Friends, who I still think of as family today. She was kind but tough, with a heart was large as Lake Superior, but a bullshit meter with a hair trigger.

Mom would often say what was on her mind in front of anyone. Especially if they deserved it or just plain needed to hear the truth. She has softened somewhat with age, but still has her opinions, as we all do. My mom was fluent in profanity and handed the linguistic skills of a sailor down to her daughter. I used to be annoyed when people would tell me how much I am like my mom, but now I am very proud to hear it.

My mom is a strong woman, who has not had an easy life. She was the oldest of five siblings and was depended on to help raise them. She was a mother hen very early in life. People thought she was bossy. I have come to find out that ‘bossiness’ means she cares. She taught me the value of a good work ethic and loyalty. She taught me that, even if you don’t want to do something, sometimes you just have to anyway. Sometimes, the hardest and the right thing, are the same.

My mom was the perfect example of someone who knows how to love unconditionally. She taught me it is okay to fight. It is okay to get mad. It is okay to hash it out but in the end… we still are family and you are still loved. My mom taught me the value and grace of unconditional love and let me tell you, I tested those limits plenty. I could be a stinker! I was a good girl, when I was younger. I got good grades but I would do rebellious things, just for the thrill of it. I made her worry a lot. I do feel bad for this now.

Mom is an outgoing person most of the time. She taught me the importance of being social and caring for those around you. When it is time for a party, she’s the first one to show up with food and treats and the last one to leave. That’s because she’s the one helping you clean up. Just like most of us, my mom can be hard to like occasionally. She doesn’t pull any punches and I appreciate her frankness. After all, I would rather know the truth about someone’s feelings and beliefs, than some sugar-coated BS. My mom is a straight shooter and I have tried to be the same because I respect that in her.

There were times that I would be mad at my mom in my younger years, for being over protective. Although I can’t blame her, at times I bet it was like trying to tame a wild horse; raising this free spirit! Yet, looking back now that I have been a mom and concerned for my own daughter, I see what made her act in that way.

A mother’s love is fierce, impenetrable and often unable to be expressed in a way that is easy to understand. As with most mother daughter relationships, we’ve had our ups and downs. I now realize the downs were there to help us learn from one another and appreciate who we were becoming.

It’s tough when your relationship changes, because YOU change.

I am not a free spirited ‘know it all’ teenager anymore. I have learned it is hard to let go of the pieces of your baby that you cherish. Sometimes you just want them to stay the same. Life has a way of helping us mature, even while our relationships lag behind. This causes growing pains, but it is for the best. I find that we get along much better now that we can appreciate each other for who we truly are.

Authentically me. Authentically her. I learned from my mom to accept that I am perfectly imperfect. If by chance someone does not appreciate my authentic self… well… that’s okay. Or like Gena (mom) would say “F’ em.” Because I have learned to love and accept myself and that is what matters. I have to live with myself every day. I know who I am inside and out and that others only see a snapshot.

I have learned its okay to make mistakes because the important people in my life, know that I am human, and they love me anyway. I like to give others the same courtesy. I learned that from my mom also and she learned it from her mom. I have learned my family ‘rocks my face off with awesomeness’ and I need to put more time and appreciation in now. I learned that lesson the hard way with losing my grandparents and having things left unsaid.

She taught me to say what you need to say. Trust in your own voice. As Gena says: “This is the only voice I got!” If you know her… you are laughing right now but you know you love her too. I feel blessed that she taught me by example how to speak up for myself, to know my voice and opinion matter as much as anyone else’s.

I am thankful to have been blessed with a mom who loved and supported me through all the growing pains. Never once was she not there for me. Another life lesson not to take for granted! I am so thankful for my mom, husband, daughter, family and friends who love me. The real me; inside and out. Authentically me. I love you guys!

What helps you stay authentically you?

What keeps you grounded in your purpose? Please share your thoughts! I really would love to hear from you.

Emy Minzel ~ Adventure Sister

EmyforHouse.com

@EmyforHouse15A

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Stacy Crep ~ Adventure Sister

Summer of Hope

September 18, 2018 emyminzel

There are about seven weeks left in the Campaign season and I am feeling conflicted. Half of me is ready for some rest. While the other half will really miss the excitement and energy Candidacy has brought to my life. This summer was a much different type of adventure then I was expecting or planning for.

When January 2018 rolled in, I was planning my BWCA trip and all the summery things I wanted to do and making sure they went on the calendar. Three months later I threw my hat into the political ring and it all was put on hold, so I could direct my time and energy to the State House of Representatives Campaign adventure!

I believe to be called “adventure” there must be a great deal of excitement, fun, and just a hint of uncertainty (or fear) to round out the experience so that it helps you feel fully alive. I believe the campaign trail has been full of these characteristics for me. The uncertainty of not knowing what I was getting into (because I have never run before) was very scary at times.

Still, I allowed myself to follow my heart and not be detoured by fear. Even though there were times I was fearful, I was also certain this divinely guided civic escapade, was exactly what I was supposed to be doing this summer.

Once I had dedicated myself to this political path, I started to experience the excitement that others brought to the campaign trail. The friends and supporters I have met; have made this summer adventure a whole lot of fun! The people on my campaign team have turned into friends I adore. Other DFL Candidates I have met, my supporters and mentors, have made this unpredictable race that much more fun and interesting.

I have had the opportunity, for a great educational experience, by being deeply immersed in the social studies of District 15A. I have enjoyed learning from the genuine and kind people I met door knocking. I am thankful for other leaders in my community reaching out to share their knowledge with me. I am thankful for regular folks sharing their sometimes-painful stories with me. They express their hope that I can help once elected.

I am humbled when others feel comfortable enough with me to discuss private issues that they may be facing or concerned about. They are reaching out knowing I truly wish to do what I can help them in some way. I am thankful for friends and supporters who ask me questions and offer their genuine opinions as well. My heart swells with the pride knowing that I am doing my best to bring hope and light to my community.

This spring when I decided to run, I was scared. Six months later, now at the end of the summer, I have experienced a whole mess of emotions since. From fearful and uncertain in March to September, where I have settled into the feelings of empowerment and fearlessness. I am going to give it all I’ve got!

I will do my best, to be my best, every day! I will live with my heart on my sleeve because that’s where I like to keep it. I won’t be ashamed about wearing it there either, because that’s me! I have decided I will be authentically me, so I can be the best me I can be.

I had once called this year a ‘bummer summer’ because I didn’t get to escape to the wilderness or take the vacation I had originally planned. (I know. I know. Boo Hoo… spoiled girl problems hey?) Once, those words came out of my mouth, I knew immediately that was so WRONG! This summer has been nothing but absolutely amazing! I will never, ever have this first-time candidate experience again! I must enjoy the now.

I was able to make such a bunch of wonderful friends that it felt, very much like finding my soul tribe, when I jumped on this political path. Finding people who care about the world around them like I do, was an epiphany. I saw that they saw me as hope.

They wanted me to be the walking, talking hope and guiding light of positive change. They want me to be the person who works hard as their District Representative to make their lives and community better. Even though there’s a great deal of work and sacrifice, it has also been a heart-opening experience and so darn exciting in many ways.

This summer taught me I really want to give my community someone to believe in too.

This summer has taught me that I am the person capable of offering hope that I wanted to believe in all along.

This summer has asked me to step up and own that I am the one that I have been waiting for!

This summer has been empowering and very full of hope!

I would not change these experiences or lessons that have changed my feelings about myself and my original plan for the year. I am so open and trusting of this path, I know that I have already won.

This summer’s Lesson’s through Joy, have me hanging on to hope.

Did this summer offer you any life lessons?! I would love to hear them!

Wishing you an abundance of joyful blessings,

Emy Minzel ~ Adventure Sister

EmyforHouse.com

@EmyforHouse15A

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Stacy Crep ~ Adventure Sister

Be Brave, be heard.

July 24, 2018July 23, 2018 emyminzel

I’ve found that growth is often not sought out, it is often forced upon us, whether we like it or not. It seems, at times, I think I want something, but the Universe offers me a different path. Fairly recently, I was minding my own business, working at my home to grow my own food. Nurturing sustainable practices and building a business of working from the home, that I love so much, oh and to finish our Adventure Sisters books! This was my path until just five months ago.

Clearly my path has veered left quite literally, and I am now on a political journey. It was my love of the earth and the call to protect our environment that got me into the position I am now. It is the adjustment period that is uncomfortable for me; conflicting my mind with buts, what ifs, and doubts. It is hard to trust the path in front of you when I’ve not been on this course before and I don’t know where it leads.

I’m realizing that sometimes I try to gather courage from others around me, looking for their support and encouragement. It all feels nice, but that is only false courage that is fleeting. I know that real bravery must come from within myself. Life seems to be a giving me a lesson on conjuring courage by asking me to walk most of this path alone. I do have really great help, but mostly what we decided to do is all up to me.

To effectively lead; I know I must be courageous, fearless, and passionate about where and why I am doing what I am. Inside, I feel like the hermit holding a lantern of light, guiding followers to a brighter future. This is my goal. To do what I can to foster in a kind, safe and healthy world around me. I understand that money is an important part of life, yet I also know that money is not worth destroying our environment and endangering our health.

I have enjoyed most of this new journey, especially all the great people in my community I get to meet! Yet, for an introverted homebody such as myself, this path is very opposite of my comfort zone and can (at times) be a bit overwhelming. Mostly when I don’t give myself time to unwind or take care of my needs. This is when the feeling of emotional exhaustion seeps into my spirit. I must do better at taking time to care for myself.

Great words of advice… I feel I am full of great wisdom that I sometimes refuse to follow. So I am calling myself out to get to it. Practicing what I preach. To learn how to believe in myself so fully that I can stand at the top of a mountain or at the microphone of any podium and speak from my heart for the greater good of every living being, not just myself. My goal is to speak for those who cannot speak (or are not able to represent themselves) in Congress.

Truthfully, this is one of the things that led me to running for office. I was feeling fed up, frustrated and angry that my voice was not being heard where it matters most. I thought to myself, if you won’t listen to what I have to say as a constituent, I will come knock on the door of the Capital to ask, “Do you hear me now?” The Universe saw me holding that hand of cards and called my bluff and Ta Da! Here I am! Isn’t it funny how synchronicities put you where you put your energy?

Look at that! I just called myself out again. This week has been hard. I am feeling very resistant to some parts of campaigning. Most parts I enjoy and even the work feels good. Yet I feel that, in my experience and somewhere deep down in my subconscious, I had come to believe that powerful people are bad people. Deep down I have felt that powerful politicians do not care about us people in the real world and (because of this) I didn’t respect or like many of them at all.

Here I am. Trying to become a gosh darn politician, because I do not like how it’s being done! I want it to be different, to be meaningful and use that ‘power’ for good. To help people and those beings without a voice. My goal is to use that powerful influence for the people we are supposed to represent and not make rules that benefit only corporate interest.

I want to defend our future from the pilfering of Social Securities and other Compassion programs that allow us to grow old and retire with dignity. To be sure that tax dollars are spent on people who pay them and that our “welfare programs” benefit people not oil companies or the giant monopolized industries that seem to have taken over our small business communities.

This month all of these wants, and goals are feeling very heavy. I am only me; a wife, a mother, a regular gal. The weight and the work of these dreams seems to have me all jumbled up in details. Making my efforts seem like I am walking through deep mud to make any progress. Making the saying this too shall pass, feel, well… like I am currently passing a kidney stone of life.

Such is life though, isn’t it? Some days are much easier than others. I will keep on putting one-foot in front of the other. At the same time, I am doing my best to enjoy the journey, the people, and the experiences while in pursuit of the destination. I am doing my best to be brave, enthusiastic and committed to goals of social and environmental justice that got me here in the first place.

Does anyone else have a hard time building self-confidence when life gets heavy? How do you deal with difficult and lonely experiences? I try to reach out to my friends and family for support, but they cannot grow my courage for me, that is an inside job. Just like nurturing my own happiness. Nobody can do it for me but me.

It is always a little scary walking a new path for the first time. I am having real human emotions that most first-time candidates usually have. It is normal to have an adjustment period for any new endeavor we embark on. Wouldn’t it be great if I could really let go and let God? To truly trust this path the Universe has guided me to. To trust that my experiences are for my greatest and highest good. To learn from and grow to a deeper understanding of this divinely guided experience that is indeed part of my soul’s journey is my goal.

Thank you for reading my blog. I wish you lesson’s through joy on your life path this summer!

Wishing you an abundance of joyful blessings,

Emy Minzel ~ Adventure Sister

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Stacy Crep ~ Adventure Sister

What do you think you deserve?

April 25, 2018April 25, 2018 emyminzel

Do you think that you deserve a happy, and true lasting love you can feel deep in your soul? Do you think you deserve a career that is rewarding and makes you feel good about what you do? Do you think that you deserve a life full of family and friends that cherish, love and respect you? Do you feel comfortable in uniqueness you have to offer the world?

I think I do deserve these things, I think you do too! I know that when I decided to get serious about what and who I allow myself to spend time and energy on that is when my life seemed to bloom. When I was much younger I would keep myself small since being authentically me, would make others uncomfortable. I was not like them. I see now how we are all different on purpose.

I have never fit in well, not in high school and not in the crowd I used to run with. Although I masked it well. I am different for a reason, I was not supposed to conform. I was supposed to be uncomfortable enough to move on. I was being guided and called to do better and be better by this knowing that I didn’t belong.

It wasn’t fun or comfortable to try to fit myself into a crowd that didn’t get me. Now I found people who celebrate me, and that feels much better. I decided to up my game, find people who have higher aspirations for life to be around, to be inspired by. I chose to spend my time with people who love my uniqueness, my ambitions and celebrate them instead of picking on me for dreaming big.

There are well-intentioned friends or family that freely express their concern for my bold actions. They show me their fears laying them on my lap, as if I should also be scared or fearful of the same things they are. Some people certainly do not want you to succeed beyond what they think you should or could. Because they don’t think they deserve it for themselves so why should you? I have learned to be weary of those people and see it in myself when I share my fears. It is masked as concern, but it is fear.

What do you do when the people who are closest to you are the ones that don’t like you taking chances or being raw and authentically you? What do you do when other people’s insecurities are pushed on you clearly dulling your shine? My answer is simple.

Don’t allow it.

Don’t give up!

Shine baby shine!

Know that you deserve to chase your dreams, you deserve to live your life in the way you want! You deserve to life fully and as hard as you wish to push yourself! Do not let the fears of others keep you from living your dreams even if they scare you and them.

Knowing that you will be okay if you fall is also a game changer. Being brave enough to try while knowing you just might biff it, is heroic in my mind! I have discovered how to march solo to the beat of my own drum.

I don’t need to carry other’s fears or expectations. I have learned to minimize the comments from the peanut gallery in the bleachers, the one’s not in the game.

When other’s opinions of how I should live are quieted; I can hear my heart speak. Asking me if life is good enough to stay the same? My heart leads me to the places and people that help me grow. It leads me to move careers, it led me to leave unfulfilling relationships for better ones. My heart leads me to live my life purpose of helping others.

My heart whispers to stay calm when I am being brave and bold.

I trust myself to know intuitively where to go next, I trust my heart to keep me safe and happy. Even in the uncomfortableness of blooming out of the tight and safe bud I was keeping myself in. I know that I deserve to feel fulfilled in all areas of my life, including relationships, career and love.

I also know that to open your heart to others, being vulnerable enough to show the real you, is super scary. We all feel that way sometimes, but is it worth it to keep yourself small or build walls around your heart just incase you may get hurt?

Or is it better to be the best version of you, you can possibly be? Is it really that scary to open you heart and love so big that the moon might feel it? What if that feeling isn’t returned? What if you try to reach your goals and you fail?

I say; So what?!

We are all unique for a reason, find the people and situations that celebrate and appreciate the authenticity you bring to the table or you will never find contentment. If it was meant to be it will be.

Find the courage to accept yourself just the way you are, be bold in chasing your dreams. Find the will to overcome your fears and the fears of others. Be valiant enough to ask others to accept you just as you are.

Be brave in the way you love, have courage to live your life in the way you want to be remembered. Be fearless in creating the story of your life. Don’t accept anything less then you deserve.

P.S. Give yourself permission to feel joy, excitement and happiness! You deserve it.
Wishing you an abundance of joyful blessings,

Emy Minzel ~ Adventure Sister

@emyforhouse15A

Follow the Adventure Sisters on Facebook!

Stacy Crep ~ Adventure Sister