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40 Hours on the Road

I got home yesterday night from a road trip with a good friend of mine and her daughter. It was a good opportunity to step outside of my daily routine and let my mind rest for a few days. A 40 hour round trip car ride leaves a lot of time to think.

 

I thought a lot about family, friends, and life.

 

Why am I so mean to that one friend of mine?

Why did that person hurt my feelings?

Why don’t I spend more time with my dad?

Why do I care so much about the little things?

How am I going to get everything done that I need to get done?

Do the people in my life know how much they mean to me?

Do I mean just as much to them?

What can I do to help with world issues?

Why do people like the things they like?

How can I be more patient with other people?

How am I going to arrange my new apartment?

Who’s going to help me move?

How do I become more confident with being me?

Why am I so shy sometimes?

Should I get red Adidas or save my money?

__________________________________________________________________________________

 

I think I take my best friend for granted sometimes, she’s one of the nicest and most loyal people I’ve ever met.

Life is about people and experiences.

I want to learn about people and perspectives more.

I’m so much happier when I’m nice to other people.

I need to help people more often.

I love to learn new things.

I should read more.

I’m not looking forward to starting my summer class.

I am blessed with such a loving family.

I love my family so much.

I love my friends so much.

I love my mom.

My grandma is the most beautiful person I have ever met.

My cabin is my favorite place on earth.

Coffee is the best invention on the planet.

Life is so beautiful.

Music makes life beautiful.

Art makes life beautiful.

I’m so happy I’m sober.

Seriously, I’m so grateful I got sober.

Thank you for the life I have.

 

-Connie K.

Sober Things to do This Fourth of July

         

          It’s time to make some new, sober traditions for the holidays. The fourth of July can be hard, but keeping busy is sure to make the day go by smoothly. If you don’t have plans yet, here is a good list of things you can do to keep your fourth eventful, exciting, and sober.

1. Spend the day at the beach.

Bring food, friends, and sunscreen. Soak in the vitamin D. Get a group together to play beach volleyball, or throw a frisbee with a friend. As of right now, the weather report forA beach with clear water. July 4th is sunny and 85 degrees; a perfect beach day. Some beaches in the areas have rentals, so renting a kayak or paddleboat could be really fun. Some beaches in the area include Lake Calhoun North Beach, Cedar Lake East Beach, and Lake Nokomis Main Beach; if you type them in on Google Maps it will give you an address.

2. Try a more adventurous water activity.

Going to the beach is a very calming activity, but if you’ve had a few energy drinks and you feel like driving a little further, you could do something more entertaining. Get a group of friends and go to the quarries in St. Cloud; a place with cliffs and a lake where you can safely go cliff jumping.

3. Red, White, and Boom.

Red, White and Boom is a celebration hosted by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. It is free and open to the public. There is live music, family activities, and food from 6pm-10pm. There’s three different places where there will be live music; Mill Ruins Park, Boom Island Park, and Father Hennepin Bluff Park. For those of you who don’t know, these are all on either side of the Stone Arch Bridge. Each year the celebration ends with fireworks at 10pm, which will be very visible from the Stone Arch.

Children and adults, roadside, wearing red, white, and blue.
4. 4th in The Park.

4th in The Park is the only Fourth of July parade in St. Paul and one of the longest running parades in Minnesota. Enjoy the colorful parade and stake out a patch of grass to enjoy an afternoon of music and games. Most of the events are at Luther Place or the Langford Park Recreation Center. If you’re interested, check out the schedule for the day and more information about the event

5. Attend a parade in the suburbs.

If you will be out of Minneapolis, or want to get out of Minneapolis this fourth, there is a long list of suburbs that have events going on as well. Cities all around the twin cities are having their own firework display, parade, and festivals. A twin cities website has a list of cities, information, and times for the events

6. Check out the MNYPAA event this Saturday, July 2nd.

MNYPAA is hosting a summer cookout for young people in recovery this weekend! If you are busy on the 4th, this event could possibly make up for it. There will be food and games; volleyball, basketball, frisbee, giant jenga, bean bags, and more! There will also be a meeting at 7:30 along with a raffle and prizes. The event is from 5pm-9pm at Riverside Park (2700 S 8th St).

7. Go to Valleyfair!

Open 10am-11pm thisThe top of a ride at Valleyfair. Fourth of July. You can get coupons on admission tickets at Cub or Taco Bell; and the prices are also discounted after 4pm. I hadn’t been to Valleyfair in years until recently; I went with a group of sober friends and had a super fun time walking around and being terrified of all the rides. If you go, make sure you bring an even number so no one has to ride the rides alone. Also, they aregoing to end the night with fireworks this July 4th, starting at 9:50pm.

8. Stop by Como Zoo.

Como Zoo is free and open everyday of the year from 10am – 6pm. It’s not too far from campus and I know as a college student I love to do things that are free. They have a lot of animals and also some rides. If you have a younger sibling or cousin or something like that, you could take them. It always makes me smile to see kids enjoying their time, and they would love it! You might, too.

Large bonfire on the beach.9. Have a bonfire.

Music, friends, s’mores… A bonfire is the perfect end to your fourth of July. Since you can’t have a fire on campus, having a friend in the area would be the perfect amenity in this instant. I’ve looked long and hard online to find public bonfire pits in Minneapolis with very little results. It looks light there might be some at Minnehaha Falls, but that is not for sure. I found a ton in St. Paul, though, which isn’t too far. Como Regional Park, Crosby Farm Regional Park, Hidden Falls Regional Park, Highland Park, Newell Park, and Phalen Regional Park are some of the ones I came up with. Just bring your own firewood and chairs!

10. FIREWORKS.

Is it really July 4th if you don’tSeveral fireworks in the night sky. watch a fireworks show? The “Red, White, and Boom” festival that I mentioned earlier is having a fireworks show at 10pm. They are getting shot off from Water Power Park, and will be visible all along the Mississippi River. Popular places to view this show are from the Stone Arch Bridge, Boom Island Park, Gold Medal Park, The Guthrie, Powderhorn Park, Lake Calhoun or any place along the river. St. Paul will have a display following the Saints Game, which will be visible from the CHS Field.

          I hope I gave you a few ideas that could help make your fourth of July fun and sober. If you’re starting to feel a little uneasy, you know you can always find a meeting pretty much any time of day on the intergroup websiteHave a happy fourth everyone!

 

-Connie K.

 

10 Little Things You Can Do To Make Someone Else’s Day Better

We all live busy lives, which can make it hard to set aside time to do something nice for someone else.

I believe the little things you do for someone can be just as helpful and uplifting as the big things. I also believe it is very important to take time out of your day for other people. When someone does something genuinely nice and unexpected for me, it always makes me stop and have an overwhelming feeling of gratitude. It’s always a good reminder to know that you are loved and cared for by other people.

Here’s a short list of little things you can do for someone to make their day better:

  • A cup of coffee.Bring coffee to your best friendI don’t think anything would make me feel better than if I woke up to my best friend knocking on my door with a fresh Vanilla Iced Nirvana from Dunn Brothers. That’s why you should do it for your best friend, because they would probably feel the same way. A fresh cup of coffee and showing your best friend that you care can be a perfect way to start your morning.

 

 

 

Thank you note.

  • Write a thank you note to someone who has had an impact on your life. This is a great way to show someone that you are genuinely grateful for what they’ve done for you. Handwritten notes are more impactful because it shows that you took time to do write out your thoughts about the person; while a text is quick, easy, and can be interpreted as less genuine in my opinion. Often times we take for granted people that have helped us, and their helpful spirit goes unnoticed or unappreciated. Writing a note can remind someone they are appreciated and lift their spirit, as well as yours.

 

  • A hand holding a bouquet of flowers. Surprise someone with flowers. Whether it’s your parents, grandparents, aunt, or just a friend; it will make their day to see someone they love surprise them with flowers. You don’t even have to spend money. You can pick flowers yourself and find a small vase. I don’t think it’s ever the flowers that really matter, it’s the thought that went into them. Since you’re in college now, you probably don’t see your family as much and they would probably be very happy to see you stop by.

 

 

 

  • A merging sign in traffic. Let someone merge in traffic. I often get mad while driving, but it’s generally very exaggerated because I’m alone in a car and I can yell if I want to and no one will know. Regardless, it doesn’t really make anyone happy when no one will let them merge, or when someone cuts them off. Instead of making someone happy directly, this is more of a way you can prevent a stranger from having negative feelings; which is an act of kindness in itself. Although it will most likely go unnoticed and possibly unappreciated, you can have a piece of mind inside that you intentionally helped someone out today.

 

  • A pile of several postcards. Send a postcard to an out-of-town loved one. I personally have a lot of family that lives out of town, that I don’t get to see very often, but love more than anything. It’s hard to keep in contact with people who live really far away, but sending a postcard can be a quick and easy way to send them positive vibes. Also, the mail is generally filled with bills and advertisements, so imagine the excitement they would get when they see a note from a loved one in the midst of all the other things.

 

  • Two friends holding hands on a dirt road. Invite someone that’s going through a hard time to go on an adventure with you.The most important time to let someone know you care is when they are going through a hard time. If they need support and help getting out of their own head, invite them to do something fun with you; a bike ride, a walk around the lake, or some hiking. Spending time with someone is a great way to let them know you care. Also, that would be a very good opportunity to ask them how they’re doing and see if you can do anything to help.

 

 

  • A woman smiling.Smile to everyone that walks by. I know it might be awkward and hard at first, but I feel like it’s a very special experience when a stranger walks by you and doesn’t act like they don’t see you or that you don’t exist. It is very uplifting when a stranger walks by and acknowledges your presence and existence, and chooses to smile and say hi. Some might not appreciate it, but I tend to appreciate it a lot; especially because it’s hard for me to do. It is such a small thing, but can be so impactful because it takes 3 seconds to do but it shines a small amount of love that you can take and pass on to someone else as well.

 

  • Three fingers with faces drawn on them. Reach out to an old friend. It is easy to get caught up in your new life, with your new friends, and forget about memories you’ve shared with other people. Reaching out to an old friend to meet up or just see how they’re doing is a great way to show them you still care. I always light up when I get a text from an old friend. It reminds me of where I’ve been and it’s a reminder of the huge support network I have.

 

 

  • A person in a sweater working on crafts.Make something for your parents. Paint something! Or if you aren’t artistically inclined, bake them something. Parents love homemade things and chances are, they haven’t got anything homemade from you in a long time (if you’re in college). Your mom or dad might not have a reason to bake anymore since you’ve gone off to college, and who doesn’t like baked goods. Your parents would most likely really appreciate a piece of original art from their child, as well. They would hang it with pride and think of you when they saw it.

 

  • A piece of paper that reads "Free Compliment" following a list of compliments.Compliment a stranger, instead of just thinking it. Stranger compliments, to me, are the most genuine, because strangers really don’t have much to gain from saying something nice to you. One time a little girl, around 5 years old, came up to me and told me I was pretty then walked away. It was completely unprompted by anyone she knew, and it made me so happy; not that she said I was pretty but that such a little kid intuitively knew the importance of doing little things to make people smile. A compliment can go along way, too, because we don’t really give them out too often.

 

I would like to end this post with part of a quote that a fellow student of mine read during writing class one day, that has impacted me and the way that I think. “And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same,” a quote from Coach Carter. When we show other people love, we show other people that it’s okay to do, and we start a cycle of good deeds.

Thanks for reading.

 

Connie K.

Student Spotlight: Bobby W.

 

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Robert Michael John Witt, but everyone calls me Bobby. I’m from St. Paul, Minnesota. I’m 21 years old, and I’m studying Marketing and Business Management at Augsburg. I have 3 brothers, but I grew up with my two cousins and lived with my aunt and uncle for most of my life.

 

What are your plans after graduation?

My main focus once I leave school is to do something in the public relations field; probably work as a copywriter for a public relations or advertising agency. I’d like to do something to get my name out there. I’ve also considered some management on the side to gain some experience. I currently work at a restaurant and I’ve already worked my way up one step, so hopefully by graduation I’ll be offered a management position. My dream is to one day open up my own restaurant. Creating my own menus, hiring people, designing the restaurant; everything like that.

 

"I decided after I got sober this time that I was going to do everything I always wanted to do but thought I couldn't, because using always got in the way."What would your restaurant be like?

I want to do lots of different things. I want to have four different, limited menus. A Mexican menu, an American menu, a French menu, and a Mediterranean-style menu. Whatever they were in the mood for, people could always come to my restaurant. They could have a new experience each time.

 

What is your passion; what drives you?

I feel happiest when I’m cooking, that’s my number one thing. Time always flies by when I cook, I really enjoy it. Other than that, I like finding new things to do. I’ve been practicing piano, learning Spanish, and exploring new hobbies. I think it’s because I spent years wasting my life and not doing anything productive. I don’t feel like I need to make up for those times exactly, but I want to realize my true potential. There’s so many things I want to do that I can’t do if I’m drinking. If I stay sober, I’ll continue to realize my potential. I’m trying to realize as much I can about myself and continue to grow in every aspect; whether it be financially, emotionally, or with relationships – learning how to take care of myself and others.

What brought you to Augsburg?

StepUP. Specifically, the idea of being in a community where everybody is sober, because I never had that before and I wanted to try something new. Everytime I’ve tried to be sober before, I’ve surrounded myself with people who weren’t sober, and with my family, who still uses. I wanted to completely cut myself off from that environment, and try to embrace a new environment.

I have never been to college before Augsburg. I always thought that I wasn’t smart enough to go to school or that I would never be able to afford it. I decided after I got sober this time that I was going to do everything I always wanted to do but thought I couldn’t, because using always got in the way. I took a small step and applied for school, then another small step and applied for financial aid, then the biggest step for me was actually showing up – taking classes and figuring out that I can be a college student.

 

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I’m proud that I am where I am. A year and a half ago, my biggest problem was figuring out how I could afford alcohol and rent or how I was going to manage hanging out with friends. I couldn’t maintain friendships or relationships with my family or God because of my drinking.

Now all those things don’t matter. My biggest problem today are normal people problems; making car payments, getting enough fiber in my diet, and trying to impress my boss so I can be noticed. I’ve kept a job for more than a year, which is awesome, because that was a big problem when I was using too. I couldn’t hold down a job, and now I’m doing all of those things. I have healthy friendships and I like where I’m at.

 

Has anyone in StepUP positively influenced you?

A friend that has really influenced me is Caleb. I didn’t know what friendship was until I became friends with Caleb. We disagree on almost everything, but we are still able to maintain a friendship through it. We spend time with together, help each other get jobs, motivate each other in school, always push each other, and he’s always there for me. It’s really amazing.

The person I look up to most, though, has got to be Blake H. He does it all; he works a good program, he’s always in a good mood, he’s nice, he’s happy, he works out, he’s got a job, he does great in school, he’s very active in StepUP. That’s who I want to be like at the end of the day.

 

What does StepUP mean to you?"Don't try to hide, just be yourself. No matter what, you will be accepted here."

StepUP has become my new family. It’s not my family of origin, but it’s my family circle. When I’m here, it’s home. When I’m at work I say, “I can’t wait to get home.” I’ve had a lot of houses in my life, because with my mom we were always getting kicked out, having to move, or just bouncing back and forth between my aunt’s house and my mom’s house.

It took a while, but this place has become my home and it’s where I want to be at the end of the day. I think it’s because of the people that are here; the support that I get, the comfort, and how I know how everyone is going to be sober at the end of the day. There’s a wonderful staff here that is always there if I need anything, whether it’s emotional support, financial support or someone to help remind me why I’m doing this. I’ve got StepUP.

 

What advice would you give to an incoming StepUP student?

Let your counselor know you. I know it’s the scariest thing in the world to open yourself up to someone that you don’t know, but ultimately they’re here to help you. The more they know about you, the more they can try to not only embrace everything you’re trying to accomplish, but also challenge you to be a better person. If you tell them everything; the good and the bad, they can help you emphasize the good and decrease the bad.

Also, let your friends know you. Don’t try to hide, just be yourself. No matter what, you will be accepted here. That was my problem when I first got here; I was antisocial and I didn’t try to connect with anyone, because I was so used to being alone. It’s a way better feeling knowing that you have people here and that you fit in, no matter what.

 

Any last thoughts?

I’m glad I showed up. I would also like to add that I am extremely grateful for my higher power – none of this could have been possible for me without a higher power in my life.


Thanks, Bobby!

Connie’s Story

As many of you may know, alcoholism and mental illness can often go hand in hand.

I’ve struggled with depression since I was 15. My first year of college was scary, looking back on it scares me more because at the time I didn’t even realize how bad I was doing."Unfortunately, being sober and working a program doesn't make my depression disappear."

The fall of 2014 I started school at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. I felt very alone, as I knew no one in the area and only had made a few friends. I spent a lot of the year in my room, sleeping all day and skipping many of my classes. Suicidal thoughts were a daily occurrence, and I never talked to anyone about how I was feeling.  

I went into the year sober, but struggled to remain that way as every friend I made was an avid drinker or pot smoker. The night of October 27th I relapsed with a friend but was immediately pushed by my friends and parents to start going to AA. Fortunately, I did. I found an amazing sponsor and started working the steps, and have been sober ever since. Unfortunately, being sober and working a program doesn’t make my depression disappear.

Every day was a struggle to get up and do something. No one understood why I wouldn’t just focus on school and stop sleeping so much. I didn’t understand it either. I was constantly on the verge of tears and suicidal thoughts were literally constantly running through my head. It was so scary because I know I didn’t want to die, but the sadness was so overwhelmingly consuming I felt like there was nothing else I could do. It just kept getting worse.

My sponsor was definitely God sent. If I ever did open up to someone, it was her. She forced me to go to meetings, fellowship, and she could always tell when I was doing worse than normal; she would make me"I was stuck in Superior, alone with my thoughts. It was a scary place to be." spend the night with her those nights.

Things completely spiraled out of control on March 3rd, 2015, when I woke up to a phone call from my mom telling me that my older brother’s best friend, Alex, committed suicide the night before. He was only 21. He was very close to my family, and my whole family was completely devastated. It was so hard to go through, and it was so hard to watch my whole family go through. It made everything I was going through on my own, so much harder. I was stuck in Superior, alone with my thoughts. It was a scary place to be.

Fortunately, I was pushed by a friend to apply to the StepUP Program, and after some work I got the call that I was admitted. I remember that day being one of the best days I’d had in awhile. I immediately thanked God and Alex, as I felt strongly that they both had an influence on my admission.

I felt like I would be safer being closer to family and in an environment that was supportive of my sobriety. In Superior, none of the students were sober, all of my friends drank, and on the weekends, the residence halls were filled with people partying.

Joining StepUP has been one of my most life changing decisions. I didn’t expect any of the amazing things that have happened. It started off a little rocky, but I am a different person. The first day of orientation, I was literally shaking from anxiety. Today, I am beginning to see a light."I wake up knowing I have a whole community of support behind me, and that has been so important to me."

I have made the most amazing friends, I have started making healthy decisions, and I actually go to class and get decent grades. These steps may seem insignificant, but when you are in the grips of depression, these things are not easy.

I still have depression, I still have bad days, but it doesn’t consume my life anymore; and I am so grateful for that. I don’t know who to thank for this new-found hope: StepUP, God, or myself. I truly never thought that I would go through a day without wanting to end my life, but today, days pass where it doesn’t cross my mind. It makes me emotional, because I was so broken and I know I’m getting better and it’s a really good feeling.

I wake up knowing I have a whole community of support behind me, and that has been so important to me on this journey. I now know that things really can get better, which is something I never believed before. Thank you to my new friends and supporters who have helped me get to this point, I really don’t know where I would be today if it wasn’t for you all.

Rainy Day? Here’s some tips for fun activities!

You know when you plan your day full of fun outside activities and you get so excited, then you wake up the next morning and it’s raining?

 

This may be one of the many challenges you face this summer, as I feel like I’m constantly faced with this issue. My goal is to give you some ideas for activities to do when your outdoor plans are discontinued due to summer rain. Here it goes.

Silhouette of a person meditation on the beach.1. Go to (free) yoga.

Clear your mind and get exercise. You can pay for yoga if you want, but I’ve found some places that offer free yoga, because I’m a broke college student and I’m assuming you could be as well. Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association (821 E 35th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55407) offers a bunch of free yoga classes, almost every day of the week. Check out their website for more information. 

2. Check out an art museum. 

Art can be a good way to keep your mind active during a dreary and rainy day. The Minneapolis Institute of Art is free everyday. There is over three levels of almost every different kind of art you can think of; painting, sculptures, photographs. Also, the Weisman Art Museum is free and pretty close to the Augsburg campus.

 

Photo of an older man and woman smiling.3. Talk to your grandparents.

Personally, my grandma is one of my favorite people. I get really busy and caught up in life sometimes, though, and forget I should be spending time with her. A rainy day is a perfect day to get lunch with your grandparents, help them do some cleaning, or just hang out. They generally have an immense amount of life experience to share if you just ask them. If your grandparents don’t live around here, Skype or call them. Either way, they would probably love to hear from you.

 

4. Rent Purple Rain.

Minnesota’s beloved Prince tragically passed away this April. The whole city of Minneapolis was illuminated in purple the following weeks to honor his life. You can honor him, too, by renting the Academy Award winning movie Purple Rain. The movie stars Prince, and is loosely based on his life. I would give the movie 10/10 stars, considering I love Prince and cried when he sang Purple Rain at the end.

 

Silhouette of Prince with Purple Rain captioned in the middle.

 

5. Expand your music horizons.

Music is so important! Sometimes I get in a phase where I only listen to Drake, or I only listen to The Beatles, etc, etc. I think it’s important to listen to all types of music, though, not just one type. When I get caught up on one band, I go to the nearest Cheapo records, and go straight to the clearance CD section. They have a ton of CDs that are only 99 cents. I often find CD’s of a band I only know one or a few songs by. After I listen to them I usually end up really enjoying and appreciating them. While you’re there, walk around the rest of the store as well, they have tons of different kinds of music and band memorabilia that is cool to check out.

 

A Pair of red tennis shoes.6. Buy new shoes.

I really shouldn’t be suggesting this, considering I shop way too much (just ask my parents). Usually a rainy day starts giving you the feels, though, and what could make you feel better than a new pair of shoes? You could even order them online so you don’t even have to get out of bed. Here’s one of my favorite websites to get you started – Vans.  For the next rainy day, I’m thinking about a pair of maroon Vans.

 

7. Clean your space.

Who wants to spend a sunny day cleaning up their room because they can no longer get to their bed without a snow plow to plow through all the piled up dirty clothes that have been accumulating for weeks? Not me! Of course this exact scenario has never been a problem of mine, but I have seen this issue in Oren Gateway before. From the wise words of Jess Lambert, “Unclutter your space, unclutter your mind.”

 

Several books stacked vertically across the photograph.8. Read a Book.

Go to your nearest Half Priced Books, and get a cheap book to read for fun. I know since I’ve been in college I’ve done tons of reading that professors have assigned, but no recreational reading. Reading a book for fun could be a great way to actually be productive while still laying low on a rainy day. Plus, studies show that people who read are smarter and nicer than people who don’t, and who doesn’t want to be smarter and nicer?

 

 

9. Go Bowling! 

You get to wear ugly shoes and have fun with your friends. Memory Lanes is a bowling alley pretty close to Augsburg, but if you have the option check out Bryant Lake Bowl. You can order anything you want while you bowl, last time I was there I was eating french toast with one hand and bowling with the other. If you’re embarrassed or insecure about your bowling skills, just keep in mind that last time I went bowling I scored a 38.

 

Two colorful sushi rolls.10. Get Sushi.

There is nothing in this world better than sushi. In fact, you should get sushi even if it’s not raining. If you don’t feel like cooking and you’re hungry, though, get sushi. Osaka in Roseville has a sushi “Happy Hour” where most of the sushi rolls are half off. It’s Monday-Thursday, 7:00-9:30pm. Check it out! It’s pretty healthy and tastier than Nabo or the cafeteria.

 

Hopefully one of my suggestions appealed to you. It’s important to stay active on rainy days, because they can start to make you feel down if you stay static for too long. Thanks for reading!

 

-Connie K.

10 Things To Do This Summer

Start off your summer right with some recommendations from our new student worker, Connie!

Now that the weather’s finally getting nice here in the beautiful Midwest, you may be struggling to find things to do outside since you spent the last six months of your life avoiding subzero temperatures and frost bite by staying inside. My best advice to you is to spend as much of the summer as you can taking in the sun’s rays, because they’ll be gone again before you know it! I compiled a list of 10 things you can do if you find yourself sitting inside with nothing to do anytime within the next couple months. 

 

1. Go on a run outside!

It is a great way to be outside, get some exercise, and also get a nice tan! I’ll be honest, I can’t run very far at all without feeling tired. Something I’ve started doing lately, though, is going outside and mixing running and walking. I’ll run for as long as I can, than walk for as long as I need to.  I feel really good after I do it and I know you would as well.

 

Disc Golf Goal with grass in the background.2. Try disc golfing.

The best part about disc golfing is it is free. I’ve actually only been once, but I know a lot of people who enjoy it. The only thing you need is the frisbees. There are disc golf courses all over the metro. The closest one I found is Wabun Picnic Area (4655 46th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406). If that one doesn’t work for you, if you just google “Disc Golf Courses Near Me”, a bunch of options will come up.

 

 

3. Visit a waterfall.

This is personally one of my favorite things to do. It normally consists of a small hike, a pretty view, and some cool pictures. The closest one is Minnehaha Falls, only a few miles away. If you’re feeling adventurous, though, I would check out Willow River Falls, which is right across the border in Hudson, WI, or Vermillion Falls in Hastings, MN, which is very secluded, but one of my favorite places I’ve visited this summer.  

Close up on a tiered waterfall.

 

4. Find a concert.

Summer is concert season! Concerts are a great way to enjoy good music and relax. I listen to a lot of hip hop – if you do as well, I would highly recommend going to Soundset. It is a hip hop music festival that runs all day, May 29th. This year it’s featuring Atmosphere, ASAP Rocky, Future, Post Malone, and many more.

Grass in front of a lake with Minneapolis skyline in the background.5. Go to Lake Calhoun.

You could go on a walk around the trail that runs around the whole lake. You could rent kayaks, paddle boats, paddle boards, or bikes, at “Wheel Fun Rentals” which is right on the lake. There are multiple beaches and a park along the shore. There is also a restaurant called the “Tin Fish,” which is right on the lake, which I’ve been to several times and would definitely recommend.

6. Rent a bike.

You may have seen the bright green bikes placed strategically around the city. There are stations all over Minneapolis where you can rent bikes and return them the same day at any of the stations. This is a great thing you can do alone or with a friend. It’s a great way to get exercise, too, which is a lot more fun and easier than running.

 

The top of Witch's Hat tower.7. Watch the sunset at Witch’s Hat Tower.

Witch’s Hat Tower (55 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414) is a water tower in Minneapolis, just a few miles from Augsburg. It has a really beautiful view of the Minneapolis skyline. On a clear night, if you are at Witch’s Hat, the sun will set right over the city. Super good photo opportunity or date idea, so you’re welcome.

 

8. Enjoy the view at the Foshay Tower Observation Deck.

If you’re looking to explore downtown, I would suggest visiting the Foshay Tower. I think it costs $5, but you get to go all the way to the top. You are basically in the heart of downtown, at the top of a skyscraper, with skyscrapers all around you. You can see for miles. The view is amazing, it’s definitely not something you can see everyday, and should probably go at least once this summer.

 

View of Minneapolis from the Guthrie's Endless Bridge.9. Ride the supersized escalator to the endless bridge.

At the Guthrie Theater in downtown, there is a very cool overlook called the Endless Bridge. It is open to the public and has gorgeous views of downtown and the stone arch bridge. Afterwards, you can walk around the stone arch or go to the little park right next door to the Guthrie.

 

 

10. End a night with ice cream.

I recently went to Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream in Uptown and it was really good. It is open late, and has a pretty big patio for warm nights. There is also some cool art inside I would check out. If you don’t like ice cream, check out Insomnia Cookies in Dinkytown. Warm cookies for cheap – and they deliver.

 

Of course there’s endless amounts of other things you can do this summer, but hopefully this list can help get you started. If you think all these ideas are not your cup of tea, just promise me you will at least go outside and do something you enjoy. Thanks for reading!

 

-Connie K.

Student Spotlight: Meet Manford

Student Spotlight: Meet Manford.

Tell us about yourself.

 

My name is Manford F.  I’m a Sophomore majoring in Special Education. I chose my major because I want to be a Special Ed. teacher. I was originally going to be an Elementary Education major, and I actually was working in an Elementary school earlier this semester – however, I changed my major because of that experience.  I liked Elementary Education but I didn’t love it. I reached out to people, got some feedback, and realized that Special Education appeals to me more.

 

Part of the reason I chose Education in general is because I’ve always looked up to teachers. My dad is a teacher and a lot of his friends were teachers. A big part of my decision was made because of how much I enjoy myself whenever I get to teach other – I really like helping people.

 

"I was always trying to find a place where I could be myself and be accepted... then I came here and found these people who were like me."What brought you to Augsburg?

 

StepUP was absolutely the reason I came in the first place. However, once I got here, I loved the class sizes. Personally, small class size is important for me to succeed. I like to have personal one-on-one talks with teachers and you can’t get that at other colleges where there’s three hundred kids in one class and one professor. The teaching styles of the professors here are also awesome -they know what they’re doing, especially in the Education and Teaching department.

 

If I had to highlight a specific instructor, I’d have to say Elise Marubio, the American Indian Studies professor. She is so incredibly well-educated – anything that I asked, she knew the answer to. She was able to express her knowledge to the students in a way that not just was easy to comprehend – she could also relate it to us in a way that was interesting and personable. That’s the class that I learned the most in.

 

What do you see yourself doing post-graduation?

 

Since I’m only a Sophomore at this point, I don’t know for sure. If I’m able to I’d like to travel while I’m still young – I would love to explore South America. I’ve always had this dream of backpacking across the South American countryside. Outside of achieving that dream, I’m planning on eventually going back to Alexandria, MN where I grew up. I’d like to teach there and have a family and all of that stuff.

 

What was the deciding factor on you attending StepUP?

 

It was my overnight visit here. I met up with one of the current students and  stayed with him for a night in the flats. This particular student was well known in the community and he knew everyone. I was so impressed with the community here and felt like I could talk to anyone almost right away. Most importantly, we all had something in common – addiction. Regardless what we’re addicted to, we have that in common. The goal of higher education is something that we all share as well.

 

Now that I’m actually here, I love the community. I realize now that that’s what got and kept me sober. When I was using, I was always trying to find a place where I could be myself and be accepted. I could never find that place until I came here and found these people who were just  like me. I feel like I don’t have to hide from myself here, which is amazing. I can just be myself and be sober. This community is what allowed that to happen.
"I feel like I don't have to hide from myself here, which is amazing. I can just be myself and be sober."

Who in StepUP do you look up to?

 

My friend Bo is a huge inspiration to me. We met last year because we used to play ping pong together all the time. Through his friendship, I’ve gained a sense of spirituality. I never had that until I met him – it’s one of those friendships that ends up changing your life and how you look at things. It’s still something I’m working on – I’m still finding my spirituality. I’ve learned to look up to that idea whereas when I started here, it didn’t even cross my mind and if it did, I didn’t entertain the idea. He’s really opened my mind in a lot of positive ways, and I’m grateful for our friendship.

 

 

Do you have any words of wisdom to impart to new students?

 

Number one: don’t skip classes. You are here to get an education. Don’t forget it.

 

Secondly, connect with people in StepUP. Be that social person and make friends. Find people that do the same things that you do and be your real self with them.

 

For me, it’s all about finding people who allow you to be yourself and allow you to be vulnerable around them. It’s easy to isolate, but I’ve found that the more social I am, the happier I am in general and the better I do in school. For example, doing homework with your friends. It’s something small that contributes a lot to the way that you end up doing in classes and strengthens your bond with your friends.

 

Lastly, I’d say that it’s also important to branch out of StepUP. It can be easy to get sucked into this sort of StepUP bubble. Get involved in extracurricular activities, so you can be with people you have something in common with – even if that something isn’t addiction. I’m in an intramural soccer team with a bunch of StepUP kids. We won last night, 10-4, and I’m pretty sure the team we played was the Augsburg baseball team. It was funny, they were all doing drills, warming up, etc. before the match, and then there’s us – we’re a man down, all pretty out of shape (for the most part), and we absolutely dominated! It’s a lot of fun.

 

Thanks, Manford!

 

Student Spotlight: Meet Collins

Student Spotlight: Meet Collins N.

Tell us about yourself!

 

My name is Collins, and I’m from Des Moines, Iowa. I’m currently a Sophomore at Augsburg. I’m a double major in Secondary Education and Communicative Arts and Literature. That’s a lot of words, but it boils down to an English major that translates into teaching. Communicative Arts is basically the study of how you communicate literature effectively. My classes are heavily based in literature, writing, argumentation, and a lot of public speaking.

 

What brought you to Augsburg?

"[They] spoke about their college experiences while seeming happy, healthy, and put together... I wanted the experience they were describing."

StepUP brought me to Augsburg. I had applied to a lot of other colleges, many were more well known and closer to home than Augsburg. I got the acceptance letters back and had received a handful of scholarships. At the time, I felt like I should have been excited but I was more focused on trying to get sober. I had six months clean at the time, so even though it seemed like college was all set up, I just didn’t feel like [going to college] would work for me.

 

The deciding factor was hearing students speak. I remember when I was in treatment, some women from StepUP came and talked to everyone about the program. At the time, I wasn’t thinking about college – I was simply focused on not using. I remember these two women really well – one had just graduated and was a really big leader in the community. The two of them spoke about their college experiences while seeming happy, healthy, and put together. I wanted the experience they were describing, and I wanted to be just as happy, healthy, and put together as they were. Of course, my decision wasn’t based entirely on those women but it was definitely a good influence on me.

 

What’s your passion?

 

I would say teaching is my passion, both in a classroom and being an RA for the girls in the flat. Working with my residents and being able to teach them what StepUP is about and how it changes – that is an automatic feel good moment. I enjoy any opportunity to teach. I find that so interesting, because none of us really had a “automatic leadership role” when we got here – we had to step up to the plate. However, that’s another thing I love about StepUP – we definitely don’t all come in as leaders, but the staff provides the community with so many leadership opportunities here. We’re able to establish those roles and feel confident.

 

Who in StepUP has heavily influenced you, whether it’s a peer, alum or staff member?

 

I feel like this might be a really incorrect answer, but I met my boyfriend here and he is just a really healthy, positive person in the community. I think he’s influenced me in a lot of good ways. He shows me what a healthy relationship is in recovery. That positivity is an essential part of this whole experience.

 

My other really good friend here has influenced me so much because she’s kind to everyone – even when it’s not convenient. I feel that everyone knows that feeling – where sometimes it’s easy to be friendly, sometimes it’s hard. However, my friend is such a kind person – even though her life isn’t easy at times. She never lets anything personal effect how she treats other people. She is a sweet presence in this community and has really influenced me in that regard. She makes me want to be a better person. I love her.

 

Do you have any words of advice for "We definitely don't all come in as leaders, but the staff provides the community with so many leadership opportunities here."new students?

 

I would say, don’t have any very concrete, preconceived notions of what’s going to happen here. The people that you think you have to befriend, what your major is, everything – it is likely to change. It is much more important to be open to everything and realize that life in StepUP is not always perfect – it is still a human experience. However, all that insecurity and doubt in the beginning – it gets easier as you go along and adjust to the community and sobriety over time. You will change, but in good ways.

 

What is your proudest accomplishment?

 

My proudest accomplishment is staying clean. Not just getting clean, but staying clean. What does a drug addict want to do? They want to use. I’ve had friends pass away while I’ve been clean, overdoses and such, and that was hard. Breakups and other disappointments have not been an excuse to use either. I’m really proud of myself and my commitment to sobriety.

 

What keeps you here? What’s the most valuable part of this program for you?

 

The feeling of fellowship is the biggest part of StepUP to me. As an RA, I know that we don’t live in a perfect community, and we don’t pretend that we’re a perfect community. We have issues and differences, but we’re all just trying to live again and be adults. While we may not always be in the same spot as one another, there’s a real bond that lives here that I probably wouldn’t have in a “normal” dorm. If I’m upset or if I’m struggling I can walk outside and ten different people will ask me to go to a meeting, get coffee, tell me they love me, give me a hug – whatever I need. I get so many hugs every day. For me, it’s the fellowship that makes StepUP a great program.

 

Thanks, Collins!