Mom’s River Revelation
August 5, 2010 
8 Comments
That is my mom with the drum and butterfly hat. I have to admit, she is pretty awesome. No matter where I am in the world, no matter what competitive career environment I might get sucked into someday, I will never regret the time I’ve spent building a deeper relationship with her right here in Spokane.
“Ms. Rhubarb” at Earth Day 2010
Parents are a draw for many young people returning home after their forays into the world. Unlike some, my mother isn’t too embarrassed or shy to hang out with the kids. She joins in on all kinds of fun adventures that many boomers ne’er do well to discover. She went to the New Originals art show, has biked with the FBC, partied with the Shrinking Violets and regularly goes rafting, just to name a few things. So why not foray boldly into the blogosphere as well?
River Revelation by Carol Bryan
Who is the Spokane Riverkeeper and what is the Spokane River Forum?
I really didn’t care, but I knew I wanted to experience the river from more than just a Centennial Trail point of view. So I signed up for a rafting adventure that began east of the state line and ended out at Plese Flats beyond Riverside State Park.
WOW! I met unusually nice people, saw a nesting bald eagle, soaring blue heron, a momma duck followed by her 7 semi-wayward little ducklings, a hillside swallow condo, evidence of beavers and human folly. Yes, we did get a little wet at times, and that was part of the fun.
I kept wishing every family in Spokane could enjoy this adventure at least once in their lifetime. I dare say, we as a community would never be the same. We would know that we are a continuation of the ten thousand years of people living on the Spokane River. We would know how our lives are intertwined with the health of the river. We would see how each glass of water connects us to the miracle of our river. We would be grateful for the beauty that is near us every day.
So, who are the Riverkeepers? Officially, they are a nonprofit group of lawyers, conservationists, and concerned citizens who work to protect rivers from the barrage of contaminants and actions that adversely affect the plants, animals and humans who depend on them. In actuality, we can all become riverkeepers as we become aware of how we make daily choices that protect or abuse our river ecosystem.
What is the River Forum? Officially, it’s a nonprofit group (with no budget) that seeks to inform our community about the treasure in our midst. They simply share the good news and realize that once people have heard and seen it, they will want to help protect what we have.
Do yourself, your family, and your community a favor. Connect with one of these organizations or the Parks and Recreation Department and take a new look at our astounding Spokane River.
This Friday come on up to the 2nd Floor Rooftop in the Saranac Building (25 W. Main) between 4-6pm to celebrate the new tenure of our friend Bart as the Riverkeeper, formerly of Down to Earth fame. Then cut loose and enjoy your First Friday out on the town while the weather is still divine.
About the Author
Mariah, you’re overwhelming us. Three weeks with no posts and then 4 in two days. I can’t keep up. But I’d rather you post too many than none at all. And your mom seems like a cool dame.
Hello Carol!
Thanks for sharing this Mariah. You are so lucky to have such a mom, and Spokane is lucky to have her too.
Haha Victor, she’s been known to have that effect. I say bring it!
carol = cool
Hey Mariah – This is SO GREAT.
For people our age to be honored by someone your age (and certainly a son/daughter) it makes life so very meaningful.
Love that picture too! Saving it on my computer. ALWAYS love reading your blog. Always interesting, timely and insightful!
Thanks, Mariah. You made me look good!
It occured to me that most parents don’t participate in activities like I’m able to do because they don’t get invited!