Messages from the River

The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, the fourth largest river in North America, and the largest hydroelectric power-producing river in North America. It s also a sight to behold. On any given day, you can see sailboats, kayaks, a paddle wheeler, and cruise ships merging with pilot boats, tugs, small fishing boats, cargo ships, and other vessels that ply its waters. Sea lions, salmon, and occasional pods of whales mix with other sea life, and seagulls, crows, and cormorants rule the sky. Filled with lovely illustrations of the Columbia River and the surrounding Astoria, Oregon, area, these reflections reveal what the river has taught the author about life and how it has become her muse. In considering the mysteries of the river, the author urges others to think about what speaks to them. Whether it s music, dance, the smile of a child, or some aspect of nature, you ll learn important things about yourself and the universe by honoring it with expression.