Written by Monica Rojas, Upstream Care for Place Fellow

“Mississippi River!” echoes throughout the family car. It reverberates through our bones and rattles the treasures tucked in pockets throughout the car, rocks, acorns, and cottonwood sticks with stars in their centers. We have, once again, crossed over the mighty Mississippi. Living in the Twin Cities, it happens often. The whole metro area feels like it is made of bridges.

Before I became a parent, I had many hopes for family life: picnic lunches, scenic hikes, sledding through gently falling snow. Looking back now, I can see my folly. Making memories with a family is nothing like a well-laid plan. No amount of outlining or storyboarding will set up a perfectly delivered punchline. In some ways, I have failed my original vision. But somehow, I have succeeded in raising urban kids with a love of the natural world.

Each time we cross the Mississippi, we shout her name, “Mississippi River!” It has become a family tradition to acknowledge the beautiful river every time we cross over it.

Just like any ritual, it morphs and shifts, matching the moment and mood. Usually, all four of us say it loudly and with purpose. Sometimes only one adult whispers it to themselves, the children asleep in the backseat. While other times, as we drive to campsites around the state, it appears unexpectedly, propelling the kids to wonder and gaze admiringly at their Mississippi River, joining us on another adventure.

We don’t always have the time to stop and visit the water, stomp around on the banks, name birds, pick up trash, and build found object sculptures. But we are able to say, “Hello!” to her and, in that way, we are caring for her. We are sending our love through the shouting of her name, “Mississippi River!”

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