After all of our adventures over the past two months, from Seattle to Colorado, we really looked forward to a little down time in Idaho. We rented a 4 bedroom, ranch home in the Boise suburb of Meridian, Idaho. After coming off a busy few weeks of touring, Idaho was the perfect place!
This experience of being “settled” back in a peaceful, suburban home brought back some great memories of conventional life. Internet speed was incredible. The kitchen was so spacious, and we each had our own bedroom.
The kids spent the first day hanging out in their “room.” It was such a novelty after almost two years living in an RV. However, by day two, they were wandering back into the living room to be with us.
The Idaho Life
We had heard many good things about Boise. Particularly, the mild weather in the high desert, cost of living, and access to all things outdoors – hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, etc. At first we were skeptical. Everyone we spoke to during our first week there raved about how they love living in Boise!
It didn’t take us long to grow very fond of the area as well. For us, it was the slower pace, wide open spaces, friendly people, and pretty views of the foothills. There was something really homey about this place, despite the boom of properties being built. It rained only one day in the entire month we were there. It was just abundant sunshine, and heat with no humidity.
The second and third weekends, we visited model homes and open houses to get a feel for the real estate market. Cost of living was a bit lower in Idaho. I spent significantly less on groceries while we were there. I was elated when I paid for an old change AND tire patch for merely $25.
Boise’s Amazing Parks
Idahoans sure enjoy a relaxed, family day at the park. The Boise and surrounding Treasure Valley boast over 140 parks! We set our sights on a few, and were not disappointed. We enjoyed a hike and picnic at Camel’s Back Park on the Fourth of July. Beyond the park lies miles and miles of beautifully maintained hiking trails.
We also went to nearby Settlers Park in Meridian, which had a playground and splash pad, several times throughout the month.
Esther Simplot Park was one of my favorite parks in Boise. Two man made lakes were perfect for kayakers, paddle boarders, and swimmers. An interesting playground was recently remodeled and expanded. The Greenbelt cuts right through the park, leading to miles and miles of walking and biking opportunities.
City of Boise
We drove downtown and checked out the State Capitol Building and Julia Davis Park. The park is located along the Boise Greenbelt, an amazing 25 miles of biking and walking paths along the Boise River.
Back in Meridian, we checked out the awesome dancing fountains at The Village, an outdoor shopping mall and entertainment center. Each hour the fountains were choreographed to a different song. Definitely one of our favorite places!
The boys and I spent another afternoon at Jump Time Idaho, an indoor trampoline park, located in Meridian. This was a great way to expend some energy while it was 98 degrees outside.
We had a fabulous and unforgettable stay in Boise. Who knew that two years later we would return to live here permanently? Here are some links in case you are interested in finding out more about visiting Boise:
World Center for Birds of Prey
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