Boise, ID

Although summer and thus the traditional camping season were both officially and unofficially over several weeks ago, we wanted to squeeze in an outdoors excursion before it got really cold. For a variety of reasons, our family did not get in our usual assortment of weekend camping trips during the summer, so when my husband [...]

If Peter Piper had planted a patch of plump picken’-pumpkins (rather than picking a peck of pickled peppers), he probably would have grabbed the attention of more children. Fortunately, many other farmers have caught the autumn spirit (and a business opportunity!) and provided families all over the Treasure Valley with a fun way to spend a little time enjoying a beautiful fall day in SW Idaho. One such place is Linder Farms in Meridian, where my kids and I have enjoyed an outing more than one year.

I have probably been to most every air show in the area for thirty plus some years. But one of the most spectacular and FREE events of the year is always held at Mountain Home Air Force Base. The last one was in 2005, so watch the papers during the summer. It’s something you won’t want to miss!!

This year, Gunfighter Skies-2008 commenced on Saturday Sept. 13th and ended on Sunday, the 14th. (Something to note on future events…(Usually the Thunderbirds only perform the full show, during the last day)!

Saturday morning was not a good time to arise out of bed at 4:00AM, but it was my usual wake up time for my work as a bus driver. Saturday found me preparing to run a shuttle bus for the Art in the Park festivities down at Julia Davis Park. The park, hosts artists from all over the Northwest, who sell their wares at the three day event. Food and entertainment are also had and proceeds beneift the Boise Art Museum. The event is held the week after Labor Day, Sat.-Sun.

The swimming pool at Nampa’s Lakeview Park is a favorite for cooling off on a hot summer afternoon. One hundred degrees was forecast for the high, with temps cooling later in the week, and I spent the first half of the day arguing with myself about taking the kids out there. It’s not that I [...]

I believe Sandy Point used to be called rocky point, until a while back when sand was brought in to make it a little bit more foot friendly. The sand its self still remains a bit gravely and thick, meaning its not quite Long Beach in southern California, but it serves its purpose. A large shallow lake area reaches out from the sand towards a rock wall that sits along side the Highway. In the center of the far side of the lake protrudes a huge fountain. Beside the sandy beach is a large grassy area complete with mature trees, picnic tables, and barbeque stands. Towering above the park is a huge green lettered message insisting, “Keep our Forests Green.” People spread out on blankets and towels below enjoying lunch and meandering down to the water to cool off.

On the first and third Tuesday morning and Wednesday afternoon of each month, the Deerflat National Wildlife Refuge hosts a story, craft, and snack time called “Reading at the Refuge” free of charge for kids at the visitors’ center. On July’s first Tuesday I decided it was time to revisit the Refuge. It’s been awhile [...]

This is a wonderful aspect of Camel’s Back. One has enough space to spread out and enjoy a game or is near enough to enjoy the company of others. Visitors feel free to spread out and take a nap under a tree or chase their children down the hill for which the park is named after. From the top one can enjoy the view of the whole city or revel in their ability to scale the steep sandy face. It’s the home of parties, and the Hyde Park Street Fair, as well as an afternoon snack. It’s a great location for those that are looking for a fun place to take their kids or a place to take a hike.

Ten Mile Campground on Highway 21 lies between rivers and strange cartoonish conifers that resemble trees that could be found in a Dr. Seuss story book.

Many, many years ago, Sherwood West-an older subdivision, was constructed above the west rim of it. The former gravel pit, supplied raw materials such as sand and gravel, to the ever growing communities being built on the Boise Bench. One reason I am familiar with it, is that my dad had built many homes in the same subdivision.

About four years ago, the wife and I moved into the area, just a few blocks away. I hadn’t seen the old gravel pit in years. On one of my first walks in our new neighborhood, I quickly rediscovered an old friend.

It wasn’t until I started to write this review that I did a bit of research. Low and behold, I found the pit had a name-the “Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve.” In addition, I was astonished to see that the City of Boise had created a master plan in 2000, to develop the site into a park.