208 life

Love in the BOI: Victoria & Terrence

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Describe How You Two Originally Met.



Terrence and I never thought we'd meet our future partner through a dating app. Yet, that's how it started. I was about to delete the app, tired of the mindless scrolling I did when I was tired or bored when I came across his profile on a Friday evening. There was something...different about this one. Immediately I set my phone down and did something I hadn't done in a long time, prayed. If it wasn't a match I was going to go through with deleting the app. If it was a match then I prayed for him to be my future husband, that it would be the next step of my journey to love. I picked my phone up, swiped right, and wouldn't you know...it was a match. Terrence and I met on an app where the female has to initiate the conversation. I had no clue what to say so I started with something sincere. 'I hope you had a great Friday and that you have an awesome weekend' or something like that. Terrence responded right away and by that Monday, March 16th, we were on our first date. That day Terrence asked for my number whereas every other guy I met through the app kept the conversation but never 'made a move' and didn't bother to talk outside of the app.

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Describe Your First Date and/or First Memories Together

In Terrence's words, our first date was unconventional and amazing. March 16th was the day Boise started closing. We had made plans to meet at one place but had to change them due to restrictions being set in place due to COVID-19. Even with everything starting to become clear to us and more uncertain of what the future looked like with this virus we kept the date. At the restaurant we were able to talk so freely and comfortably that the waitress was almost 'unwelcome' because her visits to the table interrupted our conversation. At this point I don't think either of us knew this would be our first and last public outing together for quite awhile. We were eventually kicked out so the place could close early for the pandemic. Even though we had to exit the building we both didn't want the night to end. We spent the next few hours getting to know each other and our 6 o'clock date lasted until close to 10. Warranting, of course, a second date. Time went on and so did COVID AND our relationship. On November 1, 2020 Terrence got down on one knee and proposed right outside the restaurant we first met at, in front of the Boise sign!



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Why do you love living in Boise? Describe some of your favorite things to do in Boise and/or Idaho together

Terrence and I both grew up in Boise. I found myself leaving for a few years but coming back because I truly call Idaho my Idahome. Throughout quarantine Terrence and I were able to get to know each other on a deeper level because we couldn't do the 'normal' dates. Dinners and movies went out the window and were replaced by late night drives. We found ourselves driving the back roads, exploring Lucky Peak on our paddleboards, and romping around the many foothills Boise has to offer. We truly love it here! The sun is bright and the snow is beautiful. We have a great combination of city and rural life. The mountains are inviting and the people are fun! I truly don't see us leaving anytime soon.

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What advice do you have for those searching for love?

Our advice would be to recognize your past relationships and more so notice what you were missing in them. Our pasts, despite having many ups and downs, led us into being the people we are today. Let go of judgment and really get to know people instead of following dating 'norms'. Ask questions! Even though they may be uncomfortable talk about the big topics in life-the deal breakers. This will help you in being up front, avoiding hurt later, and finding your ideal partner sooner. That's what we did. Our first date Terrence and I talked about the three things you're NOT supposed to bring up on the first date: exes, politics, and religion. On our second date we had questions for each other in relation to our futures: kids, career, goals. Don't put on a front and let things happen. Find peace in yourself and maybe even try a dating app or two. Put effort into your profile and who knows...you might find your honey too.

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Thanks so much for sharing your #LoveIntheBOI story!

Give Victoria and Terrance a follow at @vplaster @tport21!







Love in the BOI: Dawayne and Alexandra

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Describe How You Two Originally Met.

Dawayne and I have a pretty cute story to tell. We somehow ended up as friends on Facebook years ago, but never interacted with one another at all. Like... not even once. Then one day Dawayne posed a question to his friends via a post, asking “I want to get to know you guys better... who on my friends list enjoys reading and if yes, how often?”. I responded, and went into detail about my very particular taste in novels. Turns out that he had the same taste!! I had just finished an incredible book and offered to let him borrow it, asking only for a book to borrow in return. On the night we exchanged books, we ended up talking for hours while the similarities piled up between us. Fast forward through many adventures and you’ll find us here, making this new house on the greenbelt into a home with our two sweet rescue dogs.

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Describe Your First Date and/or First Memories Together

Gosh, we have so many epic memories together already, it’s tough to narrow it down. We are both fueled by the sun, and are passionate about reading and spending time outside. Our first date after we exchanged books, we met up at Quinn’s pond and went out on his paddle board together before settling in on the beach to read and bask in the sun. He took me to The Funky Taco afterwards, and on the way there my mom called and I told her where we were going. She said, with a smile in her voice, “the book guy?” and I said yes with the same smile. I had already called her to gush about him when I left his house for the exchanging of books. After our meal (which was awesome by the way), I excused myself to use the restroom. When I walked out to find him, he was standing on the corner of 8th street, beet red, talking to MY PARENTS!!!!! They were having dinner at Asiagos when I told her we were headed downtown and she decided to surprise us and say hello! Dawayne took meeting my stalker parents on the first date very well, and we have all shared a laugh about that story a few times since. He liked the fact that my mom recognized him, because he knew that meant I’d been talking about him already. And in quite a bit of detail!

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Why do you love living in Boise? Describe some of your favorite things to do in Boise and/or Idaho together

We genuinely love this great state. We love spending time reading at the river or a lake or a pond on the beach, we love hiking in the mountains and hills with the dogs, we love adventuring to hot springs and different historical sights... there’s so many wonderful, beautiful places right at our fingertips, and we want to make sure we are appreciating as many of them as we can to their fullest potential. Living in Boise, we have the unique opportunity to take in some pretty incredible natural beauty every single day. Our morning walk with the dogs begins at 7:10 am, and while walking towards the greenbelt as a family, we get to see the silhouette of the mountains as the sun gets ready to peak out from behind them to wake the city. Our shared love for where we live is a huge part of the reason we fell in love with each other in the first place.

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What advice do you have for those searching for love?

I’ve been writing about us while lying on the floor next to him in his office with my feet up on his lap. He’s rubbing them in between mouse clicks and sentences typed. I looked up at him and asked him this question (what advice do you have for those searching for love), and this was his response: “Look for the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, not the rest of next week.” I’m going to have to agree with that sentiment, and add that while we are not perfect, we are willing to communicate openly and honestly, and own where we each fall short. If you find someone who’s willing to do this with you, then you’ve found someone worth creating a future with.

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Thank you Dawayne and Alexandra for sharing your story! Make sure to follow them on Instagram: @shattering_thenorm and @alexandrabrucemeow

Have a Wheel Nice Time: 9 #BucketList Day Trips from Boise

Friday, May 22nd is National Road Trip Day!  Perfect timing since this weekend is the *official* kickoff to summer -- Memorial Day weekend!  Hop into your car, enjoy a full day of exploring, & get out of town for a day.  Here are 9 great day trips that allow you to explore &  return to Boise by dinnertime

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Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

Souce: Bogus Basin website

Souce: Bogus Basin website


Distance from Boise: 45 minutes north

Why Road Trip Worthy: Bogus Basin isn’t only a winter destination. During the summer months, Bogus Basin offers hiking, biking, live music & events, running, disc golf, and the mountain coaster (fun!). You can also try the lift & experience some incredible views.  Learn more about Bogus Basin HERE








Craters of the Moon

Source: NPS.Gov

Source: NPS.Gov

Distance from Boise: 3 hours east

Why Road Trip Worthy:  you get to see vast lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush.

Learn more HERE


Bruneau Sand Dunes

Souce: Idaho Parks & Recreation

Souce: Idaho Parks & Recreation

Distance from Boise: 64 miles south 

Why Road Trip Worthy:  It’s the tallest dune in North America, reaching over 470 ft. It’s also the only place in Idaho where you can dune ski. The Visitors Center offers sand boards to rent to have some dune fun!  When you visit, you can also fish, birdwatch, camp, hike, view the stars and swim.  The Bruneau Dunes Observatory Complex is only one of two public observatories in Idaho & home to a 25” telescope.  

Learn more HERE


Hells Canyon Recreation Area 

Source: visitidaho.org

Source: visitidaho.org

Distance from Boise: 2 to 3 hours away, depending on activity 

Why Road Trip Worthy: Hells Canyon spans three states (Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) and is known as the deepest river gorge in North America.  While most of the canyon is inaccessible, you can enjoy activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, and jet boat rides.  If anything, the road trip is worth the views. 

Learn more HERE


Idaho City

Source: Southwest Idaho Travel Association

Source: Southwest Idaho Travel Association

Distance from Boise:1 hour west 

Why Road Trip Worthy: Back in the 1800s, Idaho City served as a mining town & the once-capital of Idaho. If heading back in time is your desire,  Idaho CIty will give you the Wild West charm. You can explore its local shops, quaint restaurants, and even an old sarsaparilla shop. Let’s not forget the hot spring destination The Springs. This developed hot springs pool is a popular destination for many.

Learn more HERE


Idaho Wine Country

Source: Snake River Wine Tours

Source: Snake River Wine Tours

Distance from Boise: 1 hour west

Why Road Trip Worthy: The Sunny Slope wine district is over to over 13 different wineries. From Koening to Sawtooth Winery to St. Chappelles, you will not be disappointed by the majestic views and incredible wine tasting. Most of the wineries are open year-round & offer free tastings. Side note: if you do not want to drive & prefer for someone else to drive you, book a tour with Snake River Wine Tours. Say hi to Sam for me!

Learn more HERE


Sawtooth National Forest

Source: Redfishlake.com

Source: Redfishlake.com

Distance from Boise: 3 hour drive east

Why Road Trip Worthy: ask any local -- Sawtooth National Forest is a popular answer of must-see destinations outside of Boise.  This natural beauty is a sprawling area of pristine forest, rugged wilderness & impeccable views.  Grab your hiking gear & explore.

Learn more HERE


Twin Falls/Shoshone Falls

Source: The Idaho Statesman

Source: The Idaho Statesman

Distance from Boise: About 2 hours south of Boise

Why Road Trip Worthy:  Twin Falls is the home of Shoshone Falls -- known as the Niagara Falls of the West. The views are so breathtaking!  After you explore the Shoshone Falls, you can head downtown for some additional exploring. Grab crepes at Twin Beans. Enjoy a cold beer at Milner’s Gate. Shop at the Brass Monkey

Learn more HERE


McCall 

Source: Visit McCall

Source: Visit McCall

Distance from Boise: 2 hours north

Why Road Trip Worthy: as a resort town, McCall offers visitors a little bit of everything: picturesque views, outdoor recreation, guided walkways, and amazing places to dine.  You can enjoy lake views with the McCall Lake Cruise. You can zipline at Tamarack Resort. Have some fun on the McCall Ale Trail. As a popular destination for Boiseans, McCall is deserving of many day trips. 

Learn more HERE


PLEASE RECREATE RESPONSIBILITY: 

Despite COVID-19, many recreational opportunities exist in Idaho’s outdoor areas.

 

Per the Idaho.gov website, “Residents are encouraged to enjoy a walk, a hike or a ride but must adhere to best health practices to prevent virus transmission, including staying at least 6-feet away from others and avoiding groups of people who are not immediate family members or housemates.” 

Read more on how to recreate responsibly while on your road trip HERE


LEAVE NO TRACE

When exploring the outdoors, please be mindful of Leave No Trace principles.  7 principles you can follow to help minimize impact when visiting the outdoors. Respect the land & our environment. Please click HERE to learn more. 


Source: Maverick Car Company

Source: Maverick Car Company


In the market for an adventure-worthy vehicle, my friends at Maverick Car Company can help! Give Freeman & his team a call at 208-314-8080 or visit www.maverickcarcompany.com. I plan to hop in my Maverick car & go on a few of these road trips. #MaverickCarPartner #LifesAnAdventure

14 Must-Try Spots for Boise's Best Salads



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May is National Salad Month! LETTUCE CELEBRATE with a delicious salad. Need suggested places to cross off your #BoiseBucketList?! Check these spots below for all your salad cravings






A Cafe Boise

Location: S. 10th Street | Boise

Suggested Salad: TENTH & MAIN

Website: https://www.acafeboise.com/

Souce: A Cafe Boise

Souce: A Cafe Boise






Bardenay

Locations: West Grove (DowntownBoise) and Eagle

Suggested Salad; Panzanella Bruschetta Salad

https://bardenay.com/

Source: Bardenay

Source: Bardenay





Cafe Zupa’s

Locations: Boise & Meridian

Suggested Salad: Mangoberry

https://cafezupas.com/index.html





The Curb Bar & Grill

Location: Meridian

Suggested Salad: Curb Salad

https://curbbarandgrill.com/





Fresh Health Cafe

Location: South 8th Street | Downtown Boise

Suggested salad: Beach Salad

Website: https://freshrestaurants.com/fresh-healthy-cafe-boise/

Source: Fresh Health Cafe

Source: Fresh Health Cafe











Fork

Location: 8th Street | Downtown Boise

Suggested Salads: The B.C.S, Strawberry Fields Salad

www.boisefork.com

The B.C.S. Fork Boise

The B.C.S. Fork Boise



Strawberry Fields Salad, Fork Boise

Strawberry Fields Salad, Fork Boise













Great Harvest Bread Co Bakery & Cafe

Location: West Fairview, Boise 

Suggested Salad: Chicken Raspberry Walnut Salad

Website: http://greatharvestboise.com/












Lemon Tree

Location: West Idaho | Downtown Boise

Suggested Salad: Lemon Tree Co. Salad

: http://www.lemontreeboise.com/












Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Location: Meridian

Suggested Salad: Southwest BBQ Chicken

https://www.kneaders.com/












Kona Grill

Location: Village At Meridian

Suggested Salad: Kona chopped

https://www.konagrill.com/











Main Street Deli

Location: West Main Street | Downtown Boise 

Suggested Salad: Spicy Thai Chicken Salad

https://www.mainstreetdeliboise.com/

Main Street Deli

Main Street Deli









The Tavern

Location: Bown Crossing, SE Boise

Suggested Salad: Ahi Poke Salad | Salmon Nicoise Salad

https://www.tavernatbown.com/




Wild Root Cafe and Market

Location: 8th Street | Downtown Boise

Suggested Salad: NIÇOISE SALAD

https://wildrootcafe.com/







The Wylder

Location: West Broad Street | Downtown Boise

Suggested Salad: Kale Caesar Salad

https://www.thewylderboise.com/































LOVE IN THE BOI: Sara & Tony

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How did you two meet?


We met playing volleyball at Camelsback park. When I first came to Boise from the Midwest on a clinical rotation, everyone was so welcoming and inviting. My friend and I actually found Diana early on during our rotation here through Boise Bucket List on social media, and at one of her events we met someone who then invited us to hang out with their friend which ultimately led to the invite to come play volleyball with a fun group of people, and I’m happy that Tony was out playing that day (: I had no idea then that we would stay in touch and I would end up moving to Boise permanently.


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Describe Your First Date

Sorry Tony I don’t remember what we would call our first official date. I know he probably made me dinner or something before this, but one of my favorite early memories together is when he wanted to show me Kirkham hot springs, and we didn’t really plan out if/where we would stay that evening but just ended up sleeping under the stars in the back of his truck. That might have been when I first fell in love... with his dog who was snuggled up next to us and keeping me warm that night 😂





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What are you favorite local things to do & places to go? 

Skiing/snowboarding Bogus Basin, hiking in the foothills, camping in the Sawtooths, soaking in hot springs, watching Tony play guitar at his church






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What is one word of advice you have to those who are still in search of love?

Say yes to opportunities here, including showing up to events posted on social media or going to a park to play games with a random group of people.. even if you don’t know anybody, people here are so welcoming and friendly, and you never know who you could meet!






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I met Sara when she attended a BSU tailgate event I was hosting back in 2018. She was here for an internship, and I’m so happy she found #LoveInTheBOI! Follow Sara and Tony on their adventures together at @sarajscarbs and @t_hubz



LOVE IN THE BOI: Greg and Candi

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How did you two meet?

We met on the job. Candi worked as a cashier and Greg worked in the warehouse.



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Describe Your First Date

We drove in the back of a friends truck to the beach. We talked and kissed and talked and kissed. Oh yea. And we talked and kissed too.

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What are you favorite local things to do & places to go?

We love going on Sunday drives to check out new places. We also love to bargain shop at thrift stores and antique shops looking for that gem piece of furniture, or unique item that would look cool in our home. We also love car shows, races and camping. We love trying different Mexican restaurants, Italian restaurants and burger joints. It’s very true we just really enjoy doing almost everything together.





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What is one word of advice you have to those who are still in search of love? 

Everyone will say patience and that’s good advice. It’s really too difficult to just give one word.

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Greg and Candi are realtors, and you can follow them on social media at granditripoli (Greg & Candi combined — how cute!). They will be celebrating 28 years together in March. Greg actually submitted thie #LoveInTheBOI feature as a surprise to Candi — HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY YOU TWO!

LOVE IN THE BOI: Megan and David

From End Zone to Friend Zone to #LoveInTheBOI. This is Megan and David “DMac” love story.


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Where/how did we meet?

 

We met at a college party 3 years ago and my best friend was in town. At the party, Dmac asked my best friend for her number..whoops. Then we became friends after that (meaning I friend zoned him), and would hang out all the time. During the summer of his graduation and me going into my sophomore year of college we started seeing each other at church every weekend and started hanging out more and the relationship just started from there (meaning I finally gave him a chance ;)). 

 

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Describe our first date

 

We went to Asiagos for our first date and after dinner we came home and went in the hot tub with some wine. That night we stayed up talking & laughing till around 3 am <3.

 





What are our favorite local places/things to do?

 

We love to go to the movies, it is probably the date we go on the most. Bodovino, Barbacoa, Luciano’s, and Flatbread are our restaurants we like to eat at frequently for date night!

 



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Advice for those still searching for love:

 

Stop searching!! Our relationship started when we both were not expecting it at all. I was in the mindset of not even wanting to talk to anyone and just focus on myself and my relationship with God. Dmac also felt the same exact way. The saying, “Love always comes when you’re not expecting it”, is 10000% true. Start focusing on yourself, make yourself happy, and love will come (we promise <3).







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Thank you Megan and DMac for sharing your #LoveInTheBOI story! Make sure to follow Megan and Dmac on social media for all their adventures.