Idaho

Year of First Visit – 2007
Point of Entry – I-90 near Coeur d’Alene

If you’ve ever been set up on a blind date and found yourself thinking about marriage within the first few moments of meeting her then you know my feelings about Idaho.

I had two thoughts in mind before going there: 1.) endless barren land covering potatoes, and 2.) towns dominated by Neo-Nazi encampments. I knew the speed limit was 75 and planned to fully leverage it on my way to Montana and Wyoming.

Then on that sunny July afternoon I crossed the border by Coeur d’Alene and found myself enamored by the shocking beauty. I had to slow my speed to gaze at the wonders. I started updating my resume and looking for a realtor, at least in my mind.

Later on the same trip, after two weeks of roughing it at various national parks, we arrived in Idaho Falls. It was as if they knew us when we arrived, for the motel’s pool was set to the perfect temperature and one of my family’s favorite restaurants was right next door. The sensual delights of swimming and delicious dining, combined with the wonders of a private shower and good mattresses, made me love Idaho even more.

Alas, the relationship didn’t work out. Though the summer was great, I knew winter would come again. And my tolerance for things like cold, snow, and ice was more than this relationship could handle.

So farewell my summer love. I long for another July when I can sneak away with you for a while.