Love is in the air and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! What are you going to do for your sweetie this year? Whether you want to get them something special or do something special, there’s lots of options.  We’re here to help make your day exceptional.

Avoid The Same Old Same Old

Do you tend to get your special someone the same thing each and every year? Maybe some roses and a box of chocolates? This is the year to break that trend and avoid the ordinary!! Check out these great gift ideas that are better than flowers and candy. It’s guaranteed to surprise the one you love:

What a Difference a Day Makes Burlap Print – Personalized Family Dates

This personalized gift is a great way to look back on your relationship. From the day you met, first date, got married, and the birth of your children.

Polaroid Camera

What better way to capture each and every moment as they happen? You can treasure those moments forever. Stick them on your fridge, in a photo album or scrapbook.

Spa Set

Bring the spa to her! With several different scent options, you can treat your love from the comfort of their own home.

Date Night Bucket List

Switch up the usual with this date night bucket list. Lots of creative date night ideas, both fun and intellectual. Avoid the dreaded “What do you want to do tonight?” question.

Your Vows as an Art Print

Remember your special day in this unique way. Pick the best line from your vows and put them on display.

Edible Bouquet

Satisfy their sweet tooth with a twist. So gorgeous they’ll never want to eat it… if they can resist.

You Know Them Best

When it comes right down to it, you know your love the best. This is an excuse to treat them… maybe spoil them with a spa day. Keep them grilling with a BBQ Set. Make them laugh with a silly mug. Keep them cozy with a new blanket & pillow or PJ set. Get them a little buzzed with their favorite wine. Keep things smelling fresh with a candle. Help them feel pretty with personalized jewelry. Even if it’s the classic flowers & chocolates, get them what they want.

A Night on The Town

Want to take your sweetie out on the town? Beautiful Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding area is never short on events, even for the day of love. And also some great date night ideas you could do on Valentine’s Day or any other.

Bourbon & Chocolate Paring – On February 14th at The Bee’s Knees from 4-11:30pm

Wine & Chocolate Pairing – On February 14th at The Culinary Stone from 4:30-6pm

Valentine’s Dinner For Two – On February 12th – 16th at The Coeur d’Alene Casino

Valentine’s Day Cruises – On February 14th or 15th boarding at The Boardwalk Marina, Times Vary

Sock Hop 1950’s Dance – On February 14th at Lake City Center from 6-9pm

Sweethearts Ball – On February 14th at The Best Western from 5pm-12am

Mardis Gras Murder – On Feb. 14th & 15th, 21st & 22nd at The Cd’A Cellars at 6:30pm

Ice Skating at River Front Park in Spokane – Make an entire night of it and have dinner at an elegant restaurant downtown, catch a movie, go ice skating, and then stay at a nice hotel.

Pinot’s Palette Date Night – You paint half a picture on a canvas and your partner paints the other half, making one giant gorgeous picture. Don’t forget the drinks.

Ski/Snowboard Day – Enjoy the slopes at any one of the great resorts near us!

There are tons of romantic restaurants in the Coeur d’Alene & Spokane area. Click here for a great list in Coeur d’Alene! And here for a list in Spokane! And many may offer Valentine’s Day specials!

Romantic Getaways

A getaway with the one you love is needed every now and then. And what better time than Valentine’s Day? Celebrate your love together and enjoy a small vacation. You’ll still be close to home, yet in a world of your own.

Western Pleasure Ranch

Located in gorgeous Sandpoint Idaho, this is a must stay. Visitors get to enjoy astounding views of the surrounding mountain ranges and beautifully constructed log cabins. Don’t forget the horseback riding, outdoor activities, and all the history that comes with it.

Blackwell Hotel

The Blackwell Hotel is located in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. It’s full of elegance, history, and many unique touches. First built in 1904, it still has the original artwork. A very romantic place, a must see!

Coeur d’Alene Resort

Located on the North Shore of Coeur d’Alene Lake, it’s become a top place to stay for visitors. At the resort you will never be bored with accommodations like golfing, spa, pool, restaurants, nightlife and more!  Check out their lake front rooms today.

Northern Quest Dinner & Movie Plus Resort & Casino

This is a one of a kind experience! Dinner & a movie, then dessert & drinks after the credits roll. Don’t forget the gambling & luxury rooms to stay in. Everything you need in one place.

Davenport Hotel

Located in Downtown Spokane, Historic Davenport Hotel is right in the center of everything. With gorgeous city views, a romantic design, a spa, and even jetted tubs and fireplaces in some rooms you’ll never want to leave! Great balance of modern amenities and a historic charm.

Aspen Meadows Bed & Breakfast

This little bed & breakfast is located just 10 minutes from downtown. Close but away from all the crows. Very peaceful and quite location which makes it perfect for a romantic getaway.

No matter how you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, make it memorable and celebrate your love!!

Credit: goodhousekeeping.com & countryliving.com & resortsandlodges.com

It’s that beautiful time of year again here in Coeur d’Alene… Fall!

With Fall comes all of the beautiful and colorful leaves that we love and enjoy for about the first 2 weeks.  After they have fallen off the trees, the fun begins with leaves all over our yards and driveways.  We then being the clean up as we ready our yards for winter.  The raking of those beautiful leaves into piles and then scooping them into bags to take to the landfill to throw way. 

DON’T BOTHER with that this year! Spend more time inside this year enjoying your hot cocoa and cozy PJ’s!  Our City of Coeur d’Alene is not only beautiful but they are also awesome!  One of the benefits of living is Coeur d’Alene and our Leaf Pick Up program and its absolutely FREE for you! 

Leaf Pickup! Starting Friday November 12th

Click the link here for leaf pickup map. Find your zone – leaf pickup will happen in alphabetic order.

Some things to keep in mind:

Do:

• You may start putting your leaves out Friday November 2nd.
• Please move cars out of the street if at all possible during leaf pick-up.
• Keep the leaves about one foot off the curb line to facilitate storm water flow.
• Be alert for leaf pick-up equipment traveling through your neighborhood.
• Keep a safe distance away from leaf pick-up heavy equipment.
• Recognize that we have a tough job to do in a very short window between when the leaves fall and when the snow flies.
• Understand that city and private trucks are exempted from covering loads during the leaf pick-up period. Sweepers will follow city trucks to collect remaining/excess leaves.

Don’t:

• Place bagged leaves in street.
• Mix branches, rubble or other refuse in with the leaves.
• Miss the deadline… we only have time for one pass!

Who doesn’t LOVE live music? You’d be surprise by the amount of concerts in the area. With multiple venues and a wide range of artists scheduled to play, there is something for everybody. Here’s a few of the area venues & special events, a bit about them, and their headlining shows. Check it out and enjoy the music this summer!

Knitting Factory

The setting in the Spokane location is one unlike any around. Very intimate venue, it makes it feel like you could reach out and touch the artist on stage and that they’re performing just for you. With a large bar there is little to no standing in line for your drink.

Upcoming Shows:

Band of Horses

Bobaflex

Andy Grammer

Spokane Arena

Although the arena hosts a multitude of different events, it‘s also known for it’s concerts. With 12,500 seats in the facility, many different food vendors and plenty of alcoholic beverage options you’re sure to enjoy any show you attend. 

Upcoming Shows:

Khalid

Disturbed

Bob Seger

First Interstate Center (INB Performing Arts Center)

Newly  renovated to enhance the experience, including new seats. Not to mention, a lounge available for you to sit and enjoy a drink or a bite to eat before the show. Other bars are located throughout the facility for you to grab some beer, wine, or coffee.

Upcoming Shows:

Lonestar

O.A.R.

3 Doors Down

Gorge in George

The most one of a kind place you could ever see a show, where mother nature crafted the perfect concert location.  It’s not about what this venue has, but rather what it doesn’t have. There’s camping (or Glamping if you prefer), food, drinks, views and more!

Upcoming Shows:

Watershed Country Festival

Mumford & Sons

Dave Matthews Band

North Quest Resort 

Enjoy the summer and live music at this outdoor concert venue. It has been newly expanded with a luxury grandstand, bring the seating to 5,000. Unique venue you can enjoy concerts under the stars, not to mention with free parking. Stay and play after the show.

Upcoming Shows:

Pitbull

Bret Eldredge

“Weird Al” Yankovic

Steve Miller Band

Local Shows You Can’t Miss

The Festival at Sandpoint

Two week event in Sandpoint Idaho which has the goal to make great music accessible to the area. All types of artists are scheduled to play, from genres such as country, jazz, blues, folk, world, rock & pop. Live music with dancing, food and more. Located at War Memorial Field, this is one concert series you have to see.

A Few Headliners:

Walk Off The Earth

The Avett Brothers

Kool and the Gang

Spokane County Fair Concert Series

This year at the Spokane County Fair concert series, there’s two days dedicated to country and two days dedicated to rock! After a day full of fair fun, be sure and join the music festivities at one of the 4 concerts!

 Headliners:

Shenandoah & Restless Heart

Trace Adkins

Foreigner

Pop Evil

Live After 5

Weekly concert held at McEuen Park in Coeur d’Alene every Wednesday throughout June, July & August. This is a great family event with beautiful views of the lake.

A Few Headliners:

Willie K

The Shook Twins

Eclectic Approach

Summer Concert Series

Free weekly concerts at Riverstone in Coeur d’Alene every Thursday throughout June, July & August. Going into their 13th year of concerts and with high quality audio sound, it’s sure to amaze every time.

A Few Headliners:

North Point Jazz

Jacob Maxwell

The Talbott Brothers

Want to browse all the area shows, take a look at the list of all the concerts coming up by clicking here!

All fathers deserve the best! But sometimes they might be a little difficult to shop for, so maybe treating them to an experience would be more ideal. There are loads of fun activities you can do with your dad this Father’s Day! Check out some ideas and events happening below.  And if worst comes to worst, there’s also some out of box gift ideas, which are all below $100. 

Activities:

Take advantage of our local lakes and rivers. Rent a boat and enjoy the water. Maybe fishing or just cruising around. Click here for a list of area lakes & rivers plus some boat launches. 

Head out to a brewery. There are a ton of great breweries in our area. If beer is your dad’s thing, check out a list of local breweries by clicking here.

Hike or Bike. Maybe being active is something your dad enjoys. We’re in North Idaho, so there are plenty of places to hike or bike. Check out a great list we put together bu clicking here.

Take him to a live show. Everybody loves music! There are some concerts happening this weekend in the area, check it out here. 

Check out some classic cars. You’re in luck! This weekend is the annual Car d’Alene in beautiful downtown. Check out the details here.

Take him to the golf course. Hit a few balls at a local golf course. Click here for a list of the ones in the area.

Just lay low. Keep it simple and make your dad a nice home cooked meal. Or take him to a nice restaurant in the area and have others doing the cooking for you. 

Local Events:

Father’s Day Cocktail Class – On June 16th you and your dad can make two signature cocktails at Up North Distillery in Post Falls, plus get 20% off all merchandise. 

Father’s Day Buffet – On June 16th at the Coeur d’Alene Casino, dad’s can enjoy a yummy buffet and $3 Manmosas!

Car D’Alene – June 14th and 15th in Downtown Coeur d’Alene, check out some classic cars with your dad.

Out of the Box Gift Ideas

Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit – $35

If your dad is a spice lover, this great gift he help can create his own brand of spice. 

Personalized Spatula – $24.95

Nothing shows your dad you love him more than your name on an item he uses frequently. He’ll think of you every time he uses it.

BeerLoft – $30

Save some room in your dad’s fridge with this beer loft. Now he’ll have more space for his snacks. 

Whisky Wedge and Glass – $18

Help minimize the water dilution in your dad’s whisky but also keeping it chilled. That way it’ll be good to the last drop.

Beer Jelly – $30

Now your dad can eat his favorite beers straight from the tap with jelly infused with craft beers. 

Personalized Engraved Glass Decanter – $29.99

Engrave one side or two sides of a glass decanter for your dad and help them savor whisky the way it was supposed to be.

Bottle Opener Slot Game – $70

Make your dad’s house the place to drink with this slot game. Who knew drinking could become even more fun? 

Check out full lists of great ideas by following the links below:

Uncommongoods.com

Etsy

Personalizationmall.com

Mancrates.com

Credit: Goodhousekeeping

Love is in the air and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! What are you going to do for your sweetie this year? Whether you want to get them something special or do something special, there’s lots of options.  We’re here to help make your day exceptional.

Avoid The Same Old Same Old

Do you tend to get your special someone the same thing each and every year? Maybe some roses and a box of chocolates? This is the year to break that trend and avoid the ordinary!! Check out these great gift ideas that are better than flowers and candy. It’s guaranteed to surprise the one you love:

What a Difference a Day Makes Burlap Print – Personalized Family Dates

This personalized gift is a great way to look back on your relationship. From the day you met, first date, got married, and the birth of your children.

Polaroid Camera

What better way to capture each and every moment as they happen? You can treasure those moments forever. Stick them on your fridge, in a photo album or scrapbook. 

Spa Set

Bring the spa to her! With several different scent options, you can treat your love from the comfort of their own home.

Date Night Bucket List

Switch up the usual with this date night bucket list. Lots of creative date night ideas, both fun and intellectual. Avoid the dreaded “What do you want to do tonight?” question.

Your Vows as an Art Print

Remember your special day in this unique way. Pick the best line from your vows and put them on display.

Edible Bouquet

Satisfy their sweet tooth with a twist. So gorgeous they’ll never want to eat it… if they can resist.

You Know Them Best

When it comes right down to it, you know your love the best. This is an excuse to treat them… maybe spoil them with a spa day. Keep them grilling with a BBQ Set. Make them laugh with a silly mug. Keep them cozy with a new blanket & pillow or PJ set. Get them a little buzzed with their favorite wine. Keep things smelling fresh with a candle. Help them feel pretty with personalized jewelry. Even if it’s the classic flowers & chocolates, get them what they want.

A Night on The Town

Want to take your sweetie out on the town? Beautiful Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding area is never short on events, even for the day of love. And also some great date night ideas you could do on Valentine’s Day or any other.

The Chocolate Affair – On February 8th at the Resort Plaza Shops from 5-8pm

Valentines Bazaar – On February 9th at Garden Plaza in Post Falls from 11am-3pm

Love on the Lake Dinner and Cruises – On February 14th boarding at The Boardwalk Marina at 5pm or 7:30pm

Ice Skating at River Front Park in Spokane – Make an entire night of it and have dinner at an elegant restaurant downtown, catch a movie, go ice skating, and then stay at a nice hotel.

Pinot’s Palette Date Night – You paint half a picture on a canvas and your partner paints the other half, making one giant gorgeous picture. Don’t forget the drinks.

Ski/Snowboard Day – Enjoy the slopes at any one of the great resorts near us!

There are tons of romantic restaurants in the Coeur d’Alene & Spokane area. Click here for a great list in Coeur d’Alene! And here for a list in Spokane!

Romantic Getaways

A getaway with the one you love is needed every now and then. And what better time than Valentine’s Day? Celebrate your love together and enjoy a small vacation. You’ll still be close to home, yet in a world of your own.

Western Pleasure Ranch

Located in gorgeous Sandpoint Idaho, this is a must stay. Visitors get to enjoy astounding views of the surrounding mountain ranges and beautifully constructed log cabins. Don’t forget the horseback riding, outdoor activities, and all the history that comes with it.

Blackwell Hotel

The Blackwell Hotel is located in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. It’s full of elegance, history, and many unique touches. First built in 1904, it still has the original artwork. A very romantic place, a must see!

Coeur d’Alene Resort

Located on the North Shore of Coeur d’Alene Lake, it’s become a top place to stay for visitors. At the resort you will never be bored with accommodations like golfing, spa, pool, restaurants, nightlife and more!  Check out their lake front rooms today.

Northern Quest Dinner & Movie Plus Resort & Casino

This is a one of a kind experience! Dinner & a movie, then dessert & drinks after the credits roll. Don’t forget the gambling & luxury rooms to stay in. Everything you need in one place.

Davenport Hotel

Located in Downtown Spokane, Historic Davenport Hotel is right in the center of everything. With gorgeous city views, a romantic design, a spa, and even jetted tubs and fireplaces in some rooms you’ll never want to leave! Great balance of modern amenities and a historic charm.

Aspen Meadows Bed & Breakfast

This little bed & breakfast is located just 10 minutes from downtown. Close but away from all the crows. Very peaceful and quite location which makes it perfect for a romantic getaway.

No matter how you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, make it memorable and celebrate your love!!

Credit: goodhousekeeping.com & countryliving.com & resortsandlodges.com

One thing you can count on in North Idaho and that is that Idaho has 4 great and very distinct seasons. Each having something fun and unique to offer. From the weather to events, food  and clothes. Above all, there is always something to do in each season. Indoor or outdoor person, it doesn’t matter, there’s something for you. 

Over the next few months there are enough activities in our beautiful city and surrounding area to make your head spin. Below are just a few of  activities you might want to consider.  You can always stay tuned to our What’s Happening Page for January, February & March for a full list. Including dates, times, locations and links!!

• Mamma Mia! – Aspire Community Theatre on Feb. 8 -17. 

It’s a show you can’t miss! The only Pacific Northwest Company to hold this will have this production.

• The Chocolate Affair –  Feb. 8 from 5-8pm

Can’t miss this chocolate tasting event & competition. Test chocolates with the perfect wine pairing with your valentine!

• The Sweetheart’s Ball –  Feb. 15 from 5:30-9:30pm

There will be a buffet dinner, plus a silent & live auction

• Charter Academy’s Soup & Chili Cook-Off – March 2 from 5-8pm

Sample the Soup & Chili.  Also Enjoy Auction Items, Game Room for Kids & Musical Performances

• Bartender’s Ball – March 2nd from 7:30-10:30pm

Check out this cocktail showdown with Local Mixologists!

The above is just a handful of the events happening over the next couple of months. And, there is always many to choose from each month and season.  Get out and enjoy all our area has to offer this winter!! And don’t forget to drop by our What’s Happening Page for January, February & March for a full list. Including dates, times, locations and links!!

John and Tracey Chime In

We love north Idaho. We love the fact that every season has its own unique life.  Festivities, events and change.  You never get bored here.  Just about the time you are ready for a change, Idaho delivers!  Each season has so many fun and unique activities and many that you look forward to all year long.   Idaho keeps it interesting and enjoyable and its just one of the reasons we call this our forever-home! 

John and Tracey Tindall 

Coeur d’Alene never ceases to amaze us. Not only do we get to enjoy the obvious beauty and all the lovely people who live here, but our Lake City offers so many other benefits! Like Theater!! But not just any Theater… Aspire Community Theatre.

Great Local Entertainment

Aspire Community Theatre (ACT) is unlike any other. How, you may ask?  To start, they are a completely non-profit run organization with experienced theatrical artists in charge. It’s a community theater, staffed 100% by volunteers, yet working at a professional level.  As a result, you can count on exceptional and entertaining performances each and every time.

Their Mission

Aspire was founded because many parents of children in theater were unable to find other options once their children graduated.  Their only other option was acting at a professional level.   Creating this theater was a way they could continue to learn and expand their acting abilities right here at home.   Aspire is a conservatory theatre, which means, the students will learning through out each production because they are involved in each aspect of the production.  Aspire incorporates a wide a wide range of groups and ages to keep things lively. Plus, they “not only develop artists, but theater enthusiasts through education and exposure”.  

 Aspire’s mission “is to enrich, entertain and educate our community through exceptional live theater which inspires the imagination and provokes contemplation of truth. Our goal is to honor, reflect and collaborate with the greater community we serve, creating leaders for the future, as we form partnerships today.”  And they do just that!

   Courtesy of the Coeur d’Alene Press

 A Gift To The Community   

Theater is a gift – for both the audience and artists and with 600 season ticket holders it seems like our community agrees.  Bringing together experienced theatrical artists combined with young talent and community leaders; Aspire is determined to improve the lives of not only the artists and productions but this community.  They provide a venue “For the next generation of characters”.   Because of their local success, they are the only theater in the pacific northwest playing Mama Mia! First show is February 8th. 

John and Tracey Chime In

“Our first Aspire experience was for “Catch Me If You Can”.   We were intrigued when they said it would be a MUSICAL!  We loved the movie and were so interested in seeing how it could be made as a musical.   Aspire took that movie to a whole new level as a musical play.  We loved it!  Above all, it was so creative and a throughly enjoyable performance.  We laughed and enjoyed every minute of it.  Aspire offers a diverse and multi-faceted mixture of talent we have not seen in community theater.  If you are looking for a great entertaining evening, go to a performance.  Finally, Mamma Mia would make a wonderful treat for your Valentine!   

John and Tracey Tindall   

Contact us for special ticket discounts!!

Happening in February

Coming to Aspire this February!

Contact us for special ticket discounts!!

Only at Aspire!

Contact us for special ticket discounts!!

Visit Aspire  here!  Check out the upcoming shows and learn organization, donate, sponsor and volunteer.

Credit: https://aspirecda.com/

Calling all Foodies!! One of the fastest growing food industries is coming to our own backyard. Food Trucks! The speed, convenience, quality and price is enough to draw a crowd to the up and coming food truck pavilion in Coeur d’Alene. 

A Great Idea Hatched

The owners of Premier Auction Center in Post Falls teamed up with the owners of the Jitterz Espresso franchise and hatched this great idea. Our area’s next food truck court will have just about everything! That includes 13 food vendors, a Jitterz Coffee stand, 39 parking spots with a large eating pavilion. “Prairie Pavilion” will be located at 7777 Heartland Drive and plans to be open by the spring of 2019. 

Good For Your Tummy and Our Economy

It’ll be great for the consumer as well as helpful to our economy. Food Trucks and the food truck community invest into our local economy and they do so by creating jobs and help recharge underdeveloped areas. One may think they could  be hurtful to the brick-and-mortar restaurants.  Just the opposite,  because  food trucks draw patrons to the area which  increases the amount of foot traffic to other restaurants and surrounding businesses.  Not to mention, restaurants are opening food trucks of their own to keep up with the growing trend. Plus, food truck businesses are required to pay all the same taxes as other restaurants and this generate thousands in tax revenue for the city.

Their Vision

The owners say it’ll be a “happening spot where busy businesspeople can swing through for a quick bite, as well as a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy a relaxing meal.” That will just be the start! Additional plans are “getting kicked around” about making this spot a cornerstone of the community. Possibly having farmer’s markets and music shows available alongside the pavillion. Overall, Prairie Pavilion will be a great spot for everyone and it’ll be right in our backyard!

John and Tracey Chime In

“We have enjoyed some pretty wonderful food from food trucks here in Coeur d’Alene and in other cities.  Dining from a truck will surprise you because you just can’t imagine such amazing and sometimes gourmet food can be cooked up and served from a truck, but it does!  We love this idea and how it brings a new layer and flavor to our area”.  John and Tracey Tindall 

Courtesy of Google Maps

Credit: https://www.cdapress.com/local_news/20190110/street_eats_coming_to_north_coeur_dalene?fbclid=IwAR2H7ELzQOXwSfsRIstFa7UaWw54hje8gnI6donQbybM1uu_jjEZtdFos70 & http://www.dmvfta.org/food-truck-facts

Is that beautiful time of year again here in Coeur d’Alene… Fall!

With Fall comes all of the beautiful and colorful leaves that we love and enjoy for about the first 2 weeks.  After they have fallen off the trees, the fun begins with leaves all over our yards and driveways.  We then being the clean up as we ready our yards for winter.  The raking of those beautiful leaves into piles and then scooping them into bags to take to the landfill to throw way. 

DON’t BOTHER with that this year! Spend more time inside this year enjoying your hot cocoa and cozy PJ’s!  Our City of Coeur d’Alene is not only beautiful but they are also awesome!  One of the benefits of living is Coeur d’Alene and our Leaf Pick Up program and its absolutely FREE for you! 

Leaf Pickup! Starting Friday November 13th

Click the link here for leaf pickup map. Find your zone – leaf pickup will happen in alphabetic order.

Some things to keep in mind:

Do:

• You may start putting your leaves out Friday November 2nd.
• Please move cars out of the street if at all possible during leaf pick-up.
• Keep the leaves about one foot off the curb line to facilitate storm water flow.
• Be alert for leaf pick-up equipment traveling through your neighborhood.
• Keep a safe distance away from leaf pick-up heavy equipment.
• Recognize that we have a tough job to do in a very short window between when the leaves fall and when the snow flies.
• Understand that city and private trucks are exempted from covering loads during the leaf pick-up period. Sweepers will follow city trucks to collect remaining/excess leaves.

Don’t:

• Place bagged leaves in street.
• Mix branches, rubble or other refuse in with the leaves.
• Miss the deadline… we only have time for one pass!