The principles of a good neighbor as defined by Merriam-Webster are friendship, cooperation, and noninterference in the internal affairs of another country. I admit the use of 'country' over 'neighbor' threw me off too, but for all intents and purposes, let's just go with it. After all, the dictionary folks are on to something. Who wouldn't want to share a property line with a friendly, easy-going someone who minds their own business and not yours?

What qualities make for a great neighbor in Idaho?

When I moved here eight years ago, the question was a daunting one. Having grown up in the Midwest, I wondered if my Breadbasket values would click here. Give or take a few regional quirks, I'm happy to tell you they do. Get ready to lend your neighbor a cuppa sugar! We're breaking down the unwritten rules of good neighbors in the Gem State.

 Simple Ways To Be a Good Neighbor in Idaho

1. The Mowing. Most Idaho Homeowners Associations permit residents to mow their laws between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. If you're the neighbor out there at 7:01 on a Saturday morning, we wish a plague of white clover, foxtail, and dandelions on your lawn. Kindly refrain from early morning mows unless absolutely necessary.

2. The Mailbox. When the neighbors are out of town, spare them the trouble of having their mail held at the post office. Be the house that steps up to hold onto their mail.

3. The Noise. Read the block and know your neighbors. Ask your neighbors what time they go to bed so you know when to keep it down. Some folks go to sleep before HOA Quiet Hours, so they'll appreciate your consideration.

4. The Cans. If you get home before your neighbor and see their garbage cans are still on the curb, pull them up to the garage. My neighbors are always grateful when I do this for them. Remember, it's the little things that add up to being a stellar neighbor.

5. The Watcher. During my time as a stay-at-home mom, I took it upon myself to pay attention to what went on in our neighborhood. From reporting shady solicitors to the police and my neighbors, to keeping an eye out for the neighborhood kids as they walked from the bus stop to their door, my neighbors knew I cared.

6. The Little Things. Shovel your neighbor's driveway in the winter. Help the pregnant mom with a toddler at her side bring in the groceries. Let them know their kids can rely on you for help when they're away. Be kind. Be patient. And do you what you can no matter how small it might seem. It's the little things that make for a great neighbor.

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