Launching this publication was never part of the plan. At least not my plan anyway, or one I could have ever imagined. But life has a way of gently (and sometimes not so gently) guiding us along winding paths until the bigger picture finally comes into focus.

I grew up in sunny San Clemente, California. Raised on beaches and boards - surfboards, skateboards, and snowboards. Sports shaped me early. Years of competitive soccer and running taught me endurance, grit, and stamina. Lessons that would quietly prepare me for chapters I didn’t yet know were coming.

In my mid-twenties, a spark of restlessness led me across state lines and into the Rockies, where I spent a season snowboarding in Breckenridge, Colorado. From there, I landed in Denver with the intention of finishing my degree and stepping into a healthcare career. After school, life had other plans. I found myself opening many restaurants (and bars) across multiple states, launching nearly 15 locations as a manager on the front lines. It was fast-paced, demanding, and formative. When that chapter eventually ran its course, I transitioned into selling accounting and back-office software to restaurants. A role that stretched me in new ways and taught me how to dig deeper, trust myself, and grow through peaks and valleys.

A few years ago, the journey finally brought me “home,” to Idaho. Drawn by family and the pull of roots. That move has been a blessing in countless ways. It was through that return to family and where we all now call home, that I found The N2Co. Or perhaps they found me. 

The N2Company was looking for a publisher to launch the first STROLL magazine in Idaho. Founded 21 years ago by two gentlemen, who believed in the power of neighborhood storytelling, STROLL (the flagship of the company) now connects nearly 600 affluent communities nationwide. Yet Idaho was still waiting for it’s first issue. That idea was something I could not seem to dismiss. 

I’ve always loved being the first. Maybe that comes from being the eldest sibling, or maybe from my competitive years in sports. Either way, the opportunity to serve as a torchbearer for STROLL in this beautiful state felt deeply aligned. This wasn’t just a business opportunity, it was a chance to bring neighbors closer together through the stories that make communities feel like home.

Of course, there was doubt. And some fear. Can I really do this? Will neighbors embrace it? Will businesses support it? Can I leave the security of a corporate career and build something new—on my own? Through prayer, faith, and many quiet moments of reflection, I found my answer. Even when my own doubts were loud, God’s voice was steady and clear: Yes.

This publication would not exist without the unwavering support of my family, friends, business sponsors, and Hidden Springs neighbors—those who welcomed me, encouraged me, and lifted me when I needed it most. Your belief in me, in The N2 Company, and in this vision has meant more than I can express. I truly believe the more you see, the more you’ll believe.

This is only the beginning of a long and meaningful road—one filled with stories, connections, and shared moments. Thank you for welcoming a “foreigner” into your community and trusting me with your stories. I am deeply grateful and honored to grow alongside you as we strengthen the bonds that make this place so special.

Here’s to the journey ahead—and to the power of community.

Warmly,

Nicole Harrison

Publisher | Owner Stroll Hidden Springs

(949) 683-3858