Reflections on Gratitude and the Winter Solstice at Rooted Northwest

As the year draws to a close, the pace at Rooted Northwest naturally slows. Days shorten, the land rests, and gatherings take on a quieter, more reflective tone. This season—stretching from Thanksgiving through the Winter Solstice—invites us to pause, take stock, and give thanks for what is being cultivated here together.

Rooted Northwest is still becoming. Homes are yet to be built, paths still imagined. And yet, something real already exists: a growing community shaped by shared values, shared effort, and a deep respect for land and one another. In this season of gratitude, future neighbors took time to reflect on what they’re thankful for as this village continues to take shape.

Many shared gratitude for the people they’re building alongside.

“I am grateful for the friends made this year while working on getting Rooted NW up and running, and looking forward to having those friends as neighbors.”
— Kathy

That sense of relationship—formed early, before move-in, before daily proximity—is something that continues to surface again and again.

“I'm grateful for so many people pitching in to share their gifts of expertise, kindness, time, energy, food, humor, and all the other things that make this community of humans great!”
— Karen

Others reflected on the land itself, and the living systems that already bring joy and nourishment.

“I’m grateful for the farmers who grow beautiful produce and herbs on the land that we can buy directly from (we can’t get more local than that!), animals that bring me endless joy (welcome to new ducks and geese), and the meals and laughter we’ve all shared together.”
— Yuko

There’s also a deep appreciation for the work—often unseen—that makes a project like this possible.

“I'm thankful for our professional team who has helped us navigate our way to a long string of county and state approvals (preliminary plat, sitework, water, septic, building permits, etc.) that make Rooted NW possible!”
— Dave

And for the wider circle of supporters who believe in Rooted Northwest, whether or not they’ll ever call it home.

“I'm grateful for all of the people who are cheering us on and taking meaningful actions to make Rooted Northwest villages a reality, even though they may never live or farm here. From providing connections and capital, to opening doors, smoothing paths, and sharing expertise. Working with them is inspiring, and helps reinforce for me just how special this project is.”
— Christine

Several reflections spoke to the heart of what Rooted Northwest is working toward: not just housing, but a functional, resilient village.

“I am grateful for the vital community of Rooted NW… A functional community doesn't just happen, it is cultivated. I am enjoying the exciting process of creating a village.”
— Celia

And for some, gratitude is deeply tied to purpose—finding steadiness in building something meaningful during uncertain times.

“I'm thankful everyday that I get [to] help build a community land project at the scale and impact of Rooted NW. The chaos I see in the world is far less impactful on me because I get to build a project that directly works to address so many of the topics that worry me.”
— Erik

Gathering at the Darkest Time of the Year

On the Winter Solstice, the Rooted Northwest community gathered for our cookie-decorating tradition. It was a simple, light-hearted way to spend time together at the darkest point of the year—sharing conversation, laughter, and a table full of cookies.

The Winter Solstice is a natural moment for reflection. As the land rests and the days begin to slowly lengthen, it’s a reminder that even in quieter seasons, the work of building community continues—through relationships, shared experiences, and time spent together.

Coming out of the season of gratitude and into the return of the light, this gathering captured what Rooted Northwest is about: showing up, contributing in small but meaningful ways, caring for the land, and building something collectively over time.

We’re grateful for everyone who joins us, supports the project from afar, and continues to be part of this growing community.