Newsletter — September 2025
Embracing the Heartbeat of Cottage Living
Amid the tall evergreens, the cottage life calls to something deep within us — a longing for connection, a passion for living gently on the earth, and a boundless curiosity about the wild world just beyond our doors. Recently, Sunnyside Village Cohousing members shared outdoor ideas and experiences, discussing various local activities such as biking, hiking, and walking throughout Western Washington.
Sunnyside Cohousing is situated in an area that naturally encourages exploration and outdoor activities, with access to land, water, and sky pursuits. Residents can enjoy options like saltwater boating, winter sports, and even hot air balloon rides.
In this month’s newsletter discover the joy of exploring walking, hiking, and biking trails near Sunnyside. The newsletter ends on a touching note, sharing Marais’s remarkable journey from an adorable puppy to a beloved companion.
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Trailblazing Together: E-Bike Adventures and the Magic of Whitehorse Trail
Sunnyside Cohousing Members Mike and Linda Ann
Enjoying the Beauty of the Pacific Northwest
A couple of years back, Sunnyside members Linda Ann and her husband Mike took a leap into adventure by purchasing E-bikes, and ever since, their rides have been filled with joy. For Linda Ann, her E-bike isn’t just a piece of equipment — it’s a key to shared moments, letting her glide alongside Mike as they tackle hills together and explore winding trails.
Their favorite bike routes are the beloved ‘Rails-to-Trails’—paths born from the transformation of old railroad corridors. These trails, gentle and welcoming, invite everyone outdoors, offering flat or softly rolling terrain that is traversed by young and old alike. Whether you’re strolling, cycling, rolling in a wheelchair, gliding on skates, skiing cross-country, or riding horseback, these rail-trails open up possibilities for connection and delight.
Among their most favorite journeys is the Whitehorse Regional Trail, stretching nearly 27 scenic miles from Arlington (just 14 miles north of Sunnyside Village Cohousing) eastward to Darrington. The Whitehorse Trail traces the historic Burlington Northern & Santa Fe (BNSF) railway through the North Stillaguamish River Valley. Every mile of this corridor is a gift, revealing views of forests, farmlands, sparkling streams, and majestic mountain vistas. Designed for hiking, biking, and equestrian adventures, it’s a trail where nature and community spirit meet — inviting everyone to savor the journey.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Snohomish County: More Sunnyside Member Favorites
Paul and Vicki Greeting Friends
Paul & Vicki
Paul and Vicki suggest exploring the Paradise Valley Conservation Area near Maltby. This spot is known for its mostly flat trails that weave through the forest, with clear markers at each intersection — including signs showing how far it is back to the parking lot. This makes it easy for hikers to choose their own pace and distance, enjoying the outdoors without worry.
Matt & Alison
Alison, Matt, and their family recommend two favorite local parks: Deering Wildflower Acres and Lord Hill Regional Park, both highlighted by the Washington Trails Association. Deering Wildflower Acres features two miles of mainly level paths, shaded cedar groves, bursts of wildflowers, a tranquil pond, and the cheerful songs of birds, creating a peaceful setting for a walk. At Lord Hill Regional Park, you’ll find a broad network of trails that showcase the beauty of classic Pacific Northwest forests. Some paths are shared with horses and cyclists, while others are reserved for hikers only. Every trip offers something new to discover along the way.
Strolling along the seashore, Matt and Alison savor a perfect day.
Marais: A Faithful Friend on Life’s Journey
Marais — exuberance at rest on a warm summer walk.
Many of us at Sunnyside have had the joy of meeting Pm’s beloved dog, Marais.
With her red curls and gentle eyes, this standard poodle—affectionately dubbed a “French water spaniel” by Pm — has been more than just a companion. She’s been a faithful traveler, padding alongside Pm and Jack on adventures from Banff to New England, Oregon to California, and beyond.
Marais will soon celebrate her 11th birthday, though in spirit she’s still the same exuberant puppy we first came to know. These days she takes life a touch more slowly — pausing on warm summer walks, passing up the ocean stick toss she once leapt for with abandon, carrying the small marks of time with grace.
While never officially trained as a service dog, Marais has filled that role in the truest sense, offering Pm unwavering emotional support, joy, and quiet comfort through the years. She is an exuberant reminder of the deep bonds that shape our lives—and of how love, in all its forms, is what makes cohousing and our community whole.
Closing Thoughts
At Sunnyside Village Cohousing, we believe life is richer when it’s shared. If you’ve ever longed for a place where neighbors know your name and where the spirit of community meets the beauty of the Northwest, we invite you to take the next step.
Warmly,
Norm and Jennie and all of us at Sunnyside Village Cohousing