Janae Stephens: I love the idea of living in a supportive cohousing community where I know and love my neighbors. My husband, Gary, and I, have lived on a rural off-grid homestead in Mendocino County for over 40 years and are ready for our next adventure. We are artists and business owners and are both passionate about healthy living. I want to live in an eco-friendly community surrounded by nature where we all have our private dwellings as well as access to a beautiful common house with a vegan kitchen and dining hall, and guest rooms. Other shared spaces might include an art studio, or a multi-purpose community room for meetings, movement, and meditation, etc. I envision common outdoor spaces such as a large community garden, and possibly a hot tub and sauna. I want to age gracefully in a supportive community that contributes to the healing our world. I have a tremendous amount of energy and good health, with lots more life to experience and share.   

Jill Sieden: I have enjoyed a fulfilling, yet demanding, career as an organization effectiveness advisor for over 40 years. When I left my job in 2020, I felt liberated into the next (third) phase of my life. Yet, had no idea what I wanted… until I became inspired to participate in the development of GreenLeaf Cohousing. I long to build a sense of community and family with others who share my values for a healthy lifestyle, and skillfully practice living peacefully with the earth and each other. I love being in nature, so our search for land in a semi-rural setting close to nature and necessary amenities, shared organic garden, and eco-friendly practices appeal to me. I’m heartened to have both the independence of a private home, with the joy of shared community activities and resources. Practically, our evolving financial and legal savvy is a bottom-line necessity enabling GreenLeaf… and me!... to be affordable and sustainable.