Crop Circles

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

Ikigai is a Japanese concept meaning "a reason for being" or "a reason to wake up in the morning." It represents the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for, promoting a life of purpose and daily fulfillment. What is your Ikigai? **ATTENDANCE POLICY:** To keep this group running smoothly and ensure that spots are available for those who genuinely want to attend, please RSVP only if you are confident you can make it. If you RSVP “Yes” and do not attend without updating your RSVP in advance, you may be restricted from attending future events for a period of time. We understand that things come up. If you can no longer attend, simply update your RSVP as soon as possible so your spot can be offered to someone on the waitlist. Repeated no-shows will result in removal from the group. Thank you for respecting everyone’s time and helping us maintain a reliable and engaged community. **SUPPORT THINKERS AND DRINKERS:** Thinkers and Drinkers International is a registered 501(c)7 nonprofit organization. We work hard to create an organization that adds value to our communities while keeping membership free for all. If you find value in what we’re doing, please consider donating through Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/thinkers](https://www.patreon.com/thinkers) **CONNECT:** Instagram: @ThinkersDrinkersInternational Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/thinkersdrinkersinternational/](https://www.facebook.com/thinkersdrinkersinternational/) Podcast: [https://www.spreaker.com/user/thinkersdrinkersinternational](https://www.spreaker.com/user/thinkersdrinkersinternational) Email: [[ThinkersDrinkersInternational@gmail.com](mailto:ThinkersDrinkersInternational@gmail.com)]

On Monday, we'll meet in front of 2100 Clarendon Blvd around 6:50pm and head out for a nice hilly run at 7pm to see the pretty flowers in bloom near Arlington Cemetery 🌷 We usually head out for a drink after the run. So if you're planning to stay after for drinks, bring your ID/etc. Notes: If you're not familiar with the area, please review the routes. If it's cold, take cover inside the foyer area of 2100 Clarendon Blvd. Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platform. Route: We'll run 20 minutes out from Courthouse along Arlington Blvd towards Arlington Cemetery to check out the tulips 🌷 , and then turn around and run 20 minutes back to Courthouse. Everyone runs at his/her own pace, so the distance will depend on your speed. Courthouse Library > 15th St > Rhodes St > Arlington Blvd sidewalk > N Meade St (Iwo Jima Memorial) > Netherlands Carillon (🔔🌷) > Arlington Cemetery > Memorial Bridge > And back 👈 Pace: All paces are welcome! We'll be doing an out and back route, so everyone will just turn around at the halfway time marker. That way we should all start and end at the same time. Free Parking at Courthouse Plaza: The underground garage (http://tiny.cc/OmKZx) is on Clarendon Blvd btwn Wayne and Veitch Sts. (near Strayer/CVS and the AMC Theater). If the first 2 levels on the left are full, you can park on the lower levels to the right. Street and Surface Parking lots should be free in the area as well. Metro: Orange or Silver line to Courthouse Station.

Specifically catering to those in the LGBTQIA+ community (though Allies are welcome), Queer Circle is a place to gather safely where space is held for everyone. Led by Ginny, the circle focuses on empowerment, individuality, and how our practices entwine with it all. Prepare to work with queer/androgynous deities and beings, and our queer/trans-cestors! HATE HAS NO HOME HERE. Please be conscious of shared experiences and how it may impact fellow circle members. 🏳️‍🌈 fee is $25 🏳️‍⚧️

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "**I accept**" to be permitted on the hike. Join us for an approximately **7 mile hike** around **[Hains Point](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)** along the **[Tidal Basin](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/trail-guides.htm) and over the [Memorial Bridge](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/memorialave.htm).** There is **no elevation** to speak of. Most of the hike is on **pavement.** **Description** The **[2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival](https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/)** in Washington, D.C. runs from **March 20** to **April 12** with **peak bloom** predicted between **March 29** and **April 5, 2026.** **[Hains Point](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)**, located at the **southern tip** of **[East Potomac Park](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)**, is a popular spot to see **Cherry Blossoms**, offering a **less crowded alternative** to the **Tidal Basin.** **It offers** a **4-mile loop trail** ideal for **walking** (and biking), is lined with **cherry trees** and as the point of **convergence** of the **Potomac River**, **Washington Channel** and **Anacostia River**, it provides a **panoramic view** of the area. Emerging from the **Haines point**, we will head along the **Tidal Basin** towards **Memorial Bridge** and then back to the **Marina.** **Facilities:** Columbia Island Marina and at Hains Point. **Where to meet?** We will begin at **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)** (Lady Byrd Johnson Park, GW Parkway, Arlington, VA; Note that the only entrance to the Marina is from the **GW Parkway Southbound.** GPS Coordinates: **[38.876366, -77.049883](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z4K5XxsS8KHsyF1A9)** **Arrival Time: Please arrive by 9 am so that we can get all checked in and leave on time at 9:30 am.** **What to bring?** **Bring:** Be sure and wear sturdy walking shoes; dress in layers; and have adequate hydration. We will stop for lunch/snack along the way. **Hiking Pace:** We will hike at a pace of 2.5-2.7 mph while moving. **You must have experience with hikes of this distance and pace.** **Elevation Gain**: N/A **Dogs** are **not** permitted on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cCe0_KteiZM6qiZMi1PZlgWBf_NBCFD0/view)** **Weather:** the weather for this location can be found **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8).** **Rehydration:** It might be fun to have a snack at **Island Time Bar/Grill** on the water at Columbia Island Marina upon completion of our hike **Leader:** Dawn Keeler 703 533 9231. I will be in a Honda Hatchback, with the hatchback open.

This is a regularly held in-person integration circle and a supportive container that centered on psychedelic experiences. We co-create a space of inclusivity, compassion, and care for all. We gather to help each other integrate our journeys, find "the others", and or seek wisdom about altered states of consciousness. Arrive ready to share honestly, openly, and from the heart. Bring your insights from journeys to unpack or your questions about plant medicines and psychedelic experiences to ask the more experienced journeyers. At 7 pm we will do a short grounding exercise and a brief check-in/ice breaker. At 7:15 pm we will begin the integration circle with honest and open processing of psychedelic experiences. Your facilitators are trained in psychedelic integration and or other coaching/facilitation modalities but we are not mental health professionals, we are community members called to service in mutuality. The event is by donation as we do need to pay for the space and supplies used. The suggested donation is $10-$20/person (cash, Paypal or Venmo). Surplus above and beyond covering costs will go towards future community event facilitation and or materials.

Welcome to all who identify as women—those in their wisdom years and those journeying toward them, embracing cycles of growth, transformation, and deepening self-awareness. This space honors women celebrating the strength, creativity, and wisdom that unfold through each season of the feminine path. In this circle, a crone is not defined by age but by attitude - someone who carries or seeks the wisdom, courage, and self-knowledge that comes with lived experience. You are invited to join the Crone’s circle of women coming together to share wisdom, experience, and inspiration. This gathering offers a welcoming space for reflection, storytelling, and meaningful conversation about life’s journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Whether you seek connection, personal growth, or simply a moment of peace among kindred spirits, this meeting is an opportunity to nurture your inner strength and celebrate the wisdom within us all. Come as you are. To guide and enrich our time together, we will be using books and other creative means—such as rituals ceremonies, journaling, art, and shared activities—to spark insight, deepen connection, and inspire personal growth. Naming of the group will be done in circle. Please bring a journal for our journey. Books can be bought through Sticks and Stones. The first book will be: The Crone Zone: How to Get Older with Style, Nerve, and a Little Bit of Magic by Nina G. Bargiel Host: Cat Entrance cost: $15 Cat Cat began her spiritual journey in her late twenties, drawn to the transformative power of self-discovery and holistic healing. Trained in meditation, earth-based spirituality, yoga, massage, and energy work, she weaves together practices that nurture balance and connection. Her creative spirit finds expression through continued learning, ceremony, rituals, movement, art, crafts, and journaling, which she uses as tools for reflection and transformation. Deeply committed to creating community, Cat fosters spaces where individuals can share, heal, and grow together. Through her work, she continues to explore the harmony between energy, creativity, and the natural world.

This will be our only healing Circle for February. ✨ **An Evening of Reflection, Renewal and Awakening** ✨ Join us for a transformative evening of healing, connection, and self-discovery. Gathered in sacred space around the glow of the fire, we will journey together through meditations designed to ground, restore, and awaken the spirit to purpose and loving service. 🌿 **What to Expect** * Gentle, guided meditations (two new practices each gathering) * Heartfelt sharing in a safe, supportive circle * Space for authentic expression, deep listening, and mutual growth * Meaningful spiritual insights and uplifting discussion This is a gathering for anyone seeking peace, clarity, or community. All are welcome—simply bring an open mind and a respectful heart. 🔥 **When & Where** * We typically meet twice each month on the 2nd & 4th Thursdays. Come as often—or as little—as your spirit calls. * Weather permitting, we gather outdoors in the tipi or by the large fire circle. If needed, we will move indoors. * 💫 **For First-Time Visitors** * No prior experience is needed. * Please arrive **15 minutes early** to settle in. * You are welcome to walk the grounds or explore our crystal shop before the circle begins. 📍 **Directions** * Address: **15406 Riding Stable Rd.** (property is at the end of a ½ mile driveway into the woods). * You will cross a small stream—drive slowly (under 10 MPH) to keep dust down. * Please be mindful of our neighbors and do not stop to interact with horses along the way. * 💖 **Energy Exchange** To help keep this gathering accessible, we invite an offering of **$15–$25**. If you feel called to contribute in another way, please reach out in advance. With love and gratitude, we welcome you into this circle of renewal.

Spring is finally here! To celebrate, let's visit the tulips at Brookside Gardens before walking through the Seminary Historic District and making our way over to Bethesda. We'll finish off by visiting Max's Best Ice Cream for a sweet treat to end the day https://maps.app.goo.gl/ Part I - Walk to Brookside Gardens (1.6 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2ARZeSKNXob9z8A9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2ARZeSKNXob9z8A9) Part II - Walk around Wheaton Regional Park (2.5 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/czHfnKj81UZdYPf49](https://maps.app.goo.gl/czHfnKj81UZdYPf49) Part III - Walk through Seminary Historic District to Bethesda (9.4 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1qcehvqPrdL6JiU7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1qcehvqPrdL6JiU7) **Mileage:** \~13.0 miles **Start Location:** Glenmont Metro Station **End Location:** Bethesda Metro Station **Time:** 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM **Terrain:** This will be have a solid amount of uphill (\~900 feet) elevation gain) with a mix of paved, gravel, and trail surfaces

Open your heart, find your voice... We invite you to come sing with us! Gathering together, we will sing some sacred songs from various traditions/cultures. This is a wonderful heart-opening experience. An opportunity to connect with yourself, others, and Spirit through song. Let's share this medicine in community like our ancestors have done for generations before us. No experience needed - come as you are. Song sheets provided. Rhythm instruments, such as rattles and drums, are welcome. This event is led by Mandy and Theresa. Weather permitting, this event will be held outdoors in our large fire circle area. If the weather shifts, we will move indoors. Space is limited, so RSVP is required. This also helps in case we need to notify you of any changes or updates. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. Given the time of year, this event will be held indoors in our large great room. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome, as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. You are also welcome to walk our grounds or check out our crystal shop. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable Rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile long driveway into the woods. You will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) so as to not stir up any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway, so it’s important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. Suggested Donation: $15-30. There's a bowl by the front door. Put in what feels right. There are also Venmo and Paypal options. With Love and Gratitude

The monthly **[Song Circle](https://www.fsgw.org/event-6605778)** provides a daytime opportunity to enjoy delightful songs, old or new, humorous or serious, timeless or topical. **Free!** **Everyone is welcome**, regardless of experience. Come for informal group singing or just to listen, in person or via Zoom. **With income taxes due on April 15 and Earth Day on April 22, bring or request your favorite Spring songs, songs about taxes or the environment, or any other songs!** [Learn more](https://www.fsgw.org/event-6605778) **Elizabeth Rosenberg and Joe Whitesell** will lead songs with guitar accompaniment, and any participant may lead any song, *a cappella* or self-accompanied. The Song Circle will be held in person at the **Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center, 1000 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, MD 20901**. Plenty of free parking!

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

In April WQC's Creativity Circle will be making beaded bracelets and keychains! All supplies provided, open to all, bring yourself (and a friend or two) for when you are able to make it in the two hour window. Note: Seats are Limited to the provided space at the Westerville Public Library in Meeting Room D.

Join us again this Saturday for drinks and sweets at this delicious Vegan co-op bakery. Mingle with likeminded Columbus Vegans. We will aim to sit outside after purchasing items and hopefully taking in cooperative weather. Special note on parking: Please try to park along Acton, Richards and/or Chatham streets so as to free up the lot at the back of the building for pick-up orders. Thank you. 😊 Patty Cake offers everything from cupcakes, cookies, cakes, muffins, whoopie pies, as well as gluten free goodies. They also have coffee, oat milk and cold brew

Let's Crop!

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. We meet in the bar in the room on the right (the cigar shop). You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant. *** Did you know that there are atheists everywhere?!?! You may not know it, but we are! We're in your schools, diners, police force, military, government, and some are even still in your churches! So come and join us and meet other local atheists, along with agnostics, heathens, humanists, skeptics, and anyone else who's 'hell bound'! Vision: a Central Ohio that accepts atheism as a viable alternative in all areas of public and private life. Mission: grow, support, and provide community for atheists in Central Ohio. Social meetings held most Tuesdays at a local pub/restaurant at 7:00 PM (and often into the wee hours). Attendees call themselves agnostics, skeptics, humanists, non-theists, deists or even theists. All attendees are welcome but should support our vision. Atheists of Columbus (AoC) is part of Omnipresent Atheists (OA). AoC members are invited to join this OA meetup and/or OA Facebook group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/omnipresentatheists/ ) but are free to continue conversations on the AoC Facebook group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/columbusatheists/ ). AoC was founded in 2012 as a networking, social group for Central Ohio area humanists, skeptics, atheists, agnostics, nonbelievers, freethinkers, and the curious. It was a member of Columbus CoR and held weekly meetings, mostly on Fridays, for several years but then operated as an online only group for some time. In November 2018, Omnipresent Atheists (OA), a group that routinely meets on Tuesdays, invited AoC to merge. Omnipresent Atheists is a member of the Columbus Coalition of Reason (ColumbusCoR.org). Omnipresent Atheists is a member of the Columbus Coalition of Reason ( http://www.ColumbusCoR.org ). Omnipresent Atheists endorses the mission of the Secular Coalition for America ( http://secular.org ).