Agnostic Parents

Assumptions help us make sense of a complex world whilst preserving our time and energy, but when left unchecked they can get in the way of relationships as our minds tend to fill in the blanks, jump to conclusions, and assume we know what someone means. This workshop is an invitation to discover what becomes possible when we stop relating to our story of someone and start relating to the actual person in front of us by using one of the most powerful relational tools we have, our own curiosity. When we use curiosity well, conversations become richer, misunderstandings dissolve, and connections become easier and more alive. Through playful, insightful and connecting exercises, we will experiment with how it feels to replace “I know” by “I wonder” and: * Bring more awareness to how much we assume and what it feels like when people assume things about us * Learn how to notice our assumptions and check them out skillfully * Use curiosity as the antidote * Be interested to make conversations more interesting * Build our curiosity muscle * Find the topics that are of interest to everyone involved * Learn to ask questions that invite depth **TICKETS** Tickets start at $30. We’re committed to accessibility and offer further discount if money is a real barrier to attending. [Book here](https://www.mysoremelbourne.com/authentic-relating) **FUNDAMENTALS OF AUTHENTIC RELATING** Fundamentals of Authentic Relating (AR) happens every 3rd Saturday of the month. It’s for people who want to bring more awareness, honesty, and connection into their relationships. Anyone curious about personal growth, wanting more ease and connection in their interactions, interested in improving their relational skills, or wishing to gain a formal understanding of AR frameworks and mechanics. Sessions are themed and we’ll begin by exploring how to notice what is happening inside (Feb), followed by listening more deeply (Mar), developing curiosity (Apr), expressing oneself with clarity and courage (May), and navigating boundaries and conflict with care (June). **YOUR FACILITATOR** Guillaume has been training in Authentic Relating since 2020, and most recently with ART international (level 4 facilitation certification). He facilitates online and in-person AR workshops for corporates, training institutions, mental health organisations (Menergy, Island of Men), and at private events and festivals (Confest, Renaissance). After 15+ years in leadership positions in the corporate world, Guillaume’s focus is now in the relational arts (Authentic Relating, Circling, Non Violent Communication) and therapeutic modalities (counselling, Gestalt psychotherapy). He is the founder of [Relational Spaces](https://relational-spaces.com/) where he supports others in their personal growth both through individual sessions and group facilitation, and the co-creator of Intentional dinner, a space for human connections and a meal.

Join us for a relaxed, family friendly picnic at Fairfield Boathouse and Tea Gardens 🌿 This is a collaboration between NeuroSparks and Pawshare Club, bringing together people who value genuine connection, community, and time outdoors. Expect a casual, welcoming space to meet others, spend time with pets, and enjoy low pressure social connection by the river. Come solo, with family, as a carer, or with a pet. All ages are welcome 🐶 No structure, no pressure. Just good people, fresh air, and space to connect. **Date:** April 18 **Time:** 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM **Location:** Fairfield Park Boathouse and Tea Gardens 🎟️ **Free Event** No cost to attend. Just bring yourself. 🐕 **Guidelines** Dogs must remain on leash at all times Do not bring dogs with aggressive behaviour 🌧️ **Weather** If weather is poor, the event will be rescheduled and updated here ⚠️ **Liability** You attend at your own risk You are responsible for yourself and any pets you bring **Co Hosts** 🐾 Pawshare Club [https://pawshareclub.com](https://pawshareclub.com) ✨ NeuroSparks [https://www.meetup.com/neurodivergent-sparks/](https://www.meetup.com/neurodivergent-sparks/)

Join us for a family and pet-friendly Neurosparkles picnic at the Fairfield Boathouse and Tea Gardens. Come down, and make the most of the autumnal weather. Likely to be the last picnic for a few months *🥶* Come solo, with family, as a carer, or with a pet. All ages are welcome 🐶 No structure, no pressure. Just good people, fresh air, and space to connect. **When:** Saturday 18th April **Time:** 12:30pm to 4:30pm **(come and go anytime)** **Where:** Fairfield Park Boathouse and Tea Gardens, the closest street is Heidelberg Rd **Feel free to bring a picnic blanket, board/card or garden games, food/drinks to share - but this is entirely optional.** 🐕 **Guidelines** Dogs must remain on leash at all times Do not bring dogs with aggressive behaviour You are responsible for yourself and any pets you bring If you have issues finding us feel free to comment below or message an event host via Meetup or post in our WhatsApp community. Location is here: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8) What to bring (optional): * Picnic mats, foldable chairs, or blankets * Snacks or drinks to enjoy or share * Games or cards if you’d like to keep things lively Remember to stay hydrated, wear a hat and apply sunscreen and stay warm as it will be a cold day. If weather is poor, the event will be rescheduled and updated here Nearest transport: • Route 250 or 251 bus then short walk • Route 546 bus on Heidelberg Rd • 15 minute walk from Dennis Station **The event is open to all neurodivergent people, their families, carers and pets and anyone who values a friendly, inclusive space. Many attendees come on their own, so if you’re feeling a bit hesitant, know you’ll be in good company and warmly welcomed.** If at any point you have concerns or feel uncomfortable about any group member, please notify one of the organisers. Disclaimer & Safety Notice By attending this Meetup, you agree: • Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. • Organisers are community volunteers, not medical or professional providers. • You are responsible for your own safety, choices, and belongings. • Organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage at any time. • If you have health or access needs, please make your own arrangements. • In an emergency, call 000 immediately. By joining, you accept full responsibility for your actions and well-being.

Our late afternoon get-together, (4-5.30pm) for a drink and conversation *en français* at Southgate food court by the Yarra river. It is easy to find. If weather is fine, we will get together in the sheltered seating area (as per photo above) outside the food court *en plein air. If cold and raining we will sit inside the foodcourt near the Grill'd outlet.* Southgate food court is just across the river from Flinders Street Station. We can buy a glass of wine or hot drink inside the food court. A glass of wine costs $11 at Grill'd or Rhumbas. Any change of arrangement, will be posted on the meetup website.

**Registration required at below link:** **Tickets: $50** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-autumn-edition-or-western-victoria Oot & Aboot is a volunteer-run registered LGBTQIA+ charity creating inclusive outdoor and nature-based experiences that support mental wellbeing. The Community Camp is a relaxed, low-pressure overnight camping experience designed to bring LGBTQIA+ people and allies together in nature. This is our very first event, and we’re intentionally keeping it simple. There’s no packed schedule or expectations — just space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the outdoors in good company. Across one autumn night, you can look forward to: * A welcoming and inclusive camp environment * Lawn and board games * Casual group walks in nature * Plenty of unstructured community time to talk, laugh, and connect * A simple self-serve breakfast on Sunday morning This is an **adults-only (18+)** event with a maximum of **30 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. The campsite is located near Barrys Reef, VIC, approximately a one-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. For safety and privacy reasons, the exact location will be provided only to confirmed ticket holders and can be found on the ticket sent via email. Please remember to check your junk or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox. Know before you go: * Participants should bring their own camping gears (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, and drinks (except breakfast) * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements — please bring food that meets your needs * Some uneven ground and bush walking may be involved * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance. Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Powered and grassed sites * Camp Kitchen: Includes microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, electric hotplates and grill * Laundry: Washing machine, dryer (coin operated), clothesline * Free WIFI (only certain area) * BBQ (coin operated) * Available to purchase: washing powder, bagged firewood and bagged ice (subject to stock availability) Oot & Aboot events are grounded in respect, inclusion, and care. We aim to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ people and allies feel safe, welcome, and supported. If you’re looking for a gentle way to reconnect with nature and community, we’d love to have you join us. ## FAQs 1\. Who is this event for? This event is for LGBTQIA+ adults and allies (18+). It’s designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure. 2\. Do I need camping experience? No. This is a relaxed community camp. If you can set up basic camping gear, you’ll be just fine. 3\. What does my ticket include? Your ticket covers campsite fees, access to facilities, lawn and board games, casual group walks, and a simple shared breakfast on Sunday morning. 4\. What food is provided? A simple self-serve breakfast (bread, spreads, fruit, tea & coffee) is included. Please bring your own food and drinks for all other meals. 5\. Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements. Please bring food that meets your needs. 6\. Can I bring alcohol? Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. 7\. Are pets allowed? No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted at this event. 8\. Will I get the exact location after booking? Yes. Exact campsite location will be shared with confirmed ticket holders for safety and privacy. 9\. What should I bring? Bring your own camping gear, food and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event.

Fellas, Come along, grab a coffee, and connect with other dads who understand life after separation. Chat if you feel like it, and enjoy a good coffee. I’ll be sitting with my push bike helmet on the table — just come up, say hello, and grab a seat. Cheers, Paul

**What's going to happen?** There are 4 activities to choose from: **Connection Carousel** (structured conversations), a **Board Game Table**, a **Choose Your Own Adventure** hangout area, and a **Quiet Retreat Space**. Refer to the [detailed plan here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Where is it?** It's in the Sandringham Library event space, a short walk from Sandringham railway station. Refer to the [visual directions here to find it](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Who's it for?** Whether you have Adult ADD/ADHD, ADHD, Autism, or identify with any other neurodivergent traits, this event is a safe space for open discussions and support. Connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and learn from each other's unique perspectives on living with neurodivergence. Our goal is to foster a community where everyone feels accepted, understood, and empowered. Come spice up your neurodivergent journey with us!

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'I'd Rather Not' by Robert Skinner. The blurb: 'From one of Australia’s most wryly funny writers comes an original and utterly hilarious memoir of reaching for the stars while lying in a ditch *I was sleeping in what might reasonably be described as a ditch, though I tried not to think of it in those terms for morale reasons . . .* Robert Skinner arrives in the city, searching for a richer life. Things begin badly and then, surprisingly, get slightly worse. Pretty soon he's sleeping rough and trying to run a literary magazine out of a dog park. His quest for meaning keeps being thwarted, by endless jobs, beagles, house parties, ill-advised love affairs, camel trips and bureaucratic entanglements. Sometimes a book catches the spirit of the times. *I'd Rather Not* is about work, escape and that something more we all need. 'I was told this man came from the Adelaide Plains and so commenced to read his work. By the time I realised I'd been viciously misled and he actually grew up in Magill, it was too late. I was already completely in love with the book. It's an absolute bag of lollies.' —Annabel Crabb 'Robert Skinner writes with humour, intelligence and heart. Pick up this book and you may never put it down.' —Tony Birch 'This book is like a big, properly made gin and tonic drunk outside in a garden on a perfect Saturday afternoon.' —Cate Kennedy '…no other book brought me as much joy as this hilarious and deceptively artful collection, and in these uncertain times that is worth plenty.' —Michael Winkler 'No one writes better when the stakes are lower.' —Sam Vincent 'My heart leaps whenever I see Robert Skinner's by-line; I know I am in for a hilarious literary treat complete with wry pearlers, gallows truths and wicked timing. People will say he is Australia's Sedaris, but he's not. He's Robert Skinner and he's a bloody marvel.' —Anna Krien 'Brevity may be the soul of wit, but the nimble economy of this slim volume will make readers pine for more. A decidedly skewed, hilarious collection of life reflections and colorful storytelling.' —*Kirkus* 'Seriously the funniest book I've read all year. I can't stop thinking about Robert Skinner's forays into the most mundane and frustrating aspects of life - Centrelink, being a tour guide, applying for arts funding - and the shameless truths he not only reveals about himself but about us as a society. Read this book with a bottle of wine, and be alarmed and enlightened!' —Alice Pung 'If only all books were as funny, human and true as *I'd Rather Not*. I raced through it, marvelling and envious all the way.' —Michelle de Kretser 'Skinner has been compared to Oscar Wilde, but his book is as self-effacing as it is quip-witted.' —Beejay Silcox, *The Guardian* 'The best Australian books of 2023' 'Skinner has been called the Australian David Sedaris and it's easy to see why. Both have the same droll, self-deprecating humour and both mine their own lives for maximum mirth-making potential. [...] a book with a several-laughs-a-page quotient.' –Thuy On, *Arts Hub* 'The funniest book I have read for a long time' —Andy Griffiths, author of *The Treehouse* series" Goodreads rating: 3.71 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

By popular demand, D is for Dumplings + Donuts! Now that we're in autumn and the weather is getting cooler, what's better than a plate of steaming hot dumplings to start with? **ITINERARY** 11.30am - Meet at JUICY BAO in Chinatown. That's the time it opens, so it's our best opportunity to find a big table to ourselves before the crowd arrives. I recommend that we order separately: the xiaolongbao (steamed pork dumplings with soup filling) is a popular choice - do watch out for the hot soup squirting if it's your first encounter! Preview the menu here: https://restaurantguru.com/Juicy-Bao-Melbourne/menu After lunch, we'll meander along Lt Bourke and Elizabeth St past St Francis Catholic Church and more restaurants to our second destination, SHORTSTOP COFFEE AND DONUTS. Around the corner from Shortstop is GUILDFORD LANE, a charming laneway some of us explored on a previous outing. It's one of my favourite hidden laneways in the CBD - less touristy than AC/DC but no less loved. You'll see what I mean. 1pm - SHORTSTOP COFFEE AND DONUTS Get your caffeine fix and enjoy choosing from the range of fancy flavours: https://www.short-stop.com.au/product-category/melbourne/ The event ends at 1.30pm. P.S. There is an organizer fee of $10 per person for this event. Feel free to pay in cash on the day or PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low). **GETTING THERE** The closest train station to Chinatown is Melbourne Central.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

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

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.