Backyard Vegetable Gardening

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

Come out for a full weekend of track practice at the Dulles I2S lot! The NYC guys are back for even more! Airplanes taking off and landing at IAD fly directly overhead, and in the right conditions their shadows pass directly over the track! We’ll be running a course on the nice lots where we usually run that takes elements we all need practice on from Willow Springs kart track. Grid/T-Race is available to set up for those who want to drill short track technique. Parking available on site. Within skating distance of Dulles Airport Metro station on silver line. If you don’t plan to metro to Dulles, please drive if you can, or ride at your own risk, as the surrounding roads aren’t conducive to PEV traffic. Charging and food are likely available within a mile on rideable roads, but don’t hold me to that. We’ll figure something out if it comes to it. I’ll have a small generator capable of about 800w on site. Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FMcQsXCuSL1VZWdk6 Track map: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/mapviewer/index.html?webmap=fc8f9f195806433ab7d5d1eb12657516&center=-77.433928%2C38.975058&scale=1128.497176

Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park during our visit. Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 14.2 Miles * **Duration:** 4.5-5.5 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 506 Feet * **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers. * **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp. * **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry. * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912 * **AllTrails Maps**: * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse. Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse. Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed. The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/). Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :) I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions. **Saturday Itinerary:** * 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking. * 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc. * 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back. * 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed. **Sunday Itinerary:** * Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).​ See you on the trail! **[Featured Image Source](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/)**

Info to Know: Admission: Free - A donation box for parking is $2 a day or $20 a year Dogs: Allowed on a Leash Bathrooms: In the Horticulture/Visitor Center Address: 4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312 Location: Lat, Long: 38.824471, -77.159254 = Witch Hazel Rd to park on side of the road if the gate to the parking lot is closed Plus Code: RRFR+Q7 Lincolnia, Virginia Website: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring Types of Photography: Landscape, Close Up, and Birds Green Spring Gardens, which sits on 9.5 acres of land, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020! Even though the address on the website is 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Virginia, it is actually on a side street that has no parking or any viable access to their parking lot. The best way to access the Gardens parking lot is from Little River Turnpike, head north on Braddock Road, and turn right onto Witch Hazel Road. Since the Group’s field trips begin at 7:00 AM, but the Green Spring Gardens gate is not lifted until later, photographers park on the side of Witch Hazel Road and take a short walk to the park. Or, in the alternative, if Witch Hazel is full on the weekends, parking is available in the business parking lot next door. There are two main buildings at the Gardens. One is the Green Spring's Historic House, and the other is the Visitor Center. There is also a greenhouse attached to the visitor center with flowers and plants. The field trip here begins at the parking lot, where flowers and birds can be photographed. Next, the Group takes one of the paths towards the Historic House, where there are many different types of flowers, including bleeding hearts, and also where several butterflies congregate. Waterproof shoes can help your feet from getting wet on the grass. Continuing on this path past the Horticulture/Visitor Center that leads to individual gardens. At this juncture, another trail appears that takes you down a meandering hill and across a stream. The trail leads to two small ponds, one has lotus flowers and the other a gazebo. Stay on this path and head toward Green Spring Road. Make a left turn, to head back to the parking lot and Witch Hazel Road. At the end of this field trip, the Group typically has breakfast at JukeBox Diner, 7039 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003 (jukeboxdiner.com) Bring: Water, fully charged batteries, empty cards, tripod, comfortable shoes Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

NextGen is hosting a bird walk at Neabsco Creek Boardwalk in Prince William County. We encourage you to bring a camera and try to get some good photos of birds (and other things we see), but it is not necessary. Please bring binoculars if you have a pair, otherwise we will have some that you can borrow. We will meet in the parking lot located at 15125 Blackburn Rd, Woodbridge, VA 22191, by the pavilion on the right-hand side after you pull into the lot. If you cannot attend, please change your RSVP to "No" so that the waitlist can be opened up. In the event that this event has to be cancelled, communication via Meetup notification/email will be sent as soon as possible. Feel free to reach out with any questions. Description from [PWC government website](https://www.pwcva.gov/department/neabsco-creek-boardwalk): "The Neabsco Creek Boardwalk traverses Neabsco Creek, allowing hikers access to wetlands where the tall grasses and marsh filter pollution from the river and provide a rich habitat for great blue herons, wood ducks, mallards, sparrow and red-winged blackbirds, just to name a few of the winged wildlife known to populate the area. The boardwalk has quickly become a popular spot for wildlife photographers to families out enjoying nature at it's finest. Neabsco Creek Boardwalk is 10’ wide and 3,300’ long (.625 miles), with a two-level observation deck, a single-level observation deck, and three overlooks. The decks and overlooks provide opportunities for outdoor classroom use. The boardwalk encourages visitors to become invested in preserving this natural treasure. The walkway is part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, which was established by Congress in 1983 designating an 800-mile trail network stretching from the Allegheny Mountains in Pennsylvania to the Potomac River, winding through Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia. The project is designed to showcase Woodbridge's most valuable natural asset -- the Potomac waterfront – while linking historic landmarks such as Rippon Lodge and Leesylvania Park."

Welcome to the Fairfax Home Board Game Group. I have been running this group for 3+ years, every other Saturday. The group has evolved since I first started, so I thought I should update the description to more closely describe how it runs today. This group is hosted at my home in Fairfax and primarily plays hosted games, meaning a player owns the game and will teach others at the table how to play. Below are some tips for a great first visit and what to expect. *** **Tips for the Best Experience for Newcomers** 1. Check the event messages periodically, and more frequently as the event gets closer. If you see someone hosting a game you are interested in, respond to the post to reserve a space. 2. Watch a "how to play" video for the game you want to play. While the host will teach the game at the table, coming prepared will make for a better experience. Most hosts will post a link to a "how to play" video in their initial post. If you want to host a game feel free to post in the event and see if there is interest! 3. Arrive on time. Games tend to start promptly between 8:30pm and 8:45pm — I make it a rule not to wait past 8:45pm. Please also avoid arriving earlier than 8:15pm; if you get to the house before then, please wait in your car as we are usually still getting last-minute things ready. If you do arrive late you are welcome to come in, but depending on when you arrive there may not be a seat available. The last thing I want is for someone to drive all the way out only to miss the game, so please be on time! =) *** **What to Expect & General Tips** **Game Length** — Most games take anywhere between 2 and 3 hours, including the teach, which means you will typically only play one game per evening. Occasionally a shorter game wraps up early and that group may play a second, but that is more the exception than the rule. **Game Difficulty** — This group primarily plays medium to complex games, and while new players are always welcome — the host will teach you at the table! — it's worth knowing what to expect before you come. If you are looking to play games like Scrabble, Monopoly, Uno, or party games, this is probably not the right event for you. In three years I have seen only two party games played and zero classic board games. **Update Your Status** — Please be considerate of others who would like to attend but may be held back by space constraints. If you can no longer make it, update your status as soon as possible so others can attend — even if there is no waitlist. This also helps me plan seating and choose games appropriate for the number of players. *** In between sessions, join the conversation on our Discord, where we chat about games, minis, and other game-related topics! Discord invite: [https://discord.gg/JyprPCvmMj](https://discord.gg/JyprPCvmMj)

Sellkirk paddles will be available for all who attend to try and hopefully learn the game. if you’re interested, you can buy one. This is INSTRUCTION PICKLEBALL for Beginners. Note $5 fee for wear and tear on paddles and replacement of pickle balls. Reminder this is for beginners maybe you’ve taken one or two of the classes before. The idea is to give others a chance to learn the game. 
We can begin by just hitting the ball around (Dinking and Serving) until you’re comfortable and then start the introduction to Pickle Ball. Please study the rules of Pickleball. There will be a quiz.  https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/fitness/a41889595/pickleball-rules/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_md_dsa_prog_org_us_a41889595&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADA2MEqo78AlxWw25v72aAqTYZy2o&gclid=CjwKCAiAtYy9BhBcEiwANWQQLzWcA4GRJ5dNAtBpRG0nMJqvUlr67XGuB8hSrEaEZmWioeNiorM6jRoC0BkQAvD_BwE If I am late take the court that has the blue pickle ball lines on it to the far entrance to the court.
There is a Porta Johns at this location Bring a baseball cap, sunglasses and water

This is for “INTERMEDIATE and ADVANCED PLAYERS””.
We can begin by just hitting the ball around (Dinking and Serving) until you’re comfortable and then start play Pickle Ball. Must have your own Pickleball paddle unless you contact me. If I happen to not be there, take the court that has the blue pickle ball lines on it to the far entrance to the court.
There is a Porta Johns at this location Baseball cap sunglasses and water would be helpful for yourself.

Welcome to the first Park Club of 2026! Drake Khazal has recommended Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve in Loudon County, saying "It's not a very demanding hike because it's mostly flat land, so it's a nice leisurely stroll. Also lots of water and open meadow, when I was there lots of wild flowers but since we'll be heading there in mid march and it'll still be a bit cold they may only just be starting to pop up out of the soil. Also it's a nature preserve so lots of wildlife we may not get a chance to see elsewhere in NoVa, assorted birds and even some larger fauna (if we're lucky but they're very shy)" As in the past, we'll be meeting up and taking a look around, walking a trail, and enjoying nature and conversation. A nice chill activity for anyone to join whether you are a member of CCAN, a passionate environmentalist, or simply a person who loves nature. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

🌱 Origami Seed Pot Workshop Saturday, April 11 10:00 AM Many gardeners start seedlings in small plastic containers that eventually get thrown away. In this workshop we’ll learn a simple and practical alternative: folding biodegradable planting pots from ordinary paper grocery bags. Using a traditional origami-style fold, we’ll turn brown grocery bags into sturdy seed-starting pots that can go directly into the soil when it’s time to transplant. The folded shape holds soil surprisingly well and breaks down naturally in the garden. This technique is simple, practical, and easy to repeat at home throughout the growing season. If you're curious about the folding method ahead of time, you can watch a short demonstration here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dlGQP81yfo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dlGQP81yfo) During the gathering we’ll: • Learn the folding method step-by-step • Make several planting pots together • Talk about seed starting and spring gardening • Share ideas for reducing waste in the garden After the workshop, those who’d like can continue the conversation over a casual lunch nearby. If you have **brown paper grocery bags**, please bring a few if you can. If not, no worries—I’ll have extra bags available for anyone who needs them. — 🥾 Difficulty — Very easy. No experience with gardening or origami required. — 💲 Cost — Free. — 📍 Location — I’d love suggestions from members. If you know an outdoor space with a table that would work well for this workshop, please recommend it. If no better suggestion emerges, we will default to the **gazebo at Germantown Square Urban Park**, which provides a simple covered outdoor space for the workshop. — 📝 Registration — Please RSVP on Meetup so we know how many people to expect. — 🎒 What to Bring — • Brown paper grocery bags (if you have extras) • Scissors • Garden curiosity • Optional: seeds you may want to start this spring — 🚗 Carpooling — Once the location is confirmed, we can coordinate optional carpooling through the Meetup event page.

Looking for a fun, screen-free way to spend your Sunday afternoon? Join us every other week at the Community Center for a few hours of friendly competition and laughter. Feel free to bring your own treasured game or borrow one from our shelves. It’s the ultimate low-pressure way for families to connect. Note: This is not a drop-off event. Please ensure children have a parent or guardian joining in on the fun.

Calling all foodies and gardening enthusiasts! Join us for an exclusive **Sip and Learn** event where you'll get to taste fresh, live herbs while learning how to grow your own food indoors year-round. 🌱 **Clift** will demonstrate how easy it is to grow more than **75 pounds of food** every year using **LED grow lights**—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, this event will show you how you can maximize small areas to grow delicious, pesticide-free produce. ### **What to Expect**: * **Live Herb Tasting**: Sample fresh herbs like basil, mint, and thyme, and discover their flavorful uses in your favorite dishes or drinks. * **Grow 75+ Pounds of Food**: Learn how you can grow your own fresh food year-round indoors with minimal setup. * **Indoor Gardening Benefits**: From saving on grocery bills to having pesticide-free herbs and vegetables at your fingertips, we’ll cover the perks of indoor gardening. ### **Why Attend?** * **Perfect for small spaces**—no backyard needed! * Gain expert tips on indoor gardening and sustainable food production. * A fun, engaging way to explore the benefits of fresh herbs and veggies for your meals. * Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about urban farming and sustainability. **How to Join**: Simply RSVP here to secure your spot! Bring your favorite drink or meal to pair with our live herbs. 🌿 Don’t miss out on this chance to sip, taste, and learn! Visit **[indoorgardenmarket.com](https://iwantagreenthumb.com)** to learn more, and RSVP now for a fun afternoon of herbs, learning, and indoor gardening! Thank you, Clift --- Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com

It's been a long time since we've seen Ken's Garage Band! Join us as we party to one of the biggest hits from our fundraiser in November! It's going to be a high energy night listening to all the best music ❤️🎶🕺💃 P.S. Our friend Tamera is the drummer 😃

**Regular Garden admission and memberships apply.** | Ages 5 & under | Free | | -------------- | ---- | | Age 6 - 17 | $5.00 | | Age 18 - 59 | $9.00 | | Age 60 and over | $5.00 | **We will meet at the visitor center.** **Bring Water, a tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards** **There is no specific route in this park. Folks are free to wander around the trails in the park at their own pace.** **Check out Rob Trek's video from May 16, 2021: [https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y](https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y)** **For lunch, after the field trip around 12:00 PM, we will head to The Virginian Restaurant, 169 Glyndon St SE, Vienna, VA 22180** Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Beauty, conservation, education, and discovery flourish throughout the year at this 95-acre complex of large ornamental display gardens and unique native plant collections. Walking trails, lakes, more than twenty varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms, and foliage create a sanctuary of beauty and nature. https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/ By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

⚡ **What’s Your Go-To Dish?** The one you make when you don’t want to experiment. The one that always works. The one you trust. Bring that. Join us for a relaxed, small-group potluck lunch held in our "Startup Garage" — a spacious, bright, comfortable living-room style space inside a single-family home. Think couches, real food, and meaningful conversation — not an actual garage 😊 Many of us have a go-to move — in the kitchen and in life. If you’d like, share why it’s yours. Funny, practical, meaningful — your call. 🕐 1:00–4:00 PM (arrive between 1:00–1:30 PM) **What to Bring** 1. A dish (homemade or store-bought — no pressure) 2. A short explanation behind it (optional) **Who Typically Attends** • Professionals in their 30s–40s–50s • Entrepreneurs and builders • Divorced or separated individuals navigating what’s next • People who prefer substance over surface level talk **What You’ll Experience** • Smart, grounded adults • Humor, laughter and perspective • Conversation that flows naturally • A relaxed, low-key Sunday atmosphere No spotlight. No forced sharing. Just solid food and solid company. This is a free community event designed to strengthen real connection within the Midlife Reinvention community. Space is intentionally capped to keep it comfortable. **Full address (Ashburn - 20147) and parking details are emailed 2–3 days before the event.** 🌐 Learn more about the community: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)