better life

HH @ Franklin Hall — come and go as your schedule allows 🎉. Happy hour specials go til 7pm.

**\*\*\*TO ATTEND THE EVENT, YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS THROUGH OUR WEBSITE \*\*\*** [https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup) Hosted by Pre-Dating Speed Dating, the experts, bringing people together since 2001! Our events have been featured on CNN, CBS, Axios, Miami New Times, TLC's 90 Day Fiance - The Single Life, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, The Wall Street Journal, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more -- but come see for yourself! Join us for a night of fun, flirtation, and possible romance at our singles speed dating event! If you're tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, speed dating is a great way to meet new people in person, in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. **HOW IT WORKS:** We'll introduce you to at least 5, and up to 12 - or more - single women or men. Spend a little time with each one, during a series of 6-minute Pre-Dates. Then tell us who you'd like to speak with again & we'll do the rest! It's the modern, civilized, effective, and fun way to meet other professional-level singles. If you're finished with the games and ineffectiveness of online dating and apps, join us to share a wonderful evening of enjoyable conversation with interesting people... and maybe something magical will happen! **GET TICKETS:** A **Meetup RSVP is not a ticket**, you must purchase on our website. [https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup) Use Code MATCH5 for $5 off! **DOES IT WORK?** Yes! According to the New York Times, at a speed dating event, people like 2-3 out of 10 people they meet. Online daters only match with 1 in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. This is the best way to meet new people, and it works! Just ask the thousands of people that have met at our events and had successful relationships and marriages. **WHAT DOES IT COST?** We put a lot of time and effort into creating the best singles events possible, so we collect a fee for our hard work. Our events are an excellent value at about $3 per introduction. Get your ticket for the best singles event in town. **NOTE FOR NEWCOMERS:** We post our events on various platforms. Our events often sell out, so expect plenty of fellow singles, regardless of the numbers you see here :) So what are you waiting for? Join us for some fun conversation with great new people... and maybe something more! Who will you meet? **GET TICKETS:** [https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup)

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Single Lesson,”** a debunking of myths and misconceptions about singlehood and a look at research and advocacy efforts focused on the unmarried, with Craig Wynne, a professor of English at the University of the District of Columbia and pioneer in the growing field of Singles Studies. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at[ https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson]( https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson) .] All around us are messages that being “coupled up” is the norm. Shows like *The Bachelor*, 90-Day Fiancé, and *Indian Matchmaking* have people rooting and fawning for marriage. Yet, despite its supposed unpopularity, the rate of singlehood is increasing. By 2030, the Pew Research Center has projected, 25 percent of 45- to 54-year-old adults in the United States will never have married. What’s the real picture when it comes to singles? Is a growing share of the population missing out on marital bliss, or are single people on to something? Hear such questions tackled by Professor Craig Wynne, co-editor of *Singular Selves: An Introduction to Singles Studies* and author of *How to be a Happy Bachelor.* Dr. Wynne will discuss how stereotypes of singlehood are perpetuated in the media and how they influence laws, policies, and our daily social interactions in ways that harm not just single people but those who are married, cohabitating, or in a relationship. His talk will explore the concepts of “singlism,” the stereotyping and stigma around people who are not married or otherwise unpartnered; “matrimania,” over-the-top societal obsession with marriage and weddings; and “amatonormativity,” the assumption that a romantic relationship must be prioritized above all other kinds. Finally, Dr. Wynne will discuss the emergence of Singles Studies—a field devoted to granting singlehood validity in an academic context—and look at recent advocacy intended to secure single people equity in a world that still privileges being married or coupled. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Single Lesson,”** a debunking of myths and misconceptions about singlehood and a look at research and advocacy efforts focused on the unmarried, with Craig Wynne, a professor of English at the University of the District of Columbia and pioneer in the growing field of Singles Studies. All around us are messages that being “coupled up” is the norm. Shows like *The Bachelor*, 90-Day Fiancé, and *Indian Matchmaking* have people rooting and fawning for marriage. Yet, despite its supposed unpopularity, the rate of singlehood is increasing. By 2030, the Pew Research Center has projected, 25 percent of 45- to 54-year-old adults in the United States will never have married. What’s the real picture when it comes to singles? Is a growing share of the population missing out on marital bliss, or are single people on to something? Hear such questions tackled by Professor Craig Wynne, co-editor of *Singular Selves: An Introduction to Singles Studies* and author of *How to be a Happy Bachelor.* Dr. Wynne will discuss how stereotypes of singlehood are perpetuated in the media and how they influence laws, policies, and our daily social interactions in ways that harm not just single people but those who are married, cohabitating, or in a relationship. His talk will explore the concepts of “singlism,” the stereotyping and stigma around people who are not married or otherwise unpartnered; “matrimania,” over-the-top societal obsession with marriage and weddings; and “amatonormativity,” the assumption that a romantic relationship must be prioritized above all other kinds. Finally, Dr. Wynne will discuss the emergence of Singles Studies—a field devoted to granting singlehood validity in an academic context—and look at recent advocacy intended to secure single people equity in a world that still privileges being married or coupled. (Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Register here: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson

Mindful movement and flow: This class is a slower moving, strengthening and balance building practice based on mindfulness. We will bring our intentions to the awareness of our bodies and our breath in movement or in longer held poses. We will explore different breathing techniques that help clear out physical, emotional or mental energies allowing a sense of peace within. The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

**Masterpieces in Real Life – DC Art Brunch Series** Inspired by this [Deconstructing.AI article](https://deconstructing.ai/blog-1/f/where-america-keeps-its-masterpieces), this series visits the most important artworks and objects in Washington in small, relaxed Sunday outings. We’ll look closely at several works, share the human stories behind them, and then continue the conversation over brunch nearby. Not a formal tour—just curious people learning to see together. I'll share a little background on the art and venue pairing for each outing. Here's the proposed itinerary for our first tour at the National Gallery of Art and the current (free) exhibitions while we are there. [A Measured Walk Through the National Gallery of Art](https://deconstructing.ai/blog-1/f/a-measured-walk-through-the-national-gallery-of-art) SCHEDULE & PAIRINGS **1) Leonardo & Vermeer – The Quiet Room** **Sunday, 12:30–3:30** **Art:** • Leonardo – *Ginevra de’ Benci* • Vermeer – *Woman Holding a Balance* • Bonus: Monet *Japanese Footbridge* **Meet:** National Gallery West Building, Constitution Ave entrance **Brunch after (3 min walk):** **The Smith – Penn Quarter** – bright, easy tables, good for groups **Masterpieces in Real Life #1 – Leonardo & Vermeer** We’ll begin where Washington quietly keeps two of the most intimate paintings in the world. Leonardo da Vinci’s *Ginevra de’ Benci* is the only Leonardo in the Americas, yet it behaves nothing like a celebrity. The panel is small, moody, and slightly wounded—its lower edge trimmed centuries ago, taking Ginevra’s hands with it. What remains is a face suspended between confidence and doubt, framed by juniper leaves that pun on her name. Nearby, Vermeer’s *Woman Holding a Balance* performs a different kind of magic: a domestic scene so still you can almost hear the dust settling. The scales may hold pearls or nothing at all; scholars still argue, which is part of the pleasure. The National Gallery’s West Building is the perfect stage for this slow kind of looking—marble floors that encourage quiet footsteps and skylit rooms that make even hurried visitors lower their voices. We’ll wander from Leonardo to Vermeer and then to Monet’s luminous bridge, tracing how artists turned light into a language. No lectures, no exams—just stories about missing hands, hidden pigments, and the surprising ways these works ended up in Washington instead of Florence or Delft. After the gallery, we’ll walk a few minutes to **The Smith** in Penn Quarter, a bright brasserie that feels like the cheerful cousin of the museum: high ceilings, good bread, and tables made for lingering conversations. Over brunch we’ll compare first impressions—Did Vermeer feel calm or unsettling? Is Leonardo’s Ginevra shy or simply unimpressed with us?—and let the art continue to do what it does best: start arguments among friends. *** \*\*\*\*\* Coming Up Next\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* ### 2) Van Gogh / Degas / Rodin – Bodies & Minds **Sunday, 12:30–3:30** **Art:** • Van Gogh *Self-Portrait* • Degas *Little Dancer* • Rodin *The Thinker* **Lunch (4 min walk):** **Oyamel** – lively but not loud, great sharing plates *** ### 3) America in Objects **Sunday, 12:00–3:00** **Art & Objects:** • Star-Spangled Banner • Greensboro Lunch Counter • Julia Child’s Kitchen • Ruby Slippers **Lunch (2 min walk):** **Carmine’s Penn Quarter** – easy large tables *** ### 4) Flight & Moon – Fragile Futures **Sunday, 12:30–3:00** **Art/Engineering:** • Apollo 11 Columbia • Wright Flyer **Lunch (5 min walk):** **Cafe Riggs** – calm, elegant, conversation-friendly *** ### 5) Memory in Stone – Evening Light Edition **Sunday, 1:00–3:30** **Art:** • Lincoln Memorial • Vietnam Memorial **Lunch (before walk – 12:00):** **Tonic at Quigley’s** – reliable, close to Mall *** ### 6) The Hope Diamond & the Stories We Invent **Sunday, 12:30–3:00** **Art:** • Hope Diamond • Geology hall **Lunch (5 min walk):** **Old Ebbitt Grill** – classic DC, easy meet point *** ## FLOW OF EACH EVENT **12:30** – Meet outside museum **12:35–2:00** – Slow look at 2–3 works **2:00** – Walk together to lunch **2:10–3:30** – Brunch/lunch + conversation

Discover the power of your breath to manage your mind and experience instant peace & calm. Join a 60-minute free Workshop and get a glimpse of the Sudarshan KriyaTM- The breathing technique that is revolutionizing the lives of millions. What you’ll discover at ‘Beyond Breath’ ✔ A taste of the Sudarshan KriyaTM, a breathing technique taught in the Happiness Program ✔ An instant energy booster that awakens & relaxes your mind - Take it home and practice daily! ✔ The peace & calm of a unique guided meditation ✔ Secret keys to manage your mind ✔ The power of surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people. You can use your breath to master your thoughts and emotions - the key to managing the quality of your day. The Happiness Program At the end of this workshop you may enroll into the Happiness Program (3 days, 3 hours each day) to learn the Sudarshan KriyaTM, a science-backed, rhythmic breathing technique through which you can: Tap into a reservoir of energy and use it as you please! Relieve deep-rooted stresses and anxieties Uplevel your productivity Overcome emotional blocks, move on from past events and shed limiting beliefs Heal your body & gain power over your mind Experience the true state of meditation Learn more about the Happiness Program & the Sudarshan KriyaTM in our introductory workshop 'Secrets to Meditation'. Instagram: artoflivingDMV aolf.live/secretstomeditation

**Hopi Eleventh Hour Prophecy** The Hopi Eleventh Hour Prophecy speaks of a critical moment in humanity’s story—a time of choice, responsibility, and renewal. In this gathering, we’ll explore the meaning of the prophecy as it’s commonly shared today, its cultural and spiritual context, and the questions it raises about modern life, environmental stewardship, and collective values. This is a **discussion-based meetup**, not a lecture. Participants are encouraged to listen deeply, share perspectives, and reflect together. Whether you approach the prophecy from a spiritual, symbolic, historical, or personal lens, you’re welcome here. **All are welcome.**

Higher Grounds – Del Ray is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Del Ray who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions** 1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? 2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? 3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out? 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

**\*\*\*TO ATTEND THE EVENT, YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS THROUGH OUR WEBSITE \*\*\*** [https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup) Hosted by Pre-Dating Speed Dating, the experts, bringing people together since 2001! Our events have been featured on CNN, CBS, Axios, Miami New Times, TLC's 90 Day Fiance - The Single Life, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, The Wall Street Journal, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more -- but come see for yourself! Join us for a night of fun, flirtation, and possible romance at our singles speed dating event! If you're tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, speed dating is a great way to meet new people in person, in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. **HOW IT WORKS:** We'll introduce you to at least 5, and up to 12 - or more - single women or men. Spend a little time with each one, during a series of 6-minute Pre-Dates. Then tell us who you'd like to speak with again & we'll do the rest! It's the modern, civilized, effective, and fun way to meet other professional-level singles. If you're finished with the games and ineffectiveness of online dating and apps, join us to share a wonderful evening of enjoyable conversation with interesting people... and maybe something magical will happen! **GET TICKETS:** A **Meetup RSVP is not a ticket**, you must purchase on our website. [https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup) Use Code MATCH5 for $5 off! **DOES IT WORK?** Yes! According to the New York Times, at a speed dating event, people like 2-3 out of 10 people they meet. Online daters only match with 1 in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. This is the best way to meet new people, and it works! Just ask the thousands of people that have met at our events and had successful relationships and marriages. **WHAT DOES IT COST?** We put a lot of time and effort into creating the best singles events possible, so we collect a fee for our hard work. Our events are an excellent value at about $3 per introduction. Get your ticket for the best singles event in town. **NOTE FOR NEWCOMERS:** We post our events on various platforms. Our events often sell out, so expect plenty of fellow singles, regardless of the numbers you see here :) So what are you waiting for? Join us for some fun conversation with great new people... and maybe something more! Who will you meet? **GET TICKETS:** [https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/baltimore-speed-dating/?utm_source=Meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=Meetup)

If you’re a dad over 35, you probably feel it: * Your energy isn’t what it used to be. * Work stress drains you before you even get home. * The weight has crept on around the middle. * Your kids still have endless energy, but keeping up with them feels harder every year. And deep down, you know your family looks to you as the example. If you’re running on empty, short on patience, and out of shape, that’s the standard you set at home. The **D.A.D.S. Program (Dads Achieving Discipline & Strength)** was built for men like you. Ordinary guys with jobs, families, and full schedules who want to: * **Reclaim strength** so you feel capable, athletic, and confident again. * **Boost energy** so you’re sharp at work and fully present with your family. * **Drop the aches, stiffness, and sluggishness** that make you feel older than you are. * **Find balance and accountability** by training alongside other dads in the same fight. * **Crush male loneliness** by connecting with men who “get it” and have your back. Here’s the best part: You don’t need to be a seasoned gym rat. This is designed for **beginner to intermediate exercisers**—dads who may have been out of the gym for years or have never had a structured program, but know it’s time to get serious. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, we’re hosting **Meet-Up Workouts from 6:00–6:45 AM.** No strings attached. Just one powerful hour that could be the turning point in your health, energy, and family life. There are only **8 spots available**, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. Location: Revolutionary Fitness - 215 N. Payne St., Alexandria, Va 22314 Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 6:00–6:45 AM To claim your spot, call/text 703-783-2316 or email sign up directly at [https://go.thefitrevolution.com/dads](https://go.thefitrevolution.com/dads) Stop putting yourself last. Take this hour, and give your family the stronger, sharper, healthier version of you.

**A relaxed, good-vibe Valentine’s Day afternoon for adults who don’t want the pressure, awkwardness, or heaviness today.** Not a dating event. Not a support group. Just a warm room, good people, and simple **conversation games that make it easy to meet others who are also starting fresh.** If Valentine’s Day feels weird, quiet, or emotionally loaded this year, spend it in a space where you can actually laugh, feel lighter, and connect with grounded adults who get it. *** **🔍 What You’ll Experience** • Simple partner rotations (guided and easy) • Light, feel-good Valentine’s prompts **• Fun conversation games (not cheesy, not romantic)** • A mix of divorced and separated adults in similar life chapters • A comfortable, pressure-free room • Good energy without oversharing or awkward silence **Everything is structured. You show up — the flow does the rest.** *** **💼 Who It’s For** • Divorced adults • Separated adults • People navigating midlife transitions • Anyone starting fresh and not wanting to spend Feb 14 alone Most attendees are in their **late 30s to mid 50s** — grounded, normal people who want something better to do today than sit at home replaying the past. This is a chance to be around others in similar seasons without labels, pressure, or expectations. *** **✅ Location, Cost & Time** 📍 **Rented facility:** **Ashburn (zip 20147)** — exact address shared after RSVP 🕒 **2:00 PM – 4:00 PM** 💵 **$15 per person —** feel free to bring a guest (just have them RSVP separately). ☕ **Coffee + light snacks provided** *** **🎯 The Vibe** Think: **calm, warm, easy, friendly, real.** Not romantic. Not forced. Just a space where people talk, laugh, and feel human again on a day that can feel heavy. **And if a natural connection happens — great.** If not, you still walk away lighter than you came. **✅ Space is limited to keep the room comfortable and conversational.** RSVP if you’d like to join this small-group Valentine’s gathering. 🌐 Explore more: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)

**The Arts of Life with Nancy Burbridge - Discover Yourself through art!** **You're Invited to 'Arts of Life'** A meditative journey through art with local artist Nancy Burbridge Join us every third Friday of the month at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum, Virginia from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM for creativity, relaxation, and self-discovery. In this interactive session, you will learn how to draw, paint, and explore the beauty within, cultivating the best version of yourself in a serene and supportive environment. Come experience the magic of art and meditation as tools for self-expression and inner growth. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore! We can't wait to see you there! Fri., Feb. 20th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum- Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl., Suite 200, Chantilly, VA, 20151. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/m6Ncn](https://shorturl.at/m6Ncn)

Join our partners Watermark Woods Native Plants, Loudoun County Public Library (LCPL), and Birch Tree Bookstore for the Read! Plant! Grow! Book Club, which focuses on native plants, sponsored by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and LCPL. At this meeting we’ll discuss the book Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. Both memoir and journalistic investigation, this book explores how the Kingsolver family took on a new challenge: to spend a year on a locally -produced diet, paying close attention to the provenance of all they consume. Concerned about the environmental, social, and physical costs of American food culture, they hoped to recover what Kingsolver considers our nation’’s lost appreciation for farms and the natural processes of food production. You can either buy the book from Birch Tree Bookstore or contact Allison Forbes at [Allison.forbes@loudoun.gov](mailto:Allison.forbes@loudoun.gov) to borrow a copy of the book at the library. There are two ways to participate: attend the event online via the library website or [sign up to participate in person at Birch Tree Bookstore](https://www.birchtreebookstore.com/event-details/read-plant-grow-2026-02-24-18-30). ***Questions:*** *Contact [info@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:info@loudounwildlife.org)*.

⚡ **Reset your mindset. Meet someone unexpected. Walk away with new clarity.** Join us for a free, small-group event held in our **Startup Garage** — a **spacious, comfortable living-room style space** inside a single-family home. Think couches, coffee, and real conversation — **not an actual garage 😊** 🔁 You’ll be **paired** with different attendees throughout the event for short, energizing rounds — each sparked by a simple **opening line** designed to make you laugh, reflect, and think bigger about what comes next. You won’t just talk about what’s behind you — You’ll begin to **picture what’s ahead** in a way that actually excites you. *** **☕ Coffee and snacks are on me.** Just show up with a curious mind — and a willingness to laugh. We’ll guide you through questions that blend **wisdom and humor** — the kind that help you see your story through a new lens. *** **🔍 What You’ll Experience** • One-on-one rounds to explore purpose, identity, and new possibilities • Light, energizing activities designed to shift your mindset in under 10 minutes • Fresh insights from people you’ve never met — but may never forget • A laid-back, thoughtful space to connect without pressure *** **💼 Who It’s For** • Divorced/Separated or midlife professionals figuring out what’s next • Entrepreneurs, builders, and creatives in a season of reinvention • Men and women who prefer **meaningful conversation** over surface level talk Whether you’re starting over, scaling up, or just ready for something more aligned — this space is for you. *** 📊 *Most attendees are in their 30s, 40s, or 50s — navigating life and growth with curiosity, clarity, and a sense of humor.* 🛋️ **Hosted in a spacious living-room setting** inside a single-family home (Ashburn). Full address shared after RSVP. 🌐 Explore more: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration required at [Birding Algonkian - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-algonkian-feb/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy on a search for birds at Loudoun’s top birding hotspot, ***[Algonkian Regional Park](https://loudounwildlife.org/2016/11/algonkian-park/)*** in eastern Loudoun, for the monthly bird walk. Combining extensive frontage along the Potomac River, rich bottomland forests, wetlands, and extensive grassy areas, this can be a very productive place to bird. Bring binoculars if you have them. We’ll meet at the boat ramp next to the parking lot. ([Boat ramp location.](https://goo.gl/maps/Pz1S69mqSuX1z3FW8)) ***Registration required.*** ***Questions:*** *Contact [bhenson@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:bhenson@loudounwildlife.org).*

This is introductory meditation for people who wants to learn basics of meditation. It's a free event held every week and everyone is welcome to join.

We all go through times when it feels like the ground is being pulled out from under us. What we relied on as steady and solid may change or even appear to vanish. In this era of global disruption, threats to our individual, social, and planetary safety abound, and at times life can feel overwhelming. Not only are loss and separation painful, but even positive changes can cause great stress. Yet life is full of change: birth, death, marriage, divorce; a new relationship; losing or starting a job; beginning a new phase in life or ending one. Change is stressful, even when it is much desired or anticipated—the unknown can feel scary and threatening. In We Were Made for These Times, the extraordinary mindfulness teacher Kaira Jewel Lingo imparts accessible advice on navigating difficult times of transition, drawing on Buddhist teachings on impermanence to help you establish equanimity and resilience. Classroom 1 and via **[Zoom](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88912244670?pwd=jtR4LLF3bM6YkuFgevZXlJtM9tGZL2.1),** Meeting ID 889 1224 4670, Password 488104