Birth Parents

*Aslin opens at 11am! My bad. We will be there at 11! Going to Starbucks across the street until then. Join us for brunch at Aslin! Drop in/out as you are able. Arcade games, kid friendly, good food and soft drinks also available. We will be there with our 2.5 week old, Burns, until at least noon! (Olivia & Corey)

**Notice the new time. We are now 2-5pm.** Bring your own board games! The Center has a few games as well. Newcomers welcome! You don't need to know anything, we will teach you how to play! We do not serve food. Note that you can bring drinks and food, but plan to leave the place tidy. Some of us may also get food together afterwards. Location Info: The [MoCo Pride Center](https://www.mocopridefamily.org/pride-center-home) is close to the **Bethesda Metro Station**. It is on the 2nd floor of the **Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center**. Look for the **blue awning** that says Geste Beer at the cross of Old Georgetown Road -- the front entrance is directly to the left of this awning. The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Service Center has an attached garage, which is accessible on Edgemoor. Go past the Center, then turn right at the stop sign across from the Metro stop. The garage is your first right. Payment is mobile using the ParkMobile app. INHERENT RISK AND LIABILITY: Organizers carefully plan events and check public sources for weather and safety. Common sense dictates that conditions may change and there is inherent risk associated with attendance. Organizers and the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center do not accept any liability for accidents/injuries or any other incidences that may occur in connection with the activities published herein or on linked sites.

Hey Chapter Twoers, let's close out the long weekend with a delicious dinner at Zinnia in Silver Spring. We'll be eating in the main dining room. Look forward to seeing you!

Our regular Sunday meetup at the Shirlington Dog Park -- members start arriving around 10:15 a.m. You'll always find an Aussie to play with. There are 3 entrances, so wander the park -- the dogs will find each other! For puppies, Shirlington has a small dog park within the larger dog park. It's the prefect place for your puppy to gain confidence and socialize with others. There is also plenty of room to run. Just a reminder, the Dog Park is under attack by the Arlington County Board of Commissioners. While early plans to decrease the size of the park by 50% has been tabled, it's important to remind Arlington County how important this park is to dogs and owners. Here are links to the change.org petition and the Facebook page where you can get updates. Shirlington Dog Park Page Petition: https://www.change.org/.../arlington-county-board-save... Arlington County Board: Save the Shirlington Dog Park! We love the Shirlington Dog Park -- it provides… change.org Shirlington Dog Park Page Shirlington Dog Park Page Save the Dog Park Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/groups/696087663906890

### **Childhood is often seen as a carefree time, filled with laughter and joy. Yet, for many, it hides a deeper story of invisible wounds. Those moments of hurt whether from unkind words, unmet needs, or the pressure to perform shape who we become as adults.** ### **During this ceremony we will drink sacred cacao to connect with our inner child in a Curanderismo Ceremony with Cacao and breathwork. Everyone that is respecful with an open heart is welcome to attend this ceremony.** ### **We will respectfully honor the spirit of Cacao in the traditional ways from the Yucatan Peninsula. Ceremony will be lead by Jenny Perez a Curandera and Shamanic Healer who has worked together with her teacher and elders to put this ceremony together. Our intention is to be the most respectful , honoring the spirit of Cacao and Los Abuelos de la tradicion (The Elders of the curanderismo tradition and guardians of the sacred cacao).** ### **What you may experience during this session:** #### \- Deep healing of emotional wounds\, grief and traumas stored in your childhood memories\. #### -Ancestral Healing and connection to your ancestors #### -Ability to create self-love and improve relationships ### **\*\*\*No photography, video/audio recording, or recording of any kind is permited during the ceremony. No part of this ceremony or its entirety may be replicated, distributed or claimed as your own without legal writen concent from Jenny Perez, Curanderas Heart, and her legal team. Failure to comply will result in legal action by Jenny Perez, Curanderas Heart, and their legal team. Be respecful of this tradition and all the elders involved in making it possible to preserve this tradition and its sacred ways.Please work with your own teachers and elders to lead your own ceremony in your own tradition and be respecful of our Curanderismo Tradition.** ### **Start hydrating yourself a day before the Ceremony** ### ### **What to bring:** -Your own water bottle -A Yoga mat (or use one at the studio) -A blanket ( or use one at the studio) -Eye mask (if you have one) -Comfortable clothes to breathe and lay down \- \(optional\) Small offering for the altar like a small piece of fruit or flower\. ### **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a full time Curandera and Shamanic Healer. Her core values are to LIVE IN HARMONY with great spirit, the elements, nature, animals and people. DO NO HARM TO OTHER PEOPLE, PLANTS OR ANIMALS. In the traditional Curanderismo that Jenny practices the foundation is LOVE AND RESPECT to the spirit world, towards animals,plants, people,free will and the elders who guard the curanderismo tradition (Los Abulitos de la tradicion). Curanderas Heart is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA . 5852 Washington Blvd unit 5 Arlington VA at a walkable neighborhood with plenty of food options and street parking. Space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe. Due to limited space pre registration and arriving on time is very important. \*\*IMPORTANT NOTE:\*\* It is possible to experience some side effects such as nausea, sweating, headache, and nervousness with overconsumption of cacao. Please consult with your doctor before consuming ceremonial Cacao. This ceremony is not for people who are pregnant and/or have a heart condition or if taking SSRIs medications. ### **DATE: SUNDAYS** ### **TIME: 1pm-3pm Doors will open 30 minutes early ARRIVE ON TIME TO SET UP YOUR SPOT. PLEASE DON'T KNOCK ON THE DOOR OR DISTURB THE SESSION. ONCE THE DOOR IS LOCK IT MEANS SESSION IS ALREADY IN PROCESS AND IT WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL THE SESSION IS OVER.** ### **Energy Exchange: $88** ### **Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit5 Arlington VA 22205** ### **Info: WWW.CURANDERASHEART.COM** ### **[healing@curanderasheart.com](http://healing@curanderasheart.com**/ "http://healing@curanderasheart.com**/")** ### **703\. 531\.7046 call or text** For more information, contact Jenny at: Website: [www.curanderasheart.com](http://www.curanderasheart.com/ "http://www.curanderasheart.com/") Email: healing@curanderasheart.com Phone:703-531-7046 (call or text) **\*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed, canceled reservations or if you arrive after session has already started\*\*\*\***

\*\* Please go to [Ticket leap](https://events.ticketleap.com/events/greentara/women) to confirm registration \*\*\* In ancient Indian traditions, Chakras are seven spinning energy centers aligned along the spine that connect your physical body to your emotional and spiritual well-being. Each center represents a specific aspect of the human experience, ranging from physical safety to emotional connection to higher intuition and spiritual consciousness. In this series, we are going to explore the meaning of chakras and how to nurture them in our lives. This event is for women only. **January 4** Root chakra: security and foundation **February 15** Sacral chakra: Body and sexuality **March 15** Solar plexus chakra: Power **April 12** Heart chakra: Love **May 24** Throat chakra: Creativity **June 28** Third eye chakra: Knowledge and wisdom **August 2** Crown chakra: Spirituality Authentic Relating Women's Circle is an opportunity for women to be their authentic selves in a supportive and inclusive environment. In our society, women are often expected to take care of others and ignore our own needs. At Women's Circle, we give each other permission to voice our desires, frustrations, joys, and take up space. How do you REALLY feel? What is it that you want? How can we help you get there? Let us support you in finding out. Clarity, confidence, laughter, and friendship are likely outcomes. **What Is Authentic Relating?** Authentic is being real, honest, revealed, and transparent, allowing others to see, hear, and know our inner world. Relating is welcoming the other person's authentic self and weaving their reality and experience with our own. Authenticity and vulnerability are possible in an environment absent of judgement where we are confident that we will be received with openness, empathy, and compassion. Authentic Relating is about intentionally creating a space of equity, belonging, and inclusion. In a world where we often wear a mask, presenting some aspects of ourselves and hiding others in order to be accepted, Authentic Relating invites us to show up as we are. All parts, dimensions, emotions, and aspects that make us human are welcome in this practice. When we share from our authentic selves, we create the opportunity for genuine connections and self-understanding. The result is often moving and therapeutic. ### **Principles and Practices for Authentic Relating** Mindfulness: Slowing down, being present and aware of our inner state and surroundings. Empathy: Being aware of and releasing judgement, employing empathy, curiosity, openness, and recognition of multiple perspectives. Authenticity: Vulnerability, honesty, voicing our truth, self-awareness. Centering the other: No interrupting, giving advice, fixing, or telling your own story. Ask for permission to share your opinion, advice, your own story, and questions. Validating: acknowledging, appreciating, reflecting, empathizing, and presencing. Structure: Timed interactions where people take turns sharing, listening, and reflecting. Everyone has an equal amount of time to talk, listen, and be heard. Equity: Conversation partners are assigned randomly in order to avoid choosing partners based on personal preference. Group conversations typically involve going in order around a circle rather than popcorn style. Prepared questions: Directs conversation towards meaningful topics and deeper reflection. ### **Additional Information** What is Authentic Relating? [2 minute video ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJG7R7Da5xA)/ [15 minute video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJG7R7Da5xA) This event is open to woman identifying individuals. All ages, abilities, and sexual orientations welcome! If you would like to participate, please arrive early so we can start on time. Late arrivals jeopardize the emotional safety and flow of the event. Everyone who attends is invited to join a WhatsApp group to stay in touch and connect with others one-on-one. ### **Testimonials** "WOW OH WOW! It was total magic for me! When I got home last night and looked in the mirror, my face was aglow! At least 20 years were melted away! My face was glowing and beautiful! In the morning, I was happily surprised to see the same glow on my face! Somewhere deep inside of me was touched with healing energy. I had dropped my usual protective guard which I wasn’t even aware was there during the meeting. That you, Clara Fang! See you at the next meeting ☺️" "THANK YOU THANK YOU for hosting this event! It was amazing to connect with brilliant, authentic, and caring women, in person. I could not have asked for a more supportive and healing space. My heart is full. Everyone everywhere needs this, but especially here and now!" "Most social events are like fast food--stimulating but insubstantial. Authentic Relating feels like a carefully crafted and nutritious meal, made with love for you." "Clara is a warm and engaging facilitator who makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable to be their authentic selves." \*\* Please go to [Ticket leap](https://events.ticketleap.com/events/greentara/women) to confirm registration \*\*\*

So many ladies in our community are currently navigating romantic transitions, heartbreaks, endings, disappointments, or emotional resets. Instead of isolating through it, I thought it might be beautiful to create space to process it together. Join us for an evening of good food, music, conversation, and supportive community with women who understand how heavy these seasons can feel. This won’t be a sad “sit in silence” kind of gathering think warmth, honesty, laughter, reflection, and reminding ourselves that endings can also be beginnings. We’ll likely include: ✨ journaling + reflection prompts ✨ symbolic release/letting go activities ✨ comforting food & drinks ✨ music and soft vibes ✨ and maybe even a piñata for dramatic effect because healing can be playful too You do not need to share your story if you don’t want to. Come exactly as you are. Sometimes community is the medicine.

Join our ASL Brunch on Sundays in Greenbelt! All ASL users and learners are welcome. Brunches are alternately held at two restaurants in Greenbelt, both in the same town plaza. ODD WEEKS: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays, we meet at Cedars of Lebanon, 103 Centerway. EVEN WEEKS: 2nd and 4th Sundays, we meet at New Deal Café,113 Centerway. We are the Greenbelt ASL Community, a group of both Deaf and hearing people who hang out, chat about everyday goings on, trade stories, get to know each other better, and of course, enjoy food together. Many members use ASL as their primary language, several are interpreters or other fluent ASL users, while others are ASL learners who wish to improve their skills while making new friends. Before or after brunch, you can visit the farmer's market and small coop grocery store in the plaza. Please RSVP so we can contact you via email if needed. Our group is on Facebook as Greenbelt ASL Community. Some longtime Brunch attendees don't mark their attendance here, so feel free to stop by even if you don't see others who have RSVP'd on Meet-up.

Let's get together to play some competitive coed doubles volleyball. **COST**: FREE **Court Type**: Outdoor grass **Minimum Skill Requirements**: Solid BB (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) Attention: 1. This event is **not always on a first come, first served basis**. [Good doubles partner](https://docs.google.com/document/d/14weEw-P52XKx0P8K2l-ZOFtYU61wmfdkSkopbG5avro/) and those who can bring a net and ball, may get priority over others on the waitlist. 2. Since skill levels are **self-reported**, some attendees may not meet the expected level in reality, so we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this is a **competitive** event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games. 3. Each person must help set up and take down one net, leaving some nets unset for latecomers. **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) 3. [Good doubles partner](https://docs.google.com/document/d/14weEw-P52XKx0P8K2l-ZOFtYU61wmfdkSkopbG5avro/) 4. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.

Optional 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?

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Guys, we need to do this slow. Mishki gets overheated, so we take breaks from time to time, plus there may be other folks who walk slow. To make everyone feel included in the group experience, we walk slow, we wait and are kind. **Meeting Spot**: We gather at the main parking lot close to the park entrance, under the trees. **Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot: 55th Ave & Berwyn Rd,** College Park, MD 20740 Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.