Botany
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Botany Events Today
Join in-person Botany events happening right now
Photograph Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens July 4th
In previous years, the rangers said they try to get to the park and open the gate by 7:45 AM.
From the website:
[https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm)
Waterlilies are bountiful all over the park! Our volunteers moved the tropical lilies from the hothouses to the display ponds, and they are vibrant. Bird enthusiasts have been enjoying watching the 3 young fledgling red-shouldered hawks, nesting orchard orioles, and kingbirds. Turtles have been laying eggs, and tadpoles and frogs are abundant in the ponds.
Every year, we visit Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on July 4th. The lotus flowers start blooming in early June and will be plentiful by the end of the month. The best time to visit is in the morning, as the temperatures are cooler and the flowers close up in the heat of the day, usually around 1:30 pm.
I know it is outside of the Virginia Beltway, but it is not far. It is a very unique place in Washington, DC. I will be there in my grey pickup and rain or shine (hopefully shine)!
Bring:
Tripod
Comfortable shoes
Water
Fully charged batteries
Empty memory cards
Rain poncho and plastic bags for the camera and lens in case of rain.
Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos.
Park Facts
Entrance Fee: Free
Allow Dogs with lease: No
Bathroom: Restroom in the Visitor Center
Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave, NE, Washington D.C. 20019
Lat, Long: 38.913003, -76.940142 - Parking Lot
Plus Code: W375+6W Washington, District of Columbia
Website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm
I generally schedule this meetup on the Fourth of July, as I would have the day off. They are open on July 4th, but one year we waited until 9:00 AM until a ranger showed up to unlock the gate, and it wasn’t a holiday. I also want to mention security, as in the past, a photographer in my group was at the gardens and saw someone’s car being broken into in the parking lot.
From the parking lot, walk towards the gardens down the path. I usually stay to the left and head into the lotus fields. Please be careful, as there are just dirt paths between the fields, and if there has been a lot of rain, there can be ruts, and I almost twisted my ankle.
You actually need a fairly long lens, as the lotus flowers are tall and can be some distance away. A wide angle is only good for some overall shots, and a good-sized macro works as well. Another thing folks do not realize is that the flowers do bloom into September, but have many full blooms. This is one park where you do not have to worry about mosquitoes, as they are eaten by pond beetles, dragonflies, and damselfly larvae, and also by frogs and birds.
There is a boardwalk at the back of the flower fields that goes out to a marsh area. I have seen many types of birds and dragonflies in that area. Being there makes it hard to believe that you are in Washington, DC.
On the way out, allow some time to check out the small ponds with different lotus and lilies that also attract frogs and dragonflies.
Why you will not see any mosquitoes in the park:
https://www.nps.gov/keaq/learn/nature/insects.htm
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.
Volunteer at the Arlington Civitans Garage Sale - Saturday Cleanup
Volunteers are needed at the Community Garage Sale organized by the Arlington Civitans! **This event is both a volunteer opportunity and an important fundraiser for the Jaycees** \- the Civitans pay our organization for every volunteer hour\! Volunteers assist in tear\-down and clean\-up after the sale ends\, starting at 1pm \(volunteers are also needed for setup on Friday night \- see separate Meetup event\)\. If you can't stay the whole time\, that's OK\! Any time you can contribute is appreciated\. This event is held on the first Saturday of each month between April and November\.
As a bonus, if you volunteer for at least 5 hours at the Civitans garage sales, you are eligible for a **FREE Arlington Jaycees Annual Membership**!
The Garage Sale is held in the Parking Garage located behind Washington & Liberty High School. It is a **10 minute walk from the Ballston-MU metro station**. **Parking** is available on level A of the garage or on North 15th Street, between Quincy and Stafford Streets, and along Quincy Street. **Walk into the parking garage and proceed to the Level B** **concession stand** \-\- ask for Martin\, Cathy\, or Paul\. Make sure to sign in\. Please wear sturdy \(closed toe\) shoes\, and bring work gloves if you have them\. Also dress for the weather as this event takes place rain or shine\.
Proceeds from the monthly garage sale (from sales at the concession stand and vendor fees) benefit the Arlington Civitans, a non-profit organization committed to helping people with developmental disabilities. For more information, visit the [Arlington Civitans](http://civitan.org/) website.
\*\*You must be between 21 and 40 years old to qualify for membership in the Arlington Jaycees, but volunteers of all ages are welcome.
***The Arlington Jaycees*** *(part of Junior Chamber International) is the premier nonprofit in Arlington that provides young people (ages 21-40) with opportunities for personal & professional growth, business networking, community involvement and social engagement in the Arlington Community and worldwide. Our mission is **leadership development through community service**. Check out our website [www.arljaycees.org](https://arljaycees.org/) to learn more and to become a member of this amazing organization!*
Mindful Hiking Challenge (July-October)
**🪷**\*\* Cost:\*\* This challenge has a fee. Multiple price options are available.
To participate in this challenge, use this link: [Mindful Hiking Challenge Registration](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-mindful-hiking-challenge-nourish-yourself-nurture-community)
📅 Our challenge runs from July through October
✨ **Description:** What if a walk in nature could nourish your well-being while helping others experience the healing power of the outdoors?
Join Imagine Well Being's Mindful Hiking Challenge and discover how simple acts of presence can create meaningful change- for yourself and for your community.
You'll explore beautiful landscapes, engage in mindfulness practices, and reconnect with the natural world in ways that inspire curiosity, gratitude, and wonder. Whether you hike a mountain trail, wander through a historic landscape, or pause beside a quiet stream, each step becomes an invitation to slow down, notice more deeply, and remember your connection to the living world around you.
To guide your journey, the challenge invites you to explore three distinct types of landscapes:
* **Historic Sites:** *Where we listen to the stories of the land.*
* **National Scenic Trails:** *Where the path guides us back to ourselves.*
* **National Parks:** *Where awe expands our perspective.*
⚙️ **How it Works**
You choose how, when, and where you explore. Complete the challenge at your own pace, and enrich your journey by joining our hosted, in-person community events—from hikes and bike rides to forest bathing, sound baths, and mindful movement.
📖 Participants receive a downloadable mindful hiking guide for each landscape, featuring sensory and creative invitations to explore with curiosity, deepen awareness, and discover what the land has to share.
💖 **The Impact:** A Practice of Reciprocity
Just like a healthy forest relies on an unseen network of roots to thrive, this challenge creates a beautiful cycle of mutual care between you and your community.
🌿 **Nourish Yourself**
Modern life floods us with screens, noise, and constant "doing," leaving us disconnected or overwhelmed. Spending intentional, mindful time in nature lowers stress, boosts immune health, and restores physical energy. Consider this challenge your personal sanctuary—a sacred space to quiet an overactive mind and return to your truest self.
**🤝 Nurture Community**
While you are out on the trail restoring your own spirit, your registration fee and donations ripple outward. Your generosity supports the work of Imagine Well Being, including:
* **Accessible Nature Programs:** Keeping our holistic nature experiences affordable and welcoming to everyone.
* **Community Helper Workshops:** Providing Wellness-in-Nature and stress-relief sessions for local library staff and other community workers.
* **Therapeutic Outreach:** Bringing the healing power of forest therapy directly to residents in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, as well as adults with developmental disabilities.
**🌐**\*\* Newsletter:\*\* [Sign up Today for Imagine Well Being's latest news, upcoming events, and retreats!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter)
**⭐️ Liability Release:**
With my RSVP, I hereby confirm that I am physically able to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all events, gatherings, and retreats are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities.
I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs.
**I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**
Curanderismo Womb Healing Ceremony with Cacao
### **What generational trauma are you storing in your uterus? Do you find yourself repeating the same story of your mother's or grandmother's life? If the answer is yes, then this ceremony may help you break generational trauma passed down to you by previous generations.**
### **The Womb holds ancestral memories from past generations, and it can store trauma and imbalances affecting your everyday life. A balanced womb promotes regular menstruation cycles, fertility and emotional healing. During this ceremony we will drink sacred cacao and connect with our sacred uterus. Womb healing ceremonies are exclusive for women only , for all other ceremonies please check our schedule.**
### **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:**
-Activation of your womb promoting deep healing of emotional wounds, grief and traumas stored in your womb
-Ancestral Healing and connection to your ancestors
-Connect with your feminine energy and intuition
-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**
###
### **In this Curanderismo Cacao Ceremony with Sacred Cacao 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 facilitate Cacao Ceremonies in the most respectful way , honoring the spirit of Cacao and Los Abuelos de la tradicion (The Elders of the curanderismo tradition and guardians of the sacred cacao).\*\*\*No photography, video recording, or recording of any kind is permited during the ceremony without prior written and aproved authorization. No part of this ceremony or its entirety may be replicated or claimed as your own without legal writen concent from Jenny, Curanderas Heart, and her legal team. Failure to comply will result in legal action by Curanderas Heart legal team. Be respecful of this tradition and all the elders involved in making it possible to preserve this tradition and its sacred ways\*\*\*.**
### **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: Saturdays**
### **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\*\*\*\***
Sara’s Going Away Party
**Sara’s moving away 😭😭 But we’re having a party to say goodbye!! It’s at Max’s house. Either use the Ring doorbell or come on in (please close the door behind you so the kitten doesn’t escape). Maybe bring some snacks? That’d be nice. We’re gonna play games and sing karaoke. Bye bye Sara 💜**
VSDC Biking: DC - Bethesda loop
Please join us for Bike Ride looping around DC and Bethesda area.
We will meet new Pierce Mill in Rock Creek park and ride north on Beach Drive. This is a very scenic ride on the road which is mostly closed to vehicular traffic. After crossing over to Maryland, we might switch riding on the Rock Creek Trail if the traffic is heavy on Beach Drive. We will exit the Rock Creek park near Cedar Ln, heading South next to NIH towards Bethesda Downtown. Most of the hard part of the ride should be done by now. In Bethesda we will have a break at Rooted3.
After the break we will take the Capital Crescent trail towards Georgetown. This is downhill so it will be a breeze. In Georgetown we will catch the Rock Creek park trail (again!) to go North towards our starting point.
Meeting point: [Pierce Barn/Mill at Rock Creek Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uVWXSL47Ki8AcY7R9)
Meeting time: 7:45am
Route: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yj6rEaBgi24XsV9E7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yj6rEaBgi24XsV9E7)
Length: 24 miles
Difficulty level: moderate/strenuous
Elevation change: 410 ft up and 413 ft down
Bike time: \~2.5 hours at moderate pace (\~10 mph)
Total time: \~4 hours (including stops).
Biking surface: paved
Route type: mostly paved trails, some roads
Breaks: multiple possible - we can decide en route:
[Rooted 3 at Bethesda](https://www.rooted3.com/)
[South Block at Georgetown](https://www.southblock.com/)
**Metro Accessibility**: Pierce Mill at Rockville park is easily accessible via the Cleveland Park or Van Ness metro stations on Red line
Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page.
*For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).*
*Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*
\*When you sign up to join, you automatically acknowledge
[VSDC Activity Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/).
*Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below*
RULES
* Pets are not allowed
* Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event.
* Practice safe biking habits including:
* Wearing a bike helmet
* Keeping a safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes)
* Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity
By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/).
**VSDC: More Than A Meetup**
We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits?
With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/).
**VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**
Botany Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Pro-Animal Meetup
Please be sure to RSVP here! [https://stampede.proanimal.org/events](https://stampede.proanimal.org/events)
This is our one year PAMiversary and the last day to turn in signatures for Initiative 86.
Today will be a celebration that marks one year of community, advocacy, compassion, and standing together in the fight for animal rights. Bring your favorite vegan dish and your appetite.
In the face of so much cruelty to animals, it is hard to take a step back and think of the impact we have had. From major fashion conglomerates dropping fur, to getting a bill to remove foie gras from our city on the ballot, and to getting major grocery chains to get birds out of cages, we have made a massive impact on the world. Today is the day we celebrate all of the work we have done. And look forward to what's next.
Today is also the last day to turn in signatures for initiative 86. Please bring all sheets you have left. After PAM, we could also use some help numbering the sheets and getting them ready to turn in to the Board of Elections. We will be turning them in on Monday.
Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness!
We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set.
Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :)
Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.
Breathe, Flow, Connect — Yoga at the Netherlands Carillon
Flow Beneath the Bells: Traditional Yoga at the Netherlands Carillon
Cost: Free
Level: Beginner Friendly
Take a break from the noise and join us for a refreshing hour of yoga in one of Arlington’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.
Whether you’ve been practicing for years or can’t touch your toes without negotiating first, you’re welcome here. This class is designed for beginners, but experienced practitioners will also enjoy the flow.
During this session we’ll:
• Learn foundational yoga poses
• Explore simple breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve focus
• Build strength, balance, and flexibility
• Stretch out tight muscles from work, running, cycling, or life in general
• Spend an hour moving, breathing, and reconnecting with ourselves
No pressure. No competition. No yoga experience required.
What to Bring
• A yoga mat or large towel
• Water
• Comfortable clothes you can move in
• An open mind
A Few Quick Notes
• Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time.
• Avoid a heavy meal right before class. Light snacks are fine.
• If your plans change, please update your RSVP so someone else can join.
Safety Disclaimer
Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including yoga. Participate at your own pace and listen to your body. Modify or skip any movement that doesn’t feel right for you. By attending this class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being and participate voluntarily.
Sunday Spanish & Portuguese [ON SUNDAY & AT LUCKY BAR - PLEASE READ]
It is irresistible, to enjoy a Spanish and Portuguese convo with appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks.
***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.***
We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly.
Rules to abide :
1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID).
2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well.
3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible.
4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE.
5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion.
6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message.
7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box.
8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com)).
9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group.
10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages.
11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\.
12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\.
13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class.
***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***
Ausarian Tantra Yoga
Ausarian Tantra Yoga is a practice that infuses the spirit and power of enlightenment through synchronizing breath,
movement, meditation, and silent affirmation. Ausarian Tantra Yoga incorporates postures that reflect some of the principles of the Kemetic culture. It is a practice wherein gradual and deliberate movement allows moments for the mind, body, and spirit to connect and express oneness.
**Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered both 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.
Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.
July Book Club Meetup: The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green
Join us for a discussion of ***The Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet* by John Green.**
Here's the summary:
The Anthropocene is the current geological age, in which human activity has profoundly shaped the planet and its biodiversity. In this remarkable symphony of essays adapted and expanded from his ground-breaking, critically acclaimed podcast, John Green reviews different facets of the human-centered planet - from the QWERTY keyboard and Halley's Comet to Penguins of Madagascar - on a five-star scale.
Complex and rich with detail, the Anthropocene's reviews have been praised as 'observations that double as exercises in memoiristic empathy', with over 10 million lifetime downloads. John Green's gift for storytelling shines throughout this artfully curated collection about the shared human experience; it includes beloved essays along with six all-new pieces exclusive to the book.
**Let’s meet at Caboose Commons in Fairfax to enjoy some good discussion and meet new friends.**
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee. At Caffe Amouri in Vienna
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?
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens (informational)
Kenilworth Gardens in known for its beautiful lotus blossoms and waterlilies at this time of year.
For more info about the gardens and rules for visiting see their website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm
For this Meetup, be prepared. The park is unpaved - good, sturdy shoes will be a must. Also, during this time of year, there will be lots of bugs, so bring bug-spray.
The park officially opens at 8am but we have historically gone early and been able to enter upon arrival. Just be aware of heat, humidity and your safety (take water etc).
Botany Events Near You
Connect with your local Botany community
Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
Main Library, Meeting Room 2B
Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen).
Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection.
All backgrounds are welcome.
Azure CBUS July
Want to be a speaker? submit your talk to our Call for Presenters!!!
https://sessionize.com/azure-cbus-2026/
Humanist Program
This presentation will be by Ben Iten, humanist chaplain and HCCO Board Member. Speaking on expressing Humanism values in American democracy.
This meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online. The formal presentation will start at noon.
Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk.
The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event.
Join Zoom Meeting
[https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1)
Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953
Passcode: 760812
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York)
+13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC)
Manic Mondays with Salsamante Dance Academy
Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves.
The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate.
730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves
830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate)
15 for One Class
20 for Both
Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space.
Viva Dance Columbus 2809 Festival Lane Dublin OH 43017
BeComing Circle Initiates
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg
Instructor - Crow, HPS
Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange
RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642.
Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online.
Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only
Please come prepared for ritual.
Blessings ~ Crow



















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