Cooking with Organics and Herbs

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* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → YARRA Ranges** 🌲🏙️ * 📅 **SUN 17 MAY, DAY TRIP ☀️** * 🍃 Where forest whispers meet gentle adventure \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Yarra Ranges Escape — A Refined Nature Experience** Step beyond the city into the quiet elegance of the Yarra Ranges — where forest air is crisp, the pace is unhurried, and every moment feels considered. Hidden among the forest stands the old chimney — a subtle reminder of Victoria’s early timber days — alongside a peaceful water wheel turning slowly beside the stream. This is a place to slow down. We **hike** gently through lush forest trails, listening to birds and flowing water, with time to pause, take in the surroundings, and maybe spot a **koala** resting high in the trees. We then gather for a **European satay meal,** thoughtfully prepared and fully included, enjoyed outdoors in a calm natural setting — simple, refined, and shared. A **guided meditation** invites stillness and clarity, before we ease into a serene **kayaking** experience on a quiet lake, surrounded by soft reflections and open space. ✨ Small group. Premium comfort. Seamless experience. A day designed to feel effortless, balanced, and quietly memorable. 🌿This is more than just a trip. *\* It’s a day of simple pleasures — nature, movement, and good food, all taken slowly. 🌿* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌟 **What’s Included** ✅ Guided 9 km **forest hike** (easy) 🥾 ✅ **Kayaking** on a calm lake (all equipment included) 🛶 ✅ Guided **meditation** in nature 🍃 ✅ **European satay meal (included in the program)** 🍽️ ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee** & tea ☕ ✅ Premium round-trip transport **MERCEDES** minivan 🚐 ✅ Small-group atmosphere & meaningful connections 👥 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Your Itinerary: A Day in the Yarra Ranges** 🕢 **7:30 AM** — Pickup at St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street 🚐 **8:00 AM** — Short stop for **break** & refresh ☕ **9:15 AM** — Arrival + **morning coffee,** tea & snacks (included) 🌿 **9:30 AM** — Forest **Hike** begins (9 km, easy, \~160m elevation) 🍽️ **12:30 PM — European satay meal (included) + Snacks/drinks (inc.)** 🧘 **1:30 PM** — **Meditation** & grounding in nature 🛶 **2:30 PM** — **Kayaking** session (easy & **beginner**-friendly) ☕ **3:30 PM** — Relax by the lake / tea break 🚐 **4:30 PM** — Depart back to Melbourne 🌆 **6:00 PM** — Return to **city,** calm and refreshed 📍 Drop-off: Hamer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** YR 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/](https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*A day in nature is a day well spent** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Namaste, healer. It's time to light up the seventh chakra. It's where higher connection, spiritual awareness, and clear consciousness all come together. And when it's humming, life just flows better. Hence, our Reiki Crown Chakra Healing Night, where we'll do powerful meditations and group healing to strengthen it. The crown chakra is especially important for healers, because it's the chakra that connects us to healing energy itself .So without it being strong and open, the energy simply can't flow properly Among other things, the crown chakra is essential for: * Spiritual awareness (so you can sense the bigger picture and feel guided in your life) * A sense of connection to something greater (so you feel supported rather than alone in the world) * Inner knowing (so you can access wisdom beyond the thinking mind) * Mental clarity (so you can think cleanly without getting tangled up in your own head) * Living in alignment with your higher purpose (so your daily life reflects what actually matters to you) So come and join us for a powerful practice night and leave feeling energetically open and clearly connected. I'm back from holiday, so will be leading this personally. Hope you can make it, Jeremy PS If you've been craving a deeper dive into Reiki, our June retreat on our 50-acre property is the perfect chance. Discover esoteric symbols, Reiki vortexes, forest meditations, a cacao ceremony, and powerful group healing. It's an immersive weekend where you’ll learn advanced skills you won't get from any regular class. For full details, visit: https://www.om-reiki.com.au/reiki-retreats.html.

There have been some requests in the group for an afternoon tea, so here’s a really unique one! Oxi Tea Room was awarded one Hat this year and delivers an incredible afternoon tea experience. Here’s an example video of one of their previous menus: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIA3AtEh4bf/?igsh=MW5lN3ZmaGxkeHFwag== The new menu titled ‘Hatched - The Loop’ has just been released (menu here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cO4e2-mPF2ZE_C6Pce3FTallVZGlP1nJ/view) and I have booked this for 6 Fine Diners to enjoy from 12pm on Sunday 17 May. The price is $128 per person and includes a tea and a welcome drink. You can purchase additional teas/drinks on the day if you wish. 

Join the waitlist to express interest. Once I have names in the waitlist, I’ll send you a ‘Meetup Message’ to confirm you have a spot and how to pay. You’ll need to send me the full cost of $128 to secure your place as this is charged for cancellations. Once paid I’ll move you from the waitlist to going. Please check that you don’t have your settings blocking messages; if I can’t contact you I’ll have to move on to the next person. Also if you don’t respond to my message within 3 days, I’ll let you know that I’m offering the seat to the next person on the waitlist. 

Thanks and I’m looking forward to trying this beautiful-looking afternoon tea with you!

**SUNDAY FIESTA LATINA!** **SALSA BACHATA LATIN PARTY & SOCIAL** ***with* LATIN BAND 'DIRTY LOPEZ' !** *on* **SUNDAY 17th MAY 2026** *Let the infectious Latin rhythms ignite your passion!* *Enjoy an unforgettable night of live Latin music and dancing!* at **INNER NORTH BREWING COMPANY** **10A RUSSELL STREET** **BRUNSWICK** *Experience the passion and flavour of live Latin music!* *Join us for a sizzling night of LATIN FEVER!* *featuring* **‘DIRTY LOPEZ’** \- live at **7.45PM**! *One of Melbourne’s favourite LATIN BANDS* *playing their signature energetic and exciting* *Latin rhythms to keep you dancing all night long.* Bring your family, friends and colleagues and put on your dancing shoes! Join us for an unforgettable night of live Latin music and Salsa, Bachata and the best Latin mix played throughout the night! **NEW TO SALSA & BACHATA?** **Never danced Salsa or Bachata before?** No problem! Join us and learn how to dance with our fun, relaxed classes. We will have you dancing in no time! Our experienced instructor will kick off the night with a complimentary all level Bachata and Salsa class to get you dancing! ***See you on the dancefloor!*** **INNER NORTH BREWING COMPANY & BAR** *is a micro-brewery, specialising in producing and making their own signature quality freshly made beers on site, infused with good vibes!* *Give the beers a try. Let’s support the art of beer craftmanship.* **5.15PM** **PRE-PARTY MEETUP!** Come early and try a freshly made beer with us! Practice your moves, meet and make new friends before classes start! \| **6.30PM** **BACHATA CLASS** (All levels) *\* 10 minute Bachata dance practice* \| **7.10PM** **CUBAN SALSA CLASS** (All levels) \* Join us on your own or come with friends \* Absolute beginners welcomed \* No dance experience required! \| **7.45PM** **‘DIRTY LOPEZ’** *Playing Live!* \| **DJ MC** *Playing the best mix of Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha & more!* \| **– SOCIAL DANCING ’til 10.30PM –** **\*\*** **BEGINNER & IMPROVER DANCERS** *A special slower section will be added in soon after the first band set,* *especially for Beginner to Improver level dancers to get onto the floor* *to dance to a slower, more comfortable tempo!* **\*\* EVENTBRITE EARLYBIRD SPECIAL OFFER! \*\*** **BOOK EARLY & RECEIVE $5 OFF YOUR ENTRY!** **\*(Only $20 with Eventbrite + Eventbrite booking fee)** **See Eventbrite Earlybird Offer at:** [https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/fiesta-latina-sunday-latin-social-with-live-latin-band-sun-17th-may-26-tickets-1989094597486?](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/fiesta-latina-sunday-latin-social-with-live-latin-band-sun-17th-may-26-tickets-1989094597486?) **\* Please note:** Eventbrite has a booking fee of $2.49 **\* This Earlybird offer expires on Friday 15th MAY 2026** \* **To avoid a booking fee**, payment can also be made by direct bank transfer or PAYID - please contact me through Meetup to arrange this. Or pay at the venue on the night. \* Please note: Venue room entry is at full price **PARTY ROOM ENTRY: $25** **\* Entry includes:** *Live Latin Band and complimentary* *free Bachata and Salsa Classes* Bring your dancing shoes and get ready to dance the night away! ***Look forward to seeing you on the dancefloor!***

Modern life moves fast. Work, screens, notifications, constant thinking. It’s easy to feel stressed, tired, or disconnected. This Sunday, slow down with Kirtan - a powerful live music meditation experience. Come for: ✨ Singing, dancing, and uplifting energy ✨ A calm mind and open heart ✨ A real sense of belonging No singing skills needed! Just calmness & connection. 🗓️Sunday \| 6\-8pm 🍴Incl Dinner 📍South Melbourne

**Who We are..... 🤝** Our journey to bring people together began in January of 2022. The group was started with a simple intention to gather and meet some likeminded people - connecting through the powerful act of meditation and sharing our genuine selves while sitting in a circle that represents equality, harmony and wholeness( *we believe everyone in the circle is a teacher and a student at the same time)*. And over the last 4 years of consistently coming together, we have fostered a beautiful, loving, dependable community where members from all walks of life have experienced a sacred space to sit in silence together and meditate, share their authentic selves, give presence to others and forge meaningful and long lasting connections. The Meditations are guided by Sana(co-founder and host), who is a Trained and certified meditation teacher by the Meditation Association of Australia, and has been guiding meditations for 3+ years in corporate and community settings. ✨ **Do you wish to....** * Experience a simple yet powerful meditation and breathing practice to find calm, relaxation and clarity * Connect with like-minded people in your local community and foster meaningful connections * Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others * Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn) Or maybe you just want to... ☮️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet new people? Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **5 min guided meditation** to land into the space and connect within * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$15 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue, meetup membership and other costs, provide valuable resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present. **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need.

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your lamp, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Join us for a hands-on workshop where families can learn the art of creating beautiful Turkish lamps together. This unique and engaging class will guide parents and kids through crafting intricate and colorful lamps. No prior experience is required, as our expert instructors will provide step-by-step instructions on design, assembly, and decorating techniques. This workshop is perfect for families and friends to bond, unleash their creativity, and take home a stunning handmade craft that can brighten any room. Come discover Turkish lamp-making's magic with your little ones in a fun and supportive environment. In this 2.5-hour workshop, you'll lose track of time and end up with a beautiful lamp to take home!

* **What We’re About** You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with, so join us — and be part of a community that rises above circumstances and creates opportunities. Inspire and be inspired by those who make things happen. It's a relaxed, organic space to connect with like-minded people and network—genuinely talking, learning from each other, and connecting over shared interests. * **What to Expect** Casual Meetups: We gather semi-regularly at a local café to chat about everything from stepping outside your comfort zone to business ideas, creative projects, and building a life aligned with your purpose. It’s relaxed, easy, and welcoming—no need to have anything “figured out.” An Easy-Going Space: We keep things simple and low-pressure. Once everyone arrives, we ease in with some light conversation and naturally break into smaller groups. Networking: Feel free to introduce yourself or let people know what you're working on if you feel like it. And if anyone wants to quickly shout out what they’re working on or looking for before we settle in, go for it—it’s a great way to spark new conversations. * **Host Support** If you’d like a one-on-one chat with me about your business, just tap me on the shoulder. I’ll be floating around and happy to make time for you. **Quick note for the day:** Depending on the weather, we might go for a walk too. Just remember to wear comfy shoes 🌞 👟 🥾:) ❗If you're running late, drop me a quick message as we might leave the cafe for a walk within the last 30-45 minutes. 🏃 🏃‍♂️ 🏃‍♀️

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

The theme for May is Thriller. • The book we will be discussing is A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. (determined by votes from April Book Club. Let me know if you'd like a free digital copy of the book) • This event will be at the main library. Feel free to come whether or not you've started or finished the book. • Small snacks will be provided. You're welcome to bring your own snacks & drinks too! Let me know if you’d like to volunteer to bring snacks or drinks for the group.

Community Backyards Workshop .Community Backyards Workshop - Westerville Join us for the Westerville Community Backyards workshop! This is a FREE class on how you can protect our waterways and environment with small changes in your gardening habits. We will discuss rain barrels, rain gardens, composting, and native plants. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but not required. * Location: Westerville Community Center, 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082 * Date and time: Sat, May 30, 2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM * Organizer: Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/h2w5ms8 **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

Wild Ones Columbus Annual Native Plant Sale Saturday, May 23th, 2026 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (Eastern Time) Overbrook Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4131 N High St, Columbus, OH, 43214 Public Welcome, Family-Friendly Free Event A wide variety of native flowering plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees will be available from Wild Ones Columbus and local vendors Natives in Harmony, Leaves for Wildlife, and Scioto Gardens. Wild Ones will publish a list of plants that will be available at this year's sale closer to the event date. Be sure to stop by! Show up anytime!