Creative Living

The[ Simplicity Living Circle of Northern VA](https://www.coachingwithdanijk.com/blog/important-community-update-join-our-new-meetup-group-simplicity-living-circle-of-northern-va) meets on the first Saturday of each month from 4:00 to 5:30 PM at Lacey Woods Park in Arlington, Virginia. **\*This is a rain or shine outdoor event.** This free community group offers a unique and empowering space for individuals seeking to live a simpler, more intentional life. Through participant-driven discussions and facilitated activities, our circle fosters connection, reflection, and mutual support. Hosted by members of the Simplicity Living Circle of Northern VA, we welcome those who are curious about simplicity, mindful living, and environmental care. Whether you are just beginning or deepening your journey, you are warmly invited into this inclusive and supportive space. Logistics: * Feel free to bring what’s part of your life: kids, dogs, food, and musical instruments are all welcome. * Arriving at the start gives you the fullest experience, since the opening activities help create the group’s shared connection. If you arrive later, it may feel harder to fully step into that once the group has already begun bonding. *Note: Our official Meetup group changed due to administrative complications. This new group is now our verified and active community hub, which you can confirm at our in-person events.*

*Must register through* [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/constellations-offline-club-conversation-creativity-cocktails-tickets-1991207676763?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=0bb2e26d7bc403094dcecba8b683cfcd4baf10035c7fe2325f06bfc02017275ce21d78241950c92662868dbf4f13c16fed972fb6a441cd8768df67c9868ba2cf369533064862834fc264b135d8cd) *.* *Free for Constellations Members.* *Small donation for supplies asked for non-members.* Take a break from your screens and join us for an afternoon of conversation, creativity, and connection at Upside on Moore food hall in Arlington, Virginia. We'll have adult coloring sheets, cards, and simple games available. Feel free to bring a craft project — sketching, knitting, crocheting, or anything portable — or a light, easy-to-learn board game to share. You're also welcome to simply grab a drink or dinner and enjoy the conversation without engaging in any activities. Food, coffee, cocktails, and more are available from the many vendors at Upside on Moore food hall. Our only request: **keep phones tucked away whenever possible.** This is a chance to be present, meet new people, and enjoy some genuine offline connection. We'll post our exact location around 5pm the day of the event, but we typically gather in the quieter seating area toward the back, past Ghostburger. *Must register through* [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/constellations-offline-club-conversation-creativity-cocktails-tickets-1991207676763?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=0bb2e26d7bc403094dcecba8b683cfcd4baf10035c7fe2325f06bfc02017275ce21d78241950c92662868dbf4f13c16fed972fb6a441cd8768df67c9868ba2cf369533064862834fc264b135d8cd) *.* *Free for Constellations Members.* *Small donation for supplies asked for non-members.*

Let go of the week and welcome the weekend. Join master teacher Ann Kite **in person every Friday** at 8pm for a dynamic, deeply embodied release. Each week, 60–75 people gather to dance together in a supportive, spirited community. Ann has held this group for years, creating a **safe space to sweat, shift, and soften** the ego’s grip so the freer, wilder, more alive part of you can come through. Movement is for everyone, whether you’ve danced for years or are brand new. This **isn’t about performing or getting the “right” steps.** It’s about tuning into your body’s natural rhythms, finding freedom in stillness and motion, and remembering what it feels like to be fully alive. Whether you’re seeking connection, healing, or simply a fresh perspective, you’re **welcome exactly as you are**. Movement is the doorway. We’ll guide you the rest of the way. **Purchase tickets:** [https://www.annkite.com/letgo](https://www.annkite.com/letgo) \*\*\*\*\*Feb 27, Apr 1, Jun 26, Aug 28, and Oct 9, will be led by a substitute teacher as Ann will be away leading a retreat on those dates.

**Hey everyone, we’ve exciting news for our next workshop, June 6th. Lesley Younge, local poet and author, will be a guest speaker. It’ll start right at noon so come early (I’ll be there so come keep me company). It’ll be at our typical spot, CapOne Café at 7th & H, from 12-1, followed by the usual poetry sharing and feedback.** **Below is her bio, plus where you can find her online.** **Lesley Younge is an educator and writer from Silver Spring, Maryland. Her work has appeared in Poetry, Callaloo, Bay to Shore, West Trade Review, MQR Mixtape, Full Bleed and others. She debuted as an author in 2023 with two books for young people. Nearer My Freedom (co-authored with her mentor Monica Edinger) is an award winning YA verse novel remix of British abolitionist Olaudah Equiano’s seminal autobiography. A-Train Allen, her first picture book, was an inaugural Own Voices, Own Stories Grand Prize Winner awarded by Sleeping Bear Press. Two children’s books on the nonviolent life of Reverend James M. Lawson are forthcoming.** **Originally from Los Angeles California, she attended New York University and Bank Street College of Education, where she discovered a passion for supporting young people’s learning. She currently teaches middle school English in Washington D.C. This is her 20th year in the classroom.** **Lesley is a fellow of Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, Hurston/Wright Foundation, and Anaphora Literary Arts. She blogs and shares resources at teacherlesley.com** **[https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/lesley-younge](https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/lesley-younge)** **[https://writer.org/organizer/lesley-younge/](https://writer.org/organizer/lesley-younge/)** **We look forward to seeing you there!** Here're the usual notes about the rest of the workshop: Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

**Inner Alignment: Living in Sync with Your Values** In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to drift away from what truly matters. We make decisions out of habit, pressure, or expectation, often creating a quiet sense of misalignment within. This workshop is an invitation to reconnect with your core values and explore how they can become a steady compass for your thoughts, choices, and actions. Through guided meditation, reflective inquiry, and intentional dialogue, participants will identify what matters most to them and learn how to bring those values into everyday living. When we live in alignment, we experience greater clarity, integrity, and inner peace, regardless of external circumstances. Sat., Jun 6th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/cZSqR](https://shorturl.at/cZSqR)

Before I head to Atlanta to host , I wanted to create space for us to gather right here in Maryland. I will be sharing how I moved to Panama, sight unseen in 5 months. Join us.. If you’ve been quietly thinking: “Maybe it’s time for a different life…” “Could I really move abroad?” “Where would I even start?” “What about money, healthcare, safety, housing, visas, or income?” This gathering is for you. Join us for an intimate social meetup for Black women who are curious about living abroad, actively planning their exit, or simply exploring what life could look like beyond the U.S. This is not a formal seminar. This is a room full of women having real conversations about what it means to build a softer, safer, more aligned next chapter. Come meet other Black women who are asking the same questions you are. Come hear stories. Come ask questions. Come connect with women who are already making moves. We’ll talk about: • How women are actually relocating abroad • Countries Black women are considering most • Cost of living, healthcare, visas, and lifestyle • Income and retirement concerns • Starting over after 40 or 50 • Fear, uncertainty, and what’s really keeping women stuck • The first steps to creating your own relocation plan Whether you are thinking about moving in the next 24 months or you’re just beginning to explore the possibility, you belong in this room. And yes… refreshments will be served. Bring your questions. Bring your curiosity. Bring the version of yourself that knows she wants more from life.

Bring your paints brushes and supplies and let’s meet at the park to paint.

**The Bike Lane** in Reston is turning 25—and throwing a summer block party bash to celebrate! Join us at The Bike Lane for a day packed with group rides, live music, cold beer, and delicious food trucks. They’ve got some big party planning happening behind the scenes, and trust me—you won’t want to miss this one. More details to be added as they are announced! Stay up to date on all the details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1272557651680190 **Band Lineup** (exact times coming soon): * **The Stray Dogs** * **Longest Day of the Year** * **Hijynx** Bring a folding chair kick back and enjoy the music. **Food Trucks**: Killer Tomato Pizza, Nordic Knots, + a Surprise Guest! **Breweries**: Eight favorite beer friends will be there (marking 8 years of Bike Lane Brewing): Lake Anne Brewhouse, Jasper Yeast, Lost Rhino Brewing Company, Bitterfruit Brewing, Solace Outpost, Mieza Blendary, Sinistral Brewing Company! Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate 25 years of bikes, community, and good times with The Bike Lane!

SILVER SPRING, MD PROPERTY TOUR ### Sunday\, June 7th \| 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM **See. Explore. Be Prepared.** Join us for an exclusive Silver Spring, MD Property Tour! We'll visit **3–5 homes**, including a mix of **townhouses and single-family properties**, to give you a real look at what's currently available on the market. This event is designed to help buyers better understand pricing, features, neighborhoods, and what to realistically expect when searching for a home in today's market. Whether you're planning to buy soon or just starting your homeownership journey, this tour is a great opportunity to gain valuable insight and feel more confident before making a move. ### Perfect For: • First-time homebuyers • Future homebuyers • Relocating buyers • Anyone looking to better understand the current market ### What to Expect: ✔ Tour 3–5 available properties ✔ View a mix of townhomes and single-family homes ✔ Learn about pricing, financing, and market trends ✔ Ask questions and get expert guidance ✔ See what's available before you're ready to buy ### Important Details: 📍 Exact property locations will be provided the day before the event. ⚠️ Space is limited and registration is required. ### Reserve Your Spot! To reserve your spot and receive location details, please send your contact information to: 📧 [cassey.coul@gmail.com](mailto:cassey.coul@gmail.com) We look forward to seeing you there!

Higher Grounds – Arlington 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 Arlington who are also seeking deeper conversations. Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions * What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? * When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? * What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles * Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? * What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? * How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human * What human experiences will AI never truly understand? * If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? * What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning * What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? * How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? * What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche * What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? * Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? * What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose * When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? * What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? * How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection * What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? * When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? * What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality * What are you running out of time to say or do? * How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? * What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? Suggested Questions: Society & Culture * What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? * Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? * What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy * What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? * When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out? * What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Next up is Open City, the cafe of the National Cathedral. You can enjoy a drink and snack while you sit at the tables, or wander around the cathedral to find a subject. https://www.opencitycathedraldc.com/

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?

**Get your creative flow going with a Sunday Afternoon Maker Meetup!** Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you. 🧵 **What to Bring** Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think: * **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending. * **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling. * **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design. * *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!* **📍 Where to Find Us** * We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Martin Luther King Branch** in **Meeting Room 1**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.** **⏱️ Timeline** * **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on. * **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas. **⚠️ A Note on RSVPs** Space for this first meetup is strictly limited to 10 spots. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. We ask that you try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel. *** **We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**

Now in its 26th year, [The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/), in Gahanna, gathers world famous groups and performers at a single place for you to enjoy the best Blues & Jazz in Ohio. *SATURDAY NIGHT features: The Urban Jazz Coalition with Special Guest Brian Simpson, North Mississippi Allstars, The Deal Breakers & More.* The three-day cultural celebration features musicians on 3 stages, local food trucks and beverage stations, treats, artisans, and more. **Tickets are $15 for adults online.** Link to purchase tickets: [Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival Tickets](https://tickets.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/e/2026-creekside-blues-jazz-festival). $20 at the door. Military are free. WHAT: Here's the festival [EVENT MAP](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Event-Map/). Also, here's the [SCHEDULE](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Schedule/) map to help you determine who to see. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Parking -** The Creekside Parking Garage will be open throughout the festival weekend. Entrance is located near the intersection of Mill and North Streets; accessible only by traveling south on Mill Street. **Event parking rate is $5 and collected at entrance to garage. Cash ONLY is accepted at garage entrance for parking.** Although off street parking in the Creekside District is permitted, it is very limited and not recommended. **Shuttle Service** pickup will be at the following location: [AEP Ohio 700 Morrison Rd., Gahanna, OH](https://goo.gl/maps/K9GgvgEdxCHaXsKDA) **Shuttle Service Hours:** Saturday: 1 PM - 12 AM **BRING**: *Be sure to bring a **chair** since there is limited available seating. Also $ or paycard for food and drink.*

Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day! The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown. (The featured painting is by Columbus Art Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)

Let's mix and boogie! We'll start with social time over dinner/appetizers/drinks from 6:00-8:00pm. Then we'll get down with a live band [Shucking Bubba Deluxe](http://www.shuckingbubba.com/). COVER CHARGE: $10.00 (cash) SBD: A great danceable cover band playing popular genres of music - funk, classic rock, pop & club/dance. [Harry Buffalo](http://www.harrybuffalo.com/locations/westerville/) has a wide selection of quality appetizers and entrees. Harry Buffalo seating is first come/first serve this evening. We need a few folks to be there by 6:00pm or so to secure a table on the patio. DRESS: Late Summer Patio (picnic table friendly) BAD WEATHER CANCEL (usually by 4pm) PARKING: lots near restaurant and down the street. Do not park at Taco Bell.

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.