Dog Recreation

This is an out-and-back hike along the Appalachian Trail in the central district of Shenandoah National Park. Starting at the Pinnacles Picnic Ground, we'll hike the A.T. northbound, crossing over The Pinnacle, third highest peak in the park. We'll pass Byrd's Nest #3 shelter and on to Mary's Rock where we'll pause for a snack. Then we'll retrace our route back to the cars. This hike is about 7.5 miles long with 1,400' of total elevation gain, including a couple of ascents of about 470'. **Difficulty:** Moderately Strenuous **Distance:** \~ 7.5 miles **Elevation gain:** \~ 1,400 feet **Pace:** 2 – 2.5 mph **Dogs:** Dogs are allowed. Please let me know if you plan to bring your dog. **Entrance fee:** $30 per vehicle or a park pass [Fees and Passes - Shenandoah National Park](https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm) **Trailhead**: [38.623713, -78.343606](https://maps.app.goo.gl/n7NXTfBrvysSyZXo7) Please arrive by **8:45am**. We hike at 9:00 **Map**: [AllTrails Mary's Rock via Pinnacles Picnic Grounds](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/marys-rock-via-pinnacle-picnic-grounds) **Weather**: [7-Day Forecast](https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-78.326&lat=38.629) **Leader**: Steve Wiley, (C) 571-345-6441 **Rehydration**: [Off the Grid 11692 Lee Highway Sperryville](https://www.offthegridva.com) *Blue Mountain Hiking Club Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. With your RSVP you agree with the following* ***[Disclaimer / Liability Waiver](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kpSRdwadNo1oIsc4af64sADiz5nlfyHq/view).***

Friends, we can do an out and back hike for this, 3 miles in total. There will be plenty of parking, we will meet at the parking lot. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. and of course, always bring a joke!! This is a meetup group for support and community. If you hit on me or anybody else in the group, you will be removed. People with agendas will be removed. **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 or city, 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.

Some questions cannot be answered by Google or AI because Curanderismo has been an oral tradition passed down from generation to generation. What would you ask to an Elder Shaman who is a Recognized Elder in an evening of connection and social gathering over tea and cookies? Join us Friday, March 6th from 6pm-8pm for a special opportunity to meet Maestra Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes and ask questions that you have regarding Shamanism, Energy Healing, Energy Balancing, Curanderismo Rituals such as traditional Energy Cleansings like Limpias, Limpias with herbs, Candles, or Walking the Shaman path in the Curanderismo Tradition. Tea and cookies will be provided. **About Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes: Maestra Ixtoii Paloma** is an elder, instructor, or “Maestra” of the Curanderismo Tradition and also a full-time Curandera and Shaman. She was born and raised in Mexico into the tradition. She started working full-time as a Curandera in the 1980’s. In the late 90’s she moved to the UK and then to California (USA) where she kept her practice and started to teach Mexican Shamanism and Curanderismo and other spiritual modalities. Now not only does she teach in California, but also in other states and countries. It is important to know that she is not an anthropologist or historian. Paloma learned from her teachers in the ancient way, “oral tradition”. \*IMPORTANT NOTE: Paloma is a Mexican Shaman who believes that "medicine plants" are helpful to some people only when used properly in ceremonies. The use of any conscious expanding plant or animal medicines should only be used with the strict and loving guidance of an experienced facilitator. She does not allow the use of any plants, brews, ceremonial tobacco, recreational drugs, alcohol, cannabis, etc. in her workshops or healing ceremonies. Please do not use these before or during her events and services. If you do so you will be asked to leave the event immediately and without a refund. For medicinal plant or animal medicine guidance, please arrange for a private consultation to discuss your particular needs and expectations. **Details** Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit#5 Arlington VA 22205 (We are located on the second floor above trade roots coffee shop. Must enter on the side of the building and go upstairs) Our studio is located in the westover village in Arlignton VA a walkable neighborhood with plenty of street parking.(Please arrive early to set up your spot we will start on time, space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe) Energy Exchange: $17 Time 6pm-8pm (two hour long) Info: healing@curanderasheart.com [www.curanderasheart.com](http://www.curanderasheart.com/) 703\. 531\.7046 call or text \*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed or cancelled reservations.\*\*\*\*

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with **"I Accept"** to be permitted on the hike. **About a 7 mile Loop** with **minimal elevation gain**. Most of the hike will be on **pavement.** **Treat** yourself to a lovely visit to the **[United States Botanic Garden](https://www.usbg.gov/)**. It is the oldest continuously operating public garden in the United States. During the late 18th century, George Washington had a dream of a national botanic garden and was instrumental in establishing one on the National Mall in 1820. To **Prepare our Visit** to this '**secret garden',** you might want to first take a **[Virtual Tour](https://www.usbg.gov/visit/tours/take-virtual-tour) ;** an **[Audio Tour](https://www.usbg.gov/audio-tours);** or a **[Video Tour](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGr704ibVLOZ7rPU5NyL7_eYKxL197x88)** of the **[gardens.](https://www.usbg.gov/)** From there we will head over to the **[Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/)**[ ](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/) for **[lunch](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/).** You can eat at the cafe or bring your own lunch. **Description:** We will leave from from **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)**, head along the **Potomac River** on the **Mount Vernon Trail,** cross **Memorial Bridge** to the **Mall.** We will admire the view of **Mall** from the **Monument**. From there we continue along the Mall to the **[U.S. Botanic Garden](https://www.usbg.gov/). After Lunch** at the **[Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/)** we will return to the Marina over the **14th street bridge**. **Pace**: Pace is about **2.5 mph** while moving. **Bring:** \- Hydration and snacks as you desire or purchase lunch at the Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe\. -The route is basically level. Most of the hike will be on paved surfaces so wear comfortable walking shoes. \- Dress in layers for the weather paying special attention to your head/hands\. **Dogs:** Dogs are NOT welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8)**. **Meetup Location:** We will meet up at Columbia Island Marina at 9:15 am to get checked in and ready to leave by 9:30 am. GPS Coordinates: **38.87651,-77.04947** **Maps** **[Map National Mall](https://npplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Mall-Map.pdf)**

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

***Please read all and make sure you agree before you sign up.*** **Court Type:** Outdoor Sand **Level:** adv beginners+/intermediate (BB/A) **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the sand courts, behind the courts, and there is garage parking close to the courts. Metro is the Blue and Yellow Lines. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball if you have one. **MAX:** 10 players per net. (1 Net) **Restroom:** Restrooms are across the street in the restaurants. **Host's Philosophy on This Event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. This is a space where you won’t be judged for making mistakes, ***but we do expect you to listen to the organizer if they make suggestions or adjustments***. We also expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this event isn’t intended for total beginners; an understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have issues with this ahead of the event. [https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Smiley Attendance Ratio\* > Skills (BB>B) > New Members The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event. One no-show means you will be removed from the group. See the rules below. **\*The organizers can see the number of times you have attended events vs the times you have dropped out. If your drop rate is more than 50%, you may not be accepted to the going list.** [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** * Bringing your **dog** is welcome and encouraged. * *Can I come if I don't know how to play?* No, you may not. The host teaches a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. * *Can I be late or leave early?* The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to arrive late or leave early, please let the host know in advance. * *Can I come even if I am not on the going list?* No, sorry * Why Max the players at 10 when you can do 6v6? This court is already for 2v2; getting 6 players on each side is overkill. * How can I become a regular if I don't ever get to attend? You can attend my other events on weekdays/weekends. Show me you have good skills and bring good vibes! **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)

\*\*\* The restaurant needs a credit card for reservation. So I made reservation just for me. Please reserve a spot directly with the restaurant for yourself \*\*\*\*\* We are meeting up for dinner at Daru Restaurant. This is a highly-rated fancy restaurant, they tend to fill out quick. The food is supposed to be really good! While reserving, I reserved the "6 pm Dining Room" for myself. So I will see you there. If you find a seat elsewhere, no biggie, I will come say hi to you. Even if you find spots for 6:15, 5:45 etc, please take it. We will use the meet-up app to coordinate. Dress to impress. Cos u know, we are fancy-shmancy. and please, spread the love!! Here is the restaurant link: https://www.darudc.com/ This is what they say: * A cancellation fee will not be charged if you cancel before Thu, Mar. 5 at 6:00pm. If you cancel after that, you agree to be charged a fee of $25.00 + tax per guest on the reservation. Any waiver of the fee is at the sole discretion of the restaurant. ## About Daru is a restaurant concept influenced and inspired by the cuisine, culture, and history of India. We specialize in classic and Indian-ish food and cocktails. Enjoy our year round heated and enclosed patio dining. Awards & Accolades: Food & Wine Magazine - #8 Best Restaurant in the US, 2024 Michelin Guide - Bib Gourmand 2022, 2023 Bon Appetit Magazine - Top 50 Best New Restaurants in America, 2022 New York Times - America's Best Restaurants, 2022 Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington - Best New Restaurant, 2022 Washingtonian Magazine - #11, Very Best Restaurants in Washington, 2023 Washington Post 2024 Fall Dining Guide Top 40 Restaurant

PawsUP for David and Brick for originally suggesting this awesome meetup and our dogs love it! -Dumbarton Oaks/Montrose Park in Georgetown -Meet at the entrance off of R st, on the East side (closer to the cemetery) -Plenty of street parking in the area -Bring water and a ball for your Aussie This park is a very large open field, that is very dog friendly. Tons of space to run and chase. Most if not all dogs are off leash. Occasional runners and kids (there is a playground), so keep that in mind. There is also a trail inside with a stream that the dogs love to play in.

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

Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796 Meeting location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/voNwinFikVNEdpL58 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/rachel-carson-trail 2.6mi Length 255ft Elevation gain 1–1.5hr Estimated time Loop This hidden gem is densely populated by numerous species of wildlife, high-quality forest and features spectacular rock and massive boulder outcropping throughout the park. This area remains undeveloped for some of the best hiking trails around! The Hawlings River passes through the park and almost the entire hike is along this beautiful river. Rachel Carson offers 650 acres of undisturbed wooded parkland and trails surrounding the Hawlings River in upper Montgomery County. Amenities: This is a "conservation park," which means there are no bathrooms and no water available. The trail is not well marked in some areas, downloading the map ahead of time is helpful for navigating.

Below is the alltrails link to the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/capital-crescent-trail We will only be doing 3 miles overall in this hike, out and back. Parking and Metro Access: Park in the garage near 7150 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20815. Or park on the streets----- street-parking is free on Sundays. For metro: just get down at Bethesda metro station. We will meet at the trailhead next to the Ourisman Honda, check out the photo section of this event for a visual of the location. 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\.

Hey everyone, Pugs, Puggles, and all pug-loving four-legged siblings are welcome! The Meetup is in the front "Puppy" area which is fenced off as you walk into the dog park from the Shirlington side. Pug Hugs, CB

Join us for our first ever St. Patty's day parade march in the annual Old Town Alexandria Ballyshaners's Parade. We are confirmed with details on line up and parade route pending. https://ballyshaners.org/ Parade staging will be 11:00-11:45 to begin marching the 10 block route at 12:30. I encourage you to come closer to 11:45 but please account for parking time if you plan on driving in instead of walking/metro'ing in. Our staging will be on the sidewalk since we do not have a vehicle/float this year. Please be as festive as possible. with the St. Patty's day theme. We are Welsh but that hasn't stopped us for Scottish Parade and it certainly doesn't stop us for an Irish theme! We should be marching at "normal adult walking pace" for 10 city blocks (30 min consistent walking) so for those of you with elderly corgis please bring a stroller for them to keep pace. We are encouraged to use metro since the staging area is a short walk from the King Street metro. I will send out additional instructions once we get them. For now the only major instructions is that we are not allowed to throw things at the crowd (candy etc) and that we should not have alcohol. Expect it to be fairly loud since there will be plenty of bands and bagpipe players. Parade "ends when it ends" but they expect it won't drag out longer than 1:30-2 pm.