early childhood

**Click** [here ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/patio-social-for-neurodivergent-adults-tickets-1990579924138)**for non-members to register and submit your info for the activity.** **[Constellations ](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership)Patio Social + community lore activity** in Arlington, Virginia. This will be a relaxed patio social for neurodivergent adults (most will be 20s/30s) focused on conversation and meeting new people through a low-key activity. Participate in our “Community Lore” activity — a social scavenger hunt-style game designed to make mingling feel easier and spark better conversation. Before the event, attendees will submit a few fun facts, unusual skills, niche interests, and/or random details about themselves. We use these anonymous submissions to create the activity cards. When guests arrive, anyone who wants to participate will receive a card featuring fun facts submitted by other attendees. As you mingle throughout the evening, you’ll try to figure out which person matches each item on your card. We’ll have reserved patio seating, casual games, complimentary appetizers, and drinks available for the group. Alcoholic beverages and additional food or entrees can be purchased individually. While we do have reserved patio seating, this may not be the best fit for individuals who are highly sensitive to noise or busy environments. **Click [here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/patio-social-for-neurodivergent-adults-tickets-1990579924138 ) for non-members to register and submit your info for the activity.**

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\! On Friday night\, volunteers help with setup of the snack bar\, posting signage\, and other duties as needed\. This event is held on the **first weekend of each month** between April and November. (volunteers are also needed for cleanup on Saturday afternoon - see separate Meetup event) 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!*

This is where you meet the area's 30, 40 and 50 years young; 30 somethings, 40 somethings, 50 [somethings.......as](http://somethings.......as/) they are known as GENERATION Xers....., who are active, self accomplished, sophisticated, young at heart, empty nesters; who would like to do things and enjoy life; who has got time and could afford it as well! ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GRAB AT LEAST A DRINK OR A FOOD ITEM :) 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. Direct RSVP required. We have the discretion to decide entry. Many of you were not born while we were partying:) The profile picture of this invite was taken while we were having a blast. One of our members was buying us rounds of shots. He almost spent $ 1K just on shots. LET US DO IT AGAIN! They also make us feel loved and honored, by serving, one of our signature cocktails, which is named after us - MerTini:) It will be one of the featured cocktails. Ask your bartenders:) Unacceptable Attire: 1. Athletic Clothing: This Includes gym attire, sweatpants, yoga pants, and tracksuits 2. Baggy Clothing: Clothing that is excessively loose-fitting or oversized, such as baggy jeans, sagging sweatpants or oversized t-shirts. 3. Sportswear: Jerseys, team logos, and other sport-specific attire 4. Beachwear: shorts, tank tops, swimwear, and revealing clothing 5. Flip Flops: Open-toe sandals, thong sandals, and flip flops are not allowed 6. Timberlands and Steel Toed Shoes. DETAILS : * We will have a registration station and check you in. * 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. PARKING INFO Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking. We highly encourage you to take a public transportation, taxi service or a ride share. DRINK RESPONSIBLY. ***N.B. : 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/)).***

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

(NOTE: If you feel sick/unwell, stay home, no worries. We'll be around next month. ALSO: This is a new location due to renovations at the Hyatt) WHO: DC-Area Global Nomads/TCKs WHEN: 7pm First Friday of Every Month WHERE: Spotted Zebra at Marriott Metro Center, 775 12th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001 WHY: If you grew up abroad as a kid, come on over and meet other folks (ranging in ages of early-20s to late-60s) who know the true meaning of "So where are you from?" If you can't make it this month, no worries, they're generally on the first Friday of every month, with a few exceptions, particularly if it's a holiday weekend (Independence Day, Columbus Day, etc) or if I'm out of town. *Ideas for other possible locations always welcome (preferably ones that are relatively quiet -- good for conversation -- and serve wine/beer/booze).*

**[GREEK ISLANDS PRIVATE YACHT LUXURY CRUISE!](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/greece-cruise-june-2026/)** **• Dates:** June 5 - 12, 2026 *(8 days / 7 nights)* **• Cost:** from $6600 per person *(excluding flights)* **• Single supplement:** Some rooms have, some do not **• Trip details:** [https://globe-drifters.com/trip/greece-cruise-june-2026/](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/greece-cruise-june-2026/) If you have any questions, please email [info@globe-drifters.com](http://info@globe-drifters.com/). ***Set sail on a private yacht for an exclusive adventure through the Greek islands…*** **Hidden Greek gems, fewer crowds:** Our private yacht takes you to a handpicked selection of Greece’s most enchanting and lesser-known islands which large cruise ships can’t reach, offering a peaceful, crowd-free experience. **Timeless beauty, ancient treasures:** Discover Folegandros, an island with roots dating back over 5,000 years, and explore Monemvasia, a medieval “rock town” where time stands still amid its ancient fortress. **Tailored luxury at sea:** With just 24 rooms and 21 crew members, your experience is truly personalized. Enjoy daily yoga, meditation, and pilates sessions and unwind with spa treatments from a Balinese therapist. Plus, your cruise concierge will assist with optional excursions and dinner reservations, ensuring a seamless and stress-free vacation. **Since we’re on a small, private boat, we have a customized, hand-picked itinerary and we can sail to the more far-flung, less touristy islands; many of which are pedestrian-only (car-free!!) such as Folegandros.** **This is a private, luxury cruise so that means…** • We’ll sail on a luxurious **yacht with just 24 rooms and 21 crew members** for a truly personalized experience. • Our yacht is smaller so we can **go to more far-flung islands** that the big cruise ships don’t go to. • There will be **yoga, daily meditation, and pilates sessions with the wellness coach onboard.** **• Spa treatments from a Balinese therapist** on the yacht are also available! **• A concierge will be onboard** to recommend what to eat, see, and do so you can just relax and enjoy your vacation!

There is no such thing as too much Ocho de Bastos. They will be part of Rockville Squares summer concert series. Bring a chair.

This is a three-day event, and we will MeetUp for the Saturday event. There are two events, the first is held on the National Archives lawn. It's from 9am-noon and It's a dog friendly celebration blends community fun with red, white, and blue spirit for humans and furry friends alike. Guests will enjoy interactive booths from local and national organizations, including the ASPCA and Mars, Incorporated brands, music, pet-themed caricatures, face painting, selfie stations, treat and swag giveaways, and a Patriotic Pooch Contest, so don’t forget to dress your dog in their patriotic finest! [Proof of a current rabies vaccination](https://archivesfoundation.org/pet-registration-yappy-hour/) is required for all dogs attending. Tickets are offered for free on the link below. The next event event is the same day called **Salute to Service 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. ET** In honor of the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army and Navy and 82nd anniversary of D-Day, this tribute celebrates service members past and present. Guests will enjoy live performances by military bands, step inside a Vietnam War Army helicopter, and participate in hands-on activities that connect them to stories of service found within the National Archives. United States Navy Memorial President and CEO Vice Admiral John B. Nowell, Jr., USN (Ret) will emcee the event. I'll be there at the first event, stay tuned to the messages as to the exact location, as I have no idea how the area will look. https://archivesfoundation.org/spirit-of-independence-festival/

Tree Walk 10-11:30 AM Come for all or part of the tree walk Bon Air Park Meet at flagpole in the rose garden

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

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!*

🎉 1980’s Glow in the Dark Theme Party 🎉 (Brah… the heated pool is OPEN… and yes, you’re getting in 😄) If you’ve ever wanted an excuse to wear neon, crank up 80’s music, and act like you’ve got zero responsibilities… this is your night. We’re turning the Happy Treehouse into a full-blown glow party with neon lights, throwback hits, and a crowd that actually came to have FUN. ✨ The heated pool is open… and let’s be honest… if you show up, you’re probably ending up in it. Just embrace it now. ✨ In-ground trampoline will be down in the pavilion… because why should kids have all the fun? ✨ Three fire pits going all night with everything you need for s’mores (yes, we’re doing this right) ✨ Neon lights, great music, and a vibe that makes it way too easy to relax and connect This is a potluck + BYOB, so bring a dish to share and your drink of choice. We’ve got the water bottles, the setup, and the space… you bring the flavor. Dress code? Go BIG or go home. Leg warmers, wild wigs, off-the-shoulder tops, crimped hair, neon necklaces and bracelets… if it glows or screams 80’s, you’re doing it right. No awkward energy. No standing around wondering what to do. Just music, laughter, and a group of people who are all in. If you’ve been looking for a night that actually feels different… This is it. Your happy hosts, Janine, Amanda and Nina 202-271-0922

This is the sign you've been waiting for. Come write with us Sunday at 7:30 am at Kaldi's Social House in Arlington. Kaldi's opens at 7. Grab a coffee and join the group! We generally have 10 to 14 writers attend each week, and new folks are welcome to drop in anytime. Intros start at 7:30 am. We will write for one hour. After writing, feel free to debrief, share thoughts or get advice. Our meetups are a safe space for writers to work on their craft. No one will read or critique your writing. Kaldi's Social House website: https://www.kaldissocialhouse.net/ \* Resource \* Many thanks to Justin for putting together a shared file of resource discussed at the meetings. Feel free to add to it! [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13LONNjZvsO5hEXM7NsBnWCgy3GgPgjAbQxE0lPxp7hc/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13LONNjZvsO5hEXM7NsBnWCgy3GgPgjAbQxE0lPxp7hc/edit?usp=sharing)

**Bring your pups out for a day of activities celebrating our furry friends.** **Enjoy a dog park and splash pad, pet vendors, rescues with adoptable dogs, giveaways and more!** **Party with your dog and PenFed with canine caricature art, a foam party for dogs, the Automatic Treat Machine (ATM), giveaways and more! PenFed members will get a VIP gift while supplies last.** **Participating vendors list:** **Bark and Boarding** **Dyson** **Homeward Trails** **Impact Over Money Companions** **Isy's Ways** **Paw Mind Body** **Pet Wants** **Puppy Pawtique** **Sassy Woof** **VCA Southpaws** **Wooftrap Animal Rescue** **Woofie's mobile grooming** **Bellani Pets** **St. Roccos Treat Shop** **More coming soon!** **This event is open to the public and free to attend. Sponsored by PenFed.**

I have been studying the question of "self" online with Prof. Ellie Anderson and so I thought a prompt on the "self" might be interesting. Full confession: I had Claude create this prompt and I like it, so here goes: Imagine a thought experiment that merges two classic puzzles: > You undergo a procedure, performed neuron by neuron, in which every biological component of your brain is replaced with a functionally identical synthetic substitute. At each step, your behavior, memories, and personality remain unchanged. When the last neuron is swapped, is the consciousness experiencing the world still you? And — more pressingly — was there ever a continuous "you" to begin with? ### Questions to Wrestle With * If consciousness is purely physical, does the *gradual* nature of the replacement matter, or is it equivalent to being destroyed and rebuilt? * Could there be a "self" without continuity of experience — even moment to moment, while you sleep? On a more practical level, consider the simpler case first: **hemispherectomy** patients — people who have had an entire cerebral hemisphere surgically removed — often retain a strong sense of personal identity and continuity. This suggests "you" are not rigidly tied to specific physical material. But does that vindicate the synthetic neuron case, or merely show that identity is more *flexible* than we thought — not that it can survive *complete* substrate replacement? I used Claude so I could get this out today and let everyone have some time to consider it. Hope to see you at the Oracle. Sorry about the location change two weeks ago. That's what I get for trusting local weather predictions!

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.