ESL practice

'CONVENIENCE STORE WOMAN' by Sayaka Murata 'Keiko Furukura had always been considered a strange child, and her parents always worried how she would get on in the real world, so when she takes on a job in a convenience store while at university, they are delighted for her. For her part, in the convenience store she finds a predictable world mandated by the store manual, which dictates how the workers should act and what they should say, and she copies her coworkers' style of dress and speech patterns so that she can play the part of a normal person. However, eighteen years later, at age 36, she is still in the same job, has never had a boyfriend, and has only few friends. She feels comfortable in her life, but is aware that she is not living up to society's expectations and causing her family to worry about her. When a similarly alienated but cynical and bitter young man comes to work in the store, he will upset Keiko's contented stasis--but will it be for the better? Sayaka Murata brilliantly captures the atmosphere of the familiar convenience store that is so much part of life in Japan. With some laugh-out-loud moments prompted by the disconnect between Keiko's thoughts and those of the people around her, she provides a sharp look at Japanese society and the pressure to conform, as well as penetrating insights into the female mind. Convenience Store Woman is a fresh, charming portrait of an unforgettable heroine that recalls Banana Yoshimoto, Han Kang, and Amélie.' ***Please read the book and join us for a lively discussion (in English) about the contents during our afternoon book club meeting.*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **PLEASE NOTE:** This is an IN-PERSON event in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. Please cancel your attendance in advance if you are unable to join, so that those on the waitlist can participate. Looking forward to seeing you all IN REAL LIFE then! Best regards, Sandra

Join us for a scenic and varied hike around Oosterbeek, one of the most versatile routes in the Netherlands 🌿 Expect a mix of forests, riverside paths, historical landmarks, and open landscapes along this beautiful circular walk. 🥾 What to expect: • A circular hiking route starting from Oosterbeek station • Approx. 13 km | moderate level (good fitness required) • Forest trails, boardwalks, and riverside paths • Highlights include streams, viewpoints, and scenic nature spots • Historical sites including WWII memorials and landmarks • Unique landscapes including floodplains and countryside charm 📍 Starting point: Oosterbeek Station (easy access by train and bus) 🕒 When: Saturday, May 2 Meeting time: 11:00 AM at Oosterbeek Station We’ll wait about 15–30 minutes before starting, so departure around 11:15–11:30 🚗 Getting there: Reach Oosterbeek easily by public transport • Train: Direct to Oosterbeek Station (meeting point) • Bus connections available nearby • Parking available around the station and in town 💬 Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group for coordination, carpooling & updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Fv8Kqa3jMNK9nHKKAMV8SZ Follow our Instagram for photos & upcoming events: https://www.instagram.com/globeglide_?igsh=MWp3a2t6MmpocWFmZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr 🌼 Let’s enjoy a day of walking, nature, and great company! ⚠️ Disclaimer: This is a casual, non-commercial meetup organized by hiking enthusiasts. By participating, you acknowledge that you are joining voluntarily and at your own risk. The organizers are not responsible for any personal injury, health issues, transportation, loss, or damage. Each participant is fully responsible for their own safety, insurance, and well-being. ⸻ This route offers a great mix of nature and history, with plenty of beautiful spots to rest or even picnic along the way. Expect around 3–3.5 hours of walking at a relaxed pace. Bring suitable footwear, water, and snacks. Looking forward to hiking together!

Join us for a cozy, distraction-free afternoon where we slow down, connect, and create. This is a phone-free event — a chance to step away from screens and be fully present. We’ll start by getting to know each other in a relaxed setting, and then everyone will spend time working on their own creative project. Think simple, mindful, and low-space activities like: • Sketching or drawing • Painting (small canvases only) • Journaling or writing • Knitting or crochet • Any quiet, offline creative hobby 💡 Please bring something that doesn’t take up too much space and doesn’t require digital tools. We’ll sit together, enjoy the calm atmosphere, and gently connect — no pressure, just shared creativity. ⚠️ Limited spots available: maximum of 10 participants Sign up quickly to secure your place!

\# This meetup is around a third\-party organizer\, Focus Filmtheater\. You can either purchase your ticket online or right before the session\. **Seats are numbered**. We can meet for a drink before the movie. # **Title**: The Drama **Language**: English **Subtitles**: Dutch **Length**: 106 min **Director**: Kristoffer Borgli **More info**: https://www.focusarnhem.nl/agenda/the-drama/ **Ticket link**: https://www.focusarnhem.nl/tickets/144529/ **Synopsis**: A few days before their wedding, Charlie's (Robert Pattinson) and Emma's (Zendaya) relationship is turned completely upside down when Emma reveals a shocking secret from her past. What should have been a period of love and anticipation turns into an emotional crisis in which Charlie questions everything he thought he knew about his future wife. As the wedding draws closer, their relationship is put to the test and they must decide if their love is strong enough to survive the truth. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli ( *Dream Scenario* ) and produced by Ari Aster ( *Midsommar* ). The lead roles are played by Zendaya ( *Challengers, Dune* ) and Robert Pattinson ( *Good Time, Mickey 17* ). **How it works**: I will be at Focus around 20:15, where we can meet before the movie starts and have a drink. You can message me to find us. Screening starts at 21:15. Hope to see you soon!

* We **start at 11:30** at the car parking Parking, close to station: Stationsplein 5, 6881 WC Velp https://maps.app.goo.gl/mtKL419jenjZWcHGA * Length: \~15.7 km (4 - 5 hr hiking) * What to bring: lunch, water, snack. * For whom: As always, sporty folks that like to combine social event with being active in nature. **Getting there by Train:** * To Velp train station: https://maps.app.goo.gl/w1T91UyU57h57Z9P7 **Getting there by Car:** * Free Parking: P+R Stationsplein 5, Velp https://maps.app.goo.gl/mtKL419jenjZWcHGA **Note:** * Please **pay a small fee (3 euro)** to help us cover the (increased) yearly Meetup contribution of 240 euro. We'll ask you to pay before the start of the hike (can be on the day itself). No refunds, but in the unlikely event that hike would be cancelled and you already paid, you don't need to pay for your next hike. Thank you so much! Use the **safe link** here: https://betaalverzoek.rabobank.nl/betaalverzoek/?id=cqlYWv_MTpSjp2VkROXWhA * Keep in mind that the hike can be canceled when the weather is very bad (**always check the event before you go**). * If you RSVP 'yes' we expect you to show-up. Please do not cancel less than 24 hours before the hike. **No-shows** will lead to your removal from the group. Thanks for the understanding. * By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

Hi there! 👋 Tonight we'll have fun over a nice game of pool. From clueless to amateur, all levels are welcome - the important thing is to enjoy and socialize in our beautiful rainbow community 🌈. The meetup will start at 20:00h and is expected to end around 23:00. ✨️ Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: @utrecht.lgbt ✨️ Looking forward to seeing you all soon! ❤️🌈

Let’s go on picnic together be outside in nature, share some food and let’s get to know each other! Bring a smile, fun vibes and you are free to bring some snacks (drinks)

**\*\*The Perfect excuse to Draw and Paint in the Dark, and have Fun!\*\*💕**👨‍🎨👩‍🎨💕 ⭐ No experience needed 💬 English speaking activity 🕑 2 Hours of painting, creativity & fun in the dark 🧑🏻‍🎨 Workshop is guided by a professional artist 🎨 Extra Creative warming-up activity 🥳 All materials included 🏢 Amersfoort / Langestraat / City center 🎟️ **Book your seat formally HERE in [THIS LINK](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430509)**! 📽️🔮🌙🌟 Check on YouTube, a video of what painting with us in the dark looks like: [https://www.youtube.com/shorts/D_Wo1esvls4](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/D_Wo1esvls4) 🌟If you want, you and your friends can bring freely any accessory, custom, or object that glows in the dark to have fun. 👓🎩⛑️👒🧤👕👙👔👗. This is a personal choice and not for everyone. Just for those who want to do it. 🎈 **Is it your birthday🎂 or a special occasion👰🏻💍🎒🧑🏻‍🎓, and do you want to bring some friends?** We can do something special for you ( contact us in advance to arrange). **🎨**💃🏻🎉**🖼️ ENJOY 2 HOURS OF CREATIVITY AND FUN IN THE DARK!** 🕑**CALENDAR 2026:** First Sunday of every month from 4PM - 6PM Jan 4 Feb 1 March 1 Apr 5 May 3 Jun 7 July 5 Aug 2 Sept 6 Oct 4 Nov 1 Dec 6 Jan 3 2027 🚫**NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED.** Our Artists and hosts will guide you through a step-by-step tutorial. You can use our suggested image or bring your picture of reference 🎨🖌️🖼️**ALL MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED** We'll provide you with everything you need to create your masterpiece. Create your very own masterpiece in only 2 hours using Glow in the Dark Painting! This session is not about perfection; it is about capturing emotions and personal expression. No experience required - our professional artist will guide you step-by-step. You can come with friends or alone - you are always very welcome! **🎟️🤔 QUESTIONS?** Contact one of our team members via WhatsApp in the following link: **[https://bit.ly/ArtLoversTickets](https://bit.ly/ArtLoversTickets "https://bit.ly/ArtLoversTickets")** **See you Soon.We are looking forward to painting and having Fun Together!** **🥳🎈**

**🟢🟢 ABOUT OUR WATERCOLOR PAINTING PARTY / AMERSFOORT** 🎨🥳🍷🏢 Amersfoort - Utrecht Province / Center of the City / Easy access from train station. Create your very own **portrait, animals, landscape, or figurative** masterpiece in only **2.5 HOURS using watercolor and our secret mixed media techniques!🧪🧫.** This session is not about perfection; it is about capturing emotions and personal expression. **No experience required** **\- trust us\!** our professional artist will guide you step-by-step through this unique self-portrait journey. You can look forward to a fun and exciting evening with other participants, **so it doesn't matter if you want to come with friends or alone - you are very welcome!** This is the perfect after-work or weekend activity where you'll unleash your creativity while creating something deeply personal. You will create a portrait combining painting, drawing, and creative techniques to bring your unique vision to life. When finished, you'll take home your newly created self-portrait artwork to cherish or share with loved ones. Each participant will have pencils, colored pencils, watercolor, acrylic/gouache paints, and a surface. You'll work from an image we will bring. **🎟️ READY TO HAVE FUN?** Get your Ticket and book your seat **✨[HERE](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430555) ✨** 🤔 **Questions?** Speak with a member of the team in **[WHATSAPP HERE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J3Y5yeWUhvbJM98bqty2WP) 💬** .................................... **🟢🟢 WHAT'S INCLUDED?** 🔶 All supplies included 🔶 **2.5-HOUR [TICKET SESSION](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430555)** 🎟️ 🎁 **EXTRA BONUS:** **FREE TICKET**🎟️ to participate in our Drawing and Painting Cafes in Amersfoort or Our Online Still-Life sessions if you live far away. 🔶 New friendships and Conversations💬 🔶 Freedom to work at your own pace 🔶 **English tutored activity** (And of course, you can speak in your local language with your friends!🍷🥰🥰🍹) ⭐ No experience needed **🎟️ BOOK YOUR SEAT🪑 IN ADVANCE ✨[HERE](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430555) ✨!** 🤔 **Questions?** Speak with a member of the team in **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J3Y5yeWUhvbJM98bqty2WP) 💬** **🕑 2026 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS:** First Sunday or every month from 11.00 AM - 1:30 PM. .................................... **🎟️ ART LOVERS CLUB / ABOUT US** **ART LOVERS CLUB** is a community where art enthusiasts come together to explore their creativity and connect with new buddies through various events and sessions ( In-Person and Online) . Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, we have something for everyone!⭐ To share with you more about what we do, you can see here the overall atmosphere of our events in Amersfoort and also follow us if you want⭐: **[https://www.instagram.com/art_lovers_social_club](https://www.instagram.com/art_lovers_social_club)** 🤔 **Questions?** Speak with a member of the team in **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J3Y5yeWUhvbJM98bqty2WP) 💬** **🕑 2025 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS:** First Sunday or every month from 11.00 AM - 1:30 PM. **See you soon. We are looking forward to painting and having Fun Together! 🎨👩🏼‍🎨👨🏼‍🎨👩🏼‍🎨🧑🏼‍🎨🎈**

🎉**Welkom! 欢迎光临!** 🎉 We’re thrilled to welcome you to our **Dutch-Chinese Language Exchange Event** – a fun and interactive gathering where language, culture, and new friendships come together! Whether you’re learning **Dutch**, exploring **Chinese**, or just love meeting people from around the world, today is all about **sharing, speaking, and having fun**. And this time, we’re adding an extra twist — **ping pong!** Practice your language skills through relaxed conversation, pick up new vocabulary while playing games, and enjoy the mix of cultures in a casual, friendly setting. Whether you're a beginner or fluent speaker, there's something here for everyone. So say “你好” or “Hallo”, join a game, and let the exchange begin! **The event itinerary will roughly be as follows**: \- We will meet at the ping pong table and start playing right away\. \- After the event we may stay at the cafe area of the ping pong clun for chatting\. (Depends on the availability of tables at the ping pong place) \- We will share the cost of renting the table tennis venue. Also everyone will pay for their own drinks. Some notes about the event \- We will check attendance at the beginning of the event\, so make sure to sign up if you're joining\ \- We will collect 1 € contribution to cover the expenses on MeetUp\ \- Some pictures may be taken during the event\, if you prefer your photos not to be taken or shared please reach out to the organizer\ \- Please behave in a kind manner\. In case anyone causes trouble or bothers others they will receive a permanent ban to all the future events of this group\

Join us for a relaxed and friendly matcha tasting meetup. I’ll bring matcha for everyone to try, and you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, including alcohol if you like. This is a casual event for meeting new people, enjoying Japanese tea culture, and spending a cozy afternoon together. Beginners are very welcome. Free to join.

Come and join us for an evening of Buddhist meditation with like-minded people. The doors open at 7:00 PM, and meditation begins promptly at 7:15 PM. The meditation will last between 30 to 40 minutes, followed by tea and biscuits for anyone who would like to stay and chat. On some evenings, there will also be a short Dharma talk to provide some Buddhist context. The meditation space is down at the canal. To get there, you can take the stairs down. The meditation is offered on a donation basis. See our [website](https://utrechtbuddhistcentre.nl/) for more information.

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

Practical AI for Power BI Developers A year ago, “agentic AI” was mostly hype for Power BI teams. Today, it deserves your undivided attention. For Power BI pros, there is now a real opportunity to reduce repetitive development work, accelerate delivery, and help developers do more, but only when strong DataOps practices are in place to make AI workflows effective. This session is a no-nonsense introduction to effective AI patterns for Power BI and Fabric development. Along the way, we will make sense of the growing pile of terminology, including skills, plugins, hooks, and MCP. You will see examples of how modern AI tooling can help with development tasks across Power BI and Fabric, along with the prerequisites, guardrails, and DataOps principles needed to use it responsibly. Whether you're burned out on AI hype or already using Copilot CLI daily, this session will show you the foundations that are finally making AI-assisted development genuinely useful.

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

Join us at Unity of Columbus for our Weekly Reiki Share, a peaceful and uplifting gathering for connection, healing, and growth. A Reiki Share is a time where Reiki practitioners and students come together to give and receive healing energy in a supportive and welcoming environment. These sessions will be moderated by Columbus Unity Reiki. Reiki is a hands-on energy healing method from Japan that first came to the United States in 1938. Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now widely practiced throughout the West. All levels are welcome, and you do not need to be a practitioner at Unity of Columbus to attend. If you are a Reiki practitioner, a Reiki student, or simply interested in becoming a Reiki student, we warmly invite you to join us. Come practice your healing techniques, learn new approaches, receive healing energy, and connect with a like-minded community in a space of relaxation, renewal, and positive energy.

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

Inspired by our successful events like "Saturday Mornings @ East Market" and other "Pot Luck in the Park" lunches, this gathering promises to be a blend of fun conversations, language exchange, and cultural insights, all while sharing wonderful foods with each other. **Please bring a dish to share and anything you would like to drink.** We will provide plates, plastic silverware and napkins. So, come hungry and ready to chat!