Glamping

*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.* Distance: 3.5 miles Elevation change: about 100' Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22! How far have we come since the first Earth Day in 1970? Join us at the 500-acre Lake Accotink Park, a surprising retreat in the middle of suburban Fairfax County. We'll walk partly on and partly off the main trail and along the lake shore on natural surface trails (about 4 miles total). We'll walk by an active eagle nest that is visible from the trail, unless the leaves are out. We may see the eagles flying around the lake. We'll find a variety of native plants, including the native azalea. **We meet at the parking lot by the dam**, then hike on natural surface side trails that most park visitors don’t know about. I'm also a naturalist, so we will stop occasionally to look at spring wildflowers. Some of the terrain is hillier than the main trail around the lake, with an elevation change of about 100 feet from lowest to highest, with many short but steep hills that make for a good workout for a suburban location. The route has small rocks, roots, and a couple of small stream crossings and is not suitable for people with difficulty walking. Pace is about 2 mph average with occasional short stops for checking out nature and discussing Earth Day. Restroom: By the pavilion (about a 5-minute walk from hike start) No dogs, please Park Entry Fee: NONE [Park map](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/Assets/documents/waterfront/lakeaccotink/lake-accotink-brochure-map.pdf) * NOTE: Alternate directions if you are coming to the Park from the direction of Tysons Corner on 495 (Beltway): You may enter the Park at an entrance on Heming Ave. From I-495, take Exit 54 East onto Braddock Road (east). From Braddock Road, turn right onto Heming Ave., then right into the parking lot for Lake Accotink Park. HOWEVER, you cannot drive from that parking lot to the hike starting place. The two parking lots are connected by a paved walkway through the Park. It's a short walk down the hill to the lake (passing restrooms at pavilion), and then follow road to the dam. Please allow 10 extra minutes once you park to find your way and to walk to the dam if you arrive that way.

Hi everybody! Want to see a body-swap (well, face-swap, actually) movie starring Nicolas Cage and John Travolta? If so, join me at the Alamo Drafthouse in Crystal City on April 22nd for a 7:00 pm screening of “Face/Off”. I’ll be sitting in Row 5, Seat 10 in Theater 2. If anyone wants to chat before the screening, I’ll be in the Departures bar and lounge around 6:30 pm.

Its that time of year when Brookside Gardens should be filled with bombastic spring colors. Let's take an evening stroll to check them out. We will meet up near the restrooms at Wheaton Regional Park (go left at the roundabout). We will head northeast and enter the gardens, making a large loop to see all of the perimeter areas, but not necessarily examining every exhibit. From there, we will backtrack slightly and loop past Pine Lake and the carousel on the way back to the start. Total distance should be 2.5 miles or less, depending on how much meandering we do in the garden. Our start point is about 120' higher than the gardens, but it is just one big gradual slope that you will barely notice. [Follow our route on Alltrails here](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/wheaton-to-brookside-2mi-1b90cc9?u=i&sh=5s9wgt)

“An unspoken rule, a basement, and a whole lot of chaos.” David Fincher, 1999 – drama, psychological thriller Come experience Fight Club with fellow fans who definitely won’t talk about it afterward. No soap-making required. I’ll be in the lounge about an hour before showtime, and we can meet back there after the screening to discuss. Alamo Drafthouse Crystal City: Theater 6, row 7, seat 9 Tickets and more info available [here](https://drafthouse.com/dc-metro-area/show/fight-club-4k-remaster?srsltid=AfmBOoroE8eryDhHxBYVef3BfQmevDEbOf2gEcZNYPqkTI_iXlGk0x0l&cinemaId=1102&sessionId=57042&date=2026-04-22)

It looks like a dive, and it is, but the food is incredible. The best Chinese dishes in town! The name is deceiving because they have so much more than noodle dishes. Here's their menu: [NoodleKingMenu](https://www.noodlekingrestaurant.com/NoodleKingMenu.pdf) I love their walnut shrimp, Hong Kong Fish and French Kew Beef and broccoli. Order your favorite Chinese dish and be surprised how good it is! They have beer and wine as well. All aboard mates!\~

If you’ve already learned the basics of volleyball and want to keep improving your skills while having fun, this event is for you! **How to find us:** Park in the South Bluemont Parking Area and walk toward the south end of the lot. Near the end, you’ll see a bridge on your left—cross it. We’ll be on the field to the left of the picnic pavilion. **Skill Level:** Advanced Beginner (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details). **Reminders** 1. Attendance: We’ve noticed that the waitlist is growing, so please make sure your name is on the Going list if you plan to play. Our number of nets is limited so this helps avoid too many rotations. If your name is on the list but you don’t show up, it will count as an absence according to Smiley Social rules. Please update your RSVP at least 12 hours in advance if your plans change. 2. Injuries: Play safely and be mindful of others on the court. Respect positions and avoid risky moves that could lead to injury. If you’re not sure the ball is yours, call it before going for it to avoid collisions. 3. Game Rules: Let’s follow the basic volleyball rules, especially the three-touch rule so we can play properly and improve as a team! **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. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first international adventure, this trip is perfect for women who want to expand their horizons and create unforgettable memories. **Don't miss this opportunity where you're cordially invited to join us in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam!** **Join one of our monthly live Q&A calls to get your questions answered or visit our website for complete details and to book!** Website: [Over 30 & Overseas](www.over30andoverseas.com) **The Itinerary** **Day 1: Arrival to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam & Welcome Dinner** Your journey to Vietnam, begins with a warm welcome! Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly representative and whisked away in comfort to your hotel. Unwind in the stylish surroundings of your 8 day oasis. Take a moment to freshen up and explore the hotel’s amenities. As the sun begins its descent, gather with your fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner. **Day 2: Guided Tour of Ho Chi Minh City + Lunch** Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the city's history and culture. Your knowledgeable guide will meet the group at the hotel and escort us on a fascinating exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks and markets. Lunch will be included. **Day 3: Street Food Tour** Get ready to tantalize your taste buds on a thrilling culinary journey through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City! Our mode of transport will be on the leisurely charm of a cyclo ride. **Day 4: Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta + Lunch** Upon arriving at the Cu Chi Tunnels, delve into the heart of history as you explore the underground network that played a crucial role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence. After this thought-provoking experience, journey to the enchanting Mekong Delta, a verdant paradise renowned for its floating markets and idyllic waterways. Savor a delicious lunch as you immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. **Day 5: Free day to explore.** **Day 6: Visit Can Gio & Mangrove Forest + Lunch & Dinner** Once in Can Gio, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter playful monkeys in their natural habitat and visit a crocodile farm to learn about these fascinating creatures. A thrilling speedboat ride through the mangrove forest will take you to a hidden Vietnamese base, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history. As the day winds down, head to the beach for a chance to unwind and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. **Day 7: Visit Landmark 81 & Dinner On A Cruise** In the afternoon, ascend to new heights at the iconic Landmark 81, Vietnam’s tallest building. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city or indulge in some retail therapy at the building’s upscale shops. As the sun begins to set, prepare for a magical evening aboard a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. **Day 8: Check Out & Depart Ho Chi Minh City** Enjoy private transportation to the airport. **What's Included:** * **8 nights & 7 days:** Centrally located 4 or 5 star hotel. * **VIP Private Roundtrip Ground Airport Transfers:** Travel comfortably and directly to your hotel with our hassle-free transportation service. * **In-Destination Transportation:** We’ll provide convenient roundtrip ground transportation for all included activities and excursions. * **7 Breakfasts:** Fuel your adventures every morning. * **4 Lunches & 3 Dinners:** Indulge in select menus of a variety of delectable Vietnamese cuisines for lunch and dinner. * **Connect and Engage:** Engage in a Q&A, and get acquainted with our host during 2 warm welcome video conference calls scheduled before the retreat. **What's Not Included** * **Your round-trip flight/airfare** * **Snacks, Meals and drinks that are not mentioned** * **Alcoholic beverages** * **Visa** * **Ground transportation not mentioned** * **Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance** (highly recommended!) * **Tips and gratuities for meals and anything not mentioned in inclusions** * **Taxi transport and entrance fees** for any private, individual trips that are not included in the itinerary. * **Souvenirs, phone calls, spa services, taxis, ride shares, laundry, etc.** * **Items of Personal Nature.** * **Anything not mentioned in previous tabs.** For complete retreat details visit [Over 30 & Overseas](https://over30andoverseas.com/vietnam/). Join our New [Facebook Group](http://www.facebook.com/groups/over30andoverseas/) [Sign Up](https://over30andoverseas.com/meetup/) To Our Mailing List

**Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in!** **We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind.** **If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward at Prost Beer and Wine Cafe. Www.prostcafe.com** **Blacklick Woods Canopy Walk is at 6711 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg OH**

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