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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out grails events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the grails events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Grails Events Today
Join in-person Grails events happening right now
Disaster+Travel+Wilderness First Aid (In-Person) Certification Course
Hands-on learn how to save life & limb, when mired in the wilderness of an urban disaster zone, travel or rural area far from hospital, or natural area miles from an access point, during the critical minutes or hours before ambulance arrival. Come away with actual do-it-yourself care-giving skill and confidence, and 2-year SOLO certification. Counts as WFR Recertification, too. No prerequisites.
YOUR SPOT IS NOT RESERVED UNTIL YOU'VE COMPLETELY REGISTERED AT WWW.SOLOWFA.COM \***Spaces are limited. REGISTER: www.solowfa.com or 434.326.4697**
Can't make these dates? Check out more course locations and dates on our website.
WHO: Open to the general public, adults & teens with solid attention spans. Know your loved ones are safe wherever they are.
WHY: Mired in a disaster zone, travel or rural area far from a hospital, or natural area miles from an access point ... accidents, destructive weather, and terrorism happen, and all-too-often members of a group are not capable of dealing with the emergency. This leads to improper care of the patient, and endangers the entire group. Many recreational accidents are preventable, and improper care of trauma can compound even simple injuries. Very few first aid programs actually address the issues of providing emergency care in a setting where 911 is overwhelmed or not immediately reachable. In this course, classroom instruction and Q&A are interwoven with practical work and problem-solving exercises. Hands-on experience - a most powerful learning tool - during scenarios comprise \~50% of class.
TIMING: This is a 2-day class, Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am -7pm each day.
Fee: $295 (Earlybird)
Photograph Great Falls - VIRGINIA Side - Sat. May 30th
[https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm)
Be prepared as lately, the National Park has been charging $20 to enter.
**There are two sides to Great Falls National Park as it is divided by the Potomac River. For many, this is a must-see place since it is great for landscape photography. Of course, there are other genres like wildlife and birds such as great blue herons, turkey vultures, and others to photograph. The park does not open until 7:00 AM and WIFI is not available. Cell phone service is spotty. An eBird group surveys these wonderful birds every Sunday at 8:00 AM, except during the Christmas Count. Check the eBird list for updates.**
**The Group parks in the first lot just past the Visitor Center on the right and walks south toward the Visitor Center then continues down to the three overlooks. Access to the first overlook is not for the faint of heart since the terrain is rocky but it is worth it because it provides a clear view going upstream of the Potomac River. Sometimes, the Group photographs kayakers as they travel up and down the falls.**
**The second overlook has easier access to the river and the falls. The third overlook has a couple of sections that have views over the river. Kayakers and birds are visible from this overlook. Park visitors have been known to climb down the rocks to the river, but it is not recommended as it is dangerous. It has been reported that on average seven people drown in the Potomac River every year.**
**At the end of this field trip, the Group typically has breakfast at the Silver Diner in Tyson's Corner, 8101 Fletcher St, McLean, VA 22102.**
Bring Water, a Tripod, polarizer filter, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards
By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location, and I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.
Studio 151 Learning Lab: Photography Foundations Series — Lighting Basics
**Studio 151 Learning Lab: Photography Foundations Series — Lighting Basics**
Photography starts with light—but understanding how to actually *use* it is where most people get stuck.
This session is designed to simplify lighting in a way that makes sense for real-world shooting. Instead of a traditional lecture, we’ll learn through curated video content, pausing to break things down, ask questions, and connect it to real studio work.
You’ll see how lighting works, talk through it as a group, and then have the chance to explore it hands-on.
***
**What We’ll Cover**
* Natural light vs. studio light (and when to use each)
* Simple one-light setups that work
* How light direction shapes your image
* Creating clean, consistent results
***
**What to Expect**
* Guided video learning (watch + pause + discuss)
* Real-time breakdown of concepts in plain language
* Hands-on opportunities to experiment
* Open networking with other photographers
* Snacks will be available, bring a bagged lunch if you like!
***
**You’ll Leave With**
* A clearer understanding of how light works
* Simple setups you can try immediately
* More confidence in any shooting environment
***
Free to attend (limited spots)
Learn & Play Go-Stop, a Korean Card Game
**FOR BEGINNERS**
If you've ever seen Korean movies or shows, you may have seen characters play with small red cards decorated with flowers and animals. Those cards are called "hwatu" or flower cards. The most popular game played with hwatu is "Go-Stop".
Come to this next Hwatu Hangout (Iris Edition!), and learn how to play Go-Stop. It can take some time to orient yourself with the cards and rules, but once you do, there's no turning back. It's major fun.
**FOR EXPERIENCED PLAYERS**
No Tazza-style deck rigging and, most importantly, *no gambling*. We will play with plastic chips to raise the faux stakes, but that's it! If you'd like to skip the lesson/demo, then please arrive at 2p for game play.
\*\*\*
**ETIQUETTE**
Please update your RSVP at least 48 hours before the event to ensure that those on the waitlist have a chance to come. It's the nice thing to do!
**FOR REGULARS**
Thanks for coming back! Please email/DM me if you are planning to come. No need to sign up on meetup\~
\*\*\*
**THE PLAN**
• **1:00p - 1:10p**: Introductions
• **1:10p - 2:00p**: Learn how to play & demo game
• **2:00p - 3:30p**: Game play
• **3:30p - 4:00p:** Socialize
**THE LOCATION**
**The Board Room DC** \| Game Bar & Brewery
1737 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
**Parking:** Street parking
**Public Transportation:** Dupont Circle (Red line); 5 minute walk to the Board Room
\*\*\*
**Questions?** Send an email to hwatuhangout (at) gmail (dot) com.
Hope to see you there!
Eunice
Anime & Wine MHA Edition
Hey everyone. Anime & Wine has been doing events in the DC area for some time and I thought it would be a great experience to host an in-person meetup. It's a good place to meet and hang out with other people who are not only into anime but enjoy a nice glass of wine as well.
This is a ticketed event and tickets for this event usually sell out pretty fast so I'd suggest buying them as soon as you can. Early bird tickets are $10 and regular price tickets are $24.
Ticket link: https://posh.vip/e/anime-wine-dc-mha-night
Location: Event is just a short walk from the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro Station
Event synopsis from the event organizers below:
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
With one of our favorite's My Hero Academia ending this month come join us for an elevated anime experience as we say goodbye at Hall Pass in DC.
Wine by the glass, anime on a Saturday night
Ticket includes your drink
Meet us there.
With an eclectic mix of city pop and Japanese R&B thematically paired with anime for a visual, sonic and tasting experience.
Grails Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Rock Creek Trail and Capital Crescent Trail Loop
**Check back to see if the date or start time has changed. If chance of rain is > 29% or wind > 15 mph It may get cancelled/postponed**
**ROUTE DISTANCE**
The distance for this loop is \~20.3 miles +/- 767 ft. Ten miles down to Georgetown and ten miles back up the CCT to the starting point. The only way to shorten the distance is to stop somewhere before Georgetown and return the same way.
**TRAIL DETAILS**
In need of a relaxing escape from your usual habitat? These two trails are famous for their views of the Rock Creek and Potomac River. What can be more relaxing than the sound and sight of water cascading over rocks and watching sailboats? There are several sections that offer shade and cool breezes blowing across the trail. Although this loop is "flatish," there are more elevation changes compared to the Paint Branch and Rhode Island Trolley trails (the flatter trails we ride).
**Note 1:** We will need to bike 2.0 miles on neighborhood streets once we get off the Georgetown Branch Trail in Bethesda to get back to the starting point. There is no better option.
**Note 2:** There are a couple of street crossings. As long as you are not distracted and WAIT for the green light or for a clear break in traffic, you will be fine.
**SKILL LEVEL:** As long as you've biked at least 20 miles in the past two weeks, you should be able to complete this ride comfortably. We average a casual 9-15 mph on this route, and we add stops for hydration and socializing. Faster riders are welcome to go at their own pace and stop at the regroup spots (to wait for slower riders to catch up). Slower riders can go at their own pace and if they missed the 5-10 minute regroup stop, they can continue and use a nav app, if needed.
**PARKING & MEETUP SPOT**
Park at the Meadowbrook Park parking lot. Meet us in an oval formation by 11:00 for check-in and the icebreaker question. I'll post the question at least one day before so you can prepare!
Late arrivers should let the group know by posting a comment in the event. Otherwise, we assume you're a "no show."
Road, hybrid, and mountain tires will work. E-bike riders are welcome.
**RESTROOMS**
Located at the starting point, in Rock Creek Park going down to Georgetown, in Georgetown (the rest stop) on the C&O Canal path, and at retail shops in Bethesda.
**THE PLAN**
After check-in and the icebreaker question, we'll depart.
**1\. Ride southward on the Rock Creek Trail**
We'll start at Meadowbrook Local Park (the bathrooms may not be open but there are three outdoor loos). Then bike down to Georgetown (the Washington Harbor waterfront area). We'll stop for a break (optional).
**Regroup Spots:**
1. Intersection of Beach Drive and Broad Branch
2. Rock Creek Park Station at Beach Drive & Joyce Road. (Keryn will stop & wait if needed.)
3. National Zoo staff road intersection\*\* with the trail. (Keryn will stop & wait if needed.)
4. Pierce Mill (bathroom/ rest stop)
The RCT is mostly shady due to trees on the side of the trails. It hugs the Rock Creek from one end of the park to the other, providing scenic views and it often has breezes to cool bikers off. It is mostly flat. Only one noticeable hill when you get to Cathedral Ave (near to the National Zoo). It will take 45-65 minutes to bike.
**2\. Take a 30 to 60\-minute break in Georgetown \(Washington Harbor\)**. We plan on a 30-minute minimum stop for socializing/lunch/relaxing/cooling off). Some participants may want to return earlier, and some want to stay longer. We usually work out who’s staying vs going back earlier. Feel free to go on your own or join us for a group lunch (picnic or retail) if anyone offers.
**3\. Ride north on the CCT \(\~45 minutes\)**
Meet up at TBD. CCT is mostly flat and scenic, but it may have a lot of walkers to navigate around the last 3 miles.
**Regrouping spots:**
**1\. Thompson boat house**
2. **Fletcher's Cove Boat House** (5-10 min stop for socializing/drinking etc.
3. **Capital Cresent Tunnel** (Keryn will stop & wait if needed)
4. **Capital Crescent Trail entry (opposite Ourisman Honda)** 4760 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD.
5\. Street intersections on the way back to starting point\.
**BIKE RENTALS**
NA
**BIKE REPAIR**
NA - participants may volunteer to help
**RECOMMENDATIONS**
**Bring:** Water bottles, snacks, biking gloves, bike bell, bike lock, helmet visor, sunglasses, bike tube, pump, patch, first aid kit, mobile phone with nav app installed (e.g. Google maps, we use RidewithGPS). If you get leg cramps during or after a ride, take electrolytes before and during your ride (or add salt and magnesium to your water). A change of clothes for your ride home or a car seat cover to absorb sweat.
**Clothing:** Wear biking gloves and durable clothing so that if you do fall, your skin is protected. Avoid wearing all black, all grey, all dark brown, or all dark blue, which blends in with pavement, especially while riding through a shady segment. Consider wearing something lighter to help others notice you.
**REQUIREMENTS**
**Participants must wear tightly secured helmets when on their bike and carry a charged mobile phone.**
**Be proactive to avoid a fall/crash and minimize injury:**
\- Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers\. If the biker ahead of you suddenly stops\, you should be able to avoid hitting them\.
\- Don’t make stops on the trail\. Pull over to the side and use hand gestures to let people know you’re slowing down to make a stop\.
\- Yelling out “Passing on your left” and/or ringing a bike bell as you approach people ahead of you\, so they don’t inadvertently move in your line of travel\.
\- Slowing down to wait\, rather than speeding up when trying to pass people at the same time walkers/bikers are approaching you from the opposite direction\.
\- Avoid potholes and debris and slow down when approaching bumps
\- When approaching road crossings and iffy situations\, triple\-check before crossing and don’t let yourself be distracted by talking\, etc\.
\- Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers in case of a sudden stop
If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
**MEETUP POLICIES**
Participants should understand that biking is an inherently dangerous activity, and an accident could happen at any time. **Participation is at your own risk**.
An RSVP of “Yes” to an event is your digital signature acknowledging that you have read, understood, and agree with Meetup’s and MD Rail Trail Biking’s policies, esp. section 6 “Release” and section 8.2 ” Limitation of Liability,” found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/)
* Support the Coalition for the Capital Crescent Trail. Their [Donate](https://cctrail.nationbuilder.com/donate) page
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: Artemis II and Beyond
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Artemis II and Beyond,”** on how the recent space mission fits into long-term plans for the Moon, with Michael J. Neufeld, retired senior curator for the Space History Department of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-artemis-ii-beyond](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-artemis-ii-beyond) .]
NASA’s recent, spectacular Artemis II mission is a sign that the United States is serious about sending humans to the Moon again.
Gain an understanding of how Artemis II fits in both past and planned lunar missions with historian Michael Neufeld, who was lead curator of the Smithsonian’s Destination Moon exhibit. He has taught at Johns Hopkins, Colgate, and other universities, and is the author or editor of nine books dealing with the history of technology.
He’ll start by looking at the aftermath of the Apollo program of a half century ago and why it ended only four years after its first lunar mission. He’ll consider why no lasting lunar programs emerged from major announcements by two presidents, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, that astronauts would be going back to the Moon and on to Mars.
His vividly illustrated lecture will then explore how Artemis is a product of a human spaceflight program that has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. We’ll look at how collaboration with Europe, Canada and Japan became integral to the shuttle and International Space Station programs, and how the rise of new commercial space companies such as SpaceX has enabled NASA to buy both space services and space craft.
Both international and commercial partners are involved in the latest Moon efforts, with SpaceX and Blue Origin expected to supply the landers to take astronauts down to a planned base on the Moon’s South Pole. How soon will any of this happen? Probably not as quickly as NASA says, but the specter of a Chinese landing on the Moon by 2030 is one obvious reason to keep things moving along.
We’ll look at the sustainability of the Artemis space program for at least the next decade or so. You’ll emerge from the talk with no doubt that exciting days are ahead for space fans. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image: The Artemis II mission launch (NASA photo).
Cocktails & Coloring @ Ballston Market food market, Basement level
Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome.
You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers).
Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :)
I look forward to seeing and meeting you there!
***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.
Starfinder Society 1-21: Breaching the Wreck [3-4]
Thanks to extensive surveillance, tireless exploration, and intelligence from a recently rescued ally, First Seeker Sarmak has finally pinpointed a secret entrance to the mysterious Wreck of the Returned. If the Starfinders can gain access to this entry point and secure it without being caught, they can use this entrance as a foothold to launch two vital missions: a rescue mission to the conversion facility within the Wreck’s sublevels, and a direct assault on the being at the heart of the Wreck, Elovai.
It’s up to you to navigate underground tunnels through the Sloughscar Hills on Akiton to gain entry to the Wreck of the Returned and secure an entry point without being discovered!
A Starfinder Society Scenario designed for 3rd- through 4th-level characters, playable in 2-3 hours.
This is an adventure in the ongoing Invasion's Edge metaplot.
Written by Kyle T. Raes.
Scythe [Punchbowl Social, 1st Floor (Ballson, VA)]
Scythe is an engine-building game set in an alternate-history 1920s period. It is a time of farming and war, broken hearts and rusted gears, innovation and valor. Spirit Island --> Punchbowl Social, 1st Floor (Ballson, VA)
ASL Brunch on Sundays in Greenbelt
Join our ASL Brunch on Sundays in Greenbelt! All ASL users and learners are welcome.
Brunches are alternately held at two restaurants in Greenbelt, both in the same town plaza.
ODD WEEKS: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays, we meet at Cedars of Lebanon, 103 Centerway.
EVEN WEEKS: 2nd and 4th Sundays, we meet at New Deal Café,113 Centerway.
We are the Greenbelt ASL Community, a group of both Deaf and hearing people who hang out, chat about everyday goings on, trade stories, get to know each other better, and of course, enjoy food together. Many members use ASL as their primary language, several are interpreters or other fluent ASL users, while others are ASL learners who wish to improve their skills while making new friends.
Before or after brunch, you can visit the farmer's market and small coop grocery store in the plaza.
Please RSVP so we can contact you via email if needed.
Our group is on Facebook as Greenbelt ASL Community. Some longtime Brunch attendees don't mark their attendance here, so feel free to stop by even if you don't see others who have RSVP'd on Meet-up.
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee - Northside Social Falls Church
**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.**
Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a 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 Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations.
**Suggested 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?
**Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles**
1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
**Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human**
1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
**Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning**
1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
**Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche**
1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
**Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose**
1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
**Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection**
1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
**Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality**
1. What are you running out of time to say or do?
2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
**Suggested Questions: Society & Culture**
1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
**Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy**
1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
Grails Events Near You
Connect with your local Grails community
Cocoaheads
We have moved to guild.host. Look us up there.
https://guild.host/events/buckeye-cocoaheads-rcavwd
Psychic Fair
We will have our certified mediums available and you can receive 3 10-minute readings for $20.
To keep you safe, we will be following all CDC and Health Dept. guidelines at our psychic fair today. Sitters and readers required to wear a mask. We will maintain a minimum of 6 foot physical distance during readings. Please, if you can, bring your own portable chair to use during your readings.
Please note that we are at our wonderful new home at Unity of Columbus, 4211 Maize Road, Columbus, OH
BeComing Circle Initiates
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg
Instructor - Crow, HPS
Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange
RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642.
Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online.
Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only
Please come prepared for ritual.
Blessings ~ Crow
Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service
Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel.
Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger.
Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life.
Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.
Psychic Development Series II - Pueo Group
Private Group. Closed to the Public
Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy.
In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected.
The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve.
I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia
You Exist Too Much by Zaina Arafat
[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321)
Location: The Goat River South
219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Street parking is free on Sundays
[Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf)
Book summary:
On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.















![Starfinder Society 1-21: Breaching the Wreck [3-4]](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/0/c/7/highres_520172967.webp?w=640)
![Scythe [Punchbowl Social, 1st Floor (Ballson, VA)]](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/1/7/4/highres_495312660.webp?w=640)







