Habitat Restoration

Looking for a Sunday that feels like a soft slice of summer? Join us for a beautiful 12–15 km loop through the Darent Valley, where riverside paths, rolling green fields, and blooming lavender come together in one of Kent's most charming landscapes. This valley has been shaped by centuries of life and travel, and you feel it as soon as you step onto the trail. We'll pass beneath the towering arches of the Eynsford Viaduct, a Victorian engineering landmark that has carried trains across the valley since the 1860s. Further along, the route brushes past the historic grounds of Lullingstone Castle, a Tudor manor once visited by Henry VIII and home to the Hart Dyke family for over 500 years. From there, the path opens into the quiet lanes of Shoreham village and the purple shimmer of the lavender fields drifting across the hillsides. As we move through meadows, woodlands, and open countryside, the day settles into that easy summer rhythm where everything feels unhurried and lightly golden. It's the kind of walk where the scenery does the talking: the river winding beside us, the scent of lavender in the warm air, and the countryside unfolding in soft greens and purples — a Sunday that feels sun-warmed, peaceful, and just a little bit dreamy. We will head to a pub near the station when we finish for a pint or/and lunch. ## 📅 **Event Details** **Meeting Point:** Eynsford Station (Start / Finish) **Meeting Time:** 10:15 AM for 10:30 AM sharp start. **Distance:** approx. 12 to 15 km **Elevation:** \~300 m approx **Difficulty:** Moderate **Pace:** Steady **Estimated Finish:** Around 2 PM ## 🌿 **Route Highlights** * **Eynsford Viaduct Viewpoint** — one of Kent’s most photogenic spots, especially in summer light. * **Ancient woodland paths** around Ashen Bank, offering shade and cool forest air. * **Shoreham Village** — postcard‑perfect with its stone bridge and riverside charm. * **Darent Valley Path** — peaceful riverside walking with open fields and gentle breezes. * **Shoreham Lavender Fields** — with sweeping purple rows and great photo opportunities. * **Lullingstone Country Park** and **Castle** — meadows, woodlands, and a relaxed finish back toward Eynsford. This is a circular route full of **colour, greenery, and soft summer atmosphere** — the kind of day that feels wrapped in the easy warmth of summer countryside. ## 🎒 **What to Bring** * Comfortable hiking boots or sturdy shoes * At least **2L of water** * Packed snacks * Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) * Light layers — summer can still surprise * Good vibes and your best Sunday‑summer energy ## 📌 **Important Notes** * **Stay Together:** Please stay with or behind the hike leader to keep the group moving smoothly and regular catch ups. * **Respect the Area:** Parts of the route pass through the **Kent Downs National Landscape** — please respect wildlife, fields, and local guidelines. * **Group Rules:** Please read the “About Us” section before joining: [https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities](https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities?utm_source=copilot.com%20%22www.meetup.com%22) * **Safety:** This is a voluntary activity. You are responsible for your own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. No risk or service is inferred or accepted by the organiser. 📱 **If you’re lost or running late:** 07830 374 629

This week we're moving our usual Hyde Park jam session to Victoria Park, East London. Meet 1pm near The Pavillion and we'll figure out a place to play. Look for people with guitars. Feel free to bring other instruments too (nothing overpoweringly loud though please) We usually play a selection of pop / rock stuff, with a bit of jamming / improvisation. But whatever people wanna do, really. There may also be convivial eating, drinking and chat. If it's raining we'll have to call it off. As of Tuesday the forecast looks good though. Victoria Park is a bit of an experiment for us, I don't suppose anybody will mind us playing there but we'll see.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-drills-352/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-drills-352/) **⋆⋆⋆** Learn the basics at this fast-paced but relaxed one-day workshop. A perfect starter for all those annoying jobs around the house that you feel you should be able to tackle…if only you knew how. We know it’s frustrating to wait for it to be done and then get charged for it and we understand it can be a bit daunting to head into a wall with a power drill. Pick up the skills to hang curtains, blinds, and simple shelves on any wall. Learn to drill into wood, brick, tiles, or hollow walls with confidence. We will show you how to judge what is behind the walls before you drill. An enjoyable ‘ hands-on’ one-day workshop that covers many of the common aspects of basic DIY. If you have just bought your home and have realized it didn’t include a landlord to fix stuff, or just don’t want to rely on someone else, this day is for you. There is plenty of time to practice on several exercises over the day. The workshop also covers hanging pictures and heavier objects like mirrors, cupboards, and flat-screen TVs. You will learn how to hang a hook, fix a baton, and then a pair of level shelf brackets. Finish off the day learning how to fit shelves into awkward alcoves – a handy skill you can use to fit work surfaces too. Learn how to select the correct drill bit, wall fixing, and screw to secure things confidently. The day will also include a chance to fill small and medium holes in wood and walls to prepare your surfaces for painting. Along the way, we show you how to remove old wall fixings and what to do with the ones you can’t. This a fun fast day with plenty of tools to try and lots of advice on which tools to have in a basic toolkit. If you are thinking of upgrading your drill, you can test all of the ones we use and feel more knowledgeable about what you want to buy. This course is especially suitable if you are not handy or if you are able, but not that confident, about tackling small but important tasks in your home. We will also suggest how to tell if a task is appropriate for DIY or GSI (Get Someone In). You will take home a set of skills that will last a lifetime. All tools and materials included. Perfect for beginners.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/hand-caning-furniture-97/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/hand-caning-furniture-97/) **⋆⋆⋆** **Also known as Hand, Strand or Hole-to-Hole Caning.** KEY PROJECT: HAND CANED WOOD FRAME. Suitable for beginners. Enjoyable for all. One-day weekend workshop. 10am – 5pm. Ever seen a great chair in a junk shop but noticed that the caning that spans the seat is sadly coming away at the edges? Sometimes a chair that had been caned has had an unsightly slab of plywood tacked onto the broken seat. This is an opportunity to increase your upholstery know-how and bring a ‘once pretty’ seat up to scratch. Now you will be able to snap up a bargain and re-cane the seat yourself. The task is not as daunting as you think and can be done easily in a domestic setting with no specialist equipment- unless a washing-up bowl and some golf tees could be defined as such. This is a very old traditional craft, sometimes known as hand, strand or hole-to-hole caning. Specialist split cane is woven from side to side and fixed in place. During the one-day workshop, upholstery expert Netty Erw will inspire confidence while guiding you through the stages of intertwining the fine split canes. At the end of the day, you will have completed a square panel of traditional caning to take home with pride. The skills learnt during the day will enable you to embark on your own project at home. Netty has learned her skills from her clever aunt Rachael South, who in turn learned from her grandfather. We are thrilled to share in this generation's cascade of talent. All use of tools and materials supplied. We have a cane to buy after the course if you want to get started as soon as you get home. Beginners welcome. No previous experience in upholstery is required. If your chair is wobbly or scuffed – or even repainted, you can come to our ‘[Intro to Furniture Restoration](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/furniture-restoration-wood-revival/)‘ day course and learn how to make it look loved and valued again.

Pratica l'italiano passeggiando. > Ciao a tutti! > Se avete voglia di fare una chiacchierata in italiano in un modo rilassante ma anche dinamico, venite alla 'passeggiata italiana'. Si parte dalla stazione di Green Park e si passeggia facendo il giro del parco e chiacchierando del più e del meno. > Lo sapevate che secondo il filosofo greco Aristotele, passeggiare è un modo per stimolare l'intelletto e mettere in moto i nostri pensieri. > La combinazione movimento fisico e pratica linguistica favorisce la concentrazione e la memoria. > Parlare italiano mentre si passeggia può rendere l’apprendimento più piacevole e spontaneo. Inoltre, il continuo cambiamento dell'ambiente circostante offre sempre nuovi spunti di conversazione: possiamo descrivere e commentare ciò che vediamo e condividere osservazioni e idee.

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 13 miles (20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 155m • Hiking time: 5 to 5.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Charing Cross station. Meet in front of the ticket office - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/CharingCross.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:40am, leave 9am for the 9:15am train • Return: 6:03pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Discover the picturesque **Eden Valley** in the High Weald — one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval landscapes • Pass the **Medieval Manor House Penshurst Place**, once the hunting lodge of Henry VIII • Hike along the **Medway** river, through ancient woodlands and rolling countryside • Explore **Tonbridge**, a bustling medieval market town • Pass the impressive **11th-century Tonbridge Castle**, England’s finest example of a motte and bailey fortress 🥾 **Hike Description** Our journey begins in **Tonbridge**, where we get views of **Tonbridge Castle**. This formidable **Norman motte and bailey fortress**, built in the **11th century** beside the **River Medway**, provides a dramatic start to our day’s hike through one of **Kent’s most historic landscapes**. Our route takes us past the **village of Leigh** and towards **Penshurst Place**, an extraordinary **medieval manor** dating from **1341** and one of the most complete examples of **14th-century domestic architecture** in England. In **Tudor times** it became a **hunting lodge for Henry VIII**, and today it remains an evocative reminder of **England’s aristocratic past**. From here, we head into **Haysden Country Park**, where the trail opens into **lush meadows**, **tranquil woodlands, lakes, rivers** and the **gentle hills of the High Weald** — a landscape renowned for its **rich medieval character** and **ancient woodland**. Following a **sunken Saxon drovers’ lane**, we trace the footsteps of travellers who once crossed these lands centuries ago, before arriving back in **Tonbridge**, a **market town with medieval origins** and once again pass the remains of its **mighty 11th-century castle**. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-drills-352/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-drills-352/) **⋆⋆⋆** Learn the basics at this fast-paced but relaxed one-day workshop. A perfect starter for all those annoying jobs around the house that you feel you should be able to tackle…if only you knew how. We know it’s frustrating to wait for it to be done and then get charged for it and we understand it can be a bit daunting to head into a wall with a power drill. Pick up the skills to hang curtains, blinds, and simple shelves on any wall. Learn to drill into wood, brick, tiles, or hollow walls with confidence. We will show you how to judge what is behind the walls before you drill. An enjoyable ‘ hands-on’ one-day workshop that covers many of the common aspects of basic DIY. If you have just bought your home and have realized it didn’t include a landlord to fix stuff, or just don’t want to rely on someone else, this day is for you. There is plenty of time to practice on several exercises over the day. The workshop also covers hanging pictures and heavier objects like mirrors, cupboards, and flat-screen TVs. You will learn how to hang a hook, fix a baton, and then a pair of level shelf brackets. Finish off the day learning how to fit shelves into awkward alcoves – a handy skill you can use to fit work surfaces too. Learn how to select the correct drill bit, wall fixing, and screw to secure things confidently. The day will also include a chance to fill small and medium holes in wood and walls to prepare your surfaces for painting. Along the way, we show you how to remove old wall fixings and what to do with the ones you can’t. This a fun fast day with plenty of tools to try and lots of advice on which tools to have in a basic toolkit. If you are thinking of upgrading your drill, you can test all of the ones we use and feel more knowledgeable about what you want to buy. This course is especially suitable if you are not handy or if you are able, but not that confident, about tackling small but important tasks in your home. We will also suggest how to tell if a task is appropriate for DIY or GSI (Get Someone In). You will take home a set of skills that will last a lifetime. All tools and materials included. Perfect for beginners.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/hand-caning-furniture-97/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/hand-caning-furniture-97/) **⋆⋆⋆** **Also known as Hand, Strand or Hole-to-Hole Caning.** KEY PROJECT: HAND CANED WOOD FRAME. Suitable for beginners. Enjoyable for all. One-day weekend workshop. 10am – 5pm. Ever seen a great chair in a junk shop but noticed that the caning that spans the seat is sadly coming away at the edges? Sometimes a chair that had been caned has had an unsightly slab of plywood tacked onto the broken seat. This is an opportunity to increase your upholstery know-how and bring a ‘once pretty’ seat up to scratch. Now you will be able to snap up a bargain and re-cane the seat yourself. The task is not as daunting as you think and can be done easily in a domestic setting with no specialist equipment- unless a washing-up bowl and some golf tees could be defined as such. This is a very old traditional craft, sometimes known as hand, strand or hole-to-hole caning. Specialist split cane is woven from side to side and fixed in place. During the one-day workshop, upholstery expert Netty Erw will inspire confidence while guiding you through the stages of intertwining the fine split canes. At the end of the day, you will have completed a square panel of traditional caning to take home with pride. The skills learnt during the day will enable you to embark on your own project at home. Netty has learned her skills from her clever aunt Rachael South, who in turn learned from her grandfather. We are thrilled to share in this generation's cascade of talent. All use of tools and materials supplied. We have a cane to buy after the course if you want to get started as soon as you get home. Beginners welcome. No previous experience in upholstery is required. If your chair is wobbly or scuffed – or even repainted, you can come to our ‘[Intro to Furniture Restoration](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/furniture-restoration-wood-revival/)‘ day course and learn how to make it look loved and valued again.

**1 week of an exclusive, small-group ocean expedition for freedivers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts! If you love the ocean, this trip is for you.** Each year, the waters off South Africa’s Wild Coast transform into one of the planet’s most dramatic natural events. Billions of sardines migrate along the Wild Coast, making it one of the largest animal migrations on the planet. It attracts a diverse range of predators, from dolphins and sharks to whales and seabirds - all converging in a feeding spectacle few ever witness up close. The Sardine Run remains one of the most spectacular events on earth. Each day, ocean conditions, currents, and predator behavior determine what you’ll encounter. You’ll spend your days following the pulse of the sea - sometimes waiting, sometimes immersed in pure chaos and raw nature beauty. We partner with a trusted local dive operator with extensive experience running ocean expeditions along the Wild Coast. Their skilled skippers, dive crews, and wildlife spotters bring a deep understanding of the area’s conditions and marine life, ensuring safety, precision, and ethical wildlife encounters. 📅 Week 1: 5-12 July 2026, Week 2: 13-20 July 2026 📍Wild Coast, South Africa 👥 Max 7 guests · small group only 🤿 Open to freedivers, snorkelers & ocean enthusiasts **WHAT'S INCLUDED** ✅ 6 full days on the water ✅ 7 nights at Eco Swell Lodge (private en-suite chalet, ocean views) ✅ All meals · freediving gear · expert local crew ✅ Professional marine photography + 1 trip video ✅ Transport to/from Mthatha Airport ✅ Massage included 🙌 We will freedive & snorkel. Good swimming skills and comfort in the open ocean are what matter. 🎥 Watch my documentary from the last Sardine Run here: https://youtu.be/Wid5LHZGChg?si=HxeYvCBfHssgo0Wl 🌊 Full details & booking: Week 1: https://jmt.li/UIbXB6 Week 2: https://jmt.li/92nyMG DM me or comment below with any questions -happy to chat! 🐠

🕌 Walking in Woking: A short day trip to visit the first purpose built Mosque in the UK and Northern Europe (1889) + A walk to the Peace Gardens (Muslim soldiers burial ground for WWI/WW2), Horsell Common woodlands, River Wey path and Woking Town. 🌐 [Woking Mosque](https://shahjahanmosque.org.uk/the-mosque) 🟢 **WALK:** 📏13km (8 miles) 💓 Av. Pace: 4.8 km/h *[A number of roads cross the trail due to the layout of the town]* 📍 **Meeting Point:** Waterloo Station (opposite platform 3) ⌚Meet from **09:41am.** The trains departs at **10:00am** *[Arrives: 10:32am at Woking, Retrun train aiming for 15:40]* *✊ **Pace & Purpose:** Active Muslims is about focusing on the actual activity. These are **paced walks and hikes (not strolls)**, so please join us with that* ***[active mindset and purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reels/DBhPWpdIMKq/)*** *in mind.* **🚆 Travel & Tickets** All our regular walks & hikes are free to join. You are welcome to arrange your own travel or meet us at the destination station. **Option 1: Buy Your Own Ticket** We recommend buying on the day. Use a **Network Railcard** or a **GroupSave** discount where possible. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ **Option 2: Group Ticket (3+ People)** I can help purchase group tickets to save costs, **BUT you must arrive at the station before the platform is announced to collect your physical ticket.** To join this: *💳 [**PayPal Here (£10.55)**](https://paypal.me/mubasher001/10.55)* *↕️ or* *💳 [**Revolut Here (£10.55)**](https://revolut.me/mubashermalik?currency=GBP&amount=1055)* *Please send via **Friends & Family** and make sure no fee is charged.* ⏳**Deadline:** Saturday 9:01pm 📱 **Confirmation:** Message on **[WhatsApp](https://tinyurl.com/5n68255b)** with your **Meetup Name** once paid. *ℹ️ No refunds once tickets are bought.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Toilets: At Waterloo Station, Mosque/Woking Shopping Centre. **🎒 Essentials:** ***Gear: **Appropriate Footwear ** *Food/Water: **Packed lunch, snacks, and water. *** Tech: **Fully charged phone ** *Prayer: **If you are praying, please ensure you have** wudu **beforehand. 🚶‍♂️We will also do a bit of Walking in Woking, visit the town centre and also pass The Martian Tripod sculpture. H.G. Wells set the location for The War of the Worlds novel entirely in his hometown of Woking. It was first published in 1897. 🕌 The Shah Jahan Mosque (Woking Mosque) was built in 1889 as the first purpose build mosque in the UK and Northern Europe, build by Hungarian-British Orientalist and partly funded by Sultan Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal, as a place for students at the Oriental Institute in Woking to worship. It is a Grade I listed building. 💠 Peace Gardens: The original Woking Muslim Military Cemetery was opened in 1917 by the British Government to counteract German propaganda that Muslim Indian soldiers from the army were not being buried according to their religious rites. Muslim Indian soldiers connected with WW1 were buried there and a further 8 connected with WW2. It is a Grade II listed building. **📋 Attendance Policy:** When an event has a** waiting list**, priority is given to new joiners and those with a reliable attendance record - *previous "No-Shows" may be moved to the waitlist to ensure spots go to reliable attendees [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)]* ⛑️** Disclaimer**: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times. 🚦** [Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging **Follow us for updates: **🌐** [@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)**

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-basic-wood-joints-2-sundays-2/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-basic-wood-joints-2-sundays-2/) ⋆⋆⋆ A beginner's course that goes straight to the heart of woodworking. This five-week evening course will focus on timeless variations of wood joints that can be used for an endless amount of woodwork projects. Develop your skills with a saw, chisel and plane so that you can measure and mark out your work, cut, fit and glue joints accurately, ensuring your woodwork is strong, durable and darn good-looking. Learn these classic wood joints while you hone your making ability, and set free your ideas for furniture, box-making and all things fabulous. During the course, you will learn the uses and advantages of each joint as you construct a framework of sample joints. This project is a classic learning method. The **half-lap joint** can be used to make frames for pictures, perimeter door frames for panel or glass doors, dust dividers in cabinets and in many other situations. Because the half-lap does not add any thickness to the pieces of wood being joined, there are virtually no limitations for using it. The **mitred half** lap is an elegant yet strong corner joint, with its diagonal cut constructed with an internal half lap, The **tee halving** is a versatile joint which is often used in internal cabinet frames and simple framing and bracing. The **half dovetail** is a very strong type of joint because of the way the ‘tails’ and ‘pins’ are shaped. This shape makes it difficult to pull the joint apart and virtually impossible when glue is added. This type of joint is used in box constructions such as draws, jewellery boxes, cabinets and other pieces of furniture where strength is required. All use of tools and materials included. Perfect for beginners.

Hi everyone! We're Jared and Petria Walker, local real estate investors based in Columbus, Ohio, with a passion for short-term rentals and hospitality. We're looking to start a casual monthly Columbus-area meetup for entrepreneurs, investors, real estate professionals, and anyone interested in short-term rentals to share ideas, discuss market trends, learn from one another, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're just getting started or have years of experience, we'd love to connect, collaborate, and grow together. We believe some of the best opportunities begin with great conversations. See you soon!

(Note: RSVPing here on meetup does NOT reserve your seat. To do that, you’ll need to register at our website, [HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=Picnic-with-a-Purpose-Real-Estate-Networking-That-Actually-Pays-Off-14-7-7-2026).) Real estate is a proven wealth-builder—it has been for generations. But it’s not a solo sport. You need PEOPLE—who can advise you, partner with you, bring you deals, and buy deals from you. We’re all about bringing you the best, most active, most got-your-back people in Central Ohio, which is why our July meeting is all about real conversations with real investors at our annual Picnic with a Purpose. This is where: * Deals get discussed * Partnerships get formed * Funding relationships start * Problems get solved faster Bring your family. Build your network. Strengthen the relationships that actually move your business forward. Members and first-time guests are free. Returning guests are $35. Location is a local park and will be shared after registration. Space is limited, so you’ll want to secure your spot now. Remember, to actually reserve your seat, you have to go [HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=Picnic-with-a-Purpose-Real-Estate-Networking-That-Actually-Pays-Off-14-7-7-2026) and register on our website!

Backyard Conservation: Prairies Thursday, July 16, 2026 Want to find a way to reduce your lawn care costs and maintenance while providing habitat for Ohio pollinators, birds and other wildlife in a beautiful way? Putting in a backyard prairie may be for you! Come the evening of July 16th to learn how you can create one in ANY yard, large or small. You will visit our small manicured demo prairie suitable for small spaces and our large scale prairie areas at Infirmary Mound Park. FREE! Register by July 14 (or just show up!) https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/272/July-2026 6PM - 7:30PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

Gravel Gardens 101 with Native Plants Thursday, July 9, 2026 Learn how to design, install, and maintain a water-wise and low-maintenance gravel garden. We will cover plant selection (like drought-tolerant natives), proper gravel depth, and weed prevention. FREE! Register by July 7th at Licking Parks website https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/272/July-2026 Or just show up! (Registering will let you know of any date/time changes) 6PM - 7:30 PM

Gardening for Butterflies Talk and Walk with Butterfly Ridge Saturday, July 18, 2026 Join Chris Kline from Butterfly Ridge for a presentation on gardening for butterflies and a walking tour of Infirmary Mound Park, looking for butterflies, discussing their importance, and how to make butterfly-friendly improvements to residential landscapes. Meet at the James Bradley Center. Christopher Kline’s interest in butterflies began in 1997 when he began tagging Monarch butterflies in Indiana. Since 1997, he has tagged thousands of Monarchs, co-founded the Central Arizona Butterfly Association, and founded the Southwest Monarch Study. He has also served as the Butterfly Specialist at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus, Ohio. He now is the Director of Butterfly Ridge Butterfly Conservation Center in Rockbridge, Ohio where he and his wife have converted 21 acres of fields and forests into butterfly friendly habitats and have quintupled the butterfly population in the process. He has authored several books including A Field Guide to Tropical Butterflies of American Conservatories, Butterfly Gardening with Native Plants, Butterfly Rider, Moths of Butterfly Ridge, and the Beginner’s Guide to Mothing. Register today! lickingparkdistrict.com You can also drop in the day of. 10AM - 12PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park, 4351 Lancaster Rd in Granville, Ohio 43023 [Learn more here : https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/226/Upcoming-Programs-and-Events](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/226/Upcoming-Programs-and-Events) [More events in the park: ](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/226/Upcoming-Programs-and-Events) DIY Mosaic Stepping Stone - May 30 Gravel Gardens - June 4 Backyard Prairies - June 11 Rain Barrels - June 18 Moth Night - July 17 Butterfly Talk and Walk - July 18 More! Direct link to LPD activity catalog: https://secure.rec1.com/OH/licking-park-district-oh/catalog

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the Upper Arlington Library (Tremont Branch) in **Meeting Room A** to speak in Italian for 1 hour.

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831