Buying a Home

**Book Club: [The Ten Thousand Doors of January](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43521657-the-ten-thousand-doors-of-january) by Alix E. Harrow** Step into a world where stories become portals and doors are more than thresholds—they are invitations. In *The Ten Thousand Doors of January*, Alix E. Harrow weaves a gorgeously imagined tale of discovery, identity, and the radical power of possibility. At its heart is January Scaller, a curious, lonely girl living at the turn of the 20th century, whose life changes when she discovers a mysterious book that hints at other worlds—and at the truth of her own origins. As January follows the book’s breadcrumbs across hidden histories and forgotten doorways, she must navigate forces determined to keep the worlds closed and her story contained. Harrow blends fantasy, folklore, and historical fiction to explore what it means to belong, to resist, and to step boldly into one’s own narrative. With lush prose and a sense of wonder thrumming through every page, *The Ten Thousand Doors of January* celebrates the transformative power of stories—how they shape us, free us, and carry us to places we never imagined possible. This is a novel about opening doors: between worlds, between people, and within ourselves. **Discussion Points:** * How does Harrow use the metaphor of doors to explore freedom, change, and self-discovery? * In what ways does January’s coming-of-age journey challenge the constraints—social, familial, and fantastical—placed upon her? * How do stories and written texts function as both guides and catalysts throughout the novel? * What do the relationships in the book reveal about loyalty, belonging, and chosen family? * How does the novel’s blend of history and fantasy shape your understanding of “other worlds”—both literal and metaphorical?

Enjoy brunch at this converted church

Meet at Gardenvale Station in Martin Street. We'll do the usual 1-hour round-trip walk to the beach and back ending up at the lovely Sons of Mary Cafe for a coffee & chat. I can be reached on 0409 219 524 if you have any trouble finding us or are running late. Cheers Gillian http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/b/8/f/600_451059823.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/b/9/4/600_451059828.jpeg Here is the Link to Sons of Mary [www.sonsofmary.com.au](www.sonsofmary.com.au)

Financial and Individual Freedom is the goal of this group. Education and discussion for people that are interested in how Bitcoin fits into a changing world - economics, trust, legacy, resilience and personal sovereignty. No charts, no jargon, no crypto hype. Just people who care about what comes next. We are not financial advisors and there will be NO financial advice. This is a non-technical look at Bitcoin for everyday people who are curious about money, freedom and building a better future. Whether you’re new to Bitcoin or have already started your journey, this group is for anyone who wants real conversations about why Bitcoin matters - not just the price.

**Struggling with study or learning? You’re not alone.** This meetup suits people at all levels of study skill. Too many children, teenagers, and adults find studying difficult—not because they lack ability, but because they were never taught **how to learn**. This meetup introduces the basics of **Study Technology**—a practical, proven approach that shows how learning really works and how to overcome common study barriers. It applies to children, teens (and parents), teachers, and adults alike. You’ll discover simple, effective methods to improve understanding, confidence, and performance—whether at school, work, or online. Teachers and parents often see rapid improvements in both behaviour and results. Yes, it *is* possible to improve study performance—in just **five easy steps**. If you can’t attend in person, online options are available. **Join us and learn how to study effectively—once and for all.** See you at the meetup, **Pam** When learning clicks, confidence follows.

**A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience** Created specifically for women who want to build **genuine friendships**, not just exchange small talk. ***Check out [Our Website](https://we-belong.com.au/ "https://we-belong.com.au/")*** As adults, making new friends isn’t easy. You might meet people, but it rarely goes deeper. Conversations stay surface-level, and meaningful connections feel hard to come by. This experience is designed to change that, by matching you with women you’re **genuinely** **compatible** with, based on personality and communication style. **What to Expect** This is **not** speed networking. And it’s not a big, overwhelming group mixer. It’s a curated, one-on-one experience where you’ll meet a small number of women who’ve been thoughtfully matched to you based on personality and vibe. You can expect: * A cosy, comfortable venue * A gently hosted structure so you’re never left feeling awkward or unsure * A series of guided one-on-one conversations * A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where you can be yourself It’s about friendship, connection, and finding women you naturally click with. Each conversation is designed to feel easy and natural, because the matching is done with compatibility in mind. (We cross-post on multiple platforms, so events are usually full.) **Before the Event** You’ll receive a **short personality test (you only need to take the test once)**. It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors. This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event. ### **Event Agenda** **2:50 PM** Arrive early for quick check-in **3:00 – 3:15pm** Get drinks & mingle **3:15 – 4:15pm** Round 1 & Round 2 conversations **4:15 – 4:30pm** Break + refresh your drinks **4:30 – 5:00pm** Round 3 **5:00pm** Event wraps up **Come Join Us** If you’re craving deeper conversations, meaningful friendships, and meeting women who truly *get* you — this experience is for you. A warm, intentional space created for connection, ease, and real conversation — whether it leads to a new best friend, a deeper social circle, or simply a genuinely lovely afternoon. ***Check out [Our Website](https://we-belong.com.au/ "https://we-belong.com.au/")*** **RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.**

We are heading to Fort Nepean - the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula via Public transport. This trip involves a one way shuttle bus in Port Sea ($12 - to be paid directly on the bus). Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20) via Trybooking: [https://www.trybooking.com/DJALO](https://www.trybooking.com/DJALO) Trybooking Tickets will be scanned at the meeting point. There are no refunds. Tickets will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date or transfer it to another person. Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date if the names on Trybooking and Meetup are the same. **Meeting point**: Let's meet infront of of Time Out Fed Square at 10:20 AM. We should be back in the city around 8:45 PM. We will have a 45 minute lunch break in Frankston. Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 Public Transport Cost (varies): Free Shuttle Bus (In Portsea): $12 Travel Time (One Way): Train: 1 hour Bus: 1 hour 45 mins We will walk from Portsea bus stop to Quarantine Station (20 mins) and then take shuttle bus to Fort Nepean. On the way back, you have an option to take the shuttle bus or walk around 5 km (1 hour and 30 min). Point Nepean is one of Victoria's beautiful natural landscapes. A special place with so much to see and discover. The park is located at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula, with outstanding coastal scenery and panoramic views of Bass Strait, the Rip and Port Phillip Bay. It has a rich history and played an important role in shaping the early settlement, quarantine and defence of Victoria. Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 43,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group – We’re here to make friends and share experiences, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers – You’re welcome to swap social media if you both agree, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 No advertising – Please don’t promote other events, groups, or businesses here. 😅 Don’t be clingy – Give people space to mingle and chat with others too. 🚗 No carpooling – For safety reasons and insurance coverage, we don’t allow carpooling or ride-sharing through the group. 💰 No sales pitches – That means no selling, MLMs, pyramid schemes, or “life-changing mentorships.” Keep it scam-free. By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

This month we are off to Brunswick for our monthly trivia. With a variety of beers on tap as well as an extensive menu (also catering to vegans) you’re sure to find something to your taste. Not sure about your trivia skills? You only need to know a couple of answers and rely heavily on your teammates for the rest. Why not jump onboard for a fun night night out and the chance to win a prize. Check out their menu below. https://www.cornisharms.com.au/menu-1 $20 non refundable deposit is required for this event and will be refunded on the night. The deposit will be required 48 hours from RSVPing to the event or you will be moved removed from the event. Please make payment to the following account only if you are on the going list. Please note the new bank details. BSB 013125 Account 150808654 Please let me know once payment is made. Please use your name and venue as reference. This is kind of important as I am collecting deposits for many events. And don't forget to check out our Facebook page. https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Community/Northside-Explorers-113121036867952/?__nodl&refsrc=https%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2Ffbrdr%2F274%2F113121036867952%2F&_rdr

**Understanding the Columbus Housing Market: Let’s Talk Downsizing for Seniors** Understanding the Market to Make Your Best Move Yet Thinking about downsizing or helping a parent prepare for a move? Join us for a friendly, educational seminar designed specifically for seniors in Central Ohio. We’ll break down what’s happening in today’s Columbus housing market, explore timing and planning for downsizing, and discuss easy ways to prepare a longtime home for sale—without overwhelm. You’ll also learn about low‑maintenance housing options, financial considerations, and simple steps to make your next move smooth and stress‑free. This is a relaxed, no‑pressure event where you can ask questions and get practical advice tailored to seniors and their families. Hosted by: Katie McCartney, Broker & Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES)

**THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO SNOW EMERGENCY!** **HAPPY HOUSE HUNTERS JOIN THE CENTRAL OHIO INVESTOR NETWORK** \* Time: 5 pm‎ - ‎8 pm‎ ‎ [Eastern Time] \* JANUARY 2026 ONLY: FOURTH Tuesday the 27th, then back to the regular schedule of third Tuesdays next month \* Where: Pastimes Pub at Grandview Yard, 775 Yard St. Columbus 43212 \* Description: Join Us for the Ultimate Real Estate Meet and Greet! Flip, Buy and Hold, Long-Term Rentals, Mid-Term Rentals & Short-Term B&B! Are you passionate about real estate investments or curious about the world of long-term rentals, mid-term rentals, or short-term rentals? Look no further because the "Happy House Hunters" and "The Inns and Outs of a B&B" invite you to come together with COIN for exciting monthly Meet and Greet events for all real estate investors! We look forward to seeing you there!

Join us online for REI 101: Managing the Renovations! Whether you're a newbie or looking to sharpen your skills, this event dives into the essentials of handling renovation projects like a pro. Get tips, tricks, and real-world advice to keep your fixes smooth and stress-free. Perfect for anyone wanting to boost their renovation game without the hassle! * Learn how to properly scope renovation projects before work begins to avoid surprises * Understand realistic budgets and timelines so renovations don’t spiral out of control * Get proven tips for managing contractors and holding them accountable * Identify the most common renovation mistakes that kill profits—and how to avoid them * Walk away with a simple framework to manage renovations efficiently, even as a beginner Register Here: [SIGN UP TODAY](https://links.eliteeventbuilder.com/widget/form/wSbrsstjtpMx77vSSif7?am_id=debbie5574)

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads**®**, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar