Book Club

This is a weekly event for our community to meet in-person at the beautiful Yarra Bend forest for some inspiring mindful walking and movement. We do this movement practice in Fitzroy Gardens each weekday (7.30am) - but this event is for people who want to try our practice and meet our community but can't make it to inner Melbourne at 7.30am! Specifically the practice is called Good Vibrancy and is a fairly concise 30-minute practice involving a sequence of... \- Breath\-work for inspiration \- Movement for grace \- Compassion for love/gratitude \- Mindfulness for balance \- Visualisation for intention \- Qi Gong for abundance It is designed to align one's whole self (mind, body, spirit) around one's higher ideals - for example freedom and abundance. This not only feels amazing but also, over time, will make success a simple and straight-forward choice - because limitations, distractions and complications will become increasingly irrelevant. If this is your first time doing the practice you will likely feel highly elated from engaging with your fullest self (perhaps for the first time). This is not a bad thing it's just part of the process of starting a new practice - stick with it and you will feel grounded and refreshed. The visualisation part (Life Visualisation) involves reimagining your past "story" and future "script". So please have a general idea of your ideal life/future in mind and note that if you have unresolved trauma it's not a good time to delve into that aspect of your past. The compassion part of the practice (Heart Invocation) involves a short/silent/personal prayer (because this is an effective method of tuning into abundant, universal love) - if you don't want to pray you can sit this part out but please respect other peoples' choice to pray. Perhaps around 11.45am we will go to Studley Park Boathouse for lunch for about 45-min - if you are attending lunch please purchase a beverage or something to eat! Thanks

We will get-together at the KereKere cafe - at the community table just inside the cafe entrance. *This is a group for people with intermediate and advanced level French who are able to engage in a conversation en français. It is not suitable for beginners.* The cafe is close to the corner of Wellington Parade and Lansdowne St, East Melbourne in the Fitzroy Gardens. It takes about 5 minutes on Tram 75 from Flinders St Station, or 15 minute walk. Car parking around Fitzroy Gardens on Sundays now is $2 per hour with a 4 hour limit, Some parking is limited to 1 hour even on Sunday. And occasionally, if there is a game at the MCG for example there might not be much parking at all. Price: The event fee is $4.00 - cash necessary! . and please be sure you are a member of MyFrenchLife.org before attending reunion - merci https://www.MyFrenchLife.org. The event fees are transferred to MyFrenchLife contributing to the meetup platform - thank you. À bientôt ! Veronica and Daniel Réunion Hosts MyFrenchLife.org

Forget awkward small talk - let’s connect over dice rolls, card decks, and a bit of friendly competition. This is a relaxed, social evening for anyone who wants to meet new friends and have a laugh. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or someone who just wants to play something light and silly, there’ll be a mix of games for all levels. Come solo or bring a friend - either way you’ll leave with new connections (and maybe a new favourite game).

**Learn about what it takes to achieve your most ambitious goals with our January book club pick** We're bringing back the book club, and starting 2026 with a book that explores what it really takes for humans to perform at our best and achieve things that our minds might think are impossible. **About the book** Journalist, bestselling author and peak performance expert Steven Kotler decodes the secrets of those elite performers―athletes, artists, scientists, CEOs and more―who have changed our definition of the possible. This book teaches us how we can stretch far beyond our capabilities, making impossible dreams much more attainable for all of us. **What you'll gain** * Insights into the mindset, practices, and habits of the elite * A blueprint about what it takes to achieve peak performance in your own lives * An understanding of how to train your mind so you can push past your perceived limits * Inspirational stories and anecdotes from those who have achieved the impossible Purchase link: [[The Art of Impossible: A Peak Performance Primer](https://www.boomerangbooks.com.au/the-art-of-impossible-a-peak-performance-primer/steven-kotler/book_9780062977519.htm)] **Please note that this is a paid event to help cover the cost of meetup fees. Thank you for supporting Girl Who Boss and being part of a community that uplifts and inspires!** **Refund Policy** Kindly note that refunds cannot be provided for cancellations made less than 48 hours before the event. If you’re unable to attend, please reach out to one of the hosts to discuss alternative arrangements.

Hi everyone, It's that time of year again where we get together to share some food and celebrate Hogwatch with other Discworld fans at our annual Hogwatch picnic. Don't forget to make your offerings to the weather gods\* When: Sunday, the 11th of January at 2:00 PM Where: Princes Gardens at the picnic tables near the playground, 318122A Little Chapel St, Prahran VIC 3181 Bring: Food and drinks, a picnic blanket, plates, cutlery, napkins, etc. Weather protection (sunscreen, umbrella, jacket). It's Melbourne any weather is possible. \*We will have a backup location nearby in case of bad weather.

Good Vibrancy is a simple 45-minute routine for universal love based on the world's great spiritual traditions - adapted to optimise for freedom, abundance and prosperity. It is based on the unique personal practice I have developed doing approximately 1,000 hours of self-directed meditation in recent years (and many more hours of contemplation). \*\*\*\*\* **7.30am: Good Vibrancy (45-min)** The morning routine is done standing up and is a sequence of 6 parts: **1\. Spirit Breathing** \- 5 minutes of moving breath\-work for inspiration \- Balance yin\-yang\, asking\-receiving **2\. Active Sensation** \- 10 minutes of mindful movement for grace \- Develop effortless confidence and presence **3\. Heart Invocation** \- 10 minutes of compassion and gratitude \(\+ optional prayer\) \- Open your heart to giving generously and appreciating what you have **4\. Attentive Release** \- 10 minutes of standing meditation with letting go \- Let your mind settle\, grounding itself in a neutral posture **5\. Life Visualisation** \- 5\-10 minutes visualising the past \(story\) and future \(script\) \- Feel that your past is in fact perfect just as it was and your destined success is drawing you effortlessly in closer each day **6\. Energy Sublimation** \- 5\-10 minutes of energy\-work \- Invoke divine inspiration and connect with your inner king/queen \*\*\*\*\* **8.15am: Quick Coffee/Breakfast at KereKere Green (optional)** At around 8.15am we will finish the practice. Part of the reason for meeting in-real-life in a park as a group is to meet other people and get off the computer screens etc! That's why we invite people to have a quick 15-min coffee and chat at the nearby cafe (KereKere Green). \*\*\*\*\* Our Melbourne community connects in person to do the practice and have brunch on the weekend... \- South Melbourne beach on Saturdays 10am \- Yarra Bend forest on Sundays 10am

Like to start our year hanging with nature/forest bathing, walk, looking at arts/NGV and in person conversation/dreams. Please have good walking shoes, bottle of water (predict cooler weather). We will stop often to group chat in a good sitting areas.

Instead of having coffee while watching Netflix, we’re coming together as a community, connecting in person, sharing tips, providing support wherever we can AND having coffee together ☕. * **What We’re About** You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with, so join us — and be part of a community that rises above circumstances and creates opportunities. Inspire and be inspired by those who make things happen. It's a relaxed, organic space to connect with like-minded people and network—genuinely talking, learning from each other, and connecting over shared interests. * **What to Expect** Casual Meetups: We gather semi-regularly at a local café to chat about everything from stepping outside your comfort zone to business ideas, creative projects, and building a life aligned with your purpose. It’s relaxed, easy, and welcoming—no need to have anything “figured out.” An Easy-Going Space: We keep things simple and low-pressure. Once everyone arrives, we ease in with some light conversation and naturally break into smaller groups. Networking: Feel free to introduce yourself or let people know what you're working on if you feel like it. And if anyone wants to quickly shout out what they’re working on or looking for before we settle in, go for it—it’s a great way to spark new conversations. * **Host Support** If you’d like a one-on-one chat with me about your business, just tap me on the shoulder. I’ll be floating around and happy to make time for you. **Quick note for the day:** With free public transport this summer, taking the bus or tram might be even more convenient than driving. We might go for a walk in the Fitzroy Gardens if the weather isn't too crazy. Just remember to wear comfy shoes :)

Please join us this Sunday as we explore whether we can trust our senses and perception. This session will be moderated by Anthony. We will meet at the **CAPTAIN MELVILLE**, 34 Franklin St in Melbourne CBD, at 2.00pm for 2.15pm start sharp. There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background; all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared have your own assumptions challenged! Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve merely as a springboard towards a deeper discussion in waters unknown... Some points and questions to consider before the event: * What does it mean to “trust” our senses—reliability, accuracy, usefulness, or something else? * Could two people experience the same object but perceive it differently—and both be correct? * Can we distinguish illusion from reality without relying on our senses? * What do neuroscience and psychology suggest about the reliability of perception? * What do illusions, hallucinations, and mirages tell us about sensory perception? * If our senses sometimes deceive us, does that mean they are fundamentally unreliable? * Is perception passive reception or active construction by the mind? * Do we ever experience the world directly, or always through interpretation? * Are we aware of external objects themselves, or only of our perceptions of them? * Why does Kant argue that we can never know the noumenal world (things-in-themselves)? Hope to see you there!

🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience** Many of you have been asking about structured events and if I’d ever bring them back. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.** Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. 💫 **What to Expect** This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer. It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe. Expect: * A cosy, comfortable venue * A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around * A series of guided one-on-one conversations * A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself * This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/find-your-personality-match-make-friends-limited-spots-tickets-1978359240745?aff=oddtdtcreator 🧭 **Before the Event** Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**. 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. 🌿 **Come Join Us** If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you. A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat. RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.

**Our January novel is: Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan** **This month's featured novel is a 20th-century biographical fiction, coming-of-age, historical romance, women’s fiction, world literature, student biography, heartfelt, magic, and feel-good novel. The book is 311 pages in print and 7 hours and 8 minutes on audiobook.** 1950: Margaret Devonshire (Megs) is a seventeen-year-old student of mathematics and physics at Oxford University. When her beloved eight-year-old brother asks Megs if Narnia is real, logical Megs tells him it's just a book for children, and certainly not true. Homebound due to his illness, and remaining fixated on his favorite books, George presses her to ask the author of the recently released novel The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe a question: "Where did Narnia come from?" Despite her fear about approaching the famous author, who is a professor at her school, Megs soon finds herself taking tea with C. S. Lewis and his own brother Warnie, begging them for answers. Rather than directly telling her where Narnia came from, Lewis encourages Megs to form her own conclusion as he shares the little-known stories from his own life that led to his inspiration. As she takes these stories home to George, the little boy travels farther in his imagination than he ever could in real life. After holding so tightly to logic and reason, her brother's request leads Megs to absorb a more profound truth: "The way stories change us can't be explained. It can only be felt. Like love."

If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, working with yarn, this is the group for you. Meet new friends, bring your projects, learn from others.
We normally meet a few times a month during the week from 6-8pm. We will occasionally meet on weekends during daytime hours.

If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, working with yarn, this is the group for you. Meet new friends, bring your projects, learn from others.
We normally meet a few times a month during the week from 6-8pm. We will occasionally meet on weekends during daytime hours.

**Our February novel is: Julia by Sandra Newman** **This month is a classic, dystopian, fiction, literary fiction, women’s fiction, and science fiction novel. The book is 394 pages in print and 14 hours and 20 minutes on audiobook.** **An imaginative, feminist, and brilliantly relevant-to-today retelling of Orwell’s 1984, from the point of view of Winston Smith’s lover, Julia, by critically acclaimed novelist Sandra Newman.** Julia Worthing is a mechanic, working in the Fiction Department at the Ministry of Truth. It’s 1984, and Britain (now called Airstrip One) has long been absorbed into the larger trans-Atlantic nation of Oceania. Oceania has been at war for as long as anyone can remember, and is ruled by an ultra-totalitarian Party, whose leader is a quasi-mythical figure called Big Brother. In short, everything about this world is as it is in Orwell’s 1984. All her life, Julia has known only Oceania, and, until she meets Winston Smith, she has never imagined anything else. She is an ideal citizen: cheerfully cynical, always ready with a bribe, piously repeating every political slogan while believing in nothing. She routinely breaks the rules, but also collaborates with the regime when necessary. Everyone likes Julia. Then one day she finds herself walking toward Winston Smith in a corridor and impulsively slips him a note, setting in motion the devastating, unforgettable events of the classic story. Julia takes us on a surprising journey through Orwell’s now-iconic dystopia, with twists that reveal unexpected sides not only to Julia, but to other familiar figures in the 1984 universe. This unique perspective lays bare our own world in haunting and provocative ways, just as the original did almost seventy-five years ago.

I don't usually pick romance but I really wanted to do a Hanukkah book. It's a bit on the longer side but hopefully a quick read. The library only has 5 audiobooks so please try to remember to "release it" when you're done. Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3503238](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3503238) Location: The Goat Riversouth [219 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215](https://www.google.com/maps?q=219%20South%20High%20Street%2C%20Columbus%2C%20Ohio%2043215%2C%20United%20States) [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: Rachel Rubenstein-Goldblatt is a nice Jewish girl with a shameful secret: she loves Christmas. For a decade she’s hidden her career as a Christmas romance novelist from her family. Her talent has made her a bestseller even as her chronic illness has always kept the kind of love she writes about out of reach. But when her diversity-conscious publisher insists she write a Hanukkah romance, her well of inspiration suddenly runs dry. Hanukkah’s not magical. It’s not merry. It’s not *Christmas*. Desperate not to lose her contract, Rachel’s determined to find her muse at the Matzah Ball, a Jewish music celebration on the last night of Hanukkah, even if it means working with her summer camp archenemy—Jacob Greenberg. Though Rachel and Jacob haven’t seen each other since they were kids, their grudge still glows brighter than a menorah. But as they spend more time together, Rachel finds herself drawn to Hanukkah—and Jacob—in a way she never expected. Maybe this holiday of lights will be the spark she needed to set her heart ablaze.