Long Distance Walking

We will start a walk on Sunday Jan 18th at 8:30am at the Arlington Central Library. We'll meet at the front steps of the library and walk in the neighborhood and on the trails. Kids in strollers and well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome. We estimate the walk will be 60-90 minutes but if you need to leave earlier please just let someone else know. *Your RSVP to this Meetup is your digital attestation & signature that you agree to: RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS, the host and all participants of the event, from any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any LOSS/ INJURY, DISABILITY, OR DEATH I may suffer, to person or property, to the fullest extent permitted by law.*

Does it feel like the world is ending? Stop doomscrolling and try some vigorous outdoor activity! We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, January 18 to learn about nature and remove invasive plants from everyone's favorite urban island. Meet us at the entrance to the bridge (on the parking lot side, look for the sign) at 10:00 and bring your garden gloves and loppers/pruners if you have them. If not, we can provide gloves and tools. Wear long sleeves and pants and don't forget a water bottle. We will have tasks ranging from easy (cutting English ivy and honeysuckle vines from trees) to hard (sawing down bush honeysuckle). Parking at TRI can be tight if it's a pretty day. When the parking lot is full, you can park in Rosslyn and take the trail down. If you can bike or walk or take public transit, that's wonderful. We'll see you there! Erica, Stephanie, and Heidi P.S. If you can't wait until then to RIP (Remove Invasive Plants!), go here to find more volunteer opportunities in Arlington parks: [Volunteer to Restore Native Habitat – Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (armn.org)](https://armn.org/volunteer-opportunities/)

One of Adventuring's quirkier traditions is a trek on some stretch of the sprawling Gettysburg Battlefield in mid-January, during what statistically should be the coldest time of year. The secret to keeping warm is to maintain an invigorating pace, with fewer and shorter interpretive stops to discuss the events of July 1863. Plus, we always wind up our day by warming up in a cheerful local tavern with suitable refreshments, alcoholic or otherwise. The advantage we derive by traipsing around the battlefield at such a seemingly inauspicious time is that we can see and appreciate things normally blocked to view when the leaves are out. This year, our itinerary will focus on parts of the battlefield involved with Pickett's Charge, perhaps the most spectacular debacle in American military history. We will hike through segments of both Union and Confederate lines and wind up marching in the very footsteps of the brave but doomed Rebels charging across open fields into the maws of the Army of the Potomac. Our story climaxes with perhaps the most heavily witnessed and recorded same-sex kiss in the entire Civil War. Afterwards we shall repair for recuperation and refreshments at an appropriate town watering hole. Total length of our easy-to-moderate loop hike should not exceed 6 miles, with deceptively little elevation gain over rolling and muddy and/or icy terrain. Bring beverages, lunch and sturdy winter-worthy footwear, and dress in layers. Carpool passengers should pay their drivers $15, and everyone will pay the $5 Adventuring trip fee, cash or Venmo. There will be a pit stop en route at a Sheetz for those wishing to draw rations there. We will gather to form our carpool at 9 a.m. on the Sunday of the MLK Birthday weekend in the Kiss & Ride lot of the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station and should return by 6 p.m. Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route. Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.

Freedom Plaza is currently closed for construction, so we are shifting the starting line. We will meet at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and 14th Street NW, right outside the WWI Pershing Memorial. This 11.6-mile intermediate route will be lead by Big Mike, and offers a mix of challenging climbs, technical neighborhood skating, and smooth trail flow. The Details • Meeting Point: Corner of Pennsylvania Ave and 14th St NW • Meetup Time: 11:00 AM • Roll-out Time: 11:10 AM • Distance: 11.6 Miles • Elevation Gain: 420 Feet • Level: Intermediate (Urban hills and navigation required) Weather Forecast Expect chilly, winter conditions. It will be partly sunny with a high near 34°F and a SLIGHT chance of light snow flurries. Wind will be coming from the northwest at about 6 mph. Please dress appropriately and bring water. Safety Requirements • Helmets are mandatory for this skate. \* Wrist guards are highly recommended, as they provide critical protection during urban falls. • Knee and elbow pads are suggested for additional safety on technical sections and descents. • Everyone skates at their own risk! The Route [https://onthegomap.com/s/dmo62ogu](https://onthegomap.com/s/dmo62ogu?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExRFRPYXYyN1c5cDVVOUs2S3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7I1m6gHZ0B-dDKDrmOd08DtpVod6XE7rBmVCNG_OPX3q1SvRUprjVXOEb0Xw_aem_dkj8WoZZhPrcQ9ald0S1rA) • The Climb: We begin with a steady ascent up New Hampshire Avenue, carving through the energy of Dupont Circle. • The Meander: A technical, scenic flow through the historic streets of LeDroit Park. • The Trail: A fast, car-free stretch on the Metropolitan Branch Trail to find your stride. • The Finish: A final loop through the architecture of Capitol Hill and across the National Mall. For the most up to date details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you Sunday!

This will be part of an ongoing series in which we read through and discuss the Ra Law of One Materials. If you would like to join and missed prior sessions, please just reach out to us if you'd like to learn what lesson we will be starting with during this session. Over a 4 yr period in the early 80's, 3 people studying channeling and spiritual phenomena, over many decades, encountered a 6 density being, Ra. Ra comes through as a messenger of the Law of One with teachings emphasizing the fundamental unity in all of existence. Through a Q&A format, Ra provided information on the purpose of humanity with great insights and tools to help us discover purpose and to help the human race evolve. We now feel it is time to share this info with our community as these materials are a great way to get clear insight on so many psychological, philosophical and spiritual happenings. This series will continue on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month. We will be recording these so if you miss a session there are multiple ways to catch up. Space is limited so a RSVP is required. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile driveway into the woods. you will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) as to not stir any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway so it's important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. COST: To help make this affordable to all, we have an offering range of $15-$25. If you would like to contribute in another way, please let us know. With Love and Gratitude

The parking lot fills up quickly so make sure to arrive early. Meeting point - https://maps.app.goo.gl/jdRjxPyVEmR45BxDA Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/great-falls-park-from-difficult-run 4.3mi Length 393ft Elevation gain Loop The parking lot fills up quickly so make sure to arrive early. A beautiful walk-in route to Great Falls Park along Difficult Run provides great views all along the way. A great loop for hikers that are looking for a little more than a gentle walking path. If you go clockwise, you can enjoy walking towards the Great Falls overlooks.

**This short & sweet \~2mile moderate loop has some fallen trees & thorns.** Pace: 2mph. The trek explores hidden trails of High Ridge park which were/ are used for bouldering\* & hunting during the Winter season. The circuit begins on pavement, showcasing all of High Ridge parks recreational offerings. After a gander by a Gazebo, the pavement ends as the trek transitions to 'off-trail' via a DIRE DESCENT. From here the hike parallels the Patuxent River alongside occasional rocky outcroppings that lead to a steep yet acute ascent. The trek then meanders through some dead, overgrown vegetation that reveals a spur trail which hides "the boulder"-- unfortunately this is now inaccessible due to a massive fallen Tree. Latter of the circuit wanders about the woodland, snaking through the scenery before crossing a tiny rivulet, then observing an uprooted tree. A short spur to forgotten farm equipment follows. The hike concludes traversing over a benign 'ROOT-BRIDGE', egressing back to the pavement. **Post-social Lunch @Jailbreak Brew/ Foodworks [[location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cxyt4hZjhLLZABes7) \| [menu](https://jailbreakbrewing.com/foodworks/)]** NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [MAP](https://www.howardcountymd.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/High%20Ride%20Park%20Map.pdf) \| Boots advised; Trek pole\(s\) friendly\.\.\. Restroom on\-site\. 2\. \*For Bouldering interests at this setting: read this [6page pdf.](https://mdguides.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/high-ridge-bouldering.pdf) 3\. This hike was previously canceled; those who RSVP'd before as well as waitlisted attendees with good attendance history may get priority sign\-up\. A 'yes/ attending' RSVP is your digital signature that you've read, understood, & agreed to the [Liability Wavier hyperlinked here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/11SKNnO8e53UeSwvOZ58LPsMhRo1rTWat/view).

Higher Grounds – Del Ray is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create 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 Del Ray 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?

New year ✨️ try a new dance! The world famous instructor from Brazil Leticia Castro is here in DC to share her Lambada passion. This class will enchant you. Suitable for beginners and for folks familiar with other Brazilian dances. Leticia expertly leads this class to introduce you to Lambada! $15 Comfortable shoes suggested

Meeting in the big room at George Mason Library in Annandale, VA, for a get-together to celebrate this Meetup group being 11 years old! We will have food and drink. Bring your favorite prints (2 max and any size) that you took in 2025, and bonus points if they were taken at a Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup. This year we will have three prizes: for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Please review the Meeting Room Terms & Conditions. Only light refreshments, such as granola bars and bottled water, are permitted. Additionally, the meeting room must be cleared no later than 5:55 p.m. Users are responsible for room setup, including arrangement of tables and chairs, and cleanup, including returning furniture to its original placement. Setup/cleanup time should be included in the reservation. Groups are expected to leave rooms in an orderly condition promptly at the conclusion of the reserved time.

Capoeira (capo-way-ra) is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that is unlike any other martial art. Capoeira incorporates flowing movements with kicks, dodges, and some acrobatics. It is often mistaken for a dance for those reasons. Since it’s origins in the 17th century, it has evolved from a secret fighting practice into an art emphasizing self-expression and community celebration. It is great for the body and mind! In addition to gaining strength and flexibility in class, students learn about Brazilian culture, history, and language (Portuguese). On November 26, 2014 capoeira was granted a special protected status as "intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. No need to have a Capoeira background to join this class, just an open mind to try out a new way to move! Beginners welcome. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Join fellow members of the Virginia Women's Travel Group at the DC Travel & Adventure Show. Meet a new travel buddy to explore the show with. The DC Travel & Adventure show is being held at the Washington, DC Convention Center. We'll meet directly outside the show (Hall C). Attendees are responsible for purchasing their own show tickets. **By Metro:** The Convention Center sits atop the **Mt. Vernon Square/7th Street-Convention Center station,** served by Metro's Green and Yellow lines. Alternatively, take the Red Line to the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station, which is a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

We'll hike about 2.5 miles on the Scioto Audobon Trail and can extend the distance as the group prefers. Will ask one of the faster regulars to take the front (about 16 minute miles) and I’ll bring up the rear at about 19 minute miles. No one left behind. Those who wish can join for lunch at Nocterra after the hike. Note: There is a $5 gift card on the Nocterra site if you provide your email and birthdate.

**Caller: Dan Kappus** **Band: Trillium** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.