Memoir Writing

Hello Fellow Writers! We got some great news. **Toronto Writers Community** is having an Open Mic event (our 16th) on June 3rd at the **Tranzac Club** (**292 Brunswick Ave**). Let's make it count for our 16th Open Mic.Things are getting even warmer in Toronto and it's time to gather and share our work in the spirit of renewal and rebirth. Let me know either here on Meetup or through [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/torontowriterscommunity/) or the night of, if you would like to present. We can't wait to see you! Bring a friend or two or three and get ready for a night of sharing work and taking in the talent that Toronto has to offer. Feel free to read or to come and listen. Meet new people, get inspired. This is going to be a good one. The event starts at 6:30pm, ends at 9:30pm. At TRANZAC CLUB - 292 Brunswick Ave, On Thursday, June 3rd. Hope to see you there! As always, the event is free, but a donation bowl will be present.

We attend the **Griffin Poetry Prize** every year! *A superb literary night of prose!* https://griffinpoetryprize.com/ *The Griffin Poetry Prize has been acknowledging and encouraging poets for twenty-two years. At a time when censorship and attacks on a diverse array of writers are on the rise in many countries – including the United States – it’s heartening to see such a strong vote of confidence in poets coming from Canada. Poetry is not a minor art form; it is the crucible of human language.* Margaret Atwood, Founding Trustee **Tickets are $25 or $30,** with the purchase link below. Tickets have just gone on sale. Includes a lovely WINE reception. Any seat is a great seat. I am sitting in Orchestra, Row M. On Wednesday June 3rd-- The evening will include a selection of readings by some of the **world’s best poets,** including the five poets shortlisted for the **$130,000 Griffin Poetry Prize,** this year’s Lifetime Recognition Award recipient, and the Canadian First Book Prize winner. It will be a celebration of poetry not to be missed! A harvester of words at the highest level. Language artists! If you've **not** attended before--take a chance this year. You will experience nothing like it. This is our 8th year attending. **Ticket link--any seat is a great seat** https://www.rcmusic.com/events-and-performances/2026-griffin-poetry-prize-readings \-\-\-In 2023\, 2024\, 2025\-\-30\+ of us attended each year\. Your ticket also **includes** an anthology of poems by short-listed authors (worth $20 at book shop), and some wine! NOTE: the 6:00 pm start time (wine reception/yummy snacks) Plan ahead so you can get there in time. Arrive by 630pm.

🎤🎸 **Meetup: Live Band Karaoke at The Pilot – WednesdayJune 3!** 🎸🎤 It has been *way* too long since our last live band karaoke night… so we’re fixing that in style — at a **brand new venue**! Join us at **The Pilot** for an unforgettable night where YOU are the lead singer,[ ](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/live-band-karaoke-at-the-pilot-tickets-1982396541420)[backed by a full live band. ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-live-band-karaoke-at-the-pilot-tickets-1989063162463) [See the song list here and pick your tunes](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pOpn8YFCq7m2y6lluNDwCaztE61EogUxn0CVfD3eYqY/edit?pli=1&gid=0#gid=0) **NOTE - unfortunately this is not an accessible venue. Karaoke on second floor, no elevators.** Whether you’re ready to belt out a power ballad, rock some classic anthems, or just cheer on your fellow Meetup members, this is always one of our most fun and energetic events. **When you arrive, please be sure to check in with Nick so your attendance can be noted. He’ll be easy to find in his “Karaoke Mode On” t-shirt!** 🕖 **Meetup Time:** 7:15 PM 🚪 **Doors:** 7:30 PM 🎶 **Music Starts:** 8:00 PM Arrive early to make sure you can get your song in — the list fills up fast! This event is **free to attend**, but please support the venue by purchasing food and/or drinks. The Pilot has a great menu and solid drink options, so let’s show them some love for hosting us. 📍 Super convenient location close to **two subway lines**, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. You can: * 🎤 Sing your heart out with a live band behind you * 👏 Cheer on your fellow performers * 🍻 Hang out, socialize, and enjoy the atmosphere No pressure, no judgment — just a fun, supportive crowd and great live music energy. It’s been too long… let’s make this one legendary. Remember you can just show up too , if unsure of your schedule . **About the Group** This event is open to everyone — single, not single, shy, social, new in town or a long-time local. We're a group for people who love movies *and* making real connections. We also do walks, hikes, restaurants, arts & culture — come be part of it!

## BOOTCAMP FOR MEN – 4 WEEK MINI SERIES **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Evening **Location:** Mississauga Area - Details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 READ FULL DETAILS Do you ever feel misunderstood, unheard, or frustrated trying to handle difficult conversations? Do you struggle to express yourself clearly in relationships, at work, or during stressful situations? **Build Stronger Communication, Confidence & Real-Life Skills** If so, this practical **4-week in-person Bootcamp for Men** was created for you. This mini-series is designed to help men strengthen communication skills, emotional control, confidence, leadership habits, and problem-solving tools that can improve everyday life. Many men were never taught how to properly communicate, manage conflict, or express emotions in a healthy way. This program offers practical solutions in a respectful, supportive environment. *** ## HOW THE COURSE IS STRUCTURED: ### Weeks 1–3 Each session will begin with a **PowerPoint presentation** covering key life skills, strategies, and tools. This will be followed by a **team-building exercise** where participants can apply what they learned through interactive activities, group discussion, and real-life scenarios. This format helps men learn, practice, connect, and build confidence in a supportive setting. ### Week 4 The final session will be an **Open Forum / Real Talk Session** focused on reflection, discussion, and continued growth. *** ## WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: ### Week 1 – Communication Mastery * How to speak with clarity and confidence * How to say what you mean without being misunderstood * How to express yourself calmly under pressure * How to improve your presence and self-confidence * Team building exercise ### Week 2 – Listening & Understanding * How to become a stronger listener * How to understand what others are really saying * How to reduce arguments caused by assumptions * How to improve communication with family, relationships, co-workers, and friends * Team building exercise ### Week 3 – Conflict Resolution & Emotional Strength * How to stay calm during disagreements * How to handle criticism without anger or shutting down * How to navigate difficult conversations with confidence * How to problem solve instead of emotionally reacting ### Week 4 – Open Forum / Real Talk Session A guided open discussion where men can reflect on the course, ask questions, share personal struggles, challenges, and growth goals in a safe and respectful environment. Topics may include: * Relationships * Stress and pressure * Confidence issues * Communication struggles * Life direction and motivation * Emotional frustration and personal growth This final session is designed to create connection, accountability, and support. *** ## CONTINUED SUPPORT AFTER THE COURSE After completing the Bootcamp, participants will have the opportunity to join an **Online Men’s Support Group Community** where growth continues. This ongoing group can provide: * Monthly support meetings * Encouragement from like-minded men * Guidance through life challenges * A place to talk, grow, and move forward *** ## ✔ BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM: * Increased confidence * Better communication skills * Stronger relationships * Better decision-making * Improved emotional control * Reduced stress during conflict * Brotherhood and support *** ## WHO THIS IS FOR: * Men wanting personal growth * Men tired of being misunderstood * Men dealing with relationship struggles * Men wanting confidence and direction * Men who want stronger leadership skills * Men ready to improve their life *** ## DETAILS: **Facilitator:** Patricia Lavigne, Certified Life & Wellness Coach **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM **Location:** Mississauga Area - Full details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 *** ## LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE Small group setting for real conversations, practical learning, and support. ## TO REGISTER: Message me Bootcamp For Men directly or email: patricialavignecpc@gmail.com ## If you are ready to grow stronger mentally, emotionally, and socially—this is your opportunity. Join today. Patricia Lavigne Life & Emotional Wellness Coach 416-312-6983 patricialavignecpc@gmail.com

## BOOTCAMP FOR MEN – 4 WEEK MINI SERIES 🔥 **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Evening **Location:** Mississauga Area - Details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 READ FULL DETAILS Do you ever feel misunderstood, unheard, or frustrated trying to handle difficult conversations? Do you struggle to express yourself clearly in relationships, at work, or during stressful situations? **Build Stronger Communication, Confidence & Real-Life Skills** If so, this practical **4-week in-person Bootcamp for Men** was created for you. This mini-series is designed to help men strengthen communication skills, emotional control, confidence, leadership habits, and problem-solving tools that can improve everyday life. Many men were never taught how to properly communicate, manage conflict, or express emotions in a healthy way. This program offers practical solutions in a respectful, supportive environment. *** ## HOW THE COURSE IS STRUCTURED: ### Weeks 1–3 Each session will begin with a **PowerPoint presentation** covering key life skills, strategies, and tools. This will be followed by a **team-building exercise** where participants can apply what they learned through interactive activities, group discussion, and real-life scenarios. This format helps men learn, practice, connect, and build confidence in a supportive setting. ### Week 4 The final session will be an **Open Forum / Real Talk Session** focused on reflection, discussion, and continued growth. *** ## WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: ### Week 1 – Communication Mastery * How to speak with clarity and confidence * How to say what you mean without being misunderstood * How to express yourself calmly under pressure * How to improve your presence and self-confidence * Team building exercise ### Week 2 – Listening & Understanding * How to become a stronger listener * How to understand what others are really saying * How to reduce arguments caused by assumptions * How to improve communication with family, relationships, co-workers, and friends * Team building exercise ### Week 3 – Conflict Resolution & Emotional Strength * How to stay calm during disagreements * How to handle criticism without anger or shutting down * How to navigate difficult conversations with confidence * How to problem solve instead of emotionally reacting ### Week 4 – Open Forum / Real Talk Session A guided open discussion where men can reflect on the course, ask questions, share personal struggles, challenges, and growth goals in a safe and respectful environment. Topics may include: * Relationships * Stress and pressure * Confidence issues * Communication struggles * Life direction and motivation * Emotional frustration and personal growth This final session is designed to create connection, accountability, and support. *** ## CONTINUED SUPPORT AFTER THE COURSE After completing the Bootcamp, participants will have the opportunity to join an **Online Men’s Support Group Community** where growth continues. This ongoing group can provide: * Monthly support meetings * Encouragement from like-minded men * Guidance through life challenges * A place to talk, grow, and move forward *** ## ✔ BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM: * Increased confidence * Better communication skills * Stronger relationships * Better decision-making * Improved emotional control * Reduced stress during conflict * Brotherhood and support *** ## WHO THIS IS FOR: * Men wanting personal growth * Men tired of being misunderstood * Men dealing with relationship struggles * Men wanting confidence and direction * Men who want stronger leadership skills * Men ready to improve their life *** ## DETAILS: **Facilitator:** Patricia Lavigne, Certified Life & Wellness Coach **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM **Location:** Mississauga Area - Full details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 *** ## LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE Small group setting for real conversations, practical learning, and support. ## TO REGISTER: Message me BOOTCAMP FOR MEN directly or email: patricialavignecpc@gmail.com ## If you are ready to grow stronger mentally, emotionally, and socially—this is your opportunity. Join today. Patricia Lavigne Life & Emotional Wellness Coach 416-312-6983 patricialavignecpc@gmail.com

**Attention attendees!** **To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/9iu5ehdh) Warning: The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/9iu5ehdh)to purchase a registration ticket. The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events. **Startup Valley — Toronto** A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners. We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams. **What happens:** • 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners • Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions • Investors stay in the room before and after pitches • The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking • Attendance is limited to keep the room focused Designed for clear thinking, not noise. **Who you’ll meet:** * Startup founders * Angel investors and VC partners * Operators in marketing, sales, and tech * AI engineers * Local and international founders * AI Experts * Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom **Practical details** **For investors:** We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors. **To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform). Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early. Founders need your experienced view. **For pitching startups:** Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors. **After purchasing a ticket:** Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers. **Agenda** **19:00 – 19:30** **Registration** Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event. **19:30 – 20:30** **Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking** Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts. **20:40 – 21:20** **Startup Pitch Session** Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market. **21:20 – 22:00** **Chill & Networking** Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.

**Attention attendees!** **To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/9iu5ehdh) Warning: The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/9iu5ehdh)to purchase a registration ticket. The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events. **Startup Valley — Toronto** A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners. We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams. **What happens:** • 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners • Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions • Investors stay in the room before and after pitches • The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking • Attendance is limited to keep the room focused Designed for clear thinking, not noise. **Who you’ll meet:** * Startup founders * Angel investors and VC partners * Operators in marketing, sales, and tech * AI engineers * Local and international founders * AI Experts * Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom **Practical details** **For investors:** We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors. **To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform). Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early. Founders need your experienced view. **For pitching startups:** Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors. **After purchasing a ticket:** Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers. **Agenda** **19:00 – 19:30** **Registration** Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event. **19:30 – 20:30** **Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking** Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts. **20:40 – 21:20** **Startup Pitch Session** Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market. **21:20 – 22:00** **Chill & Networking** Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

We are now at **Yonge Sheppard Centre** in the **food court** near **Dazzle Mi**. We start a bit past 1pm, so if you're late, please find a seat and start writing -- we'd love to hear about your story or your day -- afterwards. :) **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near **Dazzel Mi**. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

Struggling with motivation and focus as you hammer away on your manuscript at home? Want to join a community of writers as we embrace the joys and pains (mostly pains) of writing together? Bring your laptop, pen & paper, old-school typewriter, or futuristic writing gadget, and join an enthusiastic community of science fiction and fantasy writers as we work on our current projects in the same space. The format will be similar to our online writing sprints: 30-minute blocks of focused, quiet writing time (the sprints), interspersed with breaks where we can chat, ask questions, and share our writing experiences.

Join us for our in-person Saturday critique session! We'll be meeting in the basement of **The Blake House**, which is located near Wellesley and Jarvis, about a 10-minute walk from Wellesley Station or Sherbourne Station. **In respect to the Blake House for hosting us, we humbly request that attendees purchase a meal, dessert, or drink if you are able to do so.** Feel free to bring in a piece of writing up to **2000 words** for reading and critique. Please bring paper copies so that listeners can easily follow and make notes. Dedicated listeners are equally welcome. In larger groups, please be mindful of giving everyone a fair chance to speak. Our group values and meeting structure can be found here: [https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines](https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines) We ask that writers provide content warnings when necessary. To limit the spread of diseases, we kindly ask that you stay home if you're feeling sick. We will be here every week! **\*\*We support the hard work and effort that goes into writing fiction, and do not condone the use of AI to replace the creative process.\*\*** And, that's everything! See you there!

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other's work. Other Important Details: WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

Do you consider rolling dice strength training? Can you run a D&D campaign, but not a city block? If so, **WIZARDS & WORKOUTS** is for you. My name is Peter Reynolds. I'm a writer and lover of role playing games. I'm also out of shape. I've been looking for ways to motivate myself to start working out with the same enthusiasm I bring to my Dungeons & Dragons campaign. The plan is simple: host a fun, live role playing game where players take on the role of their favourite fantasy characters. The catch? You need to exercise if you want to succeed. Fighting a dragon? A fireball might cost you 5 pushups. Crossing a rooftop? Can you balance on one foot for a minute? By combining simple, low impact exercises, including walking & stretching, with an interactive adventure, we'll all get healthier, have fun and maybe meet some new friends along the way. All fitness levels are welcome (as are dogs), and no previous knowledge of Dungeons & Dragons is necessary. We meet in front of Broadview subway station at 10:00 am sharp and then walk to the Outdoor Fitness Station in Riverdale Park East (there are washrooms). At 11:30 we start walking west, through the park, ending at the Blake House Restaurant \* (Wellesley & Jarvis) by 12:30. There's no costs for the first session. If it proves successful, I'll be looking to create an multi-week campaign that will run through the summer. Details to follow for those that register. Hope to see you there! *\*The Blake House is where our Sci-Fi and Fantasy Writers' Group meets every Saturday from 1pm - 4pm to critique each others work. For more information on this event. Check out our Meetup events page.*

**\~Please [SIGN UP here](https://calendly.com/breathinginnature/yoga-in-nature) for free before the class\~** [Click here for a map of the exact location](https://goo.gl/maps/x1YMV41Bmhcf7chb6). My community classes in High Park are by donation, for all bodies, and no experience is required. What is yoga? We combine breath, movement and awareness, all in the healing nature of High Park. **What to bring?** * Yoga mat (optional - the grass is nice to yoga on) * Water * Weather-appropriate clothing/ blanket for relaxation We yoga rain or shine. There is shelter if we need it. [Exact location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/9424Zn5G1Xf4kTEj7), close the the High Park Forest School by the North Gate (short walk from High Park Subway station, Bloor and High Park intersection). My classes are by donation, or pay what you can. It's also drop-in, so feel free to just show up. Donations can be made at the class in person, via our [Breathing in Nature Gift Economy](https://www.breathinginnature.com/gift-economy/) or e-transfer to nici@breathinginnature.com. On average folks donate between $5-$30 per class. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. 416.885.0583 If you are wondering who I am and what I do, feel free to check out my my [website](https://www.breathinginnature.com/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/breathinginnature/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/nicole.bohr) page, [my bio](https://www.breathinginnature.com/about/), or [my LinkedIn](www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleczerwinski/).

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

The topic for June is "Roadtrip" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!