Memoir Writing

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.

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.

Hello everyone, Please join us for a fabulous and unique evening as we get to experience all the great, powerful and inspiring music I have written over the years; now live in person! These are songs that I have written for well over 30 years. (I'll be playing many of my more recent songs and personal favorites) I trust you will truly love what you hear! \*Joined by my other groups too; so we can anticipate a wonderful evening! **Location:** Smoke Show - 747 Mt. Pleasant Rd. https://www.smokeshowbbqandbrew.com/ **Date:** Sunday May 24th, 2026 **Time:** Arrive between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm (if you can) \*Arrive a bit early if you like to get settled in :) **Event Fee:** 10 dollar at the door or e transfer in advance to steveflemming11@gmail.com Event Details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Songwriter, Lyricist and Host) Event Details: **Steve Flemming's Stories and Songs for Humanity (Dinner and Listening Party)** \*Original Lyrics and Songs by Songwriter and Producer Steve Flemming \*Story songs about love, nature, spirituality, life, loss and everything in between! I'll be playing a mix of songs using a fusion of mixed genres like, Folk, Traditional Folk, Country, Bluegrass, Soft Rock, Rock, Love Ballads, Easy Listening, Soul, R & B, Gospel, Pop, Adult Contemporary, Indie Rock; and many others genres too. **About Steve Flemming (Lyricist and Songwriter)** Highly influenced by the great singer songwriters of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Steve has been writing his own songs since 1990. Songs about life, love, loss, hope, faith, joy, romance, memories, spirituality and redemption. Songs that are universal, heartfelt and often relevant to the lives we lead. **-Arrive any time between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm inside the Restaurant (reserved seating is provided for the group :)** \*Arrive a bit early if you like to get settled in :) **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to [Steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://Steveflemming11@gmail.com/) (One Beverage or Appetizer minimum please to support the venue and staff) (Plan to come for dinner if you can) \*If attending the 3:00 pm Nature Walk that day there will be no additional entrance fee for this Listening Party event :) (1 minute walk from the new Mt. Pleasant & Eglinton station)

**Laughter Yoga, Sound Healing & Breathwork Experience (Toronto/GTA)** By **[Lynn Himmelman, Life Transformation Mentor](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/laughter-yoga-sound-healing-breathwork-experience-torontogta-registration-1972773377277?aff=erellivmlt#organizer-card)** [The Redwood Studios: 3rd floor (stairs)Toronto, ON](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/laughter-yoga-sound-healing-breathwork-experience-torontogta-registration-1972773377277?aff=erellivmlt#location) Sunday, May 24 • 10 AM - 4 PM **Overview** An embodied experience of laughter, breath, movement, and vocal sound play - where voice and expression are felt - not performed. **Remembering Who We Are: A Day of Radical Joy through Laughter Yoga & Vocal Sound Play** Join us **in person** for an uplifting and interactive experience - a **one-time** unique intertwining of the expertise from two well-seasoned workshop facilitators: Lynn Himmelman, Champion of Laughter & Play and Ann-Marie Boudreau, Vocal Sound Play Specialist Extraordinaire! **“Before the world told you who you should be, who were you?”** Most of us have spent years perfecting a "mask"—a version of ourselves that is quiet, composed, and compliant. But behind that mask lies a version of you that is ***loud, rhythmic, and wildly alive.*** In a world that often asks us to "dampen down" our inner spark to fit into boxes and meet societal expectations, it’s easy to lose the melody of our own spirit. ***This workshop is an invitation to strip away the "shoulds" and step back into the vibrant, uninhibited version of yourself.*** This full-day intensive is ***a sanctuary for the unmasked version of you to come out and play***. By weaving together the breathwork of **Laughter Yoga** with the resonance of **Vocal Sound Play**, we create a safe container to dissolve the "cloak" of adulthood and remember our original state: ***pure, uninhibited connection.*** **What to Expect** This isn't a choir rehearsal or a gym class—it’s a journey of reconnection. We use movement, rhythm, and sound to bypass the analytical mind and tap into the wisdom of the body. * **Laughter Yoga:** We utilize intentional laughter as a form of exercise. No jokes are required! Through playful movement and eye contact, "fake" laughter quickly transforms into the genuine, contagious, belly-aching variety. * **Vocal Sound Play:** We move beyond lyrics and "good singing" to explore the raw power of the voice. Through toning, chanting, and melodic improvisation, we release stored tension and reclaim our unique frequency. * **Childlike Play:** We revisit the freedom of childhood - before life lured you into a box of limitations - to rediscover a sense of wonder and curiosity. **The Journey Back to "You"** The goal of this workshop is a profound **"Remembering."** Together, we will: 1. **Shed the Armor:** Use movement to shake off the weight of societal expectations. 2. **Open the Heart:** Use laughter to break down emotional barriers and foster deep connection. 3. **Find Your Frequency:** Use vocal play to express the truths that words often fail to capture. 4. **Reclaim Play:** Remember that joy is your birthright, not a luxury. ***"Laughter is the shortest distance between two people, and song is the bridge between the human and the divine."*** **Who This Is For** **This space is for those who feel:** * A longing to express more fully, but something holds them back * A sense that their voice—literal or metaphorical—has been muted * A desire to reconnect with joy in a way that feels real, not forced You do not need to be "funny," and you certainly do not need to be a "singer." You only need a willingness to listen inwardly…and allow something to shift. If you have a heartbeat and a voice you are perfectly qualified to attend. Come as you are . . . and leave as who you ***really*** are. **What You Will Reclaim** * **The Freedom to Play:** Reconnect with your "Inner Child"- the one who laughed without a punchline and sang without a stage. * **Somatic Release:** Use the combination of sound and laughter to flush cortisol out of your system and replace it with a "cocktail" of endorphins and oxytocin. * **Vocal Empowerment:** Stop "dampening down" your soul. Learn to take up space with your breath and your sound. * **Heart-Centered Connection:** Experience the profound bond that forms when a group of people drops their guards and meets in a space of shared vulnerability. **What You Will Leave With** Not just an experience - but a felt sense you can return to. * The memory of your unfiltered voice * A body that knows how to release, not just hold on * A deeper trust in your natural expression And perhaps most importantly: **the recognition that what you’ve been seeking…** **has been within you the entire time.** **Facilitators' Note** *This is a "no-talent" zone. You don’t need a singing voice, and you don’t need to be in a good mood. We don't use jokes; we use the body. All you need is the desire to be seen and heard in your most authentic form. This workshop provides you with the “How”.* **Participant Checklist** * **Comfortable Clothing:** Wear something you can move, dance, and lie down in. Dress in layers to accommodate periods of heating up and cooling down. * **Relaxation Props:** Bring a yoga mat, 1-2 pillows for under your neck and knees, a blanket or towel to cover yourself * **An Open Mind:** Leave the "adult" at the door; they can pick you up at 5:00 PM. * **Water Bottle:** Laughter and toning are thirsty work! * **Brown Bag Lunch:** Bring food for yourself (Lean towards, fresh, organic, vegetarian choices in order to align with The Redwood Studios vegetarian policy)and (optional)food to share. Get to know your workshop playmates, socializing and breaking bread together, between our morning and afternoon workshop sessions, in our community gathering spot, The Redwood Green Room, 3rd floor. If you prefer to break away on your own for lunch, be aware that there are limited "eating out" options close enough to the venue to be back within the hour. ***Reconnect with your true self through fun, community, and joyful expression.*** **How to Claim Your Spot in the Workshop** Please note that this event can be attended **in-person only**. **Pre-registration is required.** Registration closes at 10pm May 23. Register using this link: [https://yourlifetransformed.coachesconsole.com/laughter-sound-play-immersion](https://yourlifetransformed.coachesconsole.com/laughter-sound-play-immersion)

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **This tour has been revised and updated to reflect new scholarship on the history of the area.** John Lea Sr. was born in Lancashire England, and immigrated to York, in 1819, via Philadelphia. Mary Hutchison, his wife, and John had their first child on May 28, 1814 and named him William. Lot 13 in the third concession was purchased from Alexander McDonnell on January 23, 1820 and the new family, John Lea Sr, William, John Jr. and Mary settled the land. William Lea bought land to the south and began constructing a large, octagonal brick house, which he named Leaside. The house was completed in 1854. John Lea Sr. died soon after. The property became the possession of William's eldest son Joseph in 1893, and he lived in the house until 1903. In 1913 it was abandoned and demolished by Canadian Northern Railway. The company set fire to the historic landmark in order to clear the land for the townsite. A shame indeed! It seems that we have a **history** of eliminating our history piece by piece! Leaside was also, in addition to Liberty Village to the west, part of the great armament industry that contributed to the victory in world War 2. Leaside is one of Toronto's most historic neighbourhoods, with plenty to discover and explore. Make the most of winter and let's walk and learn about an area of Toronto that is not well known, and certainly not on the history walking tours agenda for most companies. This walking tour is for all levels and walkers. The tour begins and ends at the Leaside Branch of the Toronto Public Library at 165 McRae Drive, north of Millwood Road. We will return to this location after our walk! This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

Solo parents unite! Time for a coffee break for the solo/divorced/other parents. Come swap stories, chit chat, make friends, meet new people. Free event.

**MeetUp Point: Entrance is off Leslie Street. Turn left on Leslie to the parking lot 2 in Wilkett Creek Park.** (Don't follow the pin) Join us for a 12 km urban hike that is challenging. Starting past Wilcot Parking lot 2, we will be passing through sunnybrook Park and Edwards Gardens. For lunch we can atop at the TBG Bloom Cafe or bring a lunch, lots of water. Please ensure arms and legs are covered as there are plenty of ticks out there.

🏛️🚶 **DOORS OPEN TORONTO: HIDDEN BUILDINGS & CITY STORIES WALK** 🚶🏛️ Historic Spaces, Community Landmarks & A City Revealed Some buildings you walk past every day without thinking twice… until the doors open. Join us for a second day of Doors Open Toronto, where we’ll explore a mix of historic, cultural, and community spaces across the city — each with its own story, purpose, and evolution. This walk is about contrast. Old and new. Exclusive and inclusive. Grand and everyday. And how all of it shapes the city we live in. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social, story-driven walk — with moments to pause, look, and see familiar places differently. 👉 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll move through a curated route of Doors Open, stopping at a variety of buildings and institutions that reflect Toronto’s layered history and community life. Some of the locations we may visit include: * **Fire Station 315** – Opened in 1889, this historic fire hall is built of brick with stone detailing, reflecting early 20th-century civic architecture. * **The El Mocambo** – Opened in 1948, this iconic music venue is housed in a brick building with a classic mid-century commercial façade. * **Daniels Building (University of Toronto)** – Opened in 1875 (as Knox College), this Gothic Revival building is constructed of sandstone with intricate masonry detailing. * **U of T Bookstore (Koffler Student Centre)** – Opened in 1958, this modernist structure is built primarily of concrete and glass. * **Polish Combatants' Association Branch 20** – Opened in 1950, this community hall is a modest brick structure reflecting post-war institutional design. * **St. George’s Hall (Arts & Letters Club)** – Opened in 1891, this heritage building is constructed of brick and stone in a Victorian style. * **St. George Greek Orthodox Church** – Opened in 1897, this church is built of brick with classical detailing and later Byzantine-inspired elements. * **Street Health** – Established in 1986, the facility operates out of a practical brick building adapted for community healthcare use. * **Street Haven** – Founded in 1965, this women’s shelter is housed in a converted brick residential building typical of the area. * **Jarvis Street Baptist Church** – Opened in 1875, this Gothic Revival church is built of brick with stone accents. * **The 519** –This building actually dates back to 1858 — long before it became The 519 we know today — and started as a Georgian-style home before evolving into a community space. * **Foy-Smith House** – Built in 1891, this historic home is constructed of brick in the Queen Anne Revival style. * **St. Paul’s Bloor Street** – Opened in 1889, this Romanesque Revival church is built of stone with a commanding tower and detailed masonry. Some locations we’ll enter, others we’ll experience from the outside depending on timing and lineups. ⚠️ Please note: wait times are part of Doors Open. We’ll move as a group and make decisions along the way. \*\*\* 🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto? Doors Open Toronto is a free annual event where the city opens up buildings that are normally closed to the public — from historic homes and cultural institutions to places you’d never usually think to step inside. It’s one of the best ways to explore Toronto beyond the surface. \*\*\* 🌆 Vibe & Expectations This is a longer, more exploratory walk with: ✔️ Multiple stops ✔️ Some waiting in lines ✔️ A mix of indoor and outdoor spaces ✔️ Members can leave any time the like It’s not about rushing — it’s about discovering. Also — this is NOT a formal historical tour. I’ll share context and stories as we go, but the focus is on the experience and being social. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: **Fire Station 315** 🫎 I’ll be outside and I will be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: (Insert time) I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us along the route. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us. \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **[[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com)]([mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](http://mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com/))** Doors Open is free to attend. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Patience for lines ⏳ Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: snacks or money for food along the way \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com)]([mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](http://mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com/)) Come for the buildings. Stay for the stories. Leave seeing the city not just as it looks — but as it’s evolved. 🏛️✨

4–4.5 km/h Pace From 4921 Rutherford Rd., Woodbridge to the McMichael Canadian Art Collection via William Granger Greenway and back. The hike will be approximately 11–12 km. Please bring water, snacks, and your beautiful smile. Please know your fitness level and join only if you are comfortable maintaining a 4–4.5 km/h pace. We will leave at 9:00 AM. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early. **IMPORTANT REMINDER** BY PARTICIPATING IN THIS HIKE, YOU CONFIRM THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTOOD, AND AGREED TO THE LIABILITY WAIVER AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK. IF YOU HAVE NOT DONE SO, WE KINDLY REQUEST THAT YOU REFRAIN FROM PARTICIPATING IN THIS EVENT. WE APPRECIATE YOUR COOPERATION. We look forward to an enjoyable and safe adventure.

**Want to help bring your city’s community together?** We’re looking for local hosts to organize small group lunches, evening drinks, mixers, movie get-togethers and curated experiences. **No experience necessary,** just a friendly attitude, some local knowledge, and a willingness to meet a few new people. After each event, we’ll send a short feedback form so we can improve and support you. The host will also be able to provide feedback so we can learn what worked and what didn't. **[Click here](https://form.questionscout.com/6926c9ab87a828a5c11a79fc)** to apply and get started: if you’re selected, we’ll reach out for a quick screening call.

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.

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!

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!

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!

[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321) Location: The Goat River South 219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 Street parking is free on Sundays [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.