Moon Phases

**Merry Meet!** **Rescheduling *WitchCrafting* to a one time Saturday afternoon event. Woohoo!** **Join us on Saturday, February 14th at 7 PM for the rescheduled event.** Teach a witch a spell and she can do that spell. Teach a witch *The Craft* and she can do magick! GrannyMoon, Teaching the Craft for over 20 years! Please be sure to RSVP each week so I can order enough supplies for everyone! Thanks! • Basic Magickal Skills • Sacred Space • Magickal Correspondences • Casting a Circle • Magickal Working • Phases of the Moon • Crystals and Stones • Candle Magick • Herbs and Oils • Creating Your Own Spells and Rituals And much much more!!! Hands-On! Learn something new in every workshop and take home your project! Instructor: GrannyMoon grannymoonsmail@yahoo.com $25.00 per workshop - Includes herbs and all items needed for projects!

**The Goombay CUPID HIKE for Single & Couples** We’re making it easy (and fun) to connect on the trail! Wear a color that represents your vibe and let the hike do the rest. **Saturday\, Feb\. 14th \| 10am\-12pm** **Rock Creek Park** \| 5200 Glover Rd\. NW Washington\, DC \* We will meet in the parking lot of the Nature Center. **RSVP at [www.Goombay.net](www.goombay.net) or at the direct link below** **[http://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4888022-cupid-hike-for-singles--couples-2026](http://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4888022-cupid-hike-for-singles--couples-2026)** _______________________________ **Wear RED: I'm already taken** For participants who are: * In a relationship * Married * Boo’d up * Here for the hike, vibes, and fun—not flirting **Wear WHITE: I'm Open-Minded/No pressure** * Single but not rushing * Recently single * Emotionally available but moving intentionally * Just enjoying the vibe and organic connections **Wear BLACK: I'm Single & Ready to Mingle** For participants who are: * Single * Actively open to meeting someone * Comfortable with conversation, flirting, and connections ## **Playful Disclaimer (Highly Recommended)** **Friendly Trail Rules** • Colors are for fun—not guarantees • Respect everyone’s space and boundaries • “No” is a full sentence • This is a hike first… connections second Good vibes only. Let’s keep it classy and comfortable for everyone. ________________________________ This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate inclines and may have some steeper sections. This trail is 5-6 miles through scenic Rock Creek Park. \*\* NO PETS ALLOWED **HIKE AGENDA:** 9:45am: Hikers check in at the entrance to the Nature Center. You will see the group assembling by the parking lot. 10:00am: Hikers assemble for welcome announcement 10:15am: Hike begins 12:00pm: Hike ends 12:30pm: Meet at the SURFSIDE \| 4200 Wisconsin Ave\. NW Washington\, DC **SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST** * Day Pack for hiking supplies * Trekking Poles (optional) * Sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers * Small First Aid Kit (optional) * Weather-appropriate clothing (think moisture-wicking and layers) * Hat or scarf * Trail snacks & plenty of water * Wipes/Toilet Paper (optional) * Hand Warmers (optional) * Cell phone with back up battery **FAQ** **WHAT LEVEL IS THIS HIKE:** This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate inclines and may have some steeper sections. This trail is between 5-6 miles. **CAN BEGINNERS ATTEND THIS HIKE:** Yes, we welcome beginners to attend this hike but please note, there will be some challenging sections throughout the hike but nothing to strenuous. **WHAT IS THE PACE OF THE GROUP:** The group will start off at the same time and during the hike three distinct pace groups will form. We will have hike leaders mixed within the group and we will stop periodically for water and rest. **WHAT TYPE OF HIKE IS THIS:** This is a loop trail hike and will start and end at the same location **WHAT SHOULD I WEAR:** A good rule of thumb is to dress comfortably and in layers. Dressing in layers will allow you to stay warm when your cold and as you warm up, you can take off layers and not over heat. It's going to be cool to cold so we strongly suggest warm clothing, moisture wicking under garments, a hat, sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers (your choice), wool socks, a small day back, trekking poles (optional) and plenty of water. **ARE PETS ALLOWED:** NO ***If you have any questions please contact Butch at 202.210-1957***

At this turning of the year and the rekindling of the sacred fire, please join MoonFire on Sunday, February 15, at 12:00 PM, as we set our will toward the blessing of right leadership within this land. We’ll meditate for the strengthening of stewardship, that those entrusted with authority may act with wisdom, restraint, and responsibility. A potluck will follow the ritual; you might like to bring food or drink to share, along with your own plates/utensils, or share our food and supply of washable re-usables. MoonFire holds ritual the 3rd Sunday of every month at the UU Church of Arlington, VA, starting at 12 PM with a pre-ritual briefing. Plan to arrive a little early so you can meet folks and get settled in. Rituals are usually followed by a potluck. We welcome everyone. If you are wondering whether to bring children, are new to Paganism, or plan to take pictures or write about our ritual, let us know ahead of time.

Part 1 of our celebration of the Year of the Horse starts with our Tet dinner at Present in Falls Church. Here's the link if you wish to peruse their menu: [https://presentrestaurant.com/menu](https://presentrestaurant.com/menu) We really want to try and fill out our tables with attendees, so we ask that you be diligent with managing your RSVPs. The RSVP mechanism will close 24 hours before the start of the event, so make your decisions by then so that we can give the restaurant an accurate head count! Disclaimer that we have to say even though we don't want to.........Just a heads up that we may have to give out "No Show" labels to those who don't follow our attendance protocol, but we know you don't want that Scarlet Letter, so don't let it be you! Also, please do not show up if you are not in the field of attendees! You will only anger the horse! As always, a bonus activity could follow if the mood is right! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

Laser tag with the GLtech team! Join our discord community: [Join us on discord!](https://discord.gg/kUGh856SZH)

**Paws, Pints & Puppy Love: Valentine’s Day Singles Meetup** Looking for love… or at least a new friend who thinks your dog is as cute as you do? Join us for a Valentine’s Day gathering designed for singles who own dogs (or just adore them.) We’ll be meeting at **Dog Daze Social Club**, a dog-friendly restaurant and social space where pups are welcome and conversations come easy. Whether you arrive with your four-legged wingman or simply want to meet other dog-loving singles, this is a relaxed, playful way to spend Valentine’s Day without pressure or awkward small talk. Expect: * A warm, casual atmosphere * Plenty of dogs to pet and talk about * Food and drinks available for purchase * A mix of people who love dogs as much as you do No speed dating. No forced activities. Just good company, wagging tails, and an easy way to meet new people. (maybe that special someone...) **Location:** Dog Daze Social Club - in a heated tent (so outside, for your awareness) 1100 Rhode Island Ave NW Washington, DC 20005 **Date:** Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026 Bring your dog if you have one. Bring yourself if you don’t. Either way, you’re welcome. (But you must love dogs!) ***Important note:*** *Before attending, please review Dog Daze Social Club’s house rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Dogs must meet age and vaccination requirements, follow leash and collar rules, and display friendly behavior, while humans are asked to supervise their pups, clean up after them, and respect the facility’s guidelines. **The limit for dogs brought to the venue is 2**, and staff may enforce time-outs or removal for unsafe behavior.* Due to reservation limitations, no +1's are allowed. Full rules and details can be found here: https://dogdazedc.com/rules/

We’re launching 2026 in full motion with a two-day dance takeover at El Rey, and this is just the beginning of an epic year of dance events. **Friday, February 13** Friday Night Fever Our very first monthly dance party kicks off—big energy, nonstop music, and a packed dance floor. **Saturday, February 14** Valentine’s Day Ball A night to celebrate love, friendship, and connection with unforgettable vibes and music that keeps you moving. Two nights. Two massive dance parties. One iconic venue. Come for one night, or go all in for both, and help us set the tone for an unforgettable year. Let’s dance it out at El Rey.

Want to be a speaker? submit your talk to our Call for Presenters!!! https://sessionize.com/cbus-hug-2026/

# **Band: Old Possum's Menagerie; Caller: Richard Ades** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** 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 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. 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. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

New Moon discussion: Members freee, to discuss your chart $10 Register: www.LakeCountyAstrology.com

As you may or may not know--I didn't until late last year--Aristotle wrote extensively on "friendship" in the Nicomachean Ethics. After 69 years the concept of friendship still creates questions and uncertainty. I had close friends in high school and for a few years after high school but our interests diverged and people moved all over the country so it was hard to maintain connections. * So if I/you haven't talked with a friend for several years, are you still friends? Are we friends who meet at Drunken Philosophy or Omnipresent Atheists? * Can you be friends with someone with whom you have virulently divergent political views? Sartre and Camus could not. * Aristotle regarded friendship as essential to a good life, not merely an added "bonus." Do you agree? * In the Nicomachean Ethics (Books VIII and IX), he claims that wealth and power are meaningless without friends. Trump has wealth and power but seems to have no real friends, but wealth and power seem meaningful to him in perverted ways. Can you have meaning in your life without friends? * Do men and women view and maintain friendships in different ways? * Aristotle categorizes friendship into three types, based on what forms the bond: * **Utility**: Based on mutual benefit, but this type is fragile and ends when the usefulness ceases. * **Pleasure**: Based on shared enjoyment (e.g., humor, hobbies). Common among youth but fades as interests change. * **Virtue (The "Complete" Friendship)**: Based on mutual respect for each other's character and goodness. You wish good for the other for their sake, not yours. * **Key Principles of "True" (Virtuous) Friendship:** * **Permanence**: Virtuous friendships last a lifetime whereas those based on utility and pleasure are fleeting. * **Reciprocity**: Requires mutual goodwill; secret or unreciprocated affection does not qualify. * **The "Second Self"**: A true friend is "another self"—their virtue helps you understand and improve yourself. * **Time and Intimacy**: Deep ("complete") friendships are few, built on time and shared experiences. * **Self-Love and Friendship:** * Good friendship starts with being a friend to yourself. * They distinguish shallow egoism (chasing honors) from real self-love (pursuing virtue). * A virtuous person’s pleasant self-company allows them to be a stable, good friend to others. * Aristotle argues that one's social circle ultimately reflects one's character—a view with striking relevance today. Well--the Drunken Philosophy social circle certainly reflects good character!