Obstacle Race

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.

***We have now resumed in-person meetups!*** We are a group of tarot practitioners and enthusiasts who are looking to practice and expand our tarot skills through both collaborative discussion and hands-on practice. Everyone is welcome regardless of skill level, even if you've never picked up a deck in your life! Each month we'll have a topic to discuss together, and when that discussion wraps up the session is opened up to any questions people might have about tarot. We also often break up into smaller groups to practice giving readings to each other. (The giving and receiving of readings are both completely voluntary, so please don't feel pressured!) Having a tarot deck is not required. (If you're looking for recommendations for a first deck, we'll be more than happy to help!) Some have found it helpful to bring pen and paper for notes as well. No fee, however snacks, donations for the tea fund, and gifts of practical items for the shop (toilet paper, paper towels, etc) are always welcome. Use of workshop space agreement at Sticks and Stones: 1. Feel free to arrange and decorate the space before your event, and make sure before you go to leave it as you found it. 2. Hot water and tea are provided by the store and you are welcome to help yourselves. We accept donations in the form of money, tea, paper products (tissues, paper towels, toilet paper) dish soap, etc, to help pay for this free service. 3. You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks to your event (no alcohol.) It is suggested that you bring any utensils and plates if needed, however we might have some available from previous donations if you forget. 4. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times, in all areas of the store. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to take any of the workshops/classes. 5. Sticks and Stones respects each and everyone’s spiritual path; we do not discriminate based on race, religion, sexuality, political views, etc. Please be kind and respectful with your discussions, as we have many people from all faiths entering our store during business hours.

This Sunday, we’re hitting the streets for a scenic skate with a very special destination: the ice rink! Big Mike (our newly elected president!) will lead us as we head to Canal Park Ice Rink ([https://www.skatecanalpark.com/](https://www.skatecanalpark.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYmVlTEx4UDVBNmNTeEJrVnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4oLu1_cix3RLFDfOKJFUTEVq6UOOM4uKZEZM1G-H0lHvm7Oc3I_0FwVgRsxQ_aem_SZv4joOrMKpw6FEyZJXYmQ)) to celebrate Donovan’s Birthday on the ice. Whether you're a pro on blades or just there for the vibes, let’s make it a party to remember. ________________________________________ The Pre-Party Roll Before we hit the ice, we’ll take a festive "birthday lap" through the city: • The Start: Meet at Freedom Plaza. • The Sights: A cruise down Pennsylvania Avenue to see the United States Capitol and its famous holiday tree. • The Waterfront: A scenic loop through Southwest DC and the Anacostia Waterfront, crossing the 11th Street Bridge as we head toward the rink. ________________________________________ The Main Event: Birthday on Ice! Our destination is the Canal Park Ice Rink ([https://www.skatecanalpark.com/](https://www.skatecanalpark.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYmVlTEx4UDVBNmNTeEJrVnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5sNOGE0i6xiGMxsJtGp7uHPj5g1IcJDUORIXkUqBzkpZXrts4cGCGBTVJxSg_aem_xpTO2-N9DYpA_6Zjln28Ew)). This is where the real celebration begins! Birthday Logistics: • Ice Session: We’ll be stopping here to swap our inline wheels for ice blades in honor of Donovan! • Adult Pricing (Ages 13+): Admission: $13.00 when reserved online or $15.00 for walk-ups. Skate Rental: $6.00 – $7.00 per person. • Sessions: Skating sessions are 90 minutes long. • Stay or Go: For those who want to keep rolling, a leader will guide a group back to Freedom Plaza immediately upon arrival at the rink. • The Ice Crew: If you’re staying to skate with Donovan, please be prepared to arrange your own way back to Freedom Plaza/your car afterward. ________________________________________ What You Need to Know • Bring: Socks for ice skates, your birthday spirit, and funds for rink admission/rentals (admission is typically \~$15 and rentals are \~$7). • Route: Urban street skating. The journey from Freedom Plaza to the rink is roughly 4.8 miles. Comfort with bridges and Sunday morning city traffic is recommended. The full route is \~9 miles with 280’ elevation gain. • Celebration Level: Maximum. Here is the route: [https://onthegomap.com/s/rvgmjjbl](https://onthegomap.com/s/rvgmjjbl?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYmVlTEx4UDVBNmNTeEJrVnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7NCqRdiKThQjcJI3uGocst4PQvGBeTe8JamMOgp8TcjBcDYVRb5D_hmRYZ-g_aem_L-yuFzNCsznptJQ4m850lQ) For up-to-the-moment details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you soon!

Just good ole Ultimate Frisbee. Tons of fun. Great group. No stacks. No pick calls (but no picks!!!). Fair warning to those totally new to ultimate: it's a lot of running. \*\*Please pay close attention to the rule #6 listed below. *What to DEFINITELY bring* 1. Running shoes/Cleats 2. One white shirt *and* one dark shirt !!!! See this one !!!! \-\-\- IMPORTANT you can play both dark and white so we can make teams when we get there; just pickup after all 😎 3. Water *What you can ALSO bring* 4\. Snacks & Drinks 5\. Gloves \(winter\) 6\. Sunscreen \(summer\) 7\. Sunglasses 😎 House Rules - 1. Starting Play: Each point begins with both teams lining up on the front of opposite end zone lines. The defense throws ("pulls") the disc to the offense. 2. Scoring: Each time the offense catches a pass in the defense's end zone, the offense scores a point. The teams switch direction after every goal, and the next point begins with a new pull by the team that just scored. 3. Movement of the Disc: The disc may be advanced in any direction by completing a pass to a teammate. Players may not run with the disc. The person with the disc ("thrower") has ten seconds to throw the disc. The defender guarding the thrower ("marker") counts out the stall count. 4. Change of Possession: When a pass is not completed (e.g. out of bounds, drop, block, interception, stalled), the defense immediately takes possession of the disc and becomes the offense. 5. Substitutions: Players not in the game may replace players in the game after a score and during an injury timeout. (Modified depending on the number of the attendees) 6. Non-contact: Players must attempt to avoid physical contact during play. Picks and screens are also prohibited. 7. Fouls: When a player initiates contact that affects the play, a foul occurs. When a foul causes a player to lose possession, the play resumes as if the possession was retained. If the player that the foul was called against disagrees with the foul call, the play is redone. 8. Self-Officiating: Players are responsible for their own foul and line calls. The host will also step in if it is needed. Please message the event host for any questions or concerns. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

ZAZEN Since the start of 2024 we've been back to our original location at 2402 Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray, for seated meditation Sundays starting at 8:00am. **Please note that this event is in-person only.** It's best to arrive by 7:45am to be ready for the 8:00 start of our zazen. If it's your first visit, try to arrive by 7:35 so we can have time for a brief introduction to the practice. After a half-hour of *zazen* we put away the cushions and open a discussion about zen teachings and life in general, ending by 9:15. You can also join us on weekday mornings, when we have a half-hour virtual zazen session starting at 6:45. For details, visit our website: www.delrayzen.org.

Let's get together to play some competitive doubles volleyball. **COST**: FREE **Court Type**: Outdoor grass **Minimum Skill Requirements**: BB+ (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) Attention: 1. This event is **NOT on a first come-first serve** basis and players with higher skill level and players who can bring a net/ball will get priority over others on the wait list. 2. Since skill levels are **self-reported**, some new attendees may not meet the expected level. For doubles, we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this a competitive event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games. 3. Each person must help set up and take down one net, leaving some nets unset for latecomers. 4. Please answer all questions, so it's helpful for us to organize the event. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

Celebrate the passing of the seasons and the return of the sun on our Annual Sugarloaf Winter Solstice/Poetry Hike, an Adventuring tradition since 1997. This year we're able to do this hike on the actual day of the Solstice--Sunday, December 21, 2025. After varying the routine a bit last year, we will return to our usual 7-mile circuit, with lunch at White Rocks and climbing to the summit near the end. Expect some climbing and a variety of terrain, including some rocks. During our White Rocks lunch, we’ll share favorite poems in honor of the passing of another year. Meet at 9 a.m. at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station. So we can plan accordingly, please answer the Meetup questions about whether you’ll be meeting us at Grosvenor-Strathmore or Sugarloaf, and whether you can be a carpool driver. Those wishing to drive directly to Sugarloaf should contact Chris Craig for directions and time; you can email him directly at [ccraig@laurellodge.com](http://mailto:ccraig@laurellodge.com/). We'll all rendezvous by 10 a.m. in the West View parking lot—the one at the top of the drive. Bring a bag lunch (we will NOT be stopping at a Sheetz on the way), water, sturdy shoes, the $5 Adventuring fee, $5 to reimburse your carpool driver — and most important, a poem to share on the mountaintop (your own or someone else's). \>\> 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.

Join us for an evening of laughter 😂, good vibes ✨, and holiday cheer 🎄🎅 at Astro Beer Hall in Shirlington, Virginia! Dust off your most hilariously hideous holiday sweater 🤣🧥 and come ready to meet up with old friends 👯‍♂️ and make new connections 🤝 in a festive, laid-back atmosphere 🌟. 🎉 What to Expect: • A cozy, upbeat setting at Astro Beer Hall 🍺🍔 with craft beers and delicious bites 😋 • Icebreaker games 🎲😄 and activities to help you connect with new faces 🌟🫶 • An “Ugliest Sweater Contest” 👚🤪🏆 Whether you’re here to mingle 🗣️, share laughs 🤣, or show off your sweater style 💃🕺, this party promises to bring the holiday spirit to life ✨🎄❄️! Don’t miss the chance to create memorable moments 📸💫 with great people ❤️. Bring your festive spirit 🎁✨ and a sense of humor 😄, and we’ll handle the rest. See you there! 🎅🎉🔥🥳

Catch all the NFL action at Astro Beer Hall, where giant screens, cold brews, and game-day eats create the ultimate football atmosphere. Whether you’re tracking your fantasy team, rooting for your squad, or just here for the energy, Astro is the perfect Sunday destination. Expect a lively crowd, plenty of screens so you never miss a snap, and an atmosphere that makes every touchdown feel like a win. 📍 Where: Astro Beer Hall, 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 🗓️ When: Every Sunday, kickoff at 1:00 PM EST 💵 Cost: Pay for what you order (game-day specials available) 👥 Who Should Come: Football fans, fantasy players, sports lovers, and anyone looking for a fun, high-energy Sunday hangout 🍻🏈 Bring your team spirit—big plays, cold drinks, and great vibes are waiting!

Join DJ Battle, John & Sean for the Annual Ugly Sweater ride a starting from PJs. There will be a 20 mile route at conversation pace. Meetup will be at 920m and rollout at 10am. Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41559552 For this December ride its we’ll ask for attendees to wear their favorite holiday ugly jersey/sweater. During this season of giving AVS is also partnering with GII for the annual
Coat & Toy Drive. AVS will accept donated “new” coats or a “new” toy” for this years efforts. All donations will go to the Willing Helpers Society in La Plata, Md. Any kindness will go a long way to helping families stay warm and have toys for kids during the holiday season. Thanking you all in advance We look forward to seeing everyone in a few weeks.

Lovely hike through the scenic rolling farm land that is location of the first battle of the Civil War. This area is rich in history and scenery. I love this hike for the open vistas and rolling hills. **Time**: Hike **leaves** at 9:30am. Please be there early to gear up, use rest rooms. **Where to Meet. Henry Hill Visitor Center** porch. 6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA. 20109 **Difficulty**\- moderate\. I hike at a brisk pace so this not a good hike for new or out of shape hikers\. If you can’t keep up you risk being left behind\. Make sure you grab a map at the visitor center so you can find your way back\. **Distance** 11miles **Duratio**n: 4.5 hours **Scenery:** Rolling hills, fields, Battlefield **Trail surface:** mostly dirt/very muddy when wet, standing water. Some gravel. **Facilities**: Restrooms at visitor center. Visitor center worth the visit to understand the battles. **Elevation Gain:** several hundred feet. **Dogs:** NO **Park Link**: [http://www.nps.gov/mana/index.htm](http://www.nps.gov/mana/index.htm) **Other.** Bring snacks or lunch. We will stop around noon for lunch break. **Directions:** From Washington D.C. and Points East: Travel west on I-66 to Exit 47B, Route 234 North (Sudley Road). Turn right (north) on 234 at top of exit ramp. Proceed through the first traffic light. The entrance to the Henry Hill Visitors Center is on the right, just past the Northern Virginia Community College. **Park entry fee:** Free Dress for the weather.

Join us for our 2v2 Open **Dinking It with Santa Pickleball Tournament**, where holiday cheer meets friendly competition. Whether you’re aiming for the win or just here for the festive fun, all skill levels are welcome. ***All proceeds go to the Volo Kids Foundation, providing free youth sports programming for kids throughout the DMV.*** **To participate, you must be registered through the Volo Website using [this link.](https://www.volosports.com/l/b102708a-ecbd-4287-bba5-7eb6040cf663)** **Your tournament includes:** * Minimum of 3 Pool Play games to 11 (3 games per match). No win by 2 in pool play. * Top 4 teams will advance to the tournament round. **Other Fun Reminders!** 🎁 **Festive holiday costumes encouraged** (ugly sweaters, elves & Santas galore!) 🎅 **All levels welcome** 🍪 **Raffle items & giveaways!**

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

Help us ringing New Year’s Eve with our traditional bowling Meetup and Bar crawl with Central Ohio friends. Sequoia has reserved 8 lanes for us at $15 per Person which includes 2 hours of unlimited bowling and shoes!! Bowling begins promptly at 9 PM. Please arrive early. See you there! Yes

We meet at lunch each week and each meeting follows a fairly organized agenda. First all participants pass their business cards around. Then each member and guest is invited to give a one-minute overview of their company and what is a perfect referral for the week. We always have a 10 minute presentation from one of the members about their business in more detail. And finally we pass referrals. You're welcome to visit. Nobody is ever put on the spot. Bring plenty of cards!

The Columbus housing market is evolving, raising questions about next steps. This session will outline current trends in clear, practical terms. Seniors, caregivers, investors, and those preparing to buy or sell in 2026 will all benefit from the information provided. What You’ll Learn: • Key market trends and what’s driving them • How today’s conditions affect buying, selling, and investing • Guidance for seniors and caregivers navigating housing decisions • Strategies to make informed, confident choices All are welcome to attend. Please bring any questions you may have.

We will hike approx 4 miles looping through the gardens, boardwalk trail and chipmunk trail.