Plants

It is supposed to be 60 degrees Thursday. Let’s take advantage with a walk at Brookside Gardens. We will meet to the right facing the visitors center. If anyone is interested we can go to lunch afterwards.

**Wheaton Regional Park and Brookside Garden a 6.2 Moderate Hike** Enjoy a delightful hike just outside of the beltway. This 536-acre park is loaded with wooded trails that traverse modest hills. We will explore many of them. We will also dip into the 50-acre Brookside Gardens, complete with its diverse plantings and shimmering ponds. It is often described as the jewel of Montgomery County parks. The surface for this hike is mostly natural surface, although there are significant sections of paved surface. Feel free to bring along lunch to enjoy at the trailhead when the hike is over, then stroll back to Brookside Gardens if you wish, a short walk from the trailhead. Please be advised that you may not eat in the park. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.054546, -77.043680 The Street address is 2004 Shorefield Rd · Silver Spring, MD. When you enter the park you come to a circle. Drive around it 3/4 of the way (to make a left turn) and proceed to a large parking lot. Drive to the far end of the lot. **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 6.2 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 480 ft Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead and about 4.5 miles into the hike Fees: No entrance fee **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found[ here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/7f535f72c17e25d1f4b025015eb654fd8074dd9f47dfb438304d9fecb7b69194). **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership).

**This exciting event is listed on Go Gay DC as a community courtesy by an allied-group and is not run by Go Gay DC; just go and have a blast anyway!** Register on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-tie-club-social-mixer-freddies-beach-bar-restaurant-tickets-1982265260756?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so there's an accurate guest count. **This casual happy hour is open to gentlemen interested in learning more about Black Tie Club; it's not a members-only event.** Do you want to go to fancy places like country clubs? This happy hour is a chance for you to meet with members of the Washington, DC area chapter of Black Tie Club to learn about upcoming formal events. This fun, happy hour social mixer takes place at Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant. Mingle with other gentlemen. Casual attire is perfectly fine. Meet with members of the Washington, DC area chapter of Black Tie Club, as well as with invited guests and friends. Happy hour cocktails and gratis hors d’oeuvres will be served. Make meaningful new connections. **The event is free to attend; you simply pay for your drinks and/or meal on your own on separate credit card; there's no group tab to worry about**. Afterwards, consider joining the group as we wander half a block over to Federico's for a no-host fabulous Italian dinner. All are invited! At least 20 gentlemen are expected. Enjoy the cash or credit bar drinks. Just ask the bartender what the happy hour specials are. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Freddie's is up 23rd Street just a block. Just look for the rainbow flags on the right side of the street! Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets. Freddie's was voted the Best Virginia Bar by *Washington Blade* readers. Don't like a smoky bar? You are covered: Freddie's is a smoke-free establishment. (Ashtrays are provided in back of the building if smoking is 'your thing'). Freddie's is an LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar. It offers Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/) There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course. Black Tie Club International is a private social club for gay gentlemen. With chapters in over 15 cities, our members enjoy mixing and mingling over cocktails, exquisite dinners, and delicious wines. The events may be formal or casual. Membership is by invitation only although guests are always welcome at events. The Metropolitan Washington, District of Columbia Chapter is celebrating its third decade as the premier social organization for accomplished, professional, and distinguished men in the District of Columbia, the Northern Virginia, and the Annapolis and Baltimore, Maryland areas. The Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Chapter began with 22 Members in 1998 and has now some 40 Members. The peripatetic nature of Black Tie Club International Members is evidenced by the fact that many D.C. Chapter Members are now found in other Chapters such as Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Palm Springs, and Rehoboth Beach-Lewes. The Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Chapter also has been enhanced by Members from other Chapters, notably, Atlanta, Dallas, Palm Beach, Palm Springs, San Antonio, San Francisco, and Toronto. Membership is by invitation only. [https://www.dcbtci.org](https://www.dcbtci.org/?fbclid=IwAR3l7u6tNZDfdnWRiptdcX45aIU3-X_TDsPUOUavz1nhpZTYTapkomlhMc0) \| [dcbtci.substack.com](http://dcbtci.substack.com/?fbclid=IwAR1RtGo-_z3Ziesaj3isbK1jyCq0RT6EzFvxqbFbIbHRyRQppJuDTMeGNl0) This event is being posted by **[Go Gay DC](http://www.gogaydc.com)** as a community service for those who don't know that the Black Tie Club exists. Go Gay DC is Metropolitan Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [http://www.gogaydc.com](http://www.gogaydc.com) **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)** is Go Gay DC's founder. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social](https://gogaydc.bsky.social) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ) Search tags: Gay or Bisexual Men

Regular biweekly walk to find the birds and sights of Lake Artemesia.

Mindful movement and flow: This class is a slower moving, strengthening and balance building practice based on mindfulness. We will bring our intentions to the awareness of our bodies and our breath in movement or in longer held poses. We will explore different breathing techniques that help clear out physical, emotional or mental energies allowing a sense of peace within. The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Experience the ultimate relaxation with our 60-minute Yin & Restorative Yoga fusion class. This session combines the deep, meditative stretches of Yin Yoga with the soothing, supportive postures of Restorative Yoga. During this class, you'll explore longer-held poses designed to release tension from deep within the muscles and connective tissues, promoting flexibility and calm. The Restorative elements enhance relaxation by incorporating props to fully support your body in gentle, nurturing positions, allowing for complete surrender and rejuvenation. This practice is ideal for anyone seeking profound relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of inner peace. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to these styles, join us for an hour of blissful tranquility and restoration. **The session is offered InStudio only. Sign up at www.piesfitnessyoga.com required at least two hours before class begins.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

**In a bold departure from our usual articles and short stories, this month we will be exchanging... seeds.** Bring what you’ve saved, thinned, or over-ordered. Trade, collect, compare notes on seed-starting setups, and swap stories about last season’s triumphs and failures. If you don’t have seeds to share, come anyway. You can learn, collect a few, and hang out with people who get genuinely excited about planting things. * Will we accidentally discuss the nature of generosity? Possibly. * Will someone bring up gift economies? Perhaps. * Will you leave with tomato seeds? Very likely. **Where:** This year we’ll be hosting at [Nova Labs](https://www.nova-labs.org/). Nova Labs is a local maker space—a collaborative workshop with tools, equipment, and creative people building everything from art to prototypes. (I'm a new member. It's a fantastic space!) We can mayyybe sneak in an impromptu tour. And if there’s interest, we can grab a drink afterward and keep the conversation—horticultural or otherwise—going. **Optional inspiration:** The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer, a short reflection on abundance and reciprocity in the natural world. Read it if you like. Or just come for the squash. **Bring:** Seeds, small envelopes or bags, and something to label your seeds with. And a seedy snack if you feel so moved!

\*\*DINE IN OR CARRYOUT (only between hours of 1-4 pm)\*\*\* We are so excited to once again share the delicious WFPB SOS-free food (whole food plant-based, sugar-, oil- salt-free) at Ahadu Ethiopian Cuisine in Burtonsville! Yohannes, the owner/chef, and his wife Feven will prepare a very special SOS-free completely plant based (vegan) buffet for our group, with regular and gluten-free injera available. https://www.yelp.com/biz/ahadu-ethiopian-cuisine-burtonsville https://www.facebook.com/Ahaduethiopiarestaurant/ Price: $32.99 (including tax) per person with regular or gluten-free injera \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP BY FRIDAY MARCH 6\*\*\* ***Tips are not included in the price.*** Drinks included: Homemade Cinnamon Clove Ice Tea (SOS free, no added sweeteners) & Water \*\*\*\*There are around 40 seats in the restaurant. Those sign up and show up will get preferential seating. Pay as soon as you come in. PLEASE cancel your RSVP if you cannot make it so that someone on the waitlist will have the opportunity to attend. We want to be certain we have a full house as Yohannes puts a lot of effort into this special meal for us. \*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*Please comment below if you plan to dine in or carryout so that we can get a head count. Thank you!\*\*\*\*

Winter’s on the wane and signs of spring are popping up, making now a perfect time to appreciate the intermingling of the best of both seasons. Experience the beauty of bare tree architecture and the welcome sight of early bloomers on a stroll abounding with sensory delight at Green Spring Gardens, a local treasure. Tuning in with our senses, we’ll combine slow strolling with attentive pauses to deepen our connection with nature. Green Spring offers space for quiet enjoyment throughout the seasons, and is particularly noted for its collection of dozens of cultivated varieties of witch hazels of many colors. Their unusual flowers are among the earliest to open, often blooming amidst snow and ice, and they are in bloom now. There’s pussy willow (pictured) too. The health benefits of slowing down in quiet company among trees and plants with senses alert and aware are scientifically documented, but the best way to understand these benefits is to experience them yourself, preferably on a regular basis. IMPORTANT! The size of the group is limited! Please be sure to update your status asap on either the “going” or “wait list” if you sign up and find you can’t make it! Walking under 2 miles is mostly on natural, somewhat uneven surfaces, with a few short hills. Wear good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and bring water (or tea) to drink. Park and meet near the open gate on Witch Hazel Rd at Green Spring Gardens 38.82428° N, 77.15808° W 4500-4504 Witch Hazel Rd, Alexandria, VA Please arrive by 8:45 to sign the required SCPRO waiver. SCPRO welcomes a $2. Donation. Add questions to comments, or contact the leader 7037725401

Some questions cannot be answered by Google or AI because Curanderismo has been an oral tradition passed down from generation to generation. What would you ask to an Elder Shaman who is a Recognized Elder in an evening of connection and social gathering over tea and cookies? Join us Friday, March 6th from 6pm-8pm for a special opportunity to meet Maestra Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes and ask questions that you have regarding Shamanism, Energy Healing, Energy Balancing, Curanderismo Rituals such as traditional Energy Cleansings like Limpias, Limpias with herbs, Candles, or Walking the Shaman path in the Curanderismo Tradition. Tea and cookies will be provided. **About Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes: Maestra Ixtoii Paloma** is an elder, instructor, or “Maestra” of the Curanderismo Tradition and also a full-time Curandera and Shaman. She was born and raised in Mexico into the tradition. She started working full-time as a Curandera in the 1980’s. In the late 90’s she moved to the UK and then to California (USA) where she kept her practice and started to teach Mexican Shamanism and Curanderismo and other spiritual modalities. Now not only does she teach in California, but also in other states and countries. It is important to know that she is not an anthropologist or historian. Paloma learned from her teachers in the ancient way, “oral tradition”. \*IMPORTANT NOTE: Paloma is a Mexican Shaman who believes that "medicine plants" are helpful to some people only when used properly in ceremonies. The use of any conscious expanding plant or animal medicines should only be used with the strict and loving guidance of an experienced facilitator. She does not allow the use of any plants, brews, ceremonial tobacco, recreational drugs, alcohol, cannabis, etc. in her workshops or healing ceremonies. Please do not use these before or during her events and services. If you do so you will be asked to leave the event immediately and without a refund. For medicinal plant or animal medicine guidance, please arrange for a private consultation to discuss your particular needs and expectations. **Details** Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit#5 Arlington VA 22205 (We are located on the second floor above trade roots coffee shop. Must enter on the side of the building and go upstairs) Our studio is located in the westover village in Arlignton VA a walkable neighborhood with plenty of street parking.(Please arrive early to set up your spot we will start on time, space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe) Energy Exchange: $17 Time 6pm-8pm (two hour long) Info: healing@curanderasheart.com [www.curanderasheart.com](http://www.curanderasheart.com/) 703\. 531\.7046 call or text \*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed or cancelled reservations.\*\*\*\*

**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.** Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions** 1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? 2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? 3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

We get together to rescue trees from vines and remove other invasive plants twice a month, moving from place to place around Greater Clifton, wherever we spot a problem and have the landowners' permission. RSVP using [this sign-up form.](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeasjEcOQm5v8afwJdriU65Wj8-Q0DetQy4HRKiFNwgwFPy7Q/viewform?usp%3Ddialog&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw1cfet73DRGhpOU4ltw9MoF) This time we will work in the Clifton Betterment Association property in the floodplain of Pope's Head Creek. (Set GPS for 7137 Main Streeet but cross the creek and turn into the big parking lot.)

**Parking**: There are 3 parking lots adjacent to each other, so you will be able to use any one of the lots if there is an overflow. Meeting Spot: Please wait near the "Dog Park" sign that is by the side of the parking lot that is closest to the trail head. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Bring a **joke**. **Trail Description**: "Prince George's County's Paint Branch Trail (not to be confused with Montgomery County's Paint Branch Trail farther north) runs for 3.5 miles between Lake Artemesia and Cherry Hill Neighborhood Park in the Washington, DC, suburb of College Park. The trail is a part of the larger Anacostia Tributory Trail System, which provides miles of off-road paved paths along the various branches of the Anacostia River." **RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT:** By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5. You agree not to sue and to release, discharge, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities, claims, demands, losses, damages, suits and proceedings, for negligence, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity.

Hosted by Licking Parks District Backyard Conservation: Composting 101 Thursday, March 5, 2026 Join us to learn how to create nutrient-rich compost right at home! Whether you have a small garden, a backyard, or just a few potted plants, this program is perfect for anyone interested in reducing waste and boosting soil health. We will go over what compost is and how to use it, what can and cannot be composted, when to turn and water your compost, and troubleshooting! Free. [Register by March 1. Click here ](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026) 6PM - 7PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

GRANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY Plant Swap May 3, 2026 3-4 p.m. Granville Public Library | 217 E. Broadway Is your perennial garden overflowing? Did you start too many native plant or vegetable seeds? Bring your extras to trade with other gardeners. Participants will be able to walk away with one new plant for each one they bring. Plants considered invasive are prohibited from the plant swap. [Click here to read list of prohibited plants ](https://www.oipc.info/list-of-assessed-species.html) To encourage participants to remove invasive plants & plant native plants, Pollinator Pathway will be offering free native plants at the swap. Please label the plants you bring.

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160

Hosted by Licking Parks District Planning and Growing a Cut Flower Garden Thursday, March 12, 2026 Are you a plant lover or garden enthusiast who would like to add growing cut flowers to your garden repertoire but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’d like to grow flowers instead of grass to attract pollinators? Whatever your flower dream is, let’s dig in and start here! Join Tracey Barnes of Moon Maiden Flower Farm to learn the basic foundations of growing a cut flower garden, which includes planning, choosing the right varieties, succession planting for continuous blooms, maintenance, harvesting and post harvest care for making bouquets. Whatever your horticulture experience level is, you’ll gain confidence in your decision making, and before you know it, you’ll be slinging flowers and sharing their beauty with others. Register by Mar 11. [Register here for free https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026) 6PM - 7:30PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

Come join us for coffee at Matari Coffee to discuss our March book, "The Enchanted Greenhouse"! Book description: Terlu Perna broke the law because she was lonely. She cast a spell and created a magically sentient spider plant. As punishment, she was turned into a wooden statue and tucked away into an alcove in the North Reading Room of the Great Library of Alyssium. This should have been the end of her story . . . Yet one day, Terlu wakes in the cold of winter on a nearly-deserted island full of hundreds of magical greenhouses. She’s starving and freezing, and the only other human on the island is a grumpy gardener. To her surprise, he offers Terlu a place to sleep, clean clothes, and freshly baked honey cakes—at least until she’s ready to sail home. But Terlu can’t return home and doesn’t want to—the greenhouses are a dream come true, each more wondrous than the next. When she learns that the magic that sustains them is failing—causing the death of everything within them—Terlu knows she must help. Even if that means breaking the law again. This time, though, she isn’t alone. Assisted by the gardener and a sentient rose, Terlu must unravel the secrets of a long-dead sorcerer if she wants to save the island—and have a fresh chance at happiness and love.

🌱 Vegan Dinner + Bowling Night 🎳 Join us for a relaxed vegan dinner at Loving Hut on Saturday, March 14 from 6:00–8:00 PM. We’ll enjoy delicious plant-based food, good conversation, and chill, friendly vibes. After dinner, we’ll head over for bowling at Holiday Lanes for some fun and laughs 🎉 ✨ All are welcome 🥗 100% vegan dinner 🎳 Bowling afterwards (optional) Come eat, connect, and enjoy a fun Saturday night together 💚 Locations: Loving Hut 6569 E Livingston Ave Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 Holiday lanes 4589 E Broad St Columbus, OH 43213

**Confidence in Bloom: How Creativity Builds Confidence** What happens when creativity becomes an intentional practice? In this month’s Confidence Lab, we’ll gather at **Petals That Inspire: The Flourish Studio** for an evening exploring the connection between creativity and confidence. How making with our hands, engaging our senses, and allowing space for expression can shift how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible. Our featured speaker, **Amanda Lorenzetti**, owner of Petals That Inspire, will share how creativity has shaped her own confidence journey and why creative environments play such a powerful role in well-being, resilience, and personal growth. Drawing from her work leading an experience-driven floral studio and a community-centered workforce development program, Amanda will reflect on creativity as both a personal and collective catalyst. Amanda will also guide us through a **hands-on floral design experience**, creating a fresh arrangement in a wide mouth mason jar. No prior floral experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to engage the process. This evening is an invitation to slow down, create, and reconnect with the part of yourself that grows through care, attention, and imagination. You’ll leave with a floral arrangement to take home, and a deeper understanding of how confidence can be cultivated through creative practices. **Featured Speaker: Amanda Lorenzetti** Amanda Lorenzetti is the owner and founder of [Petals That Inspire](https://www.petalsthatinspire.com/) and The Flourish Studio, a social enterprise florist based in Columbus, Ohio. She brings more than a decade of experience in wedding and event sales, paired with hands-on expertise in floral and event design. Amanda’s connection to the floral industry began early, spending time alongside her godmother, a professional florist on the East Coast. After earning her business degree, she returned to her hometown in Connecticut to work as a floral and event designer, blending creative artistry with strong operational and client-focused skills. In 2020, Amanda returned to the floral industry with a renewed purpose, driven by a desire to build a business rooted in creativity, community impact, and sustainability. During this pivotal time, she founded Petals That Inspire—an innovative floral concept that reimagines the traditional florist model by combining event florals, workshops, and experiential offerings with a mission-centered approach to workforce development. Today, Petals That Inspire is a thriving social enterprise known for its thoughtful design, educational experiences, and commitment to empowering young adults facing barriers to entry in the workforce. Amanda is deeply passionate about building businesses that are both profitable and purpose-driven, and she leverages her strong business acumen to create a scalable & sustainable model that inspires creativity while giving back to the community. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*