Single Baby Boomers

Starting from Federation Square in the city we will walk along the main yarra trail to Burnley Gardens and loop back across MacRobertson Bridge - Grange Road to the opposite side of the Yarra trail returning to Federation Square. This is an easy walk that provides great city and park views as well as allowing us to take in all the river activity. Even at the busiest times it is peaceful along the river bank once we get away from the city. In total we will cover approximately 10.5 kms in approximately 2.5 hours. For anyone interested afterwards we will meet for a coffee, chat and lunch in Fed Square for anyone hungry. We look forward to catching up.

Come join us for our first meetup of 2026! We'll be at the Dymocks Melbourne cafe sitting upstairs in the mezzanine level and we want to hear about what you like to read! For those of you who haven't joined us before, we're a book club with no set book, no homework and no judgement! Come along and tell us what you enjoy reading and what's on your to read list. We ask that you bring no more than four books in total, being a couple you've recently read and/or a couple that are on your to-read list. Given the often adult topics discussed, our meetups aren't suitable for children under the age of 14. **Please note that as advised in our email and post of November 14th 2024 our fees have increased from $5.00 to $6.50 per person per meetup. This is due to Meetup.com doubling the organiser fees for meetup groups. We now pay at least $50 a month to have a Meetup site (unfortunately this cost fluctuates due to Meetup charging us in USD). All fees go towards paying the meetup fees. This can only be accepted via the Meetup site and we do not accept cash on the day.** Similarly, if you are planning to attend, please RSVP on the Meetup site. RSVPs can be made right up until the moment the event starts, we are unable to accept cash on the day or attendances from those who have not RSVPd as we need to plan for attendance numbers and space.

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. The blurb: "Arguably Achebe's most important novel, *Things Fall Apart* has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than fifty languages Okonkwo is the greatest warrior alive, famous throughout West Africa. But when he accidentally kills a clansman, things begin to fall apart. Then Okonkwo returns from exile to find missionaries and colonial governors have arrived in the village. With his world thrown radically off-balance he can only hurtle towards tragedy. Chinua Achebe's stark novel reshaped both African and world literature. This arresting parable of a proud but powerless man witnessing the ruin of his people begins Achebe's landmark trilogy of works chronicling the fate of one African community, continued in *Arrow of God* and *No Longer at Ease*." Goodreads rating: 3.74 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

This workshop is led by David Moore director of the School for F.M. Alexander Studies who has been teaching the technique for the past 40 years. ###### Enhancing Foot Health and Body Alignment A Comprehensive Approach to Walking Patterns and Foot Health In this practical workshop, we will delve into the details of everyday walking patterns and the postural organisation underlying those patterns. We will look at their profound impact on how the forces of gravity interact with our feet and entire body. This workshop aims to highlight the significant influence that these patterns can have, whether beneficial or detrimental, on our overall health and well-being. Foot dysfunctions such as flat arches, plantar fasciitis and bunions are prevalent issues that can cause significant discomfort and mobility problems. We will examine the reciprocal impact of foot problems on the overall postural organisation – things such as bunions, plantar fasciitis. Understanding Walking Patterns Walking is a fundamental activity that we often take for granted unless it is associated with back, knee or foot pain. However, the way we walk can have a dramatic effect on our body's mechanics. During this workshop, we apply the understanding of coordination developed in the Alexander technique. Participants will be guided through an examination of their own postural and walking patterns. We will explore how different ways of walking can either enhance or impair the body's ability to distribute gravitational forces effectively. Through practical exercises, manual guidance and demonstrations, attendees will learn to identify and correct dysfunctional walking habits. This will include an analysis of common issues such as over-pronation, supination, and uneven gait patterns. By the end of this session, participants will have a deeper understanding of how to walk in a way that supports their body's natural alignment and reduces strain on the feet and all the joints of the body.. Alleviating Foot Dysfunctions with the Alexander Technique The Alexander Technique is a renowned method for improving whole-body balance and coordination. Participants will be introduced to the principles of this technique and its direct influence on foot health. By understanding how the body moves as a coordinated whole, attendees will learn to make adjustments that positively impact their feet. People with foot issues are often given a range of different exercises to improve and strengthen their feet, or they are given insoles (orthotics) to support the feet. In this workshop we will examine these approaches, their usefulness to the individuals attending the workshop. While we will look at some of the exercises and, where useful how to do them most effectively, the basic premise of the workshop is that the single most effective intervention may well be to alter the underlying postural and gait pattern. Through guided practice, participants will develop awareness of their posture and movement patterns. This heightened awareness will enable them to make conscious choices that promote better alignment and reduce unnecessary tension. The principles of the Alexander Technique offer valuable insights into how to move with greater ease and efficiency, benefiting not only the feet but the entire body. Practical Anatomy This session will cover practical anatomy, focusing on the structure and function of the feet. Participants will learn about the various bones, muscles, and ligaments that make up the foot and how they work together to support movement. As we conclude this workshop, we encourage participants to continue practicing the techniques learned and to remain mindful of their walking patterns and body alignment. With consistent effort and awareness, the benefits of this workshop can lead to lasting improvements not only in foot function but also into the overall ease and enjoyment of movement. We look forward to seeing you in the workshop and embarking on this journey towards better foot health together

We will meet at the Northern Soul Chips Shop for lunch. Then walking along the beach, 🏖️ . Dogs are welcome

Join us for a fun and laid-back social mixer where parents can connect, share experiences, and build a supportive network. Whether you are a new parent or have been on this journey for a while, this event is the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and bond over the joys and challenges of parenthood. Come relax, unwind, and make new friends while enjoying some light refreshments. Let's create lasting memories together on this baby journey!

Imagine beginning the New Year feeling refreshed, optimistic, and genuinely excited about the people around you. You step into *Greenhouse Kitchen + Bar* in Tysons Corner and are immediately met with warm lighting, sleek modern design, upbeat music, and an inviting buzz in the air. Cocktails are being poured, conversations are flowing, and the energy feels intentional—stylish yet relaxed, lively yet comfortable. It’s the kind of space that makes you feel at ease the moment you arrive. Now imagine connecting with open-hearted professionals from different industries—people who are curious, engaging, and ready to start the year with purpose. This curated singles mixer is designed for authentic camaraderie, companionship, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re open to romance, new friendships, or simply expanding your circle with positive, like-minded people, this evening is about real moments and shared energy—not profiles or algorithms. Picture conversations unfolding naturally as you move through the space—laughing over small plates, bonding over shared experiences, and feeling that subtle spark when you meet someone who resonates. Light icebreakers help set the tone, but nothing feels forced. The vibe is social, uplifting, and genuine, allowing chemistry and connection to develop at your own pace in a setting that celebrates being yourself. This is your invitation to start the year differently. Put the apps away, step into real life, and choose presence over swiping. Imagine the friendships, connections, and possibilities waiting for you as the year begins—we can’t wait to welcome you, meet you, and kick off the New Year together! **Can't make this event? Sign up for FREE on our website to get updates on future events:** [www.Intelligent.Events](https://www.intelligent.events/ "https://www.Intelligent.Events")

**⚡ Laugh a little. Meet new people. Leave feeling lighter.** Join us for a relaxed, small-group afternoon designed to break the winter slump and help you meet a great crowd — without awkwardness, heaviness, and something that just feels fun! 🔁 You’ll move through short, easy rounds of fun conversation games that make it simple to talk, connect, and find people you naturally click with. \*\*\* 📍 **Location:** Rented facility in Ashburn (zip 20147). Exact address shared after RSVP. 💵 **Fee:** $12 per person 🕒 **Time:** 2:00–4:00 PM ☕ **Coffee + light snacks on me.** \*\*\* **🔍 What You’ll Experience** • Quick, low-pressure rounds • Light games that get people talking (and **laughing**) • A mix of new faces in every rotation • A warm, friendly space — not surface-level, not heavy \*\*\* **💼 Who It’s For** • Divorced/Separated or midlife professionals starting fresh • Entrepreneurs, builders, and people who value meaningful conversation • Men + women who want a fun, relaxed way to meet others in the same chapter of life \*\*\* 📊 Most attendees are in their 30s–40s–50s — grounded, growth-minded, and ready for something different. 🌐 Explore more: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co/)

**Leave behind the rushed pace of traditional speed dating and embrace a more relaxed approach to meeting new people, facilitated by a [Dating Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) with prepared Conversation Icebreakers.** **💕 All ages!** **💕Different sections for different age groups.** Must[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)** (Event is posted on multiple platforms, attendees list on Meetup does not reflect the actual number of RSVPs) * Easy-going meet & greet to socially warm up * Prepared questions to facilitate meaningful conversations and to assess compatibility * Engaging discussions in small groups * Opportunity to talk to every single person present * Stress free matchmaking by the coach after the event (no need to ask for contact info on the spot, you will get it after the event) * Fun games to play together Whether you are an introvert or an extravert, welcoming and easy-going environment is guaranteed. You won't have to sweat the small talk, and event will be structured to make connecting effortless. **Cost:** $35 (Pay through[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1299434316019?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1815006977729?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1815006977729?aff=oddtdtcreator)or **Venmo** to @Irena-Polyakova (1469) include your email address) **Location**: Uncle Jalapeno Restaurant in Herndon. **Time**: 3:00 pm \~ Irena

Imagine beginning the New Year feeling refreshed, optimistic, and genuinely excited about the people around you. You step into *Greenhouse Kitchen + Bar* in Tysons Corner and are immediately met with warm lighting, sleek modern design, upbeat music, and an inviting buzz in the air. Cocktails are being poured, conversations are flowing, and the energy feels intentional—stylish yet relaxed, lively yet comfortable. It’s the kind of space that makes you feel at ease the moment you arrive. Now imagine connecting with open-hearted professionals from different industries—people who are curious, engaging, and ready to start the year with purpose. This curated singles mixer is designed for authentic camaraderie, companionship, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re open to romance, new friendships, or simply expanding your circle with positive, like-minded people, this evening is about real moments and shared energy—not profiles or algorithms. Picture conversations unfolding naturally as you move through the space—laughing over small plates, bonding over shared experiences, and feeling that subtle spark when you meet someone who resonates. Light icebreakers help set the tone, but nothing feels forced. The vibe is social, uplifting, and genuine, allowing chemistry and connection to develop at your own pace in a setting that celebrates being yourself. This is your invitation to start the year differently. Put the apps away, step into real life, and choose presence over swiping. Imagine the friendships, connections, and possibilities waiting for you as the year begins—we can’t wait to welcome you, meet you, and kick off the New Year together! **Can't make this event? Sign up for FREE on our website to get updates on future events:** [www.Intelligent.Events](https://www.intelligent.events/ "https://www.Intelligent.Events")

Finally, a young adult group that includes ages 25+ This is a brand new small group! We will be studying the sermon on the mount 🤗