Sobriety

🤟 ASL & DEAF EVENT 🤟 Come connect, socialize, and celebrate Deaf culture! This is a welcoming local event for the Deaf community in Woodbridge. We’re excited to finally bring everyone together in one place! ✨ This event is perfect if you want to: Meet new people Reconnect with friends Network and socialize Experience Deaf culture 👥 Who can attend? All are welcome! Deaf & Hard of Hearing Hearing CODAs Interpreters New ASL learners & students This is a great opportunity to practice ASL, meet the Deaf community, and make new friends in a fun and relaxed environment. 📍 Event Details 📅 Date: Friday, February 6, 2026 ⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM 📌 Location: Wegmans Market Café (2nd Floor) 14801 Dining Way, Woodbridge, VA 22191 (Near Crumbl Cookies) 💙 Hope to see you there!

This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the Green, Sustainable Energy and Environment; to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers in the sector and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of green movement. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign areas for each represented INDUSTRIES AND SPECIALIZATIONS; and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular experience, you would like to exchange. Space is limited and advance ticket purchase is required. PLEASE BRING A BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; YOU CAN FLY SOLO TOO:\) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. \- For bottle/table service email \(info@[merevents.co](http://merevents.co/)m) or text at (202) 368-1878. \- Event is 21\+ ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/3/2/b/600_449154059.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/7/a/600_448335994.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/0/2/6/600_448197382.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/1/7/600_448196599.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/8/e/600_434712942.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/9/a/600_434712954.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/1/d/0/event_14553232.jpeg

Join us before the lecture for a casual get together to mingle and chat about science! You can get excited about the lecture, talk about previous lectures, indulge in completely unrelated science, whatever tickles your fancy! We'll hang out at The Board Room for about an hour and a half then make our way to the Powell Auditorium. There's no kitchen at the Board Room, so feel free to bring any snacks or dinner with you! There are, of course, drinks available. As this is a bar, this will be a 21+ unofficial gathering.

This is a laid-back girls night designed for meeting new women, sipping wine, and enjoying a cozy, photo-worthy space—no pressure, no awkward games, no forced icebreakers. Come solo or bring a friend. Stay for one glass or the full two hours. This is an open-mingle, just-vibes kind of night. What to Expect Casual mingling in a relaxed winery setting Cute outfits encouraged (this place is aesthetic ✨) Buy your own wine or drinks at the bar Easy conversations, no structure, no agenda A welcoming group of women looking to unwind and connect The Vibe 🍷 Dress cute 📸 Photo-friendly 💬 Chill conversations 🖤 Zero pressure Good to Know No reservations — we’ll be mixing throughout the space Arrive anytime between 4–6 PM This is a social hang, not a hosted tasting Support the venue by purchasing a drink Who This Is For Women 21+ who want a low-effort, high-quality night out without loud clubs, awkward networking, or staying home scrolling.

As always, the goal is fun. Beginners are welcome. We play until 5 or 6. Parking (Free): Plenty of free street parking available on Sunday afternoons near the playing area. Contact Organizer for exact address and other helpful details Metro: Foggy Bottom Metro Station is an 8 minute walk

**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?

Is it possible to grow spiritually in isolation? It’s quite natural to think about our personal spiritual growth and development in terms of improving our own life, but how does that relate to the real world around us? What if our own personal growth is closely connected to the growth and progress of others? And what if turning our gaze beyond just ourselves to also focus on the progress of others and of our communities not only helps make the world a better place but is actually what helps us grow? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the underlying truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspectives offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on how practicing selflessness and incorporating service to others can actually further our own growth. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore the ways in which self-development is connected with that of those around us. *"Whosoever has lost himself has found the universe and the inhabitants thereof. Whosoever is occupied with himself is wandering in the desert of heedlessness and regret. The "master-key" to self-mastery is self-forgetting."* – Bahá'í Teachings \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

**NOTE: AN RSVP ON MEETUP DOES NOT SERVE AS A BOOKED SPOT. YOU MUST BOOK VIA LINK BELOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.** **You must book your spot through our website: [[Booking Link Here](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/firearm-safety-2-7-26)]** Lesbifriends Travel is proud to partner with certified firearm instructor Paquita Wiggins to offer a comprehensive, safety-focused gun training tailored for queer Black folks. Whether you’re seeking to obtain your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) or a Concealed Carry Permit, this training will provide you with the education, hands-on experience, and confidence needed to protect yourself and your community responsibly. In a welcoming, affirming space, participants will learn firearm safety, self-defense principles, and legal considerations, all while gaining real experience at the shooting range. **Event Details You Should Know:** 📅 **Class Date:** Saturday, February 7 (Classroom Training) 📅 **Shooting Range Date:** Date scheduled by you **🕖Time:** 9 AM - 11:30 AM (for HQL) & 9 AM - 5:30 PM (for CCP) *Local Time Zone is Eastern Time (ET)* **Class** **Location:** Northwest, Washington, DC **Shooting Range:** Baltimore, MD Area *(Exact addresses shared with confirmed participants and will be shared week of event. While firearm safety and protection training is typically a 16-hour process, our comprehensive approach ensures that participants receive the necessary instruction efficiently.)* **Who This Event Is For:** Queer Black Folks looking to learn about gun safety in an exclusively curated, community-centered environment. ### **Course Options & Pricing:** #### **Option 1: Handgun Qualification License (HQL) - $75** ✅ 2 hours of classroom education **(Arrival/Check-in at 9 AM. Class Time 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM)** ✅ Hour of firearm handling (at the range) ✅ All firearms and ammunition provided ✅ Expert instruction from a certified USCCA instructor ❌ No food & drinks included (Feel free to bring your own) **\*IMPORTANT NOTE: This option includes the required training course and certificate, which you will need to obtain your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) in Maryland. However, fingerprinting and the application submission are not included in the ticket price and must be completed separately.** **Since the state of Maryland is responsible for issuing the HQL, you will not leave the class fully licensed. Instead, you will receive the training certificate, which is a required step in the licensing process.** #### **Option 2: Concealed Carry Permit - $300** ✅ 8 hours of classroom education **(Arrival/Check-in at 9 AM. Class Time 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM)** ✅ Hour of firearm handling (at the range) ✅ All firearms and ammunition provided ✅ Expert instruction from a certified USCCA instructor ❌ No food & drinks included. There will be a 30 min lunch break. (You’re encouraged to bring your own food. There are also places to grab food close to the class location.) **\*IMPORTANT NOTE: While firearm safety and protection training is typically a 16-hour process, our comprehensive approach ensures that participants receive the necessary instruction efficiently.** ### **What to Expect:** 📖 **Day 1: Classroom Training (February 7)** * Firearm safety, responsible ownership, and state gun laws * Self-defense principles & legal considerations * Hands-on firearm handling in a controlled setting 🎯 **Day 2: Shooting Range Practice (TBD)** * Live-fire training & confidence-building exercises * Tactical drills & supervised shooting practice ### **💪🏽Why Train With Us?** ✔ **Led by a Certified Instructor:** Paquita Wiggins is a **licensed USCCA instructor with 15+ years of experience.** ✔ **A Safe & Supportive Environment:** Learn without intimidation in a space designed for queer Black folks. ✔ **Empowerment Through Education:** This isn’t just about firearms—it’s about preparedness, protection, and community strength. **Spaces are limited.** Learn more details and claim your spot here: **[Firearm Safety Training](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/firearm-safety-2-7-26)**! **Booking deadline is January 28, 2026.** **Note:** By attending this event, you agree to being photographed. However, if communicated, we will try our best not to capture you in photos and post you publicly. That request must be communicated ahead of time/at the beginning of the event to photographer and host.

Slip into your cutest pajamas and join us for a sweet and sparkling Galentine’s brunch made for cozy hearts and champagne toasts. Think mimosas, fresh fruit, small bites and spa touches that make Valentine’s feel like a warm hug and wellness reset. An intimate celebration of friendship, self-love, and all the joy that comes with slowing down just enough to soak it all in. **What to wear?:** Bring out the pink and red satin pajamas and loungewear - your most comfy self.

The [Simplicity Living Study Circle of Northern Virginia](https://www.coachingwithdanijk.com/study-circle) meets on the first Saturday of each month from 4:00 to 5:30 PM at Lacey Woods Park in Arlington, Virginia. **This is rain or shine outdoor event.** This free community group offers a unique and empowering space for individuals seeking to live a simpler, more intentional life. Led by participant-driven discussions, our circle is designed to foster connection and support as members share their experiences, wisdom, and insights on simplifying their lives. Hosted by members of the Simplicity Living Circle of Northern Virginia, we aim to bring together like-minded people who are passionate about mindful living and environmental care. Whether you're new to the journey of simplicity or looking to deepen your practice, we invite you to join us in this nurturing and inclusive environment.

Join us for a Friday evening of creative practice\* and cozy conversation! Please visit the group page for details on event structure and what to expect: https://www.meetup.com/the-evening-art-society/?eventOrigin=your_groups Guests are welcome, though we request that you please let us know how many to account for. We don't want to run out of snacks! Kids are also welcome, with the understanding that this is a shared space intended to be comfortable for all and conducive to creative work. Reach out if you have any questions. We can't wait to see you! \*Because we ultimately just want to provide a safe, warm space for our community to enjoy on a weekly basis, our definition of this is pretty broad. Want to curl up with a good book? Working on the next great American novel? Looking for a café-like hum as the backing track to doing your taxes? You're also welcome here!

**\*\*\*This group is filled. Check out our next departure on Feb 20, 2026:** **https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/310787716/\*\*\*** Gaze at the Northern Lights, enjoy a sleigh ride, be a reindeer herder for a day, learn about the Sámi culture, visit an ice hotel, catch a fish (or two) through a hole in the ice, taste some good Scandinavian delicacies, visit the ABBA museum...My, oh my! These are just some of the fun activities we are planning to do during this once-in-a-life time adventure! Like all our adventures, this one is crafted from the ground up with the true spirit of Meetup in mind. We handle every little detail before and during the trip, accompany and guide the group, creating a stress-free journey with a laid-back, friendly vibe. No big tour operators, no inflated prices — we work directly with locals to give you authentic experiences and unbeatable value. Come as strangers, leave as lifelong friends — and make memories that stick forever! ***We visit:*** * Stockholm * Kiruna (Lapland) * Helsinki * Copenhagen (optional extension) ***The trip includes:*** \* 2 nights in Stockholm \* A night train from Stockholm to Lapland in a private sleeping compartment \* 4 nights in Kiruna \* 3 nights in Helsinki \* Airfare from Kiruna to Helsinki \* Arrival and departure transfers \* Sightseeing tours in Stockholm and Helsinki \* Boat ride in Stockholm \* Food tasting in Helsinki \* Breakfast daily \* 2 dinners and 3 lunches \* Northern Lights Tour \* Jukkasjärvi Icehotel Half-Day Tour \* Full-Day Reindeer Tour \* Ice Fishing or Husky Sleigh Ride **Price per person, double occupancy: $4770** (we match roommates for those wishing to share) **Price for single room: $6320** ***Not Included:*** x Transatlantic Airfare (we can help you arrange that) x Meals not listed above x Tips and any personal and incidental expenses x Optional extension to Copenhagen The only way to secure your spot is a $500 deposit **\*\*\*Deposit link removed as this date is sold out. You can reserve your spot for our next departure on Feb 20, 2026 [HERE](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/310787716/) \*\*\*** Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).\*\*\* Final payment due 60 days before departure\*\*\* ***[Click Here](https://forms.gle/MqXy8zWAB6pv2dW37)***[ and Fill out this Form if you are making a Deposit](https://forms.gle/MqXy8zWAB6pv2dW37) For a detailed Day By Day itinerary: **[Click Here](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)**[ to fill out our info request form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8) Limited capacity of 14 total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly. \*\*\*Airfare from/to the US not included\*\*\* **OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO COPENHAGEN offered at $590 per person/double or $785 solo occupancy (air from Helsinki to Copenhagen not included)** ***[Click Here](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062)***[ to Message Direct to Anna with any questions including airfare quotes.](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) She can help you arrange the airfare and answer any logistics questions. [Click Here to see all our other fun events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) SOT 2000318-10

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration at [Birding Banshee - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-banshee-february/) Whether you’re a beginning birder or an expert, you’ll be thrilled by the many bird species you’ll find at **[Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve](http://www.loudounwildlife.org/Great_Places_Banshee_Reeks.htm)** south of Leesburg. Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and Friends of Banshee Reeks for the monthly bird walk at this birding hot spot. Bring binoculars if you have them. ***Registration required.*** \*\*\*Questions: \*\*\**Contact Joe Coleman at [jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org).*