Visual Thinking

**🪷**\*\* Cost:\*\* This challenge has a fee. Multiple price options are available. To participate in this challenge, use this link: [Mindful Hiking Challenge Registration](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-mindful-hiking-challenge-nourish-yourself-nurture-community) 📅 Our challenge runs from July through October ✨ **Description:** What if a walk in nature could nourish your well-being while helping others experience the healing power of the outdoors? Join Imagine Well Being's Mindful Hiking Challenge and discover how simple acts of presence can create meaningful change- for yourself and for your community. You'll explore beautiful landscapes, engage in mindfulness practices, and reconnect with the natural world in ways that inspire curiosity, gratitude, and wonder. Whether you hike a mountain trail, wander through a historic landscape, or pause beside a quiet stream, each step becomes an invitation to slow down, notice more deeply, and remember your connection to the living world around you. To guide your journey, the challenge invites you to explore three distinct types of landscapes: * **Historic Sites:** *Where we listen to the stories of the land.* * **National Scenic Trails:** *Where the path guides us back to ourselves.* * **National Parks:** *Where awe expands our perspective.* ⚙️ **How it Works** You choose how, when, and where you explore. Complete the challenge at your own pace, and enrich your journey by joining our hosted, in-person community events—from hikes and bike rides to forest bathing, sound baths, and mindful movement. 📖 Participants receive a downloadable mindful hiking guide for each landscape, featuring sensory and creative invitations to explore with curiosity, deepen awareness, and discover what the land has to share. 💖 **The Impact:** A Practice of Reciprocity Just like a healthy forest relies on an unseen network of roots to thrive, this challenge creates a beautiful cycle of mutual care between you and your community. 🌿 **Nourish Yourself** Modern life floods us with screens, noise, and constant "doing," leaving us disconnected or overwhelmed. Spending intentional, mindful time in nature lowers stress, boosts immune health, and restores physical energy. Consider this challenge your personal sanctuary—a sacred space to quiet an overactive mind and return to your truest self. **🤝 Nurture Community** While you are out on the trail restoring your own spirit, your registration fee and donations ripple outward. Your generosity supports the work of Imagine Well Being, including: * **Accessible Nature Programs:** Keeping our holistic nature experiences affordable and welcoming to everyone. * **Community Helper Workshops:** Providing Wellness-in-Nature and stress-relief sessions for local library staff and other community workers. * **Therapeutic Outreach:** Bringing the healing power of forest therapy directly to residents in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, as well as adults with developmental disabilities. **🌐**\*\* Newsletter:\*\* [Sign up Today for Imagine Well Being's latest news, upcoming events, and retreats!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) **⭐️ Liability Release:** With my RSVP, I hereby confirm that I am physically able to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all events, gatherings, and retreats are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**

Semper Gumby Ride as I'll be winging it when we get to the Mall. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Washington Monument Illumination - 250th Anniversary * START LOC: Washington Sailing Marina * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/uGpBoTzjAS8aNDuf8](https://goo.gl/maps/uGpBoTzjAS8aNDuf8) * START PARKING: Main parking lot by the restrooms. * ARRIVAL: 8:30pm * SPEECH: 8:45pm * ROLLING: As soon as the speech is done. * SUNSET: 8:38pm * LEVEL: Beginner(+) Night Ride * DISTANCE: 11.1 miles * PACE: 12-14 mph (casual pace) * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Bike Lane * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_WASH_MON_LIGHTS_2026 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55951287](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55951287) **NOTE:** * 100 Lumen (or Greater) Front Light (Read all about them here: [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/273787949](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/273787949)) * Red Tail Light * Verify they all have a fresh charge * We will try to keep our bikes with us at the Mall (if you have a convenient bike lock please bring it just in case). **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride : Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** For your pleasure NoVA CBG presents .... the Washington Monument Illumination - 250th Anniversary. * **Showtime:** The 18-minute presentation plays on a loop. * **Visuals:** The projection illuminates all four sides of the monument, showcasing the people, places, moments, and ideals that have shaped the nation. * **The Grand Finale:** Each presentation concludes with the entire monument glowing brilliantly like a massive birthday candle. Basic 'unknown' plan. We will ride our bikes from the Washington Sailing Marina to the Mall. My goal is to be in front of the Smithsonian Castle (in some form or fashion). The projection is on an 18 minute loop and begins at 9pm... depending on what time we get there we will hang our for a full loop before heading back home. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Washington Sailing Marina 1 Marina Dr. Alexandria, VA GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/uGpBoTzjAS8aNDuf8](https://goo.gl/maps/uGpBoTzjAS8aNDuf8) Parking: You can park in the main lot by the restrooms

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

Greetings from the capital! Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people from all walks of life — students, diplomats, travelers, locals — gather to unwind and connect. [[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JFESzopY1OgJ5z4r3RINfL)] Our age range is mostly 20s to 30s. If you enjoy discussing culture, politics, travel, or just want to practice a new language, this group is for you. A perfect blend of diversity and dialogue, right in the heart of D.C.

**The Annual Boomerang Ride is back and ready to deliver another unforgettable day in the saddle!** **🔥50-Mile Route – Ready to test yourself? Join the big boys and take on the full challenge. - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36599221** **🚴40-Mile Route – Prefer a more conservative approach? Enjoy a great ride with plenty of fun and accomplishment along the way. - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35568591** **Both routes will have one rest stop at the Royal Farms on on Deal Churchton Road.** **No matter which route you choose, one thing is certain:** **The Boomerang never disappoints!** **Great roads, great riders, and great memories await. So gather your crew, tune up your bike, and get ready to ride.** **Come catch the Boomerang! 🪃🚴‍♀️💨** **Your bike. Your fitness. Your ride. Your Boomerang.** **This is not an AVS event**

Hey everyone, Pugs, Puggles, and all pug-loving four-legged siblings are welcome! The Meetup is in the front "Puppy" area which is fenced off as you walk into the dog park from the Shirlington side. Pug Hugs, CB

Socrates Café meets twice a month. Though this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, morality, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

It's going to be hot! Let's stay inside and meet at Blue Bottle Cafe at Union Station. Between the architecture and the people, we will have plenty of inspiration. There is also an ongoing exhibit of cars from Ford for the [Ford USA 250 exhibition](https://fordauthority.com/2026/07/ford-usa-250-celebration-features-some-amazing-vehicles/), which might inspire your drawings!

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

On Sunday, July 5, take a break from the heat and drop in to our shop anytime from 11:00 am-3:00 pm for a creative break — **we'll be celebrating Christmas in July with a free collaged tag project!** Get a head start on preparing for the upcoming holiday season and make tags perfect for attaching to gift boxes or hanging from your tree. There’s no fee to attend: supplies and quick project demonstrations / instructions will be provided. **[Learn more on our website »](https://artisticartifacts.com/products/july-5-make-take-gift-tags)** As with all our Make & Takes, children who are appropriately aged for a projects’ skills and to safely handle crafting tools are welcome, but MUST be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.

Flow Beneath the Bells: Traditional Yoga at the Netherlands Carillon Cost: Free Level: Beginner Friendly Take a break from the noise and join us for a refreshing hour of yoga in one of Arlington’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve been practicing for years or can’t touch your toes without negotiating first, you’re welcome here. This class is designed for beginners, but experienced practitioners will also enjoy the flow. During this session we’ll: • Learn foundational yoga poses • Explore simple breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve focus • Build strength, balance, and flexibility • Stretch out tight muscles from work, running, cycling, or life in general • Spend an hour moving, breathing, and reconnecting with ourselves No pressure. No competition. No yoga experience required. What to Bring • A yoga mat or large towel • Water • Comfortable clothes you can move in • An open mind A Few Quick Notes • Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time. • Avoid a heavy meal right before class. Light snacks are fine. • If your plans change, please update your RSVP so someone else can join. Safety Disclaimer Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including yoga. Participate at your own pace and listen to your body. Modify or skip any movement that doesn’t feel right for you. By attending this class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being and participate voluntarily.

Create a range of fabrics to use in your art, garments and quilting, and/or dye garments, vintage linens, trims and more as you learn to use an authentic indigo vat. Bring your own natural fabrics and clothing in silk, cotton, linen and rayon (indigo dye will not work on synthetic fibers). Shibori techniques such as arashi, ne-maki, itajime and kumo will be shown. Prepare your fabrics IN ADVANCE to explore Shibori Stitch Resist techniques. Learn more about this class, download your supply list and pay for your registration on our website: [https://artisticartifacts.com/products/july-5-indigo-dyeing-with-judy-gula](https://artisticartifacts.com/products/july-5-indigo-dyeing-with-judy-gula) *** Registrations for all Artistic Artifacts classes MUST be paid for through **[our website](https://www.artisticartifacts.com/category/wk.html)** or via a visit to our shop at 4750 Eisenhower Avenue. We encourage you to RSVP here, but to ensure your seat you MUST follow through via our website. **[View our complete class policies »](https://www.artisticartifacts.com/classpolicies.html)**

Social Sips & Bites is setting sail in style! 🚢✨ Join us for an unforgettable escape filled with ocean views, elegant evenings, and island indulgence. The Bermuda await. Exciting updates coming soon—keep an eye out!

In previous years, the rangers said they try to get to the park and open the gate by 7:45 AM. From the website: [https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm) Waterlilies are bountiful all over the park! Our volunteers moved the tropical lilies from the hothouses to the display ponds, and they are vibrant. Bird enthusiasts have been enjoying watching the 3 young fledgling red-shouldered hawks, nesting orchard orioles, and kingbirds. Turtles have been laying eggs, and tadpoles and frogs are abundant in the ponds. Every year, we visit Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on July 4th. The lotus flowers start blooming in early June and will be plentiful by the end of the month. The best time to visit is in the morning, as the temperatures are cooler and the flowers close up in the heat of the day, usually around 1:30 pm. I know it is outside of the Virginia Beltway, but it is not far. It is a very unique place in Washington, DC. I will be there in my grey pickup and rain or shine (hopefully shine)! Bring: Tripod Comfortable shoes Water Fully charged batteries Empty memory cards Rain poncho and plastic bags for the camera and lens in case of rain. Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Park Facts Entrance Fee: Free Allow Dogs with lease: No Bathroom: Restroom in the Visitor Center Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave, NE, Washington D.C. 20019 Lat, Long: 38.913003, -76.940142 - Parking Lot Plus Code: W375+6W Washington, District of Columbia Website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm I generally schedule this meetup on the Fourth of July, as I would have the day off. They are open on July 4th, but one year we waited until 9:00 AM until a ranger showed up to unlock the gate, and it wasn’t a holiday. I also want to mention security, as in the past, a photographer in my group was at the gardens and saw someone’s car being broken into in the parking lot. From the parking lot, walk towards the gardens down the path. I usually stay to the left and head into the lotus fields. Please be careful, as there are just dirt paths between the fields, and if there has been a lot of rain, there can be ruts, and I almost twisted my ankle. You actually need a fairly long lens, as the lotus flowers are tall and can be some distance away. A wide angle is only good for some overall shots, and a good-sized macro works as well. Another thing folks do not realize is that the flowers do bloom into September, but have many full blooms. This is one park where you do not have to worry about mosquitoes, as they are eaten by pond beetles, dragonflies, and damselfly larvae, and also by frogs and birds. There is a boardwalk at the back of the flower fields that goes out to a marsh area. I have seen many types of birds and dragonflies in that area. Being there makes it hard to believe that you are in Washington, DC. On the way out, allow some time to check out the small ponds with different lotus and lilies that also attract frogs and dragonflies. Why you will not see any mosquitoes in the park: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/learn/nature/insects.htm By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

You can sleep in on the Sesquicentennial (observed), we’re shifting to the following Friday. But join the local UX community for a chat and some biscuits to catch up. If you were in CA for Figma Config, tell us all the lines and you can tell me how I can animate an SVG without coding it by hand, and why I’d even want to. Thanks to the team at Nationwide of supporting the group.

Welcome to Casual Boardgames, where we enjoy classic tabletop games and social deduction games while bonding over good food, drinks, and great conversations. 
We started this group to meet new people and make new friends, and bonding over games in a relaxed atmosphere is a great way to do that. We currently meet near route 23 and Polaris Parkway, and this is close to areas like Powell, Lewis Center, Worthington, and parts of Westerville and Columbus. 
Feel free to bring your own games or play one of the many games our members bring. If you are inexperienced, we will help you learn. 
Here are just a few examples of the kind of games we play. 
Tabletop/board games: Splendor, Catan, Azul, Dominion, 7 Wonders… 
Social deduction games: Code Names, Chameleon, Werewords… 
IMPORTANT: 
1. While we love playing a variety of games and competing, we are not just about the games. We interact and talk while playing, and this leads to a lot of laughter and fun. If you just want to compete and focus solely on the game, then this is probably not the group you are looking for. 
2. Many people join groups like this and never (or rarely) show up after weeks or months. If you join and never really come, we will eventually remove you from the group as a courtesy to our members. Why? Because limiting group conversations (on the app) to regular members makes communication and planning much easier. Also, while it may be rare, it protects members from people who join because they are interested in following a person instead of having a real interest in our group. If you get removed, it is just because you haven’t come, and we follow this protocol as a courtesy to our regular game players.

Want to see your work shine and put your pride on display? Then come to July's Creativity Circle! We will be making simple Suncatchers with tissue paper! Seats and supplies limited! Come while you can for as long as you like! Westerville Public Library in Meeting Room D.

Most people use LLMs by feel: ask a question, read the answer, decide whether it “seems good,” and move on. That works for casual use. It does not work when you are building software, automating workflows, writing important documents, or relying on AI for anything that needs to be repeatable. In this talk, we’ll look at how to improve and evaluate the inputs and outputs of LLMs using practical measurement techniques. We’ll cover how prompt changes affect results, how to compare outputs, how to build simple evaluation sets, and how math-based methods like similarity scoring can help you move beyond guesswork. This will be beginner-friendly, so even if you don't know anything about AI, you should get something out of it. However, this will be a little more technical than our intro talks. You do not need to be an AI researcher, but programmers and technically curious attendees will get a lot out of it. We’ll cover: * Why “it looks good” is not enough * How to improve prompts by changing the input, context, and constraints * How to compare LLM outputs more systematically * Basic evaluation techniques for accuracy, consistency, and usefulness * How embeddings, cosine similarity, and scoring can help evaluate results * Where automated evaluation works — and where humans still need to stay in the loop By the end, you’ll have a practical mental model for treating LLMs less like magic and more like systems you can test, measure, and improve. LOGISTICS AND PARKING: The talk starts at 7:00 PM. The first half hour is reserved for everyone to get set up and mingle. Free pizza and drinks! The cheapest parking option is to find street parking, which will only cost you a few bucks. Otherwise, park in the nearby veteran's museum lot for $8. It's highly recommended you avoid the nearby $15 garage parking.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia