Writing Children's Picture Books

This is the sign you've been waiting for. Come write with us Sunday at 7:30 am at Kaldi's Social House in Arlington. Kaldi's opens at 7. Grab a coffee and join the group! We generally have 10 to 14 writers attend each week, and new folks are welcome to drop in anytime. Intros start at 7:30 am. We will write for one hour. After writing, feel free to debrief, share thoughts or get advice. Our meetups are a safe space for writers to work on their craft. No one will read or critique your writing. Kaldi's Social House website: https://www.kaldissocialhouse.net/ \* Resource \* Many thanks to Justin for putting together a shared file of resource discussed at the meetings. Feel free to add to it! [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13LONNjZvsO5hEXM7NsBnWCgy3GgPgjAbQxE0lPxp7hc/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13LONNjZvsO5hEXM7NsBnWCgy3GgPgjAbQxE0lPxp7hc/edit?usp=sharing)

Join us for a discussion of ***The Hollow Half: A Memoir of Bodies and Borders* by Sarah Aziza** Here's the summary: With the lucidity of a poet and the precision of a journalist, Sarah Aziza embarks on a quest to understand her family legacy, tracing three generations of diasporic Palestinians—from Gaza to the Midwest to New York City, and beyond In October 2019, Sarah Aziza, daughter and granddaughter of Gazan refugees, is hospitalized for an eating disorder. This brush with death becomes a rupture which brings both her personal and ancestral past into vivid presence. The hauntings begin in the hospital cafeteria, when a cup of apricot yogurt stirs the taste of Sarah's childhood, summoning the familiar voice of her deceased Palestinian grandmother. In the months following, as she responds to a series of ghostly dreams, Sarah unearths family secrets that force her to confront the ways her own trauma and anorexia echo generations of Palestinian displacement and erasure—and how her fight to recover builds on a century of defiant survival, and love. As silences break, heartbreak opens onto possibility. Sarah begins to grasp the ways her legacies echo and inform one another—through tragedy, and through love. She begins to resist the forces of assimilation, denial, and patriarchy, learning to assert herself in new ways that honor both her ancestors and herself. Weaving timelines, languages, and genres, The Hollow Half probes the contradictions and contingencies that create “history.” This stunning debut memoir ends in a cri de coeur for a world in which every body has a right to contain multitudes. **Let’s meet at Caboose Commons in Fairfax to enjoy some good discussion and meet new friends.**

We will meet outside as long as the weather is nice. If not, we will move inside. Look out for a comment the morning of each meeting with our exact location. As we are meeting in person, please remember to bring something to read as we usually spend some time sharing our current reads and/or reading when meeting in person. As a reminder, there is no assigned reading; please bring whatever you are currently working on. This group is super casual, sometimes we read and sometimes we talk the whole time. **** NO SHOW POLICY: Due to the high number of members on the waitlist recently we are having to reinstate our no-show policy. If you sign up and no-show to 2 events you will be removed from the group. Reminders are provided weekly to change your RSVP to allow those on the waitlist a chance to come to the meet-up, no 3rd chances with be given. Please be considerate to your fellow members. Thank you! I look forward to reading you!

This meeting will be dedicated to talking about the entirety of "The Sailor Who Fell From Grace With The Sea" and New Direction's "Death in Midsummer" short story collection, both by Yukio Mishima https://www.ndbooks.com/book/death-in-midsummer/ The current list of short stories we will be focusing on is "Patriotism" and "Death in Midsummer," list pending to change. Due to recent high popularity of our meetings, we will be having a temporary moratorium new members until a level of member cultivation has occurred. We estimate this will be around July 1st. We will be meeting in the National Portrait Gallery Atrium. To stay up to date with events and discuss meetings or books, you can join our Discord group. Please message me to get added.

Log off for a bit and create your own bookmark while connecting with fellow book club members irl. Supplies provided & you’re always welcome to contribute supplies! more RSVPs available on GroupMe *Black Lit. Book Club is a closed affinity space for Black women, femmes, and nonbinary readers. All Black Lit. events are intentionally designed to provide a safe, supportive environment where Black readers can connect with one another in real life. To preserve the purpose of that space, attendance is limited to those who identify within that community.*

We will be holding the Monthly Poetry in the Garden meeting on June 7, 2026 in the Club House at Schrom Hills Park, 6915 Hanover Pkwy, Greenbelt MD from 3 - 5 PM. All are welcome to join us and there is no admission charge. Bring your favorite poem, your own poem or just come and listen and enjoy. We will have refreshments to help enjoy the mood.

Bring your paints brushes and supplies and let’s meet at the park to paint.

Next up is Open City, the cafe of the National Cathedral. You can enjoy a drink and snack while you sit at the tables, or wander around the cathedral to find a subject. https://www.opencitycathedraldc.com/

Photography Isn’t Dead! You’re not becoming “an AI artist.” You’re becoming a **creative director** who uses every tool to create emotion, identity, and visual *impact.* What has AI, it didn’t kill photography. It killed *generic* photography? ✅ How photographers can adapt & thrive. ✅ Which niches are most future-proof. ✅ How to mix photography *with* AI to *increase* income. Let's meet photographers, models, makeup artists, hairstylists, stylists, fashion designers let's talk about it

📚 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.

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-07-iphone-photography Learn to use the iPhone camera and the settings for creative image captures. Join Michael Koren at the National Gallery of Art and learn techniques for exposure, composition and focus. Tap into your creative side through smartphone photography. Using our iPhone cameras, we’ll explore the Museum's offerings from abstract sculptures, colorful paintings and wall hangings, to the architecture of the building as well. We’ll find endless photographic opportunities perfect for iPhone photography. We’ll start with the basics of learning to use the iPhone camera and review the settings for optimal image capture to pro tips and techniques that produce the best results. The number of photography apps available seems endless and can be very confusing when trying to choose what to purchase. Michael will cover one of the most exciting apps for image processing so you can achieve your artistic vision. This class is designed for users of iOS mobile devices. The app info will be included in your confirmation letter (the app is free). Topics include: • Proper techniques and settings for iPhone image capture • Tips and techniques for using the iPhone’s native camera • Learn exciting editing tools • Hands-on capture and editing • Image critique and feedback For more information about the Gallery, visit their website, https://www.nga.gov/index.html Participants will need to bring a fully charged iPhone. A charger is a good idea too as photos quickly drain the batteries. Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com. *** **THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-07-iphone-photography

Our picnic will be at Montrose Park (3099 R St NW, Washington, DC 20007). Please, bring your prepared dish, beverages, snacks or dessert; and enjoy your time with other amazing French speakers, speaking French. We will provide Plates, Cups, Eating Utensils, Napkins and an Ice Chest for drinks. All members+family (including children)+Significant others+Pets+friends are welcome! If you haven't decided yet on what you are going to bring, we would like to give you a tip. Otherwise, bring whatever you are comfortable with. This has worked in the past, so please help make it a fun, food & drink filled event by following the instructions below: 1. If your last name is A- H : something like meat, veggies, etc. 2. If your last name is I- O : something to drink (alcoholic or non). 3. If your last name is P- Z : something for the table (side, salad, dessert, etc). Food should be ready-made. ***You MUST bring a plate or a drink to participate.***

Theme: Gentle Flow Yoga & Meditation Level: Beginner to Intermediate Time: Sunday 9:00 – 10:00 AM Location: Bluemont park Cost: Free What to bring: Yoga mat, water, comfortable clothing Location: Basketball court of Bluemont park, google map 38°52'06.2"N 77°07'52.0"W Parking: South Bluemont Parking Area About the session *A gentle flow-based yoga session to move, stretch, and reconnect with your body. We may include simple breathing techniques and a short meditation session. - This is not a high-intensity class. You are welcome to go at your own pace and take breaks anytime. *Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners. Notes - Light food is recommended before practice *Outdoor session: feel free to bring sunscreen, towel, or anything you need - Please be mindful of your own body and practice within your limits By joining, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being during the session. About the host 200h Yoga Teacher Training (2019) Long-term yoga practitioner and part-time teacher 🌿 May you find a moment of ease and connection in your practice. **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

Big Ohio Book Con "A convention for book lovers all over Ohio (and beyond)! Author panels, signings, bookish vendors, meet & greets, and more!" Featuring more than 100 authors, more than 50 bookish vendors, and plenty of exciting activities throughout the event! Travel with fellow book lovers or meet us at the event. Park for free at the Medina Convention Center, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, Ohio 44256, then hop aboard one of the free shuttles whenever you’re ready for your next bookish adventure! The convention spans three neighboring locations, giving you even more to explore and enjoy.

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321) Location: The Goat River South 219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 Street parking is free on Sundays [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.