With the holiday season upon us, we suggest sticking with the fundamentals in the weeks ahead -- giving back, getting outside, and eating warm donuts. Here are three tips for safely celebrating this place we love to call home this weekend and as we kick off the holidays. See you out there!
Eco-Journaling
on the River
Many of us kept diaries in our youth then abandoned the practice as we got older. But reflecting on our experiences with pen and paper can have numerous benefits – from reducing stress to improving sleep to making it through 2020. Join the free eco-journaling workshop in the beautiful urban wilderness of the James River Park System this Saturday at 3 PM. Eco-journaling combines mindfulness and quiet nature observation to help you simply unwind, reflect, and process the week – no writing or journaling experience required. Saturday’s session will be led by Natalie Stickel, a Richmond based writer, artist, educator, and river guide. “I believe healing of ourselves, our relationships, and our communities happens outside,” explains Natalie.
Vitals:
Saturday, November 21 / 3 PM - 5 PM / Meet at Pony Pasture at 7310 Riverside Dr / Bring a mask / All participants asked to adhere to social distancing of 6+ feet throughout the time together in the park
Warm Cider Donuts
at GrowRVA Market
Nothing says fall like WARM APPLE CIDER DONUTS! First Stop Donuts serves their delicious creations out of a school bus named Flubert! A hardworking everyday short school bus turned armored donut transport vehicle, Flubert can be spotted around Richmond at breweries, farmers markets, festivals and events big and small. On Saturdays you can find the school bus at the GrowRVA Market (formerly known as South of the James Farmers Market now at Bryan Park). Order a bag of donuts and hot cider by First Stop Donuts and spend your Saturday morning outside exploring local farms, local food and local arts.
Vitals:
Saturday, Nov 21 / 9 AM - Noon / GrowRVA Market / Masks required at all times (no eating those donuts in the market area, there's plenty of room in Bryan Park)
Holiday Volunteering Guide
by HandsOnRVA
During this time of year, many Richmonders want to find ways to volunteer, donate an in-kind gift, or weave the importance of giving into their holiday plans. While your holiday giving may look different in 2020, there are still many opportunities to give back in thoughtful and responsible ways. The fine folks at HandsOnRVA have rounded up a handy guide that details ways to give back during this holiday season. Doing a Secret Santa or other gift exchange? Ask for, or give, the gift of charity instead. Tell your coworkers or family you’d like a monetary donation in your name for a favorite local cause. Learn more about ways to align your values to organizations doing work in the Richmond region and create a culture of giving within your own fam this holiday season. Check out the Holiday Philanthropy Guide here. Also check the guide for a list of tips for healthy volunteering to keep you safe while volunteering, gathering supplies, and lending a hand this season.
A favorite tradition at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden featuring lights, decorations, outdoor model trains, dinners, hot chocolate & more! All displays are outdoors with safety measures in place. Beginning November 23! Nightly 4-10 p.m.
