Here is your weekly SSA Connection – Hope you enjoy!

The benefits of not being a jerk to yourself

After more than two decades as an anchor for ABC News, an on-air panic attack sent Dan Harris’s life in a new direction: he became a dedicated meditator and, to some, even a guru. But then an anonymous survey of his family, friends and colleagues turned up some brutal feedback — he was still kind of a jerk. In a wise, funny talk, he shares his years-long quest to improve his relationships with everyone (starting with himself) using loving-kindness meditation, and how it can boost your resiliency, quiet your inner critic and simply make you more pleasant to be around.
Click here.

Barefoot Contessa’s Meatloaf

Here is an easy recipe for a dinner staple that’s perfect in the cooler weather.
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Silver Sneakers: Exercises to Help You Get up from the Floor

Getting up from the floor can be difficult for anyone at any age. Regular exercise and strength training is key to building your whole body’s strength. These 4 exercises will target your upper body, core, and lower body to help ensure you don’t have difficulty getting up.
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History of the Holidays: All About the Pumpkin

Check out this short video about how the pumpkin became so popular at Halloween.
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Upcoming Alexandria Library and Other Events

Beatley Friends’ Book Sale – Saturday, October 15: 10:00am – 4:30pm – Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library

Shop a giant selection of books, DVDs, CDs, and more!
Click here.

Paws in the Park – Sunday, October 16: 11:00am – 4:00pm –  Oronoco Bay Park

Join Alexandria Library and the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria at Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison Street, for a family-friendly festival celebrating pets!
Click here.

Burke Book Club – “Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia – Wednesday, October 19: 3:30pm – 5:00pm – Virtual

Please join us to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a discussion of “Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia. Click here.