Summertime update - Cologne, Germany

Since May, we have been having dream-like summer weather here in Cologne. Mid to high 20s- mid 30 degree C weather! Something we never could have imagined happening in Ireland. Sure it has rained with a few thunderstorms here and there, but so far this summer has been amazing. 

One thing I really like about Germany, is how active the people are here year round. But in summer that intensifies even more. People out on bikes, hiking, swimming, hanging out in the sun, just enjoying life. And one of the other nice things, is that there is so much to do here in Cologne. Nearly every weekend there is some sort of event going on, salsa dancing, party in a park, food festival, wine festival, concert, etc. It can be hard not to find something to do here. On top of that, all the outdoor swimming pools, lakes nearby, hiking paths and forests,  beer gardens, outdoor cafes/restaurants, plus the river Rhine. It is really amazing here during the summer. 

We had the wedding in Dublin in June, then we were at a second wedding back in Dresden in July. We've been swimming in pools and lakes. Hung out at the Rhine on the hottest day of the year so far, checking out the lunar eclipse. And hoping to go camping at some point during the summer as well! I'm also playing with a volleyball team, so keeping pretty busy. 

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed, with all the small things I have to do, renewing my passport, preparing for my German language C1 test, and a bunch of small stuff for work so I can try to become independent. But trying to take everything one step at a time. There will always be something to do, but I am looking forward to that day, when all my to-do tasks are completed, and I can focus on my own personal goals going forward again. 

How is your summer going so far? Hopefully as well as mine! 

Until next time...