Better late than never! I had about two hours to kill on the train from Bolzano to Verona so why not write a monthly recap?

June was busy during the first half and chill the second half.

I packed up the classroom, administered and graded final exams, graduated some of my students, and said goodbye to yet another academic year.

The kids and I went camping!

We went swimming at the local health center (YMCA) on weekends.

I maintained my exercise routine- I went to lift weights three to four times a week. Still following along with dr Simms perimenopause workouts. Lifting, heavy and less reps.Because of heavier weights, the routine is shorter- about 25 minutes. And I love that.

My son wrapped up his jiu jitsu practice after winning the tournament! He is unsure whether he will continue in September. I truly hope he decides to continue. However. My husband and I were bringing him to BJJ two to three times a week and it felt like A LOT.

My daughter wrapped up her piano practice, after consistently taking lessons for 2.5 years. She is adamant she does not want to continue. She is opting for dance instead. I am, of course, saddened by her decision.

Both kids are continuing with their gymnastics venture in September.

I had about two weeks of a slower pace living – in between my work being finished and our trip. The kids and I filled the time with parks, splash pads, library, and just bumming around the house.

We went down the Jersey shore.

July

July started with a crazy and unexpected thunder storm that took out our power for FOUR days. Additionally, we were in the middle of a terrible heat wave. We were about to leave for Italy and didn’t feel good leaving without power being off at the house.

Thankfully, power came on when we were at the gate- about to get on the plane!

We discovered Venice.

We discovered the Dolomites and Seiser Alm.

July will mostly be travel because we are back from Italy on July 30th.

I am finishing this post sitting on the rocky beach on the shores of Lake Garda. We arrived in Bardolino (a small town on the lake) yesterday after a grueling day of public transit. So today was an entirely beach day at the lake.

How was your June? One thing you wish to share that sticks out in your memory? How is July going for you?

Pic on the front: my son R yesterday after we have boarded yet another bus.