Heatwave

It’s been so damned hot … I never NEVER expected to see temperatures reaching 37 degrees in Lille but trust me, it did!!  Now it's nicely levelled out in the 20's with the odd bit of rain (strangely refreshing).  Hopefully it will hold out during this weekend (the braderie).  The braderie is the biggest flea market in Europe... wow! And I'll be working in the restaurant... our body's are going to hurrrrtttt.

Two weeks ago I was in Paris, and the heat was astounding.  It was 37 / 38 but with the added humidity of a huge polluted city, it was uncomfortable to say the least… Certainly no sunbathing hehe.  Saying that, I had a great time there seeing a friend I met in Lille last time I was here.  Imagine sitting on a quayside with friends until 2.30am, in strappy tops because it’s such a nice temperature… Reminded me of Barcelona!

Quayside in Paris

Other than that, I had a great holiday.  I spent it mainly at home (Villeneuve d’Ascq next to Lille), and really made the best of loooong sleep ins, lots of sports, good company and very healthy eating.  Trust me it does a lot of good to spend 2 or 3 weeks focussing on your body.  I’ve started losing weight and feel much healthier... you can never underestimate how good that can make you feel.  I have also started playing basketball now and again, jogging, swimming, use my scooter a lot and just bought roller blades! Naturally the roller blades are the most fun (though the diving board at the swimming pool comes pretty close).  I even did some gymnastics and capoeira in the park …

I started back at the restaurant a week and a half ago and la Mission Locale a week ago.  It’s taking a while to get my mind back in shape but it’s going well.  At La Mission Locale, I met two young people last week who are searching for long-term voluntary projects, and who would like to leave in January.  For this they have to find a project by the 1^st October (there’s really tight deadlines), so I’m helping with CV’s and motivation letters, as well as the general research.  The database can be tricky seeing as it’s all in English.  What you have to remember is that the majority of the people writing the project descriptions are not usually native English speakers either, so trying to translate in google translate (or such like) is not always effective.

Right now I'm ridiculously excited because my dad will be arriving in Lille in around 18 hours.  His big adventure will involve checking out the braderie (and lots of photos ;-) ).  I know we will have a fab time (but by Monday we will be exhausted hehe).

Will update you after the braderie .... there are no words to describe the crowds and the atmosphere ... maybe the photos will demonstrate !!!

I've attached below a couple of pictures of the wall I decorated with posters and postcards in our office, as well as my little desk :D

Take care and have a great 2nd half of the week !!!! :D



My desk :-) I use the knife to stir my coffee hahaha



Ain't it pretty ? hehe