My Monday with Some Favorites

I'm learning that summers in Shenzhen mean lots of traveling for expats. Some return home, others move on to new places, and many go on holiday. The Shenzhen Women's International Club goes on a summer break of sorts, too. The official activities end until late August, but the expats who stay behind keep them going informally.

So, I started my Monday by meeting up with one of my favorite SWIC groups for our weekly hike. Our group was small and we were missing our leader, but we all love being active and outside.

We chatted and climbed, trying not to be distracted by the numbers that let us know how many steps we have climbed...and how many more we have to go!

Almost halfway there!

The mountain climb was hot today and didn't offer much of a breeze at the top, but we still enjoyed the satisfactory summit picture.

At the top. Chris took the photo

After a quick beverage at Pacific Coffee with the group, I walked to the Hilton to make use of my new fitness membership and take a swim. I love that I can lay out my sweaty hiking clothes to dry while I'm in the pool and sit under the umbrella to relax for a bit. Next to running, swimming might be my favorite thing.

Back at the apartment I was super excited to do #MeanAbsJune day 15 because it's the halfway mark!

mrC and I finally picked up a large knife and cutting board, so after having quinoa and tuna for lunch, I treated myself to a very large container of watermelon. Watermelon is easily my favorite fruit. I could eat it all day.

Before dinner I ran some errands. It was so darn hot out, that I just had to make a smoothie when I got back. It tastes even better than the first one I made because I now have spinach and creamy vanilla gluten free whey protein. Smoothies are such a great treat when it's hot.

I'm still looking for some chairs for our balcony so I can enjoy morning coffee and afternoon smoothies sitting with the gorgeous view. But even without them, today was pretty awesome. I enjoyed so many of my favorite things!


Do you travel a lot in the summer?
What are some of your favorite treats?