This weekend, we’ve been gripped by a smothering heat wave. I’ve spent a lot of time down at the river in my beach chair. Thursday night, my neighbors and I took a picnic to the river and drank wine spritzers alongside the rest of the town who had the same idea to escape the heat.

I actually love this weather. The summer here has been too chilly for me. I love any chance to wear a tank top, bathing suit and flip flops (oh, I’m sorry, no one warned the Germans that I would be walking around in beach attire whenever possible).

So, as much as I can handle the weather, I have some tips that could make this heat wave more bearable for all of us.

1. a/c. I know this might seem crazy, but when it’s 90+, a little air is helpful. Especially at the gym. I am shocked no one has died during a workout.
2. ice. Again–not such a popular item here, but could be useful in the situation we’re in. While we’re at it, water refills or just water at all would be appreciated when eating out.
3. deodorant. I must say, the US has the upper hand here. It’s been a smelly weekend. I’ve been applying deodorant day and night. I think I am the only one.

When I wasn’t at the river this weekend, I spent some sweaty afternoons finishing my last piece of furniture. It feels really good to be done with this. My place is coming along (and open for visitors)! I am pretty proud of this monster of a sideboard. It even has working drawers! Nothing has made me respect the Amish more than this 3 day long project.