Settling in.

In one short day what a swing of emotion! The day started out with a bit of fear and trepidation as I launched myself into officialdom. With trusty map in hand I bicycled my way to the Ludgeriplatz where foreigners must register their residence here in Münster. I asked a few questions, drew a number and waited with the Russians, Turks, Africans, etc. When my number finally appeared on the electronic sign I was swept away in a flourish by a friendly, smiling bureaucrat. For a moment it appeared there might be a delay while they sent to Erbach for the records of my previous residence in Germany, but in the end, it was decided to just take care of matters today. That was a relief since I couldn't open a bank account until I had the residence permit. From there to the post office bank was a direct route. The gentleman there noted we were both born in 1946 but went ahead and set up the account anyway. Now, all I have to do is wait for the account number to be mailed to me. When that happens in a few days I intend to take care of most of the financial matters online.

Then on to Edeka, the local supermarket. On the way I ran across a delightful bakery with the most delicious raisin rye bread. Not until today did I think I could enjoy bread so much. This loaf is a winner. Later in the day Irmhild picked me up by bicycle and took me to her house to meet the English colleagues over coffee. Well, it turned out to be champagne, coffee and two different kinds of cake: just delightful. Simone brought along the little black schnauzer which she is babysitting. It even wore a diaper. Elizabeth brought her two young sons who definitely knew how to enjoy cake as well. During this time together I began to feel much more at home here and by the end of the day most fear and trepidation had dissapated. Renate reminded me that new colleagues are supposed to bring treats to share on Thursday so I began planning to bake oatmeal cookies. On the way home I bought most of the necessary ingredients at Edeka on the corner. I found a recipe online and plan to bake tomorrow after the PHHS group visits me. So in fact I was at the market twice today. It seems it is easier to buy a small amount whenever I ride by. Only two more days until my school duties begin!

First Day as a Fulbrighter in Münster

So many new sensations! Arriving in Münster by car, driven from Wittenberg in my own Passat Diesel Stickshift by Tina, and making it up the 2 & 1/2 flights of stairs, I can now say: "I am home"! At least for a year, I will call this comfortable, light-filled abode my home. The sun is out and I hurry to Bui Zweiradfachgeschäft to pick up the bicycle which Flavia had lovingly dropped off for repairs before her departure. Everything about this bicycle will be significant to me this year for I intend to become a typical Münsterian and ride regularly. I will learn to keep the seat covered with plastic in case of rain. I will stay in the bicycle designated lanes and hold to the right so that the speedsters can get by quickly.
I hear children in the nearby garden playing in between rain. I got to listen to a bit of a CD but then couldn't figure out how to turn it on again. I finally figured out the television and thereby entertained myself during a rice dinner, my first attempt to cook on Flavia's stove. It's cold enough for a sweater although it is mid-summer. Tomorrow I will find the office where I must register as a resident, something a bit strange for an American. Then I will be taken for coffee and cake to an English teacher gathering, something I am very much looking forward to. I am not supposed to talk shop and I will try my best.