Sunday, September 4, 2011

Life returns to (the new) normal...

OK, so the belongings (read:  TOYS) have arrived.  It's much easier to be here now, especially recovered from jet lag and with the promise of school starting on Tuesday.  M will be attending preschool three days per week, although the first day will include shortened days as part of an "induction" period.  Being at home all day is still challenging (especially on rainy days), but we are finding a rhythm.  Definitely better when we get out.

We went bike shopping yesterday.  The advice we received was to purchase a 50 Euro bike and add a 50 Euro lock, but it seems that will be impossible, since used bikes start at 300 Euro.  I suppose we could buy a buy bikes from individuals rather than a used bike store, but that seems like a lot of trouble.  But, a bike is like a car here, so I think it's worth it.  The guy at the bike store explained that the bikes they sell are like BMWs and Mercedes.  I explained that I was thinking more about buying a Toyota. But I suppose we can sell them when we leave.

We interacted quite a bit with locals yesterday:  The bike store, the fish market (where I finally sampled the famous salted herring, which was delicious), and at The Little Gym, which had an open house. I don't think we'll be signing M up for any classes.  It's a schlep from our apartment--15 minutes on the tram, then another 15 minutes of walking at least-- and at almost 400 Euro per semester seems a bit overpriced.  I'm sure I can find another activity for cold, rainy winter days.  It was a really fun day.

Tomorrow there is an open house at M's school.  We can get his uniforms and hopefully some info about his school day, plus he'll be able to meet his teachers and finally see his classroom.

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