Today is the big day!

Today marks Brenda's international singing debut.  She is feeling in good voice and is very excited.  The show starts at 7:00pm or 19:00 as all the clocks say here.

We haven't posted anything over the past few days mainly because there hasn't been much to say.  We are trying not to blog the minutiae of our lives.  Currently we're renting a nice apartment until Sunday at which point we finally get to move into the furnished apartment where we'll be for the next two years.  It is on the north side of town (Nordend) and is just 5 or 6 subway stops from the opera house.  We can't wait.

I have attempted twice this week to get a residence permit.  Both attempts proved unsuccessful.  I can get a residence permit based on Brenda being my wife and her having a job but then I would not be allowed to work.  I don't really see a problem with that but Brenda thinks we'll actually have to pay our bills.  The other option is I get a job  and then I get a residence permit that allows me to work.  I need a contract to get a residence permit and I need a residence permit to work.  Or I could go stand down by the labor pick-up sign by the river with the other undocumented workers.

Our impression of the food over here hasn't been great.  To our taste buds the food is quite bland.  This is with the exception of breads and cheeses.  They have bakeries everywhere here and their stuff is fresh and amazing.  The cheese we've bought has been great, too.  Whenever we go out to eat, though, we've been pretty unimpressed.  I don't think we've eaten at any authentic German restaurants, whatever they may be.  I guess I just need to wander through Frankfurt until I see a huge sign that says SCHNITZEL.

We want to thank all of you who take the time to read our blog.  Your comments are also greatly appreciated.  This blog is a great way for us to stay connected with you and we hope you are enjoying following our adventures.  Tune in next time to hear how the Magic Flute goes this evening.  Until then, Tschüss!