The Altstadt (old state) of Frankfurt

It’s move weekend! Yes, I realize it’s only Thursday, but today is another bank holiday where the country shuts down for a day. Friday is called a bridge day–it means most people take that day off too. Friday is when the movers come and Saturday is when I have to go do all my errands before everything shuts down again on Sunday (which will be a major day of rest for me).

I only brought three suitcases with me, but since I was able to air ship a large carton, I have a couple more boxes of tea, books, and clothes. Today, I took two suitcases over three different trains and a ten minute walk to my new place. I have accepted the fact that I don’t have to do it all on my own and will call a cab tomorrow to help me take the rest.

I am now realizing I really only wear about five different outfits and have little need for the rest of my clothes. I’m already preparing to donate clothes and other items I shipped from LA. And I got rid of A LOT of stuff…or so I thought. Since I now have to purchase wardrobes and cabinets for storage, I am going to be very selective about what stays. Let me just say, if I still have anything left from Baltimore, or even SC, it must be very special.

I am simultaneously ecstatic for and dreading tomorrow. Pro: sleeping in my own bed. Con: the whole process of moving. I asked if the movers spoke English and was told they do. So at least I don’t have that working against me.

Today’s small victory was figuring out how to set up a monthly rent debit to my landlord. I had three letters from my bank (in German). One had my online account username. The other had my pin for online access (this is now probably the 7th letter I have with a pin). And the third had a
QR code. I also now have way more papers for my “files” than I do “files”.

I had to download an app, scan the code on the letter, then go online and enter my username and pin. Another QR code came up online that I had to scan with my phone. That gave me a number on my phone that I had to enter online. That was the key that unlocked the hidden temple to my user access. In order to authorize any transaction, I will receive a code online that I have to scan with my phone. This makes no sense to me, but somehow I figured it out. What would a day be without a double dare bank puzzle to figure out? Next time I’d like to take the physical challenge.

Tomorrow morning I’m planning on waking up, biking to my new place, grabbing some food at the market, then heading back to take the rest of my things in a cab. The movers are scheduled to arrive between 11:30-1. Over/under on how long it will take? Italy plays at 6 and I want to celebrate with some pizza and wine.