Saw a man about a bike

So my day started when I went to see a man about a bicycle. I had gotten the directions to the shop yesterday from a woman at the foyer and when I dropped by he said he didn't have a used bike at the moment, but might be able to have one for me in the morning. It was a little suspicious, I mean, where was he going to come up with a bike overnight!?! But I was certainly curious. So I went back. And he showed me a red street bike. It's the right size and he said it was in really good condition. He also said it wasn't going to cost that much. I said I'd think about it, but by the time I was 2 blocks away, I decided I didn't want to wait any longer! I went back and said I'd take it, and he said it'd be ready by 9am!

In the rest of my day, I braved the bus system and went all the way out to the IKEA on the outskirts of Metz. I'd never been to an IKEA before, but wow, it was quite the experience. I got some plates, bowls and silverware, and linens for my bed. I also got a really cute thermos to take my tea to school in when it's cold during the winter. And really, during any time of the year!

Then I met another English assistant who is living in the foyer, and we went grocery shopping. And then I made my first dinner in my little studio! Apartment pictures below (click for close-ups).

The Porte des Allemands, over the Seille River - conveniently located just across the street from the bike shop... rather, the bike shop located itself across the street from the porte!

My bed with pretty new sheets and quilt

Table and chairs

The kitchenette

My desk, "for the students, or for you, since you're going to be planning lessons," one of the women said.

Great dinner: taboule salad, beet salad, fresh baguette and brie - can't wait until I can make my own salads and soups and lots of other things!