The military... so far.

I'm having a great time in the military. Really. Granted I'm not IN the military, just immersed in the culture of it. Everyone's so nice. It's like a giant family. There's all colors of people. It's laid back. I laugh all the time. I got paid to walk around base and orient myself and go to the grocery store today. I took a class and test this morning and now have a temporary European driver's license- the official one'll be in the mail in about two weeks. Tried out the postal system today- US rates--- so easy. I got a military library account set up, which is good for all of Europe.
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Yesterday, I met my techs and they're two black ladies- one about 30 and the other about 45 I'd guess-- both cool and helpful and asked, "coffee or tea" and what equipment I needed ordered. They said it's very laid back, "We listen to a lot of music back here." We'll see. I'm working with one other optometrist- Amber-something- (so our dept is all ladies) who I think is probably a newish grad. I'll only be seeing military and their families and contactors like myself also. All English- speakers. Currently the optometry department is housed in a portable building, as they've constructed a new one, which we're scheduled to move into in March 2010.
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I decided against moving to the other pension. I was told the other place was a party place and I wouldn't get much sleep. So I am staying where I am where my bike is secure also. I've been scoping out cars- saw a cute (black inside and silver out) 1998 BMW 325i for 6,000 Euros, which is about $9,000 US or an adorable (black with camel leather) 2005 of the same for $17,000US. Any opinions, anyone? Then also a newish Ford Ka which is mini and gets kickin' gas mileage for 3400 euros. just have to keep my eyes peeled. I'm sure I'll figure it out.