Becoming Official in Berlin

We have learned that before we can open a bank account, purchase a cell phone, join a gym, have the utilities put into our name, or do anything official we need to register with the local authorities. That's how the they keep track of everyone, citizens and non-citizens.

But before we can register with the authorities we need to prove we have a place to live and that we are gainfully employed. We are currently gathering the paperwork to make registration possible.
I guess you cannot just show up in Germany and live happily everafter:)