...Have a happy new year and may your dreams come true.

Snaps from the recent long weekend - Christmas dinner of SVSQ @ Crystal Palace. Party @ Jimmy's. BBQ party @ Cuong's with the Hoa Nien youth group. Dinner @ Big John in Sans Souci with Nhi and friends from Brisbane. New Year Eve @ Thao's house in Balmain, watching the fireworks with Vi, Lam, Vicent, Jasmine, Jeff, Simon, James, Hong, Joe, Julie, Nam and friends. Lunch @ Aunty with my favourite young nephew. Seafood BBQ @ Vicent's after surf.

Donated $AUD200.00 to the Free The Children for their tsunamis crisis campaign in South Asia.

Rock up to Sunday training session.

...Hanging out with Cuong and Khoi.

...BBQ, drinks and kriss kringle at our head office. Its that time of year where we give thanks to our diligent staffs and hard working drivers, thanks guys. Congrats to the Credit Department for winning department of the year award, and Andrew Gavin, the Credit National Manager.

Also, congrats to Amanda on her engagement.

...I have recently been quizzed with questions like.. What would you have in your perfect life? Who would be with you? What would you be focused on work-wise? How would you spend your recreational time? Where would you live? How would you live? Who would you be? Who could you become?..

In short I'm a SINKWAD: Single Independent, No Kids, With A Dog. Equally I'm also a SIGH (Single Income, Got House) - makes sense, life is beautiful and good.

Lacking in love at the moment. Though sometime we have to sacrifies relationships while in persue of career and wealth. But I'm weak, I'm slowly giving in to a girl called Julie, the girl from my Dragon Boating team.

Footnote: opened an ING bank account to deposit cash saving, saved me from spending on useless things. Lodged in my application for a passport, getting ready for my oversea trip to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia in mid-March 2005.

...Sunday training. Today is the last session for this year (what am I going to do with all these free time?) Our next training starts on the 2nd of January, following by a competition on the 15th.

Visiting my Aunty who just arrived to visit from Vietnam and my favourite young nephew. Aunty brought over a water colour drawing of Hue, cause she knows I like art.

...New toys for my Christmas; firework rockets for New Year Eve, PDA/phone to keep up with my busy schedule over this holiday period.

...Vietnamese-Australian Dragon Boat Team christmas party at Hoang's house. With our own DJ mixing up house music and christmas carols. Hey, someone spiked the punch with Vodka, this is too much fun.

...Picked up my costume/uniform from ChefNet for tomorow Christmas party held at Hoang's place, the dentist, the team coach.

Thursday training with the Dragon Boat team, moderate northeast wind, NNE at 10 knots.

...Playing tennis with work collegues at Belmore; Vince, Anthony, Thao and Khoa.

...My personal financial advisor informing me of potential investment properties in Werribee, Melbourne. They are planning to build a new Myer shopping complex near by. Shes such a darling.

...Drinking at Wilson's house lastnight, got home at 1am. Rock up to Sunday morning dragon boat training. Then over to Anh Nhan house for BBQ with the Hoa Nien Vietnamese Youth Association.

There were two things I found annoying today. 1) It pissed me off when people talk bad thing about my friend when she's not around to defence it. Its not nice. I dont like to be associated with those kind of people. 2) On a gambling table I get pissed off when someone tell me what to do and trying to take over my cards.

...I suppose to go sailing at Lake Macquarie today with Thao, but got held back because of the weather. Yumcha with Nhi (from Brisbane) and friends at Cabramatta. Return home to do some home renovating.

I feel like wandering in the street after dark again, like the trouble maker days as a high school kid. But now I feel like I'm the only one.

...Thursday training after work. Nothing beats the smell of salt water and accompany by team mates. The chance of a shower or thunderstorm. Moderate northeast winds, chilling at times, NNE at 12 knots.

...After long day from work I like to go home watching the news and playing with the SUPRA V6 engine in the garage. Being a handyman at home is fun, guess I got that from Dad side.

I'm planning to do some home renovating during my annual leave holiday of early next year.

...Came home at 3am lastnight. Turning up to Sunday training, then walk over to the Sydney Fish Market for lunch. The seafood there are the best, especially the fresh oysters.. yum

...Christmas is an important occasion in the CEO's calendar, Colin believes Christmas is a time for family to get together and most importantly for the kids to have fun. So every year he organised a day in the park for all the staffs and their kids to have a fun day out. Awards are handing out to oustanding contribution from staffs and drivers. This year it is held at Fairfield City Farm.

Santa didnt give me the present I asked for, I've been a bad boy again this year.

Helping out Olivia with organising the event, couldnt bare letting her manage everything by herself, but she did a wonderful job.

...Friday AMF bowling at Fairfield with the VDBA team. Arcade games, pool and then dinner at Diem Hien

...Congratulations to Khoa Do on winning the prestigious New South Wales Young Australian of the Year 2005 award.

The Australian of the Year Awards recognise Australians with the highest achievement and contribution to Australia, the award highlight people who plays a leading in our community, who are role models for us all. They inspire us through their achievements and challenge us to make our own contribution to creating a better Australia.

...It was OK, the DJs were average, but it was the drugs that provided most of the special effects. Courtesy of Alex, Benjamin and Jinn, highschool buddies.

I'm seeing all kind of colours and shit. Who's that bitch? Fuck this shit is freaking out.

...My little sister is a fan of pharmacy thought I give her a head start by looking for her a job in one of the local chemist store. I made afew calls, thanks to Mrs Carrol at David Yin Chemist, she offering first week work experience and then starting real work from there.

It's a good thing she start working, that means she wont have to bug me for weekly allowance money anymore.

I spotted a great business opportunity near my work area, they starts doing developments to transform the whole area into an industrial estate. Where there are industrial estates there are workers, and workers need food. Opening a cafe or a food franchise business here would be like growing a money tree! Will call up some friends see if they want in with this. None of us need to work at the business, franchising it and paid staffs to do the servicing.

...Playing a game of tennis at Fairfield City Leisure Centre after work.

...I have a fucked up day at the office, I'll have more days like these all through Christmas period. But at the end of the day Olivia's smiles cheered me up.

...Sunday training then heading out for lunch at Vy boyfriend's cafe; EDGE ON ELIZABETH.

...Taking my 4 legged friend out for a walk through the neighbourhood. It's spring season, wild fruits are plentiful and they are screaming out eat me, eat me.

Hoang (cyberboi) came down from Canberra, staying over my place, he's buying a Holden Astra to drive his lady friend around. Coolant water in my car is getting dirty, it time to replace it.

Recieving ticket to Godspeed subzero rave in the mail. Venue; Sydney SuperDome, date; Sat 27 Nov 2004 9pm-7am.

...Sister's 18th birthday and her teenie friends. She's a big girl now, no more dropping her off at the library, its straight to the shopping mall from here.

...Olivia sharing story of her little sister from Jakarta, Indonesia. She'll be visiting Australia next month, its will be heaps good. Showing me photo of her sister, I couldnt see clear because I was driving, she's 18, 1st year uni student, doing photoshoot for commercials. Friendly.

But thats Olivia, shes always talkative. I never once put music or turn on the radio in my car, cause I enjoy her conversation every afternoon when I'm driving her home.

Footnote: Management function tomorow night. Finance department christmas party on Friday.

...Sunday training with the Dragon Boat Team, it was a cruising session.

Lunch at Miss Saigon in Balmain, visit sometimes, it belongs to a friend.

Buggy boarding and surfing at Bondi beach (Bondi is made famous for its sun bathing topless icon). While we're there checking out sculptures and installation arts on exhibits, Sculpture by the sea.

Getting tickets for Godspeed-Subzero rave at Sydney Superdome on the 27th.

...Visiting my 4 legged friend and taking little sister out to Parramatta to shop for her birthday present.

She wanted some LG phone with camera on her end of year 12 and 18^th birthday, but I got her a XDAII Pocket PC & GSM Phone and Bluetooth Headset from Harris Technology instead. That should be enough for her to keep all her assignment schedules, contact details, make calls, take photos, use wireless MSN messenger, watch music clips, and wow the boys. She earns it. I want to mole her into the girl with class, I want to let her experiment with culture and the arts.

The other reason why I got her the PDA cause I can claims it fully back on tax return, so technically I got it for half price :)

...Dear Hong Anh

I'm deeply sorry to hear of your mother pasting away. Receice my condolences. Let time heal all wounds, although we might still be left with a scar. But life is beautiful and good, I hope you'll be positive.

...Remembrance Day, three minutes' silence at eleven o'clock on the morning of November 11 in memory of the victims of the war and the declaration of peace.

Its rainning heavily after work, I couldnt turn up to Dragon Boat Team training.

...Recieving a parcel in my PO Box from Ghost 4, my stuffs I forgot behind while I was down in Melbourne last weekend. The note have the smell of you, miss you much.

...Poor Olivia, she almost cries when I drove her home, the National Marketing manager giving her a hard time again, he's an ass.

Giving little sister $50 for her weekly allowance.

Footnote: need to get a Desktop PC for sister birthday soon.

...Going to the office for a few hours.

Going home, stopping by the 2004 Pet and Animal Expo at Rosehill Gardens for lunch. Its a once a year event for local animal lovers to gather. Dr Harry Cooper of Harry's Practice were also present at the show. I was hoping to meet Katrina Warren, you're a hottie, let me worship you.. I must admit I have an addiction for short hair women, maybe 'cause I like that stay free look.

...DIY, do it yourself changing the headlight bulbs, with a 1994 Suzuki Vitara softtop.

Checking the fuse box for any broken fuse. No? then it must be the light bulb. Pull off the wire harness from the back of the bulb. Remove the plastic locking ring by rotating it. It only needs to rotate a few degrees before it comes off. Pull off the rubber boot. It has a tab you can grab on to. There is a spring clip that holds the bulb. The clip only swings out of the way when it is released, the bulb will come right out.

Now that you've identified the bulb, buy a pair from the automotive shop for $50. Install the bulb in the reverse order.

...Good news said Jian, my manager. I'm getting another pay rise for my role in the system recovery.

Sometimes I turn up to work early because I want to finishing off late projects. On Thursday morning we had our first power blackout, Viet and myself have 15 mins worth of power from the backup generator to shutting down the servers and mainframe system to avoid data corruption. In appreciation, the CEO giving both of us a pay rise.

...Travelling to Melbourne on work assignment with Finn (my little shark friend) and spending the weekend with dearest Ghost 4.

Friday. Flying out early this morning, on a mission, finished by mid-afternoon. Visiting National Gallery of Victoria for Edvard Munch exhibition. Visiting Federation Square for James Gleeson exhibition, I got to see the painting THE PIONEER by Frederick McCubbin on display, one of my favourite artwork I studied back at school. Also on display is LIVING TOGETHER IS EASY, it was amazing. I want to live in Melbourne.

...Dragon Boat Team training, 17 degrees, winds at 27 knots, fresh to strong at times on the coast. Dangerous surf conditions. Despite the condition around 15 of us turned up, thats commitment. It was a fun, cold and enduring session.

No toilet here, everyone pee in the bushes. If peeing is an art I do it exceptionally well. However, we're still keep stricts rules on tossing, littering and keeping the enviroment clean.

...I absolutely love this film, ALL ABOUT LILY CHOU-CHOU (RIRII SHUSHU NO SUBETE), directed by Shunji Iwai, no doubt its the best drama movie I've seen this year. Every scene is rich with thoughts through words and poetic cinematography. Every character is unique and extraordinary living in a brutal reality.

People who knows me say I'm obsessive, abnormal, because I only listens to music from RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE, since 1999. There's something about Rage music that calms me down, addictive and psychedelic almost.

...Give sister $50 week allowance. Together with the allowance from the last few weeks she bought a puppy dog. This one like to crew on smelly socks.

Footnote: two current positions vacant at my company.

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our dynamic team for a national transport company. The head office is located within a developing area in the western suburb of Sydney.

GRADUATE SOFTWARE ENGINEER

o Good understanding of database
o Experience in C/C++ and UNIX shell scripting
o Good verbal and written communication
o A team player
o Good problem solving skill
o Understand and experience with various SDLCs
o Able to work in odd-hours including weekends if required
o Must have own car

Advantages:
o Internet application development
o Open source development
o Microsoft enviroment development
o PC support
o VB.NET, C#, GTK/GTK++, Jave, PHP
o Unix/Linux administrations
o Windows administrations
o UML, Design Patterns, CORBA, Object-Oriented

MARKETING ASSISTANT

o Good verbal and written skills
o Photoshop 7.0
o Mail merge
o Quark Xpress
o Illustrator
o DTP
o Good Microsoft Office knowledge
o Must have own car

...Hoang came down from Canberra and stayed at my place for the weekend, visiting his lady friend, he drove home this morning.

Dragon boat team training was tonnes of fun; splashing water and wet t-shirt were the highlights. I think I'll keep this hobby through to summer.

Couldnt join with the team to lunch. Going back to the office to finishing up some important schedule. Finished at 6pm.

...I found a new plastic friend today, someone discard him on the street so I bring him along to today's adventure.

Cosplay at Animania, those cosplay dressed up characters are cute. I spotted one girl dressing up as hmm.. whatsitname, she has short hair, she was stunning, wow (I hope shes not underage).

Anime fans are in a culture of their own. Happy 16th birthday to Helen.

...We all have our bad days and good days. Today is one of those bad days.

I turned up for Thursday evening Dragon Boat Team training straight after work. Our training home ground is under the Anzac Bridge, it's takes away the stress and added lots of fun and laughter.

...It's been rainning continuously for 3 days, the rain reminds me of a Vietnamese mythology in my childhood, the story of SON TINH and THUY TINH.

Son Tinh was the spirit of the Mountain and Thuy Tinh the spirit of the Waters. The king, Hunh Vuong VI, had an extremely beautiful daughter, and he did not wish her to marry just any prince who came her way. He consulted with his court and hit upon the idea of sending out a proclamation far and wide to the effect that he was seeking a suitable party for his daughter. Princes came from far and wide but none was considered to be a good match for the king's beloved princess. Finally, one day there came at the same time two very handsome young noblemen asking for the princess' hand. Upon inquiry and examination, they turned out both to be equally distinguished, talented, and powerful. The king was in a quandary as to how to choose. Finally, he decided to send them both away, saying that whoever turned up the next day first with the proper wedding gifts would be given the princess in marriage.

The next day, Son Tinh, the Mountain spirit, at the break of dawn was already there with all the proper wedding gifts. He was-therefore given the hand of the princess. Barely had the proceedings been completed when Thuy Tinh, the Water spirit, turned up with his gifts. Having promised his daughter to Son Tinh, the king could not go back on his word. Being of a fiery disposition, Thuy Tinh could not accept his defeat. He sought to challenge Son Tinh to a contest to see who was the stronger and therefo re more deserving of the princess. But Son Tinh simply ignored him, strong in his conviction that right was on his side. Furious, Thuy Tinh called on the waters of the rivers and brooks to overflow their banks and flood the land. In no time the whole l and became a stormy and raging sea that rose day by day and hour by hour, ruining all the crops and ravaging the land.

But Son Tinh was imperturbable in his palace in the mountains; all he needed to do was to get his mountains to rise a little bit higher when the waters threatened to flood them. After several days and weeks of trying to overcome his rival by raising the waters, Thuy Tinh finally had to concede defeat and order the waters to withdraw. This happened at the end of the monsoon but Thuy Tinh was never fully reconciled to the loss of the beautiful princess. Every year he tries to reenact the battle and that was how monsoons came to Vietnam.

...I watched the ARIA (Australian Record Industry Association) lastnight to see one of my favourite band win awards, JET. I'm love Australian bands, but I was sad to see how the Australian music industry is fast becoming carbon copies of the US - where good talents has been exploited.

I dont go to cinema - cause most movies I dont know what its all about; yet they still raved up with catchy commercials, covered by layers of cosmetic Pop culture media and its really making me sick.

I dont wear brand name clothes - cause it make me look like a 2 legged walking billboard.

I listens to:

1. Rage Against The Machine
2. Regurgitator
3. Silver Chair
4. Jet
5. INXS
6. U2
7. Dusty Springfield
8. Radiohead
9. The Dandy Warhols
10. BoA

...Spending most of Sunday morning in the office, finishing off on some projects. Missing out on Dragon Boat Team trainning today.

Dropped by the Morning Glory gift shop on the way home to get some gifts for a work collegue daughter 10th birthday - got for her a box of pencil case with accessories, and a box of crayon. The cheerful checkout girl goes "its a good choice, its better than getting toys for them, some people.." she's kinda cute, I wonder how old she is and if shes still single.. I asked for her name, she said some Korean name, hard to remember. Then I gave a big smile I say thank you and see you later.

...Relaxing Saturday morning, didnt want to sleep in because its a great day outside. Driving my 4 legged friend to Chippin Norton Park to run and play in the sand.

Gave little sister $50 for her weekly allowance.

Had an early lunch, turning up the radio and servicing my car.

...Cuong gave me such short notice to come to Hanh's 22nd birthday, coming to the party straight after work didnt have time to get a present, I feel guilty.

A small memorable birthday at home comfort. Those girls are talkative, I couldnt get a word in.

...Going to Melbourne at the end of the month on work assignment.

...I'm a newbie to the Vietnamese-Australian Dragon Boat Team. I was invited to see the competition at Garigal National Park, Forestville. Its was heaps of fun, I'm considering joining them and turning up to training every Sunday. It will be a fun and healthy hobby.

After the competition we all head out to Mainly beach to chill out.

...There's no place in the world like Sydney. Every weekend is crowded with Sydneysiders out and about Sydney enjoying all sort of festivities. Today's highlight, Sydney's Motor Show. My favourite is the Subaru Forester, its great for weekend drive away to the country side and plenty of room in the back seat..

After the show I found myself in the Royal Botanic Gardens having lunch and continue reading my book.

...I helped an old Korean couple on the road with a flat tyre, they live in Castle Hill travelling here to visit relatives.

I'm looking forward to tonight play's opening night, I came to support Anh Khoa and the art community.

Cabramatta Story play gives us an important insight to Cabramatta, like Delivery Day and The Finished People Anh Khoa explores the secret life of afew ordianry locals living in Cabramatta. For someone like me who called Cabramatta home, I can relates to the characters, so real that it makes you laugh at their tragedy, proud that we're in the lucky country, and weep because the truth hurts.

The play open with a scene in a husband & wife Pho restaurant (typical Vietnamese huh?) envy of their neighbours with big house and new cars. Leading to family dysfunctional. A flash back to the past we witness a girl and a gangster falling in love, like that of Romeo and Juliet, both were trapped in thier circumstances and denied the right to be together.

During the play real life interview footages were shown, one image still echo in my head when one of the interviewee, a muslin, describes how we like to be classified as individual rather than in a group or steoreotype - "Like an apple tree, there bound to be some bad ones. Pick away afew of those bad ones and you're left with a perfectly good basket of apples".

Towards the end all the characters discover their identity and found the key to their happiness. Understand that we are in the lucky country, for most of us life starts from suitcase, to becomes doctors, chef and even singing on Australian Idol.

So what have I learnt from all these? Too much chilli can kill you, and butter knife are great party tricks. I really enjoyed the play..

...Visting Khoi and his little backyard garden.

Picking up Khoi to join Nhi's birthday at Chippin Norton park. I didnt know it was a birthday until I am there, so after the BBQ I drove out to Krispy Kreme in Liverpool to get some desert donuts.

Today's weather was nice, next time I'll drive my 4 legged friend here for afternoon walks.

...Day out with friends to the City of Sydney. FIESTA live performances, featuring South American music group and Latin dance fever.

Here in Sydney, life is a festival.

Gathering more friends around to go Cabra-vale, to spend the night with live band, good friends and unlimited alcohol. Came home at 4AM.

Everyone been pressuring me to commit to a serious relationship. Lillian is nice, smart, funny and laugh at my bad jokes. She's adorable when after one drink her cheeks goes all red.. Ghost 4 in Melbourne is also lovely, she gives me freedom to do what I want and also laugh at my bad jokes.. the problem is they both live too far away.

...Vietnamese Student Association (VSA) of Sydney is organising a theme dinner THE GOOD, BAD and UGLY raising funds for charities.

A chance for me to see some long lost friends again. The supprise of the night is seeing Lillian again, last time we met she was studying Pharmacy in Brisbane. Now shes working as a pharmacist in Canberra. Shes doing really well.

And go the guy in the monkey suit.. lol

...Stopped by Westfield Parramatta to shop for some semi-formal wear.

Anh Khoa sent me an opening night invitation to his latest project, a play called CABRAMATTA STORY - A girl. A Cook. A gangster. A story of migration, freedom and love. Written by Khoa Do, directed by Katrina Douglas. Performers includes Julian Chung, Charlie Daza, Gareth Mealing, Ayfer Mestanov, Nelio Sam, Leng Sing and Victor Tooma.

I'm going to this play for sure, need to cancel my plans to Melbourne on that same weekend.

...What she meant is come over for dinner.

Ghost 5.

...Moon festival (Tet Trung Thu) is also known as Mid-Autumn Festival or Children's Festival. Here in Australia this tradition continues in many Vietnamese-Australian communities, the largest of Vietnamese community is located in Cabramatta.

Tet Trung Thu activities are often centered around children and education. Parents buy lanterns for their children so that they can participate in a candlelit lantern procession at dawn. Lanterns represent brightness while the procession symbolises success in school.

In a Vietnamese folklore, parents were working so hard to prepare for the harvest that they left the children playing by themselves. To make up for lost time, parents would use Tet Trung Thu as an opportunity to show their love and appreciation for their children.

Like the Chinese, Vietnamese parents tell their children fairy tales and serve mooncakes and other special treats under the silvery moon. A favorite folklore is about a carp that wanted to become a dragon. The carp worked and worked and eventually transformed itself into a dragon. Parents use this story to encourage their children to work hard so that they can become whatever they want to be.

I look forward to Tet Trung Thu every year, I'm just a big kid.

...Little sister is turning 18 soon. She'll start dating boys and having late nights with the girls, so spoiling her with a $50-$100 fortnightly allowance.

Someone told me I spoil all the girls around me; mum, little sister, and Ghost 1.. maybe its true.

...Taking my 4 legged friend out for a leak in the park and experimenting with close up with photography.

...Little sister last day at Fairvale Highschool.

...Mum having her Laparoscopic Cholcystectomy operation at Bankstown Health Service Hospital. Visiting her after work to say HI :) and see how shes doing. She'll be back home tomorow morning.

...Ghost 1 called in the early hour of Saturday morning, she booked me today for some re-arranging furnitures, then sex, then shower together, then lunch.

Going back to the office at noon to get as much work complete before everything go live nationally on Monday.

Three more warehouses are still underconstruction.

...We are relocating to our new premises today, the move was a sucess, we got the network and system core running by 2AM. Tomorow coming back to make every piece of tech equipment working and operational.

What I will misses most about the old place are the restaurants and cafe where I go out for lunch each day. Especially HAI YEN NOODLE HOUSE, I eat duck noodle (BBQ duck and egg noodle) there 2-3 times a week. Everytime I stepped in the waitress know exactly what am going to order.

...This is the second night I unsuccessfully attempt at completing my tax return lodge form - I'm really pissed off. But I wont giving up that easily, mistakes and challenges are highlights of my day.

The 2004 eTax kit is available here.

...Its 10PM and I feel like some late night snack, 5 minutes jog to Cabramatta shop to find food. Got myself some nice buns.

...Going to Melbourne again in early October.

...Helping friend moving stuffs into her new castle. Thats Lucky the lucky dog, he get to sit on her laps and get cuddles, can I have some of that?

...Hiking along the Bouddi Coast at upper North Sydney with friends. Its an hour drive from the city but it was worth it. The views were stunning, laid back, relax, eating porkroll for lunch again, typical Vietnamese hikers style. After lunch we get to play in the water, like a kid all over again. We all got our fair share of sun tan today, with all the walking we did everyone will have sexy legs by tomorow.

...I think its time I go groceries shopping.

...Friday. Caught a flight to Perth in the early hours of Friday. It was the longest sunrise I've ever seen, we race against the sun for 2 hours and we lost. Arrived at Perth at 9AM, by mid-day Friday my assignment is finished, next stop is the Rydges Hotel to checkin so I can spent the remainder of the day exploring Perth City and the Supreme Court Garden by the Swan River. My first real meal in Perth is sushi at The Kaiten Sushi train bar.

...Its 5:30PM and everyone is rushing in traffics to get home to their wives. I have no one waiting for me at home so I take a de-tour to mum's for dinner, and pad my 4 legged friend good bye for the weekend. Home cook meal is delicious.

My car need cleaning too, i killed alot of bugs.

...I got afew Gmail invitations, I'm giving them away to my fans.. hehe.

Email me if you are interested. So far some of my invitation went to:

• alex.greyze@gmail.com
• gdhoang@gmail.com
• fxholden@gmail.com
• evilasian@gmail.com
• biancawong@gmail.com
• mscara88@gmail.com

...Vu Lan is a Vietnamese celebration of Mother's Day, in memory of the dead and give alms to the poor. Its an ancient Buddhist mythology story during century A.D.

Today it take form as a rose, at the entrance gate you are given a rose, red rose signify you still have a mother, a white rose means your mother has deceased. I wore a red one.

Even know its pouring rain alots of people still turn up to the temple. Met an old friend, Thinh, we sat and talk about old times how fun life were when we were little monks in the Chanh Phap scout family here. We going to bowling with more friends later this afternoon.

...Got a new pair of runners. Going out to to Canley Vale park for soccer trainning with Cuong, Du, Khoi and their friends.

I'm a lame striker, cant seem to get the ball into the net. So I ended up playing fullback and defence.

Chilling out on the rail track at half time. The track is quite peaceful if no train going pass.

...This time next week I'll be in Perth. So today thought I should do some research about what I need to know and looking up at place of interests. Smart Traveller give good tips for travelling. I'll be staying at the Rydges Perth hotel, I dont have friends there so I probably spent most of my day at the beach, hanging out with the dolphins and animal friends.

Photos copyright by VirtualTourist.com

...Been doing some homework on properties in Melbourne, mainly Ringwood and surrounding areas. Its a "strategic location" my financial advisor said, it has potential in the future. I also came accross this interesting little real estate report about where I currently live, Cabramatta.

...A lazy Sunday morning. This time last week was cuddling under the blanket playing 'show me yours' with Ghost 4.

Today I'm out about playing fetch with my 4 legged friend and teaching him a lesson about where to pee. It feels better if you do it at the STOP sign than on the neighbour's fence.

Going home helping little brother defragement the engine ready for engine modification on the Soarer. Need to upgrade the piston and the converted gear box.

...All the best for our Aussie team competing in the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

...I'm turning 25th today, hey that was quick. Having birthday bash at my workplace was fun, everyone gets a slice of my chocolate mudcake. Unwrapping the present Ghost 4 gave me, its a bedtime novel. I'm not going to read it, but I will keep it under my pillow because it got the smell of her perfume.

Getting ready to go out for formal dinner with friends at the Song Viet 5th anniversary, its a Vietnamese Youth Group. It was good see my old friends again, Danny, Cuong, Thuy, Thao, Vu, Tram, the highschool gang, and Anh Khoa. So much things to talk about in so little time.

The fashion parade was my highlight of the night, the local models look amazing. Funny what a dress and makeup can make the different, I see a familiar face amongst the models, one of them is going out with my friend, Thao.

...Mum's 51st birthday and also 28th anniversary from the day she met Dad. I got mum a silk scarf, hand picked by Ghost 4 when I was in Melbourne.

My company is sending me to Perth in early September on a little assignment.

...Visiting Melbourne city for the weekend. She my personal financial advisor (Ghost 4?). Shes showing around her amazing city.

Flew to Melbourne on Friday afternoon, straight after work. She was waiting for me at the airport, welcoming me with open arms and the brightest smile. First stop, to Crown Casino for dinner and a walk along the river side.

...Nice to know you Van, yesterday was Van's last day doing work experiencing at our department. Shes a cool person to have around, keeping smile on the boys' face. Best with everything in your career path and your goals at having 5 kids, you can get there in no time hehe.. that ink you drew on my hand, thats really hard to get off.

Nice to know you, might see you around Cabramatta sometime.

...Gathering of families and relatives to celebrate my niece's one month party. So many little kids running around, hard to keep track of them.

Little Kevin is my favourite nephew, hes a trouble maker. At only 3 years old he already started photography, he love taking picture of the ground.

...Looking around for a 250cc street motorcycle to buy. Prefered Kawasaki, Honda or Yamaha brand.

...Activated my Google mail account today, half.man.half.shark@gmail.com, courtesy of Ralph Tan.

Gmail aint what it hype up to be. Your chance at grabbing an unique username is as good as finding one from Yahoo mail. The only feature which I was impressed is the anti-spam-engine. This is how it works, Google collects all the characteristic of a spam mail in a repository. This act as an intellegent-anti-spam-engine filtering out incoming messages before displaying the rest to the Inbox.

I can see a new Open Source project opportunity here, a plugin for Mozilla/Netscape/Thunderbird and others proprietary mail agents with the ability to download spam-definition, it will rejects all messages found to be "spam". Should any developers be interested, please contact me.

...Going to Phuoc Hue temple with Khoi to listen to Buddhist's teaching. This week topic is What is Happiness and Path to Enlightenment. The teaching of Buddhist philosophy is fasinating, especially the moral of life. Buddhist philosophy make me see the beauty in simple things. There were other topics but the literature were too advanced for my understanding.

The temple also held classes for kids from year 7 to year 12 every Sunday, it designed to help them with their school work. Most of the tutors there are university undergraduate volunteers, maybe I should sign up to take up a class, it looked like fun.

...Its been raining the whole day. Robert's birthday was 3 days ago, so we're going out for Charcoal Mine BBQ House all-you-can-eat Korean style BBQ dinner on Church Street Parramatta, I like the idea of an all-you-can-eat BBQ, its so unique, I bet the restaurant owner make heaps of money out of that, oh, and the food was good too. I'm coming back there again.

After dinner we went bowling at Fairfied for some indoor entertainment.

To a guy, his birthday is just another day, we dont make a big deal out of it. That explains why we're not good at remembering others' people birthday..

...Booking a flight to Melbourne for the weekend.

...A nice day to go jogging with my 4 legged friend. In the afternoon meeting up with some friends of Cuong for dinner.

...The end of a chapter in a life. Mum and Dad returned with a heavy heart, with news that my Grandpa had passed away. I no longer have any living grand parents, Grandmamma is waiting on the other side of the world, now their love will be enternity. Grandpa last words was his greatest joy in life were his childrens. He has no regrets.

Before flying back Dad visited mum's hometown, Hue, where they first met 25 years ago.

...Van, Nhi and Duyen, the 3 notorious girls from Melbourne come to attend little Jonathan's babyshower party.

Saturday. Everyone met up at Wilson's place to see Jonathan sleep. Bought some take-away food at Lao-Thai Luammit restaurant and bring it back to the Motel where they are staying for dinner and drinking Vodka. After dinner we head out to GAS nightclub, and dance the night away till 3am in the morning. GAS were quite lastnight, probably because most people are attending the rave at Fox Studios.

Sunday. The whole group spent the night at Motel, all cuddle up in a shared blanket, but none of us could sleep cause one of our roommate have a habit of snoring. 10am, time heading out to Cabramatta for yumcha breakfast, then to Mounties Club for coffee. By 1pm Sunday everyone gathered at Wilson's place ready to eat and make trouble.

Our next group gathering is in August, lets rock Brisbane again!

...Bought a Hi-Low chair for little Jonathan at Sydney's Baby Kingdom, his babyshower party is this weekend.

Raise the chair up for Tanya to feed him and let him make a messy. Slide it down so Jonathan can run around and let him make a mess. It can even tilt backward to lay back, enjoy lunch and let him make a mess.

...At home waiting to pick up sister at 5pm. Checking up on my cigarette boxes collection, my aim was to fill one side of the wall with cigarette boxes. I have a habit of keeping my own cigarette packet, I been doing this for afew years now, you can tell it really adds up. Its one of those habits that can kill you.

Funny how it started out, when I dated S., she gave me the reason to quit. But in the end I couldnt keep her. So I turn to L. for comfort and used her as a rebounce, L., I'm sorry that I hurt you..

So these days I better off alone.

Driving out to Cabramatta looking for a latenight restaurant to have dinner.

...I notice this morning the Suzuki batch on my car is missing, who stole my batch? Thats so uncool, it's like bullies stold food out of my lunch box, if I found out who I'll smash them with a stool.

...News that my Grandpa is getting very ill, Mum and Dad are packing to fly back to Vietnam tomorow morning to check up on his conditions. Grandmamma died about two years ago. I really admire my grandparents, I admire their love for each other for more than 50 years through times of good and bad. I have all together nine aunties and uncles, on my grandparents on mum's side I have one auntie and ten uncles.

Its common for a family in the old days to have lots of childrens, fertility is highly valued in Vietnamese culture.

I hope Grandpa get well soon, and live longer to share more stories with us.

...The winter chill is approaching, its snowing is certain part of Sydney. After coming back from teaching a class this morning I began sneezing continuously.

I think I'm coming down with a cold. So I mix myself a glass of warm water, lemon and honey - its really sooth the sore throat. Beats going to the doctor! I dont like doctor, dentist and circus clowns.

...Friends coming over to watch some XXX movies, but the girls went red-faced so we ended up watching Soul Plane and The Legend of Zu on a Sony VPL-CX1 projector.

...Finish applying the filler on the dent, now is a matter of waiting for it to harden.

While waiting I'm taking my dog out for a leak. Its quite windy and the clouds have gathered for a big storm tonight.

I droped by Cabramatta to pick up some food, when I notice there's going to be a Drum & Hot Chilli festival on next week, its going to be fun! Moon festival is coming soon too, sometime in August.

...Making a donation to Free the Children to help with their projects for 2004-2005. Namely in response for the building of the primary school in Ganzu province China.

I feel the need to give because I came from a proverty background, I know the situations of these kids. When I was 9 I was an orphan, without organisation like Free the Children sponsoring me, I wouldnt be where I am today.

In the near future I will start my own campaign building a shelter accomodation for homeless kids to have an education and finding work. Giving them a second chance in life. Theres a song called Teach your children well by Crosby, it keeping me in touch in reaching this goal.

http://freethechildren.org/youthinaction/projects_china.htm

...Brick fence and car dont mix. My little brother reversed his car into a friend's fence leaving a dent on the rear, this look like a Do It Yourself job.

And boys will be boys.

...A walk along the Royal National Park coast. We saw Skippy, the friendly bush kangaroo, but it ran away when we were trying to approach it.

We got to see the whales, it was awesome. Maybe I'll go see them again.

Everyone seems to have fun day in the sun, wait till tomorow when the pain kicks in. Robert has the complete set of photos on the walk.

On my journey back I almost didnt make it out of the national park, I got only have about $1 worth of petrol left in the tank, the scary/fun moments were looking at the meter and hoping it wont run out.

...Spent most of the morning cleaning up my room and deleting junk data on my computer.

Did some cosmetic fix to my weblog design, and bugfix for my weblog engine, Microblogger.

Organising notes for my class tomorow.

Planning a Thredbo skii trip with Jimmy.

...Today, my journey through life I have comes to an intersection, need to make a choice. Its time to decise to turn to another road or keep on going straight.

Dad had sold our house in Vietnam, because its no longer rentable, the political system over there is getting unstable. Dad asked me what do I want to do with it. In his mind he wanted me to sell my apartment and combine with the money to buy a bigger house. I said I'll give an answer by the weekend.

1. My parents' age is approaching late 50's, I want to use it to buy them a nice place in Adelaide for retirement. I know Dad will love it because now he can be closer to his old Army friends.
2. Use it between mutual funds and bonds for Mum and Dad's retirement plan.
3. Use it to invest in a business and hire people to work in it. I heard about a take-away shop for sale in Cabramatta West area. But that area is mostly working class, they probably not interested in dinning out after a long day at work.
4. Use it to rent a warehouse, start a supply-chain distribution centre, importing digital goods.
5. Use it to extend digital and electronic goods to a Nghia's existing video rental shop. In turn generating revenues for both businesses. I dont need to look after the business because Nghia is trustworthy.
6. Use it to buy a house in inner-state for my little brother. He wanted a place in Tasmania.
7. Use it to buy a house with a friend in Melbourne, shes a first home buyer and cant afford to buy her investment home on her own starting salary.
8. Or Use it to follow Dad's idea. Selling my apartment, buying a house and keep paying mortgage.

...For your information, yes, I still sleep in a sleeping bag at night.

...I start tutoring again from this weekend, one class a week, 9:00am to mid day every sunday.

Vesak Festival at Phuoc Hue temple this week, Thinh called to meet up for lunch with a couple of old friends.

...Whale watching at Cape Solander. An excuse to run away from the Pop culture circus. I hate whats on commercial TV these days, so much Pop culture rubbish. People who are wannabes their idol, people who kept in captivities, and people over-wear trendy clothes and makeups, they look like a bunch of clowns if you ask me.

They say 'In 100 years is will all be over'. How true - in the end we are left with nothing, while there are so many other things out there to think and experience and do. Australia is really an amazing place, I drove down to Cape Solander to escape from it all. But there was no whales today, so spent the afternoon listening to the waves and breathing ocean air.

...Family dinner, had one of those father-and-son talk. The usual advice to be good to the people around you and care about the enviroment you live in. Dad is 57 this year, he said when you're old life passing you by very fast. He still enjoy working in the farms with his friends, its his hobby. He got a hectare of land on his friend's farm where he grows his garden and vegies. Mum is not feeling well, shes had went for medical check up, still waiting for the diagnosis from the doctor.

Dad asked me how I am going with the mortgage, he'll help me with a couple of thousands to ease the interests payment. Said its a present from him, use it wisely and hope to see me opening my own business soon.

He reminds me to water the bamboos. Old people always say things with hidden meanings, the bamboos he gave me when I bought this apartment, it was a symbolic of growing up. Its a reminder of my culture and the roots of my ancestries.

As I was leaving mum pinch me and asked, chung nao lay vo (when are you going to get marry). I said I dont know and ran off...

...The Vesak festival, or Buddha Day, celebrates three major events in the life of the Buddha: his birth, enlightenment and passing away on the full moon of the 6th lunar month (May). It is the most important festival in the Buddhist lunar calendar.

Buddhist festivals are a time for joy. They give Buddhists an opportunity to meet together. Families bring food, candles and flowers to the monks in the monasteries. In return, the monks chant the scriptures, lead a period of meditation and give teachings on the themes of the festival.

At night the temple transform with candle lights and Tieng Hat Que Huong (traditional songs and performances).

...One of the best weekend I have this year. Art on The Rocks, a celebration of public drawing, painting and jazz music. Maybe I havent told anyone this but artie and tree huggie girls are my type, I love their intellectual ideas and freedom to expression.

I love art and I love Australia.

...Its Friday night after work, I'm so tired I keep driving straight following the traffics, next thing I know I was at the wrong place. Had to call and cancelled dinner plan with friends because I'm too tired to make it.

I still enjoy work, but starting to feel the stress, maybe its Friday and bills are due.

Ghost 1 wants me to get her a coat for Winter season. I like to be needed, but I have the fear of commitments.

So I keep going straight, tailgating the car in front of me.

...Its an Art. Michelangelo's "David" is one of the rare masterpiece of the Renaissance period. The 13 1/2-foot-tall statue depicted a heroism of man in the story of David and Goliath, one of my favourite Ancient Greek mythology. It also marked a milestone in the art movement at the time, Humanism, the distorted figure and the over-size of David's head.

I'm a big fan of narrative art, artwork that tells a story, my favourite are Guernica by Pablo Picasso, The Raft Of The Medusa by Theodore Gericault and the less well known Christina's World by Andrew Wyeth.

Below are photos of Lan, Van and Joanne on our trip.

...Its Sunday once again, visiting my Ghost 1. Sunday is also laundry day.

...Exploring the Burragorang and Rileys Mountain in a day. Khoi's coming to collect native plants for his scientific research, and my purpose is to take photos of the great outdoor. We stopped for lunch at Burragorang lookout, a nice place to laid back and read a book. Then we follow the Rileys track for a walk through the bush.

There are many houses on sale at Nattai, they make good holiday resorts.

Our next bush exploration will be on Euroka track in the Blue Mountains.

...Spending a hour going through my files doing adjustment to my financial statement. After the initial calculation my total assets is $218,561.51 and the net asset stands at $21,299.42. On the liability column are the mortgage loan and the education loan, life is an expense.

...I had fun playing Cashflow 101 with a group of friends today. A session to exercise capitalist's greed. I met the group through a mutual friend, they think like capitalist and talk like capitalist - may be I can learn something out of this. Although it was just a coincident, because I happened to read the book Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki afew years back; some would say this is their bible to their financial freedom.

Two hours into the game I got out of the rat race. I played the role of a Truck Driver earn little over $700 a week, all through the game I had two kids (Scott Junior and Cecil). I paid the financial advisor over $100,000 throughout the game for financial advices, they were good advice indeed. In the end, I got out of the rat race with a cashflow of over $500,000 a year from various properties and business investments. However I didnt get my dream of having a park named after me, what ashame.

The game is really fun to play, its a brain teaser. The investment portfolio opportunities in the game are as unreal as it gets, you put $20,000 down payment and you get a property valued at $80,000.. I guess thats why they call it a game.

I'm looking forward to playing Cashflow 202.

...An annual event held at Fairfield showground. Showcasing koi, bird, cat, mouse, guinea pig and other household pets. My favourite are the golden Hikari Utsuri, they are awesome water creatures.

...Hanging out with Khoi at his Saturday private tutoring class. It happens to be next to Canley Vale Highschool and the railway track. I'm killing time by wandering on the track like the old school days. Back then we gang up after school each Tuesday and throw rocks at train passing by (yes that were us).

Had pizza for dinner, with Ghost 1 and her roomate.

...So winter has began, its just pass 5 PM and the sky already getting dark - the view from my office window. Its a full moon tonight.

My place has only one parking space, poor brother has to park his car in the element, we rotate parking. I'm saving up for the moment, when the right time comes I'll sell this apartment; buy an engagement ring, pay the wedding and split whats left over between my little brother for him to start his independent life.

Being the eldest in the family carries responsibilities, always be a role model and looking after your siblings.

...Taking my 4 legged friend out for a walk in the park, it has been awhile.

Mother's Day is tomorow didnt know what to get for her, so I checked out Wishlist.com.au for ideas. I'm gonna give her a Krosno Tulip Vase, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MUM - but a vase isnt a vase without flowers, so in the mist of darkness I stole a rose branch off some unexpecting person on my street.

Going out with Ghost 1 for her school friends for a get together reunion - eating steam-boat at Thuan's house, then head out to Chipping Norton lighting camp fire and catch on old times.

...I has just been given a $10,000 a year pay rise, taking my salary to $45,000 per annum mark.

I've been with the company just over 6 months, and it was time to review my package. The amount proposed to me was abit unexpected, the CEO said hes giving me this pay rise before my time to give my some incentive. He added that usually this level of salary reserved for employee who worked with the company over 12 months only.

Nonetheless, its a win-win situation, one side it makes the employee happy, the other preventing the employee from asking for another rise in the next 2 years.

Now I'm getting closer to my dream yatch.

...Van (nickname Sweetest-Thing) drove down from Melbourne with her 7 friends. So hey why not throw a party for Sweetest-Thing and call some Sydney friends around. It was a fun night, surprisingly no hang over today.

...Two months on and the two aquarium friends have grown, Friendly and Bite Me.

Before

...Havent seen family for awhile. Paid a supprise visit and found Mum, Dad, little sister and uncle dressing up for a wedding party.

...Michael is a single-engine pilot. He took us along to one of his weekend routine flight. Its the first time I being on a single-single plane, its was so cool. We flew along coastal Sydney and finishing off the day at sunset.

Such a romantic place.

...Its a great 23 degrees outside. Visiting my local temple, sitting on the side walk and continuing reading my book.

...Going to Chipping Norton picnic point for a walk in the park.

Then heading out to Casual market to shop for antiques. There is a saying about this market, that one man's trash is another man's treasure. - sometimes you can find really cool stuffs here. I got a monk mini-status for $2 and a while ago I found this status of THE THINKER for $5!

Next stop, taking Ghost 1 to do her weekly shopping.

...Finally got my Kodak LS443 digital camera yesterday. Playing with it until 2am this morning.

Oral Sex and 69 with Ghost 1 is fantastic - what a mess we make. She still shy about the idea of posing nude.

...Wandering into the Japanese Gardens and continue reading my book. Its a sweet romantic place.

...As a person I have a passion for landscape, none is more wonderful than the city of Sydney. Driving to the city, wandering the street of Sydney. Visiting the major lanmarks - Sydney Chinatown, Chinese gardens, Darling Harbour, Habour Bridge, Opera House, Goverment House and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

I found a comfortable place under the tree of the Royal Botanic Gardens, reading a book and enjoy the sunset.

...Taking aunty out to visit Cronulla beach. Its our first family picnic since she arrived here.

This is a good chance for me to play around with 35mm film camera, a Nikon F65. I'm still deciding wether to get a digital camera or a 35mm one, I think I like digital better, its easier to share. But digital cameras are lack in quality and functionality.

...Party at Dung's. Sitting around a table with a dozen people, we drink, smoked weed and eat steam-boat with cannabis leaf. It was an intoxicating night. They played classical opera, I sat and listen, reminding me so much of Vietnam.

The first time I hear an Indonesian woman sings Vietnam, her husband played the guitar, they both really good.

...This is about my e-friend Oanh, also known as Orgasmic Chic, a blogger like myself. She posted up a seductive picture of herself in bed, and this is the reaction I get - *waves to Orgasmic Chic* are you reading this?

We both have a mole on our nose, a coincident or a sign?

...The rain spoilt another good weekend. We were planning to have a beach pinic just the two of us, then the rain came and we're bounded indoor. Look like the bikini photo shoot have to be postponed till another week.

Hungry. Driving to Krispy Kreme to buy donuts for lunch. Thinking of Ghost 1, so I bought a second box for her and her roomate.

...Taking my 4 legged friend out for a walk. Laying back facing the clouds flying by, so peaceful.

Something is licking my feet, its just my 4 legged friend. He always make me laugh.

...Finn's 2nd birthday. He's turning three this year, another trouble maker to the world.

...These are the inspirational people I spent most of my days with, we all shared a common vision for the company. The problem is I'm seeing them more than my own family so I had to get along with them whether I like it or not.

...Ghost 1 called me out for lunch, she gave me an Emporio Armani silk tie made in Italy. Its lovely.

Visiting mum after work.

...Driving Ghost 1 home from work today. She said you must think I'm crazy. She continue asking me questions about life, she explains to me how there's a lonely man twice her age interested in her.

I feel uncomforable about the conversation, but after 10 minutes into the conversation things begins to make some sense. She can confide in me because I've always been there for her. So I said to her, to follow where happiness takes you. Being like everyone probably wont make you happy. She smile and we both understand each others.

She reminds me of a character in the film Three Seasons (1999), about a girl who were trapped by circumstance, society and female idealism. Struggling against a fate that is too strong for her.

Whatever happens I will continue to be there for her.

...A perfect day for bushwalking with friends. At one point we got loss in the middle of nowhere, its was fun, I like the unexpected things in life.

...Went to Sydney University today to submit my letter of deferral. I am recommencing studies in semester 1, 2005. I'm gonna miss my Uni fill with memories.

Caught the train to Uni, it used to be crowed, now the seats are all but empty. Sitting under the shade of a tree having lunch, like the old days and the Carslaw's roof-top where I hang out during summer.

Study friends, now went their own separate ways, finding our own happiness. We all have something in common though, we hate exams. Such bitter sweet memories..

...It's amazing to see how us human had conquer the universe in the last few decades. Already we have telescope looking at planets 13 billion kilometers away from Earth. Space missions and satelite launch into space almost daily, there are so many interesting things going on around the world, ashame I dont have time to appreciate them all.

I believe space-shuttle-bus will be available in my children's generation. So they can have their little school excursion trip to the moon.

And I believe life is out there..

...My favourite aunt, Co Ut. Shes the youngest out of 9 in the family. This is the first time I see her again after 15 years. She bought for me some Vietnam t-shirts, its so cool!

...This morning I decided to go out for a walk at the Sydney Olympic Park. Wanting to be alone for awhile. Away from my daily world. Where is so much uncertainty and fear. My hope for future can sometimes seem obscure and dark. Just want to be alone for awhile.

Out of sight is really out of mind. Havent got time to socialise lately, mainly tided up with work.

Seeing the girl name Maria again tonight, she still giving me the cold shoulder. I probably shouldn't tell her that I dreamed of you last night.

And Ghost 1.. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do or how I'm suppose to feel.

...26th annual Gay and Lesbian parade. Despite the rain many people manage to turn up. I am one of those who didnt turn up, I didnt want to get a wet t-shirt.

The rain really spoilt the fun, I had plan to go to Sydney Olympic Park on Sunday to join other Sydnerysiders for Clean Up Australia Day - was cancelled because the ground was too wet.

...Going through my cashflow I was alarmed to find I'm running in the rat race. Much of my payslip goes to pay for the mortgage and living expeneses. I earn enough to pay for the things I need but struggle for the luxuries. That explains my depression in the last few days.

Buying this townhouse was a big financial mistake, especially in this current market. But I'm glad that I make this mistake in the early stages of life, at least I took a step in the right direction. You live you learn. They say it takes four small green houses to build a big red house.

Plan A. When I turn 25 this August, find a girl settling down, partying less, focus on career and personal financing. Gathering resources to attempt another start-up business.. and get marry by 30. Buying a new house, leaving the current townhouse as family's commonwealth.

Plan B. Take out the equity of the current townhouse. Re-settling to another location, maybe another state. Buy a big house and looking for opportunities to start a business.

...Fredrika sent photos of her graduation ceremony and group photo of friends from uni. Finishing her Master of Multimedia and Design degree, she look so happy there. I love her smiles. I miss the old days when we studies in the same lectures.

...Sunday. Birthday party of Dung and Chu Nghia. As expected of me I drank till I'm dead. Chu Nghia have a daughter, Kim Phuong. Shes cute and very talented in classical Vietnamese folk opera.

Tradition say that to be a son in law you must first earn her father's respect. In this case you must drink better than her father. This is my 5th attempt trying to earn his respect, but I always end up on the floor.

Monday. Boy, I hate hang over. On the move again, this time heading north to Botany Bay. Enjoying lunch by myself at Botany beach.

...On the road. Driving around all morning to a client's warehouse holding tenth of hundredth of millions in electrical equipment. It's a hugee warehouse.

It was a hot day today in Sydney, reaching 35°

...This time I'm travelling light with the diary and a company's phone. I've develope a habit of sleeping in the air, it feels very peaceful up there. Another interesting I found is going to the toilet on a plane travelling at 800 km/h is such a thrill, everyone must try it.

By the time I arrived in Adelaide a driver is waiting to pick me up, from then on its all work work meeting meeting, no time to enjoy the scenery. Its been a long and hot day, but nonetheless more exciting than a day at the office.

...Valentine's Day. Busy all day at work. Called Ghost #1 in the morning said I'll call her after work. Finish fixing problems at work around 6pm, going over to Fredrika house to help her with some stuffs. Long day, tired.

Sunday. One day after Valentine's, Ghost #1 mad at me cause I didnt call back yesterday. Fine, be that way.

Survivor at home. Kids, try this at home. Spent my Sunday afternoon with my 4 legged friend drilling some onions.

...Me and Mum with alittle Mother-and-Son talk in Dad's garden.

...Saturday. Taking my 4 legged friend out for a leak on a nice Saturday morning.
I gave in to authority, I need the car to travel to work. Went to the mechanice to service my car, charged me $550 dollars for four 4x4 GOOD YEAR tyres.
Straight to Dung's house getting pissed till 4am in the morning.

Sunday. Ghost #1 is back. I'll be seeing her every Sunday.
Shopping for sleepwear.
Eating birthday cakes for lunch.
Oral sex is fantastic.
Shaoling Soccer (2001) DVD, 4 stars from me.
The porno DVD was boring.
Shes still refuse to pose for me, but i notice shes wearing size C cup now. You can really feel the different.

...I got a letter from the government.
I opened and read it.
It said they were suckers.
The suckers had authority.
14 days to pay my due.
Hunting me like a fugitive on the run.
Fuck tha authority!

...Ghost #1 call again today, said to pick her up from work. I was excited; maybe another one of those oral-sex-is-fantastic night. While in the car she's giving me hints:

She said. You know what day tomorow is?

Then I goes. But Valentine's Day is not until another 10 days..

She look over and said It's my birthday tomorow. Damn I was so forget about it. Then she continue, you have to take me to lunch tomorow now. I nods..

I'm going to take her to shopping after lunch, I want to get her the sleepwear set, the kind she like.

And then Valentine's Day comes I have to get her the other set... I'm a sucker when it comes to girls.

...I have fans telling me my 4 legged friend is more charming than me.. so this one is for all the ladies out there.

My little sister is camera shy, thats why shes my favourite target.

...Lazy Sunday, went over to mum's house to scab some home cook meal. Just my luck, no more rice. So I cook the only thing I can, noodle.

Start out with chopped onion rings. Fried it, OPSEE.. it caught on fire, quick cover it with a lid. That was close. Two eggs, scrabble it, add some fish sause. Put it out onto some tissue paper to dain the oil.

Next up, reuse the same pot and boil water, add noodle, ready to eat? Pour all the water out, add the ingredients. Pick some vegies and herbs from the garden.

Put all of it on the plastic plate. Plastic plate are handy cause you dont have to wash it afterwards. Not sure if it poisoned, feed some to me 4 legged friend. Seems to be OK, so hungry lets eat.

Both of us are full. Time to take my dog out for a walk.

Little sister wanna catch a lift to the local shop.

...It's a sleazy world baby. Finally got back in contact with Ghost #1 after 2 months of absent. Some girls living life carefree more than others. I think shes a lesbian..

...Disclaimer: Read it at your own risk.

Lesson 1: What is Love? Love is pleasure baby!

Lesson 2: Flavoured condom. Always use flavoured condom, in an event when you get caught by her parent use you can use it as an excuse for chewing gum.

Lesson 3: Foreplay. A definate yes, hugs and kisses is the way to start. Give a little love, let you hand do the talking, make her squeal with animal sound.

Lesson 4: She like to be on top. I'm cool with it.

Lesson 5: Two most important dates are Valentine and her birthday.

...If I get pulled over on the road I could get a $1000 fine and a suspension of my licence, for driving my car with an expired registration, unregistered under my name and overdue parking ticket.

I gave the RTA a call this morning they said I didnt apply for a change of ownership when I bought the car, must have slipped my mind. What a great start to the new year huh..

I should keep a copy of the certificate in the car so I can say "I'm on my way to the RTA to get it register."

...I love Australia for the diversity, the land, the people, their values and beliefs. The symbol of Australia for me in the Sydney Olympics, where we united as one.. and yeah we throw the best party.

Our national anthem said it all about whats great about our continent:

Australians all let us rejoice
For we are young and free;
We've golden soil and wealth for toil;
Our home is girt by sea;
Our land abounds in nature's gifts
Of beauty rich and rare;
In history's page, let every stage
Advance Australia fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing
Advance Australia fair.

Beneath our radiant Southern Cross
We'll toil with hearts and hands;
To make this Commonwealth of ours
Renowned of all the lands;
For those who've come across the seas
We've boundless plains to share;
With courage let us all combine
To Advance Australia fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing
Advance Australia fair.

...The new year party at Dung ended at 7:30am, by then I dont have drop of energy left, driving home half asleep.

Waking up at mid day. Going through blogs and tumble on Exploding Dog, I was inspired by the artworks. So I decided to do some sketches drawing once again.

Drawing done on a Pentium III running Red Hat Linux OS on a Sunday afternoon. Manipulation using vector graphic editor SODIPODI, and GIMP to crop the image smaller.

...It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, killing time by playing Shadow-Cock at an old friend's place. Then head out to Westfield Liverpool shopping to get some alcohol - a bottle of SMIRNOFF VODKA and a KAHLUA LIQUEUR. I'm gonna mix for them BLACK RUSSIAN, ABSOLUT GREEN WEDDING, NIKITA and many more. Recipes are at www.drinkalizer.com.

After this entry I'm gonna take a shower then head over to Dung's house for New Year party. Its gonna be a great night.

...Gong Xi Fa Cai! The year of the Wood Monkey is about settle all your debts. In Vietnam we call this day Tet. I didnt recieve any red packets of good luck money this year, its a sign I'm getting older. In our family we worship our ancestors, we made offerings of fruits and cakes. We throw a party inviting relative, friends and neighbours together. After dinner I went to Phuoc Hue Temple to pray for forgiveness for the sins I committed during the year. Secondly, because I want see old friends and beautiful young Vietnamese girls in long dress. I love the smell of firecrackers and the sound of dragon dance. I was in a dragon dance group when I was younger, but quit when I got to senior highschool. Chuc mung nam moi (Vietnamese) Gong xi fa cai! (Chinese, Cantonese) Xin nian yu kuai (Chinese, Mandarin) Godt nytar (Danish) Gelukkig nieuwjaar (Dutch) Bonne année (French) Gutes Neues Jahr (German) Buon Capo d'Anno (Italian) Feliz ano novo (Portuguese) La Multi Ani (Romania) S Novym Godom (Russian) Feliz Ano Nuevo (Spanish)

...I found the cure for flu! VODKA. Partying at Dung's place we sat around in circle eating steam-boat and drinking. I drank nothing but straight Vodka, it burns the throat, its a brain eraser, I passed out. This morning I woke the flu was gone! I think I drank too much I killed the virus.

Alex told me I should put the Vodka in the fridge at -20 degrees, apparently it doesnt freeze. I gotta try that on my next party trick.

Shared my bed with Ghost #5 lastnight. She wasnt that good. Turns me off with too many strings attach talk. Sorry, I want to touch you but I'm scare of commitment.

My own mini aquarium in the bachelor patch, for some reason I find it really relaxing watching the fishes swim after a long day at work.

Private photos required authentication.

...Saturday night. Getting drunk with friends at Cabra-vale. One of a friend manage to sneek in a bottle of Jim Finnest bourbon, it was one hell of a good night. I tell you one thing about being drunk, its unpleasant, because I always tell the truth when I'm drunk. At 3am we went to VIET HOA HOTBREAD to get some porkroll. Sounds creepy but bread taste fantastic at 3am.

Sunday. Got home at 4:30am in the morning. Not fully recovered from the night before I recieved a call from Wilson - "come over have a drink Scott". I plans to drink just a little because I have to work on Monday. But everyone was there we had a jamming session with the accoustic guitar. We sat around in circle taking turns to sing.

Before I knew it I finished off 5 cans of VB beer and dont remember how many shots of Jim I had. Coming to work Monday, still had the hang over from Saturday.

Others things happening in the weekend:

Congrats Alex Grayz on his new baby girl. Mother and daughter are doing well.

Little sister, Thuy Anh bought another puppy, she havent named it yet. He like to bite my thumb.

...Just got home from work on a hot summer day. I step into the shower and turn on just the cold water tap, enough to let it flow trip-by-trip. I love moments like this. Like showering in a cheap hotel where the water is slow and the hot water is not really hot.

Now, time for some HITMAN 2 on my PlayStation2.

...Like every year I turn up to watch the fireworks live. But this year I didnt get close to the action, I was at Waston Bay enjoying New Year Eve with friends. After the fireworks we went to Superbowl restaurant for some late night dinner (or early morning breakfast).

The start of 2004 was rather disappoiting for me, I didnt get any kisses. Nonetheless I am keeping my head up high, waiting for NYE of 2005.

Last year I asked Santa to send me a girlfriend for Christmas, I think it going to arrive very soon. Love comes when I least expected. There is someone one in my circle of friend, I got the hot for her.