Christmas 2008

Relaxing with Mini B in Brissie...

I'm a housewife

Well alot has happened in the last few weeks. I've had stress leave from my job at MIGA due to the false accusations made against me, and I am now at home working on starting my online business. We were meant to launch before christmas but things have been a bit crazy as you can imagine. I think everyone is in the same boat this time of year.

Last week I was lucky enough to go to Brisbane to spend time with my brother, sis in law and my gorgeous niece Beth. I had the best time it was awesome! Beth is so funny now and she is such a Monkey See Monkey Do, you have to be so careful what you say around her now because she is like a sponge. It was great to spend some time with Phan and Clara too. Brissie weather is so hot but relaxing at the same time, all I wanted to do was sleep which I did alot of much to their amusement. We are going again in January and I'll have to bring some bathers with me so I can see Beth swim. It was great for me to be out of Adelaide it really helped me relax alot and I've come back to Adelaide refreshed.

This week has been so busy with doctors appointments because they are trying to determine why I bruise so much. I got my test results back and my iron levels have dropped again. But they took more blood to test for clotting and to double check the iron because the doctor thinks that may be to do with my stress levels at the time of taking blood. I have an awesome new GP who is only a registrar at the moment but she is better than any GP I've ever had she is fantastic and very thorough. So I've had two blood tests within a week, but hopefull they will figure out what is up with my bruising.

My website still has alot of background work to be done but I'm hoping it will be completed by the end of January ready for business. Watch this space www.orientalblossom.com.au . It will be selling handbags and jewellery but we will look at expanding to funky homewares that are hard to find in the shops.

I'm exciteed about christmas this year not long to go!! But it will be hard not having Beth, Phan and Clara around so I'm counting down to the 10th of January, bring it on!!!

When Insomnia Hits...

You find yourself blogging at 1am! It has been a very long time since I have written on here, and since I find myself wide awake at 1am on a Friday morning I thought I would do an update.

Alot has been happening around here. Work is starting to get quite busy and there have been dramas left and right, let's just say that some of the people I work with are becoming quite unbearable. Besides that the workload makes the day go faster so that's always a bonus.

Christmas is not far away and I will start my christmas shopping with my mum this weekend. I'm hoping to get to Jetty Rd on Sunday as well because there are some great boutiques there, and I have some ideas for gifts. I'm hoping to get most of it out of the way fairly soon so I can avoid the crowds, shopping malls during Christmas to me are awful I hate it! Everyone is so grumpy and the staff are tired and overworked, makes you forget the true meaning of christmas. We haven't put up our christmas tree yet, so maybe Ty and I will do that Sunday night together, the first christmas in our new house, it will be awesome!

Last Monday I had a medical drama and felt pain like I've never felt before. I came home from work and had dinner as per normal, but around 6:30pm I started getting really bad stomach aches, they started getting progressively worse to the point where Ty had to take me to hospital. Just as Ty pulled up to the RAH I threw up all over myself (the fourth vomit of the night) so I walk into emergency doubled over in pain and vomit all over my clothes. The triage nurse was extremely rude and unsympathetic and I honestly think she is in the wrong profession. She told us we would have to wait so I went outside to get some fresh air, while out there the pain was so bad I collapsed, a paramedic saw me and got me a wheelchair but she wasn't very nice either. I asked her for some water because I was feeling so weak and she says to me "water isn't going to help you" WTF?? The triage nurse also decided to tell me I was silly for going outside I felt like slapping her. Looking back on it I think they must have thought I had overdosed on drugs and was just another druggie. Thank God for Phan, because he managed to find a colleague working that night and she got me in sooner, and I was able to have a morphine injection to ease the pain while I waited for the doctor on duty.

Being so sick made me realise how vulnerable the human body is and that we should really take care of it. The thing that made me saddest though was the lack of human compassion that night. While I was doubled over in pain in the hospital car park on the cement, several groups of people walked past me and not one person stopped to ask if I was okay. I was by myself (because Ty was waiting inside so we wouldn't miss our spot) and screaming in pain. I could understand that some people might have been scared and didn't want to stop. But a couple of men walked past and just looked at me and kept walking, I hardly think I would have been a threat to their safety. I can honestly say that if I saw someone in that much pain I would have at least got a nurse or doctor to come out and check on that person. It made me sad that as human beings we could treat each other so heartlessly. On that note I hope this christmas I stop to think about others more and if given the opportunity to help someone out I don't keep walking. I think we could all do more. I hope this christmas in the midst of all the chaos I remember to stop and reflect on how lucky I am and think of those less fortunate.

In the spirit of Christmas hold your loved ones a little closer, and realise that a gift doesn't have to come with wrapping paper and ribbon, sometimes all we need is someone to reach out and make us feel valued.

Meet the Fockers...

Last weekend was extremely busy. On Saturday night Matt, Aisha and Anthony came to our place for pizza and a movie. As usual we spent the night paying Anthony out. He has just bought a pink shirt that is in a tartan pattern and it is soooo ugly. Matt told him only gay guys wear pink, it was so funny, poor guy. After pizza from Australia's Pizza House (which I highly recommend their pizzas are yummo), we watched Vantage Point. The movie is about the assassination of the US President told from 8 points of view, very clever and enjoyable to watch.

On Sunday night Ty's family, including his auntie Barbara and uncle Dennis met my family. It was a big moment, because it was the first time our parents had met. It went really well. We had a bbq and Ty's dad and mine hit it off, they talked shop alot both being high school teachers and all. After dinner we played Singstar, but only John (Ty's dad), Leayshia, Jody (Ty's cousin), and I were game enough to sing. It was alot of fun John is so funny he'll try anything. My parents thought Ty's family were lovely, so the evening couldn't have gone any better.

This weekend has been a quiet one which is fine for me, because it will be the last quiet one for a while until Christmas!

December 2005...

I was doing some spring cleaning the other day and found a diary journal that I had written in while I was going through the pain of my divorce. It is a very personal entry but I would like to share it with you:-

It is so hard to think of anything to be thankful for right now. Three weeks ago I discovered the ultimate betrayal, my husband was having an affair. Since that day my world has collapsed around me and the devastating effect it has had on me is indescribable.

I cannot look at him without my heart breaking and I find it difficult to breathe. How do I walk away from my best friend, my soul mate, my life? What do I do to bring back the broken trust, and bring back the happy times. My faith in love has been destroyed. I honestly no longer believe in it.

Love is something that when it is good it completes you, but when it is betrayed there is no pain deeper. I loved my husband with all my heart and I doubt I will ever love anyone else like that again, but my trust has been destroyed. They say that love is not enough. I will never stop loving Adam but to stay in a marraige that been tainted with betrayal is too big an ask I feel.

So on this Christmas Eve 2005 what am I thankful for? Even at this lowest point in my life I have much to give thanks for. Most of all a loving and supportive family, and loyal faithful friends. These people are my foundation, without them I don't know what I would do.

Would I still be here? I doubt that very much. I am thankful for my job a place to forget my worries. I am thankful for cinamon donuts they taste so good when things are bleak. I am thankful for my pillow, I sleep restlessly these days but at least I have somewhere to lay my head. I am even thankful for life itself and its many challenges.

They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I don't know if I am strong, but I do know that I will not let this affair break me. I will wake up each morning, and continue on lifes journey, and oneday I will look forward to the morning. Because right now I am sad when I open my eyes only because god didn't let me die in my sleep the night before.

While typing this diary entry my heart breaks for that girl so long ago, she went through so much pain and heartache, and right now it stills brings tear to my eyes. But I look at myself now and I am so happy. Ty is an amazing person and I have found the courage to love again, and I love Ty immensely we were meant to be. I feel that I had to meet Adam first to know what I wanted in a partner. Christmas is around the corner again and I feel so different to three years ago. I am stronger, healthier, happier and at peace with myself.

The silly season is already here...

Well it's been extremely busy in little old quiet Adelaide, but in a good way. Last weekend Ty and I went to see Guy Sebastian play with the Legacy Foundation and the money goes to charity. He played some Ido favourites such as "Angels brought me here", and he did a Memphis Melody which was awesome. I especially like "Sitting on the dock of the Bay". They also had these three girls who had the most amazing voices, and the army band were fantastic, a most enjoyable concert.

On Sunday I went to Ikea with mum, I had given her an idea for a room divider. I bought a little two draw cupboard for the spare bedroom to use to store some of my make up and jewellery. However it was damaged, so I went back today to do an exchange and that one is damaged too! I am so annoyed because Ikea is not exactly close to home. I'm going to have to ring them to get some kind of compensation because I am very pissed off, especially since I asked the guy to check that it wasn't damaged and he said "no the box is just ripped" WTF??!!

Dad gets back from Vietnam on Wednesday and I think my mum is hanging out cos she misses him alot. He told mum he has bought heaps of stuff for Be Mai, so I said to mum what about his daughter :P. It will be good to see him because I have missed having the old man around to give a hard time. This Sunday Ty's family and mine are meeting for the first time, which should be interesting :).

On Saturday night Matt and Aisha are having a bbq we haven't seen them for nearly a month so it will be good to catch up. We might play some rock band :P , I actually like that game especially the drums it's alot harder than it looks!

I have started my Christmas shopping, I have bought Beth's, Clara's and I have some ideas for Co Thuy and Chu Minh. For me Phan will be the hardest to buy for, because everything he wants is soooo expensive, but I have got an idea which I think he might like. I am looking forward to Christmas this year because it is the first one in our new house for me and Ty so I will be putting up our white christmas tree, it will be awesome!!!

It's a sad moment....

Well I found out yesterday that JT has proposed to Jessica Beal damn! I feel like such a teenager being a fan of his but I love him. Ty won tickets to his concert when he was here in Adelaide and it was one of the best concerts I've ever been to. I know I will never get to meet him or marry him but it's nice to dream. Ty if you are reading this I love you baby hee hee.

On a more realistic note I have had a "wry" neck (that's the medical term) for the last 3 days, and having never given birth this is the most excruciating pain I've ever been in. This morning I woke up at 4am in tears because I couldn't roll over or move. Nights are the worse I can't sleep and getting out of bed is nearly impossible I feel like an invalid. I can still work but I've been walking around as Ty would say like Herman Munster. I've been told that it will eventually go away so there is a light at the end of the tunnel, although it seems to be getting worse each day. I can't believe how much a sore neck can affect everything you try to do. It is even hard to put a top on, and blowing drying takes twice as long because I can't hold my head on an angle!

Besides feeling like a freak, life is going along nicely. I've got a charity ball to go to in November for work which I'm really looking forward to. I managed to find a dress in Country Road which was simple but elegant and I'll be able to wear it to my cousins wedding as well. I've also managed to get on the treadmill twice this week and have been eating tuna salads plus a hearty breakfast everyday. Fingers crossed I can keep it up and have a hot body for summer, one can dream :P !

Why do I blog?

My sister Clara wrote this on her blog, posing the question "Why do you blog?". I would never have thought of myself as someone who would be interested let alone enjoy having a blog. It started off as a way to keep her up to date with the happenings back in Adelaide. However as time has gone by I found myself enjoying the experience.

I blog for many reasons. It is an online diary. I would have thought it would be quite confronting sharing my thoughts with the world but it is actually liberating. It takes alot to lay yourself bare and say this is me. My blog hasn't always been personal, alot some would say is quite boring. But for me it is a way to express myself. One of my favourite blogs was the day I shared the pain of my divorce. I cried as I wrote that blog, but I have received so many kind messages from people who have read it. I'd like to think that somewhere out there a stranger in another country is reading my blog, and gaining something from reading it too.

My blog doesn't inspire people and it won't change the world. But it's a piece of me, and oneday I'll have the courage to reveal even more. I hope you've enjoyed the journey so far, and thanks for sticking around.

Happy Father's Day!

Yesterday my whole family came over to our place for an early fathers day celebration. We just had a casual bbq and it gave mum a chance to have a break from cooking. Phi loved the food and kept commenting on how nice it was, he cracks me up because it was just bbq nothing exciting. He is looking forward to going to Bribane to see Beth and so am I. I've never travelled with just Phi so that should be interesting! Clara and Phan rang so dad could see Beth she mastered the word papa which is pretty cute. She was very talkative last night and wanted to dance, very funny!

After dinner Matt and Aisha came over so the boys could play rock band, Ty gave the band the name "Matt and the Asian Persuasion" which I think is hilarious. Mel and I belted out a few tunes on Singstar as well which is such a fun game! Aisha was so not interested so she read bridal magazines to get some more ideas. We plan to go bridesmaid shopping AGAIN next weekend, hopefully we will find something because we are running out of options.

Today is Father's Day so I want to wish my dad (who doesn't read this blog) a great father's day. You've always been very supportive of me and all my decisions in my life, I love you lots and feel blessed that you are my dad! Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there, and I hope you have a great day too Phan, hope Beth is extra cute for you today!

Happy 30th Birthday Clara...

Ty and I have been back in Adelaide for a few weeks now, but I still miss Beth like crazy. Not long til we see her and the family is counting down the days. I've very slowly been getting back into the swing of things. My first week back at work was a bit stressful because I really didn't know how to adapt to my new role at MIGA and starting doubting my abilities. But I've had a breakthrough this week and things have suddenly clicked. I've felt motivated and productive at work which is always a great feeling at the end of the day.

We had Matt and Aisha's engagement dinner a couple of weeks ago at a chinese restaurant. The food there was quite good and I definitely would go back again, plus the service was fantastic. I got to meet Aisha's other bridesmaid Esther who is just as skinny if not skinnier than Aisha, so now I really feel the pressure to lose weight! It's been extremely hard to find bridesmaid dresses. For my own wedding I had the dresses made so I never realised how limited the choices in Adelaide are. The dresses all look the same and they aren't very inspiring or creative. There is definitely a gap in the market I think in Adelaide.

We have our work Charity Gala Ball to celebrate 110 years of MIGA, and the proceeds are going to Beyond Blue which is my favourite charity for obvious reasons. I am busily looking for a cocktail dress and co thuy has kindly offered to make it for me free of charge so I'll have to do some research. Some of the girls at work have already found their dress even though the ball isn't til November.

Last Sunday Thomas Chi and Mitch dropped by to give us our prints of photographs Mitch had taken, they look amazing. We are going to put them up in the entry above the hallway table which I think will look perfect. Thomas was very cute and cheeky as usual, and loved playing with Ty's drums!

This weekend is fathers day and I'm having one of my "famous" bbq's at my place so my mum has the weekend off from cooking for the family. Matt and Aisha are going to come over afterwards so we can play rockband which is awesome! I played it last week and belted out some songs, and have discovered that I am extremely uncoordinated on the drums, it looks alot harder than I thought.

Today is Clara's 30th Birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY CLARA! I want to thank Phan for bringing you into our life. You are such an amazing person, and your greatest gift is your humility. You have so many special talents that it makes me jealous. Thank you for all your love and support over the years. You've been more than a sister in law, and I'm proud to call you my sister. Everyday you give us our own present in the form of Beth. You are such a great mum, so whenever you doubt your abilities or get frustrated, remember that we have faith in you, and you are doing an amazing job. Your mum is looking down from heaven proudly smiling and that spontaneous kiss from Beth this morning was from her to say "I love you and I miss you" . Happy Birthday Gorgeous!

Mission Impossible IV - Trying to Get a Photo of Mai Beth!

Mai Beth is Priceless...

After spending some time in Hong Kong Ty and I headed to Brisbane to see my brother Phan, Clara and my beautiful niece Mai. When she first saw us she was a bit hesitant but didn't take long to get over her shyness. Ty and I were so tired because we hadn't slept for about 26 hours. It is impossible to sleep on an areoplane in economy class. We had a nanna's nap and then went out for dinner at a Vietnamese restaurant that they frequent. Beth sat in a high chair and had her own menu which she read in great detail, it was so funny.

The next day Clara and I went to DFO for some retail therapy. Brisbane DFO is awesome there are so many bargains. I managed to buy 3 pairs of shoes on sale in my size, which doesn't happen very often, it's very hard to find size 5's on sale. After two and a half hours of shopping we both had some new clothes for summer and presents for Beth too. Beth had stayed home with Phan and Ty who were watching the footy, they taught her how to do the signs for "goal" and "holding the ball", which was hilarious.

We were also lucky enough to see Beth at Kindy Roo. I know I'm biased but she is so smart and adorable. Watching her play at Kind Roo I had tears in my eyes, seeing her grow up into a confident and loving girl just made me so happy. The few days I spent with Beth were some of the happiest days of my life. She would give me kisses whenever I wanted them and would spin, dance, talk and laugh constantly. I can't imagine life without her, she completes our family and every moment with her is a gift.

Diary of our holiday...

Day 1 - We arrived in Hong Kong around 11pm the night before. The humidity and heat was initially a pleasant surprise compared to the winter chill of Adelaide. After collecting our luggage we went to get our taxi for the transfer to our hotel, and discovered that our travel agent had booked the transfer for the wrong hotel. So we just made our own way there. After checking in Ty and I just crashed, it had been a long flight and we we were exhausted. The next day after a good sleep, we used the hotel shuttle to go to Harbour City which is a massive shopping complex. It is three times the size of Marion. I couldn't believe how many shops there were, it was actually overwhelming. You can find every brand under the sun from Kookai, Fcuk to high end brands such as Gucci and Prada. I bought a Celine purse which I absolutely love!

After spending most of the day at Harbour City, Ty and I headed to Hong Kong harbour. The locals spend the afternoon sitting around the pier and surrounding areas. Ty and I decided to join them, it was fun to just observe the culture. We then spent the evening on the pre-dinner cruise, which gives you a tour of Hong Kong harbour. The boat ride lasted for about 40 minutes and Hong Kong harbour lit up at night is beautiful.

Day 2 - The next day Ty and I went to Ocean Park which is similiar to Sea World. The weather was extremely hot and humid. The first ride we went on was called the "Raging River", I am such a chicken and hate rides. I was screaming all the way as it went down the slide and we got splashed. The ride takes photos and Ty had to buy it, the look of fear on my face was priceless, I looked like I was crying! We also got to see one of the shows where dolphins and seals do all sorts of tricks, they were so cute! Overall I didn't enjoy Ocean Park, I don't think the layout has been done very well. There aren't many signs so the map can be confusing to read. It has also been built over the three levels so it's extremely hilly.

Day 3 - Ty woke up all excited because we were going to Hong Kong Disneyland. We went down to see the concierge to pick up our shuttle tickets and he told us that there was a rating 8 typhoon and Disneyland was closed. In fact everything was closed even the shopping centres so we there wasn't anywhere for us to go. I spent the day in the hotel room sleeping and watching tv. There is a show on in Hong Kong that is hilarious. It's called "Beautiful Cooking" Ty and I were like "why is it called that". It's basically a show where a group of hot girls are cooking while some men sit and judge there cooking abilities. It's such a politically incorrect show but we found it quite funny.

Day 4 - Today we finally made it to Disneyland, and I'm so glad Ty talked me into going, it was awesome! Disneyland is the kind of place where you can just be a kid again and you can't help but feel happy. The queues for all the rides and attractions weren't very long so we managed to do alot. Ty convinced me to go on Space Mountain, I sreamed my lungs out, I'm such a wuss. We also managed to get photos with most of the Disney characters which was alot of fun. We also saw a fantastic 4D show with all the theme songs from Disney movies such as Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King and Little Mermaid.

Overall we had a good time in Hong Kong, the shopping was fantastic. Prices weren't as cheap as expected but there was such a huge selection. I don't think Ty and I would go back to Hong Kong, because even though we enjoyed ourselves we were disappointed with it overall. It was just good to get away from the cold and spend time together.

Ty-phoon in Hong Kong!

Today Ty and I woke up excited at the prospect of going to Disneyland Ty was more excited than me! Anyway we get downstairs and are advised by the concierge that there is a rating 8 typhoon and everything is closed including Disneyland! Even the shopping malls are shut so basically there is nowhere for us to go. We spent the day in our hotel rooms, bored to death and I slept for most of the day, hence the time to update this blog.

Hong Kong has been alot of fun so far, but I find myself comparing it to Vietnam, which was awesome! There is an expectation here that Ty and I can speak the language so we get treated quite badly when we tell them we can't. I think they assume we are ex-pats who moved to a country and are trying to be more "western". The irony is in Vietnam eveyone spoke to me in English no-one thought I was Vietnamese. The shopping here is amazing, but quite expensive. There are alot of designer brands which are cheaper than back home. I found a great purse that I can't get in Australia which was a great buy.

We had hoped to buy presents for family back home, but it has been impossible to find anything that is not cheap and tacky. So we decided to only get the nieces things and no-one else to keep it fair. I only managed to find something for Beth yesterday at an outlet which I can't wait to give her, fingers crossed they fit.

Tomorrow we are going to try and get to Disneyland again, because we have been told the typhoon should pass by tonight, and there will only be rain tomorrow which we can handle. It's ironic there is a typhoon, cos "phoon" is Ty's nickname from some of his closest friends. It's really our last day to do anything because we fly out on Friday. I'm disappointed I didn't get to see the Stanley Markets but you can't control mother nature.

Only 3 more sleeps til I see Beth I'm so excited!!!

6 Days til Hong Kong...

It's been a while since I've done an entry so I thought I better write something for my "many" readers, I'm sure there are thousands of you :). I have been really sick for the last week. It's amazing how being sick can mess with your mind emotionally. I have been feeling really down, what they might call the winter blues. Everything was such a chore and I had no motivation to do anything. I'm hoping I'll snap out of it in time for my new job because I'll have alot to learn.

Yesterday I went to the winter bridal expo with Aisha, Connie and Matt's parents. Walking around the expo made me so happy I wasn't planning a wedding. But I have to admit besides Chi, Aisha is one of the most relaxed brides I've seen, or she isn't showing her stress too much. The wedding business is such a money making machine, even if I wanted to get married right now I don't think it we could afford it, everything is so expensive!! I must have forgotten my experience from my first wedding.

Ty and I leave for Hong Kong in 6 days, this trip was planned and paid for in January and the date has finally arrived. We have had an exciting year buying a house together and now our first trip overseas together. After Hong Kong we will be in Brisbane to see Clara, Phan and my beautiful niece Mai. I'm really excited about this trip and being away with Ty.

Life is constantly changing...

Well as you have probably read I have been quite unhappy in my current job. I started job hunting again a few weeks ago. One of the jobs I applied for was with Westpac as a Home Finance Manager, and I am happy to say I was succesful. After a couple of interviews which were quite in depth my new boss rang to say "Congratulations!" I had been dreading telling my current boss that I was resigning because she has been so good to me. In the end I didn't need to worry she was very understanding and told me she knew I had been unhappy for a while now. She realises the importance of being happy at work, considering how much time we spend there. I have learnt alot from my current job, and I will take those new skills with me. I feel I have made the right decision. I start at Westpac after we get back from Hong Kong so it works out perfectly.

Our new Abode...

There is no cure for handbag addiction!

Ty will never play Poker with me again...

The last week has been completely chaotic at work. Our renewal process is coming to an end and clients are ringing in wanting to pay before the 30th of June. The frustrating thing is when they haven't even sent us their renewal form but expect it to be done straight away considering the due date was 18th of May! There has been a lot of stress and I hear staff around me explaining to doctors that it might not be processed before the 30th, due to them being so late. Client services are really under the pump at the moment and I feel for them. We also have temps whose job it is just to process payments, a concept lost on them. They spend time talking and surfing the net, and because of that make too many stupid errors. We won't be using temps from that company again!

Last night Ty and I went to Ben's place to play Texas Hold Em Poker. There were 8 people in total. But they played the game quite differently to how I would. They didn't raise the blinds, and there was always a limit to how much you could raise. Whereas I have always played it where you can keeping raising the ante, hence the term No Limits Hold Em. Anyway Ty and I did quite well. But at one point Ty was bluffing which I didn't realise and I looked at his cards. I thought he was going for a straight and I assumed he thought that's what he had, but he was only bluffing. People were falling for his bluff and betting higher but I said to him "Are you sure babe?" and kept looking at him. Well that ruined it for him and they realised he was bluffing. He was not happy with me!!! It was quite funny but not for Ty! All in all it was a great night.

I stood up for myself...

I had an important moment at work yesterday. Those people who know me would describe as loud, and opiniated but when it comes to standing up for myself at work or in social situations I avoid it like the plague. I hate confrontation and would rather bottle up my frustrations and then go home and complain to Ty :). Well yesterday one of the girls must have caught me at a bad time when I had had enough. I had a doctor on the phone who wanted to know if he had paid. He had two invoices with us, and I wasn't sure where to look (baring in mind that this is not part of my job and I was helping out the girls by taking the overflow of calls because we are soooo busy). I put the doctor on hold and asked someone whose position it is to help the rest of us. She started yelling at me and everyone could hear so I said to her "Stop yelling at me I've never been shown how to do this, and I'm asking lots of questions so I know what to do next time." She yelled back and then said "I'll go through everything and find it for you" I was so angry so I just said "Don't bother I'll do it myself". I then burst into tears and ran downstairs to ring Ty, who felt so bad for me because I was very upset and sobbing. Just another day at my workplace.

One of the lawyers there told the HR manager I had been crying so she took me downstairs for a coffee. I just spilled my beans about work, and she was so understanding which was fantastic. The girl and I have talked things through which I thought was good and now it's all water under the bridge, I thought that was very mature of me, but I'm generally a very forgiving person, my family think I'm too forgiving sometimes. I was so proud of myself and my friend Alicia told me I handled myself very well, snaps for me!

I like the name Mattius sorry Chi...

Ty and I just had a really enjoyable weekend. On Saturday we didn't do alot and it was nice just to potter around the house. Saturday night we did the usual dinner at mum and dads, mum made banh xeo yummy!

On Sunday we had Chi, Mitch, Thomas, Matt, Aisha, Mel, Phong and Phi around our place for a BBQ. It was the rehearsel bbq before the actual house warming which is turning out to be quite big. Thomas is absolutely adorable and so cheeky. Before dinner we watched Transformers in HD and Matt was in heaven, he doesn't have HD at his place, and it is one of his favourite movies. Ty was so funny he acts so proud of his home entertainment set up, but the way he acts you would think he invented HD and LCD tvs. Mitch had never seen it and he loved it. At the beginning Thomas sat really still and watched it but then he got restless. Ty got him to play some drums which he loved, you just can't stand near him when he has those sticks, he could poke your eye out. He is such an odd kid (in a good way) he would sometimes just break out into a weird dance for no apparent reason it was hilarious. His hair is getting longer but it suits him.

Mitch showed me some more of his photography and we ordered four prints to put in the hallway to our house. They are black and white and look amazing can't wait to get them. It was great to see Chi and Mitch again and especially Thomas, I managed to get some great sloppy kisses from him too. He didn't mind the dogs too much but I think George's hyperactivity scared him abit. He liked Keith alot more, and would sometimes pat him but still stay a distance away. Mitch wants to give the name Mattius as a middle name to their next boy. It's related to some Formula 1 driver not sure which one, Mitch's favourite driver. I like the name.

The next few weeks are going to be very busy socially and work wise which is good. Hong Kong is not far away!

Naturally 7 Naturally Wonderful...

It's been a busy time for Ty and I. Last night we went to see Michael Buble in concert and he was awesome. We got the tickets by sheer luck because Melissa's sister couldn't go so she sold them to us at a cheaper price, we saved $50 which was cool. I didn't even know that he was back in Adelaide because his first concert was sold out, and I was disappointed at the time that I didn't have tickets.

He had an opening act called Naturally 7 and they were amazing. They have no musical instruments and make the sounds themselves, eg drums, guitar, trumpet and bass. The guy who did the drums sounded so real. At some points you actually think that they have a backing CD playing some music in the background but they don't. The lead guy got each band member to do the musical instrument noise on his own to prove that it was them and not a backing CD. My favourite part was when they sang Ave Maria, I got goose bumps.

Buble came on next and he was so sexy. He moves so well and his interaction with the crowd is fantastic. At one point he asked us to raise our right hands and we did, and then he said "okay now rub your hands on the person's leg to your right" it was hilarious. He also pretended to have a diva tantrum because we cheered for his band really loudly. So he stormed off stage and his trumpet guy said "Buble's a diva and he lip synchs his concerts" just funny stuff like that. He also went into the audience and took a photo with a 9 year old boy, because he thought it was so great that a child was at a jazz concert, passing on the legacy of the great jazz musicians in the past. The highlight for me was when it was just him and the piano singing "Song for You" and an Elvis song, the audience was so quiet. When he played his song "Home" he put up landmarks of Adelaide which was so cool. When he put up the footy codes hardly anyone cheered for Port Power and when it showed the Adelaide Crows there was this massive cheer, even the soccer team Adelaide United got a louder response, I thought that was funny.

Ty and I have set a date for our housewarming so now we are just busy planning that we have plenty of time. But there is still alot of work to do around the house. Work has been extremely busy which is good makes the days go quicker. Looking forward to the weeekend. We are having Chi, Mitch, Thomas, Aisha, Matt and my brothers around for a BBQ on Sunday.

The weekend just goes too fast...

The last week at work really dragged even though it was only a four day week. On Friday night I went into town with Aisha to have a look around at the sales. I saw a gorgeous toggle jacket in Cue but on sale it was still priced at $329, which I couldn't justify. We went to Penang Hawkers Corner the best place in Adelaide to have Ho Fun.

Saturday we didn't do anything interesting. We just pottered around the house but I really enjoyed being at home doing nothing. We went to mum and dads house for dinner and phoned Beth on Skype. She is such a little performer and knows what to do to make us laugh.

We had Simon and Mike around today for a BBQ the first one in our new house. We used the outdoor setting that mum and dad gave us. The weather was perfect all in all it was a great day. Mike kept saying how much he liked the house. It was nice to hear someone else say that, we love our house but we are biased.

I hate busy bodies...

Well this post is going to be a whiny venting one. There is a lady at my work who is driving me insane at the moment. When I have coversations with people she will pipe up and put her 2 cents in when I really don't want her opinion. I also think she doesn't respect what I can add to the company at all. She will make comments like "well anh can't teach anyone anything" or "if I need help I don't go to Anh" , it's all said in jest, but things said jokingly sometimes have a hidden meaning behind them. This person is someone I have to work closely with so it's hard to avoid her, I was close to tears today because she was having a go at me, I felt like saying "Do you realise what a busybody you are and that I'm not the only one that thinks so?" but I didn't. Work has been really stressing me out at the moment. I don't fit in with the culture there at all. The product I work with is really interesting but the company is very restrictive and they don't empower their staff at all. They make you question your judgement and the rules keep changing that you can't help but make errors because you don't know what is happening from one moment to the next.

Anyway enough of my whingeing. I went shopping again with mum tonight. She has turned into a shopaholic. I got some pj's from Sussans and she bought some cardigans and a skivvy. Mum also got a great bargain on some Sheridan quilt sets they were 50% off.

We are hoping to have a house warming very soon. Probably beginning of July but it depends on when Matt and Aisha have their engagement party too. The guest list is quite long so I'm going to have to narrow it down. I bought some bookcases from Freedom the other day to go in the lounge room and they are being delivered this Saturday. We only have the matching armchair to go and then that's all the furniture needed for the house. It's looking really good, and I hope to put some photos up soon.

We have moved in!

Sorry it's been so long since I've blogged, but things have been a bit crazy. Ty and I moved into our new place on the 16th of May. Most of the unpacking is done, but there is still the spare room to go. Ty is very happy because he now has a 52" Sony Bravia which fits in our lounge perfectly. I am loving HD which I never thought I would care about it. But the other day I was watching Foxtel and thought to myself the picture quality is crap, Phan would be so proud!

Work has been a bit slow, which drives me crazy because the days just drag. They think it will pick up next week. I worked at the Medical Careers Expo a week ago, and bumped into Jo and Bec it was great to see them. I also bumped into some people from church who I think were wanting to push their children into becoming doctors. I felt so bad for them because you could see they weren't interested in it at all.

Matt and Aisha are engaged and I've been asked to be a bridesmaid. First thing I thought was man I have to lose weight. Aisha is a stick and I will look like a whale next to her. She will make a beautiful bride, and I'm getting excited because I'm going to help her plan the wedding. The story of their proposal is so funny. They were in Queensland and Matt says to Aisha "I think we should go out to dinner to celebrate" Aisha's like "Celebrate what?" and Matt says "Celebrate if you say yes to marrying me". Thats so Matt to say it casually, but he did get down on one knee. And he went and got the ring made based on a Tiffany ring design that Aisha loved. He has done very well and the ring is beautiful.

Last night Aisha and I went to see Sex and the City. I thought it was pretty good, but the experience was ruined by a group of girls who sat near us and were very annoying. They kept talking as if they were in their lounge room at home. When the movie started they decided to applaud and wolf whistle. Aisha and I thought they were very over the top and frustrating.

Well it's the long weekend and I plan to do nothing for the rest of the time. It's nice to stay home and enjoy our new place. We are loving it. George and Keith are quickly becoming best friends and they get along really well.

One More Sleep!

Only one more sleep until Ty and I are in our new house. The process has felt like it has gone on forever. We had a much longer settlement than standard, so after three months we will finally be in our new place. I'm looking forward to doing some nesting and decorating. Once the house is all set up Ty and I will have our little projects that we have been wanting to work on, which is very exciting, stay tuned for that :) !

Work has been very frustrating for me right now. One of the girls at work has been off sick for the last three days, which doesn't bother me, when your sick your sick. But I have been doing her job and putting mine on the backburner because we are extremely busy at the moment. The reason I'm annoyed is because I wanted to get time off to move, just one day, but because we are so busy work wouldn't allow it. I also have to attend 2 work functions two weekends in a row after we have moved when all I want to do is stay home and enjoy the new place.

The good news is Ty's 52" inch Sony Bravia is being delivered on Friday and so is my new fridge so things are going to plan (knock on wood). The last couple of days has been so stressful, trying to get everything packed and ready to go. Tonight after a long day at work I get to come home and clean! Sorry just having a whinge, I guess it will be all worth it in the end!

Happy Mother's Day!

Today is mother's day, so I want to wish my mum a Happy Mother's Day. Thank you for everything you do for and all the sacrifices you have made. I also want to wish my sister Clara a happy mothers day. I see you do such an amazing job with Beth, she is growing up into a beautiful intellingent and cheeky girl. I know today must be hard for you. And even though your mum is no longer here, I know she has been there for all of your milestones and achievements with Beth. She would be so proud of you. You are a great mum because your mum was a great mum. She made you into the fantastic person you are today and I love you lots sis!

Feeling a bit sad...

Well it's only 6 days til Ty and I move out of my unit and I'm feeling quite sad. This unit represents a significant time and place in my life. When I first moved in I was so scared. At the age of 30 I had never lived alone before. I went straight from moving into living with my parents to living with Adam when we got married. When Adam and I split up it was one of the hardest things I have ever had to go through. The term "heart break" is so true I felt like literally my heart was breaking. The night I found out that he had been having an affair was traumatic. I remember not being able to breathe and going into shock. Then later that night crying like a child while Phan held me in his arms like I was five again. I was so blessed to have my friends Chi and Mitch, Phan and Clara and my whole family take care of me.

When I moved into this unit I had to learn alot about myself. I had to learn that it was okay to be alone and to be comfortable in my skin. I remember going to my parents place for dinner and seeing Phan leave with Beth and Clara and feeling so alone. Knowing I had to go back to an empty unit where there was no one to be excited that I was home. Jessie my dog was a godsend in those days she kept me happy and wanting to go on. I would be lying if I didn't admit that I had contemplated ending it all. But knowing how much that would hurt my family I had to be strong.

Over the next few months I became a person I never thought I could be. I lost 10 kilos from the stress but it was a good thing. I started to excel in my job and eventually even got a promotion from it. I won the respect of my parents who were amazed at how strong a woman I had become. When life throws obstacles at you, you amaze yourself at how much you can take on. Living in this unit on my own made me realise that I can do and achieve anything I set my mind too. My life has been extremely hard and some things are too personal to mention on this blog. But when I think that I have been dealt a rough hand, I remember that I have so much to be thankful for.

I'm thankful for my niece Beth who is the love of my life. Seeing her smile warms my heart. I never thought I could love someone as much as I love her. I'm thankful for Phan and Clara, I admire their strength, kindness and loyalty. I'm thankful for my parents who have stood by me through everything. I'm thankful for Phong and Phi who always make me laugh with their silliness and teasing. I'm thankful for my friends who have stood by me throught thick and thin without judgement only support especially Chi and Mitch. And I'm thankful for Ty. Sometimes you have to have your heartbroken to realise that your soulmate is out there. Ty I love you so much and can't wait to start our new life together in 6 days.

I know this blog has been quite sad and raw. And even as I type I feel sad about the past but excited about the future.

"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish he didn't trust me so much" Mother Teresa.

I can't see :)

Ty and I went and had our eyes checked tonight. We went to see Peter Dickson at National Pharmacies who treated my whole family while we were growing up. He has such a fantastic memory he remembered the level of mum's prescription, but he said that she was a rare case. He asked how Phan was doing in QLD. He is such a cool optometrist so friendly and easygoing. Anyway we both found out that our eyes have got worse. Ty needs new contact lenses, and I am not allowed to legally drive without glasses on. He said working with computers all day has damaged my eyes and dried them out. He recommended taking drops everyday and gave me a sample to try. My eyes also have sun damage due to the fact that I don't wear sunglasses enough. So I'm glad we both went and had our eyes checked sounds like it was about time.

Besides that nothing else exciting has been happening. We have got mother's day this weekend so it will be nice to see our mums and thank them for everything they have done for us.

Happy Birthday Ty!

Today is Ty's 34th birthday. He doesn't actually know his real birthday because he deosn't have a proper birth certificate. But he celebrates it on the 7th of May because that is the day he arrived in Australia and was adopted by his parents. I think that's so special and I'm glad he was chosen to come to Australia or we would never have met.

Besides that nothing much has been happening in Adelaide work is slowly getting busier. A girl at work celebrated her 40th today and she got so many flowers she could have started her own florist. I teased her that she was sending them to herself. She is a very popular girl.

On Friday night Ty and I are going out for dinner to celebrate his birthday properly and then we are going to see the new Keanu Reeves movie Street Kings, should be a good night!

Sunday Bloody Sunday...

We are listening to U2 at the moment so I just felt like using that as a title. Last night Ty and I went to Hong's wedding. As expected she looked absolutely stunning. Her wedding dress was probably the nicest dress I have ever seen. It was a beautiful a-line dress but it was covered in lace with a dimante brooch. The dress was made in Vietnam and only cost her around $600 but she had to have it fixed in Australia. Freddie looked very handsome in his suit, they make a very good looking couple.

It was great to catch up with Tuyet Anh and hear all sorts of funny stories about her boys. Her boy Dan-Hien is so cheeky and very mischevious, and Phi is so cute. They both gave me great sloppy kisses. She should be so proud of herself looking after three boys and she does such a great job, they are so adorable and polite kids. I also saw Tuoi's little boy Xanthus who is a very handsome looking kid, and his sister Leticia looked beautiful as the flower girl. Dieu's little girl Charlie was there she is now 6months old and such an easy girl she let me hold her and kept smiling at me. These group of friends I used to see on a regular basis but it's so hard to catch up because everyone's life is so busy. And I miss them alot, so it was great to spend some time with them.

I also saw my cousin Kim at the wedding and he told me that he is getting married in November so we will have another wedding to go to then. All in all it was a great night and Ty looked very handsome in his suit and new tie, I'm one lucky girl.

George arrived early!

This week at work has been a bit insane! I've had to do marketing proposals for Western Australia Medical School, and talk to a lot of new doctors about our product. At least the week has gone fast. Start of the week I was feeling really sick and even the trusty Codral wasn't helping. I couldn't take time off work because it was too busy. By the end of the week I started to feel better so that was good.

George wasn't meant to arrive til next Tuesday night but he managed to get on a plane early and arrived from Canberra last night. He is just too cute. Aisha went to the airport with me and Ty to pick him up. She is normally not a dog person and even she likes him. Simon got George a collar with a little bottle that opens up and inside is a piece of paper with all his details on it. We played with him til about 11:30 and then put him to bed. He whined excessively for about 1/2 an hour and then after that slept through to 6am which is pretty good. Puppies I've had in the past have whined all night so I was happy with that.

Keith (Ty's dog) is a bit jealous about the new addition to the family but they are slowly starting to get along. George just wants to play with Keith who wants to be left alone it's quite funny.

I am getting a dog!

I am so excited because now that we have our house Ty and I are getting a dog just for me. I have missed Jessie so much so we have decided to get me my own dog. His name is George and he is arriving next Tuesday. Simon (Ty's friend) bought one too and George is going to stay with Turbo until we have settled into our new place.

Keith will have a friend to play with while we are at work. Our new house has a huge backyard and lots of enclosed areas so they can both run around freely. George is a long haired jack russel. Check out the photos of him below.

Too Rude for Facebook - Hong's Hens Night!

Our House...

Busy Bee

Work has begun has it's busy period. We have sent the paper work for doctors to renew their insurance. I have been given more marketing responsibilities which has been fantastic. Ty and I will be attending the MedBall on the 17th of May my boss thought I would have more fun going with Ty than with him. The timing is really bad though because that's the weekend we move into our house.

I have found a fantastic supplier in Melbourne who are representatives for Mindy Mason, Cellini and other great brands so my business can now expand into other brands.

I am emotionally very happy at the moment. When I went to my friends hens night I saw Tuoi and she lost a tonne of weight and I asked her what diet she was on. It was the Herbalife one so I am going to start it tomorrow and see how I go. I was on Xenical but that wasn't working for me, so I'm going to give this a shot. I will keep you posted about my weight loss fingers crossed.

Have had a great long weekend!

Ty and I have had such a fantastic three days together, we even played some shooting games in the arcade. Today we went to Simon's place for lunch and he made roast on the weber, it was delicious as always. I took some photos of his kitchen because I think it looks so amazing. He told me you can get Smeg fridges that are larger but they cost a fortune! He is always great fun to be around, and we talked about different dogs because I am going to get one when we move into the new house.

What a night!

Tonight I went to Chris and Marika's engagement party with Ty. Dinner was at Boticelli's on Flinders Street and the food was awesome. I had the spaghetti marinara and Ty had scotch fillet and I have to say it is the best Italian food I've ever had in Adelaide. Chris and Marika looked so happy and her engagement ring was really pretty, it was a pink sapphire on white gold which was a bit different.

After the dinner I went to my friend Hong's hens night which was hilarious. We went to the Buddha Bar and had a private function room for karaoke. At about 11pm the stripper arrived dressed in medieval gear. It was an x rated version and Hong was such a good sport. It was so good to see my friends Tuoi, Dieu and Tuyet Anh I haven't seen them in so long. Although I only saw Tweetie for about 15 mins cos she had to go home to her three boys. All in all it was a fantastic night!

Blogging is addictive!

I can't believe it this is my third post in one day. It's 1:16am and Ty and I just got home from dinner and a movie with Matt and Aisha. I thought I would quickly jump on and see if Clara had blogged and she had! And felt awake enough to do my own.

We had dinner at Caffe Boungiorno's the food wasn't too bad lots of good conversation. After dinner we saw the movie Forgetting Sarah Marshall which was hilarious. I definitely recommend watching it, warning there is a bit of male frontal nudity which was off putting but besides that a highly enjoyable romantic comedy. Ty and I joined the Hoyts Movie Club. It's $25 per year and you get $9 movies twice per day (for 2 people) and including saturday nights. We thought it was a great deal cos we like going to the movies.

After the movies we went back to Matt and Aisha's place for coffee and cupcakes. We started planning their wedding even though they aren't engaged which was quite funny. Matt and Ty watched some random show about console games which was very nerdy. But I can't talk I'm blogging at 1 in the morning WTF???

One social event down 3 more to go. I am going to be sooo tired on Monday!

Experimenting with Picassa

 

At the Airport

 

Beth has left the building!

Well we just saw Beth Phan and Clara off at the airport and it was very sad! I managed to hold my tears in until they got on the plane. After the airport Ty and I went to Ikea to have a look around. We are getting storage ideas for our new house, plus there are some odds and ends we need. It's not far now and I managed to do some packing this morning. Most of the kitchen stuff is packed and I will probably do some more on Sunday.

Tonight we are going out for dinner and a movie with Matt and Aisha. Anthony might come along. I am feeling quite sick but the Codral seems to be helping.

One more night!

Well it's only one more night til Beth, Phan and Clara go back to Brisbane, and I am so sad. It has been so wonderful having them here in Adelaide. We had a farewell dinner for them tonight and mum made steamboat which was delicious. Beth has had an accident prone day today. She cut her lip which bled and it broke my heart to see her cry I actually starting getting teary pethatic I know. And then she went to TTP with Phan and Clara for a babycino and got her hand stuck between the seats at the food court and it got a bit bruised poor thing. Phan wanted to buy her a Wiggles guitar cos she had been hurt so many times, but Clara wouldn't let him ha haa.

She was in fine form over dinner making really loud laughing noises. And doing her no deal but really excitedly. She also kept making faces at dad the one we call her "ugly face" it was so cute!

Tomorrow we are going over to mum and dad's for a farewell lunch, and then they go to the airport and leave around 3 ish. I am sooooo sad, a day of tears I think! I love my niece so much she is the love of my life (besides ty of course). And since the day she was born I have been a much happier person.

My Favourite Handbags

Coming soon... Oriental Blossom

I have been doing alot of soul searching lately. And I think I am going through a mid mid-life crisis. To be honest I am not happy in my job and I need a new challenge. So I have decided to enter the retail industry as a side job. Therefore I give you the beginnings of Oriental Blossom, the beginnings of my venture into the online shopping boom. This is only a start but keep your eyes peeled. I am hoping this will give me a stepping stone into one day owning my own shop.

I am a true believer in doing what you love. My whole life I have worked in jobs where I have done it just to pay the bills. And while I know most people do that, I don't want to be one of them. I have been through too much in my life to keep wasting it. I want to be happy and fulfilled. Therefore I will be joining a government funded group that help people start their own business. I know I am taking a huge risk but I am not worried I feel I need to do this to end any doubts. I feel I was always meant to have this shop and if it doesn't work out I won't have any regrets because I know at least I tried.

All the most succesful people in the world started at the bottom and were told they wouldn't make it. But they took that risk and that is what makes them successful. Oprah was told that if she didn't change her name she would never be successful she ignored the doubters. And she is now one of the most successful business women in the world. I am no Oprah but in some small way I hope to live my dream and I hope you will follow me on this journey. I will keep you posted. Watch this space.

Our Humble Abode in Athelstone.

Starting to feel sad :(

Well it's only two more sleeps til Beth, Clara and Phan leave Adelaide and head back to Brisbane. The last few days have been so good for me emotionally. I have been alot happier since they have been back and it will be sad to see them go.

Beth has been so funny and kept us in hysterics. She can dance, loves to talk saying "mum mum" and "daddy", can do no deal, hi five, and give kisses. I am going to miss her so much.

This weekend is going to be jammed pack. Anzac Day we say goodbye to Beth. At night we are going to dinner and a movie with Aisha Matt and Anthony. Saturday I am having lunch with Lyna. Saturday night is Marika and Chris's engagement and then I have a hens night after the dinner. On Sunday we are going to Simon's place for a bbq. On Monday I will need to go back to work to rest.

Will let you know how the weekend pans out and if I survive.

Great Day

On Sunday we had a party for my brother Phan's 30th and it was a great day. He was a very reluctant birthday boy and it took alot of convincing from Clara that he needed to do something for his 30th. As usual Clara and I got way too much food, but her idea of getting half bbq chickens and half meat worked out really well. The party didn't feel like much work at all.

We did a Superman (Phan's favourite Superhero) theme and Ty photo shopped a photo of him looking like Superman which was hilarious. We also embarrassed him and put up photos of him as a kid and very dorky primary school boy. I did a speech and revealed a lot of little secrets about him that only his family know, needless to say I am worried about what he is going to say on my 40th.

I got to catch up with Chi, Mitch and Thomas who is a crack up. Him and Mai were watching Hi - 5 and he kept pushing Beth who didn't appreciate that one little bit. She likes her space and Thomas is definitely a close talker. But they were so cute, at one point Thomas wanted to dance with Beth but by then she had decided that he was a bully : ) . Thomas is such a good looking boy and one day is going to break some hearts, watch out ladies, plus he gives the best sloppy kisses.

All in all a great day was had, and in the end I think Phan was glad that he got to catch up with everyone while he was in Adelaide.

It's great to have my niece back in Adelaide!

The last couple of weeks at work has been really slow, which I hate because the day just drags. I had to do my second presentation on behalf of MIGA (where I work) to Adelaide Uni tonight which went well. I'm getting more comfortable with presentations and I don't get as nervous as I used to.

Socially things have been great. Our friends Marika and Chris just got engaged and we are so happy for them. They are such a cute couple and so in love. Chris picked out the ring himself which was a brave move but Marika loved it. Last weekend Ty and I went to the Matchbox 20 concert and it was AWESOME. Rob Thomas is such a fantastic live performer and he is so hot. They played two of our favourite songs, Hang and When You're Gone.

On Tuesday Phan, Clara and Beth came down from Brisbane, and it feels like mum and dad's house has come alive again. Beth is just too cute, she has grown up so much since the last time we saw her. She has more teeth and she walks around like a little penguin. She has a really funny dance move and loves boogie-ing to her favourite tunes. She is so well behaved and a really easy going happy little girl. It's been so wonderful having her home, and I look forward to the end of my work day when I can go home and play with my gorgeous niece. It's also been great having Phan home and seeing him be silly and interact with my other brothers it's heart warming. And I have Clara back to gossip and just have our girly chats with which I've really missed. It's going to be so sad when they go back to Brissie, it sucks that they have to live there for the next 2 years, but at least we get them back eventually.

Maroon 5 Concert

Last night Ty, Aisha and I went to the Maroon 5 concert. The opening act was One Republic, they were okay but most of their songs sounded the same. The highlight of their performance was hearing Apologise. Maroon 5 opened with "Harder to Breathe" and that sounded awesome. But the concert was very short only 1hr 15 minutes, and the lead singer Adam Levine wasn't very warm or friendly. At times the music felt too loud and I thought I was getting old, but a reviewer also commented on the sound level. What songs they actually performed were really good but you left feeling a bit ripped off. Overall one of the more disappointing concerts I've been too. Our moods weren't fantastic, Aisha and I were really tired and Ty was sick.

As mentioned Ty has gastro and isn't feeling well at all. It's a good thing I stocked up on toilet paper cos he spends most of his time in there at the moment. There must be a bug going around because I've been feeling really run down and congested, looks like the winter colds are coming round.

Beautiful Wedding....

On saturday I went to Thao and Ray's wedding, and it was beautiful. The colour scheme was sage green which was also the colour of the bridemaid's dresses. Thao as expected looked absolutely stunning in a satin gathered bodice ivory gown. The reception was held at the Port Melbourne Yacht Club which had a view of the water with the boats and lights as a backdrop, beautiful. I also loved the cake. I sat next to her uncle Bao who I hadn't seen for 16 years. It was a bit awkward at first because he is so shy but as the evening went on he talked a bit more. I also got to catch up with her sister Trang and younger sister Liz who is a stunner. In all it was a great night. Congratulations to the happy couple, I wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

The hotel I stayed at in Melbourne was terrible. My room smelt like cigarette smoke and on saturday night there was the sound of revellers all night, great! I won't be staying there again, although the service was really good. I did a bit of retail therapy in Melbourne, got myself a Tommy Hilfiger top, and Ty some underwear. It's weird being in a different city by yourself you feel so lonely. Normally it wouldn't bother me to shop alone but in Melbourne I really missed Ty and home.

I did a bao thing while at the airport. I was doing the whole online check in thing and I wanted to sit at the front of the airplane so I could get off quicker. So when the computer assigned my seats I said to the Qantas guy where is the front of the plane and he pointed to a picture of the plane (which I hadn't seen) and said "the nose of the plane is the front and that is back" i felt so stupid duh!

The generosity of strangers!

Clara's blog inspired to write about my own experience recently with the generosity of strangers. As you've probably read previously Ty is doing the Relay for Life walk which raises money for cancer. I sent an email around at work and the response was amazing. People who had never met Ty or hardly knew him donated their hard earned cash to this worthy cause. It made me feel so appreciative to have such lovely and supportive work colleagues. Ty will be doing a special lap for MIGA! Ty has told me how much it means to him, knowing that people support what he does. He truly believes in his charity work and works so hard at it. Did I mention how great he is :) ?

I have been back in contact with an old friend from Adelaide Simon. We have been sms'ing back and forth and he sent me a funny email last night. In the middle of the email he writes "do you like cheese" so random but hysterical at the same time. There are people who walk through your life that leave their mark and you will never forget them. Well Simon is one of those people. I love him dearly and wished he lived in Adelaide.

This week has gone very fast and work is very busy at the moment. I'm going to visit the Vietnamese doctors to do a meet and greet so that should be good.

Our house is filled with boxes at the moment as we prepare to move. The mess is driving me crazy so I'm counting down the days til we move. I have been so slack with packing just the least un fun thing to do ever!

"Sometimes life throws you little suprises and you just have to sit back, take a breath and think I can do this." (bao comment)

Saved my previous post but didn't even write about Beth!

I was meant to mention in my previous blog hence the title that I spoke to my niece on skype tonight and she was hilarious. Walking around like a Pengiun with a motor on her ass. She is sooo funny, she has grown up so quickly! Thank God for technology and Clara's blog or else I would be missing out on much more of her antics. She is still addicted to watermelon. You can really see her cheekiness and naughty side start to come through sometimes when Clara and Phan try to get her to do stuff. Don't think Phan has much chance of disciplining her I think Clara will be the one doing the "telling off". But you can't stay angry at the face for long just too cute!

How did Beth grow up so quickly?

Well back at work today and it was quite busy. The printer and photocopier broke down in the morning and weren't back online til half way through the day so that was convenient. Adelaide has finally had some rain, AWESOME, cos we need it!

I am in the middle of deciding what to wear to Thao's wedding I have a few outfits picked out so it's not a huge problem but am torn between a dress or pants. I will probably decide on the day. I am quite excited about her wedding it should be good, looks like it will be typical Melbourne weather though with the rain.

Ty is doing the relay for life this weekend to raise money for the Anti Cancer Foundation, my work colleagues have been quite generous and donated quite a bit of money which was good. I am so proud of his charity work and am sad that I can't be here to spur him on, but I will be thinking of him while partying in Melbourne he he hee.

Not work tomorrow!

Well it's Easter Monday which means back to work tomorrow. I always love the Easter Long Weekend because everything slows down for a bit and you get time to spend with your friends and family.

I was meant to do some packing this weekend but I got lazy and decided to watch endless episodes of Friends. They had the gag reel as extras on some of the dvd's which were hilarious to watch.

Tonight we went to Ty's cousins house for a bbq with his family which was really nice. Paris (Ty's niece) was adorable and hyped up on chocolate. We got her an easter basket in the shape of a duck that I found in Myer it was very cute. I ate so much chocolate tonight that I feel a bit sick and there is still some left. I might have to bring them into work and palm them off to people.

I have decided to try and sell one of my auntie di Trangs figurine on eBay she gave me an extra Cinderella. If they do well then I plan to buy some from her to sell, I think there could be a market for them.

I'm going out this week to visit some more doctors so that should be good. I enjoy the promotional side of my job. We are heading into the busy time with the renewal period around the corner.

Dad and Fancy watches don't mix...

Today we went to Nghi Ngan Quan for lunch to celebrate my dad's 56th birthday which was on March the 20th. We gave him his present which was a Seiko chonograph watch, very trendy. But it had about three buttons on the side which made different parts of the watch start. Needless to say this confused my dad who proceeded to press them and said that the watch wasn't working. After fixing the problem I gave it back to my dad who did it again, doh! But he loved the watch I think it's the first trendy one he has ever had. He asked me if his and Ty's watch was the same, I don't think so considering Ty's is a Tag Heur.

Tonight we are heading over to mum and dad's to hang out. Mel is going to model some clothes for me to sell on eBay, which she has done before for other people so she is a pro!

Only one more day of the Easter Long Weekend and then there won't be many public holidays left for the first part of the year. I am counting down the days til my niece comes down from Brisbane and when I move into our new house. I will be in my nesting phase.

Examples of "It's a Bao Comment..."

I thought since the title of my Blog is "It's a Bao Comment" that I should actually give you examples of my comments that have my friends in hysterics.

1. I did not know that why mums heated up bottled milk. I had no idea that breast milk was warm until my niece was born which was only 16 months ago.

2. We were watching Celebrity Poker, and there was a guy at the table who was wearing sunnies inside at night. So I asked my friend Matt if the guy was blind and Matt said "How would he be able to see the cards he is holding?"

3. I thought that they had repaired the ozone layer and actually went around work telling people this.

4. A lady at my work had a cup with an in built coaster on the bottom of it. Which we both thought was a great idea. So I said to her "Wouldn't it be great if you could get cups with an in built thermas, to keep the coffee warm?" And she replied " They have them they are called a thermas?" And I was like "Oh yeah".

Good Friday

Well it's been an extremely long time since I last posted. The ironic thing is when life gets busy I have more to write about but just don't have time to write it. So get ready for a very long post. Ty and I have been busy selling both our properties and we have bought a house together. Ty's house sold for less than we expected but my unit sold for more so it evened out in the end. We don't get to move in til May which is a longer than usual settlement but we wanted to be able to sell both our places and the people we purchased from needed time to find a place as well. There must be something in the air at my work place though because in the last month 3 of us have bought new places.

Now our days are spent being obsessed with finding boxes so we can start packing. The house is messy at the moment as we start sorting through our stuff. I plan to hold a garage sale because we just have way too much stuff and alot of it we don't want to keep. I want my kitchen dining and cutlery to match so any mismatched china is going to be sold at the garage sale.

Ty and I celebrated our 1 year anniversary and stayed at the Grand down at Glenelg last weekend. It was fantastic because we felt like we had a mini holiday. His mum got us two vouchers for Christmas so we still have another one to use. We had an all you can eat seafood buffet and both being seafood lovers we were in heaven. After that we met Aisha and Matt for some chocolate and coffee at Grace Birdle's on Jetty Road they make the best waffles there. Ty suprised me with an IPod Nano and he put a video clip of Beth on the swing which was so cool. I felt terrible because I didn't get his gift in time. But I am organising him a surprise when we move into the new place instead.

We are busy saving for Hong Kong so I have been really good and haven't bought anything for myself since Christmas, and for those who know me that is an amazing feat. I am excited also because it isn't long til my gorgeous niece is back from Brissie, and I get to give her lots of cuddles and kisses. It will also be Phan's 30th birthday as well so I am looking forward to that.

Work is starting to get busier so that's good and I am attending more Medical Student Society functions. I am getting used to the idea of presenting to 100's of people and my boss said I do a good job so that is reassuring. For those who dont' know Adelaide has had a heat wave with temperatures over 35 for 16 or more days which is insane. We finally have cooler weather and it feels so good.

Last night we went to see Guy Sebastian do a Motown Memphis concert and it was awesome. The guitarist wrote the song "Sitting on the dock of the bay" and had worked with Otis Redding he was so cool too. Ty loved the drummer and it inspired him to get on his drums and bash out a few songs I've missed him playing so that was nice. Guy as usual was the consumate performer and a little girl managed to get on stage and give him a little teddy bear wearing the Crows Jersey. We were right near the stage so we had great seats! One of the best concerts I've ever been to.

Today we went to Lyna and James place for a bbq and boardgames. We played Cranium and I realised that I am extremely competitive and I'm like Monica from Friends, I get so loud and argumentative it was a bit embarrassing. We had a great time though.

Well it's Good Friday. So in the spirit of Easter I would like to take a minute to think of things in my life that I am thankful for. I am thankful that Clara is so tech savy so that I am constantly updated with great photos of my favourite niece. I am thankful for Ty the most amazing boyfriend a girl could want. Someone who will never let me down and who I will love forever. And I am thankful for my family and friends without them life would not be the same.

House Hunting Oh What Joy!

This past week has been an interesting one. It was Vietnamese New Year and not much happened for me or Ty. It is generally a time of year that you spend with family. And since Phan and Clara had moved to QLD it was a quiet affair. We had lunch at mum and dads yesterday to celebrate. Mum made traditional Vietnamese food such as fried fish with nuoc mam, canh chua (sweet and sour soup), and some fried mushrooms which were so yummy! Everything was so delicious, after lunch we rang Phan and Clara to have a chat to Beth. She was so funny kept wanting to walk around and was talking alot. I think she was showing off a bit for us.

Yesterday Ty and I spent time looking at some houses. We saw two houses that we both loved. But they are further out of the city, so we are torn about what to do. We are going to look at some today which are alot closer to mum and dad and town. The problem is if we move out of the city area we can buy a really nice house, or buy one near mum and dad that needs work. We are trying to decide what we would prefer more. House hunting is such a stressful thing to do, especially if you are working to a budget and house prices in Adelaide just keep going up.

Last night I went out with Aisha, and Ty spent time at home hanging out with his friend Ben. We had dinner at Parade Thai which is one of my favourite places the food there is so yummy. After dinner we went and saw 27 dresses and it was fantastic we both loved it. A very girly girl movie but so sweet and romantic. Not one to see if you are single and lonely though, because it goes on about how marraige is the ultimate day for a girl. It made me want to go out and plan a wedding not necessarily my own. I'm hoping Aisha and Matt will get married soon so I can help them with theirs.

This message is a bit belated. But Happy Vietnamese New Year. I hope this year brings many suprises, love, happiness and prosperity for you and your families. Rembember that life is short so appreciate those close to you. I am making it my mission this year to stress less, laugh more and show the ones I love how much they mean to me. So to start it off Clara, Phan and Beth you guys are a huge part of my world. I love you all so much, and miss you heaps. But like they say absence makes the heart grow fonder. Clara you are the best sister a girl could ask for,and seeing what a great mum to Beth you are warms me. Your strength and kindness makes me want to be a better person. And Phan I was truly blessed that God gave me a brother who is so loving and supportive of everything I do. Beth you are the light that shines in my heart and everyday that I get to see your precious face is a day that I am thankful for. I love you more than life itself.

Finally Ty my soul mate. You came into my world at just the right time. You make me smile at the thought of coming home to you. You are my strength, my heart, my soul you are a part of me. I love you more than I have loved anyone and I hope I never take you for granted. I love you so much baby, happy new years!

The bags have arrived!

Work has definitely slowed down a lot this week. Our competitors have finished their renewal period so the doctors who ring for a quote have stopped too, so right now the days are really dragging at work. But I've settled into my role and did my first visit to a broker to say hi and generally be nice to them so they send more business my way. My boss said they are going to step up that part of my role alot more so I'll be going out and doing the hob nobbing, which will be good.

My bags arrived this week, but there was a bit of a drama. Phi must have been asleep when they tried to deliver them the first time so they left a consignment note. I rang them to say you can leave them at the side behind the locked fence the next day. But by 4 pm phi had been home all day and the bags till hadn't arrived. So I rang Toll and asked them why the bags hadn't been delivered but they said it was delivered at 1:40pm so I went into panick mode cos I had given them permission to just leave the bags behind the gate, and I thought oh no they've been stolen and there was over $3,000 worth of bags, but Phi hadn't heard the truck and they were sitting at the back gate. The bags are beautiful especially the Agatha Air very pretty.

Meanhwile Ty is working on a little project which if he ends up completing will be hilarious but it could take him a few months to do, but I won't say what it is I'll let it be a surprise. We are both going really well and still so happy we found each other. March will be our 1 year anniversary which is amazing it's gone so fast!

Life's pretty dull at the moment...

The last week has been pretty uneventful. Ty has been working some extra hours to make up for the all the public holidays. My work has been really busy but I'm really enjoying it, I've made it past my 3 month probation yay!

On Saturday Ty and I went house hunting and looked at some dispaly villages in Mawson Lakes and Northgate. Henley properties had some beautiful houses but they were quite expensive $250K for a house not including landscaping, and fixtures, add the land in and that's over 400K. Then we drove out to Mawson Lakes definitely don't want to live there, but Medallion Homes had a house on display I really wanted to see. Well Ty and I just fell in love the house was absolutely gorgeous. Nine foot ceilings, theatre room, huge kitchen, but the price over 400K. The lady said that this display home had been bought for 1 million. You are paying for alot of things you don't need though, which really drives up the price. So we drove away feeling very poor but it was fun to see how the other half live. We've decided to take a break from house hunting since anything we see we can't buy til august september anyway.

On a different note, I was quite sad to hear about Heath Ledger's death. Not sure why since I didn't know him, but I really liked him as an actor. Ten things I hate abouut you would have to be one of my favourite movies. RIP Heath Ledger, I hope you are in a better place now.

January 21st 2008

Well I thought I should start blogging, since this is the purpose of creating a blog, and also so Clara actually has something to read. Saturday we had our first dinner at mum and dad's house without Phan, Clara and Beth and it was a sombre mood. I missed seeing Beth make a mess of her food and having her squeal and do her usual tricks. I missed having Clara to gossip with and just chat about my week, and I even missed Phan giving me a hard time. It was very quiet. The highlight of the night was doing a phone hook up with them and getting to see Beth on the web camera. She was soooo cute and even obliged us by doing all her little tricks, we even got kisses.

On Sunday Ty and I spent the day looking at some houses. I'd forgotten how deceiving web photos can be, some houses look great on the net but not so flash in person. One house we didn't even go in just did a drive by. House prices are definitely more expensive than when I was last looking. Ty and I are very tempted to build or buy an ex display home. We won't be in the market til the end of the year so we will make some concrete plans then.