Long distance romance...

We all have heard of other's attempts in making a long distance romance last...

Either a friend or a friend of a friend...a workmate...a workmate's friend...your cousin or some relative...but how many have you heard ended up having really successful relationships, where one moved to be with the other and they lived happily ever after?

The long distance relationships I have ever heard of usually ended up with both people still at opposite ends of the world.

This is why I was extremely hesitant in starting something with him while I was in NY. In my head, long distance relationships don't last. And it was fortunate for the both of us, I was open to the idea of remaining friends, so we kept in contact since day dot until now...and now we are in a long distant relationship.

It was good that I went to Mauritius straight after, because it was there that I witnessed a long distant relationship that worked and ended up with a happy outcome.

It seems all too crazy. We have both told our families about each other and of his intentions of moving to Sydney to be with me. His family is all supportive of his decision and mine, are simply happy because I am happy.

Its been long overdue for the both of us...

He remained single for the past 3 years by choice...for a similar amount of time, I gave up on ever finding a partner and accepted the fact that it was just not meant to be. So, I was happy just being single and carefree.

Its extremely hard, I don't believe I have ever worked this hard at a relationship before. But it is all worth it. I'm completely gushy...and I'm talking about things that I was so closed off to, previously. Everyone I tell gets excited, you would think that they just got engaged or they were pregnant...with the reactions they were giving me at the news!!! *LoL*

I'm really fortunate...for him coming into my life...for the family & friends that I have, who are completely supportive. It makes a huge difference.

I covet vintage...

I am an old soul...If I believed in reincarnation...I would believe that I was once born in the 18th Century and then again in the late 19th and then some time in the 1940's...i think.

I can label those times in the past, because the jewellery that I covet are from those times. The pair of earrings I saw in a store window while I was in Vance, South of France, was from the 18th Century.

The jewel encrusted combs and necklaces, earrings, bangles, bracelets, rings...all the ones in the museums I roamed in while I was in NY...

And now all the rings, brooches, and necklaces I have acquired from the last 2 weekends from my supplier...all from the 1960's...It has made me think. If I was born in the 1940's then I'd be in my 20's by the time it was the 1960's and this would be the type of stuff that I would own!!!

I love the jewels set in them...the details...its all costume, but you would never be able to find such pieces today.

It takes my breath away...the beauty...the delicate features...the fact that it has lasted this long...the fact that it is one of a kind.

A lot of the pieces, my supplier obtains from auctions in the US...her family picks them up and sends them over here. I was overjoyed this Saturday, that through the doom and gloom I found gorgeous pieces. It made my weekend.

I even went to the extent to buy some boxes to contain them. I ended up buying those boxes you store loose beads in...the clear ones...it really shows off the jewellery and keeps them separate, so that the gold and silver don't mix and lose their colour off each other.

I have a feeling that this obsession will continue. I rarely wear brooches, but I adore the look of brooches...Its like an addiction...I'm addicted to buying vintage pieces...I get such a buzz...I'm almost skipping back to the car each time I have completed a purchase and decide to head home. My head is high above the clouds...I'm probably smiling from ear to ear...hehehe...

I sooo covet vintage jewellery with my old soul...

Stressed...

I get knots in my traps when I stress out...

My left side was in pain a week ago...and i got over it and i thought everything was fine again...and I knew it was because I was doing weights the other day and that was the cause of my pain.

And then this week, the right side started hurting...I know it wasn't the resistance training, because I was avoiding it to ensure that I wouldn't hurt the left side again...so, it left me to wonder what was the problem?

It started to feel better, so much that I was thinking of heading back into the gym tonight, but I woke up today and it feels all knotted up again. It might be the way I sleep, but I have slept on my side for all my life, I don't understand why it would hurt me now.

I'm guessing that its the stress from work and I'm probably actually sleeping with my neck tensed up. How weird is that?

I've been moving along with my projects at my own beat. I was pretty lucky to have projects that were being resourced by the same people over and over again and it was always a small team. But I recently got thrown into the deep end. My manager, I'm assuming is trying to push me further so that he can dump the bigger projects on me...

Which is fair enough...it has been 6 months, perhaps he thinks I should be meeting other people in the company, where as I have only been dealing with people in my area for the while.

I'm being forced to take more charge and making calls with limited information.

Since its a decommission of a platform, a lot of people think its a ripping out and binning hardware sort of activity. But unfortunately, its never that simple. Yes, new platform is in and working A-Ok, and the old platform has no traffic...but the systems and applications that might "expect" or "anticipate" traffic from the old platform...thats where the problems are...things need to be shut off in a particular sequence, as the expected communication between applications may cause problems in a production environment...even if its from an old platform with no traffic.

Why is it soo hard for some people who are in fact technically minded to understand that there are potential risks?!?!?! Its my job to manage and mitigate the risks...it is their job to identify the "technical" risks because they are the technical people!!!

Yes...I am stressed...

I bought a ring...just not the one I was covetting...

I decided to drag my Mum shopping with me last night to the local jeweller.

I couldn't find it in store...and remembered the girl warning me that during sales, there is usually only one of each item at the store. So, if it gets sold that is it. My heart sank, thinking I couldn't even show my Mum the ring to get an opinion.

But then I tried the window display and found it...but there happened to be another ring in the display beside it. I asked the sales assistant to show me both.

The original ring I wanted was too loose. The other "new" one fit perfectly. Mum and I fell for this "new" one...and I handed the money over.

As it was new stock, it wasn't 50% off. I got a 20% discount instead and the manager round off the price to the nearest hundred.

Its pretty...

Is it wrong to buy yourself a diamond ring?

I tried on this ring that I think is cute and pretty at a jeweller yesterday. I wasn't actually looking for anything, as I was helping a workmate pick out something for his girlfriend's 21st birthday. But as we waited for the store assistant to wrap up his purchase, I noticed this ring.

I asked to try it. It fit on my finger perfectly.

The store is currently having a 50% off on everything in store. So, as you can imagine, I was tempted.

My conscience said, give it back and think about it. So, I managed to return it and left the store.

I kept thinking about it all night. Weighing it up.

Its not a huge diamond, ie engagement ring standards. Its just a pretty decorative dress ring, made up of tiny diamonds totalling 0.25 carats.

The thing is, I don't know if it is worth it. Even with the 50% off. As it is from a typical chain jewellery store. Its set in 9K white gold...but I'm used to 18K white gold...

Can I afford the ring? Yes, I can pay it in total in cash if I wanted to. As with the sale, its an alright price. I actually paid more for a ring without diamonds while I was in Florence last year...but my justification is that it was a holiday purchase...I was meant to be ripped off!

It fits my middle finger perfectly.

The colour of the diamonds are about J or K...but due to the size of them, you wouldn't notice, especially with a naked eye.

I have been wanting to buy myself a ring for a while now. The rings I have at home, just don't feel right on, anymore. And since I can afford to purchase something for myself now...I was thinking "Why not?"

Before NY, I told my Mum that I wanted to buy a diamond dress ring. Sort of similar to Samantha's mentality (SATC Movie- when she went to the auction to buy the flower diamond ring). I work hard for my money...I can now afford to buy myself significant jewellery...so, why not?

Why not? I guess, with the current financial situation, would it be considered that I am flaunting my money around? Isn't there a smarter way to invest my money, to guarantee some sort of future? Its not like I'm buying a substantial sized loose rock as an investment though...

I don't know.

I like it...it fits...I just don't know if I should.

The word "should" has stopped me twice from saying yes and handing over the money. It stopped me yesterday and it stopped me today.

=(

Oktoberfest...

My Oktoberfest celebrations started on Wednesday October 1st with my Europe trip friends from South Australia and Sydney. We met at the Lowenbrau and had dinner with bier.

Friday night, was the continuation of the Oktoberfest back at the Lowenbrau. This time with my ex-workmates. And this was the start of a big weekend...

First we were being served by the delightful Boris...who made sure we had the "pretty" waitresses serving us our drinks and meals, meanwhile Boris had his eye on Andrew...

*LoL*

The dinner was great...I had the special veal ribs...nice and tender....and mash is always good. Shame there was only two ribs...everybody else was happy with their pork bellies. Afterward, we indulged in dessert and some cognac...which I didn't have because I knew it would put me over. Instead, I had the conventional sweet stuff.

I went home and slept all the way through until about 11am on Saturday. Bummed around the house for a few hours, watched some tv, was chatting online with my NY-er and then continued the Oktoberfesting at the Fairfield Showground.

When we got to the Showground, all three of us were blown away by the size of the festivities and the crowd. It was really really fun. I have never been to the Showground for the Oktoberfest before, and I'm glad we finally made it.

We got inside and went in search of some food and settled on a bratwurst/roll/potatoes and sauerkraut. Then my friend lined up for the bier - Austrian first...German later...and some apple schnapps for later with my mini pancakes. I like the fact that we had souvenir glasses to take home...one for the bier and one for the shot.

After we watched the barrel being cracked open for the opening of the event, we continued talking, drinking, talking, eating, drinking and later decided that we needed to do something outside of our comfort zone. So, with the rides outside...we decided we were going to go on one.

We picked the Ranger...similar to the pirate ship, although smaller in scale, but nonetheless still as scary. So, you can imagine 3 tipsy people hopping into a ride and thinking to themselves - "WTF, why did I say yes to this?"

But after screaming on the ride non-stop...and were not just shouting there were a lot of "I hate you, C...!" and I would come back with "I love you, V...!" and a lot of "woohoo..." coming from me! *LoL*

The only time it was uncomfortable for me, was when the ride was doing 360 degrees backwards and stood still while we were completely upside down for about 5 seconds. That was when all my blood rushed to my head...and it wasn't thrilling at that particular moment...but other than that...it was a great experience that I had totally forgotten about.

I used to love going on rides...and doing exhilarating activities...but for a while there, i became cautious and safe...and so, i have forgotten that feeling of excitement...that rush.

I'm glad, relieved, proud of myself in traveling on my own this year...venturing outside of MY comfort zone and doing things that make me feel alive.

I felt fear, paranoia, frustration, the sun, the ocean, relaxed, fun, tipsy, sheer joy, sand, coral, fun, excitement, out of place, welcomed, a part of an extended family, loved, like a wall flower, special, beautiful, cold, wet, warm, fuzzy, respected, like a jet setter, rich, poor, glamorous, casual, dowdy, smokin' hot, cultured, happy...happy...happy...

I will not change anything about this year...not the bad and of course, not the good.

But last night...last night was the defining moment. It was when i verbally acknowledged that I'm at the right place in time of my life.

27.5 is the number. It is the age I feel that everything has come together. Things in my life are still evolving...but I feel like i'm home, I fit in my skin, no longer awkward...and even if I do feel like it from time to time...I know how to deal with that awkward feeling at 27.5.

Just like in the movie Il Mare, where the guy tries out the girls weekend...by drinking a beer, running like a lunatic and going on the scariest amusement park ride that was outside his comfort zone. Realisation comes at moments like those...and I have had mine.

Its funny that all this comes out after I have had a few to drink. Quite uncharacteristic of me...but I like it.

I will be detoxing now...but there is no regret over here...

If you haven't been to the Oktoberfest at the Showground before, I highly recommend it...just don't go on your own. Its a festival...and festivals are best with friends!

Hello Kayla!

My brother and sis in law are proud parents to baby #3 - Kayla.

She was born into the world yesterday morning...making sure the world heard her, she was crying loudly. No need for spanking. She did it on her own accord.

I saw her in the early evening...a full head of hair...really hungry...really cute.

I'm just grateful that she is healthy, and both mother and child are doing well.

Does this make me clucky? No.

I now have 2 nieces that look like me...they could easily pass off as mine. I told Mum as I drove her to see her friends (after visiting Kayla in the hospital)...that I don't need to have kids...I now have 2 girls that look like me!

Is it enough...? Sure is for me! At least for now...

I was thinking, before I went to NY and Mauritius...that when I got back, I have to be proactive and write up a will and get my finances in order. Its now time to do all these things. But writing up a will is...I don't know...I know I have to do it, but I don't really want to. I don't fear death...its going to happen...maybe I'm just lazy??? I don't know why I keep putting off writing my will.

But anyway...about my gorgeous baby niece...its funny to see how each girl reacts to her new sister. When Chloe was born...being the first she obviously got use to the attention. So, when Aimee came into the world, Chloe was not surprisingly miffed that she was no longer in the spotlight. Being older now, when Chloe visited Kayla she warmed up to her little sister right away. Aimee on the other hand...I think she realised that she is no longer the baby of the family...so, she didn't quite want to hug Kayla...hehehe...kiddies and their hierarchy!

Overall, from watching her sister's example, Aimee warmed up to Kayla after a while.

Welcome to the world Kayla...*mwah*

My last week in NY...

My last week in NY was the best week in NY! I found a guy who proposed to me, a man who adores me and is 99% sure he wants to move to Sydney for me...and many, many men who think I'm beautiful and gorgeous...and I hadn't even spoken to them yet...so its not because of the accent.

I also got to shop in SoHo and along 5th Avenue. I barely scratched the surface of the shopping in NY...but I loved what I was able to shop in!!! It feels good to be able to spend on things like jewellery and lingerie, and finding the clutch of my dreams a year later. I didn't buy any shoes as I had planned...even after visiting SAKS and their shoe floor (Level 8) which has its own Zip Code - 10022.

But I did buy Chanel Beige...a Chanel Signature fragrance which is only sold in SAKS 5th Avenue...those girls who helped me turned my sad day around. It smells divine on me and I couldn't stop sniffing my arm! *LoL*

The weather was fabulous until my last day. But what more could I really ask for. The hotel I booked was nice and no bed bugs in sight. They were accommodating and the concierge helped me quite a lot. I didn't have to worry about a lot and after a day roaming around, I found my bearings.

Americans aren't awful people, I actually really like them...there are a couple who have attitudes, but its NY!

I met a gorgeous lady in Takashimaya and I bought some make up from her...she made me beautiful for my evening out on Friday.

Sooo much to write...so little time. I'm heading for Mauritius and I am currently sitting at HKIA waiting for my flight.

Its really weird...I've flown so much on this trip that I now feel like a jet setter. I know exactly where to go and what to do, especially at HKIA.

Oh, I dread going home in a weeks time. I will be extremely depressed!
=(

But lets not dwell on the negatives...1 more week...and it is in Mauritius...some much deserved R&R.

I "heart" NY so much...

My experience of NY has been great so far...the family stuff...a bit crazy...but NY itself...I am thoroughly enjoying. I'm also enjoying the fact that I am a hottie over here and everyone loves my accent and I'm considered petite. I get stopped by random guys on the street who tell me I'm beautiful and I get proposed to by a guy named Chase at the Quiksilver store in Times Square...and then I get taken out by a friend of my Aunt, who is totally crushing on me and has told me that I'm basically his dream girl! *LoL*

At the wedding there were a number of guys who were flirting with me left, right and centre. I think I got them weak in the knees by simply speaking to them...initially, I wasn't flirty...but then I got clued in and started milking it for what it was worth!!! Hey...I'm only here for 1.5 weeks, why wouldn't I make the most of this opportunity to have fun??? They all know when I am leaving on Saturday...I made it pretty clear...but at least now, I have some people who have offered to keep me company when my Aunt goes on her honeymoon.

I went a bit crazy yesterday when I was in SoHo and went to the market with B. I love every piece of jewellery I bought and will always treasure them. Thanks B for lunch, I hope you adore the pieces you got too! And thanks to Guenevere Rodriguez for being such a talented jewellery designer and maker. She is such a cutie and you would never guess her age! She looks half her age and is such an uplifting beautiful soul!!!

I was just telling B that I wanted to buy rings a moment before we reached the markets she was showing me to. I just had this craving for some rings and was considering buying myself a diamond. But these unique, delicate, divine pieces will tie me over for some time...I might be calling her for a private sitting to buy some more. *LoL* We were talking and I told her that I was from Sydney and will be leaving this Saturday...so, she offered to set up and private session for B and I.

I found the clutch, the one with a broken clasp I oh so wanted in Zara Spain last year...over here at Zara Broadway. Can you believe that??? A year down the track, I find the clutch again...and this time, the clasp isn't broken! Albeit, it is not in the colour I wanted...but the patent mock croc look is cute too! It was meant to be...so, even though its more expensive than when I was in Barcelona...I couldn't help myself!

Places I have visited so far: Chinatown in Downtown Manhattan, Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing, Times Square and the M&M Concept store...SoHo for my Aunt's office and shopping - picked up some things from A|X, Zara, Victoria's Secret and Sephora...Katz Deli for their famous pastrami sandwich - I made the guy serving us blush! We also went to Cafe Wha...a place the locals are familiar with and apparently had great buffalo wings (which I liked...but I don't know about the blue vein cheese sauce). They have stand up comedy and a live band for entertainment and a range of cocktails and drinks with all the yummy food to order. When the music and singing starts, people get up and dance in the aisle...its a cool, funky underground place to visit on a Friday night for live entertainment. Apparently, Greenwich is the place to be for this type of thing.

I also went to a place that only locals know about. A friend of my Aunt's who came to the wedding got totally smitten by me and wanted to show me a part of NY that I probably wouldn't have been able to get to by myself. Its the NY Water Taxi Beach...which sits some where near Queens and its basically an area opposite the United Nations building, across the water...I think it is the Hudson River...don't quote me on that as I still don't quite have my bearings on correctly in terms of direction...we were there after the sun had set and it was like a club, but out in the open...there was a tent where the dj was playing music and there was all this sand (I think the area is a man made beach, although you would not go into the water)...a bar to the side and a food stall on the other...it was like a festival...and across the way...you had the NY Manhattan City all lit up on parade.

It was really pretty and quite relaxing for me...I'm so glad that I made a new friend who was free to show me this last night. He also happens to like Broadway musicals...haha...so, I have a companion to go watch something too!

Okay...its currently 11:30am on 2/9 in NY...my Aunt has invited the in-laws for a family brunch/lunch thing...I need to get ready and set up the table...

I'm soo not missing Sydney...and although I am loving NY, I can't wait for the change of pace in Mauritius for the R&R.

Not a good start to the trip...

I figured since it would be a late check in...I'd do it online 48 hrs before my flight.

I get to the airport at Syd Int'l and I go to the First Class counter, because I was told to and the customer service person holds me up for 1 thing...my connecting flight from HK to NY...apparently even though the stupid system only asked for street name and suburb...the US want more information now. Its pathetic! Why only ask me limited information and allow an online check-in and then cause me complications while I check-in my 1 bag luggage??? Grrr...

I get to HK and check myself into the lounge and find that my CC is over its limit! Like WTF? It seems the credit which was due to my account will take 7-10 working days...for a cancellation of a hotel which I found out had a recent break of bed bugs...and the new booking for the 2nd hotel was processed in a day!!!

So, basically, this is a F#$%ing expensive holiday...I had to make two lengthy calls on my mobile to find all this out...it will also take a couple of days for the money I transferred to that CC to be processed!!! *sigh*

I just can't relax with all this sh!t happening...I worked until 5:30pm last night...leaving me with 2 hours to shower and finish packing before my brother would pick me up and take me to the airport.

Still not packed...

There isn't much time until I go to NY & Mauritius.

I'm getting more worried than excited. All these projects I have that decided to take flight this week and the scheduling of activities with multiple parties is driving me nuts.

For one project, my tech lead has left the company. So, I feel a bit stranded and lost. My technician doing the implementation is leaving the company next week...and there is no replacement...its cutting too close to the launch date and I don't want to be the one to let the customer know that their expectation may not be met. Even though they know he is leaving, because they fund his contract and they know its ending next week. I'm the one who has to remind them that they didn't want to keep him on and therefore, their project is in jeopardy because one team held us up and now he is leaving. *ugh*

I don't need this right now.

My other projects, I have managed to talk to the sponsors and got them to agree to implement the changes when I get back. But the changes happen the week I get back. So, i'm trying to line everything up now and just execute it upon my return...with the jetlag.

I come back on a Tuesday...return to work on Wednesday. Crazy, I know...but I'm a contractor now...I don't get paid while I'm away and that would hurt the pockets...especially with the mortgage.

I cancelled on my dinner this Saturday night. My friend is sick...so sick, they were in bed all day yesterday. I told the friend that if they were in bed all day Thursday...they really wouldn't be "better" by Saturday night. I'm not keen on getting sick before my trip, I started getting a sore throat on Monday and started taking Ease-a-Cold lozenges and it has subsided.

I can't seem to find any of my bikini's...I wonder where they all went???

Because I haven't started packing, I don't know what I have or what I am missing...I'm getting frustrated at home...I'm all tense...and to add to things, my muscles in the legs are sooo tight, I can't run like I use to. And I think I'm starting to get a shin splint on the right. Dammit!

Today is full on...next week will be hand over documents...*sigh*...

I haven't started packing...

I'm usually half packed a week before my overseas trip...at least my hand carry is done with some clothes and my necessities...

This time around...well, my bridesmaid dress isn't completed yet...I don't know which suitcase I'll be bringing...and I'm not sure which hand carry to bring.

The only thing I know for sure is that I will be bringing a number of dresses...the handbag I bought at Paddington...the leather sandals I bought from Witchery...my toothbrush...toothpaste...moisturiser, sunscreen, make up, accessories for the wedding and my silver shoes for the wedding.

I still need to find an appropriate bag to carry my stuff on the wedding day...I don't know who the bestman is, so...its not like I'm going to ask him to hold my lippy for me! *LoL*

I also still need to find a nice bikini for Mauritius. There is one I really like from Victoria's Secret...but the delivery takes too long for Sydney, and I could send it to my Aunt's place, but I don't like buying clothing online...what if it doesn't fit? I already have a hard time as it is trying to find clothing that fits, while shopping in person!!!

I stopped eating carbs in the evening and have been exercising every day this week...I'm taking a break tonight, but will be at the gym this weekend on both days. Its amazing what no carbs after lunch can do with the flab on your stomach. I swear that an inch has come off my waistline because I stopped eating carbs after lunch. When I sit, I don't get those crazy rolls...I still have a bit of the roll effect, but I'm happier with what it is now.

I just need to remember to sit upright, and I'm good.

I still have to book something for the last couple of nights for NY...no, I haven't done it yet. I might leave it until I am in NY and see how I go with staying at my Aunt's.

I haven't picked up all my travel documents yet...I'm going to try and collect them today...

I also have to write up 6 handover documents, so that the next person who picks up my projects in my absence, has an idea of what needs to be done next.

*sigh*

So much to do...so little time...

the one thing you never want to lose...

In general, I don't like losing anything. It drives me up the wall to find one of my possessions is missing. I think it comes from the idea I have about myself, that I know where everything I own belongs. But my room is tiny and its crazily over crowded with my stuff, so not all handbags fit into the 3 boxes I have for handbag storage. I have soo many shoes, that not all shoes fit into the 3 designated areas: in trundle boxes underneath my bed, the tallboy by my door and outside my door.

When posed with the question, what is the one thing you never want to lose (Excluding your vision, health, family, etc. Has to be a possession...)???

I came up with nothing.

There isn't that one thing that has sooo much sentimental value to me that I would feel like killing myself if I ever lost it.

Nothing.

I don't have any one thing that my parents have given me that mean so much. I guess, its a hard call for me. I was never really close to my grandparents...and nothing sentimental was really passed on to me. I guess you could interpret that and say it speaks volumes...or not.

I don't own superdooper, uber cool gadgets. So, there is no fear of losing that.

My photos...well, the photos that matter today are all digital...I can't lose those in a house fire, as most are online...thankfully.

If someone robbed my house and stole my watches, i'd be extremely miffed, because they were expensive gifts, but I wouldn't be mourning the loss as though it was a dying cousin.

Does this make me just a heartless b*tch? Or does it mean that I am less materialistic/consumeristic than I thought I was.

I feel extrememly saddened and get terribly emotional when people tell me stories about losing love, faith, or hope. I don't feel much when they tell me the lose a physical thing. Yeah, I feel a little sad that a friend lost their favourite thing, and I'd feel angry if someone stole something from a friend...but not for their loss really - more for the fact that the friend got violated.

Hmm...I wonder if I ever have that one thing...?

Paddington Markets...

I have been struggling to find the right leather handbag for about 3 months...so, I finally decided that I should go to Paddington Markets and maybe, just maybe I'd find "The One".

I was very specific as to what kind of leather bag I wanted. It had to be brown, it had to have a flap to cover the top of the bag, I really preferred it to have a zipper as well as the flap, but I would make do if the flap had a secure clasp, it had to be vintage in design, and it wouldn't go astray if the leather was uber soft to touch, I wanted it to be under $100, and I wanted it to be unique.

Where could I find something like that?

It had to be Paddington. It took me about 30 minutes of walking around the main area and the one aisle I considered taking a miss, happened to be the aisle I found Charlie Middleton! The bag I found was the last in its colour, the last in the type of leather it was made of (the leather is soft to touch, like rose petals and comes from Italy), and it was just within my budget ($99).

Ben, the sales guy, just knew how to sell the bag to me. He told me to look inside...and its got the cutest lining!!!

I was quite taken by the bag, and thrown by the price. I'm not use to buying really expensive bags...yes, I have paid perhaps $60-80 for a small leather clutch...but in general I don't spend that much on handbags. And as a girlfriend points out, I'd spend much more on leather shoes and they go on my feet!

Then I walked and spotted some illustrations that I adored. So, after perusing the extensive collection of illustrations by Hoang Nguyen, I walked away with 5. Three is a series of baby elephant pictures inspiring creativity, learning, and gaining strength. I bought it for my baby niece who should be born while I am in NY or Mauritius...so, in my absence, when she is taken home and put into her nursery, she can stare at the illustrations I have bought her.

Thinking I should stop, since I spent so much money in a matter of about 45 minutes...I decided to walk back to the bus stop...but I ended up detouring and stopped at Luisa Clare's boutique. Luisa Clare makes these really cute clutches and really good leather satchel bags, and accessories. The sales guy I was speaking to told me that she was expanding into fashion, ready in time for Summer, which is why she was currently on sale. She was trying to sell her stock in the store, so she can close and renovate for a week.

While I was in the store, I found a really gorgeous beaded clutch. Also brown leather, but not as soft as my handbag. I was smitten. It was reduced from $129 to $49. How could I say no? So, I ended up with 2 bags and 5 illustrations in about 60 minutes of shopping in Paddington.

After that purchase I thought I should fast track it home and I had an appointment with my gym that I couldn't miss in the afternoon.

My observation with Paddington Markets is that over the years, the price has gone up, but that is pretty much everything on the market these days. There are things that have changed and yet there are some things that are still the pretty much the same as it was 8 years ago, and the fact that I could find something so specific without THAT much stress in less than half an hour at the markets - really says a lot. I wish the fudge store was still around and the ice cream sandwich guy was there too, but oh well...Paddington Markets will always have a special place in my heart.

The holiday...

An ex-manager is going to Dubai to work. He had his farewell last night at the Uber Bar. It is a great opportunity for him and his wife, but that doesn't stop it from being a sad goodbye.

The first manager (FM) I had worked for at my old work place turned up at the farewell too. We started chatting and I told her about my NY/Mauritius trip. We were talking about the shopping and she was ooh-ing and ahh-ing and I jokingly said she should go.

She took it as an invitation and was making serious consideration. The friend who is getting married in Mauritius was tipsy by this time of night and overheard our conversation and insisted that FM attend her wedding.

So, here we are in the middle of the bar with retro music blaring in the background and FM seriously umm-ing & ahh-ing over the amount of leave and what a great holiday this will be for her.

I don't have a particular problem with FM. She was a good manager and treated me well. I didn't have to suffer any PMS type of outburst...so, it was all good back then.

But FM is the type of person who I can only take in small doses. I can't really imagine spending a week with her, let alone 2 weeks. And I'm not sure that I want her to get to know the real me. The real me isn't all that flash! *LoL*

I told my mum about it and she was just relieved that I won't be on my own in NY or Mauritius. And true...its a good point. I will have someone's company and accommodation will be half the price!

Let's see how it pans out. If FM manages to get everything organised in 4 weeks, well, then I guess it was meant to be...

L.O.V.E.

One of the best project managers I have ever had the chance to work with (and I wish he was still here to have the opportunity to be mentored by him), is the subject of my post today.

I didn't know the particulars of his engagement to his fiance...or the motivation to go work abroad in some place exotic (Gibraltar???), etc.

I simply thought he was motivated by the same reasons as anyone else who wants to work abroad. The convenience of being in a central location to explore neighbouring countries, being immersed in a new culture, and tax-free Euros or Pounds.

But there was more to the story.

I only found out a few months after he had left, some pertinent details and I'm slowly seeing a panoramic view, versus the snapshot.

O&F, I believe are the perfect example of true love.

A number of months before they got engaged, they had moved in together...a month or two after F fell ill, quite severely. O was away from work or working from home for a few weeks while F was in hospital all that time.

I didn't know until after they left Sydney, that she was actually diagnosed with a serious onset of a debilitating illness. She didn't know of anything that was wrong with her health prior, and since that day she was diagnosed, she also found out that there was no real cure.

So, the engagement, the travelling, the wedding abroad, the great escape plan O organised...I believe it is to give F (as much for O himself) beautiful memories.

I remember all the planning he put into it. I remember him coming into work early one morning and telling me that F bought her wedding dress and yet they hadn't picked a real date yet, but he was soo happy, she was soo happy.

I recently looked at some photos of O&F at a friend's wedding on O's site. F looks really frail...I mean, she has always been a tall, slim girl...but her large eyes were even larger because the rest of her face has sunk back from the loss of weight. And yet a comment on her photo from O was "F looking as beautiful as always..."

When I first met O, I thought he was an arrogant, stuck up, heartless guy. I didn't like him to be honest. And then over time, after a very long time...we started to work more closely and I got to know him better.

I see now, that O is a top bloke. I see how much he loves F and wish that everyone could love and be loved that way.

Their wedding day will be on December 27, 2008.

They have been travelling through Europe and he deliberately planned a month in Italy with F, to visit her family there. They spent another 2 months going around Europe and will be going back to London to organise the wedding.

What amazes me is the amount of energy and good spirit he is maintaining. My energy would wane and I would feel really sad and probably be depressed...

O, if you ever read this...you are one truly incredible man. I wish you both all the best...

Intelligent marriage advice...

I have been reading the blog "Metrodad" for a while now.

I like the fact that the writer is straight up about things, insightful, smart, and really funny. As his bi-line reads "poppycock from a cocky pop"...

Today, I came across his most recent post about his 7th Wedding Anniversary and he listed his advice for those getting married.

"One, always remember that marriage is about the journey, not the destination.

Two, always remember that a great marriage is like a duck. Everything may look smooth on the surface but underneath, you've got to paddle like hell.

Three, keep in mind that the key to a healthy long-term relationship is never go shopping for shoes with your wife.

[Also, if you can afford separate bathrooms (usually both for her,) go for it.]"

I'm posting this up here because I think his advice is spot on...even #3. I think it is spot on not just for marriage, but for any long term relationship...especially #2.

I think from time to time, we all forget the fundamentals about relationships and when people offer advice that hits the mark like this, they should be noted and remembered.

So, in future...if I get married and my partner and I can afford it...I'm going to suggest separate bathrooms!
;)

Age and fertility also an issue for men...

I saw this on the news last night, but only caught the headline as I was leaving the house for my spin class.

So, when I came across the headline again on SMH today, I thought I should give the article a read.

Its really interesting that doctors have now found clinical evidence that its the "DNA damaged sperm" of men over 35 y/o that causes failed pregnancies and increases the chance of a miscarriage.

"She said sperm with DNA damage, common in older men, was still able to enter the egg during intrauterine insemination, which could result in failure to conceive or miscarriage.

But in the case of in vitro fertilisation, the outer membrane of the egg stopped sperm with DNA damage penetrating."

The 'she' is Dr Stephanie Belloc, the study's author.

So, basically what it comes down to, is that if a man and woman are both older than 35 y/o, then it would be really, really hard to conceive a child. Didn't we already know that? I guess, what this shows is that there is proof of why a persons age is an important factor when trying to conceive.

DNA damage...who would have thought that your DNA could be damaged by the age of 35? I didn't even know DNA could be damaged. I mean, so much so that you body (the female egg) knows to reject a "DNA damaged sperm".

Which is basically saying "Sorry, your sperm is just not good enough!"

Ha! Nature sure knows what it is doing...and we're only just finding out now.

Freedom to think, speak, believe...

World Youth Day...5 solid days between the 15-20 July, 2008.

Don't you think it is getting beyond ridiculous that NSW is considering (if not already passed a law) to prevent people from wearing a t-shirt with a slogan that is "anti-Catholic"...or has a message that goes against what Catholic's believe in, and thereby finding it offensive?

In the SMH today:

Police and volunteers from the State Emergency Service and Rural Fire Service will be able to direct people to cease engaging in conduct that "causes annoyance or inconvenience to participants in a World Youth Day event".
People who fail to comply will be subject to a $5500 fine.

Be wary, those in and around the city during this period...you don't want to forget about this event and be seen with a t-shirt with a slogan on it that could be deemed offensive, in front of a World Youth Day participant. You might find yourself being body searched by the police and handed a fine for $5,500. Later on, well after the event, you will find yourself in court wondering what it was that you had really done wrong to begin with to find yourself in such a situation. Because, afterall "causes annoyance and inconvenience" is a broad statement!

Now, what about the offense the World Youth Day is to all those who are not participating? The offense to all the people who do not believe in Catholism. Its not really about the religion, I'm actually more concerned about the principle. The idea that I need to be careful about NOT offending someone else with something that I might believe in or feel strongly about - it's just crazy!

Don't we live in a society where we live by the freedom to think, speak, and believe what we want without having to worry about getting fined for it?

FYI - The law applies to more than 40 city locations, including museums, galleries and cinemas, as well as Darling Harbour, the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Randwick Racecourse and parklands.

Check the news or smh.com.au for further details.

Cold wintery night...

What do you do on a really cold wintery Saturday night? Do you brave the cold and wear a skimpy outfit and heels, waiting in line to get into the supposed "hot" city night spot???

Or are you like me, and prefer to rug up on the couch with a really warm throw and a DVD in the player with some chips or chocolate and a hot drink?

Then there is another alternative (one of many depending on your mood)...

Get all rugged up with a warm coat and scarf (beanie too, if you don't mind the hat hair later) and brave the cold between your house and the car...then brave the cold between the car and one of your favourite cafes...where you can meet your friends to play some games while you wait for that mega bowl of tender chicken pieces (the way real nuggets should be) and wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce...and of course...your choice of coffee, hot choc, or my favourite hot apple cider with whipped cream!

Mars Hill is just the place...and E has never played Jenga and it has been forever since he played UNO. It seems that both games can induce great stress...for E anyway! *LoL* I believe we were there for 2 hours...but I had the best night in a long time and it was worth braving the cold for such an event. It wasn't planned...it was on the spur of the moment decision...it turned out to be a very good night.

Mars Hill is on Church Street in Parramatta, on the far end near the Riverside Theatre. Its a small quirky cafe that has an extensive range of coffees and hot drinks, as well as cold drinks...there are also a number of nibblies and snacks and cakes. I think they have some more substantial things on the menu, but I haven't taken a proper look, as I'm often there after lunch or dinner. There is a tallboy down the hallway that houses the games...trivial pursuit, monopoly, jenga, UNO, battleship, mastermind, connect four and a number of other games...

There is a lounge area at the front, a couple of tables and chairs behind the front lounge...there is also an upstairs with more lounges and table and chairs, a private room with the U-shaped bench, but the upstairs is used for live performances on Saturday night which there is a $10 cover charge to enter and its not quite game-friendly.

Its a bitter sweet place for me to visit. I was introduced to Mars Hill by my ex-bestie...shame...and it's also a place I visited with my ex-bf quite often, during our courtship days...

I'm glad that I am able to replace any sad, bitter feelings with warmth and laughter...definitely go back to play UNO and jenga and any other game we can get our hands on in the future. And I definitely recommend the hot apple cider (remember to stir the whipped cream and let it dissolve into the drink...yum!)