To those who have made tough decisions,

Things happen for a reason. I often tell myself this. I didn't really understand this concept until this year. I feel like I have been put to the test this year and also last year. I had to make decisions that didn't necessarily give me a sense of security and predictability. I found though that the decisions I made opened me up to meeting new people, knowing that I am capable of handling my money and understanding that I can be challenged in a stressful situation.

I may not know why things happen at that time but I think they happen to strengthen your soul a bit. I like this feeling.

Sometimes, I think, that these decisions make you see that there's so much more to the world than you thought.

Make bold decisions,
My-Linh

P.S. I am not doing too well on my Birthday goals!!!

Dear Painters,

I just finished having my first painting class with a friend! I loved it. Awhile back he was interested in taking a painting class and I told him that I could teach him. We talked and talked for months and finally we started today. I couldn't believe how fun it was for me and I hope he had just as much fun. Maybe, I am meant to teach art to adults.

I have been a bit nervous about this little one-on-one class because I have never done something like this before. But all of the nervousness went away as soon as I started helping my friend. Sometimes I forget how easily painting is for me. I have been doing it for so long that it's second nature. I also forget that knowing the ins and outs about color, brushes, and materials is a skill to be respected. I assume that in this world of digital art, a painting almost seems like a past time. But my friends seem to want my paintings.

I wonder though why I am not hesitant in giving my paintings or art away. I will definitely keep my favorites. Bottom line, I think that art should be affordable to everyone even to those that are unemployed.

Try something new and maybe include your skills. Being creative in how you make money pays off.

Mixing hues,
My-Linh

To those who can't get enough of their parents,

My dad came to visit a couple of weeks ago and it was such a pleasure having him here!!! He notices the beauty that our eyes don't and he tries to take in every moment as though it might be his last. I loved watching my dad bike across Oakland during the Marathon in which my sister ran. I can't believe that she did it!!! What an accomplishment. My dad being the youthful character that he is, warmed up running on the sidewalk to prepare for my sister's arrival. He ran with her for about twenty feet but the joy and happiness that I saw in both of them was unbelievable.

I miss my dad's comforting soul. Although he bossed me around like it was nobody's business, he's doing it because he loves me. I hope that one day I won't get so irritated about him bossing me around. I hope my hospitality was welcoming and loving.

I noticed that I am similar to my dad in many ways. He did the trick in reminding who I am and where I came from.

A loving daughter,
My-Linh

P.S. My dad will be talking about this trip to California for months. He left a few things, maybe he's moving in slowly.

Dear Sports Fans,

I just watched an amazing game of rugby!!! The Berkeley Rugby Football Club beat East Palo Alto by just five points in the playoff game. The game was filled with aggressive spirit on both sides. However, BRFC stepped up and won. Some friends came out for the game which was great to see their support.

This year is the first year I have watched live rugby. The game's popularity dominates in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and England. I have now become a fan but it is tough to watch because it is a full contact sport without pads and plus my boy friend plays.

I find life to be quite exciting when you meet new people who bring you different perspectives and experiences. The world has many unique opportunities and elements to it that are endless and beautiful.

Love watching sports,
My-Linh

P.S. Go to a sporting event. It might be fun.

To those who have pets,

Yesterday our poor goldfish Ninja died. He wasn't eating and I think that the move caused him much stress. If you have ever seen a goldfish suffer it is pretty heartbreaking. Ninja survived for 2 years and has kept me company.

I set Ninja free with a nice orange flower in Lake Merritt. There were some birds lurking around wanting mid-afternoon snack. I assumed that Ninja got eaten. People have told me that it is a part of life. Other animals need to eat too, I guess.

Pet fish are easy to take care of but you have to be careful because the water has to be just right for them to survive and they need oxygen. I suppose friends too.

Mourning,
My-Linh

P.S. I hope you are living life with a bit more zest because who knows when it will be your turn to die.