It was a feeling of happiness, when so many people remember my birthday. A day full of wishes, love, presents, kisses and hugs

The first to send me an email was my family (one day early) whom I miss endearingly. They don't understand what I do for my job, they don't comment on my plans or prohibit me from doing anything, because deep down I know they have strong belief and pride in their little daughter.

The first to send me a card and present was M beo. We have become some kind of life friends that such friendship is just too cute to describe. He sent me this little something from Japan (he knows i love all Japanese stuff). And his words are just so sincere that I thought of my 10th birthday when I received some wishes from a friend of same age. I will see him this weekend, at last, after his efforts to come visit me in London early this year. So looking forward to a late bd celebration in Paris, be it just strolling down the Seine, sipping a cup of coffee having some pastry at a bistro, whatever...

The first to "really know what I want for my birthday" (without me telling of course) was Yen. She's been with me for as long as I remember. She is my true-est girl friend whom I confide in, rely on, and have fun with. Yen is spoilt in a cute way that makes me love her even sometimes when getting so mad for her silliness and complication.

The first to "send herself as a birthday gift" for me was Aim. She got her UK visa just two days before and what I am expecting as a gift will weigh around 50+ kg, have a huge smile, and will also cook dinner for me everyday. Literally cannot wait.

So many firsts, so many memories, even though the entire day passed by in the cold, dann office with people shouting on the phone, running on the floor, ignoring the whole world around them. I have to thank all my friends for remembering me despite the distance, the long time no see, and the busy life that everybody has. TChi, TVan, Mai beo, Thao, Yen_Mai, Hanh, my highschool friends, my Conn friends, my facebook friends, some of whom I have met once, some of whom I have talked only a little, some of whom I have helped and received help... but all have added different colors to my 23rd celebration. Lan and chi Hanh Vinh sneaked out of the office to have a Paul lunch with me. Anh TA bought me flowers. My housemates James and Jola sent me text messages. It feels so warm to have these people around me. Deep inside, I want to thank each and every of them for blessing me with their friendship, sincerity, love and fun they bring.

It was also a feeling of disappoitment. A day passed by with sad and angry moments in the office. Absolutely not-understanding bosses who just demand and order. Absoluting time-consuming piece of work that took me hours to finish. No fancy dinner in a fancy restaurant. Musical tickets bought then got thrown away. Staying in the office till 11pm. Taking the cab home in the cold. No romantic walk in the park. No wine. No balloons. My glasses broken to top the tragedy. Blind.

But in spite of all bad happenings to me on the day, I did have a blast, in my very own way, of celebrating my 23, with the people who truly love and care for me, wherever part of the world you are now.

Thank you my friends.

Paris here I come Yen and M Beo, seeing you so soon!