Vere dignum et justum est

Good morning, greetings and welcome ! I would like to start with thanking everyone for their gracious comments about the last blog " The summer adventures of travelling", unfortunately since I am back at work I need to save up again for another holiday so I can write about new adventures. Unless Lonely planet, or I can start my TV series called Panda Gryills.

Phew what a busy fortnight with St Valentines day, wedding invitations, early mornings and late nights. Don't know if you can keep up, but of course you can! live life to fullest.
Alright lets begin, after reading Anh Do's book "The Happiest Refugee" I am super excited about reviewing it! Lets begin with what the title of this blog means. "Vere dignum et justum est", this literally means "It is truly right to give Him (God) thanks and praise!" I believe that Anh Do's book really incorporates this well and how we are so lucky and grateful to be in this country Australia. If it weren't for Australia I wouldn't be here writing this blog, and marrying the greatest beauty in Terra Australis. (Yes Lucy)


So Anh do, story starts in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, his parents have just fallen in love on a train heavily controlled by the new regime, his uncles are in prison known as reeducation camps. One of these uncles actually has his intestines taken out for malaria treatment. My dad tells me he is living in Sydney now. The first chapter is full of love and drama, finishing with their narrow escape from the Vietnamese border patrol, and two, yes two pirate attacks complete with bearded Thai pirates.

However throughout this ordeal only one young man commits suicide, but the rest of the group of 40 survive and get processed offshore and await a country of asylum. Lucky for them Australia being such an awesome country accepts them. Like Anh, our family was in a processing camp in Thailand for 2 years and my parents were able to see Pope John Paul II how wonderful. As you are aware, Anh Do family is extremely Catholic, like many other Vietnamese refugee. For some reasons through out history the funniest boat people have come from Catholic backgrounds, like Ireland. I've always believe in my heart that if you had a Vietnamese and Irish family coming together it would be like comedy central.



As Anh grows up he talks about his many experience, his first love, his first fight and how it was a struggle financially to keep up with the Jones at Joey's. But financially they were never poor because, his mum a would be nun, would always shelter even poorer people in their home to show how well off they were. Wow, at this point I was almost in tears, yes a big guy like mean almost crying because like Anh we were never poor and created our own adventures which generally ended up with me being hit with a cane because growing up with 3 sisters they would copy me and end up with many cuts and bruises, thus my dad would take down the ring leader.

Now Anh is in uni and meets the love of his life, however she doesn't go out with him for 5 years but get engaged only after 3 weeks of dating. That's right Anh is the man!, no point in wasting time, because he quotes after his dad "If you meet a girl you like, marry her, don't wait. Because there is now and there is too late!". I just love this attitude to life, you've got to hand it to Anh with his never give up attitude.
It must be something with the combination of Vietnamese man marrying a White girl. The white girl really makes it hard for us, poor refugee blokes, gee whiz. Unlike myself, Suzy's parents take to Anh like white people to spring rolls. I guess I'll be bringing more spring rolls to the will be in laws in the near future.(hehehehehehe)




Anh and Suzy marry and live happily ever after how nice. I won't review any more of the book because I want you to read it because it's such a wonderful book. For me Anh Do's book made me understand why my dad always says " I am in heaven now, in Australia".

So at this point you're thinking where is Truong going with this blog, well please pardon me at the moment, my mind is totally distracted with getting married so I am so nervous and jittery like a jitterbug. But please bear with me, the main point of this blog is what to do as Australians with our superpowers.


Well as you all know the "Fair Dinkum" or "Give everyone a go" attitude is derived from the Latin dignum et justum est, so what is" just and right"? Simple, next time you go to the supermarkets just take your items to the check out chick instead of the machine. Because you are using your powers for good, keeping someone employed and using human interaction as opposed to a machine. We want to keep Australia from becoming a machine state where greed prevails, we want more Anh do's who gives up a high power coop orate job at Macquarie bank, to serve the community with his laughter. But if you haven't got a funny bone in your body keep the latter.


Things to do in Sydney

Gee whiz, i should stick to my day job and not explore human philosophy because my analogies don't sound like Plato at all, however I am good at Friday night dates. Lets me tell you what to do in Sydney.
The place to be is, Darlinghurst on a super post St Valentines date. OK so you did wake up enough after 4 early morning alarms on Valentines day, and couldn't make it to the flower markets to buy cheap roses, so you had to buy one from the man at the traffic lights.
You didn't get a booking at her favourite Japanese restaurant, and ended up at the Yerros shop in Marrickville and your card was a tad cheesy from the servo, because it was a Tuesday and being a Tuesday you had to get petrol, so to get a further discount on the fuel you needed to spend 5 dollars in store.
What to do now? Don't fret just make a booking at the Victoria Rooms in Darlinghurst, because if you really stuffed up big time this is the place to take your girlfriend/fiance/wife to, because generally men stuff up and you really need a trump card to make it up. This will surely get you out of the, does this guy even love me book, into the fancy diary with love heart lock book.



At first, the front entrance of the Victoria Rooms was very hard to find, and it was next to a restaurant that was closed down due to health regulations. In my head I was thinking, this place is really Victorian with sub standard neighbours, but as you walk up the stairwell, you are invited by a friendly guy called Jeremy who takes you to a booth. The lightning, the mood, the ambiance is all here for a "Oo, ahh, you are the best darling!" response because this time nothing is going to go wrong. The main reason are; the ambience, there are guy called Jeremy, they have fondue, and remember to wear a dark shirt just incase you spill chocolate on your shirt embarrassing your date.
As you approach your seating area, you are presented with wide variety of drinks and a shared menu. This is a great way to spend the evening looking into each others eyes over sweet or savoury fondue. Another friendly tip here for men who are not fondue specialist, remember to dip, dabble, drain, then slowly place the fork in your mouth, drawing it out slowly. Splendid don't you think, if you're in trouble for not doing anything for Valentines day, don't go sour puss on me, get out there to the Victoria Rooms.



Deo gratias.

Summer travelling within and with out.

Good morning, welcome and greetings to all. Happy new year, to all and everyone and it is so wonderful to be writing again. I hope that the summer holidays are still rolling on and we are slowly getting back to work and into another great year.

Well you might have missed reading According to Truong over the last summer, and I have sorely missed writing. However, our frail human nature does call us to rest and relax, so that we can travel within ourselves. So in this blog I would like to write about what really inspired me over the break and what really made me tick and tock.

Over the summer I was very lucky, well fortunate to travel to 3 different states of Australia and had both a wonderful and awful time at each location. In summary don't overdo a summer holiday it might sound like a great idea to do as much as possible, but realistically the internal travel which your soul needs only requires little physical travelling but much internal travelling. This sounds deep but all it means, go somewhere nice, pick a random spot and spend a few good days there soaking it up. Just like a red wine that needs to mature in a French Oak barrel.

Lets begin on how it went and what to avoid to all those budding travellers out there.

Sydney to Adelaide
Most memorable moment: Spending time with a little white dog called Tory.
Most beautiful town: Mt Pleasant
Worst cafe ever: Art house cafe/Roaring 40's cafe Angaston South Australia
Best bakery: Mt Pleasant Bakery
Best winery: Chateau Tanunda

How to be romantic in SA? If I were a married man and I were to plan another trip to Adelaide I would book a hotel in the CBD and explore the history of Adelaide for 2 days, then start the romantic wine tour of the Barossa valley. Starting early, the first stop would be Hanhdorf stocking up on German sausages for an afternoon picnic, then heading to morning tea in Mt Pleasant. Then I would head straight to Chateau Tanunda and spend 3 nights in this area. Buy 2 cases of Chateau Tanuda wine and spend the afternoon with sausages, cheese and wine. Simple as that.



Adelaide to Melbourne
Most memorable moment: Breathtaking view of Blue Lake
Most beautiful town: Mt Gambier
Best camp site: Mt Shank
Worst road ever: The Great Ocean Rd
Worst tourist destination: The 12 Apostle tourist centre
Over rated natural wonder: The 12 Apostles
Best food experience: Met wurst
Best customer service: Mary Mackillop Shop, shop attendant Penola " There is a 24 Mac Donald's in Mt Gambier!"

How to be romantic on the Adelaide to Melbourne road trip? The only way to be romantic on a long haul road trip is to give yourself a time frame and then extend it by 2 days. I would firstly spend at least 2 nights in Mt Gambier to camp around the Blue lake area. There has always been something about the colour blue, blue skies, blue seas, blue eyes, blue Groper, blue lake. It's such a beautiful colour and to see a huge lake in this amazing bright blue color is truly a blessing in blue. Did I forget to mention blue is beautiful.


Moving on towards Melbourne, I would stop in Portland. If I were a married man with 2 kids between the ages of 5-12, Portland would be a great destination to try for a third child. It is reminiscence of 18th century England where Piers, summer carnivals, and trams kept smiles on people's faces and ice cream on shirts. An era where people like myself could whistle tunes composed by Sir Hubert Parry. An era where pipe smoking and port drinking were the norm and for ladies ice lemon tea with a hint of Bombay gin. Nice.


Moving on towards the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles. I would have to say is something that I would never do again even if the Victorian government gave me a research grant to explore the possibility of extra-terrestrial activities at the Thunder bird launch site. Furthermore, if the Federal government, appointment me minister of hanging out I would avoid set my leather sandals on the Great Ocean Rd. I don't know why it is one of Australia's must go places. It is over crowded, the road is poorly maintained, you can barely see over the edge and to add salt to my leg wound, the 12 Apostles centre located at the 12 Apostles tourist site did not sell any Australian made Fridge Magnets or any other souvenir for that matter.
If you were going to see the 12 Apostles, to follow Jesus and be a disciple, to become a fisher of men, if you had a vocation and you're looking for that Alleluia moment be wise and don't go here because all you'll get is crowds, heat, helicopters, no fridge magnets and only 10 or maybe 9 Apostles left.

Melbourne to Davenport
Best moment: Screaming out greetings to local people in Davenport as the Spirit of Tasmania cruised into port.
Best dining experience: On board the Spirit of Tasmania Restaurant
Worst part: Disembarking and going through quarantine

New to sailing or cruise ship? I am, a great way to experience this at a relative low price is go on the Spirit of Tasmania. So you're married and your 10 year anniversary is coming up? You're mortgage is half way through and you have 4 children under the age of 10, but how to work within a budget? The spirit of Tasmania is the way to go here. It gives you good bang for buck value.
Basically, I would pack as much food as possible into the family Tarago or Landcruiser, take the food out as we board the trip, bring the food into the private cabin. Eat as much as we can then set everyone loose on the ship for 8 hours. Since it is a ship, minimum supervision is required, however there is the fact of rough seas and falling overboard. But that risk is low because the guide ropes are strong.
On board, there is face painting, arts and craft, movies, alcohol food, shops and levels to explore. The trick to smooth sailing is preparation, book a private cabin, bring your own food or buy hot food it's very cheap, and sit back and relax.


Tasmania
Tasmania, ah Tasmania I would love to write about it again, but sadly like the hops, barely, and malt.The main ingredients of a good ale, the mixture was right, but the fermentation process turned out sour. The yeast was to blame. Turning a potential great refreshing ale into soy sauce.



I hope everyone enjoyed the first blog of the year, reflecting back on the blog I have come to the conclusion that we humans are just like parts of a good wine or ale. We were made in the image of God, perfect, plum and pristine, Shiraz Grape, or tall, bronze with a bountiful blooming head like a stalk of barley.
However as we get mixed up, combined, crushed, blended in this journey of life, all the good parts are there. But as we ferment into something beautiful, such as champagne or ale. We have to be careful and on guard that we don't get mixed up with the wrong yeast. We know that yeast is a catalyst and it can turn good things into great things, or good things into awful sour things that we want to spit out followed by thorough rinsing with water.
So lets become Don Perignon Champagne, or Don Rosendo Salvado Abbey Ale. Just stay away from whatever yeast that might ruin a good vintage, and if you're like me a good strong, dark Ale.

Things to do in Sydney, it's going to be hot hot hot hot hot, and I did forget to say Hot. If you are unaware many Asian communities will be hosting Lunar New Year festivals throughout the city. But the place to experience Vietnamese food and culture, is to head to Fairfield Showground to the annual Vietnamese community Tet Festival. If you have been devoutly following Luke Nguyen's cooking adventure and been dying to experience the rich flavours of Indo China this is the place to be from Friday to Sunday.

http://grabyourfork.blogspot.com/2009/02/tet-festival-fairfield-showground.html

http://www.sbs.com.au/yourlanguage/vietnamese/article/1767/T%E1%BA%BFt-2011/

Deo Gratias

Dear All, it's been a whole year and what a wonderful year it has been, if you have been following the according to Truong series, I would like to applaud your patience because Truong is a very complex human being and following the situations in the blog would have been a difficult one. But thank you once again dear readers.

Lets get stuck into it, and talk about the most controversial item of the blog. GIRLS and BAKING.
This topic for me has been the talking point of most conversations and I have not only been the centre of scrutiny but also gained a few kilograms in the process. I must admit women do love to prove a point and the point has been made that they surely can bake. From Mars bars slice to awesome RACE TRACK chocolate cakes with tiny teddy race car drivers on a liquorice tarmac.
However I am yet to taste Lucy Gressers famous cheese cake assortment. I am sure it will be coming in the near future.

But my Akubra straw hat goes off to Tiny Teddy race car drivers in Marsbar cars with, smarties alloy wheels. Awesome. If a girl can produce such a cool cake, and they accidentally burn it. It doesn't matter because If it has some sort of car/racing/engine theme it is a WINNER. Chequered flag and all.

Now, lets us not stick to just cakes, there are also party pies, pizzas, roast meats, jacket potatoes.
And lets not forget famous roast chickens with stuffing and gravy. What about using other mediums of cooking not only can you use an oven, you can even use a camp fire. One important thing I have learnt from this series is that baking is at the heart of every women, and not only can they bake beautiful things to eat out of love. But the most beautiful form of baking is bringing lovely children into this world as they idiom goes "I've got one in the oven". So my formal felt Akubra really goes off with a bow and formal proclamation saying thank you.
So even if it's overdone, there will always be a miraculous ding at the end with a smile.




Well I hope that everyone has enjoyed the series this year and this will be the last broadcast before I go on holidays for the year, I would like to start writing these blogs again after I have come back from Tasmania with the famous Frassati group.

Now what can we do in Sydney this weekend? It's going to be a big weekend if you're don't have any plans then thats a good thing. Because I would stay home because of all the crazy shopping that will be going on this weekend so be careful not to trip or fall. So have a Merry Christmas that is fill with peace and Joy of celebrating the birth of Lord Jesus Christ with the people you love most in this world. Deo gratias.

How to rescue a damsel in distress series

Good morning WORLD, what a marvellous Friday, the sun is gleaming through the dark rain clouds that have loitered around our summer skies this week. Don't you just hate loitering! But not to worry it's gives men more time to prepare themselves for the upcoming summer. I would like to start this next edition with, how to save a damsel in distress, once you have fixed her car and driven to the beach. However she or one of her friends is caught in a rip current and needs your assistance. The second part of this blog I would like to help you men with how to choose that perfect Christmas present your beloved.

Part 2, What do I need to help a struggling damsel in distress in a rip current.
This is huge, you've just fixed up the car and now you and the damsels are swimming. Oh no, one of them has been caught in a 25m rip current! There is not much time here to loiter. You're a man of ACTION and decisiveness. However, do not panic because Truong will help out here.
Thanks to our Australian climate in Summer it is best to load up your trunk with a minimum 50-60 litre Esky. I have noticed that they have wheels now so its a great way to relax on the beach with an Esky. Now why on Earth do you think an Esky is important here? Well the lid is basically a personal floatation device which can save lives.

So item number 1 on the list for saving a drowning damsel in distress is always load up a large Esky (if there are Americans and English reading, i guess its called an Ice Box).
So now you have to run to where your Esky lid is, run back into the rip current, use the Esky lid as a floatation device and slowly help her back to the shore line. Remember to pay attention to the waves and always wait till a large set of 7 breaking ways to crash before making your way back to shore NEWS BREAK, SWIM sideways. Using the Esky lid will help with controlling the situation.


Above diagram displaying a typical Australian rip current with DYE

Now your safely back on the shoreline, ask her if she has swallow much water? if she has it is imperative you call an ambulance. Most beaches will have a beach marker number on the sign so remember to quote this so the services can rush to the scene. If the she didn't swallow any water, then pop out an ice coconut tea and soak up the sun, You've just saved a life.

In conclusion, buy an Esky, save lives, keep drinks cool.



Christmas present gift guide for gentlemen
Now, as everyone is aware it is really hard to buy a present these days that will satisfied the woman you love. So what to do in this situation, if you are like me, you really detest getting stuff that is made in China, and will not stand up to the test of time then how about making a present from scratch.
Making a present you say? What should I make? That's entirely up to you, I believe that every man deep down has a DIY gene and using this caveman instinct you can make something. I have seen over the past Christmases for example beautifully carve wooden boxes, or a nice water colour picture, or even my specialty a diorama of a scene that has happen during the year.
You have 3 weeks left so get your act together and make something, you can even put a Made in Australia sticker on it.

So I won't keep you any longer, lets make an effort here and make something for Christmas.


SYDNEY activities this week? This weekend is jammed packed if I hear any complaining about err "there is nothing to do in Sydney", I am going to get off my computer chair and get my mother's extra Strong Thai fish sauce, and If you have been watching Luke's Nguyen Vietnam cooking adventure, I am going to saturate you with FISH SAUCE. So that you'll be extra so tasting the sharks in Sydney harbour will find you a delicacy.

So here is the list

1. V8 Supercars final series, wow a whole weekend of adrenaline pumping action with the V8 super car finals, Tony Hawk and an awesome hard rocking guns and roses concert. I think if I go to this my year would be complete.
2. http://www.navy.gov.au/Carols_On_The_Bay, thanks to the awesome people at the ROYAL Australian Navy.
3. Get working on your Christmas present.

So that's it from according to Truong this week, DEO Gratias.

How to rescue a damsel in distress series

Salutations dear readers, summer is finally upon us and as the temperature rises and the humidity goes pass 80%. There will more and more damsels in distress because they are outside and in the open air. So what can a man do this summer to prepare himself to rescue a damsel in distress. So welcome to the Summer survial guide series of According to Truong. In this series I would like to write about what are essentials a man needs this summer, to be that man who can save the day. Over the next few weeks be prepared and get ready to understand why McGyver was such a ladies man. Stephen ZENG who sits at this location-33.877080, 151.210823 this is going to be super man-ly after reading this I can guarantee you'll have a thick and glossy beard.

Topic 1. Summer road trip to Far north Queensland.

Lets place ourselves in the situation, two young guys looking for adventure. Driving in a used commodore or camry towards Cairns or Townsville. The temperature is shooting pass 35 degrees and the humidity is unbearable. Over the past 15 hours from Sydney you have probably been wondering why did you go on this trip, where you could be at home playing Assasin's creed.
Well the temperature is unbearable now and your travelling at 110km/h and it's late afternoon and you really want to go for a swim. But as you are roaring off the highway into a remote beach, whilst driving through the lush vegetation, the sweet sea breeze filing your lungs with exciting, you put your board shorts on in the car in anticipation of the cool water. You notice a damsel in distress through the lens of your polarised sunglasses. She and her female companions have parked their car on an uphill section and they are just looking at the billowing white smoke coming out of her car.
Well what are you going to do in this situation? Keep driving? or stop and try to help

Well this is going to be interesting if you stop you will need tools and this next section I will help you prepare yourself and be like McGyver to be that hero who can save that damsel in distress. Or in this situation a school of Damsels.

Rightio, lets start here you have now pulled over with your friend, so the damsels are already confident there is nothing fishy here. Your wearing board shorts and a smell faintly of Oasis coconut flavour ice tea, you're wearing a XXXX or bundy rum t-shirt becauseyou don't want to get busted up by the locals when travelling in far north Queensland. With all this apparel they can relax and accept your help because they now know you're not like that Wolf Creek serial killer guy.





Step 1. Be confident
Speak clearly and slowly. Damsels in distress are generally people of the sanguine nature and will probably be very emotional. Offer her an Oasis Ice tea and say. It looks like the car is just over heating, it's a small problem and happens all the time it shouldn't be hard to fix right here on the spot. I'll see what my mate and I can do.

Step 2. Examine the problem
Now that you have the situation under control have look around the engine bay, you will notice that the radiator hose, that runs from the radiator to the engine has a small crack in it. Big bummer. This is a common problem with sanguine women who don't have much knowledge of cars and servicing. Generally rubber hoses break in more frequently in summer due to the extremes of temperatures and general usage.
" Now stay calm, and ask how's that Ice tea, it's my favourite" When you have a question and reply in one sentence it really spins girls out because it will put them in a more relax mood some how.

Step 3. Produce the goods.
Firstly, you will need a the ever dependable Leatherman, probably the best and coolest multi tool all men should have. Secondly, on road trips carry extra water, roughly 5 litres and always try to keep it that way. Thirdly, always keep some sikaflex in the boot it's a multi-purpose sealer. Too easy hey if you can't find any sikaflex use chewing gum. Do you have electrical tape? well get some now. Sorry lads this is the painful bit, you will have to cut some of your rubber off your thongs to help her out, because no way on earth she is going to give you any of hers so don't bother asking. Guess you'll have to survive barefoot for a while. Ouch hot sand.



Step 4 Can you fix it, Ofcourse you can.
She is probably smiling and admiring you now so don't blow it. Firstly you will have to wait till the radiator cools down but if there is a huge leak and lots of green or pink fluid is pouring out work quick. Firstly, get your beach towel cover the radiator cap so you can open it to release pressure. If you don't have a towel your going to get heaps of vapourise coolant all over, not smooth. If you are lucky and the the crack is near the end of the hose undo the clamps and cut that section off with your leatherman, and then crimp it back on with the Leatherman pliers. If not take off the hose use the rubber seal it, tape it.
Once everything is in place, fill up the reserve radiator bottle with water, clean water is best then turn the car on, with the hot air setting on the temperature setting. Then turn on the interior fan on full blast to run the new water through. Slowly add more water into the main radiator and let it run. It should be sweet now all you have do is say "We'll have another look to see if there is anything else wrong!Have a quick look around the car and check tyre pressure, then take the car for a little drive to ensure everything is running. Remember team work with your mate because you can't be a grass cutter and not share the glory.




Step5 Be gallant.
This is brill ant opportunity to ask them all if they need any more help, and invite them for a swim, because the car will have to cool down. So sit back and enjoy Oasis ice tea, coconut flavour is the one to go for.

In summary. Buy a leatherman (thanks Lucy for my one) or ask for one this Christmas "I chose you Leatherman Wave", buy marine grade Sikaflex, buy electrical tape and be the man or men remember team work. Well I have really enjoyed writing this piece about summer trips and damsels in distress. I hope you can join me again soon for more summer adventure in the According to Truong, summer survival series.



Gosh, Sydney weather has become so unpredictable but since I am confident it is going to be sunny and bright I am advising killing 2 birds with one stone this weekend. If you're looking for Christmas presents or you're helping to choose presents, why not head down to Berry and head to the cool looking Coo Coo clock shop I don't really know the name but they sell very interesting stuff. They have various presents and everyone will happy. Not only get all your Christmas shopping done in one shop, but you can go for a swim and eat fresh seafood in Kiama on the way back. Followed by a drink at the Jamberoo inn i really like this inn for it's charm and personality, plus i have never tried to the food so please someone, report back. Oh and if you forgot a present and wanted something handmade, drive up to the Benedictine monastery up to the hill, to the left. Deo Gratias

Spring fashion Review 3

Well it's been a rain drenched week, and how wonderful is this rain! I just love the sound of rain either softly or lightly falling on the roof of the colorbond carport. It's gives you the sense of regularity and puts you to bed in less than 10mins. Its been a while since I could remember such rain, since the mid 1990's me thinks? when I was an annoying asian ankle bitter, I could remember putting paper boats down the kerb side and see it slowly drift to sea via our stormwater systems. I wonder where all those boats sailed to? Could it be Vietnam or even as far as Madagascar. Well I hope everyone out there has had a productive week and all smooth sailing with our fair trade winds, oh and this month of November we remember all our deceased, especially our loved ones, our soildiers who have fought in numerous wars for freedom and all those who have died with no one to remember them . Requiescat in pace

In this next installment of according to Truong spring fashion review I would like to incorporate wet weather fashion. I have been catching the train lately to work and it's a horror story for my post surgery ankle, each and every surface presents an adventure and being Truong, I love adventure.
Well lets start at why I really hate umbrellas and the mass usuage of uncessary, useless, umerous,under-rated,utterly irritating Umbrellas.


Firstly, in Sydney where we are trying so hard to be So called environmentally friendly, we are buying these cheap and nasty umbrellas which require massive resources to make to keep our head dry. Not only most of them are made in China, they only last a few weeks and people discard them all over the place. They are an eyesore and a waste of money, resources and makes our beloved city look cheap and plastic.

So how do you dress for wet weather? Ladies first of course, beauty before brain and brawn. I have always been a believer of the coat! Ladies should wear the spring weight cotton version by various brands out there, but I insist investing a high quality English made one if the price is too high try European or Australian made or even Korean, but never chinese because you want to make an investment not waste your money. They are light weight and the styling on these coats will suit any outfit, go for the double brested red or creams because they will enhance the waist line of any woman once the straps are done up. I prefer lapels as well.


If coats are not your thing, the a leather jacket, full grain lamb is the way to go. It is water proof and the look is to die for. Buying something that comes in black, red, dark brown will be suitiable. It is easy to choose the colour here, if your 30 or under red is the colour of choice, if your over 30 brown or black is the way to go here. Easy.
Next how do you keep your hair dry from all this weather if your a lady? Well thats really easy, there are soo many hat shops our there. Generally wool or felt hats will go nicely, please choose hats in red to white spectrum of the colour rainbow. You can choose from a variety of hats, but I have always been a fan of small hats on ladies with a small brim> please see attached.


Oh, I almost forgot I am always hearing "my feet are cold and my socks are wet", could you turn your car heater to the foot flow function. I really hate when this happens because not only does it fogs the windscreen, it also makes me feet really hot and it's super annoying, but like always beauty before safety. So there it a solution please please stop your complains because there is such an easy solution here. Go and buy new boots, yes Truong is giving all the ladies out there to go shoe shopping. Sorry lads but sometimes it is a necessary occasion of shopping here, you must go and help buy wool lined boots with a slight heal,tightly fitted toe and a sole that can be re-sole as time passes by. I have seem many beautiful boots out there, buy ones made in Europe because they are the best. Furthermore, leather gets better as time goes by and it gives your man out there a job of keeping them polished and watertight. I suggest using KIWI brand, but I know other people out there like using Dubbin, cough cough Chris.


Now moving onto the lads, we lads are easy, simply buy a gortex jacket, or leather jacket, or simply get wet. Cover your head with a cap, hat or get wet. Wear shoes made of leather and socks. Remember to always polish your leather boots or they won't be water proof for long. So easy. Lets move on to this week's review of Review.


Formal wear Gracie Lace dress for that super ultra 4000CmsT date.



So it's the end of the year almost, and you being a man-man like the old spice guy you want to do the right thing by your girlfriend, or someone you have been admiring for a while. You decide to spend up big and buy tickets to "Noel" peformed by the Sydney Philharmonia or it's the fancy Christmas dinner or even the Society Ball. Wow this is the big date, and if you have been reading my blog over the last few months you have been Crystal clear about asking that one girl out on a date.

Well ladies now please accept because Truong is feeling gracious today because he is allowing you to go shopping for that end of year dress. Being Truong he hates shopping but according this blog it is a necessary occasion of shopping. Well lets start.

Gracie lace dress by review, why do I like this dress? Well just look at the colour its just magnificent it's like a beautiful Don Perignon Champagne or that lovely 1960's Gullwing Merc. It just screams class and elegance. All I can if ladies are dress like this, they will sure be treated like a Spanish princess.



Now onto the fitting, it graciously fit the lines of the body and it gives the user the choice of wearing a long jacket or coat if it rains, or simply a light weight woollen jacket so you can burden the man to carry it on your long walk back to the Sydney Opera house car park, or you have been a tight you've parked in the rocks where there is limited free parking.

Finally, with such a beautiful piece all i can say don't wear belts or over do the accessory because this one unit is a stand alone and it meant to be that way.


I hoped that everyone has had a lovely time reading this blog and that your weekend if filled with super fun enjoyment. Now your wondering why Truong is so hyped up about rain, well there is so much fun to be had when it rains because you can do indoor activities, and since I have been advocating shopping maybe it's time to take your lady friend on a shopping date. Sorry lads but it a shopping weekend indoors with savoury pancakes, eggs Benedict, smoked trout, followed by cucumber sandwiches, earl grey tea, followed by more eating slow roasted lamb with a glass of port.
I'll place my order of bangers and mash with dark Ale! Deo gratias

Spring Fashion review part 2, evening wear

Salutations readers after a great week we all deserve a good seat down next to a pint of Honey Mead. If you haven't try Honey Mead you best try it, it is the drink of the gods, I say gods because I don't want to be a heathen. It's been two weeks since my last blog and like confession it's best to get them done in 2 week blocks. So without much further delay I would like to present to you According to Truong's spring fashion review part 2 evening wear.

Before we start I would like to write about the feed back I have been getting back from my friend Osman quoting " why are you writing about women's clothing?". This is an easy question, if you do your research on clothing you can save yourself time when your girlfriend asks you " do i look good in this?" all you have to say, yes you look good because I chose it. By showing an interest from the start it will help you along the way. Secondly, as a man growing up with 3 sisters I know that every woman is different and has moods that change like the Botany bay tide. In that fact, showing interest in clothing will determine how you treat women if they are on display then things will go downhill, if they dress accordingly things will start to develop internally.

Now spring is upon us, and thank God we have long day light hours and with long day light hours come long strolls along the harbour side. So what can one lady wear on such dates or outings in this dynamic weather condition. Well if you have clocked off from work and don't have time to get change then this review of Review fashion will surely help you along the way.

Date attire for evening outings


Diagram 1, Left model with black and white peony silk skirt.

When I look at this outfit, I just step back and say woah, double woah. And gentlemen if you ever feel this way, say to your date" you look absolutely ravishing!!!" and remember to look at the right places to avoid getting slapped. Anyhoos lets get on with the review.
Firstly, from the bottom the skirt has a classical peony black and white print. This sort of print does not go out of fashion and can be seem in many cultures . The versatility will help you if your boyfriend takes you to a Asian or European restaurant it will go well at any place. Secondly, the length of the skirt will help mobility especially if your date takes you out to a salsa bar, therefore you can really set the dance floor on fire. So mobility and modesty really go side by side and it aims at promoting mobility and freedom when your on these awesome dates.
The top half of this outfit is complemented with a silk blouse and light weight biker jacket. I really love this biker jacket because of it's cut and how it fits the arms and waist of the female figure very well. Not only does it look great but it will keep you warm in the dynamic spring weather. As you are aware I am a big fan of bikes.

Diagram 2. Right model Scarlett skirt Ingrid blouse.

One word here, this outfit is pretty! It's a complete unit that incorporates that first social outing meeting at a location in the city. Good places to meet are the Hyde Park Fountain, or the steps of the St Mary Cathedral. This unit allows you to go to work and go for that date you have been putting off for a while. So if you've been asked out a few times and haven't said yes, then this outfit can help you with that awkward date. Firstly, this outfit says I am pretty and confident, I am independent and I am not in a rush to fall into your arms unless that man is going to try extremely hard.
Lets start this review from the top to the bottom. The top is made from a silk/polyester blend with a nice cut and fit from the neck and shoulder lines expressing the feminine figure in a well blended format similar to that of a Honda S2000, the most notably is the fitted short cuffs that personally I really like on woman especially when she has her hand on her hips like the model, because I know I am in trouble. It's so much easy to read body language if the girl is dressing in a language we men can understand.



The skirt is just stunning for the price range, its blends model skirt cut style with a classical Romanesques motif on the lace finished with a small black leather belt. As my old computer programming professor would say, SIMPLE is beautiful and this skirt is the epitome of Simple and beautiful.
In short if she is wearing such an outfit she is shouting in your face, I deserve to go to a nice restaurant that requires a booking, with a table that has real cloth tablecloths not those paper ones followed by a desert that looks like this.



So if a lady is wearing this on your first date and you haven't booked a restaurant it's going to be a date FAIL. Sorry lads.

Lets get stuck into what we can do in Sydney this week. October is a great month, our nation's capital is celebrating the annual flower festival and what a great way to spend a day by visiting Canberra and strolling along the blossom filled boulevards. An amazing place that I have always wanted to explore is the little model village town of Cockington Green. So Sydneysiders set forth for our capital to enjoy these blooms before they wither. Deo Gratias.

According to Truong Spring fashion reviews.

After a few weeks of the dreaded and contagious bloggers mental block I am ready to write the next series of According to Truong. Spring fashion and why ladies clothing is very similar to modifications to cars.
First off, I do apologise for the dryness and lack of posts the past weeks and would like to thank you dear readers for coming back for another exciting series, where I will attempt to help to close the divide between understanding women. It's going to be very hard but like fishing it takes practice and patient, remember the two P's.
Lets start with why I think buying clothes with a lady is similar to modifying your car. This week I would like to start with the paint job and body kit. Like a car, the paint job and the body kit is the exterior appearance of the car and similar to dress, skirts, tops. However the major difference here is with a car, you usually only get one paint job and one body kit for the life of the car while you will have to go to at least three seasons a year with a woman. So be prepare and you will save time and money in your shopping adventure.

1. Choose your brand carefully.
When choosing a body kit for you car you always look for the best brands and best quality, for example you would choose a TRD kit with a Toyota, and a Nismo Kit for a Nissan, however you can venture into other companies depending on what you like, ABS resin or Cheap Taiwanese made fiberglass types. So before you go out there to help you choose some new clothing for your lady, search the Internet for what style you like, before you go out blind and get asked to walk endless through entire shopping malls. From experience, after about 3 dresses all dresses look the same and it is very difficult to tell the difference between red and pink.
2. Choose your style according to season and occasion.
It is extremely important to ask her, why do you want it? when are you going to where it, do you really need it? and is it made in China? when you have established these rules you can shop precisely and honestly for what you are looking for.
For example, before you start shopping, you have to be clear on what is this shopping expedition for, has she done some research on what she wants and will she wear it again.

Now that we have some ground rules lets start with some piratical examples of dress and my review of Review. I am big fan of Review because; number one it is made in Australia, number two their choice of material is excellent and thirdly their elegant style.

Day time dress for semi-formal occasions.
Why I like?
Simple design there are no extra bits to say "I am a rice cooker", beautiful motif which will ensure your dress will be wearable for another 2 decades, a nice colour that can go with a variety of occasions and skin tones. For example it is neither white or red so you could wear it to a wedding, then go to the beach and have a fish and chips.
Furthermore like buying car parts you want to look for durability. Since this dress if I am not mistaken is made i Australia it will be of the highest quality. Since this season Review has undergone a change and many of their dresses are Zipless meaning no more snags. This is pretty cool because once a zipper is busted the dress is pretty much gone. If your dress has a zip, remember to maintain it with lubricate such as wax or soap to ensure it glides, you can even put silicon or Teflon base sprays on your zipper to maintain the high level of zippiness especially for those quick 15min formula one style outfit changes. By maintaining your zippers you will have a dress wardrobe that is in tip top condition.
Beware, if your like me and always looking for a bargain, beware of fake copies especially on ebay. To avoid buying a fake off ebay, always ask for the tags, especially the unique security tag, they are as large as a British postage stamp.

http://www.review-australia.com/look-book/


I would like to end this first edition of the According to Truong fashion review and I hope to see you again in the further editions of my blog.

What to do in Sydney this weekend?
Gosh, it's been quite a while since I have been out, but the weekend outlook is for bright sunny skies. So it's festival season with a number of street festivals in Strathfield and the City, the noodle night markets. And if your into going to the circus, The Moscow circus is in town, all the way from Russia I think. So get out there and enjoy this beautiful spring weather.
Deo Gratias.

Men, how to groom yourself for a date.

Spic and span is a good state to be in. Lately, I have started to have showers after 6 weeks without one and I've notice that physical cleanliness is very important. While I was pondering this fact I knew the topic for this week for the According to Truong blog. Grooming and being clean while on a date.
It's been a while, and it is good to mention personal hygiene is extremely important in general and more so in dating. Firstly, when you are nervous you will sweat and to add to the discomfort Spring temperatures are on the increase, there will be an increase risk of body odour being released and this will deter woman from your presence.



Lets begin with grooming for a date.
Step 1.
Always, always have a shower, shave and brush your teeth. These are the foundations of grooming, a shower must be no shorter than 4mins and no longer than 10mins. If your spending more than 10mins in a shower your skin will go wrinkly thus making you more nervous on a date. It is good to get into a very hot shower so that your veins pop to the surface increasing the muscular tone to your arms. The arms are very important if your going rescue her from falling off a cliff.
After showering, it is best to put on some talcum powder and deodorant so that if you do sweat it will be absorbed by the talc and deodorant. No one really wants to see sweat pouring off your shirt and then drying
Secondly, the shave is important if you don't keep a beard. Just cream and aftershave will do no more no less. If your keeping a beard make sure it's old growth soft, and well brushed.
Thirdly, brushing your teeth is extremely important. A healthy smile can really turn the tide against you. Women generally look at a man's teeth to determine bone density and healthy child producing mechanisms. So please remember to brush your teeth regularly gentleman. Additionally, according to Men's health magazine, clean teeth also reduces the risk of heart attack.


Step 2. Details of the nails and the nose.
If your going anywhere, remember to trim the two N's. With young men, the rate of both nails and nostril hair is roughly 0.5mm a day. So after a week or two you have to be careful not to have long finger and toe nails. After your check of the nails, check your nose and trim accordingly. What can turn off a woman is bushy nose hair, it is the height of disgusting. So guys please remember the 2N's.

Step 3. Push ups
It's all about blood flood and adrenaline. Before putting on your going out clothes increase your blood flow and calm your nerves with a few push ups. Do as many as you need, when your chest begins to hurt you know your ready for anything. So if you do get a broken heart after the date, at least your chest is rock solid.

Step 4. Don't spend time on your hair.
When a man spends way to much time on hair products and shaping it you have problems. To make life easier, wear a hat or sun glasses. Maybe racing goggles, or animal skin hat. That will solve your problem.



Well I hoped I've cover all points to grooming and good luck.

What to do in Sydney this weekend, the weather forecast is looking spectacular it's going to be hot and time to get your swimming gear to head to the beach. Why not start with whale watching, at Sandon Point where a whale has beached itself on the rocks, followed by lunch down in Calburra. All in all, it's going to be hot so go somewhere to enjoy the sea breeze before it gets to hot and your toes will burn on the sand. Ouch.

Oh and a shout out to L>G and her brother who is hospital. Stay Ice Cool.
Oh and Chris your annoying but i'll link up your site just this week.http://imknotdum.blogspot.com/2010/09/moneywhere-does-it-go.html

Another week ends, and the temperature is rising. I was walking to work and notice how visually spectacular the green and lush grass growing from the dark damp winter top soil. How beautiful is the fresh spring grass, it just makes you want to pull up alongside a park bench and watch the word go by. However not all of us have the luxury of slouching back to gaze into the blue skies of Sydney. So I hope everyone is enjoying the current blogs of late and I do thank you for reading these blog.
I have noticed that my blogs are usually aimed at the male audience but tonight my blog is a gift to all the ladies to enjoy if your out there reading it.

Firstly, I apologise if guys keep asking you out, coming around with polished cars and asking you out on dates to a remote location. But, I give credit where credit is due and say good on you for saying yes to that first date. Now here are some tips to guarantee to help you protect your heart and find the perfect man who you will spend the rest of your days with, a man who will make you laugh so hard you'll cry and at the same time your abs will get a working, so you'll have a flat stomach simply by just enjoying life.

Rule 1, Be wise, protect your heart.
Always, always be yourself, be clear and concise of what you want from a man. If you dont' know what you want Let Truong tell you. Firstly, he has to have a job or some sort of career path happening for him. If that being running alongside the garbage bin at 4am, or a sheep and grain farmer from country Victoria. If he has a job and can pay for a date from start to finish you can be assure he can provide you with a cave, kitchen, and maybe a clawfoot bath tub made of cast iron I know for a fact every womans dream is to have a Kitchen with all the Miele appliances complete with granite benchtops and a colonial style bathroom with an cast iron bath tub.
So on that first date remember to ask all these questions straight away, don't be fooled with all the sweet talking, because even if he is a mute and has a job you know he can provide a C>K>B. Oh if you are wondering, "I am only in uni or school can I go out on dates?" Well if your date has met these criterias ofcourse you can so long as he has met the criteria. IE Job, C>K>B.


Rule 2 Be prudent, beware of sweet talking.
So over the winter men have been reading the According to Truong blog and now he is confident with his ability to woo and court, using similes, blended with a hint of wit and toasted together with in offensive humour. BEEP BEEP BEEP, these are the warning bells, the only major fault, (warning!!!they may have other faults) in a woman is her inability to graciously avoid flattery. I have heard from various women "FLATTERY only gets you so far" So if your heart is not protected from flattery, wear a blouse close to the neckline so this will help direct his gaze towards your eyes. If he is looking at you as a women and not an object your date will go smoothly.


Rule 3. Have high standards.
It is good to expect more from men, because they are not the sharpest tool in God's shed when it comes to understanding their opposite and equal women. So if you expect your man to buy dinner, and dress in nice clothes once in a while then he will generally do it. However you the woman must have expectations. Go home write a list and see what a man can do to meet those expectations. The key to high expectations is to have high ones, and be surprised that they are being marked off. Secondly, don't expect all your expectations to be filled straight away because you'll be freaked out how much the guy knows about you and you'll be turned off. It takes a whole life time to work out what you expect because a woman's mind is base on emotions so please use your superior intellect and expect the un-expected, high expectations. In summary, have high stadards so you'll get treated as a Princess.


Rule 4. Have fun finally.
Courtship is fun, it is meant to make you laugh, it is meant to be an enjoyable time, so it's best and wise to be doing things on dates rather than sitting their aimlessly. So always expect the man to have a plan, that includes activities then some down time, and then end it. If you request to be dropped home earlier, it will make the second date a much more pleasant experience. If you have gone out on a second date and it isn't fun, can that man.
So you're probably wondering, "I am a girl and there a few men asking me out at the same time, what should I do?" Well my personal opinion is that if 5 guys ask you out, then be clear with all your suitors that you have a few dates planned and many suitors waiting. So you're looking for friendship first. Don't get caught up with just one guy. Of of those 5 guys one will shine through! Yes you are worth every single ounce of frustration that guy is going through.

Well there you have it, some simple and proven facts to aid you in your courtship. Ladies go out and enjoy being beautiful, young, happy, and be admired because with out you the world wouldn't be the same. Gosh this week has gone so quickly and work has allowed everyone to home early so I am taking my beloved LG out to dinner can't wait.(Hope your happy that you got a mention hehehehe)

What to do in Sydney this weekend, if your into Asian culture, then you are aware that Mid-Autumn festival is occurring in most Asian cultures these upcoming weeks. It is a good opportunity to explore the cultures and their individual cuisine. A great place to go this week is Cabramatta, catch the train, bring 50 dollars and enjoy it all. Smell, taste, see and feel what Cabramatta has to offer. Oh and Chris, David and Anthony my work mates, thanks for helping me to work you guys.

Deo Gratias.