No where else I'd rather be.

Sydney really is one hell of a charmer.
Despite having thought seriously about residing in Australia for the rest of my life; I finally decided against it. Sure; its beauty is undeniable, its lifestyle and culture is beyond tempting and its 'suit' for my personality and desires in life are nothing less than perfect. All that aside; Malaysia is my home. It's what I am.. it's something I can't run away from and it's a country I respect as my heritage.
There are many reasons to fall in love with Sydney the way I have.

It isn't difficult at all when it is the home of Bourke st. bakery; kings of all laminated doughs and sour loaf perfection.How about irresistible flatwhites enjoyed alfresco? The long stretch of accessible beaches.. the blue crisp ocean waters...
... Its beautiful skyline..the Harbour... its bridge!Its majestic opera house.
The array of excellent cuisine..
The history..The diversity of structural compositions.vast number of cultures...The fresh produce..the Chocolates
....breathtaking parks filled with blooming flowersthe passion for eco friendly-ness Australians pride themselves with...Pleasant smiles and excellent company...The expressive art forms scattered throughout every aspect of the city..
...treasure filled weekend markets..
The SHopping!from going up adventure filled alleyways.....to discovering underground heritage buildings preserved so very well.Oh I could make this list go on forever!!!

Weary of the "too much of something"-syndrome, I've concluded that Sydney was at best be kept a pleasant little retreat for myself every now and then. It could be my sanctuary! It didn't have to be home.
The feeling of not always having exactly what it is you want makes things and places alike more appealing. It's what helps me appreciate my time spent in my favourite City in the world.
I must have taken no less than 1500 photographs that week. Most of them were random tidbits I spotted amidst my walks about in exploration of what has changed.
I began a recollection of memories as we made our way through it's quiet landmarks at wee hours of the morning.

It really was the best opportunity for me to take time marveling at it's dimly lit architecture. The shadowing corners of beautiful structures; highlighted by the occasional touch of street lighting.
.... it is silent around us.
Our footsteps echo through the stone paths... I break the silence with brief continuous clicking from the shutter of my SLR.
I look up at Jo through my camera lenses pressed almost permanently close to my face..he smiles at me knowingly. I reciprocate by capturing him in a photograph. Timeless in my heart, forever in my memory.It's just me, Jo and the city; on a Sunday.. just the way I remember it in 2006.
Nothing beyond the size of my camera and the extra pounds I've gained from America has changed at all. *laughs*
Happy anniversary Jo. You're another reason why I love this city.