VPN Remote Desktop

Also, I have no problems remoting my computers @ work.  And my friend doesn't have a problem remoting them either from where he's @.

Does this help you?
https://www.experts-exchange.com/questions/21107789/VPN-PPTP-NAT-Can't-see-local-network.html?query=vpn+remote+network+can't+ping&clearTAFilter=true
https://www.experts-exchange.com/questions/20958578/VPN-Client-can't-see-IP-on-local-network.html?query=vpn+remote+network+can't+ping&clearTAFilter=true

Or maybe this?  
https://www.experts-exchange.com/questions/20933869/Need-help-establishing-VPN-Tunnel-with-Linksys-can't-ping-nor-see-remote-computers.html?query=vpn+remote+can't+ping&clearTAFilter=true

If not, hopefully others better versed in this will be here soon to help you more directly.

I would say the easiest thing to do is for him to add your username to his administrator's group.  You both log in under your user ID.  He tells you his IP address and you do a remote desktop to that IP address.  Make sure remote desktop is enabled on his computer and if he is using XP, SP2, then make sure the Remote Desktop is checked under Exceptions in the Firewall Settings.

Another alternative, is to go directly to his public IP address.  IF he has a router, the router would have to redirect port 3389 to his PC for this to work.

What type VPN? Using Microsoft PPTP client? Other?
Agree with Sam. If your friend is behind a router, simply have him redirect TCP port 3389 to his private IP address, and then use the Remote desktop client to connect to his public IP..

I agree with lrmoore , you should redirect TCP port 3389 to his private IP address , i have tried it  and it works fine even , behind the firewall or routers , i want to add this tips :if he is connecting by local area Network then he go to control panel ==> windows firewall ==> advanced ==> Local area connection ==>settings ==>from services ==> select the services that running that running in your network that internet users can access ==> check on incoming connection VPN (L2TP) if you are using this protocol or ==> check on incoming connection VPN (PPTP) if you are using this protocol .

Some firewalls outgoing block certain ports, expecially 3389

I have my home RDP on port 22 (external, still 3389 on the host)

I will ask for a share for the time and solutions presented.

Count me out of any points here, please.... and best wishes to all.
":0) Asta

I believe a split between astaec and myself are appropriate for the time, effort and troubleshooting expended to try to help the poster to resolve his problems.  It is at minimum a small reward for those efforts and expertise and keeps the motivation running to expend time and effort on other questions and topics.

Thank you, samccarthy and TheLearnedOne for your follow ups here.  Sorry for the delayed response, still fighting a flu bug.  I'd also hope to keep this in the PAQ, the information provided should have been helpful in resolving this issue.  As always, this collaboration site benefits when the Asker remains active and provides ongoing feedback to help achieve the goal.

Happy new year all,
":0) Asta