Carmen and Tessy's Land Below The Wind

Eye on Malaysia pics

2008-05-10T12:38:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Here's our pics from our holidays in Kuala Lumpur, going up the ferris wheel called Eye on Malaysia, Tasik Titiwangsa, which was only put up during Visit Malaysia Year 2007-2008.

TESSY: I was terrified as I'm scared of height. Can see most of Kuala Lumpur from up there including the Twin Towers.

CARMEN: I'm not scared at all. I like going up the ferris wheel.

TESSY: I hope you enjoy our photos.

Happy Chinese New Year!

2008-01-04T17:32:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Have a very Happy Chinese New Year everyone!!!

CARMEN: Tessy, we not yet even finish writing our blog.

TESSY: Sorry. I don't know what to say.....

CARMEN: Well I know what to say,....

TESSY: I know what to say!!

CARMEN: We are sorry because we are too busy to write for our blog.

TESSY: HEY!!!!! I was going to say that, Carmen.

CARMEN: Sorry.

TESSY: That is okay.

TESSY: We are also sorry because we skip the months.

CARMEN: We got to go now. We need to pack our school bags.

We saw an aquarium in a universiti

2007-09-25T16:55:00.001+08:00

CARMEN: Last Sunday, we went to visit an aquarium center at Universiti Malaysia Sabah. It is near the Borneo Marine Research Institute complex adjunction to the Sepanggar Bay area.

TESSY: Yeah, a big one.

CARMEN: It is not big, it is just a normal one. Anyway, it is actually called a museum. It has one of the best marine aquarium facility in Borneo today.

TESSY: Yeah, the place is called the Aquarium and Marine Museum UMS.

CARMEN: Yeah, I saw many different corals and fishes.

TESSY: I saw Dorry from "Finding Nemo" in the aquarium.

CARMEN: I also learn that corals are endangered because of fish bombing.

TESSY: Yeah, because of that, the law said no to fish bombing.

CARMEN: Thank goodness, we must save our corals......

TESSY: The museum is a great place to spent a day and learn about everything marine in Borneo.

CARMEN: Do visit the museum if you have a chance, ok?

Our exams are coming!!!

2007-09-22T14:30:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Our exams are coming at around October.

TESSY: Yeah right we, we, we, better study hard this time.

CARMEN: So that means no computer.

TESSY: Oh, anyway I got a better hobby...

CARMEN: And what is it?

TESSY: Swimming.

CARMEN: Mine too.

TESSY: I saw you make a new friend, whats her name?

CARMEN: Her name is Sandy, and i also played with Jasmine, my old friend.

TESSY: Better off the computer before daddy comes back from the office.

Tessy passed her Grade 1 piano exam

2007-09-01T19:36:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Today, I got my Grade 1 piano result, and I get 111 over 150, which is pass.

CARMEN: Congratulation Tessy.

TESSY: Yeah..., but I did not do as well as you did last year. What did you score?

CARMEN: 138 out of 150, a distinction. But it's okay Tess, at least you passed grade 1 too?

TESSY: I guess so. I saw a some of the other piano students only scored 50, 60 or 90 only.

CARMEN: They failed and have to repeat grade 1 again. You don't have to, Tessy?

TESSY: Yeah.......

Celebrating 50 Years of Merdeka!

2007-08-31T16:18:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Today is Merdeka Day (or Independence Day) in Malaysia. Malaysia is celebrating..., Malaysia is celebrating..., 50 years of Merdeka.

CARMEN: Yeah...., hurray...., Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!

TESSY: Actually, it's 44 years since Malaysia was formed with Sabah and Sarawak, but..., but..., but..., it was 50 years ago that West Malaysia or Malaya then, became independent in 1957.

CARMEN: Oh..., cool... How do you know that?

TESSY: Daddy told me.

CARMEN: So is it 44 or 50 years of Merdeka?

TESSY: I don't know..., 44 or 50 years.

CARMEN: But everyone is saying that it's 50 years of Merdeka.

TESSY: Nah..., I think it should be 44 years but..., but..., I'm not sure why they are celebrating 50 years of Merdeka.

CARMEN: Oh Tessy, wow! You know more about Malaysia than I do.

TESSY: Well, I guess it doesn't matter how many years they are celebrating as long as..., as long as..., we know the whole history.

The Whole Month at School

2007-07-01T17:29:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: I am so........., happy at school!

TESSY: I am not.

Carmen: Why?

TESSY: Cause..., My two best friends are not friends for a..., for a..., for a..., moment then best friends then..., then..., then..., not best friends again. The same thing almost everyday!

CARMEN: So?

TESSY: They..., they...,they..., are fighting over me.

CARMEN: Don't feel sad, be happy like me. Also, mommy's birthday is coming.

TESSY: Are you going to make her a birthday card, Carmen?

CARMEN: Of course, duh.....

Kuala Lumpur Vacation: Day 3

2007-06-10T16:25:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Wow!, it is the last day of our KL vacation.

TESSY: Yeah. Before we...we,..., we went back , we went to take a ride on the KL Monorail. It is 50km a..., a..., a way to a few towns like..., like..., like..., to Rawang and Seremban.

CARMEN: I know, Rawang, Seremban, Sentul and Port Klang.

TESSY: Did you know the KL Monoral is connected in..., in..., in..., the middle of the bridge to Sungei Wang Plaza.

CARMEN: We wanted to go to Zoo Negara but we don't have time.

TESSY: Hey, I also bought my..., my..., my..., littlest pet shop (short for: LPS). It is a very cute digital pet. Well, I have the hamster for my LPS. A..., A...,A..., very cute one too. But I didn't get to buy the puppy, the most cutest one as..., as..., as they'd ran out of stock.

CARMEN: Tessy was excited.

TESSY: Not just that, we also...,we also..., we also..., bought some cool jeans and nice stuff.

CARMEN: We did some last minute shopping with mom and dad.

TESSY: Cool, rite Carmen?

CARMEN: Tessy almost got air sick.

TESSY: Untill I relax a bit I..., I..., I..., got better.

CARMEN: Our flight leaves in the evening and we reach Kota Kinabalu, Sabah at night with good memories of Kuala Lumpur.

TESSY: Yeah, we had fun but..., but..., there's no place like home.

CARMEN: KL has been a great memory for the both of us.

TESSY: Yeah, right and it's back to school again.

CARMEN: Yeah...... I love school.

Kuala Lumpur Vacation: Day 2

2007-06-09T16:22:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: On the 2nd day, we went to Lake Titiwangsa, to ride the Eye of Malaysia, the tallest portable ferris wheel in Malaysia, which is only introduced during Visit Malaysia Year 2007.

TESSY: Yeah..., it goes up 60 metres high and we got..., we got..., a great view of Kuala Lumpur.

CARMEN: After that, we went to visit the tallest tower in Malaysia.

TESSY: The tallest tower of Malaysia is...is...is Petronas Twin Tower, which was the world's tallest building until 2004

CARMEN: Then, we visited the Kuala Lumpur Tower or Menara KL.

TESSY: Yeah, Menara KL stands at..., at..., at..., 515m above sea level.

CARMEN: Next...., we went shopping......

TESSY: Yeah, we..., we..., we..., went to Lot-10. Lot-10 is a shopping complex situated within central Kuala Lumpur’s hottest new shopping and...and...and entertainment district, Bintang Walk. Club wear, art books, the latest track and every watch under the...., the..., the..., sun can be found at Lot 10. Not to mention all the must-haves at..., at..., at..., Isetan department store, the mall's prime resident. There are so many..., so many..., designer labels there that you can shop from. Lot 10, which is..., which is..., which is..., the "conspicuous green giant" is linked to..., to..., to..., Sungei Wang Plaza by..., by..., by..., an overhead bridge. We thoroughly enjoy ourselves with..., with..., with..., never ending shopping at Lot 10 and Sungei Wang Plaza with mommy.

CARMEN: Hey!!!!! I suppose to say that!!

TESSY: Sorry............

CARMEN: Lot 10 has a nice green color too. Click here for more info of Lot 10.

TESSY: Yeah, I..., I..., I..., like Isetan department store. I think it's cool.

CARMEN: Shop till you drop there!

TESSY: We also slept so well on the second night as we were so tired.

Kuala Lumpur Vacation: Day 1

2007-06-09T16:19:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Horay! we went to KL on 1-3 June 2007.

TESSY: We..., we..., we..., we went to an 2.5-hour flight.

CARMEN: Duh..., we know it, Tessy.

TESSY: Hey! I am getting it. We stayed at..., at..., at..., Coronade Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

CARMEN: Yeah! We also went to Cosmo’s World Theme Park at Berjaya KL Times Square.

TESSY: Yeah! I..., I..., I HATE the Dizzy Izzy at Cosmo's World

CARMEN: It is also the the largest indoor theme park in Malaysia!

TESSY: I still HATE it. Besides, there is a lot more like..., like..., like..., ah,the Spinning Orbit the..the..the Crazy Bus a..., a..., a..., the Robo Crash. That is all, I can't remenber the others.

CARMEN: So, I can remember Ooort's Express,The Botanic Drive, DNA Mixer, and Space Attack.

TESSY: I am gona sort this out, the Spinning Orbit, Ooort's Express, Space Attack, DNA Mixer is..., is..., is..., in “Galaxy Station” and the..., the..., the..., Crazy Bus, Robo Crash, and..., and..., and..., the Botanic Drive is in..., in..., in..., the “Fantasy Garden”.

CARMEN: We were so tired that we slept so well at night.

Tessy's Birthday at Secret Recipe

2007-05-13T18:32:00.000+08:00

TESSY: This year, my 9th birthday on 12 May, was a family-only affair with Carmen and mum and dad. We celebrated at a new Secret Recipe chain of restaurants at..., at..., Warisan Square downtown KK.

CARMEN: Tessy didn't want to be embarassed like I did. But it's ok Tess..., sometimes it's so boring celebrating quietly. Like last year, Tessy's birthday was at Marina Sutera with a bunch of cousins and relatives after a train ride. A nice pic of her I added below...

TESSY: Nah..., I like quiet. Also..., we just finished our exams and I felt..., I felt..., so exhausted.

CARMEN: But I like the caramel cheese cake special at Secret Recipe that they decorated as a birthday cake for you.

TESSY: Me too. I think..., I think..., they are famous for their yummy cheese cake. They got a lot of never-told recipes for you. Anyway, the special cake is also for mum as it's Mother's Day today too in Malaysia - Happy Mother's Day to all mums.

CARMEN: So, if you are into cheese cake like we do, just visit KK's Secret Recipe at C-G-07 & C-01-07 Block C, Ground Floor & First Floor, Warisan Square, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Tel: 088-448111. Opening Hours: 11am to 11pm daily.

TESSY: And oh..., we were told that the kitchen close at 9.45pm - meaning no more dishes will be served. Only cakes and beverages will be served till closing. I'm sure..., I'm sure..., you and your family will enjoy it.

Carmen's 10th Birthday

2007-04-19T20:29:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Celebrated my 10th Birthday on 18 April. I hit double figure now. The horrors...

TESSY: Well Carmen, it's time to grow up.

CARMEN: Hey Tessy...., I am grown up. You are still the baby of the family.

TESSY: Anyway, Carmen had two birthday celebrations. Both at..., both at..., fast food restaurants.

CARMEN: Yeah..., bummer. On 18th, we celebrated at Pizza Hut and they gave a complimentary pizza birthday cake - not the normal cake, the harden one where you can't even poke a candle in. But I am happy although how I wish Sabrina was still here in Sabah.

TESSY: Then yesterday, we..., we..., celebrated at KFC with some of our cousins.

CARMEN: And it was a bit embarassing since I'm already 10. Mum placed some birthday deco for all to see and I feel like a baby when they sang Happy Birthday. Last year was much more 'private' and 'luxurious'.

TESSY: Carmen's 2006 Birthday bash was at @mosphere.

CARMEN: Anyway, here's an old photo taken last year. Sure brings back some memories...

Sabrina and Sean leaving the Land Below the Wind

2007-04-02T20:09:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Ahhh..., I'm gonna miss Sabrina and Sean. They flew back to America this morning. We didn't sent them off at the airport coz we had school.

TESSY: We had a farewell dinner at..., at..., a restaurant at Pacific Sutera last night.

CARMEN: But we did not feel sad or anything like that. We just play and play. Our other cousins Amanda and Adrian were also there, and they were also with us in the afternoon yesterday when we had lunch at Salut Seafood Restaurant.

TESSY: Salut has better food but..., but..., Pacific is air-conditioned. But who cares. We just want to..., we just want to..., hang around with Sabrina.

CARMEN: But it went too quickly. Before I realised, we were back at home on our bed and feeling so tired. It had been a very tiring week or so but I'll always remember forever..., the time we got to meet and hang out with our American cousins. Hope to be able to see them again very soon. I just love to hang out with Sabrina.

TESSY: Hopefully, we can save enough to..., to..., visit them in..., in..., America before we are teenagers.

CARMEN: Hey, much better if we can meet in our teens. Then, we can go shoppinggg...

TESSY: Dream on, Carmen.

Dining at Equitorial Restaurant

2007-03-31T20:06:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last night, we brought our cousins, Sean and Sabrina, and their family to have dinner at a new restaurant, Equitorial Restaurant,at Tanjung Aru Plaza, not far from KK City.

TESSY: The food was delicious, especially..., especially..., the pork leg, one of the..., one of the..., restaurant's specialties.

CARMEN: I did not paid too much attention to the food coz I was busy playing with Sabrina. Even Sean joined in with the girls. I guess he has got over his shyness.

TESSY: And boy..., was he hyper.

CARMEN: Actually, the Equatorial Restaurant is famous for its crocodile meat, which I guess, they obtain the meat from the Tuaran Crocodile Farm. But we did not order that. The grown-ups really enjoyed the food. Uncle Dennis looked pretty delighted with the sweet and sour pork.

TESSY: The restaurant looks really..., looks really..., neat and comfy.

CARMEN: Give it a try when you are in Kota Kinabalu. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Sabrina's Birthday

2007-03-29T21:49:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Sabrina celebrated her 8th Birthday today, in Sabah. I think that's cool.

TESSY: Didn't do anything fancy tough.

CARMEN: Yupp, coz Sabrina just wanna hang around the resort in the swimming pool. That's her day and she calls all the shots.

TESSY: Really? If it was me, I want to celebrate my..., celebrate my..., birthday in the library.

CARMEN: Huh...?

TESSY: Never mind Carmen.

CARMEN: Anyway, I just hope Sabrina will always remember her 8th Birthday..., in the Land Below the Wind, far far away from Oregon, and spending it with her Sabah cousins.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

2007-03-26T18:36:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Yesterday we took Sabrina to visit the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, about 45 minutes drive from KK City, along the old Penampang-Papar road. Our niece, Te'a also tagged along.

TESSY: Sean didn't come coz he is shy...

CARMEN: The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park just opened is door to visitors and not really completed yet, but there are still a lot of things to see.

TESSY: It's like..., it's like..., a mini zoo and wildlife education centre. We really..., we really..., learnt a lot.

CARMEN: What animals were on displayed? Let's see...

TESSY: The orangutans, proboscis monkeys...,

CARMEN: And..., deers, rhinos, tigers, clouded leopards, ostriches, sun bears, gibbons, civets, and birds.

TESSY: The Aviary was great. There were a lot of..., a lot of..., big birds that..., that..., nearly attacked us.

CARMEN: Oh..., and how can we forget the elephant. We rode on an elephant (for RM1 each). Sabrina and I rode first, and Tessy and Te'a after us, and it was so much fun.

TESSY: It was cool... We went up on a much bigger elephant before, at the..., at the..., circus few years ago, but.., but..., we never took a ride until..., until..., yesterday.

CARMEN: And Te'a got horned by the goat too just before we rode on the elephant.

TESSY: Yeah..., she poke her finger up the goat's nose. Serves her right, eh Carmen?

CARMEN: You have to excuse her Tess. She's only 4 years old.

TESSY: But it was so hot.....

CARMEN: Sabrina got sun burnt. She was so red, especially after spending the whole morning at the pool. But the important thing is, she had the fun of her life, riding the elephant for the first time, and enjoy the mini rainforest and man-made river stream, and squashing the rubber with an old rubber roller at the Botanical Information Centre. Cool...

TESSY: And got a good tan too.

CARMEN: Tessy also had a crush on a young boy named Sean also - same name as Sabrina's brother.

TESSY: Carrr....

CARMEN: It's ok Tessy.

TESSY: We suppose to blog about Lok Kawi Wildlife Park here...

CARMEN: Hemmm, anyway, there is really a lot of things to see, learn and do at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park. We spent more than 4 hours there, and the entrance fee is only RM5 for children (RM10 for adult). Non-Malaysians have to pay twice as much, but both Sabrina and Te'a, being Americans, looked more locals than foreigners. So, they got in cheap.

TESSY: The place's so big and we walked..., walked..., like for 10 miles or maybe more. I was worn out and hungry too but..., but..., it was really fun and..., and..., exciting.

CARMEN: The elephant ride is available at 11am and 3pm, and on weekends only - although the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is opened every day.

TESSY: We are sure you will have..., have..., a great family vacation outing there, just like we did.

Our American cousins, Sean and Sabrina, here in Sabah

2007-03-24T21:51:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Earlier in the afternoon, we went to the airport to pick up our cousins from the States, Sean (age 10) and Sabrina (age 7). They are visiting the Land Below the Wind for the first time. Their grandparents (Uncle Dennis and Aunty Anna) and mom (Debbie) are here too. They are staying at Magellan Sutera Harbour Resort. It was a cool moment as we met for the first time, and far cooler, we can get along straight away with Sabrina.

TESSY: Sean was shy...

CARMEN: Their mom, daddy's first cousin, is a "Chirish" (Chinese plus Irish - that's what she called herself), so, Sabrina and Sean is a quarter Chinese.

TESSY: Quarter Chinese, Carmen? We don't call..., don't call..., ourselves half Chinese.

CARMEN: So...? "Chisun"? "Chizan"? "Duchi"? "Kadachi"? "Kachi"? "Kuachi"??? Your pick.

TESSY: We are simply Sino-Kadazandusun, Carmen.

CARMEN: Arghhh..., ok! I give up!

'Chasing Lions' during Chinese New Year

2007-02-22T18:39:00.001+08:00

CARMEN: We'd just celebrated Chinese New Year here in the Land Below the Wind. Being half-Chinese, we also joined in the celebration.

TESSY: Yeah, only half-celebration, not..., not..., full-celebration. Ha..., ha..., ha...

CARMEN: Tessy..., that's not really funny, ok?

TESSY: Just kiddinggggg, Carmen.

CARMEN: Never mind. I think Tessy is still excited as we "chased" the lions during Chinese New Year.

TESSY: Huh...?

CARMEN: Just metaphorically speaking...

TESSY: Boy, you are deep, Carmen. I'm sure..., I'm sure..., you learnt that word from TV. What's that?

CARMEN: Well, during Chinese New Year here, besides the public holidays, there are fireworks, and pows (or red envelopes), city celebrations and decorations, and also lions and unicorns (dragon dance is very rare here) visiting houses and shopping complexes - not the real ones ok? just dances by the troupe in costumes.

TESSY: And..., and..., yummy food too.

CARMEN: Patience, Tessy. Anyway, one of the best places to see lion dance is actually at the 5-star resorts or hotels. This year, we went to Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort on the first day of Chinese New Year (18 Feb) to witness the lion dance (more info on Lion Dance).

TESSY: There were..., there were..., eight lions...

CARMEN: Yeah..., loud gongs and drums, and a lot of fireworks. Actually, loud firecrackers are banned in Malaysia, except in hotels and malls I guess. The 8 lions started their "ritual" ceremony at the entrance of the resort. From there, they go to the front desks, then, to the restaurants, and pubs, and so on. As the lions go very quickly from one place to the other, we have to "chase" them. That's what I meant by "chasing lions".

TESSY: The resort also serve..., also serve..., "Yee Sang", a raw fish salad dish (normally only served during Chinese New Year), for free but..., but..., we did not eat since..., since..., we don't know how to.

CARMEN: But "chasing lions" was more than great, right Tess?

TESSY: Yupp. you can say that again, Carmen.

CARMEN: Actually, we supposed to see the lion dance at Magellan Sutera Harbour Resort on the 2nd day of Chinese New Year, but got the time table wrong and missed it.

TESSY: That's fine I think. Ended up having..., having..., hi-tea at the..., at the..., Marina Club instead.

CARMEN: I know you don't really like the loud gongs and drums and firecrackers, Tess. Only the food.

TESSY: Of course...

CARMEN: That's it then, for our Chinese New Year outing. If you ever plan to visit Sabah, come during the Chinese New Year, and I bet you will have as much fun as we did, especially if you are our age or younger.

TESSY: We guarantee...

Tuaran Crocodile Farm - Crocodile Show

2007-01-23T12:16:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Below are some long-coming photos of our trip to the Tuaran Crocodile Farm, about 32km from KK city, nearby Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort and Nexus Karambunai. Some pics from the Crocodile Show. Two shows per week from Monday to Saturday starting at 11am and 3pm. On Sunday, there are 3 shows starting at 11am 1pm and 3pm.

TESSY: The show is really fun and..., and..., funny. We really..., we really..., enjoyed it. Here they are:

Entrance to the Croc farm - us with our cousin, Darren

The Croc Show - what a huge jaw the croc has?

Dancing with the croc - yeah..., coz it's small he dare to do it

Brushing the Croc teeth? No wonder they looked shinny

Back to school

2007-01-03T17:59:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Today's the first day at school for us this year. I'm now in Prmary 4 and Tessy in Primary 3.

TESSY: Yeah..., and I like it.

CARMEN: Hemmm? I was soooo sleepy. Have to get up at 5.15 am this morning.

TESSY: Me too. My first..., my first..., morning session and I enjoyed it. So..., so..., cooling. No more..., no more..., afternoon sun.

CARMEN: Well, I guess so, Tessy. Welcome to morning session and early wake-ups :)

Happy New Year 2007

2007-01-01T18:09:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Happy New Year to you and I hope that 2007 will be a great year for you.

TESSY: Yeah, me too...

CARMEN: You know what? For the first time, both Tessy and I stayed up till midnight for the New Year, and it was cool.

TESSY: Not really, Car... There were less fireworks this year.

CARMEN: Ahhh, maybe it was raining too much the last few days.

TESSY: Yeah..., maybe.

CARMEN: But it's still cool. At least we didn't fall asleep like we used to do the last past years.

TESSY: So...?

CARMEN: Tessy..., Arghhh...

Christmas at Bella Italia

2006-12-12T10:36:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: I just got an email from Bella Italia, and I guess I better post this, for Marcello...

TESSY: Yupp, you better, Carmen. For the compli..., compli..., complimentary deserts the other night.

CARMEN: Well, check it out below and hope you'll make a date with Marcello this Christmas.

Christmas festive season is just around the corner… Why not spending your Christmas celebration with your family and loves one @ Bella Italia.. And make this season with a momentous, joyous and unforgettable event.

Chef Marcello also has created a few new dishes to introduce you especially for this season. There are also an amazing lucky draw prices to be won.

Come & Celebrate with us…

Ciao.

Christmas Eve Dinner

Veglione di Natale

RM120++per person

Starter

Medaglioni di polenta tarragnia

Yellow flour polenta served with cheese

Soup

Cremino di Funghi

Cream of mushroom soup topped with crispy crotons

Main Course

Agnelotto d’agnello e funghi

Homemade pasta filled with lamb meat and ricotta cheese

finished with gravy and mushroom sauce

Bistecca di Salmone

Baked salmon steak

Served with a creamy mustard sauce

Dessert

Panna cotta

Vanilla flavored dome topped with baked almonds

and caramel sauce

Tea or coffee will be served at the end of your meal

=============================================

Christmas Day Lunch

Pranzo di Natale

RM60++per person

Starter

Funghi Trifolati

Sautéed Shitake mushrooms trifoliate with bacon

and accompanied with garlic bread

Soup

Passata di Verdure

Vegetable soup

Main Course

Bistecca di Salmone

Baked salmon steak

Served with a lemon and capers sauce

Arrosto Natalizio

Roast beef served with beef juice

Dessert

Fantasia Marcello

=============================================

New Year’s Eve Dinner

Veglione di Capodanno

RM120++per person

Starter

Terrina di Capesante

Baked terrine escalope in light sauce tomato

Soup

Zuppetta alla Pugliese

Fresh clams with sea bass julienne in light

tomato broth

Pasta

Agnolotti d’Aaragosta

Home made pasta filled with lobster meat and ricotta cheese,

finished with a light tomato sauce

Main Course

Merluzzo alla meditterania

Baked cod fish served with capers and parsley sauce

Agnello con funghi e spinaci

Braised boneless rack lamb with mushroom and beef jus

served with spinach and potato

Dessert

Tiramisu’

Soaked lady finger biscuit with espresso coffee topped

with creamy mascarpone cheese and cocoa

Tea or coffee will be served at the end of your meal

pn: All main courses are served with market vegetables and potatoes of the day.

*For more info,reservation & ticket purchase, please call to the restaurant @ 088-313366.

*All prices are quoted 5% government tax and 10% service charge.

* your truly Italian taste *

Tel: 088-313366 Fax: 088-240401

Boring Holidays

2006-12-08T19:26:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We are having our year-end school holidays now, and it had been real boring.

TESSY: Yeah..., didn't go to any vacation again this year.

CARMEN: Mom and dad are both real busy again during the end of the year. We suppose to go to Kuala Lumpur or Mulu, but now it doesn't look like it.

TESSY: How come mom and dad are always busy, Carmen?

CARMEN: Maybe, they are not? Maybe, it's my punishment for not doing so well in my final examination?

TESSY: But what about me? I got no. 4 in class...

CARMEN: I thought dad ever said that only if both of us did well in our studies then we can get a present or go on a vacation?

TESSY: That's not fair, you know.

CARMEN: Nahhh..., I'm just kidding Tessy. You've got your present already, right?

TESSY: Yeah..., that's true.

CARMEN: I guess they are "really" busy then.

TESSY: Bummer.....

Bella Italia Pizzeria Ristorante Cafe

2006-12-03T18:16:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last night, we went for dinner at a new Italian restaurant called Bella Italia Pizzeria Ristorante Cafe to celebrate mom and dad's wedding anniversary.

TESSY: Yeah..., the ristorante or..., or..., restaurant, is at Jesselton Hotel at..., at..., Gaya Street, in downtown..., in downtown..., Kota Kinabalu.

CARMEN: I had the delicious Ravioli Lobster (or lasagna in lobster sauce).

TESSY: I'd the Costolette Di..., Di..., Agnello.

CARMEN: Sounds nice, right? But Tessy just had the lamp chop, Italian style.

TESSY: But it tasted very very nice.

CARMEN: Mom and dad shared Black Cod Fish dish together.

TESSY: And for desert..., we had..., we had..., the Tiramisu. I didn't like it a lot.

CARMEN: But I do. And Tess, do you know what's the best part of the dinner?

TESSY: Nope. What, Carmen?

CARMEN: The restaurant is owned by our cousin's Francesca's parents. Francesca's daddy, Marcello, an Italiano, is the chief chef of the place. And, when he saw us, he gave us two more complimentary deserts. I ate the Panna Cotta (don't ask me to describe it, ok?) and Tessy...,

TESSY: I..., I..., finally got the Fantasia Maria, a very sweet and..., and..., warm chocolate pudding.

CARMEN: Do they have a Fantasia Barino I wonder...

TESSY: Carmen..., no joking around. But..., but..., I saw that there is..., there is..., a Fantasia Marcello on the menu, you know?

CARMEN: Must be a cool desert like Francesca's dad I think. He looks so rugged and he has a great Italian accent.

TESSY: I think he looks a bit scary.

CARMEN: Why, Tess?

TESSY: Dunno. And he always say "Ciao", for some reason.

CARMEN: Is that hello in Italian, Tessy?

TESSY: Dunno. He said..., he said..., it could mean both hi and bye.

CARMEN: But I thought "hello" is Buon giorno in Italian.

TESSY: I guess both words also..., also..., can be used.

CARMEN: We all love the dishes, which are very well presented, and the service too. So, we would surely recommend to anyone who is looking for great Italian food in Kota Kinabalu.

TESSY: Mom and dad said it was very romantic too.

CARMEN: If you go dine there, just tell Marcello that you found his restaurant through our blog. Maybe, he'll give you a complimentary Fantasia Marcello. You'll never know.

First Coffee Bean, then SF Coffee, now Starbucks

2006-11-20T14:33:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Tessy..., do you think there are a lots of coffee drinkers here in Sabah?

TESSY: Why?

CARMEN: Coz..., we have so many "coffee shops" today.

TESSY: Huh? In Sabah..., in Sabah..., the eateries are called..., are called..., "coffee shops".

CARMEN: I know, Tess. I'm not talking about those ones.

TESSY: What do you mean, Carmen?

CARMEN: First, Coffee Bean opened their outlet few years ago. This year, San Francisco Coffee opened theirs, and now StarBucks is in Kota Kinabalu.

TESSY: Oh I see. Yeah, we..., we..., visited the new StarBucks at..., at..., Warisan Square (near Promenade and Le Meridian hotels) yesterday. I like their..., like their..., Chocolate Chip Caramel drink.

CARMEN: And San Francisco Coffee just started their 2nd branch at Warisan Square too. We are getting very American, rite, Tessy? Maybe, it's not about the coffee after all.

TESSY: Maybe..., maybe..., it is just fashion...

CARMEN: You mean the "trend"?

TESSY: Yupp.

CARMEN: Personally, I like San Francisco Coffee outlet better, especially the one at Tanjung Aru beach. More cosy. More relaxing. And I like their chicken pie too.

TESSY: Hmmm, for me..., they are just ok. I don't drink..., drink..., coffee, and you don't too. And..., and..., they are so expensive.

CARMEN: Good places to relax and chill out, though, I must admit.

TESSY: Yeah, if you are a grown-up.

Taking a break

2006-10-18T16:09:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We'll be taking a break from blogging for awhile..., until our final examinations are over I guess.

TESSY: Yes. Our exams..., our exams..., will be on the..., the..., first week of November.

CARMEN: I guess our blog will be boring - no update.

TESSY: Never mind Car..., exams is more important.

CARMEN: You can say that again, Tessy.

TESSY: Never mind Car..., exams is more important.

CARMEN: Huh?

What a Sick September

2006-09-29T19:01:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: September has been a terrible month for both of us. I was sick with flu, fever and acute tonsilitis (I think that's spelt correctly?) for the whole of last week. I didn't go to school for 5 days straight. Only went to school this Monday.

TESSY: Then, when Carmen got well, she gave me..., she gave me..., her flu virus. And..., and..., I was sick the..., the..., whole week this week. I didn't go to..., go to..., school since Tuesday. I was feeling..., feeling..., so drowsy all week.

CARMEN: You are feeling pretty well now, right Tess?

TESSY: Yes I think. No more fever.

CARMEN: What a bore, eh? Not only stayed at home, but also stayed on our bed.

TESSY: You can say that again, Carmen.

CARMEN: And our final examination is coming in two weeks. I hope we'll be fit enough to study. Even now, I'm a bit exhausted.

TESSY: We can..., we can..., only try our best.

CARMEN: Yupp. But I'm thankful that I'd got better.

TESSY: Me too...

Crikey tribute to the Crocodile Hunter

2006-09-11T18:45:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: It was a week ago that we heard the bad news about Steve Irwin.

TESSY: Yesterday, there was a..., there was a..., Crocodile Hunter marathon at..., at..., Animal Planet's channel on TV.

CARMEN: And we felt so sad...

TESSY: Steve was a great block, and a..., and a..., wildlife warrior.

CARMEN: He taught us so much about the wildlife, environment, and the snakes and crocodiles, and a lot more. He can also makes us laugh while learning. He brings wildlife to our living room. We'll miss him very much.

TESSY: Yeah..., sob.

CARMEN: But I can't stop feeling bad for Bindi and Bob. I just hope they will continue the good work of Steve with their mom to save the wildlife and nature. Without them, we'll be in real trouble.

TESSY: I hope they will come to..., come to..., Sabah to look at the consertion of Danum Valley and Maliau Basin. I don't think Steve ever..., ever..., went visited the Land Below The Wind?

CARMEN: Consertion, Tess? You mean CONSERVATION?

TESSY: Yupp, that's a handful.

CARMEN: Anyway, may the Croc hunter rest in peace. God bless his soul!

Much needed break

2006-09-04T17:46:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We are having a 3-day school break starting today as the Primary 6 students are having their final government exams.

TESSY: It's a much needed break, you know, Car..., even though we'd a..., a..., one-week mid-year school holiday about..., about..., just 2 weeks ago.

CARMEN: Yupp. Actually, our niece from America, Tea (pronounced Tia), had been staying with us during the holidays. She's only 3 years old and can be a handful.

TESSY: Very stressful sometimes.

CARMEN: But, she's so cute...

TESSY: And fun to play with.

CARMEN: Also, both of us have not been feeling too well lately. I'd a sore throat.

TESSY: And I'd a fever.

CARMEN: I hope the 3-day break will do us good Tess.

TESSY: Yeah..., and don't forget what dad said...

CARMEN: I know..., we have to start catching up with our studies too :(

Carmen scores a distinction in piano

2006-09-02T18:02:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Congratulation Carmen, for getting a..., getting a..., distinction in your..., in your..., Grade 1 piano exams. Well done.

CARMEN: Thanks Tessy. It was a piece of cake...

TESSY: Really?

CARMEN: Nahhhh..., just kidding. It was all hard work, you know?

TESSY: I know. You practice a lot.

CARMEN: And oh..., I have a natural talent too :)

TESSY: Yeah..., right!

CARMEN: Both of us have it, Tessy.

TESSY: Oh..., I see. The gene right?

CARMEN: Yes..., the musical genes :)

National Day 2006

2006-08-31T09:33:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Today is the 49th Birthday of our country's independence (or Merdeka).

TESSY: Or 43rd Birthday for Malaysia.

CARMEN: Huh? A bit complicated there, Tess?

TESSY: According to the history book, Malaya become independent in..., in..., 1957. But Sabah formed Malaysia..., formed Malaysia..., together with..., together with..., Malaya, Sarawak, and..., and..., Singapore in 1963.

CARMEN: Whatever!?

TESSY: Duh... forget it, Carmen. Just celebrate Merdeka day today.

Carmen's Piano Grade 1 Examination

2006-08-03T18:45:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: I did not attend class today as I have to take a Piano Grade 1 exam at Hyatt Hotel downtown Kota Kinabalu.

TESSY: How did you go, Carmen?

CARMEN: I think I did well, but I was soooo nervous, you know? Lots of butterflies inside my stomach.

TESSY: Was mom and..., and..., teacher Helen with you inside the examination room?

CARMEN: Nope. I was alone with the examiner with the UK I think. No other people allowed to be inside the exam room.

TESSY: I know you will pass easily, Carmen, as you can play..., can play..., the piano so well already.

CARMEN: Thanks Tessy. Crossing my finger.

Accommodation at Mesilau National Park

2006-07-30T18:31:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Here, we are having fun underneath our..., our..., accommodation at Mesilau National Park.

CARMEN: Isn't Mesilau Nature Resort a very eco-cool place to stay overnight?

TESSY: Dad complaint about the..., about the..., steep and high stairs to take to go up..., go up..., to our "chalet", and mom said the place at night..., at night..., is very eerie...

CARMEN: But it was fun for us, and I guess that's what important.

Overnight at Mesilau National Park

2006-07-29T18:05:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: After resting, we walk the plank way to our accommodation at Mesilau National Park.

TESSY: The accommodation is called Mesilau Nature Resort.

CARMEN: It is managed by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, which is under the Sutera Harbour management.

TESSY: Cool..., eh?

Taking a rest at Mesilau National Park

2006-07-28T18:01:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: After the walk at Mesilau National Park, we took a rest at a shade.

TESSY: And also..., also..., to get a shade from the..., from the... drizzle.

CARMEN: The air there is so fresh and cooling.

TESSY: Yupp. It is a place anyone can relax..., can relax..., with nature.

Strolling around Mesilau National Park

2006-07-27T17:50:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Here we are strolling around Mesilau National Park in its natural environment.

TESSY: It was so..., cooling.

CARMEN: It rains a bit that day.

TESSY: But it was real fun, though.

Another shot at Mesilau National Park

2006-07-26T17:45:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: The car park area at Mesilau National Park.

TESSY: Is the slope in the..., in the..., background, where I fell and rolled down last time, Carmen?

CARMEN: I think so Tess. Fond memory, eh?

TESSY: That was a nightmare. I thought..., I thought..., I would roll down the mountain :(

Mesilau Nature Resort

2006-07-25T17:37:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: A photo of us at Mesilau Nature Resort at Mesilau National Park taken last year I think. Hope you like it.

TESSY: We were so loving then, Car?

CARMEN: Tessy..., we are still so loving now :P

TESSY: :P

Carmen's Grounded?

2006-06-27T18:13:00.000+08:00

TESSY: We have our first semester exams back last week and..., and..., I think Carmen's grounded from blogging for not doing so well.

CARMEN: Tess....., I am not! Dad said we both have to spend less time blogging and GameBoy, and focus more on our studies.

TESSY: Me, also?

CARMEN: Of course.

TESSY: But..., but..., I got top 10.

CARMEN: So?

TESSY: That's not fair.,.

CARMEN: Well, at least you got a present.

TESSY: Oh..., thanks dad for Barbie's costumes. I like them.

CARMEN: I'm sad but I'll try my best next semester.

TESSY: Good Carmen. But what are you doing here blogging?

CARMEN: Opppss..., ok, let's log off before dad comes back.

Boring Boring Holidays except for the Crocs

2006-06-12T17:49:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We had two weeks of school holidays but we did not get to go any where interesting. Both mom and dad were pretty busy. It was simply boring except for the Crocs...

TESSY: Yes, the Crocodile Farm at..., at..., Tuaran was the only interesting place we..., we..., went to. They have Crocodile Show and..., and..., we get to feed the fish.

CARMEN: The Tuaran Crocodile Farm is the largest crocodile farm in Sabah with about 1,000 crocs we were told. We did not count but we think they could be more than 1,000.

TESSY: They also have..., also have..., a cultural village and..., and..., cultural dance shows. And also..., also..., an Ostrich farm and more...

CARMEN: Yeah..., we'll tell you more about it later, when dad got the pics in digital.

TESSY: Don't hope too much Carmen. Dad's really..., dad's really..., busy this month.

CARMEN: So, what's new? Arghhh...

First Semester Examinations

2006-05-18T19:06:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We will be having our 1st semester exams next week from 22nd to 25th May.

TESSY: Mine finishes a day early.

CARMEN: Yeah Tess. You are lucky. But next year, you will have 4 days of exams.

TESSY: Maybe you will have 5 days then, Carmen?

CARMEN: Whatever...

TESSY: So......, we can't really blog for awhile as we have to...., we have to...., "ulang kaji" or revision.

CARMEN: C'mon Tess..., let's go study.

Tessy's Birthday on a Train Ride

2006-05-12T23:49:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Today's my 8th birthday and guess where we went?

CARMEN: Mom took us for a train ride from KK to Papar. What an adventure as it was the first time we took a train. We did not take the olden days British North Borneo Railway train (more for tourists and very expensive) but just the normal one.

TESSY: Yeah..., and it cost us..., emm..., emm..., only less than a ringgit to Papar (child's fare). Dad drove to Papar and met us at..., at..., the train station.

CARMEN: We actually went with our cousins, Darren and Damien, and their mum, our Aunty Vera. Their daddy also drove to Papar to meet them. Real fun inside the train. Bumpy but exciting.

TESSY: We had lunch in Papar old town and..., and..., later we drove to Melinsung Summer Bay beach, near Papar, for a picnic and played at the playground.

CARMEN: Summer Bay is a cool place and its beach is one of the better beaches in Sabah, you know?

TESSY: Later at night, mum and dad took us to..., to..., Sutera Marina Resort for a delicious dinner and..., and..., my aunty Vera bought me a..., a..., yummy Birthday cake.

CARMEN: We had great fun!

TESSY: One of my best Birthday ever.

CARMEN: Oh, Tess..., Happy Birthday, ok?

TESSY: Thanks, Carmen.

Carmen's Birthday Bash at @mosphere

2006-04-19T12:56:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Last night, we went to have..., have..., dinner to..., to..., celebrate Carmen's 9th Birthday at @mosphere, a special restaurant..., restaurant..., on the 18th floor of..., of..., Tun Mustapha building in Likas.

CARMEN: It is more well known as Sabah Foundation or Yayasan Sabah (YS) Building. More details on @mosphere can be found at few news articles titled Delights in Sabah Tourism, @mosphere - Sabah's newly newly open high-end class restaurant, and Sabah’s revolving eatery at Sabah Foundation building.

TESSY: Yupp. Why @mosphere is a so special is because..., because..., em..., em..., it is the only revolving restaurant in..., in..., Sabah.

CARMEN: Maybe the only one in the whole of Borneo, Tess. Dad said the restaurant revolved at 6 degree per minute whatever that means.

TESSY: Carmen..., the restaurant will take about..., about..., 1 hour to rotate one full circle.

CARMEN: Actually, dining at @mosphere is a great experience with the best view of Kota Kinabalu in 360 degree. Is my mathematics correct, Tess? Best to go there to enjoy the sunset view. All the design is really cozy and modern, just like in the future, even their toilets.

TESSY: I even forgot about my..., about my..., food. Carmen and I just enjoyed the place and not the food.

CARMEN: The best part is the service. Really excellent. The staff sang Happy Birthday to me (not once, but twice) when they brought out my delicious Birthday Cake, and they even gave me a Birthday Card with all staff's signatures in it. The candles were special too. You have to blow them off many many times. I think they put candles that cannot be easily blown off to make work harder?

TESSY: Also, the staff were..., were..., very friendly, always smiling...

CARMEN: And they were very pleasant too. They even let us play on their Grand Piano, right, Tessy?

TESSY: Yupp, playing piano while revolving can be..., can be..., quite dizzy.

CARMEN: I think mom felt dizzy during dinner that she lost her appetite. She said she felt like sea sick...

TESSY: Coz she kept looking at the..., at the..., movement of the windows and..., and..., floor.

CARMEN: Yupp, should just stare at the dining table.

TESSY: Anyway, we had so much fun that we didn't wantr to leave.

CARMEN: Even our cousins, Darren and Damien joined us later in the night, and I think they were also as excited as us with the revolving thingy. We walk around the restaurant many times.

TESSY: Darren likes your Birthday cake too, Carmen.

CARMEN: This is my most memorable Birthday dinner ever. Nothing to do with the food or the cake. Just the @mosphere - get it? Will get dad to post some pics next time.

TESSY: Oh, Happy Birthday Carmen.

CARMEN: Thank you so much, Tessy...

Rich Kid Poor Dad?

2006-03-24T18:13:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Because of our..., our..., poorer than expected grade, dad wanna teach us..., teach us..., the values of being a smart kid. He bought the book by..., by..., Robert T. Kiyosaki called "Rich Kid Smart Kid".

CARMEN: And Tessy took the book from him and read it first. Dad had no chance to read it now until Tessy finishes with it.

TESSY: So, dad asked me..., asked me..., to tell him what I'd read. I wrote down..., wrote down.., what I read. I think dad was very happy with me. He even post something about this at his..., at his..., blog.

CARMEN: I guess Tessy just want to make him happy so that he will let her play GameBoy?

TESSY: Yeah..., right Carmen :)

CARMEN: I also wrote something on Rich Kid Smart Kid for him, you know? And he let me watch TV, and we can surf the Net and blog too :)

TESSY: Carmen..., I really think the lessons from the book is..., is..., very good.

CARMEN: I do hope that you mean it, Tessy.

TESSY: Go read dad's Blog and..., and..., figure that one out for yourself, Carmen.

CARMEN: And I thought our blog is all about the Land Below The Wind?

Grounded from Blogging

2006-03-05T17:18:00.000+08:00

TESSY: We have been GROUNDED...

CARMEN: Well, almost... Dad's not too happy with our February test results. We got more 'B's than 'A's you know. and dad is not allowing us to spent time on the Net and blogging too often from now on. Sad eh?

TESSY: That's our own fault Carmen. We spent..., we spent..., too much time with our cousin, Tia from the US.

CARMEN: Well, we won't be able to see her again until 5 more years according to her mom. I'll surely miss her.

TESSY: Now look what happened. Dad wants us..., wants us..., to really concentrate now on our studies. No more Tia...

CARMEN: No more GameBoy, Tessy?

TESSY: Urghhhhh

Hotel Shangri-La's buffet

2006-02-13T18:11:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last weekend, we had a family dinner at Hotel Shangri-La. Not to be confused with the Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort (STAR) which is a 5-star resort. This Hotel Shangri-La I think is about 3-4 star and is located in Kota Kinabalu city centre at Bandaran Berjaya, just opposite the main cinema.

TESSY: The buffet was not so good, you know Carmen?

CARMEN: Yeah..., tell me about it. Not much varieties and choices.

TESSY: I think STAR and Sutera Harbour Resort are much..., are much..., more delicious.

CARMEN: The service at Hotel Shangri-La is not so good also. But it is still a good little hotel if your budget is a bit tight.

TESSY: Mom and dad got married there last time. I mean.., I mean..., they had their..., their..., wedding dinner and reception there. That's why..., that's why..., the hotel is..., is..., a bit special for them. But why they didn't..., they didn't..., have it at Sutera Harbour Resort, Carmen?

CARMEN: Well, because...., there was no Sutera Harbour at that time.

TESSY: Pity them?

CARMEN: Nah.., dad said Hotel Shangri-La was one of the best hotel in KK last time but their dim sum is still one of the best in town according to dad.

TESSY: Oh I see..., I remembered eating there..., eating there..., few years ago. Not bad really.

CARMEN: Luckily we didn't bring Tia, our cousin from the US along...

TESSY: Tia, Tia, Tia, only Carmen? It was a..., a..., family dinner, you know Carmen?

CARMEN: I know..., just wondering...

Happy Chinese New Year

2006-01-27T18:38:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: The Chinese New Year this year will fall on 29 January, and we'll have about a week off from school. Tessy and I would like to wish you Gong Xi Fa Cai, that is, if you are celebrating the Chinese New Year. I just can't wait to receive lots of Ang Pow.

TESSY: This year is the Year of the Dog according to the..., to the..., Chinese Astrology.

CARMEN: Is it a good year for Ox? That's my animal sign you know.

TESSY: How do I know Carmen? Just ask Lillian Too maybe?

CARMEN: Lillian Too the Feng Shui master? Hmmm, I sensed that it will be a very good year for Ox and Tiger, and that's you Tessy.

TESSY: Every year will be a good year if you..., if you..., work hard, concentrate and be..., and be..., discipline.

CARMEN: Tessy, did Dad told you that?

TESSY: I think so. But it's..., it's..., true you know. We make our own..., our own..., Feng Shui, you know?

CARMEN: Alright. Enough of that. Hope all of you will have a wonderful and safe New Year celebration and don't drive if you drink.

TESSY: Also..., also..., don't gamble too much.

CARMEN: Oh..., and not forgetting the Muslims who will be celebrating their New Year as well on 31 January, a Happy New Year to all of you too.

TESSY: Happy Holidays....

Back To School 2006

2006-01-03T18:33:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Wow, what a boring holidays. Mom and dad were simply too busy to take us for our annual vacation away this year. So, I'm so happy that schools started for 2006.

TESSY: Yeah Car. It was B.O.R.I.N.G..... but..., but..., I'm ok as I can read books and play..., play..., GameBoy a lot.

CARMEN: Anyway, I'm now in Primary 3 and Tessy in Primary 2.

TESSY: I'm no longer the..., the..., youngest in school. Yipeeee.....

CARMEN: But..., this year, I'll be in the morning session and Tess, in the afternoon session. I have to wake up so early at 5.30 am while Tessy can sleep in. So, I guess I can't meet you for lunch this year, Tess?

TESSY: That's ok Carmen. I think..., I think..., I can handle it. I've got..., I've got..., some friends now, you know?

CARMEN: That's excellent Tessy. I know you can take care of yourself this year.

TESSY: Of course Carmen. But..., but..., I'll miss you in school.

Royal London Fun Fare and a WET Christmas

2005-12-28T19:03:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: On Boxing Day, mom and dad took us to the Royal London Fun Fare in downtown Kota Kinabalu (opposite the Standard Chartered Bank) and it was a lot of fun even though our fun was cut short suddenly by a big storm, more like a tropical storm.

TESSY: It was a wet..., wet..., Christmas. We were trapped there and..., and..., got all soaking wet when we..., when we..., ran to our car.

CARMEN: At least we got to try out the Ferris Wheel, the Bumper Car, and the Grand Canyon, which was the best ride of them all as it rocks like a cradle from left to right and from top to bottom, like it tried to throw us off.

TESSY: The Canyon was so scary. I nearly..., I nearly..., vomitted.

CARMEN: The rain stopped us from trying the Octupus ride and the Ghost Train. Were stucked at the bumper car shelter for awhile. But mom said she will take us back again, soon.

TESSY: But Carmen, the Fun Fare was really expensive you know.

CARMEN: The entrance fee is ok. RM2 per person but Tess, you are right, the entertainment rides were very expensive. I think the Ferris Wheel alone cost us more than RM20 for 2 adults and 2 children.

TESSY: I think..., I think..., the Royal London Fun Fare will be on for..., for a month until middle of..., of..., January 2006, right Carmen?

CARMEN: Don't know, don't care. As long as we get to go back one more time.

TESSY: Yeah..., as long as dad pays for it, right?

CARMEN: Exactly Tess. High Five...

A Merry Tropical Christmas To You

2005-12-23T17:45:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Tessy and I would like to wish you "Merry Tropical Christmas". No snow here in Borneo but a tropical Christmas is still wonderful. Hope you will have a great celebration and please drive safely, ok? If you drink, don't drink too much. Just a sip will do. After all, this Christmas celebration is not actually about the food, wine, Christmas tree, presents or Santa Claus. It is really about the birthday of the little Lord Jesus. Please invite Him to your celebration during this Christmas, and give him a gift. A small one will do - just be good to everyone.

TESSY: That's a good one, Carmen. Oh..., one more thing. Has mom..., has mom..., booked the turkey yet?

CARMEN: Tesssss, it's not about the turkey also.

TESSY: Noooo Car..., we can celebrate. We can eat all the..., all the..., good food. We can..., we can..., ask dad to buy us..., buy us..., two presents. But just don't forget to..., to.., think of Him when you eat the turkey.

CARMEN: Hemmm, I guess you are right there, Tess. So, is dad getting us two presents this year? We've being real good and we did very well in our studies.

TESSY: Dunno..., I'm just giving an..., an..., example.

CARMEN: Yeah, I know. But can you ask dad to get us two presents?

TESSY: Arggghhh. Will try...

CARMEN: Love you Tessy, and oh..., Merry Christmas to you too.

Beach Vacation at Nexus Karambunai, Tuaran

2005-12-21T19:08:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last week, we went to Nexus Karambunai for a beach vacation. Nexus Karambunai is one of our favaourite tropical resorts for a family getaway coz the beach there in Tuaran is pretty white and sandy and most of all, lots of fun.

TESSY: Yeah, and the food is..., the food is..., em..., em..., not too bad too...

CARMEN: This time round, we did do a horse ride as we were too busy playing with the sand.

TESSY: We didn't swim in the sea too as it was..., it was..., too rough. Dad did not allow! Only swam..., only swam..., in the swimming pool.

CARMEN: The vacation was cool as mom and dad were both too busy this year end to go somewhere further for a family vacation, and so, the next best thing is to go to places like Nexus Karambunai to getaway.

TESSY: And it's not.., it's not..., too far too. Just about 45 minutes..., 45 minutes..., away from Kota Kinabalu I think.

CARMEN: Do enjoy some of our pics at Nexus Karambunai above.

Tessy got her ears pierced!

2005-12-10T18:46:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: At last, Tessy finally got her ears pierced! Many times mom and I had tried to persuade her to get it done but she was a bit scared. I told her many times that I did not really felt any pain when I pirced my ears early this year. It only hurts like an ant's bite.

TESSY: It was not like an ant's bite Carmen. It was a bit..., a bit..., more painful than that...

CARMEN: C'mon Tess. It was not all that painful. You nearly freak out even before it was pierced. But you were a brave girl. I and mom are very proud of you.

TESSY: It was a bit itchy after that but..., but..., luckily I forgot about it when we watch..., we watch..., em..., em..., "The Chronicle of Narnia" at the movies later.

CARMEN: Great movie, right Tess?

TESSY: Yeah Carmen. It was cool...

Satay Celup in Kota Kinabalu

2005-12-09T14:08:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Last night, dad bought us to eat "Satay Celup", a unique..., a unique..., Malacca delicacy at..., at..., em..., em..., Gold Star Sports and Recreational Centre in Penampang, just before..., before..., Lido. Satay Celup is like a..., a..., Satay Steamboat.

CARMEN: The meat are on skewers like the usual satay, but instead of being barbequed on chacoal, they are dunked by customers into a boiling pot of water or soup with satay sauce on the table, just like te popular Chinese steamboat dinner. The place is outside the club on the car park open space but with a tent over the dinning area. They open from 7pm to 2am each day I reckon?

TESSY: I think you are right, Carmen. I saw the..., the..., notice board too.

CARMEN: Dad said he think Gold Star is the only place where you can find Satay Celup in Kota Kinabalu. Normally, this dish can only be found in Malacca.

TESSY: I think there are..., there are..., moving vans that also serve Satay Celup. Saw it once at..., at..., Lintas I think.

CARMEN: We both like the Satay Celup but we didn't eat much as the satays were too "chilli hot". Had to drink a lot of juice and water.

TESSY: Yeah..., it was yummy but..., but..., a bit hot. I had to suck on an..., on an..., ice cube.

CARMEN: Me too Tessy.

TESSY: But it was a good dinner, right Carmen?

CARMEN: Well..., if only they can change the ASTRO channel to Disney.

Langkah Syabas Beach Resort, Kinarut

2005-11-29T08:10:00.000+08:00

This is what Langkah Syabas looks like from the front

A view of the garden and pool where we'd our horse ride

Great food at the beach resort restaurant - yummy

CARMEN: From Seaside Travellers Inn, we visited its neighbour, the Langkah Syabas Beach Resort. The beach resort is a good place to get away from city life. It is run by an Australian and as it is just besides the sea, you can go swimming all day if you want to. There's also a pool there if you don't like the sand. Their rooms are cosy too. Feels just like a beach vacation. Also, it has lots of greens around its garden. You can also do Horse Riding at Langkah Syabas Beach Resort. We had so much fun last time.

TESSY: Carmen, you sounded like..., like..., Samantha Brown from Discovery Travel Channel, you know?

CARMEN: Thank you Tessy. Just practising :)

TESSY: The food at Langkah Syabas was great too. I like their..., their..., Mount Kinabalu ice cream.

CARMEN: You can visit dad's travel blog at to get more information on Langkah Syabas Beach Resort and also some more photos.

TESSY: Yeah..., our pic also there. Great, eh Carmen?

CARMEN: Yupp. It was so cool...

Seaside Travellers Inn, Kinarut

2005-11-28T18:38:00.000+08:00

Seaside Travellers Inn from the inside

A Barbeque area near the seaside and the Beach House

The Beach House where we can see the wonderful sunset

CARMEN: Early this month, we followed dad to visit Seaside Travellers Inn at Kinarut, about 45 mins drive from Kota Kinabalu I think. It is part of his "work" to get some shots of the Inn for his website and blog. Seaside Travellers Inn is a wonderful place to stay if you want some peace and quiet away from the busy city life.

TESSY: We were his..., his..., assistants that day. I enjoyed it cause we also dropped by..., dropped by..., at Langkah Syabas Beach Resort, just next door to Seaside Travellers Inn. We ate at both places. Yummy.

CARMEN: We only ate at Langkah Syabas Beach Resort, Tessy. You wanted to eat again at Seaside Travellers Inn but was too full. Remember?

TESSY: Oh..., forgot. I only had a drink.

CARMEN: And some mosquitoes bites?

TESSY: Yupp. It was getting dark, and a lot of..., a lot of..., bad mosquitoes came out.

CARMEN: Yes..., it's by the seaside, so during sunset which was so beautiful, better put on some long pants. And if you want to know more about Seaside Travellers Inn and more pics, just visit dad's travel blog.

TESSY: Just take a look at..., look at..., some of our photos above, ok? We will post..., will post..., Langkah Syabas Resort later, ok? Have to play GameBoy. Dad just bought us..., bought us..., a new game, 190-in-1, Hillary Duff 2, Barbie, and more wow...

CARMEN: Bye for now. Hope you like the photos. Hey Tessy..., Isn't it my turn to play?

TESSY: Hemmm, ok, here you are Carmen.

CARMEN: Thanks Tessy. You are the bestest of best sister I ever have. Love ya.

Got our first HandPhone!

2005-11-21T18:20:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Actually..., actually..., dad gave us his old handphone (or cellphone). He bought us our first..., our first..., handphone's number.

CARMEN: Dad bought us our first SIM card actually, Tessy.

TESSY: Whatever! I am so excited. Our new handphone's number is..., is..., 013...

CARMEN: Tessy..., didn't dad told you never to give your number to any stranger?

TESSY: Opppsseeee. But it's a Celcom...

CARMEN: Hemmm. I was hoping mom will give me hers...

TESSY: Carmen..., dad gave his old handphone to both of us.

CARMEN: Yeah right..., that's why it is old?

TESSY: At least..., at least..., we have one. It's for emergency call only, Carmen.

CARMEN: Ok then..., but mom said she will give hers to me soon.

TESSY: In a few more months?

CARMEN: What? School will start then. I better have a word to her again.

TESSY: Anyway, I just love..., just love..., dad's Nokia handphone. It's great...

Gaya Island Tropical Vacation (Part 2)

2005-10-31T08:28:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: More photos of Gayana Island EcoResort at Pulau Gaya here with the chalets behind me in the first pic. Nice eh? Very lovely views of the EcoResort and notice the the wooden pathway? I'm actually walking towards the restaurant.

TESSY: I took this pic, you know?

CARMEN: Very nicely taken Tess. Are you sure you took that photo?

TESSY: Of course.

CARMEN: Hemmm, ok, the second pic is me and Tessy at the restaurant I think. Not very clear.

TESSY: Mom took that one. She's not a good photographer.

CARMEN: Shhhh Tess. She is not bad you know.

TESSY: Hmmm, alright Carmen. She's a good photographer, then?

CARMEN: Let's change the subject Tessy. The third pic is me and Tessy on the boat on the way back to shore at Kota Kinabalu. Not very far actually, so that's why we like to spend a family vacation at Pulau Gaya, whenever we can. The boat ride is real fun and we enjoy it very much.

TESSY: You better sum it up now Carmen. It's time for us to go.

CARMEN: Ok Tess. Well, the Gayana Island EcoResort is a fun placed to have a wonderful Tropical Island Vacation. If you have the chance to visit Sabah, don't miss out on a trip to Pulau Gaya. You can come on a day trip or stay overnight at the Gayana Island EcoResort.

TESSY: Yeah..., we definitely have a lot of fun while..., while..., at Pulau Gaya. Maybe..., maybe..., we will see you there one day?

CARMEN: Signing off for now...

Gaya Island Tropical Vacation (Part 1)

2005-10-31T07:37:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: One of our best island to visit for a Tropical Island Vacation is at Gaya Island or Pulau Gaya as we like to call it. Pulau Gaya is about 10 to 15 minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu. Not very far away actually. It is the biggest island at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park or TAR Islands.

TESSY: But..., but..., the best part is that..., is that..., there are lots of water sports there where you can play like the..., like the..., Banana boats and Kayaks as you can see we are enjoying at the pics above. Oh, we were hanging out with our cousins.

CARMEN: Yeah. That was provided by the Gayana Island EcoResort, a place where we like to stay in while at Pulau Gaya. Can you see the chalets in the background in the pics? It's fun to stay overnight too.

TESSY: And..., and..., they have great food there too...

CARMEN: Yes, and Tessy normally eats a lot there too.

TESSY: Of course Carmen..., the restaurant served delicious food you know.

CARMEN: Nevermind Tessy. Hey, dad's new site has more info on Pulau Gaya and Gayana Island EcoResort.

TESSY: Oh ya..., he just created his new site called..., called..., Borneo Tropical Vacation and I think..., I think..., it's a cool name. Don't you think?

CARMEN: Do us a favour and visit the site and then tell us what you think, ok? Thanks.

One-Year Blog Anniversary

2005-10-28T20:38:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Happy One-Year Birthday Blog. Boy, time sure flies pass fast. It's been a year since we first published our Land Below the Wind blog. We even got dad to get the domain name landbelowthewind.com you know. And I must tell you it has been real FUN.

TESSY: Yupp, Carmen is right. We hope you enjoy our blog and please..., and please..., continue to visit us soon.

CARMEN: We planned to add more to our blog as the school holidays are near. Dad normally don't allow us to blog too often except during the holidays.

TESSY: What was your..., what was your..., favourite post this one year, Carmen?

CARMEN: Don't know! Don't care!

TESSY: Carmen...., be serious...

CARMEN: Just kidding Tess. I like all the postings that have photos, but the one I like most is the Kaamatan Harvest Festival and the Unduk Ngadau. I also like the post on Tamparuli and Kiulu when Danielle and Christopher were here for the holidays. What about you, Tessy?

TESSY: I like best our three days Sandakan Vacation postings. I wish we can go vacation there again this year. Until now, Dad has not..., has not..., posted the pics he'd promised.

CARMEN: Yeah, where're the photos? Has he scan them yet, do you know Tessy?

TESSY: Dunno. Hmmm, I think he'd forgotten about it.

CARMEN: Anyway, Tessy and I just hope that our little blog has been as fun to you to read as it has been for us to blog.

TESSY: Do hope you will continue to visit us, ok?

CARMEN: Cheers Tessy, and cheers to you and everyone too for reading our blog this past year.

Year-End School Holiday is Near

2005-10-26T18:25:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Yesssssss, we start our year-end school holiday next week. This Friday will be our last day at school this year. We have a two-month break. Yipeeeeeee.

TESSY: You are very happy Carmen because you did very well in your..., in your..., Semester 2 exams. "You Came First" like..., like..., Lindsay Lohan's song. Congratulations Car.

CARMEN: Thank you Tess. From no. 10 last semester to no. 1. Not bad eh? You did pretty well too. You came Six. 9 'A's right? You'd improved too from no. 8 to 6. Well done Tessy.

TESSY: Thanks Carmen. Dad was really pleased with..., with..., us, especially you.

CARMEN: He was very proud of both of us for working real hard and not playing GameBoy or watch too much TV for a month. He don't really care about the numbers.

TESSY: Well..., I hope dad will not only buy us presents but..., but..., will also bring us..., bring us..., for vacations?

CARMEN: Yupp, that's right Tess. Luckily, we both got in the Top 10, or else, no vacation for us and may be stucked studying over the holidays.

TESSY: Hmmm, I like studying and..., and..., reading book. I don't really mind staying at home all the time if dad bought..., if dad bought..., a lot of books for me.

CARMEN: Tesssss, that is why you are called a Book Worm.

TESSY: Nope, I'm the Princess of Books and you are the Princess of Shopping, Carmen.

CARMEN: Arghhhhh...

Our Final Exams are finally OVER!

2005-10-14T16:38:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Yesssss...., our final examinations are finally over and done with. We can now get out our GameBoy and watch TV. It was a tough month last month as Dad wanted us to focus 100% on our studies.

TESSY: That's why we didn't do..., do..., any blogging for awhile.

CARMEN: And Tessy did very well in her exams. She got 9 As isn't it Tessy?

TESSY: Yupp. It was a piece of cake..., I think?

CARMEN: You think? You did much better than me. I only got 5 As and 2 Bs and 2 more subjects not return yet.

TESSY: Yeah Car, because Primary 2 is different from Primary 1.

CARMEN: Yes. I only got a B in Mathematics. 87% actually. And I was the highest in my class. No one gets an A for mathematics.

TESSY: Dad was very happy with your..., your..., Bahasa Malaysia. You scored an A in Paper 1 and..., and..., a B in Paper 2.

CARMEN: My Malay improved a lot. Luckily I studied harder this semester. So did you you Tessy.

TESSY: Yeah. Because I want to be a Doctor. My second choice is a..., is a..., Teacher and my third, a..., a...., Policewoman.

CARMEN: Hope we can find the time to blog during our holidays in October. Over and out for now...

Best Dim Sum Hotel Restaurant - Silk Garden, Pacific Sutera

2005-09-11T18:02:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Speaking of Dim Sum, I think one of our favourite Dim Sum treats in a hotel restaurant has to be Silk Garden, a Chinese restaurant located at Level 1, Pacific Sutera Hotel at the Sutera Harbour Resort in Kota Kinabalu. We used to go for their All-You-Can-Eat specials. I think it is better than the one at Promenade Hotel.

TESSY: I like Promenade too. It serves many varieties of Dim Sum too?

CARMEN: Yeah, but do they offer 88 Flavours of Dim Sum delicacies from 9am to 3pm during the weekend and 11.30am to 3pm during weekdays.

TESSY: Carmen..., are you copying that from the Silk Garden's brochure?

CARMEN: Hmmm, nope Tess. It's all in my mind. Dad said I have a photographic memory.

TESSY: As if.....

CARMEN: Shhhh..., let us at least let people know what time they can go to catch the Dim Sum specials.

TESSY: Ok Car..., but you must also mention that..., that..., Silk Garden is a bit different from Foo Pin.

CARMEN: Of course, Tess. It's a Dim Sum Hotel Restaurant.

TESSY: Nooooo, I mean for some Dim Sum servings, you have to order for..., for..., them to cook and you..., you..., can also go just outside..., go just outside..., the restaurant to ask the chef himself to cook a dumpling or two...

CARMEN: Yeah. It's cool eh?

TESSY: What cool? Sometimes, you have to wait for awhile before..., before..., the Dim Sum arrives.

CARMEN: Huh? But they also have other Dim Sums you can take as you like?

TESSY: Yes Car, but the ones that I love most, I have to wait :(

CARMEN: At least they also serve fruits on the side.

TESSY: Nahhh, I don't take fruits. I eat meat only Carmen.

CARMEN: Hmmm, never mind. Silk Garden is of course serving their customers in a different style as they are part of a hotel resort, Tessy. Get it?

TESSY: Whatever! But I like the most, the stroll outside the..., outside the..., beautiful garden after a heavy meal. Ahhh, I know now why you said..., you said..., Silk Garden is better than Promenade, Carmen.

CARMEN: Precisely, Tessy. Get it?

TESSY: Duh!

Best Dim Sum Restaurant - Foo Phin

2005-09-10T15:45:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: One of our best restaurants for Dim Sum (traditional Chinese food/delicacies) is at Foo Phin, in Luyang around HillTop. Not sure what exactly the place where it is located is call but its near HillTop housing area along the Lintas Highway. Dad is I think the biggest Dim Sum lover in the world, and we normally go for breakfast there each weekend. If you are also a Dim Sum lover, we recommend Foo Phin.

TESSY: I loveeeeee Dim Sum toooooo.

CARMEN: Yes, and Tessy love it too.

TESSY: Foo Phin has big..., big..., shrimp serving called "Har Gow". They have the biggest "Har Gow" in..., in..., whole of Sabah I think. But I love the..., love the..., "Sau Mai" (or pork dumplings) the most.

CARMEN: You and dad are the same, Tessy. You can take many servings (served in tiers of bamboo steamers) of "Sau Mai". Mom likes the "Har Gow" the most. And for me..., I like their chicken porridge.

TESSY: Foo Phin also have a lot of..., a lot of..., varieties and choices of Dim Sum. They have different steamed buns or "Pau" in Chinese. I love..., I love..., those too.

CARMEN: You love everything call FOOD, Tessy...

TESSY: So?

CARMEN: Nothing Tessy. Just watch your weight...

TESSY: I'm a meat eater Carmen. I'm a Tiger.

CARMEN: Whatever...

Our prayers for the victims of Hurricane Katrina

2005-09-03T20:33:00.000+08:00

TESSY: We are so sad about what happened in the US. We can't believe that it can..., it can..., happened in the US. Carmen and I can only..., can only..., pray for the people who are suffering now and..., and..., those who died. We really felt for them.

CARMEN: It was bad. Especially the babies and children.

TESSY: I feel very bad for the..., for the..., people in New Orleans who are still..., who are still..., trapped there. And..., and..., many people lost their home, lost everything.

CARMEN: We watch CNN a lot the last few days, you know. But it's too sad to watch some time.

TESSY: I'm making "goody bags" for the children.

CARMEN: What's that, Tess?

TESSY: Carmen, that's a bag for goodies for the hungry kids, like food, sweets, water, my shoes and..., and...

CARMEN: Why don't you just ask dad to sent money to them, Tess?

TESSY: You mean a donation, Carmen?

CARMEN: Yeah, exactly.

TESSY: Because..., they don't need money. They need to eat and..., and..., to drink.

CARMEN: How are you going to sent your goody bags to them?

TESSY: Larry King Live tomorrow morning at 8am.

CARMEN: What?

TESSY: The show will tell us how we can help, Carmen! Get it?

CARMEN: Ohhhh...

TESSY: Dad's blog has a very good editorial too on..., on..., the Hurricane Katrina.

CARMEN: Tessy, will you be praying for the little kids and babies tonight again?

TESSY: Of course, Carmen. They need our prayers.

CARMEN: Don't pray too loud and long.

TESSY: Why, Car?

CARMEN: Becozzzzz, it makes e very sad, and can't go to sleep.

TESSY: Ok then, Car. I'll pray in my heart.

CARMEN: Thanks, Tess.

TESSY: You're welcome, Car.

Kinabalu National Park and Kundasang Holiday

2005-08-28T18:18:00.000+08:00

TESSY: We went for a holiday at Kinabalu National Park and..., and..., Kundasang over the weekend.

CARMEN: It was disappointing as we suppose to go to Kudat to see the Tip of Borneo. But the weather was not so good and plans changed as it would be a long drive. About 4 hours from Kota Kinabalu.

TESSY: It's ok Carmen. It was fun to..., to..., visit Kinabalu and..., and..., Kudasang again. It was cool...

CARMEN: Yeahhh..., but we've been there before many times. One visit to Perkasa Hotel Kundasang can be found here. And Kinabalu National Park is boring if its rain as we can't go picnic. The pic above was taken just outside the entrance to the Park and that was taken two years ago...

TESSY: Kinabalu National Park still looks great and..., and..., the Perkasa Hotel at Kundasang has changed..., has changed..., a bit since the last time we were..., we were..., there.

CARMEN: So?

TESSY: Hemmm....

And this is Tessy at Langkah Syabas again

2005-07-14T11:27:00.000+08:00

TESSY: One more photo of my..., of my..., horse riding vacation at Langkah Syabas.

CARMEN: Hey Tessssss..., That's not fair. You got two pics online and I only got one.

TESSY: Be in control Car. I am just testing the..., just testing the..., new Blogger Image. Its faster to upload our pics now instead..., instead..., of waiting for dad.

CARMEN: Whatever.....

Tessy at Langkah Syabas

2005-07-14T11:15:00.000+08:00

TESSY: This is me, Tessy, riding the miniture horse through the lawn at Langkah Syabas.

CARMEN: Notice the swimming pool in the background? We went swimming one time when we stayed overnight at Langkah Syabas.

TESSY: I think the owner of the place is an..., is an..., Australian who married a Sabahan, right Carmen?

CARMEN: How should I know Tess? We just saw some photos hanging on the wall of the resort but it could be anyone. But, the place is a really cool place to spend the day, and it's not too far from the city too.

TESSY: I know that their breakfast was cool...

CARMEN: ???

Horse Ride at Langkah Syabas, Kinarut

2005-07-14T10:52:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Horse riding is one of my favourite things to do, especially during the vacation. Langkah Syabas, a small beach resort in Kinarut, about 30 mins drive from Kota Kinabalu city, is one great place for horse riding. In the pic, I got to ride on a miniture horse, which was fun. We got to ride through the lawn at Langkah Syabas and the beach. It was really cool!

TESSY: I thought you were scared to ride a horse, Carmen?

CARMEN: Tessssss. That was when I was really young. I love it now. And do I look scared in the pic?

TESSY: You look so cute Carmen. That was taken in two thousand and three.

Dining at the Spice Island at Sutera Harbour's Marina, Golf & Country Club

2005-06-30T17:45:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last weekend, we went to the Marina, Golf & Country Club, Sutera Harbour Resort, to celebrate our grandfather's (we call him "Kung Kung") Birthday. We actually dine at the Spice Island, a luxury restaurant on Level 3 of the Club.

TESSY: Yeah..., it was great because..., because..., you can pamper yourself to a nostalgic yesteryear ambience and savour the aromatic cuisine at the exclusive restaurant rated as certainly one of the best fine dining Malay restaurants in the country, if not the best.

CARMEN: Tesssss, did you copied that from the restaurant's brochure?

TESSY: Oppps. Was it so obvious?

CARMEN: Tesssss..., never mind.

TESSY: Most of the food are..., are..., very spicy.

CARMEN: Of course. That is why it is called the Spice Island, Tess. Mostly Malay and Indian cuisine. Hot and spicy...

TESSY: But where's the island, Carrrr?

CARMEN: Tessy! Don't try to be funny, ok? Anyway, Tess and I had to order the Kids' meal. Just Fish and Chips, but not the same as in other western restaurant though.

TESSY: It was yummier, but I also like the..., like the..., Tandoori Fish. That was not hot.

CARMEN: I like the appertizer, which was complimentary, you know? These were like crackers, local ones I think, maybe made from maize or corn or something, but it came tucked inside a small basket on a miniture oldies tricycle.

TESSY: Yeah..., I like the crackers too...

CARMEN: Tess, you like every type of food, except green vegies and spicy food.

TESSY: I just like to eat.......

CARMEN: Enough Tess! Oh..., I must mention that all the dishes were very beautifully decorated. The chef must be pretty good.

TESSY: According to one of the waitresses, the chef..., the chef..., won awards before.

CARMEN: No wonder. And we were also entertained on our table by the Club's entertainers and they sang Happy Birthday to Kung Kung too. The music was so nice.

TESSY: The lady singer, who was from..., from..., the Philippines, said that..., said that..., in Tagalog, Kung Kung is also Grandfather. I think Kung Kung felt like..., felt like..., he was young again when he..., when he..., heard those old old songs. Elvis Presley's songs, maybe?

CARMEN: Tessy! Lets get back to the restaurant thingy?

TESSY: Okayyyy Carmen. What do you like best about..., about..., Spice Island?

CARMEN: I think I like the restaurant's decoration the most. I like the design. And they even have the Malay gongs displayed too, and we both took turns to play them.

TESSY: That was cool.

CARMEN: All the waitresses and waiters were also very friendly, and we had a grand night out dining and celebrating Kung Kung's birthday. So, if you get the chance, go dine at the Spice Island. We liked it, and I think you will too.

Brenda's Birthday Party and GameBoy

2005-06-18T19:04:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Today is one of the best day I ever had you know. Had so much fun at my classmate, Brenda's Birthday party at McDonald's midday, and then I was so surprise when dad brought me to buy a Gameboy Advance SP. A pink one. Cool. Dad said its a present for me for doing well in my studies.

TESSY: Hope you will..., you will..., borrow me sometimes Car?

CARMEN: Of course Tess. Dad said its for the both of us. You did pretty well in the exams too. I actually select the Winnie the Pooh game just for you, you know?

TESSY: Thank you Car. Can I borrow it now?

CARMEN: Wait first. Let me play first.

TESSY: Heeemmmmmm.....

Kaamatan Harvest Festival & the Unduk Ngadau

2005-05-31T13:11:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Every May, is the Harvest Festival season or Kaamatan in Sabah. It is actually a Kadazandusun people's celebration but today, everybody joins in to have a grand festival. This celebration is to mark the end of harvesting. Rice harvesting that is. The finale will be on 30 and 31 May each year and a grand celebration and many activities will be held on these two days. We normally go to the Cultural Centre or the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) building to join in the fun. Like the bull ride and the arm wrestling, but the event I like most is called the Unduk Ngadau or Cultural Beauty Pagent, or when translated, means "Heart of the Sun". It is to honour Huminodun, who had sacrificed herself during a drought season and people in Sabah are starving, so that it will rain and all the people will be able to plant paddy and have food on earth. The "old people" said that the rain is actually Huminodun's tears, and her body came rice seeds.

TESSY: It is just a myth Carmen...

CARMEN: Yes, but we must be proud of the legend of Huminodun and learn from it you know? The Unduk Ngadau or the beauty queens are supposed to have all the good qualities Huminodun had like beauty, grace, strength and bravery. It is not just a beauty contest like Miss Universe or Miss World, but also, a very cultural thingy.

TESSY: Is Huminodun's daddy a God?

CARMEN: Yes Tess. Huminodun's daddy is the God of the Kadazandusun people called Kinoingan I think, and her mom is called Suminundu. Why?

TESSY: Cozzzzz...., he could have made it rain, right?

CARMEN: Tessy...., it is just a symbolic thingy. But the "old people" said that Kinoingan needed to show to his people that he really love them, and was willing to sacrifice even his own beloved and beautiful daughter.

TESSY: Just kidding Car... he..., he..., he...

CARMEN: I don't think its funny, Tess. Mom was an Inanam's Unduk Ngadau before and she was in the State's final too. So, you are making fun of her?

TESSY: No Car.... It's only a joke. You are too serious. I know that as a half Kadazandusun, or sino-Kadazandusun, we should..., we should..., always promote our culture to the world, and the..., and the..., Kaamatan festival and..., and..., the Unduk Ngadau. Happy now, Car?

CARMEN: Hmmmm, Yeah..., but most important, I think we should not forget our ancestor. It is very unique as the Kadazandusun people can only be found in Sabah.

TESSY: Cheer up Car..., Let us go to the Kaamatan celebration, ok?

Tessy's Birthday Today

2005-05-12T18:54:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: It's Tessy's 7th Birthday today and dad bought her a delicous cake to celebrate. Since it was a school day and we finish class only by 5.30pm, we can't really make a party for her.

TESSY: Oh well...., it's okay! At least I have a cake. Will give some to my classmates tomorrow.

CARMEN: That's a good thought Tess.

TESSY: Hemmm, but I still wish I'd a Birthday party like you did, Car...

CARMEN: Don't worry. You'll have one next year.

TESSY: I hope..... :(

Happy Birthday Carmen!

2005-04-18T21:33:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: I still miss Danielle. One month of fun and now..., back to our studies again.

TESSY: Dad was not too happy with our last test results?

CARMEN: Well, I am still leading my class after two tests and dad I think is ok with me. He will buy a GameBoy PS for me he said. But not with you Tess. You have 3 Bs this time.

TESSY: Ahhh, its because..., because..., we did not study much with Chris and Dan around, and..., and..., dad did not give me enough homework. But..., but..., I am still no. 7 in my class. The GameBoy is actually for your Birthday Car. Oh, Happy Birthday Carmen. You are eight years old today but..., but..., I am still six...

CARMEN: You'll be 7th next month right after our first semester exam.

TESSY: Yipe..., our 1st semester exam will be from 9 to 12 May (thats my birthday by the way), and our poor Blog..., our poor Blog..., will be quiet for awhile again.

CARMEN: Will ask dad to post some photos once in a while. Hope he will do so.

We'll Miss Dan & Chris

2005-04-15T21:23:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Our cousins, Danielle and Christopher, have gone back to Melbourne and we miss them so much. During their last night here, we brought them to have dinner at Portview Restaurant at the Waterfront, just opposite the Promenade Hotel. The Waterfront esplanade is a very good site to catch the sunset. And we can see so many islands nearby. We can also see the Sutera Harbour. It was fun running from one end of the wooden plank esplanade to the other. Dan and Chris liked it too although we reached just minutes after sunset.

TESSY: Carmen, is Portview the same as..., the same as..., the Grand Portview we ate at last time?

CARMEN: Of course its not the same Tess. Portview is at the Waterfront. Grand Portview is downtown KK.

TESSY: I know. I mean do they have the same owner?

CARMEN: I don't think so. Actually, both Portview and Grand Portview are known for their live seafood.

TESSY: But I think the food at Portview is more delicious. We even saw the live giant lobsters and prawns.

CARMEN: I dunno Tess? I don't really take seafood except for the soft crab. Dad said Portview is more expensive than other seafood restaurants around town.

TESSY: That's why their food is more yummy?

CARMEN: I really dunno Tess. But it was a sad night too as Danielle and Chris will be flying back to Australia early the next morning.

TESSY: Chris said they might..., they might..., come back again for a holiday next year.

CARMEN: I hope so...

Another School Test is Here

2005-04-08T20:58:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We will have another school test from 12 to 13 April 2005 and we won't have much time for our blog for the next one week.

TESSY: We won't have much time to..., to..., play with Danielle and Christopher...

CARMEN: And they will be going back to Australia next Friday.

TESSY: And they will be miss your Birthday too Car...

CARMEN: Don't remind me of that Tess. Maybe next time...

TESSY: Another three more years then they will be back here?

CARMEN: Maybe, dad will bring us there next time?

TESSY: Well Car..., I don't think so. Unless the currency exchange rate for Ringgit is stronger said dad.

CARMEN: Currency exchanging what Tessy?

TESSY: Nevermind...

Tamparuli Town and Kiulu Recreational Park

2005-04-06T17:25:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last weekend, we bought Danielle and Christopher to Tamparuli, a small town about maybe 1 hour drive from KK city? And we had one of our favourite mee at one of the shops there.

TESSY: They are called Tamparuli Mee Carmen, and they are yummy...

CARMEN: I know Tess.

TESSY: But the best part of the trip is..., is... the recreational park.

CARMEN: Yes Tess, we went to a recreational and picnic place not far from Tamparuli town called Masenang in Kiulu or something like that, but I think I will just call it Kiulu Recreational Park. The trip actually had to go up very steep hills but I just love it. I think Danielle and Christopher love it too.

TESSY: The recreational park is great for..., for..., some picnic near the river bank, or do some swimming.

CARMEN: Mom told us that the river is also popular for White Water Rafting, something that maybe we will try when we get a little bit older?

TESSY: Dad said we can do it anytime we like as..., as..., the Kiulu river is not that the rough. The other site for..., for..., white water rafting is at..., is at..., Padas river, which is more for the grown ups.

CARMEN: I like walking on the shaky hanging bridges. It was pretty scary at first but, it was ok after awhile.

TESSY: Yeah Car but I was wearing slippers and was afraid that my slippers..., my slippers..., will fall off the bridge. It was scaryyyyy.

CARMEN: I will rescue you if you fall Tess.

TESSY: Hemmm.

Danielle and Christopher from Australia are here

2005-03-13T17:50:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Guess what? Our cousins, Danielle and Christopher just arrived here last night from Melbourne, Australia. Have not seen them for like 3 years and it was great to meet them again. Chris already forgotten about us. Oh, he is only 6 years old by the way, just like Tessy but I think he is a few months younger. And Danielle my favourite cousin is I think 9 years old. I think.

TESSY: Car, how long will they be here?

CARMEN: I dunno Tess. Maybe until April?

TESSY: Ok, they just rang. We need to go..., to go..., to see them now.

CARMEN: Where are we going Tessy?

TESSY: Dunno. Maybe for dinner.

CARMEN: Oh, dad just told me that we are going to the Grand PortView downtown for dinner. The restaurant is quite famous for their fresh seafood says dad.

TESSY: Yummmy. My stomach is making some noise now.

CARMEN: I know you are going to say that Tess.

We Will Be Real Busy

2005-02-12T09:43:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: In the next few weeks, we will not have time for blogging..., under dad's instruction.

TESSY: Yupp. We are going to have a first semester test and we need..., we need... to study hard for it.

CARMEN: Its like we are grounded. Hate this.

TESSY: Car..., we have to study hard you know.

CARMEN: I know Tessy. But its so boring... No shopping...

TESSY: Dad will buy us some presents if we do well.

CARMEN: Oh. I want a Barbie, the Prince and the Pauper.

TESSY: Car..., I don't think so. Its..., its..., only a test.

CARMEN: Shukssss.

TESSY: Ok, dad wants us to start our revision now. We have to..., we have to..., log off now. See ya.

Kinabalu War Memorial, Kundasang

2005-02-11T20:36:00.000+08:00

TESSY: We have a great fun at the..., at the..., Kinabalu War Memorial, Kundasang. You can learn a lot about the war long long time ago and..., and..., how the Australian soldiers were helping us against the Japanese last time. We have photographs for you...,for you..., to see.

CARMEN: This is a place you can visit on the way to Mesilau National Park or if you staying at the Perkasa Hotel Mt. Kinabalu. It is just a few minutes drive from the hotel.

TESSY: The place is..., is..., scary and..., and..., Carmen is scared too.

CARMEN: I know Tessy. Its very scary you know? Do you know why its scary? Because a lot of Australian soldiers die there during World War II. The Memorial is to remember them.

TESSY: Are they buried there? Is it..., is it..., Carmen?

CARMEN: Maybe or maybe not. I dunno. But the place is still eerie.

TESSY: The garden's great but I..., I..., thought that the garden can be more..., can be more..., beautiful if it is..., it is..., looked after more properly.

CARMEN: It is a shame, right Tessy? They should make the place cleaner and someone should decorate the place with more flowers and maybe, trees?

TESSY: Yes Carmen. I like the place the most be..., be..., because the place is cool and I..., I..., can see Mt. Kinabalu from there. And..., and..., you learn a bit about..., about..., the war also.

At the gate entrance

Memorial Plate

Nice garden shed

Tessy posing away from the memorial

Mesilau National Park

2005-01-11T11:23:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: One of our family's favourite vacation sites is Mesilau National Park (or Mesilau Nature Resort), a place where you can climb up Mt. Kinabalu besides from Kinabalu National Park. The climb up Mt. Kinabalu is I think about 1km longer and dad said it is much more challenging using the Mesilau trail than the older and more popular Kinabalu Trail. I have not climb up Mt. Kinabalu yet but dad took Tess and I up the Mesilau trail until about 1km I think. It was great fun. Dad said he will bring us climb Mt. Kinabalu when we are older. But he has to get well 100% first I think.

TESSY: There was a..., a..., lot of..., of..., beautiful orchids there too.

CARMEN: Yeah Tessy, and lots of birds, butterflies and insects.

TESSY: And the greens are really nice.

CARMEN: Much greener than at Kinabalu National Park.

TESSY: But the road going up to..., going up to..., Mesilau National Park is..., is..., really bad Carmen.

CARMEN: Mom's car broke down on one trip Tess. Remember that?

TESSY: Yes Carmen. Dad did not come along on that..., that..., trip.

CARMEN: But we never have car problems when dad's driving right? But one part of the road was very very bad that even dad got a hard time. I really hope they will make the road better soon.

TESSY: Me too Carmen. I really like the place. Its..., its..., soooo cold. And we can..., can..., see the foot of Mt. Kinabalu too. And..., and..., I really like the food at the restaurant. We even..., we even..., checkers, chess and snake and ladders there.

CARMEN: Food again Tess? Lets talk about Mesilau, Tessy?

TESSY: Carrrr, I want to talk about what I want to talk about..., ok?

CARMEN: Why don't you talk about the time you fell and rolled down the steep road at Mesilau. You nearly fell off the mountain. Ha.., ha..., ha.

TESSY: Carrrr, that's because you..., you..., said to race down the..., race down the... road.

CARMEN: Whatever!

TESSY: Hemmmm.

CARMEN: One more thing. If you visit Mesilau and Kinabalu National Park on the same day, you only need to pay for one entrance ticket to visit both places, like what we did one time.

At the Mt. Kinabalu Golf Club green on the way to Mesilau

Carmen posing here by a signboard near the entrance

Beautiful natural and cooling surrounding

In the restaurant playing checkers

Mesilau nature centre

Piano Lessons

2005-01-08T20:08:00.000+08:00

TESSY: I had my first piano lesson today. And..., and..., teacher Helen said that I am quite good. And I..., and I..., can play "Mary Had A Little Lamb" all by myself. I wish you can hear it.

CARMEN: But I can compose my own tune already Tess.

TESSY: Car..., you had piano lessons for one year now.

CARMEN: Whatever! But you are not bad, ok Tess? Truly!

TESSY: Okay! Thank you Carmen.

CARMEN: And we can play duet too on the piano. But you made one or two mistakes Tessy. But that's ok. You will get better very soon ok?

TESSY: Alright Carmen. I will practise, practise, practise, if first I don't succeed :)

Perkasa Hotel Mt. Kinabalu

2005-01-07T16:11:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: One of hotels I like to visit is Perkasa Hotel Mt. Kinabalu at Kundasang. We like to go there everytime we go to Mesilau National Park. It is also very close to the Kundasang War Memorial. It is a steep drive up to the hotel but it was cool. The hotel is not so good but I like the place outside. The hotel's garden is very beautiful with lots of beautiful flowers, especially the purple ones. It is cooling and they also have a Mt. Kinabalu View area where you can have a good view of Mt. Kinabalu and you can walk on the canopy walk.

TESSY: Carmen..., you already said all. What should I say..., say..., next?

CARMEN: Never mind Tessy. You can repeat what I said?

TESSY: Hmmm..., let me think. There are a lot of tall trees at the hotel's Mt. Kinabalu View area. Like those Christmas trees. And the canopy walk was fun. And the hotel's food is..., is..., delicious.

CARMEN: Tessy. Tessy. Tessy. All you can think about is food again?

TESSY: Hmmm..., ok Car. There are some huts too at the Mt. Kinabalu View area. I like the huts because I..., I..., can see everthing from up the hill! I can see..., see..., Kundasang town, and I think KK too.

Perkasa Hotel Mt. Kinabalu at Kundasang

Mt. Kinabalu View

Tessy at a hut on the Mt. Kinabalu View

Balancing on the mini canopy walkway

Carmen with beautiful backdrop of flowers

Nice view of the Crocker Range and Kundasang town

Back to School

2005-01-03T20:15:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: School started today and it was fun. I'm in Primary 2 now. I love my new classroom because its colour is pink. I also met my friends again. How about you Tessy? How was your first day at Primary 1?

TESSY: It was HORRIBLE, Car...

CARMEN: Why Tessy? Don't have any friends?

TESSY: Nope..., be...cause..., there was no homework today.....

CARMEN: Huh...?

TESSY: And..., and..., it was boring when we have to wait for the teacher..., for the teacher..., to come to the class for the..., for the..., next subject.

CARMEN: ???

We Are Very Sad...

2004-12-27T09:53:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We went to Kinabalu National Park on Boxing Day. There was one or two landslides I think. After driving round the National Park, we went for lunch at Kinabalu Rose Cabin, not far away. It was drizzling a bit most of the day but we enjoyed the trip.

TESSY: But when we came back..., when we came back..., in the late evening, and switched on the TV...

CARMEN: I dunno what to say. Dad said that the earthquake in an island in Indonesia caused a huge wave that killed many many people.

TESSY: Its called Tsunami, Car.

CARMEN: We did not even feel anything here?

TESSY: Yeah...

CARMEN: I had nightmare and I don't know why God made this happened. Do you Tess?

TESSY: Dad said God always have a good reason for..., for..., anything we said is bad.

CARMEN: Huh? I don't understand. Nevermind.

TESSY: We are just sadddddd, for the children especially :(

CARMEN: Dad said go to this link to see how we can help or make donation.

Sandakan Vacation: Day 3

2004-12-21T22:49:00.000+08:00

Tuesday, 21 December 2004

CARMEN: Not much on day 3. Didn't do much except at the hotel.

TESSY: We ate breakfast..., we ate breakfast..., at the hotel's restaurant, Plantation Cafe. It was good.

CARMEN: Yeah. But we didn't do anything more. We really wanted to go swimming again, but dad said NO!

TESSY: Cause we have to go to the airport by midday Car.

CARMEN: We suppose to go to Sukau, stay on a river lodge and go for a river cruise to watch the long nose monkeys...

TESSY: Its call the Proboscis Monkey, Car.

CARMEN: Whatever! And we also suppose to go to Selingan island to watch the turtles giving birth and baby turtles hatching from their eggs. But dad said he is still not too fit yet.

TESSY: The weather was not too good too Car. Dad said..., dad said..., better to go during the dry season. In the middle of the year, I think?

CARMEN: Oh...,maybe next time. And that's where the story ends, I guess? Hmmm..., let me think... Nope. Tessy cried on the plane because she didn't get a window seat. Poor baby. Ha..., ha..., ha...

TESSY: Don't laugh at me Carmen, or else I will cry again and you will..., you will..., look at my sad face.

CARMEN: Just kidding Tess. But dad bought you a pack of Kit Kat at the airport to cheer you up?

TESSY: uummm, I like Kit Kat chocolate.

CARMEN: That's all folks. The End of our Sandakan vacation. We really had fun, especially at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and all the delicious food for Tessy. I hope you've enjoyed reading this, and if you haven't been to Sandakan yet, you should you know. But not for shopping though. Just enjoy the greens, forest, orangutans, and wildlife... Hoepfully, dad can post the photos of our vacation here soon, but don't bet on it. He is always very busy.

TESSY: Enough Carmen. The End!

Sandakan Vacation: Day 2

2004-12-20T22:15:00.000+08:00

Monday, 20 December 2004

CARMEN: Today, we went to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in the morning. It was raining but at least we got to see 6 or7 orangutans coming out during the feeding time.

TESSY: At first..., at first..., it was..., it was..., boring. Waiting and waiting and waiting. In the rain.

CARMEN: And we forgot to bring our raincoat. Luckily, John, the tour guide, borrowed us some umbrellas. But it feels like a real adventure, right Tess?

TESSY: Yeeaaaah, Carmen. The orangutans were very funny, and dad said, they are..., they are..., our closest cousin.

CARMEN: As if...?

TESSY: Car, according to Stanley's "Great Big Book of Everything", they got..., they got..., 96 percent DNA same as human beings?

CARMEN: I like when the orangutan pee and pooh while hanging on the robes. That was funny I think.

TESSY: Then, we..., we..., went to watch a video about the orangutans and the Sepilok Reha..., Reha..., tion centre? Hmmm, I don't know. Its just too hard to say.

CARMEN: It's Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Got it Tess?

TESSY: Thanks Car. Then..., then..., we went for lunch. Yipeee.

CARMEN: Eat, eat, eat again Tess?

TESSY: Never mind.

CARMEN: We ate our lunch at a beautiful restaurant up on a hill call English Tea House Restaurant. I like the place. So cool and...

TESSY: It was hot, Car.

CARMEN: I mean cool, as in cool, ok?

TESSY: Oh I see. We played the Croquet game I think? A bit..., a bit..., like golf?

CARMEN: And the lawn was so pretty. Dad said the theme of the restaurant is an English style during the colonial time, whatever that is.

TESSY: And..., and..., we saw a Thomas Edison's gramophone, and..., and..., an old telephone of last time.

CARMEN: Yeah, and then, we went to visit the Agnes Keith Newton House Museum, just a short walk from the English Tea House.

TESSY: Did you know that..., that..., Agnes Keith wrote the book "Land Below The Wind" last time? That is..., that is..., how Sabah, our home, got its nickname.

CARMEN: And its the name of our blog too... Cool eh? And the real house was actually destroyed long time ago during the war I think, but was rebuilt according to the same structure.

TESSY: It is a haunted house you know.

CARMEN: Yeah, and mom told us that the master bed room is where Agnes Keith and her family saw a ghost. A lady wearing a white dress with blood stain. Dad actually took a photo of us in that room. He was not suppose to take pictures but he did not read the sign I think. Luckily, the photo came out alright..., without the ghost standing next to Tessy. Ha..., ha..., ha...

TESSY: Carmennnnnn.

CARMEN: Just kidding Tess. After that, we went to a city tour of Sandakan. Not much there. Went to a shopping complex call Wisma Sandakan I think, and not much things to buy there, but it is better than Centrepoint mall. And we also went to the Water Village and saw the island across the sea where Agnes Keith was, in prison, by the Japanese. John, our guide told us that.

TESSY: It is called Pulau Berhala Car. It is..., it is..., a prisoners camp.

CARMEN: Then, we also went up a very steep and winding road all the way to a Chinese Temple. John told us that that road was the first road built in Sandakan long long time ago, before our grandparents were even born. I think the road is Jalan Tanah Merah or something? John said the area below Jalan Tanah Merah is Bandar Leila I think, the first Sandakan town. But we were getting really tired and didn't enjoy it too much. We just can't wait to get back to the hotel for more swimming.

TESSY: Yeah, and that was..., that was..., where we went once we went back to the hotel.

CARMEN: And I finally did the slide down to the swimming pool, right Tess?

TESSY: Very good Car. And someone in the recreation centre, told you..., told you..., you can be..., can be..., Miss Malaysia when you grow up?

CARMEN: Tessy, I know already that you want to tell everyone about the lady who told me I am going to be Miss Malaysia someday. And I want to join the Miss Malaysia contest when I grow up I think?

TESSY: Then dinner..., dinner...

CARMEN: Tessy. So excited about dinner, huh?

TESSY: That's correct, Car. We went..., we went..., to..., to..., Sandakan Garden Restaurant, up on a hilltop. We ate..., we ate..., a Steamboat meal.

CARMEN: I didn't see any boat there, Tess.

TESSY: Steamboat, Carmen. A meal where you throw in all the food..., all the food..., into a steam pot yourself to cook it?

CARMEN: I know Tessy. Just kidding...

TESSY: It is a good place to eat as we can see Sandakan town down there.

CARMEN: Then, back to our hotel to sleep, while mom read "Land Below The Wind". She bought it at the English Tea House.

TESSY: Dad told me that the price of the book is cheaper..., is cheaper there than in..., in..., Sandakan town.

CARMEN: That's it for Day 2.

Sandakan Vacation: Day 1

2004-12-19T22:35:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 19 December 2004

CARMEN: Today, we went to Sandakan by air. We were so excited cause it was our first time to go on an aeroplane. Can you believe that? It takes about 40 mins to reach Sandakan from Kota Kinabalu and it was a thrill for me and Tessy to fly in a 737 Boeing as we both got to sit by the window seats. It was real fun, you know.

TESSY: I sat with dad, and mom with Carmen.

CARMEN: Enough of the airplane Tess. Ok, where are we? Oh, when we get to Sandakan airport, dad's friend I think, came to pick us up and sent us to Sabah Hotel or known as Renaissance Sandakan Hotel last time. Dad said it is the most expensive and best hotel in Sandakan.

TESSY: Car..., I don't think so. I think..., I think..., Rasa Ria is much better.

CARMEN: Tess..., for Sandakan, it is the best ok? At least it has a bathtub, not like Mimpian Jadi.

TESSY: Hmmm, alrite...

CARMEN: We have a grand time at the hotel, at the swimming pool with the slides and everything. Not bad really, but their outdoor jacuzzi pool was out of order.

TESSY: Later, we went to Sandakan town for shopping...

CARMEN: Sandakan don't have any shopping mall like in Kota Kinabalu. I mean, I can't live here. Without shopping complexes and malls? It will be too boring. I live for shopping. Oh, they also have a Centrepoint, but their 'Centrepoint' is just a small itsy bitsy mini mall.

TESSY: At night..., at night..., we went to eat at a seafood restaurant called Ocean King, not far from our..., from our..., hotel. The taxi driver told us.., the taxi driver told us..., that the restaurant is very popular and..., and..., the food is delicious. But, Car and I were too sleepy. We couldn't keep our eyes open.

CARMEN: We were too tired from the afternoon swim at the hotel's pool.

TESSY: Yeeaaaa, Car..., that was fun. I like the slider down to the pool. And..., and..., you were..., were..., scared?

CARMEN: Whatever! Tessy, please don't embarass me.

TESSY: Hmmm Car. Ok.

CARMEN: The End for Day 1 at Sandakan.

Tambunan Rafflesia Centre

2004-12-12T17:05:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: The Rafflesia Centre at Tambunan is a cool place to visit you know. Tambunan is more than 1 hour drive from Kota Kinabalu city I think?

TESSY: Carmen, I think it is longer than that as we..., we..., always drive slowly to..., to..., enjoy the cool breeze along the way.

CARMEN: Ya, like at the TreeTops. I dunno the name of the place but I think it is halfway between KK and the Tambunan Rafflesia Centre, and there is a restaurant there and opposite the restaurant, there are some treetops accommodation where you can stay overnight. That is why I call the place TreeTops.

TESSY: We hope to find photos about..., about..., this place another..., another..., time, but for..., for..., now, we would like to..., to..., tell you about the Rafflesia Centre.

CARMEN: The Centre is at the Tambunan Rafflesia Rainforest Reserve where you can find the largest flower in the world, the Rafflesia of course. But the Rafflesia doesn't bloom everytime and you got to be real lucky to catch a glimpse of it. And the flower will die in a few days.

TESSY: And you have to walk very far into the..., the..., rainforest sometimes. We never got to see..., see..., the Rafflesia as it was just too far away. The guide at the Centre also..., also..., did not want to..., to..., bring us as he just came back with..., with..., another visitors. But dad said the Rafflesia is..., is..., really smelly Car.

CARMEN: Grose. Yukiee smell and lots of flies too. I saw that on a video once at Kinabalu National Park. But the trees there are real huge and there are lots of colourful butterflies.

TESSY: And bees too, Car...

CARMEN: Ya..., but dad said if we don't disturb them, they won't disturb you.

TESSY: We love the Centre as the air is so..., so..., fresh and very..., very..., cooling.

CARMEN: But you should ask the guide there or call the centre earlier whether there is any bloom. If none, tough luck. Try again another time.

TESSY: Car..., they can always..., always..., take a look at the..., the..., fake Rafflesia inside the..., the..., Information Centre.

CARMEN: You mean the replica Tess?

TESSY: Yes Carmen. It is very big and..., and..., it is not..., not..., smelly, right?

CARMEN: Ya Tessy. Wanna go back there again one day?

TESSY: Yes, I will go back there again when..., when..., daddy is..., is..., 100% well.


The Rafflesia Information Centre and entrance to the Tambunan Rafflesia Rainforest Reserves	Trekking to the place where the Rafflesia blooms through rather dense rainforests at the Reserves

Mimpian Jadi Resort Vacation

2004-11-15T22:40:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We just came back from a vacation at Mimpian Jadi Resort, Tuaran. This is our first overnight family vacation together this year as dad is getting much better now. Mimpian Jadi is the farthest Tuaran resort from KK city, near Sabandar Resort, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort, and Nexus Karambunai Resort. It was a tiring trip as we played on the sand building sand castles, in the pool, ride bicycles, played lawn bowling, and many other things.

TESSY: And we even sang at the Karaoke at night.

CARMEN: Yupp, but I just don't like the room. It has no bath tub Tess. Rasa Ria is much better and cosier. I actually asked dad to change to Rasa Ria but he said to enjoy the outside, not inside the room, and we never stay at Mimpian Jadi too.

TESSY: But.., but..., Carmen, we jumped on the bed and..., and..., had a delicious dinner and some ice cream.

CARMEN: Tessss..., food, food, food, only? Is that all you can think about?

TESSY: But..., but..., Carmen, I like the food.

CARMEN: But not as good as Rasa Ria or Karambunai.

TESSY: And..., and..., we did not swim in the sea. Mom said it was..., it was..., scary. Very rough.

CARMEN: I like the swiming pool and playing basketball on the pool.

TESSY: Me too.

CARMEN: Did you know that Mimpian Jadi Resort is actually called Kampung Resort now? It was also known as Club Sabah Golf and Beach Resort once.

TESSY: I think dad told you that Carmen. But..., but..., everyone called it Mimpian Jadi or Dream Comes True or something like that I think. My..., my..., Bahasa Malaysia is not very good you know.

CARMEN: We will show some photos soon after dad develops and scans them ok?

TESSY: That will take a long time. It is..., it is..., Hari Raya holiday now.

CARMEN: Oh ya..., Selamat Hari Raya to all my Malay friends.

1 Ros Class Photo

2004-11-09T17:40:00.001+08:00

CARMEN: Holiday is finally here. Yeahhhhoooo..... But I will miss my friends Aishah, Regina, Neila, and all of them.

TESSY: Car, I still got classes until Thursday.

CARMEN: Its ok Tess. Hey, here's my primary 1 class photo with all my classmates. Can you guess which one is me? You can click on the photo to make it larger you know?

TESSY: Of course Car..., I think..., I think..., you are standing...

CARMEN: Tesssss, I don't mean you...

TESSY: Oh I see :(

CARMEN: Hmmm. And did you know that Teacher Sarinah, my class teacher is wearing the dress made from the cloth I gave her as a present during Teacher's day last time?

TESSY: Wow, that looks great on her, Car.

CARMEN: Thank you Tessy.

1 Ros 2004

Sepangar Mini Zoo

2004-11-02T17:04:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: If you didn't know..., there is a mini zoo at Sepangar in Menggatal area, near Nexus Karambunai. It is not well looked after but it was quite fun looking at some of the animals there close-up.

TESSY: There are crocodiles there Car..., and, and, they are quite..., quite..., scary.

CARMEN: I hope they will make the place cleaner and better so that it will be more fun. Right Tess?

TESSY: Hmmm, Carmen, I think..., I think..., they should take care more of the..., the animals there.

CARMEN: But this mini zoo is a great place to visit on the way to or from Nexus Karambunai, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort or the other resorts at Tuaran.

TESSY: Car, dad told you..., you that..., didn't he?

CARMEN: So?

TESSY: Hemmm....

CARMEN: Hey, here's some photos for you to take a look at...

The Sepangar Mini Zoo, near
Tuaran, from a distance

Here, we are with mom. Can't
see any animals eh?

With mom and Mr. Hornbill

Can you see the scary crocodile?

Posing here but where're the animals?

Another pose at the Sepangar Mini Zoo

Nexus Karambunai, Tuaran

2004-11-02T15:48:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: We used to go for a vacation at least once a month last time. But this year was boring as dad was not feeling too good since early this year and we did not travel much.

TESSY: Car, I've a splendid idea...

CARMEN: What Tess?

TESSY: Why don't..., why don't..., we post..., post..., our trips here?

CARMEN: Good idea Tess. I think dad had got ready the scans from one of our trip to Nexus Karambunai in Tuaran last time? How far was that resort from KK Tess?

TESSY: According to my calculation..., hmmm, 1 hour by road?

CARMEN: Okiedokie. Take a look at the pictures below where we had such a fun time staying overnight, playing on the white sandy beach, on the playground, horse riding..., although there was no pics of me riding.

TESSY: Car..., you were too scared last time...,

CARMEN: Quite please...

Tessy's Horse Ride at Nexus Karambunai

More Horse Ride at Nexus Karambunai

Tessy riding into the sunset

at Nexus Karambunai

The PlayGround at Nexus Karambunai

At the white sandy Nexus Karambunai

Beach with Mom

My Semester 2 Exam Results

2004-11-01T16:59:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Hi, I'm off from school today. Mom and dad went to my school to collect my 2nd semester examnination results this morning.

TESSY: So, what..., what did you get Car?

CARMEN: I got 8th place in my class.

TESSY: Congratulatons Car. Well down.

CARMEN: Thanks Tess, but Aishah my best friend told me she got no. 1, and Regina got no. 2.

TESSY: Its ok Car. You'd improved a lot from your 1st semester. You, you got all 'A's and only, only 1 'B' this time Car.

CARMEN: I know Tess, but according to your list of prizes, for no. 8, I only get a CD, but I want Barbie in the Swan Lake.

TESSY: Hmmm..., let me..., let me..., let me discuss with dad ok?

CARMEN: Please Tess? Thanks.

Gaya Seafood Restaurant

2004-10-30T13:50:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Last night, we went for dinner at Gaya Seafood Restaurant, near Inanam town. How far was it from Kota Kinabalu city Tess?

TESSY: 15 mins from city if Dad's driving, and 5 mins if Mom's driving.

CARMEN: This is one of mom's favourite seafood restaurants.

TESSY: Not anymore Car, after last night. The service was slow and my favourite soft crab dish never arrive.

CARMEN: What did the big old man said to dad?

TESSY: He said they could not catch the type of crab and offer us the normal ones but we already finished the other dishes. Mom said it used to be very good. The food and service were excellent but not anymore. Mom said she doesn't want to dine there anymore.

CARMEN: Oh well..., hope they get better as I really like the place.

Our Pics

2004-10-30T13:33:00.000+08:00

Carmen and Tessy

CARMEN: We asked Dad to find a pic of us to be posted here. Here it is. Not too good though. Taken November 2003 according to Dad from his old digi camera. I hate it. I look funny. Will ask him to find better ones next time.

TESSY: That's me on the right, and Car on the left. And I think I had grown up a bit.

I am going to Primary 1 Next Year

2004-10-30T11:50:00.000+08:00

TESSY: Few days ago, I followed grandpa and granny to sent Carmen at her school at St. Francis Convent and found that I have been accepted to the school next year. I saw my name at no. 8 on the list of new students enrolled for Primary 1 for 2005.

CARMEN: Tess, you will be with the grown-up girls now. No more baby voice ok?

TESSY: Carrrrr, I know.

CARMEN: If there is any big bullies, I will look after you ok?

TESSY: Ok Car, but can you buy me some food at the canteen too?

CARMEN: No problem little sis.

TESSY: Can't wait to go to Primary 1...

Welcome to Our BLOG

2004-10-28T09:15:00.000+08:00

CARMEN: Hi, I am Carmen from Sabah Malaysia Borneo. I am 7 years old and studying at Primary 1 at SRK St. Francis Convent here in Kota Kinabalu.

TESSY: Hai, my name is Tessy and I am 6 years old. I am still at the Playschool called Kiddieworld Montessori and I would like to welcome you to our blog. We have created this blog because...

CARMEN: Hey Tess..., let me do say that.

TESSY: Hmmmm, ok Carmen. Grwwwll.

CARMEN: Ok. Thanks Tess. Oh by the way, Tessy is my younger sister.

TESSY: Carmen, don't waste time ok?

CARMEN: Okayyy. The reason for this blog is simple. We just want an online diary. So we just went to get the best free blog site available at Google. Oh, actually dad is setting all this up for us..., at our command. He just typed in what we said. Neat eh? Very soon, we will take over from Dad all on our own. Our blog will let you in onto our life, especially on our favourite past time, that is, travelling. Mostly travelling around Sabah Borneo I guess as we want to introduce Borneo to you, show our photos to friends and our cousins in Australia, America, and...

TESSY: Carrrr, that's enough. We can talk more another time ok?

CARMEN: Okiedokie then. Happy reading everyone.

TESSY: I hope all of you will enjoy reading our blog. Thanks.