Malaysia Airlines To Fly Airbus A350

Malaysia Airlines has settled on the Airbus A350 as a cornerstone of its future fleet, signing a lease agreement for four of the advanced jets to begin flying from late 2017.

The A350-900s will be sourced through Air Lease Corporation, in a deal which also sees the Malaysian flag-carrier holding lease options for two more A350-900s as well as two A330-900neo aircraft.

The delivery timeframe spans from the fourth quarter of 2017 to the middle of 2018, and will see the A350s fitted with new business class seats which the airline describes as having "very large dimensions, and will be positioned above the industry standard for business class."

"The A350 is the most technologically advanced aircraft and we are confident that it will deliver exceptional passenger comfort and improve the overall efficiency of our fleet" said Malaysia Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer Christoph Mueller in welcoming the deal.

'Efficiency' is a word set to echo through the halls of Malaysia Airlines as Mueller works to re-invent the troubled airline through what he describes as "hard reset" program.

This has already included plans to 6,000 jobs from its 20,000-strong workforce, putting two near-new Airbus A380s and four Boeing 777-200ER jets up for sale, and embarking on a series of lounge closures including Singapore and Perth.

MAS has racked up debts approaching $1.5 billion since 2011, with a dire situation worsened by last year's twin tragedies of the disappearance of flight MH370 and the shooting down of MH17.

The airline was nationalised in late 2014 by Malaysia's government-owned investment arm Khazanah Nasional, which has pledged a US$2 billion injection to fund the dramatic restructure aimed at returning the airline to profitability by 2017.

Seriously! Fuck You Cancer!

I always try to see the very best part of life has to offer. Perks of having cancer after so long. You tend to just shut down every single thing that don't really affects you. But what will you do when the tables were turn? 

Living with cancer is one thing. After you have accepted the fact that you are living with cancer for so many years, for the best and worst of things could get. I am thankful for the part where life has been very kind to me. No doubt there are times where it was really bad. But when you are just comfortable with what things are to be, things changes all over again.

There are a million questions running through my head right now and I can't even seem to get things right. The constant change I have to be prepared of. I know I would sound really stupid by saying this but when too many good things happened around me, I get terrified. In fact right now, I'm shaken to my core. My gut feeling is telling me one thing but the reports are telling me another. 

For the first time in a long time, I really do wish that nothing has changed. Maybe for a little while longer. I am afraid of losing everything, I am afraid of going through all these alone. I know being remission is great, but it is still too good to be true. These 7 years hasn't been all smooth, but I can't say that I am suffering either. 

So yea, FUCK YOU cancer! It's though screwing me over isn't enough, now you wanted to turn up a notch to spice up my life a little? I am happy. I accepted the fact that what my life could be living with it. I just wanted some peace of mind. I do not wanna worry. I do not wanna be in constant fear. I really have too much to lose. I am not ready. I don't even know what life could be after this. It's too drastic. I needed time. I don't even know what's going on in your head. I don't even know what you are thinking. 

I'm.... Lost... Just sometimes.. I wish life has an easier way to deal with. . . I just don't wanna lose anything at this very moment..  

Emirates 2-Class 615 Seater A380 Service to Kuala Lumpur

Emirates today (28JUL15) continues to roll-out Airbus A380 schedule adjustment. Planned A380 service resumption on Dubai – Kuala Lumpur route, EK342/343, remains unchanged effective 01JAN16, however the airline will now be operating 2-class 615-seater Aircraft, instead of 3-class.

EK408 DXB0245 – 1345KUL 77W D
EK346 DXB0410 – 1515KUL 77W D
EK342 DXB1015 – 2125KUL 388 D
EK344 DXB2155 – 0855+1KUL 77W D

EK343 KUL0110 – 0430DXB 388 D
EK409 KUL0945 – 1255DXB 77W D
EK345 KUL1100 – 1420DXB 77W D
EK347 KUL1910 – 2230DXB 77W D

Source : Airline Route

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines' New Boeing 787-9 Business Class

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will begin flying the first of 10 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in October 2015, featuring the airline's new World Business Class seats.

The seats lie fully-flat, with a 1-2-1 layout so that every passenger is one small step away from the aisle plus a large side storage area and 16 inch HD video screen.

The design sees each seat covered in a different shade of KLM's warm base palette, with large pillows and blankets for when it's time to bed down.

"The design of the interior of the aircraft creates a typically KLM mood, layout and character onboard the Boeing 787-9" the airline says.

"The point of departure for the cabin interior was to maximise comfort and privacy for passengers, while maintaining KLM’s brand values."

30 of the World Business Class seats will be installed at the pointy end of the plane.

Also on offer: KLM's first inflight Internet service, which has recently been trialled on other aircraft in the fleet.

KLM hasn't shared any photos of the economy seats, but says they recline 40% more than their current counterparts, and also feature an 11 inch HD touchscreen and USB power socket.

So when will KLM's Boeing 787 Dreamliner take to the skies, and where will it fly?

The inaugural is pencilled in for October 25 from Amsterdam to Abu Dhabi and onwards to Bahrain, although the roster shows subsequent runs starting November 2015 to Cairo and Xiamen, with Fukuoka, Rio de Janeiro and Chengdu in early 2016, followed by Tokyo and Shanghai mid-year.

Next Stage?

Leo   : Baby, my friends asked me when are we getting married.

Ric    : Hmm.. So what did you say?

Leo.  : I didn't. But I don't think it's a problem for us. I could just marry you anytime. 

Ric    : really? Are you sure?

Leo.  : yea.. I think so.

Ric.   : ok, lemme ask you these few questions.

Leo.  : shoot

Ric.   : is your career stable now? Do we both have enough reserve? Let's not talk about kids first, just the two of us. Do we have enough insurance to cover all? How does do we go with my medical expenses? Where should we settle? New York or L.A.? Does our house whole income enough for mortgage? What are the carreer options? Can we make ends meet?

Leo.   : (-.....-) ok noted. 

Ric.    : don't get me wrong, I will marry you one day. It's just there are a lot more to think about and a lot we gotta do to make things happen. What if things goes side ways? And so far in our relationship, we are still having our honeymoon period even after nearly a year now. I know sooner or later, that will come. I just want us to build up a stronger foundation before we proceed to the next stage. I don't want us to one day come to a relationship fumed with resentment. I want us to have a strong and beautiful relationship so our kids one day will grow up in a loving environment.

Leo.  : You know that I love you and hate you at the same time right?

Ric.   : I do know that. :P

                           

Just a very typical type of conversation we usually have. Surprisingly, it's still all lovey-dovey till today. It is all kinds of weird but I will take that as a win. Being in love with your best friend does really helps. We know each other in and out and there is literally nothing to hide. You don't have to impress each other. You are just being really comfortable with each other. Things are a lot easier.

As i think now things are progressing well between us. Him juggling with his new position, means more working hours and responsibility, and me... Mostly just coping with chemo and treatments as studio time is not in the books this year as of now. I thought why not slowly introduce him into my family. Mom has the idea and kept asking me about Leo from time to time. Things would go smoothly I hope. We booked a family trip to Cambodia next year. Yes, a family trip with Leo together. All mom's reaction was,

You both get one extra room, you give me the suite and you two stay in deluxe room.

How epic my mom can be sometimes. But I'm glad things are really working out. Yes there would be bumps , and coping with my cancer and him working may be tough at times, but we make do. I wouldn't say our relationship is the easiest of all, but compromisation is the thing we that is sticking us together. Even we know each other in and out, but we are totally opposites. The food he loves, I hated it, vice versa. Music he loves, and what I love is totally off. Things he loves doing on free time and what I love doing doesn't sync. The only similarity we have is... Yes you read it right, it's singular.. DURIAN! 

I guess the only thing I wouldn't compromise is when we get married, I would want to be registered in New York. There is no way I wanted my kids to be a Californian. New Yorkers all the way. Lol.. I'm just saying, cause I know you will be reading this anyhow. 

Well, as life always be. Nothing is predictable and smooth. It's just how we make the best of what we can have. Marriage is more than just a verbal commitment to me. I want us to be ready for that. I love you and that's a fact, but we should take one step at a time. For what is worth, we already named our kids even before we are having them. I would wanna for once in my life, make that dream come true with you. 

Yours, #3 Always - Muscle

Starwood To Open First St Regis in India

Starwood Hotels and Resorts has announced it will open it first St Regis property in India later this year.

The St Regis Mumbai will occupy the building currently home to the Palladium Hotel in the city's Lower Parel neighbourhood.

Due to open in the third quarter after an "extensive" rebrand, the 38-storey hotel will contain 386 guestrooms, including 60 suites.

Facilities will include an all-day dining restaurant, four specialty restaurants, a club lounge, three bars, a swimming pool and a fitness centre.

There will be over 5,200 sqm of meeting and event space including a 4,200 sqm ballroomn.

Jim Petrus, global brand leader at St Regis, said: "Starwood is maintaining strong growth momentum in the region and the arrival of St Regis in Mumbai reinforces our commitment to growing our luxury portfolio in this important market."

St Regis Mumbai is owned by Pallazzio Hotels & Leisure.

Starwood currently operates 43 hotels in India, with an additional 37 in the pipeline.

Earlier this year, the group announced plans to open more than 40 new properties across Europe in the next five years, including four St Regis hotels in 2015.

Avianca Brazil Join Star Alliance July 22

Avianca Brazil will join the Star Alliance network July 22, Star CEO Mark Schwab has confirmed at a press briefing in Warsaw.

“We have been working on an [airline] solution in Brazil for some time now,” said Schwab, adding that Avianca Brazil has fulfilled all membership requirements.

Avianca Brazil operates to 24 airports in Brazil, CEO Jose Efromovich said. The carrier offers 210 daily flights within Brazil from its hubs at São Paulo, Guarulhos, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia and Salvador.

“Currently we operate a fleet of 41 aircraft, including one Airbus A330F. Our last Fokker 100 will leave the fleet in August, and then we will become an all Airbus operator,” Efromovich told ATW. The fleet includes Airbus A318/319/320s. After the Fokker 100s leave the fleet, the average age of the fleet will be reduced to four years.

Avianca Brazil carried more than 7 million passengers in 2014 and expects the number to rise to 8.6 million this year. “In 2014, we had a load factor of 84% with a market share in Brazil of about 9.8%,” Efromovich said, adding the carrier has concentrated on increasing frequencies to current destinations instead of extending the network in recent years.

Avianca Brazil is 100% owned by the Synergy Group. Avianca Colombia was its mentor for the joining process.

Star Alliance may need an additional carrier in Brazil after TAM left the alliance for oneworld last year.

“We are a talking to a second carrier in Brazil,” Schwab said without giving details, although industry analysts speculate that talks with Azul could be possible.

Star Alliance currently offers 1,321 destinations and 18,500 daily flights (excluding Avianca Brazil).

What Is Coming In September 2015?

From one of my spies, there will be something brewing. Yes routes are cut and frequencies are reduced, but some of the equipment (Aircrafts) changes are temporary but some are permanent.

Most are cancelled mid August. Time to repaint some aircraft and refurbish the 330s in time for a September relaunch. Recaro or Zodiac? Well, I will update more once I have more details. Plus, It seems that during the school holiday Nov-Dec 15 period, the 388s have been lined by to do charters KUL-JED and KUL-MED. That's about 20hrs roundtrip. Stay tune.

Below are some changes made this coming Aug. 

Malaysia Airlines this week adjusted its inventory, which sees further downsizing to its operation. Majority of these changes will begin from August 2015.

Kuala Lumpur – Brisbane

eff 09AUG15 1 daily service cancelled, currently operated by A330-300

Kuala Lumpur – Guangzhou 

eff 15AUG15 Service reduce from 2 to 1 daily, MH380/381 cancelled

Kuala Lumpur – Ho Chi Minh 

eff 15AUG15 Service reduce from 4 to 3 daily, MH760/761 cancelled (Except 31AUG15)

Kuala Lumpur – Hong Kong
eff 01AUG15 MH072/073 operated by Boeing 737-800, replacing 777-200ER (Overall 4 daily 737-800)
eff 15AUG15 Service reduce from 4 to 3 daily, MH448/449 cancelled

Kuala Lumpur – Male 

eff 23AUG15 1 daily service cancelled, currently operated by 737-800

Kuala Lumpur – Manila 

eff 15AUG15 Service reduce from 5 to 4 daily, MH708/709 cancelled

Kuala Lumpur – Perth 

eff 15AUG15 Service reduce from 12 to 7 weekly, MH127/126 cancelled

Kuala Lumpur – Siem Reap 

eff 17AUG15 Service reduce from 7 to 5 weekly, Day 14 cancelled

Kuala Lumpur – Taipei Taoyuan 

eff 15AUG15 Service reduce from 2 to 1 daily, MH408/409 cancelled

Kuala Lumpur – Yangon 

eff 18AUG15 Service reduce from 14 to 11 weekly


Link: Airline Route

Down Memory Lane

Walking down memory lane sometimes could be beautiful, but sometimes things can get ugly. At a certain point in my earlier years, there were these people that molded me in what I am today. But the way wasn't always sweet and easy. There are a lot of things that happened due to what I've done. At some point, it was just a mere distant memory.

But sometimes, when you were simply having too much free time. You switched on your Facebook and look back to some of the people that you once walked together with in the past. Some memories put a smile on you, some memories just brings up that sick feeling under your skin. There were so much things that went on and on in your head, and at a certain point, you just feel like you are out of breath. 

I can't even recognize the person I once was. I lived under the skin of a mere fraction of my imagination. I do not even know how to love a human being. I did so many wrongs I wished some of them I never even had done it in the first place. I became the person I hated, and I was so afraid of losing the one person I use to want. The fear, drives me over the edge. I really hated myself for what I've done hurting those I use to care for. 

It is way past the point for an apology, or forgiveness. We eventually just move forward no matter how much we didn't want to. Yet today, I stand in a very happy place. I am not complete, but those imperfections made us what we are. No pretense, no more lies, and there isn't even the need to impress the other. We are just being ourselves. 

I do not miss the old days, but I really felt awful to have done the things that I've done. Life always has its way of bringing us to a place where we deserve. Everything I have now, I wouldn't wanna jeapordize any part of it. I've paid my dues and its time to let go of that baggage. I love you, and it would be all that matters to me right now. 

New Malaysia Airlines On It's Way

Malaysia Airlines’ new CEO Christoph Mueller is wasting no time getting his beleaguered airline back on track. The airline is “bankrupt”. A third of its workforce is to be made redundant. Its fleet is to be trimmed and routes abandoned. Its operations are to be transferred to a new holding company.

Today, it has a new shareholder, the Malaysian sovereign wealth fund Khazanah, replacing the government. Its staff have new contracts. New management is in place. Shortly, the company will transfer its Air Operator’s Certificate from the old MAS to the new MAS, and it has already applied to IATA to transfer its MH airline code. Additionally, new cabins are to be installed in the widebody fleet it keeps.

At a press conference today, Mueller outlined how he expects the MAS phoenix to rise from the ashes of a significant period of ineffectual management, on top of which came the MH370 and MH17 disasters.

“In aviation terms, MAS as we know it is leaving its cruising altitude and preparing itself for a safe landing,” Mueller said. “We are technically bankrupt, and that decline started before the tragic events of 2014.” 

The airline will be looking at its route network and ensuring it operates the right aircraft on the right services. Despite having put its Airbus A380 fleet on the market, Mueller expects to fly these aircraft on the Kuala Lumpur-London route, although it is clear that the 12h35m eastbound and 13h30m westbound flight timings mean that additional shorter routes (perhaps to and from Australia) will be needed if the aircraft is to be profitable. MAS will keep its fairly middle-of-the-road first class cabin on these routes, at least to begin with.

The Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 fleets that form the backbone of MAS longhaul operations have been in need of an upgrade for some time, especially in business class. That’s coming, with the current angled lie-flat seats due to be replaced by beds that Mueller promises will be a significant improvement and “above the industry standard”. That would have to be a fully flat bed with direct aisle access at least, and likely an outward herringbone of some sort.

Malaysia Airlines’ cabin interiors

Look also for the relatively generous pitch in economy class to either be reduced or more heavily featured in advertising. Given the success of Singapore Airlines, it would seem that there is a niche for premium carriers with firm cost control and keen pricing in southeast Asia.

Overall, costs need to come down by 20 percent. Part of that will come from a slash in vendors: MAS currently has 20,000 vendors, and Mueller reckons that the figure needs to be reduced to 2,000 or 2,500.

Staff costs are also a significant proportion of this restructuring. Mueller noted that airlines are “queueing” to take MAS pilots, but it’s uncertain how many of the other 6,000 members of staff will also be snapped up. While Mueller noted that he doesn’t expect all of the 14,000 job offers the new MAS has made to be taken up — for reasons including the fact that staff may already have been made offers with other airlines — MAS is a critical part of the Malaysian economy. The airline’s revenues last year consisted of 0.7 percent of the entire country’s GDP.

A significant amount of work will be needed for MAS’ IT systems to enable these changes. Mueller “identified significant skill gaps” in the existing systems, and it seems clear that a large proportion of the cost savings Mueller expects will come from backend and head office systems. Consolidation from its current 12 headquarters buildings to one at Kuala Lumpur International Airport will be a good start on that. As part of the cost reduction, operations will shortly be transferred to a new holding company, which Mueller likened to the US process of Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

The rest of the initial work should be completed by September, Mueller said. His end goal? “To end up finally with a profitability that is sustainable”, and not before time.

As Warwick Business School Professor Loizos Heracleous put it, agreeing with Mueller’s assessment: “As a legacy state owned carrier, Malaysia Airlines has had some constraints in terms of optimising routes, staffing levels and general operatioanl efficiency. The tragic events of last year only hastened restructuring actions that sorely needed and should have been taken a long time ago.”

Sheraton Pulls Out In Langkawi

Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort will discontinue its affiliation with Starwood Hotels & Resorts when its management agreement ends on June 1. The property will be renamed Century Four Points Resort, and be managed and operated by Century Four Points Resort, said its acting general manager - group of hotels, Peter Athan. Owned by Mashyur Mutiara, the resort has been linked to Starwood Hotels & Resorts since it took on the Sheraton name in 1991. Athan said that he would stay on with the property and there would be no changes to top and middle management staff going forward, while all confirmed bookings will be honoured. Describing the property, Yap Sook Ling, managing director of Asian Overland Services Tours & Travel, said: “It is a lovely property. The set-up and layout is very nice and we don’t have issues with the service. However, the rooms need to be renovated.” Another inbound travel consultant, Ally Bhoonee, executive director of World Avenues, agreed that the hotel needs a facelift if it were to maintain its five-star rank and compete in the international marketplace. He said: “It will also make it easier for travel consultants to market the hotel if it is up to the standard of a five-star hotel.” But asked if there were any plans to renovate the hotel, Athan replied: “Not at the moment.”

Singapore Airlines SG50 Livery

Singapore Airlines has unveiled a special livery celebrating the nation's Golden Jubilee that will feature on two A380s until the end of the year.

The themed superjumbos will be flown on the carrier's London, Beijing, Hong Kong, Mumbai, New Delhi, Shanghai, Sydney and Zurich routes from early June.

The livery includes a ten-metre-tall and 47-metre-long Singapore flag design on both sides of the fuselage, while the two inboard engines are adorned with the official "SG50" logo.

SIA chief executive Goh Choon Phong said: "Singapore Airlines' success is closely tied to the success of Singapore. What better way to celebrate SG50 than by proudly flying the national flag around the world on the world's largest aircraft."

Last week, it emerged that SIA will introduce a new generation of A380 first class suites and business class seating in 2017.

The airline also showed off its forthcoming premium economy seat at a media event in Singapore.

singaporeair.com

British Airways Puts Kuala Lumpur Back On The Route Map

British Airways, the national flag carrier of the United Kingdom, has recommenced its London to Kuala Lumpur service after a 14-year gap with its inaugural flight arriving today at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

The daily service from Terminal 5 will be operated by a four-cabin Boeing 777-200ER, featuring 12 seats in First, 48 in Club World, 32 in World Traveller Plus and a further 127 in World Traveller.

Flight BA33 landed in Kuala Lumpur International Airport on May 28, 2015. British Airways last flew to the Malaysian capital in 2001.

Speaking at the inaugural flight arrival ceremony at KLIA here today, British Airways Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific Area General Manager Jamie Cassidy said the return of the airline was timely.

"Malaysia is now among the top vibrant economies in Asia, and the ninth most visited country in the world. It's timely, we are so happy to be back to Kuala Lumpur and are keen on helping Malaysia continue its success story," he said.



Daily flight Details:
Outbound - BA033
Depart Heathrow, T5 at 8:15pm - arrive Kuala Lumpur at 4:00pm (12 hours 45 minutes flight time)

Inbound – BA034
Depart Kuala Lumpur at 11.05pm - arrive Heathrow, T5 at 5:25am (13 hours 20 minutes flight time)

*The lead-in fares from Kuala Lumpur to London Heathrow are:
• World Traveller: MYR3696
• World Traveller Plus: MYR5390
• Club World: MYR15264
• First: MYR29658

Losing My Grip

Love is wanting to help somebody be the best version of themselves.

- Julliet Barnes

Insecure - Part 008 : May 26th 2015

Listening to "Photograph" and looking back time. It started beautifully, and I kicked on a sharp edge and I bled. Love can heal, love can mend your soul. Certain things get easier, certain things is just trying. There are things I can't talk to anyone in my life. I didn't want anyone to see things differently. But now I think everything is just boiling up to a point I can't handle it myself. 

No one is perfect, and I am thankful for your imperfections. I no longer stand from outside the circle and I can't see everything that was going on clearly. I use to depend on what my gut tells me. But recently it was all gloom and dark. My mind is telling me one thing and my heart is telling me otherwise. I wished I wasn't observant. I wished I don't pay attention to small details. I wished I just don't feel everything that is drowning me. I wished I could forget the many other conversations we had. 

I am terrified of us, of you. It doesn't comes down to trust. I do trust you, more than you think I do. it is because I do, it scares me even more. You have my heart, you're capable of destroying me. The pace moving to a rhythm I can't keep up. I am telling myself that I am mistaken this time. Nothing I felt in my gut was right. Those were just cowards and they didn't even have the balls to write to me in their real identity. It was all just rubbish and I have nothing to be afraid of. But why this cold chill runs down in me? 

I wanted to learn, I wanted to just let it all go. I just wanted to remember the time when it was just so pure and beautiful. I am everywhere, and I don't know what to do. I just wanted to mend the broken in me, and living the now. I can't survive either way. I can't run away, I can't move. I can't breath and I don't know what I could do to overcome all these. I don't have a way to move forward. 

Ended Up Being About Taylor Swift

Do you ever listen to a sad song, and become emotional not because you relate to the words on your side, but because you feel like it could be the words and feelings of the other?

Sometimes I hear the emotions in the lyrics and melody, and I think… could I have caused them to feel this way? Is this “their” song? Was this what they went through, or are going through? And the thought of that is actually what makes me sad, the notion that I inflicted this, this sadness, anger, insecurity. Not that the words and message of the song reflect my feelings. (I do not take pride in this at all, it’s not a good thing. Just wondering if others feel the same)

Perhaps this is the reason why I enjoy Taylor Swift’s songs so much. (Yes, I just said Taylor Swift as my example). I’m obviously not a teenage (excuse me, 22-oo-OO-OO) blonde girl, but sometimes her songs give me a sense of what a girl in my past may have thought because of me. And it’s an intense feeling, of guilt, or regret. And isn’t that what music is supposed to do? Make you feel? So yes, I’m a fan of Taylor Swift.

Here’s one of her more recent ones that when it came out made me think … “I wonder if I was on the wrong end of this song in her life?”

Sucha good song. (btw, I would never have a problem with any girl wearing high heels. Who would??)

Accumulated

Remember when “I like you” was enough? “I like you” was the end all goal. “I like you” was the prize. Remember when “I like you” was enough?

I can pull out the journal and go to the specific page and entry when I first heard those words from the girl that I also liked. For the first time, it was mutual. For the first time, of all the people that I could “like”, she “liked” me back. At the time, I innocently called it a “phenomenon” of some sort, that two people could match this way in this world. “I like you” was enough. She became my first girlfriend. She became my first love.

Remember when “I love you” was enough? “I love you” was the epitome, all you needed. “I love you” was when you found the one. Remember when “I love you” was enough?

But that was before ex-boyfriends, before ex-girlfriends. Before her disapproving parents. Before his parents you couldn’t stand. This was before that little bad habit that grew into the most annoying thing ever. Before that little mole became all you saw. Before being cheated on by someone you trusted your life with. Before letting your thoughts stray to someone else. This was before pretending to like baseball. Before wishing he’d enjoy dancing, and sitting through musicals just to make her happy. “I love you” was enough before other “I love you’s”. “I love you” was enough before you realized “I thought I loved you.” It was enough before long distance meant seeing each other once a month. Before moving to New York because this was her only chance, or him taking the job in Auckland. Before you realized you were never going to convert. This was before he was ready for kids and I wasn’t; and even before she wanted to get married and I still missed being a bachelor. It was before we were hurt so deeply, before we hurt others so selfishly. It was enough, until it you found out, it wasn’t.

Remember when “I like you” was enough?

Some Things

Love is friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses.

- Ann Landers

You - Part 007 : April 15th 2015

Take my hand, take my whole life too

For I can't help falling in love with you

The first song I've ever send it to you before it was released worldwide. A classic beauty that was covered. An arrangement that I did thinking about us. Sometimes, I don't know if our stars are just aligned or just some things are just meant to be.

It was simple. There was nothing else in the world that could matter. The quiet understanding, the acceptance, and also the forgiving. There are many circumstances I couldn't believe I would be able to look pass and let it go. But when things went wrong, all I could think of is I am thankful that the honesty we shared are strong. Today mark a special day for the both of us. Something that I never thought was possible.

The past 3 weeks has been crazy for either of us. It reminded me when things were crazy last year for us. You would write a lot just to distract me. And lemme get lost in it. Lost myself and I am no where to be found.

I find myself being able to let go. I didn't let myself drowned in a place where only I could reach. No more bleeding, no more hiding.

When there are times I felt hurt, but the worst part is there is no one to blame. There were times I feel that why choosing a life that held on to something that is just merely an idea. Things were grey and I would let myself feel every single cut. But love changes you. It lessen the burden, it trusted you with something that no words could ever describe. And you let it unwrap you and breathe you in.

I just wanted to be thankful, I just wanted to hold on to what I am breathing in. You've been there as a friend. Your weakness is just a mere part of life and the course of growing up. I am not settling for the less perfect, as all the imperfection reflects that I am in love with a human being. They say when you fell in love, your common sense is on holiday. You were always that someone to try for, and that someone whose arms will hold you tight enough to be the reason to breathe.

I don't love you because I needed you. I need you because I love you. We are sure the worst, and we are sure the best. 

Silk Air Launches New Uniform

SilkAir has launched a new uniform design for its cabin crew. The new one-piece uniforms, which took two years to finalise, come in two variations – aqua-blue for junior crew and plum-red for senior crew. They will be launched on all flights on Apr 15 for more than 500 members of SilkAir’s cabin crew.

The launch, titled ‘SilkAir New ColoursRunway Show’, at ION Sky on Friday (Apr 10), opened with an address by Chief Executive of SilkAir, Mr Leslie Thng.

"Over the years, our uniforms have come to be a reflection of how our airline has matured and progressed to become Asia's most awarded regional carrier, with each design portraying the airline's brand strategy and philosophy relevant at that point in time," said Mr Thng.

Both variations of the uniform are accompanied by a dark blue skirt, in order for SilkAir to be synonymous and align with their role as the regional wing of Singapore Airlines.

The new uniform collection was created by local fashion designer, Alexandria Chen, a NAFA graduate who has designed uniform collections for various established hospitality brands.

“The new SilkAir uniform is stylishly cut and fitted with a defined waistline which makes it easy to wear, flexible and comfortable, allowing cabin crew the ease of movement as they carry out their duties,” said Ms Chen.

This latest uniform design marks SilkAir’s fourth uniform change since it was established in 1989. Its previous uniform changes took place in the 1990s, 1994 and 2004.

“The new design captures exactly what our brand stands for today – a blend of style and sophistication with a touch of modernity consistent with the changing times. It symbolises our goal of making every point of our customers’ experiences on-board an absolute ‘Joy to Fly’,” said Mr Thng.

One World Observatory Opens May 29th

One World Observatory today announced that its official public opening date will be Friday, May 29, 2015. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, April 8, at 10 a.m. EST

In the days leading up to the official public opening, One World Observatory will say a special thank you to New York City by hosting multiple free preview days. On Tuesday, May 26, One World Observatory will invite local school students to see the observatory, and on Wednesday, May 27, the workers that helped build One World Trade Center will be invited. On Thursday, May 28, One World Observatory will host an open house for the general public on a first-come, first-served basis. The exact details surrounding each event will be announced at a later date.

“On May 29, One World Observatory will officially open its doors to the public – offering visitors an inspiring and unparalleled opportunity to experience New York City,” said David Checketts, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Legends, operator of the Observatory. “From sweeping panoramic views, to innovative interactive exhibits, to world-class dining options, we expect One World Observatory to be the premier destination and attraction in New York City for both tourists and local residents.”

Positioned on top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere – on levels 100, 101, and 102 of the One World Trade Center building – One World Observatory will provide guests with unique, panoramic views of New York City, its most iconic sites, and surrounding waters from above 1,250 feet. A customized guest experience will complement the seemingly endless views – which evoke feelings of the City’s signature pride, hope and determination – and include exhibits and dining options, including a sit-down restaurant.

The experience will invite guests to explore all three levels, each equipped with the latest in innovative technology. Upon entry, guests will be greeted in the Global Welcome Center, where a large video board will feature salutations in an array of languages, and a dynamically generated world map will highlight the hometowns of visitors. Guests will then proceed to a pre-show program, titled Voices, which tells the personal stories of the men and women who built One World Trade Center, and Foundations, which displays facts about the very bedrock on which the building stands. Visitors will board one of five dedicated elevators, termed Sky Pods, to ascend to the 102nd floor in under 60 seconds. Immersive, floor-to-ceiling LED technology in each cab invites guests to experience a virtual time-lapse that recreates the development of New York City’s skyline from the 1600s to present day.

The Sky Pod elevators, among the fastest in the world, will bring passengers directly to the See Forever™ Theater on the 102ndfloor. The See Forever™ Theater will present a two-minute video presentation that combines bird’s eye imagery, time-lapse shots with abstract textures and patterns to present the unique rhythm and pulse of New York City to dramatic life in three dimensions.

The Main Observatory space on the 100th floor will include an interactive skyline “concierge” – City Pulse – that allows guests to deeply connect with the landmarks and neighborhoods they observe from above. At City Pulse, global ambassadors will be stationed under a ring of HD video monitors and outfitted in gesture recognition technology, summoning imagery to the screens and providing guests with close-up views and personalized recommendations.

The Main Observatory also features the Sky Portal where guests are invited to step onto a 14-foot wide circular disc that will deliver an unforgettable view, using real-time, high-definition footage of the streets below.

One World Observatory will also offer three distinct dining options on the 101st floor available to guests with Observatory tickets, including access to curated eateries from casual café fare to seated fine-dining. Catering will be available on the 102nd floor, which will operate as a 9,300 square foot special event space with a maximum capacity of 300. The premier space will include floor-to-ceiling, uninterrupted views, high-end décor and an exclusive, customizable experience with a state-of-the-art sound system and HD projection capabilities.

Price of admission will vary. Guest admission for adults ages 13-64 will be $32. Guest admission for children ages 6-12 will be $26, and guest admissions for seniors ages 65+ will be $30. Guests 5 and under will be admitted at no charge but must have a ticket to enter. All tickets are timed admission and will be valid for a specific time and date. For best availability for summer 2015, guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance.

The Observatory is open year round. Starting May 29th until September 7th operating hours will be 9 a.m. until midnight seven days a week with the last ticket sold at 11:15 p.m. Non-summer operating hours of One World Observatory are from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. seven days a week with the last ticket sold at 7:15 p.m. Throughout the course of the year operating hours will be expanded during holiday periods such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.

As previously announced, One World Observatory will offer complimentary admission to 9/11 family members and the rescue and recovery workers who responded on 9/11 and in the months after. Admissions will be administered by the 9/11 Tribute Center, a project of the September 11th Families’ Association that brings together those who want to learn about 9/11 with those who experienced it. Visit tributewtc.org/observatoryfor more information.

Special discounts will also be offered to active and retired members of the U.S. military, with full details to be released at a later date.

Malignant

I write about the power of trying, because I want to be okay with failing. I write about generosity because I battle selfishness. I write about joy because I know sorrow. I write about faith because I almost lost mine, and I know what it is to be broken and in need of redemption. I write about gratitude because I am thankful - for all of it.

-  Kristin Armstrong

Hope - Part 007 : April 5th 2015

When there is a slightest bit of hope, don't you wanna know that? 

These are the most frequent question that almost everyone will ask me when I told them I really do not wanna know how my condition is and how things are at this very moment. There was one question that is burning in me to really wanna ask them back. 

Can you name the single worst, most malignant symptoms of terminal cancer? 

It's hope. It's recurrent. And it keeps creeping back in no matter how many times it gets ripped apart.

UM gave me hope in a phase 3 clinical trial. It failed.

NYU hope radio surgery would work. It didn't. 

And Cancer Institute Malaysia, has high high hopes for portent combinations of chemo and ablation. No go.

And every time the hope goes, it takes chunks of you with it. Until you can only find comfort in that ONE thing, that you know you can count on. 

They ask me why am I calm. I am not calm. I don't show doesn't mean I feel okay inside. They asked me to find comfort in a higher power. It's not that I do not believe. I only have this one question. Why would God let that happen, and I don't understand it. You can do everything right, and it doesn't even matter. Why.. I've been looking for answers for the past 7 years. 

There is a thing we say when someone dies. We say it to the families left behind. We say. I'm sorry for your lost. It's a pad little phrase, and an empty one. It's doesn't begin to cover what actually is happening to them. It lets us empathize without forcing us to feel their devastation ourselves. It protects us from feeling that pain. That dark, sinking relentless pain. The kind that can eat you alive. And every day, I thank God for that.

I know what it is walking into a hospital knowing that my condition is just a little to no chance of success. To do all the planning, treatments, and hoping and labor knowing in the end, it may amount to nothing, ven when it's impossible.But I know it is asked of me. If I can't do it, if I am not willing to keep looking for light in the darkest of places, without stopping, even it seems impossible. I will never succeed. 

I can't get too close to just wanna give up. If I felt even a little of the love, the joy, and the hopes that my love ones are saying goodbye to, I wouldn't even able to function. Sometimes, I just wanna look you in the eye, tell you to " just take me home. Take me home, take me to bed and just hold me. "

That some little bit of support, some bit of peace, some bit of closure. Something good. Some little piece of beauty in the mist of some place dark. An unexpected gift. Just when it needed most. That was that one thing that happened - You.

These few weeks hasn't been great for us. I know that you have been the light for me every single day. Keeping my smile going even when things are so bad. You kept my hopes up when I have lost them. You kept the optimism going when I have none to begin with.  You are the one thing good I have now. You are the one thing that keeps me from not believing things are bad. You are aart of that support that I always wanted on top of what I already had. You kept me going forward. 

But there is one thing I hope you'll read it here. The one thing you and I always avoided. If things goes the way we didn't expect to go... Remember this.. And I will keep on fighting on until I draw my very last breath of air. 

You have lost somebody. And you are hurting. But you will get through this. You can survive this. You are strong. It's okay. You are gonna be okay. I promised. And I will always be the one to tell you " Niey " before you go to bed. #3 always. 

Waiting Game

I sit here, and wait. I'm waiting to see if the lab work on Monday will give us any indication as to what's causing this. We wait, because it's mainly a process of elimination to figure out what the hell is going on inside my body. Some of you may have guessed that no news isn't always good news, especially in my world. It's been a rough couple of days - I'm not going to lie.

My lab work wasn't good. My CEA is up to 25.something. I can't even remember anymore. And, the more acute issue that I wasn't even aware of? My platelets are dangerously low.

When I went in to meet with my Dr on Saturday, it was pretty obvious we had issues. When they all walk in with "that look", you know it's not to share good news. While we are concerned that my CEA has spiked (which I hate hate hate hate), the platelets is a bigger issue. Typically, your platelet count should be at 150k. On Wednesday, mine were at 13k. They were pretty surprised that I was still standing. After some discussion, it was decided that I would have a transfusion of platelets, with the hopes that it would boost my numbers and jump-start my production.

As luck would have it, that didn't happen. The platelet transfusion was simple, about a 90 minute process from start to finish, once they had the blood type-and-screen done.

Decision was made to wait until Saturday (yesterday) to take blood again, to make sure my numbers bounced back to normal. I think we all assumed that my numbers would rebound.

When nurse walked in yesterday and said my Dr. would be in momentarily, I knew things weren't good. She let me down easily. My platelets were at 3k. 147k below where they should be. I didn't even know what to say. I was shocked. I had hoped that the numbers would rebound a little, not drop by 10k in 4 days.

To say I was upset would be an understatement.

During my meeting with my docs yesterday, it became pretty apparent that this is a huge issue. And, it's not just the fact that the numbers are low - the big concern is WHY the numbers are low. There appear to be a variety of reasons, which they are investigating.

They took 10 vials of blood from me yesterday (for a variety of tests, including 6 for a single send-out test to another lab). 10. I jokingly said that, if they stopped taking blood, maybe my numbers wouldn't drop so much. I don't think they found that funny, but sometimes humor is the only thing getting me through these obstacles.

I got a call last night that, after my transfusion yesterday, my numbers rebounded....a little. As of last night, they were up to 11k. It's better, but no where near where they need to be. And, apparently, my now my hemoglobin has dropped. I'm not even sure what that means, or what the next step for that will be.

This whole thing just sucks. I want to be mad, but there's nothing or no one to be mad at. That's very frustrating. I want to have some control over what's happening, even if it just means that eating something or taking something or doing something could help boost the numbers. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be anything I can do to help my body do what it's supposed to do. That's infuriating.

I sit here, and wait. I'm waiting to see if the lab work tomorrow will give us any indication as to what's causing this. We wait, because it's mainly a process of elimination to figure out what the hell is going on inside my body.

I asked my Dr. yesterday....what happens next. She doesn't know. We had a brief talk about continuing with chemo, which seems to be doing more harm than good. That was a hard conversation for both of us to have. Don't get me wrong - I'm not giving up. I'm just voicing what goes through my head, and wondering where we go from here.

This just sucks. My platelets are being douchebags, and I can't do anything about it. I hate that.

I'm learning to come to grips with the fact that I can't go to KL, and I am missing you very much right now. Cancelling the trip sucked. It's just another reminder of how awful this is, and how little control I have over what's going on inside my body. And at times too, I can't help to ask am I even doing right by you for letting you be here with me. I am just so confused and I have no idea what else I could do. 

Thoughts And Love

I am thankful with everyone that who wrote to me. From friends to all the survivors out there. I think one thing we have in common that is we know that this will be a very lonely and tough path to stroll through. I am really sorry that I haven't had the chance to sit down and write back to all of you one by one. 

I promise once things are better, I will take the time to write back to each and everyone of you. I am just thankful I have all the blessings and prayers from y'all.

1. Nancy Nelson March 18, 2015 at 11:11 pm

   You are a survivor and such a trouper Ricky!!! Things will get better with time.

2. James and Susan Heldstab March 19, 2015 at 1:00 am

   Rick this is great that you are posting a blog. Our thoughts and prayers are with you! Keep up the faith:)
3. Darcy Fredrickson March 20, 2015 at 12:33 am

   Eric, so sorry to hear your news. Heard of your surgery and hope that all is well. You are a survivor and things will get better they just take time. Be patient and let your partner help you along the way. Hoping to see you out on that bicycle sometime this summer.
4. steven lambert March 21, 2015 at 1:08 am

   Sory to hear about the cancer .Hope everything turns out for the best.I AM SURE IT WILL.To help things a long I wll say a prayer for you.
5. Sue Cody March 24, 2015 at 1:20 am

   Hi Ricky,
   Wow so sorry to hear that you have to fight with this awful disease. Can’t believe it came up again so suddenly. You are a strong man and I know you will be able to kick this. You are a survivor alright! Hope to get down to see you sometime soon. Will you be doing treatments also? Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
6. Willis Lee March 25, 2015 at 2:12 am

   Glad to hear everthing is coming along for the best. I feel that you are a strong fighter. Follow the Doctors orders and pray and every will be alright. Willis.
7. Julie Monson March 25, 2015 at 4:36 am

   Hi Eric,
   I heard about the cancer from Jason. I’m so sorry you have to go through this AGAIN, but with the Lord and Leo on your side, you can face anything. You’ve always had a great attitude and I’m sure that your sense of humor makes it easier for all of you. Kevin & I have been praying for you. 

   Julie
8. Sister Barb March 26, 2015 at 12:55 pm

   Need an update, even though I talk to you somewhat regularly

   
   
9. Ilka Flood March 27, 2015 at 11:34 pm

   Hi Eric,

   I am so very sorry. That must be a scary feeling. You know, medicine has advanced so much in recent years and from what I read chances of surviving this form of cancer are pretty high when it is caught. So keep thinking positive!

   You are in my thoughts and prayers.

   Ilka
10. Steve King March 27, 2015 at 11:57 am

    eric, i am a computer idiot. finally found this to reply to you. i don’t think my emails to the frontier deal are getting through, also, i clicked on the contact button and sent you something in there. i hope you get it somehow, it was really good stuff, ha, ha.
    thinking of you all the time. read your “Live Today With My All Series” you are a very inspirational person.
    nothing can help you more than your attitude and you have the best. just wanted to let you know i’m trying to reach you dang it! guess i could call but never know when is best and my fingers don’t fit into that rotary dial anymore.
    take care and prayers are always being said.
    Steve
11. nick catricala March 27, 2015 at 2:12 pm

    Hey Eric,
    thanks for all your automatic emails messages about airliners… I am exploring your blog here and I come across this page… HOW ARTE YOU DOING these days? My wish is that you are doing well in every way and in the event that your health side is not going as great as you want… please connect with me… I have some info that may be of interest to you in regard to colon cancer (nothing to buy…)

    Thanks again for all your messages and look forward to chat with you in person soon.
    _nickc

    
    
12. John Rollow March 28, 2015 at 6:56 pm

    I just happened on your site here in the group and noticed the colon cancer tab. Where are the posts on your process with that?

    I am a colon cancer survivor. Spring 1996 diagnosed, had surgery, followed by chemo and radiation therapy. Have a colostomy. But healthy and cancer free (at least from that one).

    I’ve also had a heart attack and now diabetic neuropathy. And my life style keeps getting healthier and healthier as I learn more about what a healthy life style really is (altho my whole life was a pretty healthy one).

    Best of luck. Keep posting.