Good Morning everyone from Venice…………..a sunny Venice ………….. yippeeeeeee.
The day started at 7 am when Heidi awoke to send the tours on their way. I had not been in the doghouse for a few days but that was about to change when she discovered that I had used the last bit of toothpaste and had not opened another tube which in Heidi’s book is one below mass murder on the doghouse scale………….so my day started doing time with the Spaniels and Poodles.
Then, at 9:30 am a water taxi came to the Carnival Freedom and took Heidi and I and Duncan the Hotel Director back to see how the Queen Victoria was shaping up as she nears her delivery date. This was an amazing experience yet again and I will be writing my review of that trip in the next 48 hours ……………..it will be worth the wait I promise.
It was during the tour of The Cunard masterpiece that my cell phone rang. It was Alison, Alan’s wife. The doctors had examined Alan and decided that they could not wait any longer and that they were going to admit him that day and tomorrow morning perform a 7-hour surgical procedure. This really but a damper on my day and I admit that it was hard to take everything in that my guides were explaining to me about the incomparable ship I was visiting ……………..I must admit my mind and my heart were with Alan. However, I carried on regardless and the British Stiff Upper Lip really came in very useful. I purposely did not tell Heidi until we left as I knew she would be upset and would not be able to hide her emotions. One good thing………….when I did tell her about Alan I was immediately freed from the doghouse. …………………. thanks Alan.
Anyway, this will be the first of two major operations he will undergo. The second one I will be home for and by the time you read this, Alan should be out of surgery and in recovery. Your continuing thoughts for a chap who is one of the kindest most sincere family orientated and ugly man you will ever meet are so appreciated…………………thank you all so much
Here are today’s photos and as you can see they have a theme ……………….sister’s…………..here they are.
1. THE EURODAM – HOLLAND AMERICA’S NEW SHIP DUE TO BE LAUNCHED IN JUNE 2008
2. THE CARNIVAL FREEDOM, THE COSTA MEDITARANEA
3. THE COSTA MEDITRANEA, THE CARNIVAL FREEDOM, THE EMERALD PRINCESS
4. THE QUEEN VICTORIA
5. THE EURODAM AGAIN
Here are today’s letters from the In Their Own Words Section. Have a look at the letters about the two sisters. Each had written into the morning show saying how special their sisterly love was to each other following the loss of their husbands. They were very special letters and I enjoyed interviewing them both on the Morning Show.
Here is the Joke of the Day
A turtle was walking down an alley in New York when he was mugged by a gang of snails. A police detective came to investigate and asked the turtle if he could explain what happened.The turtle looked at the detective with a confused look on his face and replied “I don’t know, it all happened so fast.”Ok, today, is one of those days where I ask your kind permission to answer only the comments with questions attached. I have read every single comment and I am continuously grateful for everything that you have all taken the time to write. However, I once again have 100-plus comments to answer and I just don’t have the time today. I again will make sure on the next blog I catch up and answer every single one.
Anyway, here we go with some Q and A. To skip the Q&A, click here.
FREDDY BEACH – Hello Freddy. I am sure you are very excited to come and cruise on October 16. I have forwarded the request you made to our Maitre D Dino who will do his best to accommodate you. I am sure you will love your table and of course the service and I will be making sure you have great entertainment and fun. Please drop me a note when you board so I can call and say hello. All the best and see you soon.
TERRY DUNNING – It looks like your wish will come true Terry as I will be joining you on the Carnival Splendor so we can celebrate Dotty and Bob’s 50th anniversary together. I am really glad that you have discovered the blog thingy and I hope it will keep you going until the next time you cruise. Best regards from us both and please keep reading the blog.
LINDA THE MOUSE – I actually thought of you as I was writing about Mickey and his kingdom and hoped that you would not be offended at what I had to say. In answer to your question, yes, I did visit Epcot and I was astounded by what I saw and the British Pub was very authentic, especially the Yorkshire Pudding. Heidi really likes the German place and overall we had a fantastic time. Please pass our regards to your friend. Hope you enjoyed your dinner. All the best and see you soon.
JOKO JOAN – Thank you for your prayers for Alan. We all appreciate your thoughts very much. Thank you for the very funny story about Venice and I imagine 7 days in the same clothes was not pleasant and fancy having your mum there. Sorry your first posting got lost so I wanted to make sure that this one got a well-deserved reply. Our best to you.
BILL ZYDECOCRUISER – Thanks for the cartoons mate, how kind of you. I am not sure I understand your question about the Carnival Pride. What information would you require? I understand about the black pudding. Have you ever had Haggis?
BRIAN SWANSON – Brian, I am actually happy to tell you that I am changing the time of our TA bloggers party. The reason I am doing this is so that people can still attend the Travel Talk which Todd will perform at 4:30pm. I need to be there to help him. Therefore, we will have the party in between the dinner seating’s at 7:30pm – 8:30pm and I have added your cabin to our invitation list. Hope this is ok with everyone.
CHRISTIE 100 – Chris Prideaux did mention to me yesterday that he had received your package for Heidi. She will be very excited to receive her Starbucks mug from Hawaii and the other goodies you mentioned. Thank you so very much, you are so kind.
SHERYL PELTON – Heidi says a big thank you and she is so grateful for everything you have done for her. Hope you are enjoying the blog today and we miss you.
BILL ZYDECOCRUISER – Carnival Splendor is now on sale Bill. Are you coming?
BIG ED – You are right, three quarters of a million slaps, that really does sound fantastic. How many postings have you made? Any idea? See you in 100 days, the thong is waiting……
JO MYERLY – Yes, I was a little ahead of myself but the Carnival Splendor July 2 sailing should now be ready for purchase. I wish I could show all of you my hometown and Amsterdam. Hope you and Dave are well.
DIVETRASH – I have had many adventures in the bathroom and it seems you have as well. You and I have a lot in common. The “Little Ambassador” has sent postcards to the school from Venice and Naples so far with more adventures to come. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us and as always, it is great hearing from you. The only thing Big Ed will be wriggling his way out of will be the thong itself. Tickets are on sale for $1 for the back row, the front row is FREE.
LV2CRUISE – You soon be on the Carnival Miracle. You asked what my favorite things are to do in your ports of call. Let me give you my one or two “must not misses.”
1. St. Lucia – You must not miss seeing the Pitons. These beautiful landmasses rising out of the Caribbean water and surrounded by gorgeous beaches are visited on many of our tours.
2. St. Maarten – St. Maarten is divided into 2 sides. The ship will dock on the Dutch side where the people are warm and friendly. The other side of the island is French, where the people are ……………..well, ……………French. Seriously, downtown St. Maarten has fantastic shopping and great bars and restaurants, the nicest beaches are on the French side and Orient Beach is my favorite. Unfortunately, I have never been to St. Kitts. However, I will ask the Cruise Director on the Carnival Miracle what he recommends and will post this reply ASAP. Thank you as always for your kind comments and I hope you will have a fantastic cruise.
KEVIN – What a wonderful story and it is prove positive of the power, beauty and soul of Aston Martin. What an idiot that guy must have felt, congratulations. I have forwarded your cabin number to my friend on the Carnival Miracle. I would really love some photos of the new car. Maybe you can bring it to the port and we could drape Big Ed in his thong over the bonnet and send a picture to Top Gear magazine. What do you think mate? Heidi sends her best.
BIG ED – The word you are looking for is comical robbery and Cruise Directors are masters at this.
KATHIE – Putting your wet phone in a bowl of rice sounds, well ………….. crazy. However, I will give it a go. I also use the rice thing to dry out my socks, which got wet from the bathroom floor, will this work? How wonderful that you are coming on the bloggers cruise. That has made my day and Heidi and I will be there to say Welcome Home.
LINDA HERNACKI – Just a quick note to say how thoughtful of you to think of Alan when putting your package together for us. We will see you very soon and we will be together on a cruise. Of that I am sure. Heidi and I already consider you great friends and your prayers for my best friend Alan are so welcome. As always, our best to you and Mike.
OCEAN ANGEL – I have not forgotten your request for the Fantasy pin and I will follow up on this today. I am so sorry but the walk on deck is not held on the shorter cruises but only on those of seven or more. If you have time, please send my warmest regards to the Captain and Crew and thank you so very much for being a faithful supporter of the blog thingy.
MYRA BUSHNELL – What wonderful memories you have of your Costa cruise. You are correct, the Enrico C has been sold, however, I am not sure where she is now. I love the comment about the boat drill taking place in the middle of a storm and that it was too rough to actually go to the life boats ……………is that not an oxymoron? The magician you spoke of is now a professional pickpocket, working the streets of Venice. You asked if you can climb the Leaning Tower Of Pisa? The answer is yes and providing Big Ed and myself do it at the same time we are all ok. Thank you for your thoughts for Alan and for the kind words about the blog. Maybe one day I get my Aston. Life is a dream…..
BIG ED – You know me too well. In the photo you sent me, I saw a big truck. Was that yours? Are you a trucker?
ADRIAN J COHEN – Welcome home and hearing you describe your cruise on the Carnival Freedom as “heaven” was wonderful to hear. I am glad you bought the DVD of the Welcome Aboard Show and I hope the laughter is everlasting. It was funny that you mentioned the market in Livorno as someone else spoke to me about that yesterday. I have never been but will check it out this cruise and it may be nice to recommend this to other guests. Give my kind regards to Manchester and all the best to you and the family.
DGH FROM OHIO – How kind you are. My dad is going to have to build another cupboard to Heidi can store all her Starbucks mugs. She will be thrilled to know she is receiving one from your lovely city. Thank you for being so kind and our best regards to you.
NANETTEALI – Dos Puerto Ricans = Mucho Fiesta and mucho huggos. How is the family Nani? We all miss you here.
HARRY AND PHILIPPA REED – First, the bad news. My Shrimpers lost to Tranmere after winning 4 games in a row. You must be very happy though that Wrexham won. When are we playing each other? You are right, as Greavsie said “It’s a funny old game.” We will send the invitation to your cabin at the new time of 7:30 pm and look forward to meeting you very much. See you both soon.
SUE GROHOLL – See you in 18 days. Did you send me your cabin number? Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
OK, that’s all I have time for today.
Can I say a HUGE thank you to all of you who took the time to welcome Ruben Rodriguez to the family. His interview has also been passed to all the staff and crew on the ships as well as the office personnel. I am sure you are going to hear much more about this young man in the future as he helps keep Carnival Cruise Lines at the pinnacle of the cruise industry.
For now though, let’s chat about last night. I got in trouble with the Venetian Police and was threatened with arrest. Now, all of you are thinking “what the heck was he threatened with arrest for, what did he do?”……..well, I will tell you……….my television was on too loud. OK, not the T.V. in my cabin but the one on Lido deck at the Seaside Theatre.
At 9 pm last night I got a call from the gangway that a police officer wanted to speak to the person in charge of the big screen……….I guess the security officer decided that was me and made the call. Down I cam to the gangway and was told by Officer Moretti that unless the volume was turned down immediately I would be arrested……………….Bugger !
I asked who had made a complaint as there are no houses or dwellings anywhere around where the ship docks. His answer was to wave his hand up and down as though he was holding a boiled pea between his thump and 1st finger and said “I tell you the questions you do not tell me the questions” …………..and that was me in the Cane Casa (doghouse in Italian).
So, up I went to Lido to check out the sound. The James Bond movie Casino Royale had just started and it was playing at the normal level and honestly it was not really loud………just ………..well……….normal. Anyway, not wanting to share a cell with Guido and his mates I decided to turn it down so I called the Audio Visual manager (who is in charge of the big screen and if I was going down so was he) and I asked him to turn the volume down 25%. I was not sure if that was enough but for now it would have to do. I then decided to look across at the Emerald Princess to see if I could hear their movie but I could not……….maybe James the Cruise Director had already been arrested and was making sure he did not drop anything.
I never heard back from Officer Moretti and I am still confused as to who complained ashore that it was too loud………..very strange. I am not casting aspirations but we were docked opposite another cruise ship from another line – and I cannot say which one but I wonder if someone from there had complained at the volume as they sat by the fake and ugly climbing wall on the something of the seas…………but I can’t mention the cruise line. No…………surely not ………..they wouldn’t have done that…………..would they?
Just in case I just called the police and complained that one of their guests was standing on their balcony …………………………………….wearing a loud and obnoxious shirt.
Goodnight
Your friends
John and Heidi
Filed under: Catherine Zeta Jones, Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Splendor Godmother, Tales from the Ship
Just read your update on your friend and your TA bloggers party. If my flight/bus/train cooperate I will be there.
I will also bring a disk with Tony Handcock. The Goon Show and a favourite (spelled correctly) of mine’ The Best of British Comedy’. With some real oldies but goodies, Athur Askey, George Formby, Max Bygraves, Norman Wisdom and my personal favourite Tessie O’Shea plus many others. You can listen to them with your friend Allen as my contribution to his speedy recovery as laughter being the best medicine.
Brian Swanson
Hi John/Heidi/Everyone:
First, good luck to Alan during his first procedure. I will be thinking of you.
Second, what a joke. Look out for the police b/c the Lido screen is too loud? Something tells me that you would have more than 1/2 the corporate office flying out to come bail you out should you be arrested. I honestly can’t see that happening but more like he’s looking for a little “bribe” to have him walk away.
Third, great pictures today. I love it when you put new vessel pictures up there and today is no exception. Thank you!
Good luck and hope things turn out better. Smile!
David
Dear John,
Wishing all success for Alan’s surgery. With everyone wishing him well and praying for him he is now in the hands of God.
Mary
AYYY John!! Is with extreme sadness that I wrote this note today. My sister in law (Eugenio’s sister)
passed away suddenly, she was just 45 and she left 3 sons from 23 to 18.I think this is one of the worst days of my life. It is sooooo hard.But I will keep fighting for my family we have to get through this, thank you for being here my friend.
Godspeed Alan.
This is the first step on the road to recovery.
Thanks for keeping us up on things, John.
Prayers for Alan.
bg
Hello mate,
Hope this finds you and especially ALAN WELL!
Hope todays stint in his treatment was a success.
I sent a package to chris for you last week hope it made it to him now.
Everyones prayers and thoughts are with alan and his family john, and soon you’ll be by your mates side.
BASEBALL UPDATE:
4 teams left John,starting thursday Oct 11 for the
National League Championship will be:
Colorado Rockies Vs. Ariozona Diamondbacks
and Friday Oct 10 for the
American League Championship will be:
Cleveland Indians Vs. Boston Red Sox…………
Thanks again mate hope all is well and hope best for alan…
Sincerely,
matt edmunds
John–
After reading your last few blogs I’ve decided t hat Mr. Murphy has it in for you! It does seem like he always gets his way now doesn’t it?
When are y’all going on your vacation?
My thoughts and prayers continue for Alan, and I can’t wait for your next blog which will tell us that the surgery went flawlessly and he’s recovering wonderfully.
Come onnnn January 19th!!!
–Adam
Hello John: Sorry :=( to heard about Alan. I’m sure you want to be with him and his family. Hope and pray for his speedy recovery. Keep us informed of his progress.
You are a good friend and a good person even when you are in the dog house…..
We will see you soon in Miami.
Best regards to Heidi
Sincerely,
Mary & Moe
John
My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to your friend Alan and his family. You are indeed a treasured friend!!
I had previously sent you my name and cabin number for the TA Bloggers party but did not receive confirmation. In case it was eaten up by cyberspace here is my room number -#2348.
God less..
Millie Santiago
I just read about Alan I hope everything is ok. Our prayers are with him too.This is what keeps up standing my friend.Bless you!!
Hello John & Heidi
Sorry to hear that Alan had to go Swiftly into Surgery
Sending ALL of OUR prayers his way and hugs your way, and a broad shoulder to help you keep that stiff upper lip. PLEASE KEEP US UPDATED!
I’m glad you got out of the dog house, it has to be better than the Italian jail call I would imagine. been keeping up with the blog. Mr T is getting antsy, already trying to pack with 20 days left to go…That means the clothes Will be wrinkled. I’ve kept up with the blog and the Mr. Garcia & the Dirty cell duty, etc., John instead of the loud obnoxious shirt would they have come if the guest was on the balcony nude? just wondering..
Take Care
Our best to you, heidi, Alison and of Course Alan and his surgeons..
The Tuckers
John, our prayers are still with Alan. Keep us updated.
If your talking about the summere place pictures yes that is my truck. But no I’m not a BIG truck driver. Just my SUV that has now been replaced by a car that gets better MPG.
Just remember to crank the sound back up on the Lido screen. You don’t want one of your passengers going to the purser yelling I can’t hear the movie. But I still have a complaint. I can’t hear it on the webcam. LOL
“BIG” ED
102 days till the evil begins.
Decibella Giorno
I suspect that Venice has enacted a decibel ordinance and it was nice that you were allowed to make a correction.
Instead of just being hauled off.
Part of it is also that if you were to initiate too much vibration from the sound waves, you could sink Venice. And then where would you be?
Sending excursions on glass bottom boat tours.
You need a hug. Take two, they’re small. And then pass one on.
We’ll give you a batch in person on the 28th between 7:30 and 8:30 to take with you for Alan and his family.
ttfn
Hi John and Heidi,
Along with all the other bloggers, we too are praying for Alan today and look forward to tomorrow’s blog when you write how wonderfully he is doing!
You are great friends and count you among our friends as well.
hello john
first,,our prayers go out to alan,,,,hope he is doing fine,,,,i just booked a cruise on the Carnival Sensation,,,for me and jane,,,its for our 43rd
Anniversary,,,and she dont know about it,,,,
i am not to good at keeping my mouth shut,,
but hope i can.
this will be our 8th cruise this year,,,,,7 on
CARNIVAL,,,,,one on rc,,
we still LOVE CARNIVAL the best,
i ordered you a ASTON MARTIN ,,from our TAMPA dealer,,
i will bring it to MIAMI,,,for the bloggers cruise,,
hope you enjoy it,,,,
see
you soon,,,,,
regards
Tom & Jane
Dear John and Heidi,
By now I hope you have had encouraging news about Alan’s first surgery. I have included him (and you) in my prayers every night.
I haven’t stopped laughing about the woman who was upset because she rented a car online and wouldn’t be able to drive it around in Venice. Yikes! She had no idea Venice is a “floating” city with no roads on which to drive??? Which rock have these people been living under!!??
Thank you for the update on the TA bloggers’ party. We’re in cabin #8296, in case I left that off my earlier note.
Keep out of jail (and the casa canem), ’til we see you! Only 18 days to go!
Sue, Jennifer and Karen
John,
I definately enjoy reading your blog everyday and it looks like 2 Italian ports, 2 Italians who acted like they were going to put a horse’s head in your bed, lol.
But a quick question for you, I’m sailing on your Freedom from 11/24/07 to 12/1/07 and I’ve heard rumors you would be on vacation during that week. Just curious to know if you will be on there that week, if not, who will be taking your place as the Cruise Director for that week?
-Marc G.
sending a prayer for alan. there are suitcases all over my condo and it looks like a clothing explosion in here. i shall see you in six days my friend… just six more days.
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
Murphy’s law. I posted a poem yesterday and it din’t get to the blog somehow. and I didn’t cc it to myself so later I will try to remember it.
so sad alan had to go straight away for surgery. I know you will be on the edge until you hear how is. I will pray for him this evening and wish you and Heidi peace. Yours,
Kathie
Alan – Thinking of you today.
First, my prayers go to your friend Alan and his family for a quick and painless recovery.
I have been on the Paradise (this past May, it was my first cruise and I am now addicted.) and this January I am on the Carnival Pride heading to the Mexican Riviera. Have you been there? Were you ever the Cruise Director on the Pride? I am very excited for the trip. I hope to someday sail with you and Heidi, but if I don’t, I want to thank you for keeping my cruising excitement up through your blogs while I wait patiently for January 6th.
Gina
BY ORDER OF ROSCO P. COLTRANE, SHERIFF OF HAZZARD COUNTY…….
ANY MAN WEARING A THONG ON MY CRUISE SHIP WILL BE INCARCERATED 10 DAYS IN THE HAZZARD COUNTY JAIL.
WOMEN, FEEL FREE TO THONG AWAY!!!!!!!!!
SIGNED,
ROSCO P. COLTRANE
SHERIFF
Dear John
We were with you on the Freedom Sept 22 – Oct 4/07. Enjoyed the cruise immensely.
We were the couple married 30years on the 30th. You called me & we spoke about the “old” Carnivale Ship. That was our honeymoon.
You sent us a bottle of champagne, picture autographed by yourself AND the wonderful Gold Plastice Freedom Ship on a Stick. I was so thrilled.Really I was. I have seen those given out many times before, & never was lucky enough to receive one.
Anyway, you are a great Cruise Director.
We arrived home safely, but tired the late evening of Oct 4. You are right though Rome Airport is terrible & you know what so is Frankfurt Airport where our connection was. Anyway we are home & I am still checking your blog.
I had wrote to you that I felt that I knew you as I had checked your blog every day before we took the cruise.
Sincerely
Caro & Ken Lepain
Dear John
We were with you on the Freedom Sept 22 – Oct 4/07. Enjoyed the cruise immensely.
We were the couple married 30years on the 30th. You called me & we spoke about the “old” Carnivale Ship. That was our honeymoon.
You sent us a bottle of champagne, picture autographed by yourself AND the wonderful Gold Plastice Freedom Ship on a Stick. I was so thrilled.Really I was. I have seen those given out many times before, & never was lucky enough to receive one.
Anyway, you are a great Cruise Director.
We arrived home safely, but tired the late evening of Oct 4. You are right though Rome Airport is terrible & you know what so is Frankfurt Airport where our connection was. Anyway we are home & I am still checking your blog.
I had wrote to you that I felt that I knew you as I had checked your blog every day before we took the cruise.
Sincerely
Caro & Ken Lepain
Hi John: My prayers and best wishes go out to Alan and his family and to you and Heidi. PLEASE let us know as soon as possible how he is doing, you are all like family to us now, and I will be saying a special prayer for Alan tonight before bedtime. I know he is in good hands, and I will continue to keep him in our prayers for a speedy recovery and for the 2nd upcoming surgery when hopefully you will be with him! Please be sure and let us know the exact date you are leaving, and again if you can give me some idea of how long it takes a package to arrive to you from Miami, I would appreciate it as I want to mail it soon. Mike and I send a group hug to you, Heidi, and Alan and Allison. God Bless, Linda & Mike P.S. We look forward to seeing you someday soon on a Carnival ship, as soon as we know where you will be on a caribbean cruise we will book for next year (any idea where you are going to be in April/May 2008?
John and Heidi,
What a shame you had to receive the call about Alan while on tour. My prayers are with Alan for a speedy uneventful recovery and for Alison and the boys. I am sure you would much rather be there with your mate than on the ship, but at least you have many thousands of friends here to support you. We all are anxiously awaiting the post operative report. Love and hugs to you and Heidi.
Sharon
Good evening Mr. Heald. I’ve decided to call you Mr. Heald from now on until the time I met you face to face and shake your hand and only than will I call you ” John “. I’m so sorry to hear that Alan has to go into surgery immediately. My prayers and thoughts will be with him, his wife, the family, you & Heidi. I know that you & Heidi will be very worried but keep the faith, you have 3/4 million friends praying for Alan. God will definitely hear the prayers. I wonder if you could show some pictures of the different Carnival ships once in awhile? Now about the loudness at the Seaside Theatre, I’ve never heard about being too loud on a ship. Somebody must of been playing a cruel joke on you. That was just crazy especially if it was another passenger on another ship. Thanks for your support during my difficult times worrying about having cancer. What ever the future holds for me, I know I have a friend that I’ve never met but it’s nice to know that you’re there. Ciao my friend and don’t worry to much about Alan. He will come through his operation with flying colours.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
Hi John and Heidi,
I hope this post finds its way to you. I sent you a joke on the last blog and it didn’t make it through. I’m not sure why. It wasn’t bad or anything maybe it just got lost in cyberspace! Anyway I just wanted to say I’m still praying for Alan and his family and I hope all is well today after his surgery. I’m glad you managed to stay out of jail. If Alan hadn’t been in surgery, I might have wondered if he was giving you some payback from that little joke you played on him while he was on the ship. Hmmmmmmm. Maybe he and Big Ed are in league together? What do you think? Anyway I don’t want to keep you because I know you have lots to do. Say hi to Heidi for me and give her a hug.
Here’s another little joke for you. Since I appear to be beginning this process, I found this very funny.
Q: How many women with MENOPAUSE does it take to change a light bulb?
A: One! ONLY ONE!!!! And do you know WHY? Because no one else in this
house knows HOW to change a light bulb! They don’t even know that the bulb
is BURNED OUT!! They would sit in the dark for THREE DAYS before they figured
it out. And, once they figured it out, they wouldn’t be able to find the
light bulbs despite the fact that they’ve been in the SAME CUPBOARD for the past
17 YEARS! But if they did, by some miracle of God, actually find them 2 DAYS
LATER, the chair they dragged to stand on to change the STUPID light bulb would
STILL BE IN THE SAME SPOT!!!!! AND UNDERNEATH IT WOULD BE THE WRAPPER THE
STUPID LIGHT BULBS CAME IN!!! BECAUSE NO ONE EVER CARRIES OUT THE
GARBAGE!!!! IT’S A WONDER WE HAVEN’T ALL SUFFOCATED FROM THE PILES OF GARBAGE THAT
ARE A FOOT DEEP THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE HOUSE!! IT WOULD TAKE AN ARMY TO CLEAN
THIS DARNED FILTHY HOUSE!
I’m sorry…. What was the question?
Leasa
John,
Check out the new Aston Martins for 2008 along with many other cars at
http://www.seriouswheels.com/
Dave (Jo and Dave)
John our prayers are with you, Heidi and Alan at this time. Will pray doubly hard tomorrow when he is having his surgery. So glad that you did not get arrested or in anymore trouble due to the movie being too loud. When I was on the ship last week I did not think that it was too loud. Cannot believe that we have been off of the ship for 5 days now. Wish we were still there. Must go back to work tomorrow but am looking forward to seeing the women that I counsel concerning their substance abuse and mental health issues. Again, will continue to pray for Alan and a complete recovery. Bob and Catherine Ebert
Hello John and Heidi,
John, I would like to pass on our wishes to your best mate Alan for a speedy and full recovery. It does sound a bit more than daunting, but with the caliber of today’s surgeons, coupled with the amazing advancements in surgical techniques of the brain, I am certain that he will make a full recovery. My mother recently had a very hard to reach brain aneurysm. She was admitted to one of the finest of hospitals in Boston, Massachusetts. Her team of neurosurgeons performed a number of very intricate and complicated procedures (4). She has since made a full recovery with no apparent side effects. It truly is amazing what surgeons can accomplish today. I am sure Alan will be in good hands. We thought the baseball bat you received was tremendous! My wife and I are huge Red Sox fans. They now face the Cleveland Indians (as the Yankees choked yet again). We are 4 wins away from another World Series appearance… GO BIG PAPI…GO SOX!!!
Wishing you both well. Oh yeah, you can turn down the volume on a large screen television and it still looks great, but no matter what you do, you CANNOT make a fake climbing wall look anything other than UGLY.
Alan and Alison -
Our thoughts and prayers are with you – get well soon.
John -
Loud – that shirt kept me awake all last night. Across the Atlantic and through the Straits of Gibraltar and it still needed the volume turned down.
If you feel the need to leave and be will Alan – go. Do not pass go, do not collect $200. Just go. We all understand how difficult this time is for you – our thoughts and prayers are also with you and Heidi in this difficult time.
TA minus 19 days and counting.
Lookingforwardtothenearlysmokefreecarnivalfreedom
PS – does Todd smoke cigars? If so, please schedule a Havana break for me.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Alan and his family. How lucky he is to have such wonderful friends as you and Heidi!
Nuts to Officer Moretti and his petty complaints. No doubt he has a thing for ugly climbing walls and loud shirts…
I noticed someone mentioned the baseball playoffs. Gotta love the Indians from your favorite city of Cleveland, Ohio! Since I was born and raised an Indians fan, all I can say is Go Tribe!
As always, my best to you and Heidi and please keep your chin up knowing your many, many friends out here in cyberland care and share in your concerns.
John – Our heartfelt prayers are with Alan and his family. We wait patiently for an update.
Hi John,
I was gone all day and just read about Alan. By this time, I am sure you have heard more, but we will continue to pray for him. I was with a very dear friend today who had surgery for breast cancer. I can understand your concern for Alan. It is very hard to see someone who is close to you go through something life-threatening.
Note for Luv2cruise,
We went to St. Kitts a year ago. Make sure you make a stop at the Fort at Brimstone Hill. Even if you don’t enjoy walking around old forts, the view from it is absolutely fabulous! On a very clear day, you can see 7 islands. One is 40 miles away. It was worth the taxi ride and admission just for the breathtaking view!
Will be waiting to hear an update on Alan. As I also wait on an update for my friend.
John,
I’m going to start counting the amount of times the Venetian Police want to arrest you for the volume on the Big Screen. It occurred in 2005 on the Liberty. I believe they are just out to get you.
Hi John and Heidi,
I have been thinking about Alan all day and lifting him up in prayer. By now I hope today’s surgery is over and he is recovering well. I’m sorry you could not be at his side but I know your heart is with him and that’s what counts.
Nanette, please accept my sympathy on the death of your sister-in-law. I’m sorry this has been such a terrible day for you and I pray God gives you the strength you need to get through all this.
Julie
Alan, My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family.
John hang in there, a few more weeks and you will soon be with Alan.
[...] A Brush With The Law Good Morning everyone from Venice…………..a sunny Venice ………….. yippeeeeeee. The day started at 7 am when […] [...]
John,
I think a better idea would have been to turn up the volume and give that “police officer” the international salute. He was probably just some bogus rent-a-cop. As a Law Enforcement major, I have come to find out that there are indeed many more assistants and security guards especially in places like ports. If he was indeed a real cop he would have asked you nicely and would probably have investigated it himself before saying anything. Let me know if you have anymore problems mate, I’m not from Italy, but hopefully I can give you some decent advice.
-Mike L (aka BigMike)
John,
Thank you for the gorgeous pictures. Ships are pure poetry cut out of steel and fabricated by sculptors. Lovely.
You have to know that thousands of faithful bloggers are anxiously awaiting word regarding your mate, our friend, Alan. With all the prayers and well wishes I have complete faith that he’ll manage this very difficult time well.
Please keep us updated as your time permits.
Howdies to Heidi and Roberto.
Regards,
Greg
John and Heidi,
. Heidi please don’t put John in the dog house too much, he’s got way to much going on right now. Maybe a few free passes might help. Also a important phrase in italian you should learn john “Denomini prego l’ambasciata britannica ed il mio heidi della moglie per dire loro di liberarlo” That translates into “Please call the British embassy and my wife Heidi to tell them to release me.” have a great night and don’t drop the soap
I have sent you some photos of the car via the proper back channels john so be on the look out they are also on my blog if those don’t work. I’m praying for Alan for a speedy and fast recovery. Thank you for sending my info on the your friend on the Miracle I’m wondering if I should be worried about this now. is Fatima going to be lurking in my closet ? A dancer ok but please not Fatima. I think she should be at Alan’s sick bed right now I’m sure he can use some higher cleansing soon. And his best mate john too. Yes Big ED in a thong with a bonnett picture of my car might be rather amusing to see. But I don’t think my insurance company would like that too much
Kevin
John and Heidi,
First, my best to Alan and his family. I’m sure you would rather be with him, than on the Freedom right now, waiting to hear how the surgery has gone. Please let us know ASAP how he is doing! Heidi–you are so welcome! I think of you and John as family. By the way John, I will also be sending you a little something special for you to have fun with! I just hope you don’t already have one! No clues as to what it is, you’ll have to wait and see!
Sheryl
John,
My heart broke for you hearing the news about Alan. I know you wished you could have been there. I’m praying for good news tomorrow about Alan. You are such a good man…and not telling Hedi until the tour was over shows your compassion for her.
Nanette-so sorry to hear your news. I will keep you and your family in my prayers, especially the children.
John, no need for you to use your two bloody stubs to reply to me…I just wanted you to know that I’m praying for you, Hedi, Alan and his family.
Susan
John, Please let Alan know that we are all thinking of him and sending our prayers.
Hi John,
The ships look great in the photos; those are the ones I try to take whenever I’m cruising… Just how they’re designed and all that, it’s awesome.
Hope Alan is doing well.
John and Heidi,
I offered up special prayers this morning for Alan. I hope everything is going well,however, it must have been quite a shock to learn that he needed to have the first procedure done so quickly.
I am sure you wanted to be with him. You were with him, however, in spirit. That is important also.
One of the bloggers said that the majority of the corporate office would have been there to bail you out. I concur with that completely. It is hard to imagine that the big screen could have been heard on a neighboring ship. Perhaps the people on board that ship need to get a life so they will not be focusing on what is wrong with others.
ALAN,,,,,,,,GODSPEED
John,
No need to reply to this message. I just wanted you to know that you have a whole group of people here in Michigan praying for Alan and you.
Every day I read your blog knowing one day I will see good news about Alan. *hugs* Carla
John & Heidi,
All prayers with Alan and Alison, that his surgery goes well. And glad to know the British Stiff Upper Lip still comes in handy from time to time…
As for your brush with the law … makes me wonder if Officer Moretti’s reason for requiring the volume lowered was because he has yet to see “Casino Royale,” and the Freedom’s showing of same was spoiling it for him….that and the fact that some people in Italian law enforcement take a very personal, if idiosyncratic interest in WHICH laws they enforce. Or questions they tell-a you…
Again all the best to Alan and all and sundry,
j&k watts
John, in looking at the picture of THE QUEEN VICTORIA it looks like the Carnival Spirit class. With the balconies going in and out. Are the two ships of the same class?
How is Alan doing? When you go on holiday can you print a copy of the get well card and all the comments and give it to Alan.
BLOGGERS YOU CAN STILL AND A COMMEMT
just go to this link;
http://ekonefe.wordpress.com/2007/10/02/get-well-to-alan-adkins-our-mate/
“BIG” ED
101 days till we meet you ALAN
John, we are waiting to hear word on Allan’s surgery yesterday. Keeping him and his family, as well as you and Heidi, in our prayers.
Alan and Alison, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We pray for a complete and quick recovery.
John and Heidi, you are in our prayers also. We know that you will soon be at Alan and Alison’s side to help them with their family.
What a wonderful blessing for all of you – your great friendship.
Travel safely John and Heidi.
Maxine
Thanks John for your suggestions re St Lucia and St Maartin and for your willingness to contact the CD on the Miracle re St Kitts. You are so kind. I’m keeping you and Heidi, Alan and his family in my thoughts and prayers that good news will be coming soon for you all.
Thanks
Barb
hi john could you please add cabin 2470 to the bloggers party invite.met you on LIBERTY last nov. looking fwd to medon FREEDOM. how can i request ship tours thanks kevin/robin …CCers
Hi John & Heidi — did everything go okay with Alan’s surgery? I was reading the blog, and didn’t see an update, I might be jumping the gun. Hope you are holding up. I know how hard it is to be away at work, or dealing with responsibilities, that prevent you from being with the ones you cherish and love. That must eat you up — and yet I’m sure you are your usual, funny and wacky self in front of all the passengers. Way to go, John — just remember it’s okay to have a good cry once in a while. In fact, I did just last night while chopping onions….. (wink). No seriously – it does help.
Okay now, back to business: I hope you remembered my group of 50 coming aboard this Tuesday, October 16th! Only a few more days! I am gonna be checking out the blog every day to see what you all are up to on the Cruise, and growing greener and greener with envy every day!! And about what you suggested on the ‘private request’ for the group’s arrangements: I decided to stop being so anal and just trust that the Groups Coordinators communicated our needs with the Group Coordinator onboard the Freedom, and that all arrangements will be in order. So I will take a much needed “deep breath” and…. I will relax. I think…. I hope….. er….. I will. I promise.
Now about that one special request I had, that you told me to remind you about…… PLEASE GIVE THE “WEEBEE FRIENDS GROUP” A SPECIAL “SHOUT-OUT” AT SHOWTIME ON 1ST NIGHT ON THE SHIP (MAIN SEATING)!! They’ll be the loud ones wearing little blue ribbons and laughing and hollering the most!
THANKS JOHN!!!!!!! Love to you & Heidi,
Esmee K
God bless and keep Alan, his family, and friends.
Prayers are going his way.
Marilyn