Sunday, October 14th, 2007...10:44 am
The Power Of Love
I cut my finger today…………I needed a stitch…………it hurts…………….I am a big baby…………..Heidi added that bit.
The worst thing is its one of my two typing fingers so I now have one finger for you………..pardon the expression.
I cut my finger on a piece of glass………..I accidentally dropped a photo frame (of Heidi and I at our wedding) that was sitting on the desk. In my hurry to pick up the pieces before the Mrs. arrived on the scene I cut my finger on a piece of glass deeply enough for the doctor to add a stitch. I would appreciate some sympathy because I got none from Heidi who was more concerned at the damage to the $20 photo frame I had broken. So here I am starting today’s blog at 1:30 pm with a stitched finger and back in the dog house………again.
So, good afternoon on this lovely Friday afternoon as I sit here to start the blog before I leave to host the Newly Wed game and then the 5 pm Afternoon Show. The weather is lovely once again and the sun is shining on this autumnal day…………typing with one finger is going to take forever.
Later today I will post my report about the visit I made to the Queen Victoria and also coming up next week we have more guest interviews to look forward to.
This morning I hosted the Livorno/Debarkation talk and as always the Q and A session afterwards provided me with the usual amount of merriment and today, a little bit of frustration as well…………..Let me explain.
One of the very first people to raise their hands was a gentlemen in his sixties or seventies and I knew straight away before he said a word that he would have something negative to say………………..and he did. Here is the conversation as best I remember it with me and Mr. Brooklyn ……….. that’s where he said he was from. Here we go.
Mr. Brooklyn……………..my name is ^%$# and I am from Brooklyn and I want to know why it so many of your crew do not speak English.
Groans from the audience and a few boos
John…………..Well, the crew are from 50 different countries and most of them speak very good English and to be in a public area or service area we require them to speak English. Have you a specific person you are referring to?
Mr. Brooklyn…………No it is everyone and nobody understand what I want when I tell them what to do for me.
Now, that statement was said with such venom that I found myself getting upset but even more importantly so were all the other guests …………in fact one gentlemen who was seated in the row behind stood up and snatched the microphone from Mr. Brooklyn’s hand and said “You are talking nonsense. I have been on 7 cruises and this crew all speak English and I think you should keep your opinions to yourself.” This was met with general applause from the guests.
Now, I could see things were getting out of hand so I came of stage and asked Mr. Brooklyn to wait for me until the end of the Q & A so that I could address his concerns personally.
The Q & A then continued and it was given a huge comical lift when a lady asked this gem.
“I am staying in Rome for two extra days. Can Carnival make an appointment for me to see the Pope?”……………..although I had a smorgasbord of comebacks on that one I just said……………..Let me call him and I will get back to you…………….at this afternoon’s show I will call her, pretend to be the pope and ask her to tea.
Then it was back to Mr. Brooklyn. I spoke to him for a few minutes and do you not what?……….I am not going to waste my time and certainly not yours by talking anymore about this man. Let me just say that he was one of the most bitter people I have ever met, so much so…………..I actually left feeling sorry for him.
I love the crew on this and all our ships and although their English may not be perfect they are without doubt the best in the business and I am proud to work alongside them all…………………….he really has got to me hasn’t he?……….I hate it when that happens. Here are two photos from today’s debarkation talk showing the standing ovation.
Here are some amazing photos of The Mount Etna at 2900 tour………………have a look at these.
Here is Today’s In Their Own Words Section
It’s the joke of the day.
A man went to a barber for a trim and a shave. While the barber was lathering the man up for his shave, the man told the barber that he always has a hard time getting a close shave on his cheeks.
The barber pulled a small wooden ball out of this cabinet drawer. “Place this ball between your cheek and gum on the right side and I can give you a close shave.”
The man did this, and the barber shaved the right side of his face.
“Wow!” exclaimed the man, “that is great! Smooth as a baby’s bottom!”
He put the ball in the left side of his mouth, in anticipation of the barber’s next move. Just then he gulped and gagged with an involuntary jerk. The ball was now stuck in the back of his mouth.
With muffled voice he asked, “Buh what happens if I accidentowy swawo du baw?”
The barber said, “Don’t worry about it. Here’s some water. Swallow it down and just bring it back tomorrow…that’s what the last guy did.”
Let’s do some Q & A………………with one finger I will answer as many as I can. The usual apology follows with me just answering questions. I have so many to catch up on plus I want to get this posted tonight so you have something over the weekend.
CAN I PLEASE SAY A COLLECTIVE THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU FOR ACKNOWLEDGING THE WONDERFUL WORK THAT ROBERTO HAS SHOWN HE DOES DURING HIS INTERVIEW. I KNOW YOU HAVE MADE HIM FEEL VERY PROUD………THANK YOU ALL.
Here we go. To skip Q&A, click here.
LINDA HERNACKI - I am sure your grandsons realize they have the best grandmother in the world, especially when they see those wonderful presents you buy them every time you cruise. Linda, I am still unsure as to what ships I will be on in April and May 2008 and as soon as I know my exact schedule I will of course make sure I tell you. Postage from Miami to the UK should take no more than seven days and Heidi and I look forward to corresponding with you over the holiday season. I hope Mike is well and give my best to your ever expanding family.
LISA AND ELAINE – I am not sure when I will be in your area but when I am I will be sure to let you know. Many thanks for the kind hospitality and you can hopefully show me a Gator or two. Best to you both.
WANMAN – I will be happy to help you celebrate your sister’s birthday and ask that you send me a reminder the week before your cruise on the Carnival Conquest. Many thanks for all your kind words and my best to you and the family.
TRACY – Hello Tracy. You asked what ship I will be on in 2008. Well, I will return for the bloggers cruise on January 19 and then after that I am uncertain. I will be sailing on a few of the Carnival ships assisting the younger Cruise Directors before returning to the Carnival Freedom. Then in May I will head to the shipyard to get the next vessel ready. Her name will be Carnival Splendor and she will be sailing in the Baltic and the Mediterranean from the United Kingdom………come and have some fish and chips. You obviously have joined the blog in the last few days so welcome. You asked who “Alan” is. He is my best mate and is very ugly. He is also undergoing major surgery at the moment and I am deeply concerned about him. As you can see, all the folks on the blog have been so kind in offering their sympathies etc as I see you did to. Thank you so much for that and welcome to the blog, I hope you enjoy it.
BIG ED – Mrs. Big Ed has asked me to suggest places to hide from you and I on the ship……………………..the gym?
MARY BOB FROM THE BOB FAMILY – I am so glad that you have written and I hope you all had a safe journey back home. How is “Carl Bob” doing after his accident in Rome? Does he have to have surgery? I am sure you will have a wonderful time on the Carnival Miracle for Thanksgiving and I have alerted the ship to the fact that 116 Bobs will be sailing. Thank you so much for all your kind comments and hope to sail with you again very soon. Cheers.
MICHELLE MANN – Sorry for the confusion Michelle. Immigration is more complicated now than ever so my suggestion is that you bring as much identification as possible and work on the idea that you can never have to much. Looking forward to tea and crumpets and let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Thanks so much for the cabin number and please remind me one more time the week before you sail. I will let you know the latest on Alan shortly and as always thank you so much for asking about him and your concern. Please let me know if your friend gets her audience with the Pope and I hope she has a great cruise. Thanks again Carol and see you soon.
CANUCK CRUISER – Thanks so much for the fabulous posting and all the sports information as well. I am glad my Red Sox are doing well still. OK, to answer your question on what to do in Key West I have two suggestions. Firstly, if you have never seen the town itself we have a wonderful Trolley Tour which shows you just why Key West is so popular. Also, once the tour is finished you should see the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum or just sit at one of the famous restaurants such as Sloppy Joe’s and watch the world go by. There are also wonderful snorkel tours to choose from as well as other eco-friendly excursions…….the choice is yours.
Now let me tell you everything I know about Calica ……………………….. there, did you enjoy that? Unfortunately I have never been but let me contact the Cruise Director on the Fascination and I will pass on his recommendations. Thanks again and my best to you and all my Canadian blogging friends.
JUST IN. Here are some recommendations from Trevor who is the Cruise Director on the Fascination. Here are his top tips for Calica
Caverns by Jeep & Beach Combo. Really unique I think, because Americans don’t really get to do this back at home. You can go underground into the caves and rivers (actually kind of eerie) but cool. You also get a stop at Xpu-Ha beach to relax for a while and pray to the Sun G-d RA!!!
Mayan Ruins of Tulum – No need to tell YOU about this. I’ve seen your travel talk before (although Brett’s “Fruit of Tulum” joke was always good for a laugh. You can also do a combo tour with Tulum and Xelha (natural aquarium formed by lagoons) and also relax, snorkel, swim or even a tube ride. So again, a nice combination tour.
Finally, one of my all time favorites was X-caret – an eco/archeological park (similar to a theme park) complete with natural pools and lagoons to swim in, an aquarium, a butterfly pavilion, an underground river. Bus comes back every hour on the hour
RIKKI BOYCE – Well spotted. In answer to your question the answer is yes, you do get one extra hour because of daylight savings times. Here are the clock changes for the TA cruise.
Sun, Oct, 28 Rome arr @ 1pm
Mon, Oct, 29 Rome dep @ 7pm
Tue, Oct, 30 Livorno 7am-8pm
Wed, Oct, 31 at sea 8am-6pm
Thu, Nov, 01 Malaga 1pm-8pm
Fri, Nov, 02 at sea One hour back
Sat, Nov, 03 Maderia 8am-6pm
Sun, Nov, 04 at sea
Mon, Nov, 05 at sea One hour back
Tue, Nov, 06 at sea One hour back
Wed, Nov, 07 at sea One hour back
Thu, Nov, 08 at sea One hour back
Fri, Nov, 09 at sea One hour back
Sat, Nov, 10 at sea One hour back – D S T
So basically, you are getting seven hours of cruising for free. How about that then. See you soon and let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.
CARL AND BARB THE BEAR – How are you feeling Barb. I hope you are getting stronger every day and even though you have your own worries, you still have time to think others, how wonderful you are.
To answer your question ” is Roberto going to be on the bloggers cruise……….the answer is YES.” It would not be the same without him and he along with Vance who reads every blog before Roberto does what he does will be with us. I am also hoping to have Chris Prideaux and Roger Blum sail as well………….it should be quite an incredible experience. So, thanks for your kind words again and all your support of the blog thingy.
SOUTHERNDREAMS – See you soon!
DWA76 – Hello mate and as usual your kind words of support on so many levels are very much appreciated. I am glad you liked the photos and you asked the name of the ship on the right hand side of the Carnival Freedom while she was docked in Venice. Her name was The Snitch Of The Seas or The Jealous Of The Seas because we had a big screen and they don’t so they went running to officer Armani and said “It’s too loud, turn it down, we want to go to bed, its 8:30 pm” ………….got that off my chest then. Thanks mate and I hope you enjoy the photos today of Mount Etna. My best to you and the family.
JAMES EMM – I have asked Dino the Maitre D to take care of your table and I am sure he will be able to assist you. Drop me a line when you are onboard and I will look forward to speaking to you. Have a safe flight and see you soon mate.
NANI – Thinking of you………..always
LFTTNSFCF – Hello Jon. I wanted to say that you are correct when insisting Roberto be on the Bloggers cruise. He will be my side and will have the extra job of helping Big Ed in and out of his thong. All set for you her and maybe we can have Jon and Diane play for the Bloggers Party. Best to Mrs. MTSFP and see you soon.
MARY AND MOE – Having read your posting the first thing I wanted to do was to was to say that we should all salute the sterling work carried about by air traffic controllers everywhere, especially in a busy airport such as Miami. There work is never heralded and please thank him and his colleagues on our behalf. Thank you for asking what size Heidi takes……..she would take a size 12 or a medium……how kind of you to ask. I am so happy that you both enjoy the blog so much and I hope one day soon I can shake your husbands hand and say a big OLA to you both. Thanks again and Heidi is excited about her shirt.
IRENE R – Hello Irene. You asked if Roberto had ever taken a cruise with me but the strange thing is not only is the answer no, he has not…………..we have actually never met. This will be rectified next year when we sail together on the bloggers cruise and I shall look forward to that day very much. Why not come and join us?
ERIC – Just wanted to say welcome back from your Carnival liberty cruise. I am glad you enjoyed the art work and let me know your thoughts on the entertainment and all you enjoyed. Welcome back and I am sure your next cruise on the Carnival Valor will be even more special now that you are part of the elite Platinum club.
ALAN AND CHRIS – Thanks for the fun posting and even if Alan’s insurance does not cover plastic surgery I will pay for it myself out of my Aston Martin fund………….I would be doing the world a favorI see you will be cruising the Med on the beautiful Costa Mediterranean and maybe we will be port together. Hopefully you will be still reading the blog thingy next year and you can remind me of your sailing date so we can see if indeed we are. Thanks again for your kind words and hope you continue to enjoy the blog thingy.
RENEE – That was so very nice of you and thank you for taking the time to mention one of your colleagues. Hope you are well and thank you for everything you do at Carnival Cruise Lines.
ESMEE K – Wow, you are excited. I am glad the new Carnival Splendor brochure has gotten you this way and let me answer your question………….don’t get too excited now………………have a cup of tea ………….. calm down…………..OK, here we go.
You asked which of the ports Heidi and I have been to and the answer is all of them except the ones in South America. We have sailed the Grand Med and Greece and Turkey itineraries on the Carnival Liberty and here on the Carnival Freedom so we really have been lucky. In 2004 we sailed to the Baltic on the Carnival Legend so that means we got to see ports like St.Petersburg and Estonia. These ports are some I am particularly excited to go back and see. Are you thinking of joining us? If so, please know that I will be here should you need any help at all on which cruise is right for you. I hope today’s blog finds you well and Heidi and I send you our best.
PAUL AND TERESA B – Heidi and I read about the passing of Paul’s Dad. We send you our most sincere sympathies. He has been promoted to glory…………..something my Mum & Dad always say …………….and I hope that helps just a little bit. We are both thinking of you and your family tonight.
KATHY KROLL – Hello Kathy, I wondered where you had got to. Hope all is well with you and Paul. Thank you for the compliments on winning the award and for my mate Roberto. You have a lot of catching up to do on the blog and I hope you post again very soon.
That’s all for now. I will reply to all the comments on the blog called Brittney Jeers tomorrow and if I have missed an important question from anyone, please let me know.
This was a strange blog and one that I have found difficult to complete. I started writing it in Messina on Thursday, did a little bit more on Friday while at sea and here I am on Barcelona afternoon putting the finishing touches to it…………..I just seem to have been running around doing so much more than usual the last 48 hours. Let me list the projects I am working on now apart from the usual day to day responsibilities I have
1. Shooting a new past guest video which will be shown fleetwide and has to be ready by Monday………….it nearly is.
2. Preparing the trans-Atlantic Capers and schedules for Todd to approve when he arrives next cruise.
3. Writing a blog about the Queen Victoria – which is now posted and I was very pleased to have done……..what a ship.
Doesn’t sound like much but it really has thrown me behind a bit so I desperately want this blog posted ASAP as I know you are all waiting for it.
Before we chat about Barcelona, let me give you an update on my mate Alan. For the first time he was able to text me from hospital today. He has had meningitis following his surgery but that seems to be better today. He sent me a text saying that he only got his tumor after he started reading the blog so it was good to see he is staying positive. I will be home for his next surgery and I will keep you updated.
The bad news is that the surgeon refused to help with any plastic surgery. This means Alan will stay an ugly sod…………how ugly is he? I once saw a dog humping his leg………………the dog had its eyes closed.
So, today Heidi insisted that I get off the ship. I have not stepped foot ashore apart from my visit to the Queen Victoria and the boss said I had to go………………so trying to avoid being put back in with the dogs, so away we went. We had a wander down La Rambla the center of the city full of shops and Tapas Bars and lots of street performers who are dressed in strange attire………like this one.
She has a nice pair…………….sorry spelt that wrong……………..pear.
As we headed for Heidi’s favorite shoe shop “Las Payless” I was reminded once again that I am the Cruise Director both on and off the vessel.
Let me just say that today was Saturday and there were 1 billion people in town but once again my delicate frame was spotted by a guest wearing one of our tour stickers, Blue 9 which was the Highlights of Barcelona Tour……….here is the conversation.
MR. Blue 9……………You are the Social Director aren’t you?
Me………..Yes, how can I help you?
Mr. Blue 9………Yes, we are on the tour and are not very happy. There are too many people and it’s too hot.
Me……….Oh, I am sorry to hear that, it is Saturday and I did mention that in my travel information
Mr. Blue 9…………We don’t watch you, we prefer to play cards. Our biggest complaint is that there is nothing to see on the tour except historical buildings, churches and now we have to shop in this heat.
Me……….Well sir, that is the name of the tour. The Highlights and Shopping tour, did you read the description?
Mr. Blue 9………Yes but I thought it would be better than this
At this point I knew that unless I ended it there and then that we would still be there now. So I took his cabin number and name and one of the shore excursion managers will contact him and we see what needs to be done.
So, of we walked again and not five minutes later we were stopped by a guest but this time………….it was a meeting that……….well could not have been more of a contrast to the one a few minutes earlier.
I had spoke to these two people on the Afternoon show on Friday ………..here is their letter I read out.
Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery are very special people. They have been married for 54 years and as you can see from their letter they have a lot of kids and a big family. Mr. Montgomery is in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease………..he told me this live on the show and now as we met I could see that was true. I also saw though am man who had spent 36 years in the United States Coast Guard and even though his hand and body shook every other word he stood straight and true and his eyes still had a steely blue resolve in them. They wanted to thank me for making this vacation so special. Mrs. Montgomery has had a terrible illness as well for the last 15 years and she told me that this would be their last vacation together.
I said that they would be back next year but they both said no……….we know we are on “borrowed time” and we are having the best time ever.
As they spoke their hands reached for each others in a powerful display of love and everlasting friendship. As we said our goodbyes and walked away I knew without looking that Heidi would have tears in her eyes and I hoped nobody in La Rambla could see mine.
Tonight, I delivered DVD’s of the ports of call and all the show’s as well as returning their letter which I placed in a Carnival photo frame along of one of the ship signed by myself and the Captain.
I will never forget Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery………I hope they live the rest of their lives in peace and contentment……..whatever happens, I know they will always be their for each other and still as much in love today as they were 54 years ago.
Goodnight
Your Friends
John and Heidi
64 Comments
October 14th, 2007 at 3:13 pm
John -
Despite the issues of your cut finger interfering with your typing abilities, this blog may be your best effort yet.
To go from Brooklyn to Montgomery in one blog is quite a trip – yet you manage the trip effortlessly.
Good to hear the news about Alan. I know that all the bloggers are thinking about him and I hope to have a special gift for you to take to him.
TA minus 14 days.
Jon
October 14th, 2007 at 3:15 pm
John,
Awwwww…..sorry about your finger, you poor thing. How’s that for sympathy?
I am so glad to hear Alan is doing well..that is such great news! I also liked the joke about Alan and the dog…I wonder if he laughs at your expressions of “love”.
Glad to hear you finally got off the ship for a few hours..where would you be without Heidi? Might I suggest you borrow Alan’s bag when you do get off the ship in ports…this way noone will recognize you!
What a list of fabulous people on the Blogger’s cruise…you, Heidi, Roberto, Chris…will Gary be around to take pictures for us?
How many days til your vacation? Only 97 til mine!
Elaine
October 14th, 2007 at 3:20 pm
John, Why oh why do you hate my computer so much. If your not causing me to spray it’s screen with coffee with your humour your flooding the keyboard with my tears with real life stories.
Speak for yourself when you say Mrs. Big Ed would be safe to hide in the gym from us. My image graces the wall of the gym at the Ford factory I worked at. A worker at the plant painted a mural on the wall of all the regulars in the gym.
Don’t forget to be nice to Southerdreams, Bonnie and Prince Charlie, they will be with you starting Tuesday.
“BIG” ED Konefe
97 days till the gang will be there.
October 14th, 2007 at 3:33 pm
Sniff. Oh sorry. Hi John, Sorry you cut your finger. Sniff.
Jo
)
October 14th, 2007 at 3:35 pm
ty john i hope ur friend gets well and sugery went well.i wanted to tell u something in 04 on the glory thanksgiving i sailed and u were cruise dirctor i didnt know i was preggo lol till cosmel i was sick the rest of the cruise up till my 4th month(still had a cret cruise) rember u saying if u get sea sick to eat a peanutbutter sandwitch it tastes the same going down as it did up. lol no i dont i couldnt eat anything i craved peanututter i tryed it its nasty back up lol.and sometime id love to sail with u again. aour next cruise will be hawii not sure win my son whos 2 didnt like the ship much. or camp carnavil to many older kids they scare the little ones.ty tc.ps i dont think i met heidi on the glory.
October 14th, 2007 at 3:36 pm
the suitcases are by the front door and we leave in the morning. the taxi is ordered. a flight away my friend…
so sorry about the finger. sarge has a sore toe, you two shall be a pair of, well, a pair of something, not sure what.
i have a little present for you, i shall leave it at the pursers desk on tuesday when i board. hope you like it. i thought you might be getting sick of jelly beans, not sure, but got something else anyway. will bring diet root beer in january, could not bring it on the flight.
see you soon my friend!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
October 14th, 2007 at 3:42 pm
Good Afternoon John and Heidi,
So John has a “bo bo”. Poor Baby I am so sorry about you “little” mishap. How’s that for sympathy? Did you know you can find sympathy between s–t and syph— in the Websters dictionary?? (snicker). You do have my sympathy because until your finger heals you will hit it on everything you get close to.
As far as Mr Brooklyn, don’t let him upset you, just keep in mind he has to live with that bitter gremlin inside him. It’s a pity that some people waste their lives complaining about things they can’t change. Carnival is a wonderful cruise line and I have yet to meet a crew member I couldn’t understand nor have I ever had a “bad” cruise. Carnival always exceeds my expectations. Amazing!
By the way John I still haven’t gotten a response from you about the PISTONS/heat game. Are we in hiding???! or what?
Take care you two
Joan
October 14th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
Being a crew member myself, I know exactly how you felt when Mr. Brooklyn voiced his opinion. Unfortunately, this is the type of narrow-mindedness that we as crew members must over come on a daily basis. Although I speak perfect English, some passengers still complain that they do not understand my dialect due to my thick Canadian accent. “I sound funny” is about (pronounced a-boot) the most polite way that any passenger has explained my mother tongue. Of course following a comment such as that they will follow it up with a rude comment regarding the English skills of the many crew I consider family and friends.
To tell you the truth, the first time a guest made such a comment I wanted to slap them up side the back of the neck with the small flimsy end of a fishing pole. Knowing that this would not be the ‘Carnival Style’ (although it is not in the hand book! lol) I smiled and reminded them that Carnival is a non bias company that employs men and women from all four corners of the globe, just as all small business and fortune five hundred company’s do in the USA. As well, that any given American city is home to more nationalities than any cruise ship, thus I suggest that when they are home that they take the time to ‘people watch’ and they will realize that the people that populate the place they call home is really no different than that of a ships crew.
This answer may be long, but I find that it politely puts the guest in their place and reminds them that the world is a big place to live in and that there is room for everyone of every race or in this case…language skills.
Cheers Eh!
October 14th, 2007 at 3:51 pm
John,
Thank you so much for today’s blog. Not only did you bring us good news regarding your mate, and our friend, Alan but also the tremendously moving tale about Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery. They truly are a magical couple, particularly in this age of fifty percent divorce rates. Should they be correct about the time they have left on this Earth I’m sure they’ll be greatly rewarded in Heaven.
Encounters with wonderful people like this must do a great deal to compensate for people like Mr. Brooklyn, who I fear suffers from a terminal case of cranial/rectal inversion.
How did your call to the woman asking for an audience with the Pope go? I hope she took it in the spirit that you meant it in.
I’m looking forward to additional updates on Alan and please let us know how SouthernDreams is enjoying her time on the Freedom.
As always, my best to Heidi and the Remarkable Roberto!
Cheers!
Greg
October 14th, 2007 at 3:58 pm
Hello mate:
Ok I have a couple of basic dumb queries. In response to Rikki Boyce why is the TA turning back its clocks on 10 November when the US turns its clocks back at 0200 on the 4 November.?
http://www.infoplease.com/spot/daylight1.html
Britain turns its clocks back on 28th October. Of course if you are sea, time to the guests really does not matter. So no big deal. By the way. It is “Saving” time as there is no S at the end.
My other query comes from being a pilot. Does the bridge make its log entries using GMT (or Zulu) for consistency? I know all of my flight plans and log entries as a private pilot are based on GMT and wondered if the bridges on ships use the same time?
Hope Alan is doing well and not getting uglier by the minute.
Regards…
October 14th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
John,
Please keep your injured finger well bandaged lest evil germs from someone like Mr. Brooklyn find their way into your bloodstream. Heaven forbid any of that nasty attitude should ever take root in your wonderful personality. Never mind you would not leave the doghouse in this lifetime, but we’d all be broken hearted if you lost your charm. So be on guard!
I guess you know you left us all tearful with that last story about Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery. They sound like a beautiful couple. And you do the nicest things for people…the letter in a frame and autographed picture of the ship, etc. Carnival is really lucky to have you!
Scott, our daughter, grandson and his friend and I survived a not very scary Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Friday night. We stood in line almost two hours to be “chased” through the “house on Elm Street” by “Freddie,” but not much happened. Just a sort of half-hearted swipe of the claw-hand every so often. Their “The Thing” attraction was kind of edgy, but we decided this event basically is Universal’s version of a food and wine festival, but with Jello-vodka shooters and corn-dogs. And THOUSANDS of teens through twentysomethings. We were some of maybe 100 people over 40 years of age. By comparison, the Food and Wine Festival event “Party for the Senses” at Epcot last night was like being on the Queen Elizabeth!
Speaking of “her” we’re going tonight to see “Elizabeth: The Golden Age.” Looks to be a very good movie.
John, why don’t you and Heidi disguise yourselves when you go ashore? Couldn’t the entertainment crew furnish you with a beard and Heidi a wig or something? I just never fail to be amazed that people will bug you as they do.
Say hello for us to Alan and his family and tell him to be very nice to the nurses. He can’t be sure none of them is related to Fatima!
The lineup for the Bloggers’ Cruise is sounding more and more exciting. Will there be any special land excursions for the bloggers? Maybe something could be set up at one of the beach places where everyone could play volleyball (or maybe shuffleboard[?]).
Will stop bending your ear (no, your eye) for now.
Best Wishes,
Myra
October 14th, 2007 at 4:15 pm
Hi John, Thanks for the wonderful blog. It started with many chuckles and ended with a tear. I hope your finger is all better now. Thanks for introducing us to Mr and Mrs Montgomery. You make a difference in peoples lives. You are the best at what you do.
Jo
October 14th, 2007 at 5:22 pm
Hi John, I was pleasantly surprised to pick up the travel section of the St. Pete times this morning and see a wonderful article about you. They had a special cruise section and the the write up on you was great. I will see if i can get a link to it and send it on. Also i just want to say “Happy Vacation” and we are still enjoying the blog.
October 14th, 2007 at 6:07 pm
Hi John
Well my comments and my question seem to keep dissapearing . The screen says my comments are being moderated and then they never appear. So one more time.
I am sorry to hear of your injury this morning. I am as guilty as Heidi in her reaction. I just can’t help myself something I inherited from my Mother, and I overreact to a lot of things my husband does by accident, which makes him quite angry sometimes.(Can’t blame him) However, I just book another cruise and then all is well.Ha!
As for Mr. Brooklyn. All I can say is that I meet people like him on every ship I sail and I am sure you do to- in your case on every sailing. I don’t know how you keep your cool, I guess it is your job.
The last time I asked this question and you responded , you told me that it was as yet unconfirmed. Please can you tell me, if you know yet ………….. will you be the CD on the Splendor to South America in 2008?? If you have answered this to me or someone else and I missed it I deeply apologise. I have my fingers and toes crossed.
Been a long time sinced we sailed with you on the Leg End in 2002.
Love and Kisses XXXXXXXXXXXX (Sharon)
October 14th, 2007 at 6:10 pm
John
Just a quicky! First I hope Alan is doing fine we are thinking about him. Second, could you talk to Dino the Maitre D and ask him if Barb and I could have a table for two on the TA? We are in cabin 8260. We look forward to seeing you before you leave on the 28th.
Thanks
Dave
October 14th, 2007 at 6:16 pm
That was beautiful story about Mr. and Mrs Montgomery. I am happy that Alan is doing well following his recent surgery. It had to be scary when contracted meningitis. I will pray that his next surgery is also successful and that you and Heidi can be there with him. Hope that you have a great time off as you both deserve after all that you do for people. I almost forgot to congratulate you on your award. We were on the ship when someone asked about it during one of the question times. You really earned and deserved the award. Tell Heidi that I understand about the 20.00 frame as my husband has accidently broken some things around the house and even though you know that it was an accident it bothers us. I am working harder on not being so concerned about material things but am having a difficult time with it. Just went out today and bought new furniture for our patio and deck and really do not need it. I think that I am trying to prolong the season so that I can pretend that my next cruise is coming up shortly instead of in 46 weeks and one day, but who’s counting. Best to you both. Bob and Cathy Ebert.
October 14th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
See Heidi and John, you are a part of very powerful and pivital moments of peoples lives. Mr and Mrs Montgomery, and so many others. so cool. Really. Feel for you about your finger. Cut mine friday being absolutely stupid at work….My assistant wanted me to get a stitch but 3 band aids and a humility pill has taken care of it. So I am operating on the one peck system of typing! Pitiful since i was already on that method! Smiles to you all aboard the Freedom.
October 14th, 2007 at 6:37 pm
Hi John,
Wow, what a story. I am sitting here in my chair as it is beginning to feel like winter is slowly on its way in NY. The colder nights are beginning, and I wish I was on a cruise heading for the beach right now. There are tears on my face from that story you just shared. This blog really is special. From inspiring stories like these to funny incidents on the ship as shared above with the questions about the pope… it really is great. The interviews are also fascinating, although they often bring tears to my eyes as most of these incredible workers are working to support their families, even though they are so far away from their loved ones. I was wondering if you have any way of checking if a waiter from our cruise on the Triumph in 2000 is working on the Freedom or on another Carnival ship. His name is Roberto Dejesus. He was our waiter, and he was partially responsible for making our family addicted to cruising. We exchanged email addresses, and now his address does not seem to be working anymore. I would love to speak with him again and hopefully see him aboard a Carnival Cruise in the near future. It really is specail people like Roberto who make Carnival such a good cruise line. I am glad that Allan is feeling better, and I hope he continues to get well a.s.a.p.
Thanks for the writings, and I look forward to the next blog.
-Matt and family
October 14th, 2007 at 6:45 pm
God Bless Mr and Mrs Montgomery
October 14th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
John,
Thanks for posting the story about Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery. That and Alan’s good news cheered things up afte reading about Mr. Brooklyn.
Question about the joke of the day… Do you use a lot of these on the actual cruises (like the welcome aboard show) on a cyclical basis, or have you compiled them from past experience to share with us today?
October 14th, 2007 at 7:57 pm
John,
I just want to say that I am Proud to say that I know you and have sailed with you. it is things that you do for people like Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery, That make me proud that I choose Carnival to cruise with. I have no doubt in my mind that Carnical made the right Choice to make you the senior Cruise director ( and not because of your age either). I look forward to reading and getting to meet you again sometime in the future.
Capt Bill. << Also retired Coast Guard Reserves (23 years). Head back to sea in couple of months as either a mate or capt. Not surer where or what kind of boat yet though.
October 14th, 2007 at 8:01 pm
Hi John, hope your finger is healing. My husband, Danny, said he is starting to really like Heidi because she showed you no sympathy.
Tell Alan that we all pray that his second surgery goes well. I am sure it will.
The Montgomery’s sound like wonderful people. Why can’t there be more like them? As for Brooklyn, they are everywhere.
Take care of your finger, I will give you some sympathy.
Jennifer
October 14th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Hi we were on your July 12th cruise and really enjoyed you and your ship. We went on the beatiful tuscany tour and had lunch at a local winery would you have the name or e-mail for that winery would like to get if possible some wine from them. Thanks again for a fantastic cruise you were by far the best cruise director we have ever sailed with. Thanks again
Elaine
October 14th, 2007 at 8:37 pm
john,we had taken 4 cruise with you,looking foward to take the the carnival freedom when come to miami
October 14th, 2007 at 8:38 pm
the best cruise director
October 14th, 2007 at 8:38 pm
I thank you for the story of Mr. and Mrs. Montogmery. If I were in your shoes I would have had to stop the entire show and washed my face. I hope that they have many more “Borrowed Time” moments together.
Glad to hear Alan’s getting better. I sure hope that the the doctor can throw in the plastic surgery in the next round.
October 14th, 2007 at 9:50 pm
Hi John,
Great news about Alan……………poor dog! LOL
RE: your finger……….any cheese with your wine? Just kidding. I do that all of time and finger cuts are the most annoying.
You must have loved the audience who jumped all over Mr. Brooklyn for his callous remarks about the crew. The crew on the LIBERTY last month were the friendliest we’ve ever had on Carnival and everyone would say Hello and smile when we passed them in the halls. Just ignore the crabby passengers and smile as you depart………don’t let them bring you down. Just think……….only a few more days until your VACATION!!!!
Thanks for the suggestions for Key West and Calica. I will look into both locations before the next cruise.
Well I have to pack now ………..heading to Winnipeg for business in the AM…………….not the end of the world but you can see it from there. I kid ……..Winnipeg is a wonderful city.
The mosquito’s are large there in the summer months. It’s a whole new industry in Canada. The Winnipeggers paint them yellow and sell them to people in BC as canaries.
All the best ,
Say Hey to Heidi and the crew……………….and to Roberto as well……didn’t think we’d forget you now did you Roberto?………prayers for Alan.
B&D from Canada
October 14th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
John
Ouch, sorry to hear about your cut finger. Want sympathy? Okay, here goes: “What a brave, brave soldier to type your blog with one working finger. ” Okay, that’s all I got for you. All joking aside, thanks for introducing us to the Mr and Mrs Montgomery. Its folks like the two of them to really put the Mr Brooklyns of the world in perspective. So glad to hear Alan is doing a bit better.
October 14th, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Hi John and Heidi,
Home Schooling the boys id going well and they are doing well, we miss the Glory and Weeeeeeeee Jimmy, and I am still gett ing the pictures uploaded, will post the link soon.
If we all look at life as Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery we would be much happier, and not have to gripe or worry about the little things.
Best wishes to you and Heidi
Heidi-Beth
October 14th, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Hedi,
Could you please do me a favor? Could you please give Bonnie (Southern Dreams) a hug for me and tell her I am so happy that she is well enough to cruise! I would ask John to do it for me, but he cut his finger, and men just ask like big babies if you ask for a favor when they are hurt! Tell Bonnie and Prince Charles to have a wonderful time! Thanks!
John,
So sorry you cut your finger and needed “A” stitch…wanna know how many “stitches” I needed after having a 9 pound 9 ounce baby (and I’m only 5 feet tall)…I needed external and internal stitches…now what was that about your finger??? By the way…that baby is granduating from college this December with a major in Chemical Engineering.
Now for Mr. Brooklyn…don’t let him get to you..easier said than done. I’m glad that other guest grabbed the mike from him…didn’t his mum teach him, if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
The Montgomery story….all I can say through tears….priceless! Wish I could meet them!
ok, I know I’m tired…I read your list of what you had to do and I misread the first one…hehe…I thought you typed…..
1. Shooting a new guest….LOL…I read it twice that way….would that guest be Mr. Brooklyn?
Tell Alan we are happy he is doing a little better, and if he really wants to scare the nurses for Halloween, he could dress up like you and wear a mask that makes him look like you.
Susan
October 14th, 2007 at 11:11 pm
John,
We bloggers truly appreciate your dedication to your writing (even if it does take a bit more time) despite the major trauma you sustained! Perhaps I’m a bit more sympathetic than some others as I have not been “tainted” by years of marriage.
The story of Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery is truly a testiment of what love truly is and how special the time we have with each other should not be taken for granted! It’s a story like that which forces you to stop, think about your life, and how you can better yourself each day. Sadly, it’s stories like Mr. Brooklyn that make stories like the Montgomery’s often go unnoticed.
The photos from Mt. Etna are amazing! We ended up going on Taormina on Our Own (to get a canolli, of course!), but I wish we would have had time to go to the top of Mt. Etna!
I know our Splendor cruise is months and months (far too many, to be exact) away, but do you know when the shore excursions for the Baltic cruise will be available online? We are the type of group that once we book our cruise, we begin reading up on the ports and figuring out what excursions to go on. Thanks!
October 14th, 2007 at 11:12 pm
Dear John,
Well, here it is 10 days home, back here in Podunk(Hancock), Maryland. Thinking how good it is to know that “DICKMANN” is back on watch in good ole’ Altoona, PA just 60 miles away, along with his sidekick, the one that really needed him. What was her name anyway…ahhh…oh yeah, that’s it,
“AnitaMann”.
That’s just one of the gems from our treasure chest of memories that we collected on our Italy, Greece and Turkey Cruise.
Thanks to you and your great entertainment staff, {especially Jamie and Stitch (very friendly!) }, and Katarina and Juan from the Posh Dining Room (terrific service and great personalities!),we have some great moments to treasure.
Wondered if you could help us out? Tried to watch the copy of your 2nd Morning show from our cruise (Sept. 22nd thru Oct. 4th) with our kids tonight and there is a 3 to 4 second delay from sight to sound. It’s kind of like watching a “Godzilla” movie where they put the English over the Japanese and the lips and words don’t match.
We bought 2 copies of that show, one for us and one for Momma Quackenbos, since she didn’t get to hear our letter of appreciation. That was over $50. Hope you can do something about getting us a good copy of the show or a refund.
By the way, I wanted to elaborate on the origin of the name, Quackenbos.
Originally, van Quackenbosch, our source says van is “from” or “of”. “Kwaken” refers to the sound made by frogs or sometimes by ducks, and “bosch” means forest or wood (just like Heidi said!).
Therefore, “people from the forest of the croaking frogs”. So, Heidi was right, and I just remembered “valley” in error instead of “forest”.
Keep up the great work with the blog. Sorry about your little booboo on the finger. Let us know about a viewable copy of that “Morning Show”.
Keep on laughin’ and livin’ and lovin’ and thanks for the memories!
Vickie and Gary Quackenbos
and the whole Quackenbos crew
October 14th, 2007 at 11:16 pm
Tracy:
John has a cockney code.
We have folks with all sorts of accents.
Then there is Mr. who doesn’t spell the way the words are pronounced. Then, if he is making up the word, which I suspect he does sometimes, also, he can spell it any way he wants to.
SPELL.
Please.
Either that, or at the beginning of your comment, put down a complete vocabulary.
Reminds me of military mumbo jumbo that costs a jillion dollars a second so there was a code book of required abbreviations and all that.
I haven’t figured out Nannetteali’s JA, that is Yes in German, is it a giggle in Puerto Rican?
And all the people who lolligag around, which is loitering for entertainment, unless that should also be in the code vocabulary. In which case, SPELL. No secret secure codes and lines. Just social conversations and reminiscences. With a Cockney code for good humor.
I do approve of the Beetle Bailey conversations, where Sarge always talked in the Capitalized Numbers section. I’m not sure if the asterisks or the per cents were more potent.
I also accept ttfn.
Which has been around a lot longer than you or I, which is BritSpeak for tata for now.
ttfn
October 15th, 2007 at 12:04 am
John,
Greetings mate, so sorry to hear about your finger, hope it heals up well. Heidi should be typing the blog for you with such a injury. Heidi, stop putting john in the dog house, or else he might start doing more dog like things I don’t want to think about. You know that really bothers me about MR. Brooklyn please send me his information so I can go bring him a “cake” Brooklyn is only about 25 minutes from me so it’s not a issue. As a matter of fact I work with 40 immigrants on a daily basis all with different levels of English, and none of my guests need to ever speak with them. But if they did all the ones they might ever come in contact with speak perfect English. So to Mr. Brooklyn stick it in your bum, stupid sod. Happy to hear about Alan starting on the road to recovery, to bad they can’t make him look better. Ever see that movie face-off with Nicholas cage and John Travolta, basically they surgically transplant their faces according to the story line onto each other there for trading identity’s. Can’t we find some person hey maybe Mr. Brooklyn might make for a great test subject. Anyway it’s a idea. I’m leaving for the Miracle this Thursday very exciting maybe I should start packing soon? Don’t forget about southerndreams and Prince Charles coming to your house this week. Yes roberto is the man someone give him a raise over there at CCL.
Today I received a email from that other cruise line with that big anchor on the side of all there ships near the funnel. Seems they want to interview me for a position, phone then a in person. While exciting as it is I think I really want to work on a carnival ship, but in order to make my dream come true I’m going to take what ever position they are offering me if the funding is in the right area’s. I’ll let you know what happens.
Best to Alan and Heidi
Kevin
PS The aston is well, and says hello
October 15th, 2007 at 1:09 am
I betterwill be coming across the Atlantic on your Oct.28th cruise. I am a 53 yr old male and will be traveling solo.
Looking forward to a great time going tranatlantic – wanted to sail it but this will be a great way to get the 1st crossing under my belt with a little more style.
What are you planning for this 1st transatlantic trip for Carnival?
Do you have the same shows as was on the normal cruise schedule – I heard you had 1 on New Orleans music. That would be great if still playing!
Hope to hear back – Enjoy yourself and heal fast from your mishap today…….. LL
October 15th, 2007 at 1:47 am
John and Heidi!!!
My husband and I just returned home from our first cruise on the M/S Sensation.
I know how the crew on this ship sees so many people in such a short time but yet they remember names, this amazed me, along with treating us like family. My husband, being the wonderful man he is, originally went on the cruise just to “shut me up” but now it is the other way around, he is the one telling everyone about it. He laughs and teases but I think he was fascinated by how much cleaning and polishing is done on such a large vessel, he is saying “they rub it so much that they are going to rub a hole in it”.
We both loved the newlywed game, Matt Ross did a great job with it. We attended the debarkation talk, which made me sad to say “goodbye” to the best vacation we have had together, giving the crew the ovation they all deserve. The last thing I would like to share is how we were laughing about how people were complaining about the “wait lines” but we both thought that there were none. The longest wait we had was for customs and that was only because people had not filled out their forms properly.
We walked everywhere we could and did everything possible on such a short cruise and my poor feet are screaming at me from the punishment they took.
Thank you for the advice you had given me. This was a great experience for us both and as a first time cruise this was perfect, now we are ready for the 12 day around Hawaii.
Thanks again!
Shel and hubby
October 15th, 2007 at 7:09 am
Laughed my arse off over the “finger” comment! You seem like a wonderful cruise director. Just reading your blog makes me want to go on a cruise on your yacht!
Oh, and it is true: Love is the answer.
October 15th, 2007 at 7:56 am
Good Monday morning, dear John & Heidi,
John, how is your poor finger? I’m sure Heidi kissed it and made it all better.
What a touching story about Mr. & Mrs. Montgomery. I’m sure God has a special place in heaven for both of them.
Now about Mr. Brooklyn. It amazes me that people who are always bitter and critical even bother to go on vacation where everyone else is enjoying themselves. But, to tell you the truth, lately I have been thinking that there is this underground (undersea????) element on the Freedom – coming up with these weird characters who will try to test your limits. Could it be a conspiracy created by they who shall not be named, perhaps it is the origin for the Snitch of the Seas??? You need the real 007 to check this out.
And you just made me feel bad again that I won’t be on the Bloggers’ Cruise. Now I won’t get the chance to meet Roberto. Booooo! Roberto, wanna go on a 5-day cruise on 12/3?
Take care everyone,
Carol
October 15th, 2007 at 8:46 am
John, so glad to hear the good news on Alan. We will continue to keep him in our prayers.
Wait a minute…YOU got off the ship!!! Amazing! Thank you Heidi. This poor man, boo-boo finger and all, needed that break. You are a wonderful wife. (John, she needs a present.)
The picture of the crazy street vendor and her pair, I mean pear, was cute. Kudos to the photographer.
All I can say about Mr. and Mrs. Mongomery is God Bless. A truly remarkable story.
One last remark, I know there are a lot of RED SOX fans on this blog…but, being from Ohio, I must say: GO TRIBE!!!!! John, I’ll bring you a Cleveland Indians hat in January! GO TRIBE!!!
October 15th, 2007 at 9:05 am
hope your cut gets better!
October 15th, 2007 at 9:36 am
John:
I had to go back and search out the blog about Alan, since we were on our Victory cruise during that time.
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with he and his family.
After the Victory cruise, I spent a week with my BFF Martha. (She actually is the one who introduced me to my husband.) So I know how important it is that you be with them at this time.
Alan is blessed to have such a friend.
I was a little late catching the “blog” fever, and would have booked the blog cruise had I known about it in time.
As it is, we are sailing on the Imagination 2 days after the blog cruise returns for our first B2B.
I am still trying to talk hubby into “adding” the blog cruise to the trip. But since we already have at least 5 Carnival cruises lined up for 2008…he said no. : (
Safe travels, lots of rest and a joyous reunion with Alan and his family to celebrate the treasure that you have in your friendship. May your love and support give Alan more strength than any pill could ever provide.
October 15th, 2007 at 9:37 am
John and Heidi,
Once again your blog has run the gauntlet of emotion. The heartbreak of a cut, the high of hearing that Alan is doing better, the passenger that wants the world to revolve around him, and then the wonderful story of the couple at the end. The highs and lows you lead us through daily continue to keep us coming back for more. We hope your cut heals, we pray for Alan’s recovery, we admire the wonderful couple at the end, and for the unhappy customer well………the plank?
I would like to share a joke with you….A man suddenly had a terrible pain over his right eye. It was not a pain he could live with so, he went to the doctor for a physical. Upon completion of the exam the doctor returned with the diagnosis. He explained that the cause of the terrible pain was his right testicle. He could live with the pain or have it removed with some pretty serious surgery. The man thought about it for several days and opted for the surgery. He was admitted to the hospital and the surgery was done. Following the surgery the man had never felt better and this euphoric feeling lasted several months until suddenly……the pain returned. He rushed to the doctors office for a re-evaluation. The doctor conducted the physical and returned with a diagnosis. I’m sorry to tell you this said the doctor but….it is your left testicle. You can either undergo surgery again or learn to live with the pain. After careful consideration the man once again opted for the surgery. Now with the removal of both testicles the man had never felt better in his entire life. He was so happy that he decided to treat himself to a complete set of new clothes. He went to a store and was met by the sharpest salesman in the store. The salesman greeted him and asked how he could help. The man said he would like a whole new set of clothes. The salesman came up with a deal…..Tell you what …if I can guess your every size you wear you buy two suits. If I miss one size your new suit is free! The man thought only seconds before agreeing to the proposition. The salesman sized him up and started at the top….You wear a size 7 1/2 hat, a size 44 undershirt, a 16″ neck shirt with 32″ sleeves, you wear size 38″ waist trouserswith a 34″ inseam, 10-13 socks, size 11 shoes, and size 36 underwear! The man started to laugh hystericaly and said….I got you…you owe me a new suit….free! The salesman confidently asked where he had gone wrong. It’s the underwear….I wear size 34 underwear. The salesman said….I’m sorry sir, that cannot be correct….
If you wore size 34 underwear you would have this unbearable pain over your right eye!!!
Here’s hoping Alan recovers completely and quickly! Please take care of yourself and Heidi!
We’ll be on the Miracle on November 23!!
John & Susan in Frisco
October 15th, 2007 at 9:51 am
Good Morning John and Heidi!
I just wanted to share the great news with the two of you! Our granddaughter is a soccer player
(and a very good one at that!) Hubby helps coach her Under 10 team. This weekend they were entered in their first tournament-which means of weekend of soccer games and lots of sitting around waiting for the next game. Well, yesterday we arrived at the field to check in and we were told that we had already clinched the title in their age bracket. We decided not to tell the team because we wanted them to put their best effort into the games. They won their last game 6 to 1 with our granddaughter scoring two amazing goals on her tenth birthday! She was so excited as were we!
Just wanted to share that! I made a big sign for my office door! One proud grandmother!
I am glad Alan was able to text you today. That means things are improving! I know you are anxious to get back to the UK and be with them.
Lots of us are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers!
You know what? The guy from Brooklyn really has a problem. I mean, we do not go on a cruise to see what people can do for us. We have never had a bad experience or had difficulty getting a member of the crew to understand what we were trying to say.
Along those lines……we had a wonderful cabin attendant this past summer on the Freedom. Her name was Felicia and I believe she was from Croatia. Not real sure……but my granddaughter had this large plastic lizard named Lizzie that is part of her travel entourage. The first time Felicia saw Lizzie she really freaked…because Lizzie looks real. Amanda and Felicia started playing tricks on each other. Amanda thought the world of her and so did we! If you can figure out who she is, please
tell her we said hello! She was such a delight!
October 15th, 2007 at 10:40 am
Hi John, Just wanted to drop you a note. We have sailed with you on many occasions. We are great friends of Kuki and Geela (Cruisemates). We will be on the Oct.28th TA sailing of the Freedom. So very sorry to hear that you and your wonderful wife Hedi will not be with us. We certainly hope your great friend Alan does well and you get your long needed rest. We have been platinum members for awhile. We have already requested the 8:00 pm seating. Would you do us a favor and ask the matre de if we could possibly have a table for 2. We are also going to be on the Freedom TA next April 26th 2008 with the Cruisemates group. We have really enjoyed reading your blog and congratulations on your fine award!! We are in stateroom #8452 and will try to come by your little cocktail party on the 28th. Hope to see you soon. John & Priscilla
October 15th, 2007 at 11:29 am
Sorry about your finger….being a two finger hunt and pecker myself , I feel your pain….Anna and I are counting the days until the Blogger Cruise! We can’t wait. One thing that I am excited about is reading your blog is how many Boston Red Sox fans there are out in “Blogger Land”. I have been a Red Sox fan for 40 years and this year I was able to live a dream as I was at Opening Day at Fenway Park. So I look forward to sharing my experences with other Sox fans. Keep up the great work with the blogs and keep that one finger pecking!!!!
John from Arkansas
October 15th, 2007 at 11:52 am
What an “awesome” blog today! You reminded me of my kids, trying to hide a mess they made, but you deserve sympathy for your poor finger. Those darn things hurt worse than any other cut because you always seem to hit it on something while it is trying to heal. “OUCH”.
You brought me to tears from the story of the Montgomerys. Mr. Brooklyn sounded like a person that needs to meet a couple like the Montgomerys so he can see that there is more to life than being waited on and being prejudice. It amazes me the unhappy people in this world.
I can’t wait to meet the staff on the ship. I absolutely love diversity!!! Meeting people from other countries is so fun and I’ve even heard that people from Montana have an accent. So get ready for that one, right? HA!!!
October 15th, 2007 at 11:58 am
Everyone seems to be responding to the Montgomery story, but I’m enchanted with little Michelle. She must be a very special kid to not only handle her own disappointments with her holiday but go the extra mile tohelp her sick parents.
I noticed you had some notes written on the letter. I hope that meant she got “something special.” She deserves it.
While I’m counting the days to the TA, you’re counting the same days to see Alan and get a well-deserved rest. There’s not too many left. And that gives both of us reason for joy.
Thanks for the info on the extra hours. I’ll probably use mine up sleeping;-)
October 15th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
John – I’m a first time writer – long time reader….
Your story about Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery – all I can say is “wow”. If we had more people in the world like these two, our world would definitely be a better place. You must know that the little things you do for your passengers (like the gifts to Mr. and Mrs. M, mean so much. You go that extra step and let people know that you really care about them (well, that is except for those outrageously annoying passengers….). I hope someday to sail on a ship with you and your wife. Our next Carnival sailing is January 10th on the Miracle and we look forward to this trip very much to celebrate another great year of marriage. If our paths never cross I hope it is because you are retired from Carnival, and driving around the countrysides of England in your Aston Martin with Heidi. John, you truly deserve the admiration of your many blog-fans!
October 15th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
What’s with you breaking glass objects lately? Must you be kept away, or on a leash like that one gentleman on the 9-22 sailing who you led around like a dog in the lounge? haha. First the watch, then this frame… I can see why Heidi shakes her head in shame sometimes. (She’s probably insisted upon plastic cutlery and cups from here on out for you from the staff).
As for your finger, you’re doing a good job just bobbing one around. Not bad I must say.
I got a comment in the Britney Jeers section still awaiting moderation… what could it be plugging the pipe?
Have a good one mate,
Matt & Arte
October 15th, 2007 at 2:37 pm
It is not usual for me to read a blog that wrings so many different emotions at one sitting. I was laughing at the jokes, appalled at Mr. Brooklyn’s attitude and sniffling about Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery. They really touched something within me.
I was really impressed with the 10 year old caring for her parents while they were ill on board. I am assuming by the notes on the…well…note, that you did recognize her with a medal and trophy.
I never ceases to amaze me the range of people one meets when working in the service industry.
Keep up the good work.
Thanks,
Gina
October 15th, 2007 at 2:43 pm
wow man that’s great.
October 15th, 2007 at 2:46 pm
John and Heidi,
Thanx a million times for this awesome blog thingy.
I read it religiously, having been with both of you on both European seasons on the Liberty.
Thank you for that awesome letter from Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery….brought tears to my eyes.
We have a certain friend of yours onboard the Liberty this cruise and he and his wife are having a good time…………people are even calling him by his “other name”
Miss you and Heidi terribly.
Best wishes,
Miguel Rodrigues
Snr. Maitre d’
m\s Liberty
October 15th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
Dear John, the beat cruise director of the Carnical:)
how is life in the beautiful freedom?
I hope you still remember me. My mother and I were on a cruise in my, unfortunately we had to leave the cruise in Barcelona because of my mother illness. Thanks god she is totally recover.
Her trophy in on my parents living room on the TV, when I visit them I always see it and think back to our fantastic cruise. I’m not unpolite,m but unfortunately neither the DVD nor the pictures arrived to us to Hungary, but does not matter, the most important thing that my moter is healthy.
This weekend I’ll go for a 24days South – east asian tourm when I’ll return I’ll continue to red my favourite blog, yourd:).
I wish you all the best.
Zsolt and Maria
October 15th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
Hello!
I hope your finger is improving so that you don’t have to 2-finger type over the next few weeks.
I don’t know what to say about Mr. Brooklyn, but his comment about “No it is everyone and nobody understand what I want when I tell them what to do for me.” just gets me so angry. It is at these points that i have so much respect for you in how you are able to handle these situations. I probably would have thrown him off the ship.
I am thinking of Alan and the Montgomery family. Their story is quite an inspiration sadly in this day and age of 50%+ divorce rates. Though it is sad to say, I hope they enjoy their vacation since they mentioned it would be their last.
Those pictures of Mount Etna are amazing. What are the little piles of smoke that are rising in a couple of those pictures? It’s funny how tiny that van looks across all that space.
Cowboys lost last night to New England. We are sad in Dallas, but look forward to our game against Minnesota next week.
Have a good day and thinking of you..
David
October 15th, 2007 at 4:45 pm
Blessings to the Montgomerys!
As for Mr Brooklyn, if he wants everyone to speak Brooklynese, take the subway or ferry—-fogedaboudit—
Prayers to Alan and too bad about your boo boo finger.
A few blogs ago I asked you to check out our reservations for the dinner club on the TA in April, 2008. Is it too early to reserve? I did it on the thingy on the side of the blog and got no response. Do we get a conformation # or something?? I asked for Thursday May 1st at 8:00 Pm. I booked under the name Vischio cabin #8256. Thank you for your kind help in advance.
Affectionatly, Marilyn
October 15th, 2007 at 7:54 pm
Hi John and Nurse Heidi of the Freedom:
Mr. SewingNut had a terrible encounter with a knife years ago while cutting a pineapple. Now, he won’t touch a pineapple because it brings back so many nasty memories. I hope that you don’t feel the same way about the picture frame with your blessed event in it. I guess now you know what to get for Heidi for you anniversary in December… should I spell it out or do you know?
Tell Alan (who could never make it back the ship on time) that we all send out thoughts and well wishes. My next door neighbour is in hospital with meningitis too. Here’s hoping they are both out real soon.
SewingNut
October 15th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Hi John,
I’m so sorry about your finger. Maybe if you ask nicely, Heidi will kiss it and make it better! Hahahaha! I’m glad to hear the news on Alan. I’m still
praying for him. I’m sorry about the mean Mr. Brooklyn but I’m so happy you met the sweet couple. Just remember you make 99% of the people you entertain
happy and that other 1% aren’t going to be happy no matter what you do. Have you gotten the jokes I’ve been sending? I hope they have given you a laugh.
I’ll be sending you another soon. Hugs to you and sweet Heidi.
Leasa
October 15th, 2007 at 11:11 pm
Heidi,
Well, your cards are in the mail again for the 2nd time, this time with the correct postage on them. I sent them to the Miami address so that I could be sure that you will receive them. Not that you will need them while you are home with your mom, but they will come in handy at some point I’m sure.
John,
I picked up your surprise last week and will be mailing it off tomorrow. Let me know if you liked the Jelly Belly brand of sugar free jelly beans–if so I will send you some more so you can share with your dad. Have you done any more of the “walk for the cure” laps around the Promenade deck? If so, how did they do? Well, again you had me showing almost every emotion I have while reading this latest blog! I swear my bladder sits below my eyes and tends to leak alot–I swear I get more emotional the older I get! Glad to hear that Alan is doing better–I’m beginning to think that he is probably really handsom and that you might be just a little jealous of his looks as you are always making fun of him. Well, time will tell. The bloggers cruise is not that far off and then we will all be able to know about his true looks. I will never forget the cartoon drawing of him that you posted quite some time ago. Whoever drew that needs a few art lessons. Well, you and Heidi are probably starting to pack for your vacation–you’re in the home stretch now with your final cruise underway starting in just a few more hours. My best to you both! Missing you lots! Sheryl
October 16th, 2007 at 12:34 pm
Wow!!! You all sound like you are having so much fun. Hubby (Wayne) and I sailed with Carnival in 2004 (it can’t be that long ago, time flies). We one day hope to sail again. Reading this blog for the first time and it make me want to pack right now. One day we will cruise again and hope to meet Heidi and you.
Sincerely, Clara
October 16th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
JOHN,
MY WIFE AND I HAVE BEEN ON 11 CRUISES
WITH CARNIVAL AND HAVE NEVER HAD A LANGUAGE PROBLEM.
I SERVED IN THE U.S. NAVY LATE SIXITES AND EARLY 70′S ALL OVER SOUTHEAST ASIA
THE FOLKS OVER THERE WENT OUT OF THEY’RE WAY TO SPEAK ENGLISH.
MR BROOKLYN IS A NUT.
BUT THE COMPLAINT DEPT. ON YOUR BLOG THINGY KEEPS ME COMING BACK.
CARNIVAL RULES. THANKS
J.M.
October 16th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
John,
Do you have an email address?
October 17th, 2007 at 3:19 am
Hi John and Heidi
I hope you’re both well and looking forward to your well earned break. I hope Alan is bearing up.
You asked when Wrexham will be playing Southend again.The way things are going at Wrexham it may never happen. Still it’s nice to see your team doing well.
I went to see Wrexham play Southend one Friday evening back in 1967/8 at Roots Hall. Guess what you won 1 – 0.I went on my own on impulse. Birkenhead to Southend and back in my mini.
I got lost a couple of times and got back 6-30 a.m.next day. Never been so shattered. Slept the clock round the one and only time in my life.
Happy days.
Anyway see you soon.
Take care
Harry and Philippa
October 17th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
John, sorry to hear about the finger. At least you had one left to give to Mr. Brooklyn. He did, however, tell the truth–the ship’s crew couldn’t understand him. I’ve lived in the U.S. all my life, and I can’t understand anyone from Brooklyn either. New York was a late Tory holdout during the Revolutionary war, and their combination of British, Dutch and German accents still survives. It would be like someone who speaks perfect BBC English suddenly being dropped into the midst of Sheffield. Just know that in our past 7 Carnival cruises, my wife and I have reveled in the multicultural makeup of the crew! Such wonderful people should not have to put up with the likes of Mr. Brooklyn, but they do, and with astounding grace. Just remember – for every 1 of Mr. Brooklyn, there are 3000 Montgomerys.
Rus Franklin
October 20th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
what is the name of the director f&b on the freedom or his e-mail
i would like to send a commentary about his wine and food… it is not negative but good for him for the future….
bernard poulin 8417 the cruise oct. 4 2007
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