Good Morning everyone from a very chilly Southend On Sea Essex, UK. It’s strange waking up on my own and the house seems very quiet this morning. My sleep pattern is still a little messed up. Last night I was in bed and asleep by 9:30 pm and now find myself awake and sitting here blogging at 7:30 am……….fully clothed though you will all be glad to hear.
Heidi is having fun with Mum in Holland and will be home on the 19th. Until then I shall visit with Alan and my other friends and, of course, enjoy the daily delights that my Mum will conjure up in the kitchen. I will make my own breakfast this morning which will be a big bowl of something called Ready Brek. This is basically oat porridge and with some Splenda sugar free …ummmm….sugar ontop it really warms and fills you up. Last night my raspberry machine was bleeping non-stop and I also had a conference call with the office about the forthcoming Carnival Freedom 4-day cruise. After that and the emails had been sent I drove to my Mum and Dad’s and had dinner. Now, it feels like I am talking about food a lot today but as many of you expressed an interest in my daily grazing activities
Will continue to let you know what edible treats I have enjoyed. Last night I had chicken curry…..Mum’s recipe and this morning I am enjoying the repercussions of eating this particular dish……if Heidi was here I would be you know where.
OK, I am going to answer a few comments this morning as time allows. I am not sure how often I will be able to do this but as I have a bit of time let me answer a few starting with last night’s blog called the Greatest Show in the World and then go on from there. If you have posted any questions and I haven’t answered them please re slap them on to this blog and I will do my best to answer them ASAP.
Here we go. To skip Q&A, click here.
SHERYL PELTON – Glad you enjoyed a near normal blog Sheryl and sorry it has been so long since I was …well….normal. I will try and post as often as I can. Heidi will be home soon and I miss her very much. My best wishes to you and your family and I will slap on another recipe from Mum’s cookbook soon.
PEANUTS – Yes, I lost the bet but the Heat will bounce back I promise even though the Spurs beat us again last night. It was an amazing experience though and one maybe I can enjoy again later but if not…well I will always remember that night. I did not get a package from you yet but Chris Prideaux has sent many more to me so I am sure it will be with me soon. I want to thank you in advance and as I am a man of my word I will wear Big Ed’s thong as a hat as the Heat lost…………………help.
BIG ED – Talking of which……hello mate how are you? Alan is home now and I am enjoying being there for him. Thanks for the tips on eating barbecue, I guess being British the eating with your hands thing has always seemed a little….well……..caveman like but how about on the Bloggers Cruise we go up to Lido Deck, order some ribs and you can show me how it is done. Best to Mrs. Ed and thanks for everything.
LINDA HERNACKI – Hello Linda, how are you and Mike? I saw your package Linda and the book has been delivered to Alan and was received by him last night, he was very thankful and I am very grateful for all you do. I am glad you liked the video and I will do more I promise. It will not be long before you are both eating turkey on the Carnival Freedom so let me wish you both a Happy Thanksgiving and wish I could be there with you both.
MYRA BUSHNELL – Hello Myra and let me start by answering your question ……….NO, I did not get an Aston Martin. The car on my driveway is similar though ….a Honda Accord. Oh well, maybe next year. I call Heidi three times a day or more and now thanks to my raspberry she can e-mail whenever she wants as well.
You asked also about Sir Paul McCartney and his current battle with Heather Mills. I really have not been paying attention to what has been going on but I do know that the wonderful tabloid press here is milking it all they can. Thank you for all your kind wishes and I hope you and your family are well and as always thank you for reading the blog thingy.
MIKE L – Hello Big Mike. I actually got to shake Shaq’s hand and yes he is a big fellow but also very personable and very polite……..I was really impressed. I should have asked for a photo but I know he and other celebrities are asked this so often that I did not want to add to that long list……..it was wonderful meeting him though. Thanks for taking the time to write Big Mike and Heidi and I send our best to you and the family.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Thanks for the kind words for Alan and thanks also for sending me a care package, you are too kind. Ahhhhh yes, Easy Cruise. We often saw the Orange Ship in Cannes with us last season…….I will say no more in case the owner is reading this and decides to unleash his Greek fury upon me and me painted orange as well. Heidi will be home soon and until then it’s just me and my jellybeans. As always it’s great to hear from you and I will try and write again soon. All the best Carol and also to your family as well.
CATMAMA044 – Thanks for the welcome home comments and also your wishes for Alan, Heidi and my family. I am starting to relax a little bit now and that will increase as the days go on. I am glad you liked the video and I will try and post more very soon. Thanks for taking the time to write and our kind regards to you and the family.
DC IN SD – Thanks DC for those inspirational words and I will pass them along. I will be having my Ready Brek porridge (you can Google that) in a minute and will think of you as I do. Cheers mate.
NANETTE – Hello Nani. How are you and how is the family coping after your terrible loss? I am so sorry that I have not written but I promise you have been in my thoughts. Please let me know how you are and mucho hugos to you and a big OLA to the kids. Write soon.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Hello again. Christmas and Hanukkah on a ship is very special and both traditions are celebrated on all Carnival ships. The atriums and lounges are decorated by professionals, a Menorah candle stands proudly in the lobby and the candle ceremony is held. We have a very special Christmas show that features both carols and the draddle song (did I spell that correctly?) We also have carol singing by the staff and other special events as well that will make this time even more special for the guests and also the crew as well. Please remind me Carol and I will write more about the holiday season onboard at a later date. Cheers.
TERESA AND PAUL B – It seems like the video feature was very popular and I promise to post some more very soon………Roberto will have to help me as I have no idea how I would get the footage to him though. I also hope we do get to sail with each other and until then I will try and write as many blog thingies as I can to keep you going. My best to you both and see you soon.
TON AND ANGELIQUE - Good Morning my Dutch friends and of course I remember you. That is a great idea, put the ships on Google Earth……Roberto, can this be done? How are things in Holland? Have you seen Heidi? I mean, it’s a small country and thought you might have seen her in the Albert Hein (supermarket) or something. I hope you had a great cruise back in June and I hope that we can get your idea going…..I will let you know ASAP.
RICHARD GREEN – One day I will succeed in getting Spotted Dick served on every Carnival ship…..maybe it should replace the Chocolate Warming Cake ….what do you think? I wish you a wonderful cruise and I am so sorry that I will not be there to have fun with you but I know you will have a brilliant time. Hopefully next time we will be together. Bon Voyage mate.
KEVIN AND ROBIN – Hello mate and thanks again for helping compile jokes about my brother in law Danny….that was a lot of fun. I see you are having problems finding your wallet but once you do and the moths have flown away that you call us and get yourself booked on the Carnival Splendor. I will also be posting information on the 2009 bloggers cruise which looks like it maybe onboard the Carnival Inspiration. Say hello to Robin and please keep reading the blog thingy for more information….first, though, go and find your wallet.
SUSAN B – I am going to find a recipe for grits and ask my Mum to make them for me. Thanks for writing and most importantly thank you for all your kind words. Our best to you and the family……….by the way, the Notting Hill comment has been noted and will be ready for the Bloggers cruise.
DWA 76 – Hello mate and it feels good to type in your name again after such a long time. I did enjoy the game so very much and hopefully one day Shaq will be holding the trophy again……..Dirk who? Cheers mate and it’s great to hear from you.
CLARINETCRUISER – I have to start off with the question….do you play the clarinet? I am glad you had such a great time on the Carnival Freedom and thanks for taking the time to read the blog so often since your return home. It does I agree look strange slapping on blogs without the photos of the ports of call but before you know it those will return. Thanks for the best wishes which I return to you and your family.
KATHIE – I missed you all to Kathie. There will be much to write about in the coming weeks so as and when I can I will make sure you all know what is happening. George Hamilton is everywhere, I see him in my dreams! Have a great day and please keep reading the blog thingy.
KIRSTEN L – What wonderful comments you have shared with us all and thank you so much for saying how much the blog keeps you smiling. How right you are about air travel, they could learn so much from what we do here on our ships. Have fun in Dallas and enjoy all the meetings and activities and if the keynote speaker is boring, close your eyes and let your mind drift to a cruise. Picture yourself on the Carnival Freedom, we are sailing into Venice, you have a glass of chardonnay in your hand and George Clooney is holding your other hand while he tells you of the night he has planned ahead……….or if the key not speaker is really boring close your eyes and think of a Carnival cruise, we are sailing into Venice, you have a glass of Diet Coke in one hand and I am holding your other hand. I am wearing Speedos and whispering to you that tonight………..we are going to McDonald’s………….cheers.
GREG BALDASARRI – Hello mate and how splendid to hear from you. Now, regarding the 2009 bloggers cruise it does seem that the Carnival Inspiration may be favorite to host this event and a final choice will be made soon……….what do you think, would you sail? The meetings I attended in Miami will really shape the future of what we do here and as soon as things are finalized I will let you all know. One thing is for certain is that Gerry Cahill, our president and CEO, is committed to making sure that we improve and provide even better vacation experiences for our guests. Flying with all my French friends was an experience and I did laugh to myself when I heard them all talking……why do French people insist on talking to their friends and family as though they are 600 yards away? Hope all is well mate and its great to hear from you.
LANCE AND ILDA – Thank you so much for the super words. This blog thingy has indeed allowed me to “speak my mind,” so much so that as you can see there is a disclaimer that has been posted on the blog that basically translates to “we have nothing to do with this idiot.” Seeing my name and that of the master John Cleese in the same sentence is very humbling and I thank you for making my day. Wishing you and your family all the best and please write soon. OK, that’s enough because it is time for some Ready Brek Porridge for breakfast. Today’s plan is to visit Alan this morning, buy some new underwear and socks and then watch some television that Mum recorded for me while I was away. This includes Top Gear, a motoring show and some episodes of The Sopranos that I missed ……..the final season.
Just before I go can I say a huge thank you to JTodinmann who sent baseball bats to Roberto, PA 007 and Roger and Chris…………I have no words except to say thank you so very much and I will be in touch soon.
Hello also to all the folks crossing the pond on the Carnival Freedom. Wish I was there with you all. Last night as I sat all alone at home I realised that this was the first time I had been alone in nine months. Not just because Heidi was not there but the first time I had been a building that was not a ship and a hotel that was full of people……..it was just me, in my house, on my own………..it felt strange and I must say I will be glad when Heidi comes home.
The house is a mess though and the quiet stillness of our home will be interrupted immediately she does return and discovers that last night I accidentally dropped a bottle of red wine on the floor some of which splashed all over our leather couch which now looks like it hosted a horror movie involving a chain saw and some woman from Texas……….that’s me in the doghouse then.
Have a great day
Your friends
John and Heidi
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
I know you have a back log of blogs to catch up on, so I will not expect a quick response. I am making plans for future cruises and found that the Carnival Family of Ships do not honor sailings with the sister companies. This leaves me with a delimma. I have enjoyed Carnival and have done quite a few cruises, but wanted to branch out some.
There is really no incentive to stay with the Carnival Family though and I think that is wrong. Why should I have to start over with a sister company of Carnivals in their loyalty program just like I would with brand X as a new cruiser?
Ahhh, John…
Wonderful to hear from you again.
I would have loved to seen a picture of you with Shaq. He is, as I’ve mentioned, a big man.
In that vein, I watched the Heat play against the Spurs last evening. Yes, the Spurs won but you really have to hand it to the Heat. They’re record is far from enviable but they don’t quit. Also, I understand and applaud your support of them regardless of their standings. There are so many fair weather fans out there that it’s good to know that you’re standing by your team.
Regarding the 2009 bloggers cruise, YES I’ll be there with bells on… well, perhaps not bells but you certainly can count me in. The Carnival Inspiration is a lovely vessel and I’m looking forward to being aboard her again in the spring.
The French. Wow… I understand your comment about the decibel level produced by the French in conversation. Perhaps a good scrubbing of the ears might help reduce the noise pollution.
It sounds like your vacation will be much like mine tend to be; time spent on the phone, or raspberry, answering question and tamping out fires.
Perhaps strategically placing a blanket over the ‘blood’ stained leather might buy you a day or two… I’m not sure what gets red wine out of leather but there must be someone on this blog expert in such things!
So good to hear from you. Press on and take care of Alan. Offer my ‘howdies’ to Heidi and the Amazing Roberto!
Cheers!!!
Greg
John,
You said it yourself, it’s the team that makes the difference whether it’s on the ship or on land providing support and they should reap the rewards just as much as anyone else for your outstanding achievement of one million “hits”.
Just like in business or personal future, the first million is definitely the hardest! Hopefully you can celebrate several more million milestones in the coming future.
John you said “One day I will succeed in getting Spotted Dick served on every Carnival ship…..maybe it should replace the Chocolate Warming Cake ….what do you think? ” Well you replace the Great Chocolate Melting, not Warming, Cake with Spotted Dick and YOURS will be spotted in a different location from the rest of your body. Fatima is noting compared to a Mrs. Bobbit. So you just don’t even think about replacing the CMC.
Now how do you explain the red wine when your home alone and you don’t drink. If Fatima or Mrs. Bobbit don’t get you Heidi will. So tell us who was there with you?
“BIG” ED
72 days till the party
11 days for John to come up with something to tell Heidi
John,
So glad you arrived home safely and are enjoying a little peace and quiet…although anyone can tell that you miss Heidi very much as you talk about her so often.
So, can you share with us now, what are some of the future plans for Carnival? Or what to expect on the Blogger’s cruise? It’s only 73 days away and we can’t wait!
If we send something to Miami for you, how long will it take to get to you in the UK?
Enjoy Mum’s home cooking and treasure your time with Alan and his family. Please send them all my best.
elaine
John,
A few days away from the ship, and you have not lost your sense of humor!! Somehow, I don’t think you ever will. Your comments to Kristen L about sailing into Venice with you in a speedo had me laughing and sharing your comments with my secretary! You are too much!! Love that sense of humor! Take care, enjoy mom’s cooking and say hi to Heidi in one of your many phone calls to her. Take Alan for a ride in your pretend Aston Martin just to get him out of the house and feeling more like a human being than a human pin cushion. Our best to him! Sheryl
How about having Funnel Cakes on every Carnival ship. See: http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_16007,00.html
They are a American county fair or carnival (small C) treat that would be a memorable hit on deck. Funnel cakes are simple to make and oh so good. You would devour them!
Hi John and Heidi,
I’ve been enjoying your blog immensely. Looks like you has as much fun getting out of Rome last week as we did.
Wanted to thank you for the champagne you sent us during the last week of the Freedom’s cruise. Our group had a lovely little champagne party at dinner for my wife Denise’s birthday on the last night of the cruise.
All the Best,
Rich H.
Querido amigo;
but it is a good time for you to write because you are not taking away time from Heidi. Ayy John ! you are in big trouble maybe you better go and buy a new couch 
Kids say Hola! back to you.Its good to hear from you again and have our “conversations”.
Eugenio says that with so many of us living vicariously through your life you should think of doing a reality show. Oh my God what a good idea! LOL It will be incredibly funny.
Hola!!! ahhhhhh I dont like you to be solito
About my family… we are ok , we are a strong close family that have much faith and hope in God.You know John, this things never come alone and on this Friday (16) my father is going to have an open heart surgery.I know he is going to be ok but please, friends, I need all the prayers that I can get.You cant imagine how much the happy memories of the 2 weeks we spent on Europe are helping us get through difficult times.My husband specially enjoyed the video hearing your voice he close his eyes and he imagine he was by the door of the cabin(that we always open when we hear you)You mean happy times. We are planning on watching the video that we took on the Freedom when we find the camera cable currently missing in action.
Take care of Alan and give him a huggo ok?
The Freedom is going to be here soon!!
Im going to go see it for the first time in PR my husband and I are going to be sitting on a bench in front of the ship just enjoying the view !
Nani
Hello John,
It will take a while to feel “normal” in your own home until you at least have Heidi home too.
One thing I forgot to mention before but hopefully this was one of the topics discussed at the Carnival meeting – Florida has a lot of retired people, especially in the winter, and a lot of them like to cruise. The problem is the lack of choices especially from Port Canaveral and Tampa. We are doing our 4th Glory cruise Dec. 1 and we’ll have a great time but we’d like different itineraries and longer cruises. There need to be 10 – 14 day cruises to other islands. I hope this was discussed because I think you’ll get a lot more repeat cruisers this way.
Hope Alan is doing well and his problems have been solved.
Let us know ASAP about the Feb. ’09 Inspiration cruise. I was going to book all 4 and hope to have an answer in a couple of days before the deposit is due so I can cancel the other three but I think I’ll wait a little longer.
Enjoy your time with your parents and really enjoy your vacation.
Linda (& George)
Hi John, I can definitely tell you MISS Heidi terribly, you are so funny, you sound like you drank that whole bottle of wine, rather than spilling it! Hiccup! HA! HA! Seriously though, you will be without Heidi for a long time-the 19th is 11 days away! Be good, and get the house cleaned up before she returns! Especially that wine! Did it get on the rug too? Leather is easy enough to clean up, but if you have carpeting it will stain! Anyway, I am so glad you got our package and thanks for bringing Alan the prayer book I sent him. I hope you and Heidi will enjoy the gifts too from us. I will send you a picture of Mike and I in our Bloggers shirts while we are on the Freedom, don’t know how I would email them to you so I will send them to you by snail mail when we get home. Can’t wait to get on the Freedom, hope it is decorated for Christmas already when we go on her. ONE more week! We are both getting so anxious! Got our yearly flu shots a few weeks ago, so we are good to go! Can you possibly do a video from your apt. so we can see your living quarters? WOW, your mom sure is spoiling you with her home cooking! We are so anxious to hear CCL’s plans for the future, and when you have the final word on the 2nd bloggers cruise we will be anxious to hear about that too. Your friends, Linda & Mike
Dear Mr. Heald -
What, you are not meeting me in Miami in an Aston Martin DB9 to take me to the airport? What service we are not getting from Carnival.
I demand COMPENSATION.
Actually, it has been a wonderful cruise, despite the fact that you (and the lovely Heidi) are not on it.
I will be back to blog pestering soon.
MTSFPBNOTNSFCP
Cheers John, I’m sure it feels great to be home, even with Heidi in Holland. I have no questions just now, standing in line here in Orlando at the Mouse House enjoying the Int’l Food & Wine Festival. took advantage of the wait to read your thingy on my berry, I’m sure you look forward to time w/Alan and the 19th when Heidi is home.
Ciao for now, Ray
Thanks so much for taking the time to update the blog thingy. I know you must appreciate the raspberry’s ability to keep you in touch with Heidi via email. Only 4 more days until we sail on the Freedom from Miami! I hope you have warned Todd that your crazy blog readers are coming. Take care of yourself while you are on your own.
Hi John,
Really enjoying reading your blogs. You were the CD on my honeymoon cruise on the Carnival Destiny way back in 1998. Can’t believe its been almost 10 years! We’ve cruised other lines and Carnival too since then, and you by far have been our favorite Cruise Director. There have been some good ones, but you are a great! Please keep us posted on which ships you’ll be on in the coming few years. We’ve been discussing it and we’d love to go back to Carnival with you as the CD. This year we are cruising on a line that is Captained by a certain Orlando Mouse, hopefully the ship is not infested with virmin. We would probably be looking to a Caribbean itinerary, with having young kids the long plane ride to do a European Cruise is not in the cards at this time. Thanks for giving me something to read here at work, where we have hispeed internet thingy, as opposed to the slow dialup thingy at home.
Enjoy your time off and good luck with your friend Alan, wishing him a speedy recovery.
Doug from Canada.
Hi John, Hey, Since we can’t hear any of those great stories about some of the unreasonable cruisers for awhile, do you have any crabby neighbors? LOL … Hope you are enjoying the rest. Mark & Shelly
John, Now you’ll have to tell us about the consequenses… Spilling wine on anything is not a good thing… But a leather couch… Heidi does love you — but this will be a test. I know you’ll pass with flying colors, but you’ll have to assure us in future postings after Heidi returns. (I hope you enjoyed the rest of the wine!)
Being alone is also a test. But your words already tell us how much you love your sweet wife! So tidy-up the house, she’ll be there before you know it.
Thank you for your words. I did have a boring – no very boring – speaker today. (He didn’t even stay on topic.) But, there you were, behind my eyelids, in your speedos… and all I remember, before smiling and laughing out loud, was your hand feeding me french fries!
Thank you for my ever present smiles!!! KirstenL
Hi John,
Just a quick note, it’s much easier to just pick up your socks and unde’s off the floor than to go out and buy more when you run out. I guess Hedi will need a shovel to clear the floors by the time she comes home.
Please keep us informed of Alan.
One more note, please enjoy being with your mum and dad…they must be very special people to have a son like you and I’m sure they are thrilled to have you close by again.
Try not to miss Hedi to much….did she ever get her coat back???????
Enjoy your peace, you deserve it.
Susan
Hi John & Heidi
Have been enjoying reading your adventures for ages. We were on the Freedom in May on the “Dick Little/California” cruise. What a great group of people. In September we were on the Spirit and did BTB Alaska/Hawaii. Such a pity that so many cruises involve expensive air fares for us Aussies. It is so far to fly to for short cruises. The only problem we had on the Freedom was the number of smoking areas. Walking through a cigar bar to get to the Internet was a real problem some days and I could not sit in the piano bar where the best music was due to allergy to smoke. We were surprised as we thought a new ship would share the trend towards no smoking that is very evident in many countries.
We really missed the large screen on the Spirit as well as you of course.
Keep making us all smile.
Bev
And a very good morning to you, dear John,
You just made my morning when I saw your new blog. I’m so glad to hear that you, your folks and Alan are doing well and that Heidi is enjoying her days with her Mom. Do you find yourself talking even when no one else is in the house? Just out of habit – welcome aboard shows, morning shows, how to get out of the doghouse, etc. I have to admit that I do talk to one of my cats like I expect her to answer me – crazy cat lady!
Less than 25 days until the Imagination and I’m getting panic attacks that I’m not ready yet. I go through this every cruise even though I make lists and one of the most organized people you will ever meet. But I always think I’m forgetting something and won’t be able to get it before I leave. Even a new suitcase, because Slinky decided to use the one I take as a scratching post even though I told her not to. It’s still serviceable, but I’d prefer a new one. But I have my documents, air paperwork, funpass, passport, spending money, list of souvenirs, clothes, etc. I’M READY !!!!! And I can’t wait to let everyone know about the changes on the Imagination first-hand.
I’m sure I’ll post again later, so clean up the wine spill, eat your Mum’s cooking (and I love to hear about her cooking), go play with Alan, talk to Heidi, and relax.
Hugs,
Carol
P.S. It’s “dreidle”.
Hi! I’ve enjoyed reading your blog! It’s brilliant (that’s English for wonderful). Anyhow I wondered if you knew who would be CD on the Legend Dec. 16th and how my very good juggling nephew might get an interview? Thanks! Chris
Good Morning John,
It’s so good to have your blog to read when I have my coffee in the morning. Hope Heidi is coming home soon. You sound like you are reverting back to your bachelor days. Poor Heidi, she will have to start “husband training” all over again. How’s that “house” you always get banished to, hope it’s clean and comfortable. (snicker)
By the way, please check you blog entry from Sept 7 I do believe that our bet was I would get a “solid gold” plastic Carnival trophy if “MY BOYS” beat “Your Boys”. I believe the underwear on the head was between you and Ed. Although it will be a “treat” to see you fulfill your bet with Ed!
John, I’m so glad you’re on vacation and get to have some down time. It’s been a really long time since I have posted a comment but I took my mother in law on a vacation the first week in October and by the time I returned I had missed so many blogs, I was overwhelmed at the thought of catching up. But I recently decided I would just start with the current and hope I didn’t miss too much and maybe some day will have time to go back and read the ones I missed. My, I must say, I see so many new names. I really enjoyed the recent video clip. Glad to hear you will do more of them. I have about 5 months before my daughter and I leave on the Freedom and I can’t wait. We are going to have so much fun together. Thanks for making me laugh every time I read your blog.
Cheri
Hi John:
Sorry to hear about the red wine spill. That should be a nice welcome home present for Heidi.
Great to hear from you and I hope you are enjoying the little downtime that you have.
Your porridge/splenda dish sounds interesting. Nice breakfast. I should try that someday.
Enjoy some of that great British weather
Go Cowboys!
David
Hi John:
Tell Heidi that your Mum spilled the wine.
Also, when do we get a joke of the day again?
Hi John:
Tel Heidi that your mum spilled the wine. Also, when do we get a joke of the day again?
John
Hi Again,
Big Ed, Bravo! Couldn’t have said it any better. Replacing the Warm Chocolate Cake is just plain heresy, punishable by, well, what could be a better punishment than Fatima?
And I echo what Nani said – Buy a new couch before Heidi comes home. Tell her you bought her a present. And Nani, your father will definitely be in my thoughts. He will be well.
I am definitely getting into the Holiday spirit. The tree was delivered this morning to Rockefeller Center and they’re starting to decorate. And it’s starting to get a little nippy (OK – cold) with maybe some wet, white stuff tonight up north. Gee, I sure could use a cruise.
Just in case I don’t get to post later, it’s a 3-day holiday weekend for me (Veteran’s Day in the States, John – isn’t it also Remembrance Day in Canada?), so everyone enjoy.
Hugs,
Carol
For Nanette: I will be on the Freedom the week of Thanksgiving and will be in P.R., only problem is we get there around 5pm, so we will probably catch a show at one of the hotels that has a flamenco show I believe as one of its tours. You said you will be sitting on a bench waving at the ship when it docks, if it isn’t dark yet I will wave back to you!
For Kiciaski: I agree we need more cruises out of Port Canaveral, I live in Melbourne and have been on the Glory 3 times as well as being on the Sensation, Fantasy etc. We need at least an 8 day Southern Caribbean cruise from here. I would love to go back to the Panama Canal, as it is I am leaving out of Miami on the Freedom the week of Thanksgiving. This is our 14th Carnival cruise since 1998. I want to see more and different ports of call also, so yes I hope CCL has some new itineraries in the works and new ships for Port Canaveral.
John-PLEASE we all are so anxious to hear the news about what CCL has in store for us. And PLEASE let us know ASAP about the 2nd bloggers cruise details.
Hope Alan is doing well. Send Heidi our love too. Will be missing you on the Freedom in 8 days! Can’t wait! Your friends, Linda & Mike (Mr. Handyman)
Hi John,
I know you’re a bit south of the most affected area, but how is Southend-on-Sea faring with the high tidal surges? I hope you’ve not experienced any flooding.
Best wishes to Alan and his continued recovery.
Anne E.
John,
Red wine on leather couch… ouch!
You’re quite an honest man, you could have written something like the following: “Heidi will be glad to see I’m not hurt after fighting off the intruder last night. I was able to keep him from stealing anything, but do regret that I didn’t catch him and that in the struggle red wine was spilled on our leather couch….” Of course Heidi would see right through that I’m sure.
Carol;
Thank You
Linda;
Its true you are going to be on that cruise!! I didnt realice(sz?) until now. Im going to be there for a few hours at least. I like to be there when the ship docks but I dont know if my husband can make it that early.I have seen your pictures if I see you I will say hello.Do the same if you see me please! (click on my name to go to my blog to see pics)
If you need something please ask ok?
John, Larry and I can certainly relate to your experiences in the Rome terminal. The return from our first trip on the Liberty in 2005 was a never to be repeated experience. The next year we booked the round trip flight but “chickened out” and did the TA. Next year we will do the same thing on the Freedom and are looking forward to the entire 28 days – only wish you would be our CD.
Be careful with that wine. Hope it cleaned up.
Jeri
John, I know you really miss Heidi. When Scott used to travel for work and was gone for ages, I hated it. But reunions are great, eh!?! Thanks for taking the time to share your day with us and do enjoy your time with your parents and friends.
(Ray: Did you enjoy the Food and Wine Festival? Scott and I have been out there three or four nights now just to graze and call it dinner. Plus listening to some of the “oldie” music groups. I think John and Heidi should take a break next year and visit the Festival. Also, are you going to the Festival of the Masters (art show) this weekend? We’re going tomorrow afternoon, then probably Epcot again for “dinner.” Do you live in Orlando?)
John, Don’t get into any more trouble before Heidi comes home!
Ta,
Myra
Glad you made it home safely John. You do deserve a break. Hope you enjoy it. Good luck with the Red Wine spill, just tell Heidi that Fatmia found you and you had to defend yourself
John,
I want to take a guess on the the future of Carnival Cruise lines. You don’t have to tell me if I’m right or wrong but perhaps you could tell me if I’m hot or cold. I heard rumors a few years back that Carnival may be one of the first cruise lines to get into the “durigable” sector. I know an American company has designed a ultra modern durigable that they were going try to sell to cruise lines. They envisioned grand observation decks and even swimming pools. Instead of docking in difference countries, you’d actually fly over them at low altitudes and see first hand the rain forests, mountaines, etc. Am I hot or cold with this guess?
Eric
Hi Nanette: I will look for you on the Freedom, I went to your website to see your pictures, I too have been a blogger since the beginning, so I have read your blog entries to date as well. God Bless you and your family. I want to go on the next bloggers cruise on the Inspiration, if you go I will meet you in person then. So you are a school teacher, I know what you mean they do not pay much in Florida either. My daughter in law was a school teacher before she had her 2 young boys. She is a stay at home mom right now. Well, I hope you have a nice weekend. I can’t wait till John writes about all the new things CCL has in store for us! This is going to be my 14th cruise with Carnival coming up, I believe. I have lost count! Bye for now, Linda
John,
You can always try and buy a new sofa before she gets home. When she asks about the charge, UNTRACEABLE CREDIT CARD FRAUD untraceable credit card fraud. It doesn’t really exist, but it will keep you from sleeping under the stars. Or another option would be to spray paint the couch to “make it look better”. Keep enjoying your time off, and I’ll keep enjoying my 3 jobs and full-time student occupation.
Til’ next blog,
BigMike
John,
I have a great get-away-car if your afraid of Heidi’s reaction to the sofa. But I think she will understand ti was a accident not like CZJ was over and your were ok never mind. Things here are going well, I have been driving the aston every day lately, been helping with the lack of constant blogs. Once again thank you for everything you do for all of us. I think spotted dick might go over well on carnival ships, but i think the kids would be giggling about it’s name all the time. So maybe a rename. How is Alan doing, I think it’s great that your with your friend in his time of need. Where are you going to be and for about how long will you be there once you return back to work? I know some of us are waiting to see where your heading and for how long till be book our next cruises. SO please let us know or let us know when you will know this information. I am pleased to report that the John Heald Fan Club has passed 850 slaps today. And my blog is very close to 17,000 slaps, who would think. Best to mum and dad I hope they are well and I hope your keeping to your diet. Best to Heidi when you speak to her.
Kevin
Hi John;
It was great to see you blogging againg. I know it’s been a busy time for you. Actually, it was probably better because I was way behind in my reading. I’m all caught up. The video was a Great idea, hope to see more of those. I’m thrilled to hear you’re in your safe haven (home). Hope your enjoying the serenity of it all. Say hi to Heidi when she returns. I’m certain, she is having a good time with mum. John, I look forward to all the wonderful news you have in store for us regarding Carnival’s future. Say hi to Alan and his family and to continue fighting.
Hi John,
Funny how I just read your reply and I finished watching an episode of Faulty Towers on PBS Boston. The episode where he tries to pass off one of his chamber maids as Sybil and everyone leaves maimed while Sybil is stuffed in a closet and Manuel is wrestling on the floor with the chef who can’t prepare a proper Paiella. Great stuff!
Celebrating the time home alone with red wine? Or perhaps there WAS someone else with you who drinks red wine!! Whatever the case, red wine on leather (especially if it is light colored) is not a comforting feeling. Here’s hoping you can get it cleaned up, or at least convince Heidi that the new throw you bought for the sofa was a surprise for her homecoming. Good luck in the doghouse, mate!
Lance & Ilda.
Hmmmm…. Warm Chocolate Melting Cake or Spotted Dick (with custard of course!) Hmmmm…. it’s a toss up here! I vote… let’s have both!!! Have you got any pull with the chef on the bloggers cruise, John??? See what you can do! Please????
Barb
Morning!
It’s Sunday the 11th of Nov. and I see the Freedom has made it to Florida! Yippie!
Kathy and Paul
WELCOME TO MIAMI CARNIVAL FREEDOM
The CARNIVAL FREEDOM arrived in Miami for the first time at 3:30am est this morning. She is bow to bow with her sister ship the CARNIVAL VALOR. To view both bridge cam looking at each other click here;
http://www.kroooz-cams.com/carnivalindex.html
On the upper left you can switch between both ships plus view other webcams.
“BIG” ED
69 days to the BEST PARTY EVER
Hi John,
Long time no see. I’ve been very busy and was even stuck for a while in a place with no Internet (actually just not allowed). I thought that was illegal? I though I was going to die!
Anyway, I leave today on my Carnival Conquest cruise – the Zydeco Cruise and for any who are interested in following the adventure:
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/conquest_07/conquest_07.htm
We must not forget food, so here is a picture of a Philly cheese steak I inhaled from a deli near the Liberty Bell (in Philadelphia, of course):
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/philly_2007/pics/IMG_6324.JPG
Hi John,
Long time no see. I’ve been very busy and was even stuck for a while in a place with no Internet (actually just not allowed). I thought that was illegal? I though I was going to die!
Anyway, I leave today on my Carnival Conquest cruise – the Zydeco Cruise and for any who are interested in following the adventure:
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/conquest_07/conquest_07.htm
We must not forget food, so here is a picture of a Philly cheese steak I inhaled from a deli near the Liberty Bell (in Philadelphia, of course):
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/philly_2007/pics/IMG_6324.JPG
later!
Hi John,
Long time no see. I’ve been very busy and was even stuck for a while in a place with no Internet (actually just not allowed). I thought that was illegal? I though I was going to die!
Anyway, I leave today on my Carnival Conquest cruise – the Zydeco Cruise and for any who are interested in following the adventure:
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/conquest_07/conquest_07.htm
We must not forget food, so here is a picture of a Philly cheese steak I inhaled from a deli near the Liberty Bell (in Philadelphia, of course):
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/philly_2007/pics/IMG_6324.JPG
$#%
Hello John!
It is the weekend, so I once again had a chance to check the blog. Today is my birthday and I am trying to take care of things I want to do!
It was good to hear that Alan came through the surgery. It sounds like he has a long road of recovery,however, prayers and thoughts continue to be with him. I am sure he is glad that you are there to provide additional support for him.
I am sure your mom is glad to have the opportunity to fix meals for you and to have you home. Thanks for the comments about your “grazing habits”. I always enjoy hearing about what other people are eating. Since it is my birthday, our family is having dinner tonight at a seafood restaurant. They serve these jumbo marguritas which I dearly love. They also serve wonderful garlic cheese biscuits. Yummy!
It is good that Heidi is spending time with her mom also. I am sure her mom misses her when the two of you are on the ship. Did you say she would be returning around the 19th?
We will be preparing for Thanksgiving in the states. It is a big family celebration. People tend to eat way too much food. I always look forward to the leftover turkey for sandwiches. That is one of my favorite things to eat, but it has to be real turkey-not the pressed kind that is usually sold in stores for sandwiches. There will be seven or possibly eight people at our house for lunch. My husband really loves family gatherings and likes to see everyone get together. Usually, the day after Thanksgiving is a big shopping day. The stores open at 4:00 in the morning and crowds dash in to start their Christmas shopping. It is typically a madhouse. I try to avoid it at all cost and instead try to find ways to keep the children entertained because the daycare centers are also closed so the workers can go shopping.
Well, I think I should probably close for now.
Take care and I will try to find a way to check the blog more often. My husband is really good about checking the blog and printing it out for me. He had a busy week last week and did not get to visit the blog very much. I hope Alan continues to improve.
Any more word on the Splendor Inaugural activities, celebrities, etc. etc.?
John,
Just got home after our wonderful TA on the Freedom.
Wanted to say that your staff is absolutely fabulous. Being big game and trivia nuts, we spent a lot of time with Jamie, Adele, and Stitch — they were all so great and very patient with our wise cracks. The other kids were great, too.
I have to wonder about Mouna (sp?), though. She had the poor judgement to put me in the Legends show as Britney Spears. Now, I’m a hefty lady of a certain age (you might remember from the party — I’m the one with the Ferengi rules). After completely fluffing my song in the rehearsal, I was able to pull it all out in the real show — with no booing, thank goodness.
Everything about the ship was a blast, yummy, comfortable, fun. All that was missing was you.
Do you know where you will cruising be next?
It was a pleasure to meet you and Heidi in person. And thanks for taking the time for the bloggers party and the rememberance later.
BTW, Todd got us all together to pick our brains on ideas. Don’t know that he got much, though. Our brains were on cruise mode.
Hello John, and yes, I do play the clarinet =] It’s one of my favourite (spelled the British way since you’re home now) things. Enjoy your mum’s cooking, which I’m sure is nothing like the food on the Freedom, but I bet it’s good to get a taste of home after such a long period of being away. Can’t wait until you can tell us what’s new with Carnival!
Big Ed -
I was on that ship that arrived in Miami at 3:30am this morning
Now, I am on land and back home in MD – soon, work will require that I put in an appearance. Again
Jon
Hi mate. Welcome home. Mama Sheriff and I have not booked our next cruise yet. What are we waiting on? Things are good here at the County Jail. I guess that depends on which side of the bars you are on!!!!
Mate, I hope you enjoy being home for awhile. Hope to see ya soon!!
Handcuffs To All,
Rosco P. Coltrane
Sheriff
Hope you are alone long enough to miss people. ( missing Heidi is a given) You deserve the quiet time. But had to write when heard the news of a building exploding in England this morning. My prayers are everyone is alright. Mostly, hope terrorisms has not touched your country again. Just counting the days to meet with the Blogger’s in January…………What will you eat for Thanksgiving and do you celebrate that day? Bangers and red wine?
Stay sweet, and thanks for bringing us together with a lot of sweet people.
Yours,
Kathie
John, my friend!!!
I’m sure that you’ve heard that the writers are on strike in Hollywood… not that you could tell by me. I don’t watch much of any network TV. However, I just saw a piece that reported that BLOGGERS are now going on strike to demonstrate solidarity with their real world brethren!!!
Now, here’s my plan… you go on strike as well. You’re only demand is an Aston Martin at your disposal!
Think it will work???
Nah… I didn’t either but I thought I’d toss it out there.
Hope all is going well. Tell Alan that he is the target of lots of prayers.
Say ‘howdy’ to Heidi and Roberto for me!
Regards,
Greg
John,
I still don’t remember seeing a reply to my original message below:
John,
I want to take a guess on the the future of Carnival Cruise lines. You don’t have to tell me if I’m right or wrong but perhaps you could tell me if I’m hot or cold. I heard rumors a few years back that Carnival may be one of the first cruise lines to get into the “durigable” sector. I know an American company has designed a ultra modern durigable that they were going try to sell to cruise lines. They envisioned grand observation decks and even swimming pools. Instead of docking in difference countries, you’d actually fly over them at low altitudes and see first hand the rain forests, mountaines, etc. Am I hot or cold with this guess?
Eric