I was dreaming of George Hamilton……………..I don’t know but I was…………….he and I were sitting on a yacht eating caviar surrounded by beautiful women…………..there were two gorgeous ladies standing at the bar…………….they started to………..and then the alarm went off……………..I woke up thinking that for a small alarm clock it was really loud………….I then realized it wasn’t the wake up John alarm……………..it was the General Emergency Alarm…………….it was 3:00am. I immediately called the bridge thinking that if there had been a problem then surely the Captain would have called me first before ordering guests and crew to the muster station……………….I was right…………….it was a false alarm. A computer had decided that it was bored and therefore thought it would be funny to scare the heck out of everyone…………..I quickly jumped on the PA system which really hurt………….no, seriously I quickly made an announcement apologizing and blamed Bill Gates……..sorry Bill.
The guests all went back to sleep and obviously they are a very forgiving group as so far (it’s 11:18am) we have had no comments about this incident. After the announcement I went back to sleep hoping the two girls at the bar would be waiting for me but alas………George had been greedy and the yacht had sailed without me.
It has been a busy but rewarding morning. I hosted the Morning Show which I had to start early as I had so many letters……….you should see the pile I have already for Valentine’s Day…at least 50-plus – it seems love really is in the air. Outside of being an entertainer, there is the manager side of the job to deal with. I have only been here a few days but I already need to take care of a few urgent issues.
1. I have a staff member who has a time-keeping problem. He has been late twice in three days and I will be counseling him later today. The problem is that he has so much potential. I believe that everyone deserves a chance and hopefully he will listen to my advice and take his chance immediately.
2. As I am sure I have mentioned on this blog before, relationships happen very quickly on board a ship because you are always together. Sometimes relationships work and sometimes they do not. The problem is that when a relationship on a cruise ship breaks down you still see each other every day…………..and that can cause problems and affect the working environment. I have one such situation here with a couple who have been together for three years but for whatever reason they now literally hate each other and it is affecting the department and the working environment. So, later today I will put my marriage guidance councilor hat on and try to help them resolve their issues……………….if not………………well for the good of the department one of them will need to leave and be placed on another vessel.
These concerns are dealt with very differently then if you were a manager facing them on land. Here, you are a manager, a brother, a dad and sometimes all at the same time. I hope I can help resolve the issues as they are normally excellent staff members.
Now, on to the subject of the world’s ugliest man…………..my mate Alan. Many of you have been asking how he is doing and I am excited to tell you he is doing brilliantly and every day he gets stronger and stronger………….looking at him now you would never know he had major surgery. I am hoping he and his wife Alison and their wonderful children Katie and William will be able to join me on the Carnival Splendor. Alan was very upset he could not join us on the Bloggers cruise as he was looking forward to meeting Big Ed and the crew. Anyway, he also wanted me to pass on his continuing thanks for your on-going get well messages……………thank you all.
Here are a few random photos featuring, amongst others, tonight’s performer Marcus Anthony who performs a Motown review show…….he is amazing and his Marvin Gaye medley has the whole audience singing along.
Marcus Anthony and guests dancing in the ailses
Marcus Anthony
Marcus dancing with one of the guests
John with the backstage managers, Lizzie and Kevin
Michael the sound technician
The Dave Fulton Orchestra
TJ, the light technician
Puerto Rico by night
Here are today’s letters from the In Their Own Words Section.
Let’s get on with today’s Q and A session returning to the remainder of those from the Magic Stick blog.
JAROBB………….Congratulations on being a Princess Cruises fan. I hope to see just why they are so popular for myself when Heidi and I cruise on the Emerald Princess in March. You asked an excellent question ……….do all the CD’s have a Heidi……well actually most do not and this means they certainly do not have it as easy as I do with her being here to look after so much and, of course, me. It was so wonderful to hear that you are a blog fan and that the everyday stories have you laughing out loud……..that sort of comment assures that I will continue to produce a new thingy everyday. Thanks for reading and thanks for slapping on a comment. Cheers.
PAULA BAKER……………….Hello Paula and Hello Nelson…………great name by the way Nelson………….anyway, thanks for the encouragement with the stick thingy and I hope all my hard work is rewarded soon. Thanks for laughing and I hope you are both well.
MYRA BUSHNELL………………..Indeed, smiling is infectious and I hope each and every day I infect someone with a little bit of happiness. It’s great to be able to write to you again and Heidi and I send you our best wishes.
JULIE GANTT……….You are correct of course………….I should consider myself lucky, especially when you consider my younger years with Alan . Adopting is something that we have yet to talk about, hopefully my 3 minutes of performing for the stick will pay off. Hope all is well with you and your family.
LINDA HERNACKI………….Any spiritual help would be most welcome Linda………….and thank you for always thinking of us both.
SCOTT…………..WOW, a Discovery Special all about me………..a man can dream. As for Platinum Benefits, well we have a new Senior Vice President of Sales the lovely Lynn Torrent, and I am sure she is going to make sure that our valued Platinum Guests are rewarded more than ever………….I will personally champion this mission. Thanks mate and thanks also for all the kind words.
DRIVERNC……………I remember the couple well. They had been married 58 years and he did indeed bang his arm as he walked up the stairs. He was fine and did not need any medical help. However, I also remember that even after 58 years of marriage, he and his wife had a wonderful sparkle in their eyes as bright as when they first met. Heidi and I should be so lucky. It was wonderful meeting you both on the Bloggers Cruise and I hope you have as many happy memories of it as we do. Cheers.
THE BEARS, CARL AND BARB………….Great to hear from you and it was also super news that you are well now. Wee Jimmy did look sad in the photo, I think this was because it was our goodbye photo and we both knew it would be many months before we see each other again. I am happy that you continue to read my daily offerings and Heidi and I send our warmest regards to you both.
MARK……… I am sure your Mum and Dad are thankful everyday that they kept trying otherwise they would not have little you. Thanks for the words of support mate and personally, I love the word plugging!
ELAINA……….It is always wonderful to welcome new people to the blog and therefore I give you a warm welcome to my thingy. I will make sure I add a photo of Mark Price to the blog soon. You are right to mention him as he is a superb Cruise Director. Please keep reading the blog and I hope it continues to provide you with fun, laughter and information. Cheers.
RAY MCTEAGUE………….Hello mate. I understand exactly where you are coming from…..I also hesitated before letting the world know that a stick is dictating (pardon the pun) what we do. However, for once I am not in the dog house and I am glad to hear that you are not there either. I am going to explore the world of Wheaties and see if is more enjoyable than All Bran and Shredded Wheat……………….it cannot possibly be any worse. Great to hear from you as always and best to your wife.
MCFROG 2………….I wanted to say thank you so much for saying you think I will be a good Dad. I certainly love kids…………..I went to school with them. I hope we are blessed with kids as super as Catie and please send my best to all your family.
CATHY SHORT………….Thank you………….it is exhausting though. Thanks also for taking the time to read the blog. Cheers.
TERRI 910…………Firstly let me apologize for the delay in replying to comments and questions. When I was home I needed to give myself a little rest and therefore the blog format changed somewhat. Anyway, I did see the posting about how unhappy you were about karaoke and the policy not to allow guests to use their own CD’s………….that’s compact discs not Cruise Directors. In the past we have had CD’s that have been damaged by our players and guests threatening the host with a pointed stick which is why this policy was introduced…………….however…………….I see no reason that if a guest understands that we are not responsible should your CD burst into flames then we should play the disc……………I will address this immediately and will ask that the policy change. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. All the best.
DEANNA……………..I am so sorry we didn’t get to meet personally but I am very happy that your first cruise has you hooked so much that you have booked two more…………..that makes me feel very honoured indeed. You will love the Carnival Triumph and as for the Carnival Splendor………I have a feeling this will be one special ship. See you then and all the best.
IVANA…………Thanks for the best wishes……everyday now has the possibility of being Thursday………help.
CRUISINGRANDMA………Your Mum sounds like my Mum…………thank you for offering to knit a little blanket and while you are doing it any chance of a pair of winter underwear…………size xxl? Thanks Grandma…………can I call you Grandma?
DEB………….a 149-page binder……….now that’s preparation. When I read that there was no information on Platinum Rewards on our web site I silently said to myself……………..it’s there, she just has not seen it……………….and you know what……………I was wrong and quite frankly…………….I am gobsmacked. You are correct, we should be blowing this trumpet loud and proud on the front page and it is not easy to find. However, with a little detective work I did find the link thingy…………here it is
http://www.carnival.com/CMS/static_templates/concierge.aspx
I hope you find this useful. Thanks for bringing this to my attention and all the best.
BETTYBOOPBIGKAHUNA…………….What, by the way, is a Kahuna and is yours really big? Anyway, it’s a great name and it’s wonderful to hear from you both. Amazingly I am not in the doghouse for sharing our “stick” life but that could change at any moment. Thanks for your nice words and thanks mostly for taking the time to write………….Heidi and I send our best to you both.
TOM AND JANE……………….Ahhhhhhh, my black Aston Martin. You know, I was reading an article today that the said the easiest car in the world to drive is a Mercedes S600. Apparently the controls are so easy and the car so intelligent a ten-year-old could drive it…………………but for me , it’s the Aston Martin. It’s wonderful to hear from you both and Heidi and I send you best wishes and hope we see each other again very soon. Thank you for everything.
On that note we will end the Q and A for today. My left hand index finger is throbbing now and the finger nail is turning black……..I look like Cruella De Ville.
As you know, I recently sailed on the Carnival Imagination and it seems that I was not the only one who was astonished at what I found. Here is a video link thingy on what a travel web thingy had to say……………..have a look.
http://www.traveltrade.com/index.htm;jsessionid=9E58094FA36323ADBCD086AD3B0C053A
I have not had time to tell you yet about the three large groups who are sailing this voyage. First, we have a large incentive group from Isuzu Commercial Trucks. There are 300 of them here and they include the top salesmen who have been awarded this cruise………………I am sure some of them are ladies so should I have said salespeople?………………..probably. They have daily meetings in the ship’s lounges as they discuss the ways to make Isuzu trucks the most successful in the world……….the only advice I have is choose a name that is easier to say. Anyway, they are having a wonderful time despite being forced to attend 8:00am meetings.
Then we have a group of 288 people who live and breath…………………Polka Music. This is one fun group and this afternoon I went to one of their performances in the International Lounge. I watched them dance and enjoy a style of music they obviously love so very much. I met many of the guests there, all of whom seemed to have a last name that ended in the letters “ski” and were harder to say than Isuzu.
I found my foot tapping to the music as its infectious style took hold……………..however…………..it had a sinister side……….it was being used to hypnotize me………to lower my defenses……………it worked……………..my guard was down………….it was then that I heard Mitch Lebrowski the group leader say………….”let’s get the Cruise Director John up here for the next dance”……..oh hell.
Now, for those newcomers who may not know this …………….I hate dancing……………I would rather kiss Judge Judy….with tongues, I would rather wipe my bottom with sandpaper ………….I would rather watch 100 back-to-back episodes of the most boring TV show in the world………it’s on PBS and shamefully it’s British………..”the Antiques Road show.”
This is a program watched by millions of people and features a bunch of people who have robbed their relatives, rummaged through cupboards to find something that hopefully will be worth a fortune. They then stand in line for hours to present their personal piece of crap to an “expert” who is usually older than the piece they are looking at. Then the game begins as the owner of the antique sits through 10 minutes of boring rubbish about where it was made, when and by whom…………they nod and smile with interest but they are really thinking………….hurry up and tell me how much it’s worth. Then, when the “expert” tells them that its worth $5 they always say “oh, I would never sell this, it’s a family air loom”……yea, right. Worst of all we watch it every week, expecting Grandma Smith to have discovered a Picasso or the Ark of the Covenant in her attic.
So, now you understand how much I hate dancing………….and as for Polka…………well that’s even worse. However, as soon as he said “lets get John up here to dance.” 200 people started applauding ………………….and that was me……………doing the Polka…………John Healdski………………looking a foolski and wishing I had gone to see the other group and learnt how to sell an Isuzu truck.
Goodnight
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.
If I get to wipe the smile off my face I may actually get some work done today!
Thrilled would not be the right word to describe how happy I am over your report on Alan’s progress. You know, John, that you’ve managed to turn this from a blog into a very large, very diverse, very odd family. This is good news for all of us!
Your mention of having to deal with the problems a few of the crew have brings another dimension to my understanding of how extensive and involved the job of Cruise Director really is! How many hats do you have to wear, my friend?
It’s bad enough to encounter ‘dreamus interptus’ but when you dream is interrupted by a general alarm it has to be… well… alarming!! How hard was your heart pounding when you realized what you were hearing at first?
Finally, why are there no pictures of you dancing the Polka? Perhaps it’s better not to ask…
Thanks for another wonderful blog, my friend!!
All my best to the lovely Heidi, the Famous Roberto and the Spectacular Stephanie!!
Cheers, mate!!
Greg
Very very glad to hear Alan is doing well. I wish a continued strong recovery.
That is unfortunate that you were woken up by the emergency alert bell, but at least the ship is still floating and your not typing this blog from the bottom of the ocean; that would be a problem.
I can only imagine how difficult it must be to restore order between a couple who no longer gets along – especially when you are confined on a ship. I wish you the best of luck in figuring that mess out.
What is the status of the Carnival Splendor’s godmother? Do you have any idea who it might be?
Warm Regards,
Nico R
Hello John!
I thought I’d stop by and introduce our Cruise Critic bloggers group for the ’09 cruise on the Fantasy! We’re calling our cruise ‘Bayou Bloggin’ With John Heald.’ We’ve got a rapidly growing, very enthusiastic group over at Cruise Critic who can’t wait to get to New Orleans to celebrate the rebirth of one of America’s truly great cities!!
For many of us, this will be our first time cruising with you but you’ll also see many familiar faces in our crowd! One thing is for sure, we all love your blog and will be waiting patiently to hear about all the fun that you have in store for us!!
Laissez les bon temps roule!!
Hi John, I admit I am addicted to reading your blog daily! I have seen you in action on the Triumph and have been on Carnival now the last eight years!This next cruise, my husband decided to go to your sister Costa. I am nervous. I love the party that you all give at Carnival. Can you tell me something what to expect? We will be on Mediterania?! I don’t know. HOw is the food, entertainment, and CD’s like you? I know we will be back on Carnival next year, what ship will you be on.? We want to go on your bloggers too next year on Fantasy. We have been on it twice once before and then after the renovation! What a difference, would have never known it was the same ship. Miss you John, Good luck with the magic stick!! Hi to Heidi
Good Morning John,
Sorry about your early wake up call but glad it was not an emergency. Also glad to hear that Alan is doing much better and maybe we can meet him on the Splendor. Speaking of which, do you have any information about the inaugural activities and will the guests be able to attend?
Any news you can share about the Carnival Dream? Since it isn’t scheduled to come out until October 09 I’m thinking it won’t stay in Europe but where will it go?
When we’re on the Splendor maybe we can do a Polka. Even though our names don’t end in “ski” we are in that group and love Polka music.
Hope you get your problems resolved with the crew and everything gets back to smooth sailing.
Enjoy your day and good luck with the stick thingy.
George and Linda
Polka!
I love Polka music! Where’s Bobby Vinton when you need him??
Kathy and Paul
I’m glad to hear that Marcus Anthony is still performing on Carnival. He was on one of my Conquest cruises & he truly is great!
Here’s some information you may find interesting. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn…1?hpid=topnews. It seems that the European Union Congress will vote Feb. 13th on a bill that would require all US residents to be fingerprinted upon arrival in Europe & departure from Europe. Hopefully the Europeans will be able to carry this out in a more civilized manner than our immigration officials. Now days traveling is a real pain but I guess it’s a just sign of the times. I’m not upset about this possibility cause I think if we “dish it out”, we should also be “able to take it”.
.
John, Pat is polish and will be glad to do a polka with you on the 2009 Bloggers Cruise. Her maiden name though not ending in SKI is very polish, Szukiewicz, give that a try saying. Maybe you can get some help this week pronouncing it.
Tell Alan My Evil Crew missed him on the first BC but that we hope all our prayers have him ready to come to New Orleans for the 2009 BC.
We are all waiting to hear more about Elton John May being on the next BC. The pre-cruise activity I read about helping Brad Pitt’s charity, MAKE IT RIGHT, sounds like fun also I can’t wait to pound my nail with AJ watching and taking pictures of me “BIG” ED.
ATTENTION BLOGGERS
So if your coming to the 2009 Bloggers Cruise click on my name at the top and get on My Evil Crew’s Roll Call. No telling what we will plan for that cruise.
John,
There is something just so inherently wrong with having these eight words in such close proximity “Pole Dancing…I was dreaming of George Hamilton…” Or maybe it’s just my mind belying my sweet and innocent reputation. LOL!
Anyway, I hope the polka dancers gave you a wide berth as you got up and “danced” with them. I know first hand, the havoc your “dancing” can wreak, as I am just now getting the feeling back in my feet after standing next to you during the Blogger’s Dance.
I really love having you back to your old ways with this blog.
Thanks for the pictures of the tech guys and girls, I’ve lived with a stage manager, am friends with a set designer and in love with a sound engineer, so I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the jobs that the backstage folks do. So thanks for shining your spotlight there.
Glad to hear Alan is doing well. Maybe he’ll be up for Blogger Cruise v.2.0?
All the best,
Laura
aka Princess Laura, the sweet, innocent and pushy
Good Afternoon John and Heidi,
Sorry about your “bo bo” on your finger. Hope it get better soon. Glad to hear that Alan is getting better by the day. I was thinking about him so let him know he is still in my prayers.
I can imagine the problems associated with managing a staff on a ship. Jack and I have kept in touch with two exceptional Carnival employees and have heard how difficult relationships can be on land or a ship. My hats off to you. I’m sure that you are a wonderful and understanding person to work for.
The improvements on the Carnival Imagination are amazing. I can hardly wait to see what the Carnival Fantasy is like.
By the way have you figured out what I was asking several blogs back about the woman on the Miracle? I think she was call Mother not Mama. She directed question and/or problem to the right department or person. We would see her in different places on the ship..always smiling and always with a crowd of people around her, laughing and talking. What a nice touch for the guests.
Take care,
Joan
Hello, John,
Do you suppose you could convince George Hamilton to join the 2009 Bloggers’ cruise? Wouldn’t he have a wonderful time, finally meeting you in person instead of in your dreams, as well as meeting the bloggers who vicariously enjoy the midnight misadventures of John and George?! Perhaps he could bring Angie or Catherine Z-J, or whomever is your current cutie d’jour. (With Heidi’s permission, of course.)
Thank you for bringing us up to date on Alan and his family. It’s wonderful to hear he’s doing so well. I’m sure it lifts your heart to have him getting back to normal so you can once again pick on him without feeling guilty.
Let us know how you handle your “employee” crises, and how it all works out. You could be an on-line management consultant who works for sugar-free jelly beans. Personnel management is the “ickiest” part of any job, especially when one has affection and/or high hopes for the troublesome employee. But I suppose it’s good practice for fatherhood, eh?
Which reminds me, I hope Heidi is enjoying your nightly “Thursdays” more than you seem to be. You know, you have a problem I always thought most men would love…but I guess the old adage may be true: “All work and no play, etc….”
You mentioned three large groups were sailing with you this cruise. So who are the third group? You told us about Isuzu and Polka People, and I for one want to know who else is on-board.
Best Wishes as always,
Myra
John,
It is so hard to imagine how awesome our cruise is going to be. I look at the pictures of the Freedom and know that they probably don’t do it justice. My only wish is once we are on the ship, the days go nice and slow so we can soak it all in. I know, we will have to book another one just to do that, right? Done!!! As soon as our daughter is married off and we have money again. HA HA!
Hello John!
My name is Melody and I’m a regular on the message boards at Cruisemates.com. You will be thrilled to know that I will be on the next blog cruise! I live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (very close to New Orleans!) and we are planning some great things for this gathering! I’ve recruited friends and co-workers to join in the fun! If you love New Orleans as much as we do, please consider joining us as we “Second Line”! We have a pajama party planned for our group, a slumber party for the ladies, and cocktails for everyone. We are hard at work on a theme song, top 10 reasons to join this cruise, door magnet designs, and a multitude of other activities to keep us busy for a year! We have also begun to post photos of all the Cruisemates who will be on the “Blog2NOLA” cruise, so stop by our site and check out the wonderful people who are joining you on this trip!
I’ll be with you for your planned activities in the Big Easy. I must caution you though….Kuki smacks my hand on occasion. I tend to push the envelope and yank his chain, so don’t believe anything he tells you about me. I’m sure I will be seated at his table for dinner,
so stop by to say “Hi!” If Venice (another Cruisemate from the New Orleans area!) and I can help in any way with local issues, please let us know. We are known for our Southern hospitality and charm!
Hi John & Heidi,
It is so, so good to have you back in Cruise Director Mode and to have the good, old blog thingy that we all know and love. I hope the finger is healing well. But after reading about your trip from Hell from Jamaica to Miami, I am so glad I booked the Miracle out of NY for my next cruise. I don’t want to have to deal with all that stuff of going through security, and boarding passes and lines and waiting. Just give me a short little 20-minute cab ride from my house to the pier – that’s all I ask.
You really do wear many hats as CD, don’t you? Marriage counselor, referee.
Thanks for the interview with Ron. Did you ever get a chance to hear Steve on the Imagination? Tried getting him to sing Sweet Caroline, but he said his book didn’t have it. Hmmm. He did other Neil Diamond songs, lots of Elton John, and of course Piano Man.
And Marcus Anthony was on the Triumph in 2003. I love MoTown and I was singing along with him. He got me up on stage too to dance with him like that photo you posted of the lady in blue. Got a bottle of champagne for it, too.
I’m really glad to hear Alan is doing so much better. Pass along my best wishes please.
I also want to know about the Dream. And do you know if you’ll be on her?
Gotta go,
Hugs to all,
C.
Hey John,
Actually, the humor writer Dave Barry has a good piece of advice to guys about dancing – nobody really cares how goofy you look dancing, so just get out there and do it!
Considering what you made poor Mr. “Michigan” do all through the BC, I’m afraid I can’t work up even a tiny bit of sympathy for you looking silly doing a polka. And where are the pictures? You can’t tell me there weren’t at least 100 snaps taken of your Tyrolean Terpsichore.
So glad to hear Alan is improving. Maybe he can come on the next BC since he missed the first one.
Good afternoon John,
I have just begun reading your blog thingy and am enjoying it immensely. Our family will be sailing on the Freedom 3/15 to Western Caribbean. It will be our 5th Carnival “springbreak” cruise in a row. We have college age children, hence our reason for sailing then. We have never experienced you as a cruise director and wonder if you will be there for our trip. Last year on the Liberty we have the great pleasure of meeting Todd Witmer and we loved him. We have also met Stuart Dunn, Brent Mitchell and Steve Casel?. From all I have read so far, I think you would be a hoot to sail with. I know I read you may be leaving the ship earlier than planned. Any news on that yet? Look forward to meeting you.
Margie from New Jersey
I love the Antique Road Show!
John:
Glad to hear that the sound you heard in the middle of the night was not an emergency, if you could only hear the sound I hear at night (it is what Mat calls a tender snore) ~ trust me it is worse than someone sawing logs ….
Glad to hear all is well ~ after our New Year’s Cruise on the Freedom being so wonderful we are planning out next ~ Hawaii or a Med Cruise we are deciding this weekend …
Vikki and Mat
hello john and heidi,
please keep the blog coming. the stories you have posted have been great. i sit at the computer everyday and laugh out loud. my wife must think im nuts.
we will be sailing with you on sat feb 16th. looking foward to a great time.
john steers
carnival cruise lines
port canaveral
Okay John,
Hello, now you sound like my husband, with the dancing thing. Last night I said to him, Joe I would really love to take a swing class and his reply to me was “Lori I would rather have my toe nails pulled out”. What the heck????
That is almost the same response I received when about a month ago I said something like “I think we should do a date night once a month” there was alot of grumbling and something about toe nails, but I am now putting my efforts towards finding him a bigger dog house, and no smiling magic stick for him.
I hope you had Fun rolling in the Barrel
dancing……..
john well our luck for winter has wrong out, it is finally snowing in central new jersey this afternoon (tuesday) first time this winter, 1-2 inches then freezing rain ice condition later tonight and tomorrow morning. Wow even cruise ships has false alarms and computer problems. Loved the pictures with marcus anthony he is a great singer, carnival has a great act with him on the ships.
John & Heidi, I was on the Conquest anchored at Grand Cayman when you were on the Victory in the same port last week. I found it sad that Butch got to go over and spend time with you (albeit in a meeting) and I didn’t get to see you. Pout. Thank y0u for the interview with Ron Pass! Of all the Piano Bar entertainers I’ve had the pleasure of singing along with (good thing he keeps his mic loud) he’s definitely one of the best! Lastly, I’ve made this suggestion on at least 2 of my cruises with no reply, so now I’ll ask it of you: Would it be possible to have whatever is said on the ship’s PA system (CD, Captain or Purser) come into the cabins on the ship’s channel? The channel I’m thinking of is the one with the ship’s location, heading, and weather continuously displayed with background music (channel 14 on some ships). By the time I realize you’re talking and run to the door to hear, I’ve missed something. But, if I could just pop over to channel 14, I could hear you in various states of dress (or undress) without having to hide behind the door. It’s understandable and appreciated that you don’t pipe into the cabins…sometimes that bit of nap is really necessary! Thanks for all you do. – Cynthia
Hi John/Heidi:
Great seeing daily blogs again. Just like old times.
I really liked the pictures today and would love to hear Marcus Anthony’s Motown rap.
I’m really happy to hear that Alan’s recovery is going well. I’m still thinking of him.
I’d love to see a picture of you dancing the polka, so hopefully someone will be able to come through for us.
Happy early Valentine’s Day. I know it falls on Thursday so hopefully that works out well for you?
Hope all is well.
David
Mr Healdski:
Im with you in that, I have 2 left feet. The thing is that for me it is worse because im latin and everybody thinks that we can dance, but I got news for you not me or my husband (TG we have always been a perfect match). When I was younger I used to hide in the bathroom when a song was starting because I didnt wanted anyone to ask me to dance.I like dancing but its not for me. Shame because it is a beautiful manifestation of life and hapiness.
And for the psicologist, psychiatrist, dad, brother, friend job you are perfect!! Do you know how many of us have you save from depression??.Your crew is lucky to have you.
Im glad Alan is doing so good!!
Did you see?? My husband is writing also, now he is reading your blog everyday like me.
Isuzu easy! Say this: E sue sue
See you soon
Nanni
Hi John,
Glad to hear about Alan! Please tell him we are still keeping him in our hearts and prayers.
Thanks for the photos of Marcus Anthony. We saw both his stage show and his atrium mini-show on the Freedom in November. He was fantastic! We loved his performances and wished they lasted longer.
Papa-Father-Mr. John, these consuleing exercises are training and preparing you for the day when…. yep…..it becomes your responsibility to guide little John Jr in the world. Think of today as on the job training
)) …………pleasant dreams tonight, maybe George and the ladies will be at the bar.
Cheers, Ray
John,
That sounds like a tough job, maybe you should try a new shipboard TV program Dr. John (hey, it worked for “Dr.” Phil.). I am surprised you did not have to deal with anything about the emergency alarm, did it go to all of the guests cabins? If it were me, I would have been out on the emergency deck saying let’s get this going but it surprises me that no one was angry. You get complaints over the stupidest s##t like caviar, but no body says anything when the emergency alarm goes off. My friend, I think you got very lucky and that you have a good group traveling with you and that MahJong Lady is not on the ship.
_BigMike
John,
Thanks for the update on Alan. Sure hope he will be able to be on Blogger’s Cruise v2.0.
When will the lovely Heidi be blessing us with another blog?
elaine
So glad to hear that Alan is well on his way to restored health. It would be so perfect if he and his family could join the Bloggers 2 cruise.
Loved the interview with Ron Pass. We have not had the pleasure of sailing with him (yet).
Add some interviews with the karaoke hosts as well, please!!! Melvin H. (Imagination KH) gave me the most amazing cd with him singing some of his favorite songs. He and Sigrid such a special couple. Their “stick” has already worked with a little Melvin or Sigrid on the way later this year.
We are so excited for them.
Of course you can call me Grandma!! Although I must tell you that I am a very young Grandmother. I became a grandmother at the age of 39. But yes you can call me Grandma. I have many adopted and fostered kids because my house was the one that all my children’s friends wanted to hang out at. I always have home made treats for everyone, even sugar free for one who was diabetic.
Now about those winter underwear—I don’t think so. I was so glad to here about Alan!! He has been in my thoughts a lot.
I have a couple of questions. How do I get a picture of me on my comments? And how do I get pictures to you and Heidi?
I need to go rest. The treatments plus a cold have just taken away all of my energy lately. Remember to relax.
CarolAnn
Hey John,
Marcus Anthony, my parents saw him onboard the Glory and my mom was so impressed that she bought a CD of his. Wow. That brings back memories…
Good stuff. Now i’m back to homework.
Bryan
Please tell Allan, we are very glad to hear he is getting stronger, and we will continue to pray for his health, and for his entire family.
Thanks, too, for addressing our concern (re: karaoke).
And reading about all the “ski’s” in the Polka group brought back memories of you and Larry trading Polack and Brit jokes back and forth on your morning show on the Freedom last May! I’ll bet your polka group could’ve told you a few, too!
Terri
HI JOHN, SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE HAPPY TO BE BACK TO YOUR NORMAL LIFE ON THE SHIP !!! AS FAR AS DANCING GOES WHAT WOULD LIKE MORE , POLKA DANCING OR YOUR LITTLE DANCE WITH MARY (ON THE BLOGGERS CRUISE ) ,WHICH I KNOW YOU NEVER FORGET !!! AND NEITHER WILL I !!! NEVER LAUGHED SO HARD IN MY LIFE . LOVE READING THE BLOGGS DAILY . ANY SMILEY FACES TODAY. GOOD LUCK TO YOU BOTH, TONY AND KELLEY VANCE
John, its so nice to have you back to the regular blog thingy format. I didn’t realize how much I missed it! Thanks for the pictures of the crew area and also sharing some of the challenges of your job that we never thought of you having to handle.
Thanks for updating us on Alan and his recovery.
I am currently in the process of convincing my husband that the 2009 bloggers cruise would be the absolute BEST way to celebrate our 50th birthdays. We are six months apart (making me much, much younger than him).
We are currently in the middle of a blizzard in northeast Ohio. Everything is closed and the roads are terrible. I am really looking forward to a Florida vacation in 22 days. I wish it was a cruise but NEXT year it will be, I am sure!
Looking forward to a blog from Heidi in the near future.
It’s great to have you back!
KarenR
JOHN, WITH THE PICTURE OF THE YOU POLKA DANCING AND OF THE NAME YOU WILL NEVER FORGET (MARY) , I FORGET TO SAY WHAT TRAGIC END TO A MAGICAL DREAM. THANKS BILL GATES.
TONY AND KELLEY
Typowy Anglik Leczyć się -
(the above is the translation of John Heald when run through http://www.translation-guide.com/free_online_translators.php?from=English&to=Polish)
I have to say that it is difficult to have sympathy for a man whose wife wants to have sex with him on a frequent basis, but it is good to know what Heidi really sees in you (a question I am sure many of us ask ourselves every time we read your blog). She sees reliability, stability, the Prudential Rock – either that, or she needs a good Optometrist to check her prescription
Now, onto the issue of the Polka and, more importantly, the issue of dancing period. How can you, the entertainer that you are, the loving husband that you are, the loving father to be that you are of a beautiful daughter, not like to dance? Have you ever been taught to dance? Have you and Heidi taken lessons with that purpose in mind? Maybe if you and Alan had learned to dance as youngsters, you wouldn’t have spent your formative years discovering that he was ugly and girls did not seek out guys with ugly friends (sorry, Alan, I have to make my point).
Now, what else can I comment on – Mark Anthony. He was great on the transatlantic and Todd had him give a special concert for the midnight deck party. Absolutely wonderful.
As to the Dave Fulton Orchestra – TOP NOTCH. What can I possibly say – superlative music.
Well, its only Tuesday night, but I am sure that you are feeling the pressure. Remember, its not the means to the end, but the ends that matters.
Meanwhile, smile when Heidi and the stick smile.
Jon
Hello Mr. Healdski or can I just call you Johnski?
I don’t polka… er dance either. So, you have one up on me.
Thank you for the photos of Marcus Anthony. Carl and I have seen him on 2 cruises now and I love him. We bought his CD and it is in my cars CD player. He is such a talented man.
Carl and I were so happy to read that Alan is doing so well. Maybe we will get the pleasure of meeting him soon. We will keep him and his family in our prayers.
Maybe we will hear from Heidi soon? It’s been a long time since she has written a blog for us. Maybe she can give your sore finger a rest. LOL
Thanks again for getting back to the old fashioned blogs… we sure enjoy them!
Barb
Good evening Mr. Heald. It must be difficult to deal with the many problems that arise on the ship but it also gives you happiness when it all comes together. When does the Splendor come into being? Is its itinerary already arranged for the year and will it have an itinerary with the Caribbean in mind? I hope you liked the pins from my town and its history.Well I have to go now to begin writing my own blog. Ciao.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
Mr. Healdski,
Just be very careful dancing to Polish music…you could POLKA someone’s eye out!!
Hmmm, how about George Hamilton Heald, or perhaps Georgina? Just a thought. “Stick” with it, mate! At any rate, we are very glad to hear that Alan is doing well.
It would be very nice to see him (or George Hamilton) on the NOBC in 2009. I’m thinking a nice POLKA dot dress for the lovely Heidi.
Lance & Ilda
John, could you please talk about what’s new with the “Carnival C” program? Carnival.com/family talks about a dance floor and seperate area. What is actually new with this program?
Is the 12 to 14 year old program moving downstairs from the Camp Carnival room down to the game room (aka O2). The drift I got was that this was becoming more a part of O2, including sharing the same youth counselors as O2. Also will there be segregated programs? When I was on the Valor during Spring Break 07 after a certain hour, O2 was only open to people 15 & above. Are you lowering that age? If so, that seems to match the feedback I heard from my younger brother (age 14).
Or will there be an actual space conversion? What will be renovated? Looking forward to hear what’s actually going on -Michael http://theplaz.com
John,
How wonderful to read your blog again, and to hear your words in my mind! I’m back from the ECSTASY and the only excitement we had was an extra night in Galveston because of fog… No Progreso… But there will be more cruises, including your Bloggers’ in ’09 that I will be on… I’ll see Progreso, then!
How dreadful about the computer boredom, but what a great story for everyone to share when they see their friends…
Great news for you to share about Alan… but ugliest man… NEVER!! I hope you are well protected next time he visit with you! He may get back at you. Our prayers and wishes don’t ever stop, but this is wonderful to hear!
Polka… Hummm… I don’t remember hearing any last week… But then I couldn’t be everywhere at the same time… Maybe there was a Polka somewhere… But until then, I just settle for you dance in my dreams!
I hope you had a great week with Goose… We missed him, Kind of… Kirk was a great stand in for him on the Ecstasy!! I definitely want to pass on a compliment about him. He was FANTASTIC!!
And Captain Scala… I was charmed and intrigued and fascinated when he spoke. And He took the time to actually meet all of us. Carnival has a WONDERFUL ECSTASY crew!!! I have many compliments to give!
Regards,
Kirsten
Wow! Those pics of Marcus Anthony brought back great memories!! Fabulous performer…we enjoyed him alot on the Freedom last May. Glad to hear that Alan is coming along nicely…..we’re all still thinking of him. And I can see that things are back to “normal” on the cruise ship….all those interesting little events that often go on unseen (I’m guessing the guests would have wished for unheard at 3 AM!) but need to be dealt with by someone (the multitalented CD is a good choice!). Good luck on your relationship counselling! Take care, Gloria
John Healdski….does this mean we’re related?
bwahahahahahaahahahahaha!
)
John we are also booked for the 2009 Bloggers cruise with the Cruise Critic group. I guess you got within our driving distance. We have sailed out of NOLA a couple of times and were on the Fantasy last year. We are looking forward to the Fantasy makeover and to meeting you and Heidi (Howdy Heidi). I will be the ones wearing jeans in the dining room on formal night. For some reason that gets them all riled up on Cruise Critic.
Hi John & Heidi,
was asked by our Cruise Critic Host to come on over and introduce myself (although I have been posting on your Blog for a while now. (-: ).
I am a member of the Cruise Critic Bayou Bloggers group and I was also given the privledge yesterday of becoming one of Big Ed’s Evil Crew. I am really going to enjoy this cruise!
My wonderful hubby Michael will be sailing with me on your Bloggers Cruise and we can hardly wait.
Anyway, hello from cold icy Maryland.
Sallie
You dream of George Hamilton as much as I dream about Bob Barker. Great to hear Alan is doing much better. The thought of you Polka dancing brought a grin to my face….Perhaps you could take up Klompen dancing too…..of course while wearing wooden shoes!
http://blog.mlive.com/michigan_travel/2007/05/klompen_dancers_stepping_out_o.html
John,
I’m sure that the person you’re talking to about the lateness will respond if he truly has the potential that you think. This kind of task is never fun going into, but if the person responds it can, in the long run be rewarding. Of course, you’ve done this before and know it.
As always, I enjoyed the picture you posted.
Oh and by the way, the next time you have to send your great dream away in the middle of the night, you could send them my way!
I actually went to an American version of Antiques Roadshow with stuff to have evaluated. It was a total blast! The lines were short and fast, the experts completely charming. A number of my friends went to and we all had an amazing experience. Maybe it’s better to participate than watch?
I hate to hear about staff problems. We loved your staff on the Freedom TA. They were so nice and very funny. I really appreciated the inclusion of Stitch. He was so atypical of most CD staff and the contrast was nice (we lurved them all, BTW). I hope everything works out well.
Hello John,
I have a question about a news story I read yesterday in the Key West Citizen. The story stated that the US Customs and Border Protection Agency would require foreign flagged cruise ships (which they virtually all are) to spend 48 hours in a foreign port after leaving a US port. The article stated that this would virtually wipe Key West off the map as far as a cruise ship port.
Is Carnival active in lobbying against this new interpretation of an older law? Is there anything citizens can do? I can’t even imagine what that would do for the economy of Key West, not to mention the havoc it would wreak on Carnival’s itineraries.
We travel yearly to Key West, it is our favorite US city. We also have a cruise planned on the Freedom in December and the first port is Key West. We were looking forward to sharing our beloved city with the friends cruising with us.
Thanks again for the blog, it really brightens a cold winter day here in upstate NY!
John and Heidi,
I am going to try this again. I have entered several comments and they seem to get lost in cyberspace. It is good to have things returning to normal. The blog is taking on its regular format and “life is good” again.
We had a horrible wind storm on Sunday. As a result, we had no electricity for 52 hours! It was a nightmare. My husband and I found ourselves taking the grandchildren to get a hot meal and lingering as long as we could at the restaurant. Then we would drive home and send them straight to their rooms to curl up in their blankets. The next morning, I would get up early and heat up the cars. Then we would get the kids up, get them ready very quickly, hand them a muffin, and send them out the door to the warm car. Luckily, the electricity returned last night. When you have to go without something like that for a few days, it becomes a very important commodity to you!
We are looking forward to the Splendor! Want to hear about some possible shore excursions.
Glad Alan is improving. Any chance he will be on the inagural voyage with his family? It would be great to meet them.
Ruth
Hi John & Heidi,
Good luck with the staff problems it is never easy.
Lisa and I have just had confirmation of our booking for 30th August on Splendor, so starting to get excited already. Hope this time we can meet you in person. In the past we have spoken via the microphone at your morning session but would love to say gooday to both of you.
Keep up the great blogging.
Suzanne & Lisa (Downunder)
Hi Mr.Heald,
My family and I are going on a cruise on March 15th on the Freedom (W/C) and I am interested in the technical side of theatre. I operate the light board for my High school’s productions and work at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center. My Dad has been reading your blog thingy and showed me the picture of TJ and his lighting boards. I was wondering if it was possible that I could get a tour of the technical side of the amazing theatre aboard the Carnival Freedom.