It was around 11:00am and I had just finished our production meeting where we discuss the technical aspects of the department and our shows. Myself, Heidi and Matt, one of the technicians, were lingering behind having a chat when I saw a man hovering around us. Sensing he needed assistance I asked him if I could help. I was already programmed for the standard questions……..where is the internet café……………what tour do I recommended in St. Marteen……….where is the gangway……..etc etc……………..however nothing had prepared me for the words that followed……………….I need you to save my marriage……….all three of us stood there waiting for a joke or a witty remark from him but as we waited the single tear that cascaded down his cheek showed us that he was entirely serious.
I invited him to sit down and was about to ask Matt to give us a few minutes but the kid was smart and turned on his heels and ran………………leaving just Heidi and myself with a man who we had never met, who was now crying like someone who has peeled a hundred onions. Heidi went to get the man some tissues and eventually he stopped crying…………….now what was the problem I asked.
Well, it took Mr. Kleenex 30 minutes between fits of uncontrollable sobbing to tell me that last night he got very, very drunk and returned back to his cabin at 5:00am………..yep……….5:00am. His wife was of course not happy and accused him of ….well……seeking entertainment else where if you know what I mean. ………………..so, what exactly did he want me to do was the question I asked………..his reply “help me.”
Now at this point I was wondering why he thought I could help………….asking me for marital advice is as pointless as putting a snooze button on a smoke alarm………….I am certainly no expert and considering I spend more time in the dog house than out of it, it seemed that there would be little I could do.
However, Mr. Kleenex had a plan. He remembered going to the casino but can remember little else after that as his evening apparently was sponsored by Budweiser. He wanted me to do two things. Sit and review the security camera footage from last night and then talk to his wife telling him that I had done so and had not seen him staggering to Easy Elsie’s cabin or smooching on Lido Deck with Slack Alice.
What was I to say…………the man was really upset but obviously I was not going to be able to honour his request of looking through classified footage. However, I did offer to meet with them both later to see if we could resolve the issue. He agreed and got up to leave. I had begun to actually feel sorry for Mr. Kleenex but both Heidi and I both noticed that as he got up he staggered and nearly dropped his glass of Ice Tea ………which seemed to have the same smell as his breath……more sponsorship from Budweiser. We have arranged to meet at 5:00pm this afternoon so stay tuned for another exciting episode of our favorite soap opera….All My Budweiser’s………..or the Drunk and the Restless.
After our impromptu session with Mr. Kleenex, Heidi and I were planning to go ashore in St.Marteen. However, just as I was putting on my Michael Jordan’s, Mother Nature decided that I did not deserve some shore leave and sent a large black cloud to hover over the Carnival Freedom and empty its bowels upon us………………..bugger.
So, that was me putting together a rainy afternoon activity program. It fell down in torrents for a good hour and just when I was considering rounding up 2 of every animal…………..it stopped. It was 3:00pm…………too late for me to go ashore and therefore once the activities were in place I sat down to write to you all.
I spend every day thinking the same thought………….I wonder what it would be like to eat a jelly bean from Jessica Simpson’s belly button……………sorry……….it’s the other thought………….I wonder if I will be able to think about anything to write in my daily blog. I often wonder if there will be a day when …………well…………….nothing happens……………and just when you think you will have nothing to say………something happens…………it always does………..whether you find it interesting, that’s another matter, but living and working on a cruise ship is a constant source of blogging material.
You know, I forgot to tell you the guest facts and figures this week ………….sorry.
GUESTS – 3030
CHILDREN NUNDER 18 – 161
NON US AND CANADIANS – 204
TOP NON US/CANADA COUNTRY – AUSTRALIA – 78 GUESTS.
Here are some very random photos.
Nurses on board the Carnival Freedom 
The photo lab and photo staff
The shore excursion team on board the Carnival Freedom
Two of our security staff
Here are today’s letters and drawings from the In Their Own Words Section
Time to answer some of the questions you have asked in today’s Q and A session. Today’s selection is from the blog called Pole Dancing.
GREG BALDASARRI………………Any photos of me doing the Polka have since been burned and the photographers who took them have begun mysteriously disappearing. You asked how many hats a CD wears. Well, honestly, that is up to the CD in question……..me………..well I think the answer is too many. However, all of them are as important as the next and having Heidi with me helps share the hat wearing burden. Thanks again for your posting and as always your kind words of support. Cheers.
NICO R………….Good to hear from you mate. You asked about the situation with the Carnival Splendor’s Godmother. The honest answer is I have no idea. We failed to get my two choices of Catherine Zeta Jones and Angelina Jolie and at this point I think we should just put George Hamilton in a Roberto Cavalli dress and have him chuck a bottle of Asti Spumante at the ship. However, great minds are at work I am sure to capture the best lady for the job and PA 007 is keeping their nose to the ground and I am sure will advise me once a choice is made so we can break the news here first. Thanks mate and thanks for reading the blog as often as you do.
HOST MACH……………..It was with great excitement that I read your posting telling me that you have a Cruise Critic group forming for the 2009 Bloggers Cruise. As you said, it will be a terrific way to celebrate the rebirth of The Big Easy and to meet new friends. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help and if you have any questions. Cheers and a big hello to all my friends at Cruise Critic.
CHERYL……………….Congratulations on choosing Costa for your next cruise and the Mediterranea is a most beautiful vessel. You asked what to expect. Well, you can expect loads of Italian flair especially from the dining room because the food is amazing. The entertainment is superb and the “animators” who are the Costa entertainment staff will make sure you have the most fantastic time……………….watch out for the weekly Toga party…………..its world famous.
You asked what ship I will be on in 2009…………I am not sure at this time but hopefully I will soon and will let everyone know. Meanwhile have a great cruise and please let us know all about your Costa experience when you get back. Ciao.
KICIASKI…………………Hello George and Linda. I still have no news on the Dream but you are right in saying that as it is an October delivery and it will not stay in Europe for long. I have PA 007 working on this project as I know many of you want to book so hang in there and I will let you all know. As for the Carnival Splendor we should have an idea on when the naming ceremony is very soon. I can tell you it will be in Dover U.K. and very soon I will be able to tell you more. As for me doing the Polka again……….not while I have breath in my body…………….I looked ridiculous…………..it’s great music but dancing and me just do not get along. See you soon and our best to you both.
KATHY KROLL………….I passed on your website to Kerry in the office. I am sure she will enjoy reading it. Cheers.
LONGING 2 CRUISE…………Thanks for the link on European Immigration. I have never doubted the seriousness of the job these ladies and gents do but as you said it would be so much better for everyone if they could do this in a civilized manner. Marcus Anthony is indeed still performing for our guests and remains a firm favorite with our guests. Thanks for writing again and please keep reading the blog thingy.
BIG ED…………..I tried pronouncing Mrs. Big Ed’s last name but I ended up washing the computer screen. I have a telephone conference next week with Stephanie, Roberto and top management to discuss the 2009 cruise and of course I already know that you and your “crew” will make it even more special. One thing is for certain and that is Alan is going to bend over backwards to assure that he is part of your circle and joins us next year. My best to you and Mrs. Sukiewicz.
DIVETRASH………….Did I stand on your feet during the Bloggers dance? I remember someone screaming in agony….was that you?
I am glad you are enjoying all the photos and especially glad that you appreciate, like I do, the folks behind the scenes of any job and in this case our brilliant backstage staff. Look out for more random photos and next week we will start crew interviews again. Cheers and sorry about the foot………oops.
Ok, I AM GOING TO STOP THERE. I STILL HAVE 12 PAGES OF COMMENTS FROM THIS BLOG TO ANSWER PLUS THOSE FROM THE ‘Copy That’ blog but unless I stop now this will get posted too late so look out for more tomorrow,
I am now off to my Save My Marriage Meeting………….back soon.
Well, that was interesting. In an ideal world I would like to tell you that I sat there and because of my charm and incisive outlook on life that they kissed, made up, skipped of into the sunset and lived happily ever after. …………………unfortunately………..this didn’t happen. Instead I met with the lady who seemed nice, normal and very upset at the way their hard earned vacation was going. We sat and chatted for ten minutes and eventually her husband turned up………….and…………….he was totally hammered……..I mean he could hardly walk. As he arrived I started to regret that I had decided to hold this meeting in the lobby as the sight of her husband, beer in hand bouncing of the walls of the atrium turned her into a Tasmanian Devil as she went into a whirlwind of abuse, swearing at him and trying to knock the beer from his hands……………….it was then I realized that suddenly………..I was in an episode of Cops. I separated the two and called for security to come which they immediately did. ……..and………………that was that……………we are currently trying to find a different cabin for the husband and no doubt there may be more incidents involving Mr. Bad Boy and his wife. They now have two long days to survive. We will be watching them carefully and monitoring the amount of drinking Mr. Bad Boy does.
I left feeling rather rejected. I guess I had gone into the meeting with the ridiculous notion that I could make a difference and as I sit here and write to you I am actually quite mad……………..at myself for having ideas well above my station and to be honest I am mad at Mr. Bad Boy for coming to me and asking for help………………and then wasting my time.
It’s now time for the talent show in which Heidi tells me we have a Yodeler, a Jodaler, a Yo De La…………you know, someone who goes you de yode hoo hoo and some other great singers. However there is one lady who is really not happy with me. She wanted me to lower the big screen at the show tonight and play a DVD she brought of her 11 year old winning the state Horse Jumping trials gold medal………………I tried to tell her the show was for live entertainment and when she realized I was not going to change my mind she turned away and, as she did, her parting words were …………..”you have ruined my cruise. I hope you are happy.”
So, that’s my day. I have ruined a family’s cruise and caused a marriage to go from bad to worse…………………..hope you are having a better day than me. It’s time for me to get ready for the show and, while I do, it’s time to play my happy song. This was made famous by a great comedy duo from the UK called Morcambe and Wise and the words have always meant something to me
Here they are…………….this should make me feel better.
Bring me Sunshine, in your smile,
Bring me Laughter, all the while,
In this world where we live, there should be more happiness,
So much joy you can give, to each brand new bright tomorrow,
Make me happy, through the years,
Never bring me, any tears,
Let your arms be as warm as the sun from up above,
Bring me fun, bring me sunshine, bring me love.
Bring me Sunshine, in your eyes,
Bring me rainbows, from the skies,
Life’s too short to be spent having anything but fun,
We can be so content, if we gather little sunbeams,
Be light-hearted, all day long,
Keep me singing, happy songs,
Let your arms be as warm as the sun from up above,
Bring me fun, bring me sunshine, bring me love.
Nope………….it isn’t working and I am not in the mood to host the show………………hold on…………….I have an idea
Bad boys bad boys
Watcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you
Bad boys, bad boys
Watcha gonna do, watcha gonna do when they come for youWhen you were eight and you had bad traits
You go to school and you learn the golden rule
So why are you acting like a bloody fool
If you get hot you must get cool Bad boys, bad boys. Watcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
Bad boys, bad boys. Watcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
Cops is filmed on location with the men and women of The Carnival Freedom. All suspects are considered guilty until proven guilty by their wife.
That’s better
Goodnight Your friends
John and Heidi
Filed under: Tales from the Ship
John you make a difference for all of us.You are a great friend and you are always here to hear us.
Happy Valentines day to you and Heidi!!!!!!!!!
Nanni
John,
Your marriage counselling was wonderful… Just that you took the time and effort and CARED was wonderful!!! GOD BLESS YOU! And on Valentine’s Day of all days… That you cared and that you let the wife know she mattered was very sweet! I hope Heidi adds some credit to your ‘dog house’ account for future withdrawls, as needed!!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you, to Heidi, to Magnicient and Wonderful Roberto, and to Alan!!
The Bayou Blogger’s Crew has been chatting about you and growing… We are excited, as EVERYONE IS, and I don’t know how we will make it until Feb 09, except that we have your blog everyday as a small ‘fix’ of cruising!!! And we have fellow Bayou Bloggers to chat with… We also watch the FANTASY come on go on the port cam… Yes, such lives we lead!!!
John, thank you for all you do. I assume you hear that, but it needs to be said over and over again!!! You deserve it!
Regards,
Lambie
John, first – Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Heidi. Second, don’t feel too bad about the man and his wife. You tried to help – that is all anyone can do. I think that you would feel a lot worse if you had not have tried to help out in this situation. [I don't think that even Dr. Phil could have made it better!]
hello john and heidi,
love the behind the scene photos of some of the staff. i guess that you are going to have to add marraige counsler to the long list of cruise director duties.
looking foward to coming aboard on sat. the 16th
c’ya then
john steers
Well you should be lauded for at least attempting to mediate in Mr. Bad Boy’s undisciplined, spiraling out of control, heading for disaster marriage. Your empathy for this situation is as usual quite admirable.
This guy seems he has a myriad of problems……to a level more than you would be expected or with which you have the means to assist him. Sounds like rehab may be the place for him. He can join the likes of Britney Spears and company.
Dear John, Still here and enjoying the blog!!! See you and the lovely Hiedi in April.
Marilyn
John, of all the great love stories that happen on a cruise ship you got to have that on Valentines Day. Here I was waiting to read down and see how you saved them and how they spent a great Valentines Day together. Oh well I guess I will just have to wait to see how you and Heidi spent your Valentines Day but most important your Valentines Thursday night responding to the smiling yellow stained popsicle stick.
Happy St. Valentines Day to you and Heidi and all the Bloggers. To you guys that forgot well enjoy the doghouse.
BIG ED
HI JOHN, WHAT A DAY !!!YOU ARE A GREAT PERSON TO TRY AND HELP MR. BUDWEISER OUT . HE JUST DIDN’T RESPECT YOU ENOUGH TO DO HIS PART . BUT IT WILL WORK OUT FOR HIM AFTER A LONG , LONG TIME IN YOUR FAVORITE HOUSE. ( DOG HOUSE)
AND THE OTHER LADY, JUST REMEMBER THAT AS HARD AS YOU TRY YOU JUST CAN’T PLEASE EVERYONE . BUT I AM HERE TO TELL YOU ARE GREAT PERSON AT WHAT YOU DO!!!! KEEP US POSTED ON MR. BUD. ( HEIDI ,NO SMILEY FACES TODAY ?)HAVE A GREAT NIGHT YA ‘LL!!!
TONY VANCE
Hi John and Heidi, (Counselors at Large)
Wow, what a story. I should have gone to the CD when my drunk husband followed 2 drunk ladies into their cabin. Had I known that marriage counseling was a part of the CD,s job, I would have….(just kidding)
It is great to have you guys back and I hope you are having a wonderful Valentine’s Day.
I posted a question earlier, but it probably was lost in cyber space or something. I am booked on the Blogger’s cruise (Fantasy 2009), but I had booked under the military special before you announced the dates. Can I still be included in the blogger’s events? Who do I contact to be sure to get registered for the blogger’s? Please respond and let me know.
Give my best to Heidi and let Alan know that he is still in our thoughts!
Sue
Happy Valentine’s Day John and Heidi
By the looks of your Blog, Cupid Missed the Boat!
Mr Kleenez needs AA & , therapy and security to get him thru the rest of the cruise. Mrs Horse as* is well…. enough said.
Sorry the rain came to St Maarten, we had enough of it up here in Florida, it worked its way thru the state…
What do you and Heidi do for Valentines Day. What do the European’s do? Do they go with flowers & candy like the Americans Do? Just wondering. How did you get the words to the Cops theme>? Have you been hanging around the Karaoke Bar in your spare time?
Take Care
Hugs from
The Tuckers
Arnold & Elizabeth
All Suspects are GUILTY!! That is why they are suspects!! So says Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane.
Bad boys, bad boys…..You better run like hell cause I’m coming for you!!!!
John, thanks for the COPS salute!!!!
85 days until Sheriff and Mama Coltrane open up the jail on the Glory. And remember, you never need a reservation at my graybar hotel!! Sorry, we do not have balconies. But we do have room service.
Handcuffs to all!
Rosco P. Coltrane
Sheriff Of Hazzard County, Georgia
Hi John,
You sure do have some really strange experiences!! It’s a really good thing that you have a good sense of humor.
Mr. Bad Boy brings to mind a question that came up on Cruise Critic not too long ago & I’m not sure anyone really knew the correct answer. Is there a brig on the ship? If so, does anyone ever get put there?
For sure I’ll keep on reading the blog. If, for any reason (even retirement) , you should quit blogging I would go into a horrid withdrawal.
Here’s hoping that tomorrow is better for you!
Hi John,
I forgot to ask one thing. Do you suppose you could get Marcus Anthony for the Splendor TA? I’ve got a spa cabin, you for CD, & if you could get Marcus there could be nothing more I could ask for.
Sorry you had a bad day… I hope the smiles and laughter from the other 3000 guests help remind you how much joy you and the crew bring to them. Hope tomorrow is a better day!
Well, John, God bless you. You certainly went above and beyond in the case of Mr. Keg o’ Bud. It’s apparent that no amount of intervention would have made a lick of difference here. This ‘gentleman’ was intent on ruining his relationship with his wife regardless of what occurred or who agreed to help. Remember, the Lord helps those who help themselves. Here, we see someone who not only won’t help himself but fairly well spits in an outstretched hand. Sad, very sad.
I love the idea of being able to see members of the crew, the vast majority of whom we would never otherwise get a chance to see. As you wander the ship snapping these great pictures (or is it Heidi who’s been assigned that task???) please offer my thanks to all these special folks who make our vacations so memorable.
We haven’t had a happy face stick report recently? Are you getting enough sleep or has your duty kept you awake beyond your normal hours? Somehow, I firmly believe that you don’t mind…
Keep sending blogs… you’ve addicted hundreds of thousand of people and you’re responsible to feed that addiction!!
As always, all my best to Heidi, Roberto, Stephanie and your mate, our friend Alan.
Cheers!!!
Greg
Mr. Bad Boy is living proof that ….
You Can’t Fix Stupid!!!!
But John, at least you can say you gave it a try!!
Just think of the other 3,000 passengers on this ship who love you and are having a wonderful time.
We will take care of “you ruined my cruise” on Cruise Critic or Cruisemates…if she dares!!!
Hi, John,
I just came here quickly because I wanted to ask whether you’ve ever seen a movie called “The Legend of 1900.” It actually has another name in Italian (which is apparently it’s country of origin), but I don’t remember what it is. Anyway, the star is Tim Roth who is one of my all time favorite actors, and he plays a man who is born on a cruise ship to immigrant parents who abandon him. He stays on the ship and is raised by crew, he becomes this fantastic pianist, never gets off the ship except ALMOST once when he falls in love. It just goes on and on, but I found it fascinating. So uplifting and so very sad. The ending had me bawling…but I do that watching American Idol, so you might not be so affected. The point of all this is, if you haven’t seen the movie, please do. It shows so much of the glamour of being on a ship, but also has so much human nature “stuff.” Man, I’m making it sound silly now, but it truly is a good movie, and I would think those of you who mostly live at sea would really enjoy it.
I haven’t read much of this blog…just the part about the crying drunk…I can relate, unfortunately. But I wanted to ask you about this before I forgot. Scott and I are about to leave for Artist Point…a great Disney World restaurant…for our Valentine Day (night) dinner, so I’ve got to say ‘bye now. Will finish reading the blog and (maybe) comment more later.
I really want to meet you some day. I had hoped the Splendor TA from Rome to Ft. Lauderdale might be the time, but it seems to be sold out. Is that true? If so, I guess I’ll just have to wait for the next bloggers’ cruise!
Give Heidi lots of candy and roses and caviar and champaign and smiley sticks (grin). It IS Valentine Day!
Cheers,
Myra
John, Love the crew pics, they are such a huge part of the success of Carnival, thank them for us.
As proven once again, over indulgence in the beer department, does not help the marriage. Guess you see those folks every week. Now you can throw out the “Marriage Counselor Hat.”
I’m part of that Cruise Critic Bayou Bloggers Krew, we’re fun, friendly and ready to party! Can hardly wait to see you in NOLA! Oh, and since my comment from yesterday didn’t show up, I’ll say again. I think you should NOT be the CD for Bloggers2, this will keep you from having to deal with the day-to-day job, and those other (normal) passengers. Of course, I’m hoping that you will do your usual “Bed Time Story” and other signature pieces just for us Bloggers. But not being the CD should leave you more time to party with US!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Diane from Texas
Hope you and Heidi had a real nice Valintines day
Jennifer
Dear Mr. Marriage Counselor –
It being Valentine’s Day, I can think of no better time to write you and ask for your help.
I lost my wedding ring yesterday and my wife does not care – she says it wasn’t really my wedding ring. You see, I used to take my wedding ring off when I washed the dishes and put it on top of the sash of the window over the kitchen sink. One day, she found it there and put it away for safekeeping – that was 20+ years ago and it is still safe, despite the fact that we have moved nine times.
Karen’s husband, it is a good thing that you qualified your “best woman” comment to the ship, because I am married to the best woman in the world. She doesn’t care that I lost my wedding ring, she doesn’t remember our anniversary, she doesn’t remember how long we have been married and, when asked either of these two questions, cheerful answers “I don’t know”.
Kathy and I got married in Carson City NV at the Royal Wedding Chapel by a minister wearing a Lime Green leisure suit on a Sunday morning wearing dungarees and flannel shirts that we had slept in the night before in the car because all the hotel rooms in the area were occupied by a Whistler’s Convention.
To this day, whichever one of us wakes up first on September 29th wishes the other “happy anniversary, I think”. Since we can’t remember how many years we have been married, choosing an anniversary to celebrate when we are cruising is easy – we just pick one. We actually “celebrated” our 30th anniversary (Smokefree Paradise – August 2005) before we celebrated our 25th anniversary (Carnival Liberty – January 2007).
No, what is the problem, you ask? The above is the absolute truth.
What can I do to make her love me more?
Signed
Mr.Missingthesmokefreeparadise
“as pointless as putting a snooze button on a smoke alarm.” Hee hee!! Now THAT’S a simile! And “eating jellybeans from Jessica Simpson’s bellybutton” !!!
I actually have tears in my eyes, I’m laughing so hard. John, you are a treasure!
john and heidi happy vday . hope ur day tomorrow is better and not raining also.
Hi John,
What a day you must have had. My guess is Mr. Budwiesers marriage was doomed before he came on board. He obviously doesn’t care enough about his wife to try and spend time with her in the first place. So, just feel good about that fact that you tried to help. You have a big heart and a loving soul. But this is somthing Mr. Budwieser needs to fix with his wife, himself.
Love the photos from around the ship. And recognizing some familiar faces. The staff on the Freedom is wonderful, so while I have the chance, I would like to comment on our dining steward, Martina (Posh dining). She is wonderful. She has the most bubbly personality. Her smile is infectious…. It is obvious how much she loves her job. Please tell her Hello from us. We really enjoyed her and look forward to seeing her again.
Now… go enjoy the rest of Valentines day with your beautiful wife!!!
Barb
PS…. I have found lately I can’t seem to read your blog without nibbling on RS Jelly Beans. I think I am addicted… to your blog and Jelly Beans.
Hi John & Heidi:
It was very nice of the two of you to even try and help that poor drunk. I think maybe he needs the Friends of Bill W. group before things will improve for him. You at least took the time to try and talk to him then trying to bring them together but it’s something they will have to work out for them selves. I commend the two of you for your effort.
I saw on the web cam that it was raining while you were in St. Maarten. Sorry, maybe next time the two of you can escape for a few hours!
I always enjoy the Guest Talent show and some times we have gotten quite lucky and had some very talented people to make up for those that think they have talent and don’t! The woman that asked you to play the DVD was out of her mind! I understand parents are proud of their children, but really sometimes they expect you to do anything to make them happy because they “chose” to cruise with you! She will just have to get over it! There is always one in the crowd!
I hope that you and Heidi have a wonderful two sea days!
BTW, hows that finger of yours?
Thank you for the pictures of the crew members. It’s those smiling faces that keep us coming back to Carnival!
Susan
John don’t be too hard on yourself about Mr. Kleenex. I’m sure no one forced all those drinks on him and I don’t blame his wife for being upset…..really 5 a.m…….I’d be upset too.
That lady who wanted you to play her CD is being very unreasonable as it is LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. Let her show it at home where people know her child.
Hope you and Heidi have a wonderful Valentine’s Day (and night)!
Cindy
Hi John,
I just want to say that my husband and I are really enjoying reading your blog’s everyday. This whole blog thing is new to us, but since we will be on the 2nd Bloggers Cruise in 2/09, I thought I had better familiarize myself with it. We will be with Kuki and his other cruisemates. This will be our very first Group Cruise and the more I read on the forums and on your blog, the more excited I get.
You and Heidi seem like wonderful people and we can’t wait to meet you both.
Cathy and Mike
John,
Don’t let one bad apple spoil Valentine’s Day.
It is better to have tried to help, than do nothing at all.
There’s only so much one person can do.
Stupid is what stupid does…ok..enough of that.
I wanted to let you know that the songs on the two cd set you received at your birthday party are the favorite songs of “the evil crew”. I asked everybody to send me the title of their favorite caribbean song and I received titles, first line of a song, or bits and pieces of songs. So I searched for them, downloaded them and…shhhh…put them on a cd for you. There was two many for one cd, and not enough for two full cd’s…so I did my best to fill the empty spots. I emailed the titles and artists to Lance so he could put them on the cover. Don’t lance and I make a good evil team?
All I can say is your blog just reminds me….
IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL
ps are you done with my copy and paste book?
Hi John,
I am one of the fortunate who will be cruising with you on the Blog2NOLA cruise in Feb 2009. This will be my 3rd Carnival cruise (Ive been on 5 total but the others don’t even compare) and I am so excited I can hardly wait! I’ve cruised on the Inspiration out of Tampa, and the Holiday out of New Orleans, have you been CD on either of these ships? I should also mention that I am the proud owner of 2 (count them … 2 ) Ships on a Stick! The first was for my galant effort in stuffing the most fruit in my bathing suit, (not necessarily a pretty sight, but lots of fun) and the other was for a rather embarrasing skit involving balloons and the macarana. (I’ll never see these people again was the motivation behind that one)
Love your blog! Can hardly wait till 02/09!
Be happy! T C
Hello again,
Scott and I had a great dinner at Artist Point. He had a buffalo steak and I had “crusted ahi” and both were yummy. We were going to hang out at a club, but were too full and lazy, so we’re home now and getting ready to call it a day. Just wanted to comment on the rest of the blog which I have now finished reading. Man, that Budweiser dude doesn’t have a clue what his life is gonna be like from now on. Sounds like a divorce waiting to happen. The guy probably thinks he’s having a ball. I hope his wife is enjoying the cruise without him. You certainly did your best to fix things up, but as you know, some folks just like being miserable. Steer clear, John. Go grab Heidi, give her a big huggo and swear your love forever. Then do the stick thing. You know you have to!!!
Smile…….
Myra
John,
Hate to be the one that has to say this but something very serious has just happened. A gunman has opened fire and just killed at least five people at Northern Illinois University. I am transferring to this school next semester and just ask all of my fellow bloggers to give support to those that have been killed and injured in this senseless tragedy.
Thanks all for your support,
_BigMike
John – this is my first time posting on your blog which I have been reading for the past couple of weeks.
I had the pleasure of cruising with you once before on the Carnival Liberty back in February of 2006. We were a group of 30+ friends and family cruising together. You were hilarious and I don’t think that I have to tell you that Heidi is a wonderful person. She was the cruise staff person at a number of activities that I attended……she was funny and warm and a wonderful person. She did agree with us one morning when we were in the middle of a great trivia game……..in the middle of that game, you came on the overhead system and proceeded to list all of the events for the morning and early afternoon. Now, I understand the reason that these announcements are made (some people actually don’t take the time to ready the Capers that are in their cabins to actually find out what is being offered at what time…………….), but even Heidi finally said “Get it over with now!”
I will be with the Cruise Mates Blog2NOLA cruise next February. It will be my second time on the Fantasy. My very first cruise was on this ship back in August of 1991. Now, this was the days before the internet and I had a coworker who was going on a 4 day Carnival cruise and I thought it would be great to try one. One thing you need to know about me is that at that time in my life I absolutely HATED hot and humid weather. Well, dummy me books a cruise to the Bahamas in August. I absolutely hated the cruise because of the weather! I now know much better and book my cruises at the times of the year that are more compatabile to me. But, I am giving the Fantasy a second chance next February.
It will be great to cruise with you again………and I hope this cruise turns out the way you want it to, which means I will have an absolute blast of a time.
Lisa
BTW – we will try to keep the Moose in check, but you know Kuki (btw he has a redneck nickname our the CM site now……………..)
John,
Hopefully the young man who overindulged will realize what he is doing before it is too late. My ex didn’t and that is why he is my ex.
I will be on the Freedom for the March 22 sailing, will you be the CD?
Pam
Good morning John (aka Dr. John, fixer of all things) and Heidi,
Mr. Kleenex seems like he had this little problem way before he got on the Freedom. I hope they don’t ruin the rest of the cruise for everyone else.
and, thank you Cheryl, I see I’m not the only one who wants more cruises from NY. At least I’m going on the Miracle in the fall – my first time on a Spirit-class ship. I’m meeting my friend later to give her some ship info. and get her deposit check. Wooohooo!
If I don’t get back to the blog today, have a great weekend everyone.
Much hugs,
Carol
Hello John,
I hope the magic stick was smiling for you on Thursday the 14th ……………seems only fitting on Valentines Day.
Hint about Mr. Kleenex………….best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour. Seems like Mrs. Kleenex is just about ready to throw in the towel……or something heavier at his head!
Didn’t realize that you and Carnival were now responsible for our taxi rides as well ………LOL
When did Carnival start to put stupid juice in the dispensaries on the LIDO deck? Honestly….it’s not like you guys don’t WARN us that we are at our own peril when off the ship and not on a Carnival sanctioned excursion. Must have been rookies eh?
I’m enjoying minus 46 C temperature today in Winnipeg on business and can’t wait until the FASCINATION in April. Any idea who’s the CD?
We leave April 7th for a short 4 day jaunt.
Let me know and I’ll say HI for you.
Glad to hear of the news about Alan………going to try to make the Bloggers 2 cruise but it sounds like the ship might already be full?
Any more pictures from Bloggers 1 coming on the site? Curious. I’m sure Big Ed has several thousand to share.
That’s all from the frozen north country. Try to stay out of the Dog house……….you may have to install a second floor for guests soon……….IE….Mr. Kleenex. Oh I’m bad!
Later,
B&D from Canada
Canuck Cruiser and all Bloggers,
To see pictures of the 2008 Bloggers Cruise and John’s birthday party taken by me and others just click on my name above to go to my blog. Then scroll down to the post “BLOGGERS CRUISE 2008 CARNIVAL FREEDOM” to go to the links for the photos. Enjoy.
BIG ED
John:
I’m thinking our cruise on the Freedom last May — which I thought was exciting — was downright SEDATE compared to the cruise you’ve been having since your return to the Freedom!
Great blog entry, once again!
Terri
John and Heidi,
Sorry you had so much unrest on the cruise. I guess,however, that goes along with the job. It really sounds like a mess. People need to leave their chaotic lives on the pier as the ship pulls out on embarkation day. It should be clearly evident that this problem was not just created on this cruise. They had issues before they ever left home.
The lady who wanted to show the DVD of the horse racing competitions……thank you for considering the feelings of all the others on the ship. That lounge would soon have been totally empty. As my granddaughter often says, “BORING”.
Hopefully, things will improve. I hope you were able to find a different cabin for the husband. It does not sound like that situation is going to improve!
Take care and keep those blogs coming!
Ruth
John and Heidi,
It is great to see that you are back to your regular blogs…keep them coming!!!
I did mail a Valentine’s Day card to the two of you, but you probably did not get it in time before you sailed last weekend; if that is the case it should be waiting for you in Miami now.
Will you be able to post a CD schedule for all Carnival ships? I am sailing on the Inspiration out of Tampa on 4/17 and would like to know who the CD is.
I guess I will be able to purchase a Carnival Inspiration scrapbook onboard if it is available, but I am still waiting on some kind of word on how I can purchase a Carnival Freedom one and the pages related to the Med cruise. I have my credit card waiting to make the purchase if you can make it happen.
Have a great weekend, but then again when you work 7 days a week all of the days run together.
Please give us an update on Mr. and Mrs. Kleenex…
Linda and the Mice, Tigger, Eeyore….etc…
John & Heidi,
After reading about your “yesterday”, all I can think of doing is to send you HUGE space/timewarp/internet thingy HUGS.
I hope you have a better day today.
Sallie
Hi John,
What a day you had! Don’t let the boogerheads get you down! People can be selfish (Ms. DVD) and unthinking (Mr. Budweiser). But I find that most people are worth your time.
Yes, that was probably me howling in pain, you only got my feet 2 or 3 times but that was quite enough thank you. But personally, I blame Susan B. I was happily ensconced in the row behind you standing next to Lance (who proved to be a fabulous dancer in Jamaica) when Sue got up there and shoved me out of the way so she could stand next to Lance. And I ended up next to you. And the rest is medical history. I’ve already told her that I’m sending my orthopedist bills to her! (Love ya, Princess Susan!)
Anyway, I’m happy to report that I have booked the Bloggers Cruise v.2.0 with Kuki’s group over at Cruisemates, (of course you know what sealed the deal, right?) And I can’t wait to be reunited with my whole Evil family!
(And ummm… about those pictures Big Ed sent you…. well, I was a feeling kind of happy and possibly a little drunk on gin… normally I’m much more reserved!)
Cheerios,
Princess Laura, the sweet and innocent (usually, I swear!)
Good Afternoon John and Heidi,
Love the pictures, please keep them coming!
In regards to your “counseling session” don’t feel too guilty or responsible for the outcome. The man probably was sorry and truly upset but unfortunately in situations like that the remorse will last until the next beer. I don’t think there was anything anybody could do to save that situation. He will see her backside as she exits. It will happen. Until he loves his wife more than the bottle there is no hope for their marriage.
You can’t push a rope and she will leave. Saw it alot when I work in the Court System. Very sad.
Now on to a good note PISTONS on a 10 game winning streak. The Heat may have lost to the Bulls but it was close and that is promising. I see where one of the new guys is really making an impact. Oh rumor has it that the Bulls are trying to trade Ben Wallace (former Piston #36) and not having a lot of luck. heh heh!! Guess that 60 Million contract is a “deal breaker”. Too bad
Take care keep smilin
Joan
divetrash,
I’m glad you didn’t try to put John’s disclaimer word “alleged” in the sentence about those pictures. I would have been forced to tell all the bloggers in here were to find those pictures on my blog. But since I already did in my comment above someplace, Oh well.
BIG ED
PS. Laura remember I was there too.
John,
Tell that guy from “Bud” there are AA meetings onboard! Tell him there’s free drinks…coffee!
It sounds like he needs a little more help than just a “talk” !! Hope he works things out with the Mrs. !
Kathy and Paul
Hi John/Heidi:
It once again proves that you never know what you’re going to read in this blog.
What a shame that you had to do this and “Mr. Bad Boy” would pull something like this off. Clearly, there are some major problems in this relationship and obviously not many good things are going to come of this.
I guess with all the hats you wear, marriage counselor would be towards the bottom of that list.
Great blog today and hope things get better quickly.
Cheer up!
David
Hi John:
Please reply – or any of you bloggers. I will be on Valor in April and we just got cabin #7406 (8B) assigned (guaranteed balcony). I know it is on Empress deck on left side, almost at the end (looking at ship’s plan). Is the ship anchor close? If anybody has an experience with this room number, please let me know…
John, Pat has some help for you. Szukiewicz is pronounced Zoo -Kev (as in KEVin)-itch. She also says since you spend so much time in the doghouse yourself and failed Mr. Bad Boy you must turn in your Marriage Counselors hat. So do you think you can still handle the remaining 14 hats you wear?
BIG ED
Ivana,
I’v been in cabins right on the end of Conquest class ships and never heard the anchors droping. I’ve been in cabins right behind the elevators on the Spirit class ships and never heard them. I always say to people the cabins are as quiet as a walk in cooler. They are nothing like a motel room were you every word said in the next room. The only noise you hear is when kids are running and yelling in the hallway. Plus the fact your on deck 7, 7 decks up from them, and your cabin is in a bit from the end I would say your will sleep like a baby.
Have a good cruise.
BIG ED
John,
Serious subject for today. You did well, my friend. In my many years of management experience, the worst were when I got trapped into these situations. As long as the people were honest with you and themselves, you could do some good by letting them talk through it. Mr. Bud was not honest with you. He wasn’t upset because his wife was mad – he was upset that he got caught. Sometimes a little tough love goes a long way, and I have been guilty of telling people to pull their head out of their respective (bums) and realize nothing is going to help until they help themselves. Yeah, so tact sometimes eludes me.
Hopefully you found a nice room with bars on it so Mr. Bud can dry out. If that doesn’t work, just have the purser change his Sail and Sign card to show him underage like they did mine by accident on BC1. Got some hilarious looks!
I think what some do not realize is that Carnival is no longer the “party barge” they were known for in the past. Carnival has changed, and the customers with it. Certainly we have always seen our share of those who will never remember their lovely cruise, but that seems to be in the minority now. And there’s nothing wrong with a party, as long as it doesn’t affect those around you. I have seen some who actually had to be escorted off the vessel at the nearest port per Captain’s orders, and agreed wholeheartedly.
By the way, John, here’s a name for your book: Dear John, My Life Before the Mast and Under the Gun. By John Heald.
Hope all is well with you and Heidi. In the words of your great Winston Churchill, “Never, Never, Never GIVE UP!”
Proud to be your friends, Rus & Nina
YES!!!!! There is a “brig” on a Carnival ship. We refer to it as JAIL for you land lubbers.
Do the crime……….I’m coming for YOU!!!
Hey John, when we gonna have a cigar?
The Sheriff
RESPONSE PLEASE
Howdy John,
There have been a few comments here about noise or lack of same in the cabins, which reminded me of a question I have. I don’t expect you will be able to answer it but I hope you can find someone who can.
My cabin 6224 on the Freedom had a vent in the door which meant that anyone talking in the corridor sounded just as loud as if the door was open. The other cabins nearby also had this “feature”. I forgot to look if the cabins on other decks also were vented. I don’t remember any of my Fantasy-class cabins having this problem, and your recent pix from the Imagination show cabin doors without vents. So my question is, do all cabins on Conquest-class have these vents? If so, am I the only one who found the corridor noise unacceptable?
Mark Twain and a Half,
It might be that 6224 is an inside cabin and is needed for flow through ventelation. Pat or I don’t recall them on our balcony cabin door.
BIG ED
John,
Sorry to hear that Mr. Kleenex and his wife were well not going to be sleeping together for a while and staying away from sharp objects. Hope you got your box from me today and once again heidi I’m really sorry to do that to you . Best from a cold new york
Kevin
Hi John,
So is Uma Thuman’s bottom going to be the Carnival Splendor Godmother?
When are we going to get some more details about any special events for the maiden/inaugural/whatever voyage(s)?
Is Ken Byrne scheduled to be on Splendor?
I am certain that you will make sure there are sufficient deck plans and Platinum gifts onboard for all.
Regards,
bill
Hi John and Heidi,
It has been forever since I have posted. I am so glad you are back to the Q & A’s part of the blogs. My daughter and I leave in 54 days for our Freedom cruise. Can you tell me how many children from the ages 15 – 17 will be on the Freedom on the April 12th sailing? I really appreciate it. Thanks for doing what you do. You are soooooooooo funny!
Cheri and Nikki
Hello John & Heide,
We we’re disappointed you had left the Freedom prior to our sailing with Kuki for the CM Turkey cruise so we are cautiously optomistic of your presence for the BLOG2NOLA we have signed up for. We elected for the Cat 11 (Cabin V34) b/c we just can’t do without a balcony. We’ll have some special Mardi Gras beads for you and Heide from a Krewe in Galveston, Texas. I (Phil) will be the one in the red footy PJ’s at the PJ party so look for us.
Cheers. Phil & Liz in Houston