Tuesday, June 10th, 2008...9:50 am
Cruising with Simon
Yesterday, while I was visiting the shipyard I did something which looked ridiculous……….I tried to drive………………a Smart Car.
Now I don’t know if you have seen these things in North America yet but here in Europe they are the must have accessory and in Italy they are all the rage. And, not just with the women but with the men as well which considering Italian men have egos the size of a Smart Elephant……………that’s surprising.
However, the First Officer Angelo had one and I couldn’t resist a drive ………so………here is the blog thingy’s first ever car review.
First things first. It is beyond small…………It is so small, in fact, that anyone over the age of seven will find their left knee is jammed behind the windscreen washer switch, causing it to spray the windscreen constantly as you drive along.
There are two seats in the back, but God has not yet designed a creature that could fit in them, and it’s pretty much the same story in the trunk, which is the size of a baby kangaroo’s pouch.
Speed…………..ummm…………it doesn’t have any………. In fact, this is the first car I’ve driven that seems to have no top speed at all. It’s like walking, only with your legs around your ears and having every person you drive past laugh and point……….. I might as well have walked around Genoa in pants and a T-shirt………….size extra small……….I looked ridiculous and with my legs in the position they were I looked as though I was doing my number two’s……………….I couldn’t wait to get back to the yard and when I did it took two strong men and a crane to get me out.
Well, I guess I need to keep dieting before I can be a Smart car driver. It’s going OK but I know once onboard the ship I will be able to control what and just as importantly, when I eat.
Someone suggested to me today that I should become a vegetarian as it will help my diet and prolong my life………………cheeky sod………….and I hardly knew him. I did think about it and after about 3 seconds I decided that short of pumping gas into the crack of my bottom there is nothing I would hate more.
Anyway, this morning I had a meeting with loads of people who spent loads of time waving their hands about wanting to be seen and heard more than the person next to them.
I have to tell you…………..I hate meetings and we seem to live in a world where they are called just for the sake of it.
Meetings are where good ideas get watered down and bad ideas are forced along because no one ever has the courage to stand up and say: “What the bloody hell are we doing here?” …………….let’s shut up talking and just do it. Anyway, that’s how I felt today and after spending 2 hours doing something that could have been done over a quick cup of tea I buggered off back to the hotel where I can work in peace and not be bothered …………… certainly not by the staff anyway. Despite the two-hour meeting in which I fell asleep twice and learnt the Italian word for someone who is trying to impress the boss – “Ruffiano” — the ship looks fantastic and I hope you enjoyed the photos and of course there will be many more to follow.
Yesterday alone there were 14 huge trucks arriving with supplies as diverse as trashcans to uniforms. The operation is continuous and the next phase is to prepare the ship for 1,200 crew to live aboard whom in turn will then prepare the ship for 3,000 guests. On the 14th, 800 of those 1,200 crew will board the vessel and begin the hard but rewarding work ready for the first function on 28 June …………….the handover ceremony.
Once onboard I will be able to give you daily updates on what is happening however sitting here in the lobby of Fawlty Towers I admit to feeling a little detached from what’s going on.
Don’t forget that while we prepare the Carnival Splendor our friends from Holland America are doing the same with their beautiful new flagship, the Eurodam. Things there seem to be going very well and I urge you to pop over to their blog which I think is brilliantly written and gives a real insight to their preparation to sail…………..the link thingy is on the right of the blog.
The comments from the various blogs are wonderful to read from that beautiful letter from Don thanking the staff of the Carnival Ecstasy for looking after them so well and making the transition into the difficult months ahead for his wife a little easier. We will be thinking of you both.
Did you see the comment about the Carnival Pride and Baltimore?……That was wonderful to read.
Bill – Zydecocruiser has reminded me that I promised a Bloggers meeting on the first Baltic cruise and more importantly…………….with food. I have not forgotten and will be making sure it is so arranged.
Please keep the comments coming and as always I remain at your service if you need anything…………just mark your comment “John, Urgent, Please Reply”
Now, before we move on lets talk about Heidi. Some of you seem to have used a mathematical formula borrowed from NASA and have calculated that if Heidi is leaving in October it must be because she has a bun in the oven……….well…….as much as I wish that were true………I promise you it is not…….if she is………..you will be the first to know.
One thing that is for certain is that as soon as Heidi gets home she is buying a dog. She had dogs while she was growing up…………….so did I ………….but mine mostly had two legs…….but that was all my mate Alan’s fault.
Anyway, Heidi wants a dog and living in the countryside as we do I think that’s actually not a bad idea. I am not sure what next year will bring for me but you can bet I will be traveling a lot and when Heidi is home alone…………I would like her to have something with razor sharp teeth looking after her.
We have been looking at web sites about dogs the past few weeks……….looking at shelters………pedigree breeders and how in parts of Korea, Spaniel on toast is what many start their day on.
However, it seems that in Western countries owning a family dog is not as popular as it used to be. If current trends continue, then at some point in 2009 more families in America will own a fish than will own a dog.
Experts suggest this is because of changing lifestyles: children prefer virtual dogs that you can take for a walk via your computer plus there are those robotic hounds from Japan that do everything a dog does except crap on your expensive carpet. While the kids seem to be happy with RoboDog the high flying career minded Mum’s and Dad’s don’t have time to look after Rex anymore but instead have bought a few fish to keep the kids happy and to show the rest of the neighborhood that they are “animal friendly.”
I wonder if they will regret this when they hear a noise in their house at 3am and instead of a huge saber toothed German shepherd all they have is a few carp. Whereas if you have a huge dog with big spiky teeth, you can roll over and go back to sleep safe in the knowledge that Bob the Burglar is running away with 300 pounds of dog hanging from his bottom.
Nevertheless, as reported on CNN yesterday between 1985 and 2007, dog ownership in America fell by 26% and now, fewer than one in five households has one.
However, as I said, I want Heidi to have a dog and providing she does not expect me to walk behind it with a poop a scoop………….I have no problems in her having one and we set about trying to find the perfect dog……….but then I had a shock………..have you seen how expensive a dog is!
Not long ago, you bought a dog for $10, taught it to sit and fed it a tin of sliced horse twice a day.
Not any more. Because now, in addition to the usual array of normal dogs, there are all sorts of Designer Chanel and Gucci things, usually with a Poodle in the mix somewhere. I don’t know why. But anyway, you can have a Cockerpoo, a Pekeapoo, a Shitzupoo, a Germanpoo, or the one that Tiger Woods was advertising on a web site a Labradoodle and is now on the top of Heidi’s dog list.
Do you have any idea how much such a thing costs? Go on, take a guess. Nope: you’re miles off because the price of what is basically a mongrel is $1,750. And I’m sorry but how can something that was discovered by accident when a Labradoor and poodle went at it like rabbits one day be the same price as a Plasma TV. I mean, it was created by two different dogs humping….there was no romance involved……Larry the Labrador didn’t go out and buy Penny the Poodle flowers and a Piaget watch before giving her the good news …..so why and how has someone decided that this cross breed is worth nearly $2,000.
Of course, it looks as cute as cute could be but in the web site photos, but then you look at photos of it from about one year on and its the size of a baby elephant. This thing won’t chew your Air Jordan’s…………………………. it swallows them whole.
$2000 is just the price to drive the dog off the forecourt. Because if you’ve spent that much on a dog, then it’s wise to get it insured, and they will insist that in addition to the collar it has a microchip inserted in its skin, so it can be tracked by satellite and the star ship Enterprise. And this, it turns out cannot be inserted by an Eddie the Electrician the chap who fixes the Television…….apparently you’ve got to get a vet, which costs another million dollars
I haven’t finished yet. You’ve also got to factor in the fact that dogs like a Labradoodle probably will bite your hand of if you give it barbecued horse for dinner. They want designer food, which is made from puffin’s ears and for main course the lightly fried scrotum of a Gazelle. Heidi also told me that it will need a special bed, special vitamins and a yacht moored in Portofino.
That’s why the fish is about to overtake the dog as the world’s number one pet, because these days running a dog is more complicated and more expensive than the Queen Mary 2. And of course when a dog dies, you can’t really flush it down the toilet.
Finally, before the day’s work starts I need to have a moan…….a really good get it off my shoulders grumpy old moan.
The subject Simon Cowell.
I have nothing personally against the man……………except for one thing. Why does he keep saying on British and American versions of “America Britain Idol Pop Factor Got Talent” ……….”You are an awful, dreadful singer and you are so bad that you wouldn’t even get a job performing on a cruise ship .”
That makes my blood boil and is an insult to the brilliant and professional entertainer’s who entertain passengers each and every week.
Have you ever been on a cruise Mr. Cowell or are you talking out of your bottom…………?
So, I challenge you to come on a cruise…………..see our shows and then let’s hear your honest comments then. I know you always give your honest opinions to performers and that is never easy to do…………but you can’t keep saying such negative things about cruise ship entertainment when the only cruise you have ever taken is one on a mega yacht with the Spice Girls.
Come and sail Simon……….I am paying…………..and if in the end you don’t like what you see then I will shut up…………..but…………….I have a feeling the next time you have some one audition who sounds like they have just swallowed a bag of razor blades………..you may have to say something else to describe how bad they are.
Bloggers…………if you agree……….let’s get the message to Mr.Cowell…….I know you will find away.
Goodnight
Your Friends
John and Heidi and Simon
56 Comments
June 10th, 2008 at 10:18 am
John
look at Groenendeal Belgian Shepherd’s…
Much pretty than a labradoodle… and more intelligent, better guard dogs and easier to train…. they grow up quicker than labradoodles too – (cost about the same though sorry. )
Had mine since 8 weeks old, he is now 3 and the best dog I have ever owned.
Enjoy
Hugs
Nikki
June 10th, 2008 at 10:38 am
Having watch ‘American Idol’ only once I can’t comment on Mr. Cowell’s comments but I don’t doubt that he made them. That being the case, I’ll attempt to find an email address for Mister Pompous Cowell. Failing that, there is a forum on the ‘American Idol’ web site where one might well pose such a question: http://www.americanidol.com/myidol/forums/forum/?fid=5
I’ve seen the Smart Car. Somehow, I can’t foresee the driver of such a vehicle making out well at all after a confrontation with a Chevy Suburban, or even a Chevy Malibu, for that matter! I suspect one must be more concerned about their wallet than their behind when it comes to such vehicles. Not for me, thank you.
Pictures, videos, information! You’ve got ‘em, we need ‘em!!!
Thanks for another great blog!!
Ciao!
GregB
June 10th, 2008 at 10:45 am
John, I think my golf cart has more room then a Smart car and almost as fast. Yes, I have a golf cart but I don’t play golf. We use it to drive around the campground. The, as you call them, caravanpark will be full next weekend. There is a NASCAR race just 15 miles away so we will have a full park this weekend.
The next time somebody says “vegetarian” to you just think of that 24 ounce porterhouse in the supper club. You wouldn’t want to give that up would you? Can you get a secound one if you still hungry like in the main dinning room?
Now as for a dog all I can say is something I once saw on a bumpersticker “HAPPYNESS IS WHEN THE KIDS MOVE OUT AND THE DOG DIES” and then the quote “FREE AT LAST, FREE AT LAST”. All I would add to it is THANK GOD I CAN CRUISE AT LAST. We took our first cruise for our 25th anniversary.
Now off to see about Simon.
BIG ED
June 10th, 2008 at 10:59 am
The top of my list of important cruise ships would have to be the m/s Tropicale. I says this because that is probably the single most important action which started the “cruise ship building boom”. Thanks to Carnival and Joe Farcus, the race had begun. Thus the era of converting ships changed to building ships and everyone needed to better the last.
June 10th, 2008 at 11:07 am
dude, have no fear, we are ON the simon thingy! ha ha ha, he will never know what hit him (in the behind!)…
and do you think all those doggie costs might be why doggie ownership had plummeted? i do have three lovely granddogs though, but of course, i do not have to walk them or pay for them, only play with them. (grin)
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
June 10th, 2008 at 11:10 am
My husband fell in love with Smart Car when we were on the Liberty in the Med 2 years ago; there is now a waiting list here in the Atlanta area for it; alright is Simon coming on the inaugural cruise to the Baltic on the Splendor? Indeed Simon needs to see one of Carnival’s tremendous shows before making any more comments about cruise ship entertainment
June 10th, 2008 at 11:10 am
Hey John
Again a great Blog, very funny.
I agree with you that Mr Coward should go on a Cruise, as the Entertainment is Spectacular!!
Where are the Photos you said you would have for us, need more Photos of this beautiful ship to look at, I’ve got to wait another 185 days till I see it in person. Will you still be aboard on the Dec 13th sailing, I hope so.
Till next time.
Have a great day
James
June 10th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Get Heidi a Standard Schnauzer.
I used to work shifts and when Liz was home alone he was a great friend to her as well as being a great guard dog. Another advantage is the breed doesnt moult.
Also if a little John or Heidi does come along thye are great with kids.
Wes
June 10th, 2008 at 11:35 am
Hello John & Heidi
Been trying to catch up on a weeks worth of blogs
The smart car,I fell in love with them last Oct before we left Civi, but I am afraid you havegot their number right.”Knees to nose” position. I also am with Heidi. I have been waiting for a dachshund since I was 13. Yes I have had several dogs but I always wanteed that doxie since I lived in Germany. The deal is that I get one when I retire so I csn train it and walk it and take full responsibility for it, and keep the “kahunas cat” out of “harms way”, I am an animal lover. if i had your farm i would adopt every stray that wandereed over the fence, so you might be getting off cheaply with that one $800.00 pedigree dog. Also those dogs are often trated like “babies” mine was till the happy stick turned blue and then the beagle suddenly found himself outside and being treated like the canine he really was,, as I look back on it It must of been a cruel blow for CB, but he had a good life he was used for stud and fathered a lot of beagle puppies for some friends dogs after he lost out to being “our baby”
As far as Simon? GO GET HIM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Take Care
Bonjourno
The Tuckers
Elizabeth & Arnold
June 10th, 2008 at 11:49 am
I love the SmartCar!!! Not only is it completely adorable, it does well in crash tests. Plus, it sits up higher than sedans, so you aren’t looking at the SUVs bumpers like you re in my sports car. Unfortunately, as you mentioned, it has no power at all.
Want to get even with Simon? Boycott that show. We do. Why should you reward his bad behavior with a cruise? If I start dissing cruise entertainment, can I get one, too?
Do they have rescue groups in Great Britain? Here there are rescue groups for breeds of dogs (not to be confused with animal shelters). People realize that the breed of dog they bought was not a good match so these groups take them over and find the right owner. Is there any greyhound racing? I know so many people who have adopted greyhounds that would have been destroyed and they all are in love with their adoptees.
Of course, personally, I would just as soon have a cat.
June 10th, 2008 at 11:56 am
John,
Once again, your blog made me laugh so hard, I spit Diet Coke on the screen. Your tirade about the cost of a dog was just too much. My employer is going to get pretty pissy soon.
Anything to help get Simon to shut-up, I’m all for.
Best to you and Heidi!
Princess Elaine, the quiet and single
June 10th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
John:
I have no doubt that even after a free cruise, Simon Cowell would still say he doesn’t like the talent of the cruise ship performers. He doesn’t like anything! (except himself, perhaps?)
Now….Smart Cars! Yes, we noticed the plethora of these little cars in Italy when we cruised with you on the Freedom in May 2007. The first time I saw one was back in 2003 in London, in front of my hotel. I took a photo of it, it was such an unusual sight! Now, we have them here, too. But they are actually hard to come by — you have to pay something like $99 to be put on a waiting list. I know this because I put the SmartCar on my short list when we were looking to purchase a new vehicle. Larry’s reaction to it was similar to yours, however, so we wound up with another company’s hybrid. I just saw one on the road, locally, last week, however, and still think they are awfully cute!
For the person that worried about how the SmartCar would fare in an accident, it was recently named the safest small car in the world, due to the steel safety cage and four airbags.
If you are thinking about getting a dog, consider a Boxer.
But I’ll stick with cats. Less trouble.
Terri
June 10th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Good day John and Heidi,
A very good place to look for a dog would be the various breed organizations…………most of them have a placement service for dogs who need to find new homes/masters because of death or relocation. The dogs are primarily adult and are trained.
My favorite breed, which I have had all my adult life is the West Highland White Terrier. About 20 to 25 pound very loving pal but has more powerful bite than your normal watch dog types. Besides these wonderful guys come from the United Kingdom.
33 days and counting to Splendor. Our Juneau days are getting very long which will also be the case when we cruise the Baltic I think.
Looked at a Smart car yesterday and would have paid money to see you just get into one LOL!! It took 2 guys and a crane to get you out but how many to get you in?
Okay I have stirred the pot enough for today. Keep up the good work.
Kersplott
June 10th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
John:
Yes, we know all about the cost of a dog.
Our “start up fee” (purchase price) for our Dakota was not bad. $350.00. But then the real fun starts. Besides the food and the shampoo and the “goodies”… there are:
1. making sure there are no more little Dakota’s running around $300.00.
2. The annual costs for a basket full of shots that cover every thing from rabies to earwax. $300.00 a year.
3. Then two of his baby teeth did not “fall out” so they had to be removed $300.00.
(I think they are stuck on $300.00.)
Then there is the $40.00 every other month to have him groomed.
Then when we travel, he must stay at the Doggie Dude Ranch for the tune of $20 per night. Since we will be spending all 7 weeks of David’s vacation this year on a cruise ship… that’s $1,000 in just doggie babysitting for one year alone.
All that for 8 pounds of PeekAPoo!! I almost forgot, he has doggie epilepsy (sp?) …so he has to be given medicine at the same time every morning.
($20.00 every 3 months for medicine.)
But let someone get within 10 ft of this house and look out. He thinks he is a Great Dane!!!
He is 5 years old now and worth every cent!!
Linda ( Mom of your friend DJ)
June 10th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
John – I was surprised by your statistics that dog ownership is down in the U.S. Pretty much everyone I know (both at work and at home) have at least 1 or more dogs. The poodles are bred with many other breeds because they do not shed their coat. The Labradoodles are supposed to be great pets because they don’t shed much (the poodle in them) and they have a good disposition (the lab in them). That would be a great choice for Heidi. There is a big push in the U.S. for people to stop buying dogs through pet shops. Not only are they ridiculously expensive, but it encourages the abuse of dogs from “puppy mills”. There are many, many animal rescue groups and shelters in the U.S. who are always looking for good home for dogs and cats. Not only do these animals deserve good homes, but the cost is substantially less (anywhere from $120-300) for the adoption fees. I don’t know if they have any animal shelters in England or not – just a thought!
June 10th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Hi John & Heidi,
Where’s the photo? I want to see you in the Smart Car? There are a couple of them in the area where I work – they have some sort of advertising on them, but I usually see one of them going by when I leave work.
Once again it’s in the high 90’s in NY, and they just issued a tornado warning for a couple of the northern suburbs. The heat wave is supposed to break tonight, but I hope we don’t have the weather problems like other parts of the country.
Instead of buying a dog, aren’t there any shelters or rescue organizations that you would go to instead of going to puppy mills? They also have purebreds, if that’s what you want, but they will neuter or spay usually for a small fee, and you might be saving a dog’s life. Don’t worry – no PETA lectures, but both of my cats were rescued – one was found at a railroad station and the other in the woods – both as babies. I would love a dog, but they’re not allowed in my building, so I have my little kitty cats. And they are both watch cats – their ears perk up whenever someone comes near the door. Better than robo-cat.
I don’t think anything will get Simon to shut up, but it’s worth a try. Unfortunately, I think he would be the type of passenger you don’t want on the ship. You know, the one who has a complaint about everything and expects you to fix it right away and get some kind of refund.
Can’t wait to see more photos of the Splendor. You and Heidi are going to the Eurodam’s ceremony, aren’t you? Does Heidi need a new outfit? And what about you? I’m sure you’ll need something new because of your diet.
Going to bring up the weather radar & see what’s going on.
Can’t wait for your next blog thingy,
Carol
June 10th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Psst! Heidi, are you getting a dog instead of having a baby? Did someone forget to mention to you that if John is away on a cruise ship and you are at home that there is NO WAY you will be with child anytime soon. Or have you decided with John you already have a child to raise? HA! No offense John! But it is a good idea for you to have a dog Heidi while John is gone. I get the feeling that it won’t be too long after the 2nd bloggers cruise that John retires from CD’ing. We will all miss him, and I am sad that I won’t get to meet you Heidi! You do deserve to retire though, after 11 years! I realize you will still be with Carnival till October, but a lot of us will miss you just the same. God Bless! Linda P.S. Hope we get to see you one last time on the Thanksgiving Splendor cruise John!
June 10th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
John; We anticipate a new family member ourselves immediately following the inaugural Splendor cruise – a Labradoodle! I’ll be sharing your post with the wife who will no doubt laugh herself silly! Nice to see “food” for us Baltic cruisers too, without that I am sure we’d just waste away to nothing. Dave
June 10th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
HI John…….As always,enjoy your stories. Yes, we have smart cars in Texas, but very difficult to get. You won’t believe what I saw in the drug store today…….”Swedish Fish”…………..I never heard of them until you mentioned that Heidi liked them. Maybe if she is a good girl I will bring some with me when we cruise with you on the Splendor in October. What do you tink??????
June 10th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Don’t you have animal shelters where you can get a homeless pets for free or cheap? They make the best pets because they are so greatful to be alive!
June 10th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
I’m for rescuing a dog as well. As a matter of fact, I’m working on getting mine right now.
Get us more photos, John!
June 10th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
I think Heidi should get a dog indeed, makes life better. I also wanted a Labradoodle really badly, but I couldn’t find one that didn’t cost as much as a Smart, so I got a Standard Poodle instead. Give me a break, I’m French anyway, I’m used to getting teased!
My Luna girl is FANTABULOUS, she’s a great guard dog, loves running and being with people. She’s decided I’m the best hairdresser especially since I switched to sensible haircuts. She’s greatly pleased with everything I say to her, nods at me with adoring eyes. She’s also great in the car, sits up straight like she’s in charge.
I’m breeding her to a poo named Voltaire in August, soon after my Splendor cruise. I could hook you up with a puppy if she lets him. He really really wants her to let him, but she’s fast. Poor Voltaire.
I can’t wait to see the Splendor, thanks for all the updates!
Annie
June 10th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
That’s great stuff. Great story today! Particularly funny because I’m no fan of dogs, and I don’t know the names of any breeds, so I refer to every dog I see as a poodle, no matter how big or small. You have confirmed my suspicions… All dogs are poodles!
June 10th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
Go to an animal shelter, they are usually less expensive and will fill your home with love, appreciation and protection.
Please consult a nutritionist for your diet. If you eat 5-6 small meals a day your metabolism will stay on an even keel and you won’t fall asleep in those bugger meetings
June 10th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Hello John and Heidi,
We always had dogs growing up, too. If you’re going to spend the money, for goodness’ sake, get a purebred, and research the breed. (I don’t count crossbreeds as purebreds. Sorry. If that’s my only prejudice, I’m not doing too badly.) If you want a good watchdog, that’s one thing. If you want a dog that is good with children, then another breed might be better. I know a family that bought Golden Retrievers because they knew they would never bite anyone. That’s true, but because they won’t bite anyone, they aren’t really good watch dogs. My mom’s house was robbed twice when she had Ben, her Golden. He probably just wagged his tail and brought the burglar a slipper. Lovable, though.
I was angry and shocked the first time I heard Simon Cowell say that someone, “sounded like a singer on a cruise ship”. I noticed that he stopped saying it when they actually had a former cruise ship singer (Jennifer Hudson) on the show. Now that she’s won an Academy Award, I doubt that he will be usuing that analogy any more. I wonder if he’s ever BEEN on a cruise ship? I bet he hasn’t. Sometimes I think he says things only because people expect him to. Who does he think he is, Dorothy Parker? When asked why she had made a famous crack about a famous actress’ acting skills, Miss Parker replied, “When people expect you to say things, you say things.”
June 10th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
A dog huh??????? Well, I have 3 mini schnauzers. They were dogs when I originally got them but now they’re my kids. Sooo sweet, very good “watch babies” too, & very very good with children.
Keep the pics of the Splendor coming. We love them.
As for Simon………………….it’s obvious he’s never cruised Carnival.
June 10th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
John, Why in the world would you want to consider having Simon on a cruise? I won’t even watch American Idol because he’s such a jerk! He definitely would be the type to complain about everything and want all kind of special attention. Ugh.
Heidi, Would you consider an Airedale Terrier? We have two females and they are a joy and a pleasure. Each weighs around 60 pounds and are powerful looking but very friendly. Whatever you get please don’t buy from a puppy mill or a pet store. Find a reputable breeder or a rescue organization. Okay, I’ll get off my soapbox.
Have a great week. Jeri and Larri
June 10th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
Yay! Finally a ” perk” for the original inaugural sailing! Bloggers party! Thanks, John. You are a man of your word!
Please check into the shuttle question for Copenhagen and Helsinki for us. Hoping they will be arranged in time for the July 13 sailing!See you soon,
jspirit
June 10th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
John,
Forget the Labradoodle, and get Heidi a Canadian Kukipoodle.
I volunteer to live with her in the English country-side, fetch her slippers and newspaper, and lay around letting her rub my belly as she wishes.
I don’t shed, and I’m more loyal than the French army. I’ll be happy to bark at the sight of any stranger, particularly if they interrupt my nap or belly rub.
And I’ll happily lick Heidi’s face any time she gives me a treat.
Regards,
Kukipoodle —- sitting and begging
CruiseMates.com
June 10th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
OK – we must be the exception to the dog rule. We have two; and yes, one is a Lasa-poo. However, we adopted this dog from a foster family. The agency receives dogs (all kinds) by various means (some are wandering the streets, some from dog pounds, and some from elderly people who can no longer take care of them.) This agency (yes, we had to fill out papers and be accepted as adoptive parents) updates all their shots, “fixes” them, house-trains them, grooms them and then places them in a foster home to see how they react to: other dogs, cats, children, being alone, etc. Oh, and if it is a pure-bred dog, they are all micro-chipped. All of this was only $165. He is the best dog we have ever had!! I did spend the extra money and had him checked out by our regular vet (just to be safe) and told her I would never, ever have another puppy! Everything is already done. We got him in March and he was 18 months old. All of this was done in an attempt to give our older (13 years old) dog (a corgie-beagle…funny looking short legged dog) a playmate. Long story short….there are other ways to get good dogs. My brother just got a beautiful Great Dane from a different agency, and he said the same thing….he would do this again in a heartbeat!
No baby….hmmmm….your time will come.
Thanks for a great post today. But, where are the pictures? We need pictures. Heidi, did you get one of John in that Smart Car?
Hugs, Lori
June 10th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
John I had to comment on this one. You may recall last year our Production Singer on the Spirit was Jason Pritchett who was a finalist on “America’s Got Talent” a show produced by Simon. On that show there’s also a “Simon” guy who while having no talent of his own takes great pleasure in mean spirited attacks. He also used the “Cruise Ship Entertainer” put-down in his critique of the performers on the show.
As a 4 year veteran of performing as “Carnival’s Ambassador of Swing” I also took great offense to this blanket smearing of so many truly talented people Since joining Carnival I’ve met and performed with so many great Singers, Comedians, Magicians, Hypnotists, Jugglers that it boggles the mind. The experience of performing on a regular basis sharpens these talents and consequently “Cruise Ship Performers” have a unique opportunity to really hone their act. These positions are coveted by literally thousands of people world wide who audition for the opportunity to perform on our beautiful ships. The acts that are lucky enough to make it to the ship are reviewed year-round; the comment cards are read thoroughly after every cruise. Believe me if you’re no good you won’t be around long. It’s very competitive.
The Production Singers are required to sing all styles of music, Broadway, Rock, Opera, Jazz, Rap you name it. I have no idea how they do it, it’s amazing. Oh, they have to dance too! I doubt any of the “Idols” could pull that off.
I’ve performed close to 400 shows on the Pride & Spirit and I can tell you I’m truly proud to be a member of the fraternity called “Cruise Ship Entertainers.”
Say hi to my buddies Jim Hanson & Floyd for me, your band on the Splendor is gonna be great! Read you every day, only blog I would, keep up the good work and good luck on the Splendor!
June 10th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Hi John/Heidi:
Great blog today.
I look forward to hearing more about you guys getting a dog. More importantly, are you going to build it a dog house and have you start thinking of a name?
Found out that my mother will be with you on the July 13th sailing and she wants a res at the supper club so when i find out the date/time, i will let you know.
Looking forward to hearing more. Hard to believe how quickly your move-on date is approaching.
Thanks for posting!
David
June 10th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
John,
I have never seen a smart car, nor did I hear about it until now. So I googled it and all I can say is wow…… They even had one lined up next to a motorcycle with the same length of the car. That is truly insane!!
That’s great news about the Pride in Baltimore! I’m about two hours from there so it’s definitely a plus! However, I also recently noticed that the Miracle will be doing a new itinerary out of NYC next year as well every other sailing. I hope to book that one for Summer 2009!
Heidi, I wish I was able to meet you before you left. I hope that we still get to hear from you after you leave in October. I wish you all the best!
John, I can so relate to having two-legged dogs growing up. So many friends know it. Too funny!! My girlfriend wants to get a dog eventually. She likes the big ones, and not the ones that look like walking hot dogs… in a bun… I’m not picky with pets. I don’t mind any type of pet/breed. But yeah, it IS ridiculously expensive!!!
I’m with you on the situation with Simon Cowell. He seriously needs to shut the &*$% up! I, like many others, can’t stand that guy. He’s truly one of those people that find fault in every itty bitty little thing! Bring him onboard and we can all take turns dissing him!
I look forward to your next blog and more photos! Have a great day!
Cheers,
Alex G.
June 10th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
Alrighty, then…so Heidi isn’t pregnant and you promise to tell us when she is.
My two cents about “the dog”…Old English Sheepdog. We’re on our third one and they are the most loveable and funniest dogs. They aren’t particularly fierce, but they are large enough (especially when you let the coat grow long) that they’re sometimes mistaken for bears and make grown men cross the street to avoid them. (Little kids know they’re harmless, though.) I also agree you might want to try a rescue group or a “shelter.” We got our dog, Mac, who died last October, from a shelter and he was one of the sweetest dogs we’ve ever had. A mixed breed terrier, he was my shadow, and was very polite to everyone…but if challenged, he could put things in the right perspective. He loved kids, but he did sort of know who to trust and who not to. I think mixed breeds are sometimes “brighter” than the more inbred “pure bloods.” We also have a cat who thinks he’s a dog and does a pretty good job “watching.”
You sound as if you’re getting a bit bored and “antsy” just waiting around for YOUR ship to be ready. Hope all goes as scheduled and you will soon be merrily on your way.
As for Simon…you know he actually apologized a couple of times on this year’s show. Pretty much had to since he was soooooo wrong about some stuff. I believe most of his snottiness is fabricated to make his persona more interesting(?) in his mind at least. Bring him on the Bloggers’ Cruise. He’d learn a thing or two.
Hugs to Heidi.
Your Pal,
Myra
June 10th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
John and Heidi,
They are often more intelligent, and usually have fewer health problems. And you will still be able to afford that plasma TV.
PLEASE don’t buy a designer dog! Go to a RSPCA shelter and rescue a nice mutt instead.
Will you promise me that you will at least go and look at a few of them before you decide?
*****
As for darling Simon, there is an old expression that I think describes him to a tee: he was weaned on a dill pickle. So fuhget-about-him. If Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Frank Sinatra all returned from the dead just to perform a special concert for him, he’d still find something to complain about.
June 10th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
Heidi & John,
Pets are great. Save a Dog! Get one at an Animal Shelter or Pet Rescue it is the best way to go. Too many people abandon their dogs when they don’t want them anymore because they have become an inconvenience. My minature schnauzer Princess I got from Schnauzer Rescue. She has her quirks but I still love her.
June 10th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
John,
I am sure that the honorable Mr. Cowell with Honor you with his presence on one of the Carnival Cruises, However, I think i know where he may have formed his opinion.
We were with you on the Freedom when Mr.Bell came to visit you back at the beginning of March, And truth be told the 2 young singers you had in your cast, well lets be nice and just say that they would not have passed the auditions for American Idol.
We were at the show the nite you had to stop the show when you had some techinical issues with the wireless mic system.
Both Cindy and I were grateful that the system went down and we were both hoping that it would give both of the singers time to relax and get it together as it appeared that they were singing songs well beyond their capabilities.
Now conversly we cruised on the Liberty a few weeks back and all we can say is ” what a show”
In any case i am sure that Mr. Cowell will soon change his tune.(no pun intended)
Looking forward to crossing the atlantic with you on the Splendor.
See you soon
Cindy n Bill
Ps. since i am donating 10.00 per pound that you loose how about some weekly updates on your progress. Its been 10 days since you began and i would like to keep track of how much money you will be having me send to your charity.. Money well spent we might add..
June 10th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Jeeeez John, the blog today was timely for me!! I had no less than THREE silly meetings today, with a lot of people who know talking and nothing about doing, telling people who already know how to do, what they should do….what a system…
SO home I come, and the blog is always a source of fun and laughter, but today you outdid yourself!! OMG the vision of John and the Smart Car!!! I think those guys I met with today must have told some engineers how to engineer it…
Except for the lovely Mondavi cab I lost while choking, I am so grateful that you promptly erased all the day’s aggravation, God Bless ya man!!
Now I am encouraged that if indeed Heidi is not yet expecting, that notwithstanding her impending retirement she may yet join us on the Bloggers cruise….
I think a debate between yourself and Simon would bring much hilarity to the Blogger cruise…and while I am on the subject of Blogger cruising, how about bringing Jimmy Buffet along to NOLA?? He has just done the Blues Festival there and is big supporter of rebuilding NOLA as I understand…My good friend Mach provided a link today to Jimmy in concert, can I post links here? I will try even though I am not too up on this stuff:
http://www.radiomargaritaville.com/listen.aspx
If I cannot post link thingys then Stephanie will fix it right? Love ya Stephanie!! :>)
John, I have two dogs, shepherd mix and husky mix, plus one cat that thinks he’s a dog….please consider a shelter before you decide, these are wonderful animals and very very serious intimidators, even though they wouldn’t hurt a fly (shhhhh) they put on quite the show…mixed breeds are often so much more stable than pure-breds.
As always….thank you from the heart for the smiles, even the choking…
Love to you and Heidi, and Stephanie!
Eva
June 10th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
John, if you invite Simon on a cruise, would you please make sure it’s not a cruise we are going on. I don’t watch the American Idol because of him.
I’ve got a dog that you can keep when we go on cruises or trips. He is 12 y/o and has arthritis in one of his legs. One of his medicines cost $225 for 90 pills, plus he has a shot once a month, plus his heartworm pills, and his yearly shots, and his thyroid pills, and his blood work,and his arthritis OTC med, and $14 a day boarding when we are out of town. All that and we can’t even claim him on our income tax. lol
He is afraid of thunder storms so I do a lot of staying at home so he won’t tear the door down trying to get in the house. He is the last of 7 dogs that we have had and he will be the LAST dog. He’s sweet, but no more.
We’ve got an 11 y/o cat, she owns the place. She is a well traveled cat. We pick her up and put her in the RV when we go. All she costs us is her food and litter. We go off for a few days, all we have to do is make sure someone comes in and gives her fresh water , food, and cleans her litter box. She can stay 3 days with no one to check on her. She doesn’t drain the pocketbook.
Now John you have promised to tell us when Heidi gets in the family way. We’re going to hold you to that promise……aren’t we fellow Krewe?
Night
Carolyn….. sulking… I still wanna see Heidi on the BC V2
June 10th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Hi John,
Good luck in your search for a 4 legged canine companion for Heidi. We are preferential towards cats however and have never had a dog. Our cats were always very lovable and low maintenance as well. Our Muffin died 3 1/2 years ago and we still talk about him every day and miss him dearly because he truly was our baby. I can’t get another one because I can’t go through the loss of another one.
Glad to hear you’re still on for a blogger’s party on the July 13 Splendor sailing. That should make up a little for missing the naming ceremony. Of course, besides food there has to be drink as well. Let us know where to sign up.
Only a few more days and you get to go to your new home on the Splendor. I know you’re both excited.
See you soon.
Linda & George
June 10th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Forget the dog – buy a horse. You’ll never have to buy fertilizer and Heidi may become oblivious to one or two of your habits.
——
As for Simon Coward, how do you know he has never been on a cruise? Perhaps he managed to catch a show on Talentless of the Seas.
He does seem to dislike cabaret shows of any kind, land or sea.
——–
As for boycotting him, I don’t really understand how I could boycott something I don’t watch nor find the least bit entertaining in the first place?
June 10th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
John,
Don’t listen to Simon Cowell, he’s just a moron. Him and Gordon Ramsey should get together and start the British A-holes club. I think they would be the only two members because they are the only two British people who truly offend people. As far as dogs go you should get Heidi a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. I used to have one and they are very cool and playful dogs and are good with people.
-BigMike, out
June 11th, 2008 at 2:27 am
Hey John,
Have the demographics for the first three Carnival Splendor cruises been released yet? Average ages, number of kids, etc. etc and so on and so forth?
Thanks,
bill
June 11th, 2008 at 3:45 am
Hi John
We are so excited to be headed your way in just over 3 weeks to board the Splendor on July 2nd. There has been so much talk about what Pre-Inaugural means, can you clarify the difference regarding what we can expect onboard in the way of any special perks or celebrations. I see that you are planning a party for the bloggers on the Baltic Cruise, any chance we can share? We are bringing those special treats you requested including the tea and digestives as well as other surprises for you and Heidi! We are also waiting for the Splendor to be added to the Supper Club Reservation link, can’t wait to experience that again…..
As for Simon, as you can see from my name I live in Tulsa and one of my son’s friends made it into the top 20 this season and she said that he is actually very nice and even kind and that his attitude is all for T.V. The winner of the show, David Cook was also living in Tulsa just before he went on the show. We must have some talent in our little town….
Take Care and Get Ready for our Arrival, We have an excited group of Bloggers coming your way on the 2nd!!!!!
June 11th, 2008 at 7:01 am
Name your dog Simon.
Or Charles.
June 11th, 2008 at 7:50 am
John,
The SMART CAR… I guess the guy who invented and designed it is the smart one!! I’m sure they have a place and the heart of some drivers… but… I can picture you and a shoehorn… and Oh, what a wonderful laugh I’m getting from that image!!!
I don’t watch Idol… I only know Simon Cruel’s reputation… If he were aboard a ship, I pray no one would give him a microphone… but he might just bring his own!!!
Lambie
June 11th, 2008 at 9:42 am
Greetings….
2 guys & a crane…..eh? Now thats a visual. We had a long hair Collie for many years & when he died the wife & i vowed never to have another. You get too attached. Now we have 2 cats… yea… i know…. what happened to the vow…? Well were animal lovers.
About the smart. They have been selling here for the past 3 years & selling very well, i might add. Only the 3 door hatchback is available. When we were in France last year (not a choice, but an obligation… our daughter lives in Paris) we noticed a 4 door version… must say not to shabby looking. With gas (petrol) here just hitting the 1.50 a litre its not a bad idea to drive something with 4 wheels which is gona give you great gas mileage.
More behind the scenes pics needed John…. Start slappin…. Pleeeeeeze
Regards to you & Mrs. H Richard… Montreal Canada
June 11th, 2008 at 10:05 am
Hey , John
CANT WAITE UNTILE THE CARNIVAL SPLENDOR EMBARKS FROM GENOA FOR HER MAIDEN VOYAGE!!!!!!!!!!
FROM YOU BIGGEST CHILD FAN IN THE ENTIRE WORLD …
JAKE S. ( ;
June 11th, 2008 at 10:38 am
Smart Cars do have a place and are easy to recycle. Just leave the window cracked, paint it red, and voila, an instant British mail box!
June 11th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Ahh a Labradoodle…My brother and sister-in-law have one of those horses!! As a puppy probably very cute. But it does grow into almost horse size. The size of a labrador with the hair of a poodle. It drinks out of the water dish and then walks around the house with water dripping everywhere. It was friendly…sometimes too friendly but a very gentle dog.
June 11th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Hi John and Heidi!!
I am playing catch up on reading the blog thingy. I have been having computer problems. Anyway loved the blog today! I feel the same when Simon makes the comment refering to a cruise ship singer. I yell at the tv each time he makes that stupid comment, drives me nuts. I know he doesn’t have a clue what he is talking about.
I have not read others comments but I have to admit I was doing the NASA math also and came to the same conclusion. Ahhhh yes we haven’t brought it up to keep you out of the doghouse but we haven’t forgotten……….(big smile).
Mary
June 11th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Heidi-I know someone who has a labradoodle. It’s not really a good guard dog unless licking someone to death would work!! They are very sweet and this one doesn’t bark very much. They are big dogs.
Smart cars are really cute, but I don’t know how safe I would feel in one. I guess that’s the trade off- they don’t go fast enough to cause much harm!! ha I’ve seen 1 in Missouri US
I don’t like Simon Crowell – he seldom says anything nice and proves he’s not a very nice person.
I’m looking forward to seeing the next pics of the Splendor! It’s great to see the ship I’ll be on in such a short time! YEAH!
June 11th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Hi John,
I don’t watch American Idol anymore, just because of Simon’s attitude. So, yes, he should go on a Carnival cruise and see the quality of entertainment, before he knocks it!
Carl has had a Chocolate Lab for 1o years and Bear became my “Baby” after we were married. I spoil him terribly, but it is because he has the most wonderful personality. He is nearly 100 pounds of unconditional love. The grandchildren can come visit and do anything to him, and he begs for more. This includes Granddaughter Bekah putting eyeshadow, lipgloss, body glitter on him and then topping it off with painting his toenails on all 4 feet!!! He loves it! LOL BUT… let Carl be out of town, and he turns into “Superdog” and won’t let anyone near me or in our house!!!
I do have to say that if you are thinking of a smaller dog. I used to raise miniature daschunds and they are wonderful small creatures. Very loving with a good disposition and easy to care for. A good people dog. And sound like a vicious creature, when an intruder comes to call!!! Not to mention that when they poo in the yard a little rain will wash it away!!!
Hello to Heidi!
Hugs too!
Princess Barb
June 11th, 2008 at 10:25 pm
John
Forget the fur fur dogs just get a good old fashion dog, Say a Manchester terrier they come in 2 sizes (I have a standard Manchester) or an English collie or an English bull dog
June 15th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
A little behind on my blogs but I would like to give a thumbs up to everyone who has suggested ADOPTING a dog as opposed to BUYING one.
As an animal shelter volunteer, I see wonderful dog after dog (and cat) being dropped off at our shelter. Last year, the shelter I volunteer at took in 50,000 animals.
Even if you have your heart set on a particular breed, there are rescue groups out there for just about every breed under the sun.
Rescued pets are the best!
June 20th, 2008 at 5:02 am
OK, better late than never! I told you things were crazy at work, so I am way behind on the blog. I have a shih tzu. He is ten years old and he is extremely devoted. Mathis is a marvelous dog, a little stubborn at times, but marvelous. You know, dogs give unconditional love. You come in from work and it may have been a really lousy day..but that little guy is waiting for you and is acting like you just made his day! Go for the dog, Heidi!
Ruth
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