I have never been much of a fan of parties. Maybe this comes from the fact that I was hardly ever invited to one and when I was…………….no bugger spoke to me. I would arrive at the party with dreams of meeting a girl ……………any girl…………. who would want to have a bit of rumpy pumpy with in the back seat of my Ford Escort ………………of course……………….reality was that I would leave with Alan………..and go for a kebab.
And so last night I attended the employee party where thousands of Carnival shoreside employees and one invited guest descended on the Carnival Splendor for a night of fun, dancing, eating and a few magnums of wine.
Now, the invitations had a dress code on them…………….because that’s the law. As I told you a few weeks ago, dress codes make me crazy. There used to be just two and that was OK.
Formal……..or casual……………..that was it. Now we have Elegant Casual, Casual Elegant, Business Casual, Casual Business, Cruise Elegant, Cruise Casual and because that’s not enough……………our employees were asked to dress “Casual Chic”…………..What in the name of all that’s holy is “Casual Chic?” I guess I was not the only one who was confused because, as I wandered around the ship last night, I saw people dressed in every possible combination. Jeans and T-shirts…………..obviously chic to them meant wearing the T-shirt that doesn’t have a huge ketchup stain on it…………to people who seeing the word chic had dressed to kill. There were long dresses, short dresses and men with tuxedos of every color and cut.
As I moved on through the ship I started no notice people in various stages of plastic surgery. There was one woman who had undergone some extraordinary eye work and clearly found it very hard to blink. The fact that she now looked like a Medusa didn’t seem to upset her. Personally I would have sued the surgeon, but what do I know? This was also America and that meant that everyone at the party has such unbelievably gleaming teeth and they flash them about like rapiers. I’ve started to get really paranoid, and tend to mumble when talking to anyone as everyone stares at your mouth, trying to get a good look.
It was obvious who was single and who was not. The single men were gathered in groups like prides of lions ready to attack. The women were also gathered together in short micro skirts realizing the more skin they showed the better their chances of meeting Mr. Right ………..or, in this case, in Miami…………Senor Righto. These were not ladies who harbor the romance novel notion that men find kindness, a good heart and a sense of humor important when looking for a spouse; they understand that what men really want is breasts like the Alps a face like Angelina Jolie’s.
I like a painting. But I will not buy one, no matter how deft the brushwork, or how well the artist captures the natural light, if the subject matter is George Hamilton’s scrotum – because I would not find it attractive. And look at animals. If I told you the dung beetle – the ugliest creature ever to walk the earth – was in danger of extinction, you’d be glad. If, on the other hand, I showed you a picture of some cute little tiger cub that was about to be chopped up by someone who wanted its bones to make his penis bigger, you’d be on the first plane to Beijing full of protest.
The party really was a wonderful place to “people watch” and also to meet so many people. Honestly, at times it was overwhelming as dozens and dozens of people came up to me and asked for photos and autographs. It seems that the blog thingy is quite popular in the Miami office as well and all night long I was hugged and kissed and groped …….. and that was the men. I signed dozens of autographs and took loads of photos and it was …… totally humbling. Seriously, though, it was a great night and I need to mention a few things about it.
Firstly, I should mention the brilliantly motivating speech made pre-show by Carnival’s President and CEO and Chairman of the Fish Have Rights Association ………….. Gerry Cahill. He spoke about how the people who worked for Carnival Cruise Lines were the people we want to welcome aboard our ships. Spirited, fun and comfortable in their own existence ……………and then he said, “The people we want onboard our ships are people like you……………people who when John Heald says I need 12 volunteers to make fools of themselves on stage………………500 people put their hands up.”
And how right he is. The people who work in reservations, operations, accounting, the switchboard, I/S and in every department are people who give 100% each and every day to make your cruise more enjoyable and they are exactly the kind of people we what to see on our ships. Anyway, Gerry’s speech was brilliant and earned him a huge round of applause accompanied by lots of cheering…….or…..this could have been because, I mentioned, he was paying for the drinks.
Gerry also thanked the crew. He mentioned how they had just disembarked 3,000 guests from a 16-day trans-Atlantic cruise. This usually would have been their night off but instead they gave their heart and soul providing brilliant service and entertainment for our friends from shore side. This morning, they awoke at 8 am ready for a full U.S. Coast Guard inspection, which will last two hours at least and as soon as that is finished embarkation will start and they will set sail on a two-day cruise to Nassau. Thanks Gerry for saying what you did……and the rapturous applause from the employees echoed our president’s sentiments……………….and mine.
Oh, by the way. Can I take a few moments to wish all the bloggers who are cruising on the Carnival Splendor today? I wish I could be with you. In particular, I want to wish bon voyage to blogger “Princess R” who is sailing with her boyfriend on their one-year anniversary. Princess R met her boyfriend Butch during the dating game event on the Carnival Freedom. They feel immediately in love and as I hosted the show…….I guess it’s my fault.
They booked this cruise thinking I would be sailing and were very disappointed to know that I would not be. They live in a tiny little town in Alaska and have traveled hundreds of miles to spend this time with me……………and they found I had buggered off. Anyway, Princess R and Butch are eating at the supper club tonight and I ordered a cake and a bottle of champagne for them……I hope they have a wonderful cruise …………. and it’s their fault that I got myself into an embarrassing situation last night as I will explain later.
As you saw we tried to beam you some live steaming video which as I understand it was not totally successful. This was probably due to the fact that the ship is full of iron and steel and the signal was not very strong. However, I hope you got to see the re-runs and my thanks to my mate Al Ernst who not only had fun with me on the video but also performed two great shows last night. Anyway……..we will get better at these videos I promise. Anyway, for the next few weeks we will be video free as once I am home I will return to the old format of blog thingies like these……..written daily…………and with a few photos.
OK, for the last time………………here is Jaime’s Dear John letter.
November 14, 2008
Dear John,
This is it! The Carnival Splendor has finally completed its entire European cruising season and trans-Atlantic crossing, and this morning we safely returned to the United States of America via the port in the lovely, yet slightly humid Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Last night we were able to celebrate the arrival in the States as well as wish a goodbye to Stephanie, our Assistant Cruise Director as she departs on her vacation with a Fiesta Caliente!
The entire night I was unable to sleep, eagerly awaiting the arrival like a child nervously awaiting the first day of school. I was tossing and turning all night. This morning we had several US Customs and Immigration officials on board, and since it was the first time the ship had visited the States, debarkation took longer than usual. I think the officials knew that I was dying to get off the ship and help boost the US economy by purchasing a variety of items in dollars.
Once debarkation finally completed, many of the entertainment staff members jumped in a taxi and headed out for a nice lunch near the pier. With my enormous grin on my face, I was able to call my friends and family from my cell phone without paying exorbitant international roaming rates. I also can remember how much I appreciate the small pleasures in life such as bottomless soda glasses, using a debit card machine at the grocery store and paying money for the brands that I have come to know and love rather than the expensive European imitations! The absolute highlight of our lunch was when Owen looked over at Lauren’s T-shirt and asked “is John Mayer the guy with the hot dogs?” We love our Columbian amigo.
All I can say is it is good to be home. I am looking forward to the change to Caribbean cruises. Thank you for letting me share with you the adventures and challenges of our last Mediterranean, Greece and Turkey cruise as well as our trans-Atlantic Journey. It has been a great deal of fun for me to share my stories and I look forward to cruising with you all soon!
All the best,
::smiles::=) Jaime
Entertainment Staff
Carnival Splendor
Thank you, Jaime…………..thank you for all you have done and congratulations on your amazing writing skills. I spoke to Jaime last night and asked her if she would consider writing a Carnival Splendor South America series of Dear John letters ………… she told me to bugger off………..actually, she said yes……………..so that’s something I know we will all look forward to. Thanks Jaime………….you are a star……….and so am I this morning…………….as by star I mean a large gaseous object……..something has really affected my bottom today.
OK, let’s have a chat.
Let’s start by talking about my travel plans.
Tomorrow (Sunday) at 6 pm, I will fly American Airlines (coach …………double bugger) to Boston, Mass. I will spend the night in yet another hotel before meeting up with the Carnival marketing team at the head offices of our great friends from Arnold ……………… who are our advertising agents, marketing gurus, life coaches, therapists and, most importantly………lunch providers. We are going to be talking about a project that involves me……I promise to tell you more about this brilliant concept soon.
Then, straight from that meeting, I will jump on a plane yet again but this time it’s one that will take me home to the bosom of my family and in particular to Heidi’s bosoms which hopefully are benefiting from her being pregnant and are now the size of ripe watermelons.
Once home, I will write each and every day………..maybe taking Sunday’s off ……. would that be OK?………….I know I have never taken a day off before but I was thinking maybe I could ask your kind permission to make Sunday’s a day of rest……………let me know.
And so I will remain home blogging every day (except Sundays) and then in January ……….well……………what can I tell you?
Well, let’s start by saying that I had a very productive meeting with Ruben Rodriguez, our executive vice president of marketing and guest experience where I committed my future to Carnival Cruise Lines. I have to tell you that I was considering leaving and moving across to another Carnival sister company based out of the UK.
But, as wonderful as P&O, Cunard and Princess are………….my heart belongs to Carnival. I have grown up here and, through the years, they have allowed me to become a person I never thought I could be. I am going to help our sister companies as much as I can and in as many ways as I can…….including regular ship visits and blogs about our corporation’s new vessels, etc.
So, that’s the first piece of news……………………..I am here to stay.
Then………….in what capacity? Well, Carnival has been wonderful and is allowing me so much flexibility. I was offered a role where I would remain Carnival’s senior cruise director but also extend my position to become something they are calling “brand ambassador”………and I am so moved by this offer. To become an ambassador for this company is the highest honor anyone could ever want……………except being brand ambassador for Victoria’s Secret……and it is something that I am massively humbled by.
What would this involve? Well, it would involve special cruises, lots of appearances at brand events, and assisting Carnival as we continue our new and exciting marketing straterdy………startderdy………..stragerady……………thingy………………….and lots of other areas, as well. It would also involve some time on the ships, as well. This would include Bloggers Cruises (we’re looking at two next year) as well as traveling the fleet writing about our current and new itineraries and our brilliant and modern fleet.
However…………is that enough time onboard?………will I miss being a CD …………. and …….. most importantly…………….what about Heidi and the Thingy?
I also have to tell you that as much as I love my job and as much as I have enjoyed these past few weeks I have hated being away from Heidi and the family……………and I have hated the evenings when I have sat here in my hotel room with only CNBC for company.
Yes, my friends the Bentleys and the Blums have looked after me but there have been too many nights when I have felt like crap. You see, even when I am not with Heidi on the ship I am never alone. Now this doesn’t mean I have lots of Latvian women for company every night but there is always something going on. the phone rings, there are shows to perform and screaming guests to listen to ………………..here at the Incontinent ……………… sorry………………Intercontinental hotel…………….there is just me……………..the TV ……….. and Mrs. Suarez the maid who knocks on the door even if I have the Bugger Off and Do Not Disturb sign hanging on the door.
So, I have a lot of thinking to do. I obviously have to be home for April and May ………. but for the rest of next year I have to talk to Heidi about “what’s next.”
I am thinking that maybe we can find a happy medium. I am thinking about coming back to a ship……………no……………..I have no idea which one……………..and work as CD until April. I am sure the new marketing thingies can be done while I am onboard and I can disembark as required for “special events.”
Then after the baby is born………..well maybe Heidi can fly and stay with me here on land for a few weeks at a time. Obviously, I have a lot to think about and a lot to talk about with Heidi.
You know, I have not even spoken to Carnival management about this yet………………… and that I hope shows you how important everyone who reads the blog is to me.
Carnival is the best company in the world and whatever happens I am theirs………….for life. They have only my best interests at heart and for that I am forever grateful. I just need a few days to figure out what to do.
You know……last night……….I went on stage for the first time in a month …and I realized just how much I have missed it……and deep down I realize that it’s where I belong.
Anyway, I will let you know what we decide to do and hopefully the answer will be a mixture of all of the above………….but one more time before I go I must say thank you to everyone at Carnival for allowing me to continue to grow and to continue to work for the World’s Most Popular Cruise Line………..and that means I get to keep writing these blogs…………each and every day………….except Sundays…………..allegedly.
As I mentioned, I spent last night taking photos and signing autographs on all sorts of bits of paper as the Carnival employees treated me like I was famous. ……………….I put it down to free drinks Anyway, it was towards the end of the night as I stood in the lobby watching our interactive performers G-Force perform that the embarrassing situation I referred to earlier happened. I was just about to take a photo with Beatrix who is one of Carnival’s friendly phone operators when a voice next to me said “Do you think I could have your signature?” “Sure,” I replied, with a huge grin. So, snatching up the paper he was presenting and while still having my photo taken and talking to loads of people and shaking hands I wrote: “Thanks for all your hard work and hope you enjoy reading the blog thingy “ It was as I handed the paper back I noticed that the person I was giving it to was, in fact Beverly, the supper club hostess, who was presenting me with the check for the champagne I had ordered for Princess R and Butch’s anniversary ………….she looked at me as though I was totally and utterly bonkers…………………….bugger.
Goodnight
Your Friend
John
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
I was wondering if you ever get any time off. By my reckoning, you have not had a day off since before the Splendor arrived. I think you deserve any and all the time off you get. And that includes taking Sundays off… even if we will be in withdrawal and will pounce on every word when you return on Monday. Enjoy your time at home.
Cheers!
Derek
Hi John, I have a suggestion about what you can do in the future. Maybe occasionally you could visit ships like the fly on entertainers do. Now I don’t mean do it all the time. I know they have a hard job. I don’t know how they do it. But maybe a couple of times a month you could visit a ship and do a show. We would love to see you anytime, anywhere. We would love it.
Jo
Dear John:
First you can take Saturday and Sunday’s. Please John!! We are with you 100% and we will take whatever you can give us just don’t stop writing. That’s scary!! When you start talking about future I think I ‘ll speak for the rest of us when I say that our worst fear is losing touch with you friend. About your future ahhh I don’t think I want to be in your shoes. I understand how you must be feeling. You are great in what you do, it is your life. Last night when I saw you at the stage I also thought about not having you as a CD ever again. I remember how we felt and how we laugh when we are with you. I want to laugh that way again. I would love that but I want you to be happy and knowing you…. I don’t know how long you can be away from Heidi and the baby. That’s for real and there is no greater love. No job.
I’m glad you are staying with Carnival. You are Carnival. I always knew you would be an ambassador. That’s perfect. I hope tomorrow goes quickly so you can go home again and into your wife arms.
Miss you and I hope that your work brings you (and my friends) to this island sometime next year.
A big hugo
Nanni
Hey John,
Congrats on the Brand Ambassador title! It’s about time that Carnival chose you from the best of the best to lead the Carnival name into the future. It would be a shame for you to give up being a CD. I think you should be assigned to a ship and then be able to do it all..including be there for your family.
My vote for the blogs would be Mon thru Fri and the 2 days off. No one should have to work 6 days a week!!!
Thanks for all you do for us crazy cruisers.
Donna D.
John, I hope Heidi does not read this post and I beg you DON’T call her bosoms watermelons or you will be writing your blog from the doghouse permanently.
I know how much you wanted to be on a ship on that side of the pond to be near home, Heidi and the Desk Thingy. Once the baby is a few months old Heidi will be able to be with your more on this side and on different ships. So it wont be that bad. Just think of all the babysitters you will have everytime your on a ship. Even Pat and I will take our turn so you can go ashore for a day in port.
We know whatever Heidi and you decided it will be what is right for your family and all of us that consider you family.
BIG ED
Hello Mr. Celebrity,
Great blog today and I hope your wrist isn’t too sore from signing all those autographs
I’m happy that you are staying loyal to CCL and I know you have a lot on your plate trying to figure out what’s ahead for you.
I’m happy you are heading home soon and look forward to hearing more as you go back across the pond.
Thanks for posting and take care!
Hi Heidi and Desk.
Have fun.
David
We are excited to have the Splendor in the US!!! She is picking up momentum in new bookings!
Too bad there was never any rumpy pumpy in the back of the Escort!!
RichTucker
http://cruisesource.us
Hey John,
Great thingy tonight, and I agree that you should have Sunday off.
Jan
John, I think I can speak for all of the bloggers, you can take Sundays off and enjoy your time with Heidi and the family. You have earned every minute of it. I know you must be counting the minutes until you are home again.
We look forward to seeing the Carnival Splendor in 2 weeks. We had hoped you would be the CD. But we would lots rather know you were happy and having time with Heidi and that wee little one that will be kicking before too many more moons.
Countess Carolyn and Don
Hi Stephanie
And now….here is the star of the show…..
Bob Barker!!!!!….. errrrr I mean John Heald
I’m pleased and relieved you are indeed staying with Carnival…..and although I would have understood if you had decided to join P&O, Cunard or Princess I would have been somewhat saddened by the loss of a true brand champion.
Of course you definitely should take a day weekly respite from the blog thingy. A time to relax, unwind and spend those moments with the important people in your life. It would be illogical to assume that anyone could or would expect you to blog daily.
…
Congratulations on being dubbed Grand Chancellor of Carnival weekly errrr I mean Ambassador ……Will Carnival now finally spring for a company car (Aston Martin)?
The Flying Dutchman
That’s a pretty funny story about the bill for the champagne. You should take weekends off from the blog thingy when you get home–you deserve it but I doubt you would know what to do with yourself.
Well just a couple more days and you will be on your way home to Heidi and baby. I know you are both excited about that.
What a party on the Splendor and I think that is great Carnival let all the employees see and enjoy the ship. Nice work Gerry.
It was funny to see what the American crew wanted to do when they got off the ship yesterday by Jaime’s letter. All this excitement about the ship only makes it that much harder to wait until it is our turn on Friday…:-)
Sweet dreams…
John,
Feel free to take Sunday’s off. I think we all need a day off once and a while. I can honestly say I understand what you mean about being on board a ship. there is always someone around to keep you company, an dyou never fell alone. I hope you can continue to work aboard the ship. I think you belong there, But I am just being jealous, you do need to think about your wife and Desk too. I am sure that what ever you decided to do will be the right thing.
I look forward to reading more on the blog.
Capt Bill
P.S. seeing as you will have some time at home maybe you should look into joining the lodge with your dad.
All I can say is that since becoming a blogger just a few weeks ago, thank you for being YOU and never change your personality. Brand Ambassador…what a great position…. Now that thingy is really on the horizon, I can’t wait until you post your first blog, post cruise, with a baby in tow! Then you will be “suggesting” to Carnival that they need to redesign some of their balcony units. Oh well… have some great time off. Hug Heidi. No breast comments. Buy her a cute preggers top from a US company such as JC-penne…We’ll miss you on Sundays but everyone is entitled to day(s) of rest!
Hi John, I agree you should have Sat. and Sun. off to enjoy with Heidi and the wee one when he/she comes. You are the best.
Hi Heidi. Jamie has done a fantastic job. Can’t wait to read more from her.
Jennifer
Glad you will be going home to Heidi and wee little one. You are our Ambassador, that is for sure. Yes, of cause take Sunday’s off, even Saturday if you want to, just don’t ever stop blogging, no matter what the future holds for you. We would all miss you too much, my friend! I know how much you miss Heidi, it’s hard being away from family. Do what you have to do, to make your life complete, that is all that really matters in the end! God Bless you and your family! We love you! Your friends, Linda & Mike
Congratulation on being named Brand Ambassador!
Take Sundays off!
Congratulations on picking the most important thing in your life to be your priority- your family. I think you’ll make a great father. Four or five days a week of your very entertaining blogs should be enough (200+per annum ??) to satisfy all but the most selfish of your fans.Thanks for the fun –you enjoy your life. I’ll be following and enjoying.
Hi John! As others have mentioned, your friends here will support you in whatever decision you and Heidi make regarding your future plans. It’s certainly a decision that needs considerable thought and discussion. However, call me selfish, but I’m thrilled that you’ve decided to stay with Carnival. Had you decided to “jump ship” I wouldn’t have been surprised, nor could I blame you, but more and more, you are becoming the face and persona of Carnival…and that’s a very good thing!
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get even the replays of your visit to the Splendor to run right. It just kept breaking up and never did load completely. But I was able to watch the Splendor sail from Ft. Lauderdale tonite on the webcam along the inlet there, and it was a sight to behold!
As always, our best to you, Heidi and Desk! Take care and have a safe trip home.
John,
Please do take the whole weekend off, every weekend! You have all of us sooooo spoiled and we anxiously await your written word or video blogs. Let’s face it. . . WE ARE HOOKED ON YOU!! But, we will slowly get used to the idea that you won’t be writing on the weekends, and will be even more excited to pop open the computer on Monday mornings and read what exploits you have had over the weekend. Like I said months ago, I wish my computer would automatically open up to your blog every time I sign on—I check it so many times a day waiting for your blogs.
Congrats on your new title! If Carnival had picked anyone else to be their Brand Ambassador, there would have been a HUGE revolt from all of us! You are the best their is, and no one could even think about doing a better job than you! We will all miss not having you as our CD on our future trips, but I am so glad that so many of us have had the experience of sailing and laughing with you. You are one of a kind! Thank you!!!
By the way, I think the title should be GRAND AMBASSADOR, NOT BRAND.
Thanks,
Sheryl
I am happy that you’ve decided to stay with Carnival. Am also glad to see you are now calling Heidi’s “belly/baby bump” (I hate that phrase), the baby… John, It was so nice finally getting to meet you in Philly, acouple of weeks ago…it really was. Now I see why everybody loves you!!
I was sorry not to get to meet Heidi too. I got to meet Stephanie though!
I have a question, yay, finally. So *** JOHN PLEASE REPLY!!!***
Ted and I will, of course be on the bloggers cruise in Feb. with all of you, but DO WE NEED PASSPORTS?
I haaave heard different things from different people. Our Carnival PVP says that we don’t. If we do need them, then Ted and I will have to get working on getting them soon, as we have never had one.Thanks
Sue M(suefromnarrowsburg)
*******JOHN PLEASE REPLY****************
Take those Saturdays and Sundays off! Think how easy it will be to write on Mondays with two whole days of life events in your pen.
We leave this morning for Fort Lauderdale and the Splendor four-day sailing tomorrow. There are 97 of us communicating about a meet and greet on Thursday evening, which you kindly facilitated. Thanks for you hard work and for adding a personal touch to all that you do.
By the way, you might start with comparing Heidi’s bosoms to ripe peaches or the like at first…hold off the the watermelon comment until a little later…haha!
Good morning from Nassau and the Carnival Splendor!!
John, you lied. You said this was a lovely ship but you never told me it was STUNNING!!! This vessel is absolutely amazing!! The details are amazing, just amazing!! Goose is a wonderful guy. We chatted for over an hour last night about the ship, the Blog, passengers and you. In case you didn’t know he’s a HUGE John Heald fan as am I.
I’ll spend a few hours on shore today before I come back on board to spend more hours exploring and taking pictures. John, I LOVE this ship!!! Joe Farcus did a brilliant job, just BRILLIANT!!
Please tell Heidi and Desk I wish them the best and tell the wonderful Stephanie she works too hard.
Ciao for now!!!
Host Mach
hi john
enjoy the watermelons while you can.
we the thingy comes, he or she will hog up all the FUN.
HINT FOR UNCLE GARY,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
what to get the JOHN for CHRISTMAS,,,,,
a sweet new D B 9
from cigar city
tom & jane
Hi John:
Truth be told, the live aspect on the videos is not a big deal. The reruns are fine. The blog type activity does not depend on live, simultaneous view and commentary does it?
The Dear John letters from =) Jaimie are great, she has the knack of putting the reader into the locale. Looking forward to the cruise around the Horn, if you can’t go, reading and pictures is the next best?
Well not long now before your family is together again, safe journey. Interesting combination, long contracts, long vacations. Heidi will say, “Welcome Home!”
Cheers Mate
Hey Mr. Rock Star,
I was hoping to get a chance to meet up with you in Boston. It doesn’t look like that’s going to happen. Well, hopefully some other time in the future.
Jeff
John,
I was very happy to read that the top Management for Carnival has finally realized what we the cruisers and bloggers have know for years…….
John Heald represents EVERYTHING that Carnival stands for.
John, you have been able to serve your cruisers and your Company with EXCELLENCE for all these many years.
Look at the blog thingy.
over 3.3 million reads in less than 3 years.. what does that say for you?
Bloggers cruises that have grown from 1 a year to now 2/ maybe 3 a year and each one of them booked fully.
Carnival has realized that You are one of the reasons why there are so many gold and plat cruisers spending time on Carnival ships.
However with Fame you do sometimes have to give up what made you what you are in order for you and the company to grow.
As far as you being named “Carnival Brand Ambassador” .. CONGRADULATIONS.. But I do have a question??
You and all the SUPER folks that run the ships the reservations and all the other behind the sceens jobs that go into providing all of US the EXCELLENT vacations we take regardless of the ship, are ALL BRAND AMBASSADORS.
Lets face it Cindy and I along with the millions of other Carnival cruisers can cruise on any line we choose, but because of ALL of the folks that run the company and provide us with all the fun and excitement that we experience on the Carnival ships is the reason why we return cruise after cruise. Yes the other lines are nice and i would never put anyof them down ( unless they have an X on their smoke stacks) but Carnival is the leader.(in our opinion, and since its my credit card I
guess it counts lol)
I have said it before and will continue to say it over and over again to anyone who will listen ( and to some who wont) Carnival Cruises are the best by far of any line.
And on a personal note YOU yes YOU John are the reason so many of us return.
You understand better than anyone what the cruisers, be they first timers or seasoned cruise veterans, are looking for and you always work hard to provide that experience for all.
Yes we will all miss you being a Full Time CD, and personally Cindy and I will miss not having you on board with us, you have set the benchmark for all cruise directors and the thing you should be proud of is that fact that all the other CD’s have risen to the occasion and like you live and breath customer satisfaction and fun.
They say that immiatation is the truest form of flattery ,well sir there are 23 others out there right now on various ships doing just that.
As far as this “day off thingy” is concerned…lol you have more than earned it. ENJOY.. Yes we will all go thru some WITHDRAW but we will survive and carry on.
I know that you have a long flight back home on monday but remember what will be waiting for you when you get there.(so dont get on the plane lol )
sorry to be so long winded today folks but when it comes to Brand Carnival i will always get on my soap box.
Again my friend congradulations on your new position. think of it this way..
You will now be performing on a much larger stage.. the one which will influence Millions of folks to cruise Carnival.
Be safe
Semper Fi
ps. be very careful with the WATERMELLON comments in front of Heidi.You may wind up spitting seeds for a long time lol
Dear John
I think you earn to have sunday’s off i am new at this web site but i love reading your blog thingy’s me and my wife and daughter are taking a cruise on the triumph dec 7th for our annviersery thingy haha and i am glad you are staying with carnival maybe one of these time’s my family will get to meet you and steph i hope she does not mind me calling her steph as of this is just one of the many cruises we will be taking with carnival.
have a great day
Denver Hartman
&
family
Good morning John (a day late :O)
I think that you deserve more than a day off a week but if Sunday is all you want go for it!! Everyone else who is working, usually, has one day off why should you be different? You’ve earned it in a BIG way!I can’t imagine you not having a day off to take at least Sunday to spend doing whatever you and Heidi want to do (or not do). You have touched so many lives with your humor, honesty and love of life that it would be a crime for you to drive yourself in the ground. Go for it with no apology to anyone. Give Heidi and the Thingy a hug and take care!
GO PISTONS and hopefully we will see you in Dec 09
Joan
dude! i wanted to thank you for the blog. not this one in particular, but the blog in totality. i have met so many nice people and have had so much fun.
friday we shall board the splendor and meet linda and mike. then in january we will board the valor and again meet up with linda and mike, but this time our canadian friends paul and marilou as well.
and big ed’s evil krewe has been lovely.
so many nice people. thanks dude. now go see your heidi!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
John Heald – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. Sounds like someone who needs a respectible car, Mr. Cahill. Might I suggest the Aston Martin DB9, black in colour, with proper right hand drive. Registration # CarnivalQ.
Congratulations on your new role. I knew that Carnival would find a way to retain you superb talents to the benefit of the organization. Sadly, we will miss you on the next Blogger’s cruise, but maybe, just maybe the Mrs & I can make the next one (no promises).
As for the possibility of your taking your talents to another Carnival line, I can only think of one line worthy of your talents – Cunard.
Enjoy your visit home and, we pray, begin the diet that you have tried so hard to work on this year. Now that you have a progeny coming, you have to be concerned about being around for the pivotal times in Thingy’s life – his/her first steps, his/her first athletic endeavours, his/her first heartbreak by the opposite gender. There are many things for you to look forward to and we who have children want you to enjoy them as much as we have.
Your friends,
Jon & Kathy
John, Of course you should take Sunday off – and eveh Saturday if you wish. We readers will survive this -barely. Fantastic new title and well deserved. Lary and I leave for the Splendor tomorrow morning for the four day cruise. We wish you could be there but are happy that you get to go home at last. Have a safe trip. Jeri
Hello John,
Congratulations on your new title. I know you’ll make the right decision for you and Heidi. Please take the weekends off from the blog so you two can spend some quality time together. Hopefully we’ll see you again sometime – somewhere. You’ve brought Carnival to life for a lot of people that were not previously Carnival people.
Thanks again for all you do.
Linda
John,
I forgot to say that I hope you have a safe and uneventful flight home. Say Hi to Heidi for us.
Linda and George
John
You deserve what ever time you may choose to take off; you work very hard and hope you continue your blog. Maybe you could go on tour now that you are as famous as a rock star.
John Please Reply!
The other day you said you were going to be posting videos about ticket printing and other behind the scences stuff. I was wondering when you will be posting the videos becuase I am interested at seeing some more behind the scence videos.
Thank You
If you need another assistant..I’d be glad to help
I am so happy for you and Heidi, your going home in a few days to be with her. I am sure spending all that time in a lonely hotel room for over a month can get rather grating on one’s nerves. I am happy that you are taking Sunday’s off, but you could take the whole w/e off if you want. You go non stop as it is, take this time to relax and enjoy being with your family.
I am glad the “staff party” went so well. It was fabulous that Carnival did this for their employees.
I will miss our Jaime and her tales of the ship/pax and excursions. I am glad you had a good time back in the US Jaime, but I am looking forward to your tales again when the Splendor goes to South America. That is going to be a fabulous cruise, wish I was going.
Keep smiling John, you will be home to your Heidi very soon.
John, good to read you want to get back on a ship… your blog was more fun too when you are sailing! Oops did I just say that?
John,
I was at the Carnival Holiday Party on Nov. 14. At least I think I was. As soon as I boarded the ship on deck 3 and proceeded to the elevators, I could have sworn I died and went to Victoria’s Secret Heaven!!!! I am in no way knocking it (the ship is quite stunning), but my gosh…Pink, pink, pink everywhere!!!!
Even in the Golden Restaurant, when you look up at the ceiling, I didn’t know if I was staring at 2 fried eggs pushed together or a couple of “boobies”.
Anyway, wish I could have run into you at the party. With so many people there, I tried to stay away from the crowds. Hope to see you soon.
Hi John
I am so glad to hear of your new status in CCL. You certainly deserve the title of Ambassador more than anyone I can think of.
I am also glad to hear that you will be traveling home to be with Heidi and Desk soon. I know you have missed her very much and as she has missed you also.
Please feel free to take Sundays off on the blog. You have been tremendous in all your writings, but we all understand that you must have time for your self and your family, especially when the new addition makes its arrival in the spring. After all, I don’t even talk to my natural family every day.
Give my best to Heidi and hi to Stephanie!!
Gloria aka Sue
Ok… why did I cry just now?
John…. it is because of your sincerity… and the fact that we know how much you love Carnival, your job, and most of all Heidi and Thingy/Desk/Baby.
And I was thinking about your days off….. I have worked in Retail all my life.. and for a long time, when I was a Store Manager, we took Sundays and Wednesdays OFF. It was great to have a day off in the middle of the week to recoup… and maybe you should too!
Maybe Jaime will want to pitch in once a week – she did such a fantastic time the past few weeks… or maybe have a guest writer once a week. This is YOUR time with your family… and we are not going anywhere!
BTW>bring your jacket to Boston, we are in for some COLD mornings!
Catrin
Hi John..it willtake m a while to get caught up on all your blog messages, but just had t tell you that I just had the most wonderful 28 days on the Splendor even though we just got on as you were getting off. Ikept telling everyone that I was looking forward to visiting you..what a bummer. I met all your friends. Ken in the gold pearl took very good care of us and we had conversations about you. You never mentioned Duncan, but also shared a converation about you. Were your ears ringing???? As far as the entertainment staff, they all had nothing but praise about you. We loved Kevin and Jamie. Appreciated reading her letter to you as she was one of the last people we visited with before leaving the ship. Look forward to finding out about your next adventures. Best wishes to you and Heidi and the growing thingy and good health to you all.
Take the whole weekend!
John, Please Answer
Is Ken Byrne planning on being on Carnival Splendor for the South America cruises? If not, can you tell me who the maire d’s will be?
Thanks,
bill
John, Please Answer
John and Heidi,
Glad to hear everything is going so well.
You deserve Sundays off as a day of rest.
You give too much some times.
Carnival has picked the best ever ambassador for their company. Someone who personifies all that they stand for – Fun for all.
I have traveled with you as CD 3 times and hope to see you again soon. You are the greatest.
Love Cruising Grandma
P.S. The gift for the thingy is on it’s way.
Hi John,
Sunday’s Off? By all means. You are entitled. We may go into withdrawl…. but you certainly deserve a day off…. and Heidi will love having you all to herself on Sundays that you are home.
Thank you to Jaime for the wonderful “Dear John” letters. We will look forward to the new series starting later!
Congratulations John on the new title. Very fitting for Carnivals finest, Ambassador!
Hugs!
Princess Barb
John,
Please keep on blogging as we would be lost without your daily comments. We have even adapted your phrases such as “bugger” and “rumpy pumpy” to our daily vocabulary. Our hope is to one day get to meet you in person, hopefully on a Carnival Fun Ship! That would be great.
Mike & Lori
Hi John,
Congratulations on your new position. Maybe with weekends off while back home you may be able to catch some of your beloved West Hams home games.
Hope that th especial events you will be taking part in next year will still include the Dreams inaugrual cruise which we will be on, hope to meet up with you again.
Regards.
Wes and Liz
John, congratulations on your new role. You will be the best ambassador ever! Thanks to Jaime – the updates she wrote made us feel like we were right there.
John, Please respond! I am actively involved in a national organization (FTTH Council, Fiber-To-The-Home Council, ftthcouncil.org) and we just held our 2009 conference planning session in Houston Texas. We are having our conference next year at the Hilton Americas in September. Carnival was thought of as several folks talked about the giant ball in Dallas. Question? Who do I contact at Carnival regarding participating in a prize giveawy opportunity? We typically have area businesses participate and one of our conference planning team members thought of a trip out of Galveston TX. Obviously Carnival’s name came up.
Thanks, Jim
As a blogger from the very beginning- Sat & Sun should be yours and your family’s. All the reader’s enjoy what you do and if you are to continue doing it there has to be a stop point for your sanity. So cheers to Sat & Sun as days off. Your off the ship blogs are great but I do miss them when your on a ship. That seems to be where you excel. Carnival has the right idea about you being an Ambassador- congratulations. Hope your home soon and with Heidi & the baby to be.
John,
Congratulations on your promotion!
Carnival would not be Carnival without you!
Warmest regards,
Cathy & Tom