Friday, July 17th, 2009...5:13 pm
Your Dream From On High
I have a busy day today……..the last day of this six-day cruise. Here is my schedule:
6:45am – alarm sounds to start blogging
9:00am – 10:30am – Captain and senior officers meeting
10:30 am - Photo with a family whose 12-year-old is here as part of the Make a Wish foundation
11:00am – 11:30am – Debarkation talk
11:30am – 12:00pm – Q and A
12:00pm – 1:00pm – Production team Meeting (this is with the dance captain, musical director and all the entertainment technicians to discuss the shows etc)
1:30pm – Capers and schedule planning for my first eight-day western Caribbean run
2:30pm – Newlywed game
3:30pm – Wedding renewal
5:00pm – Afternoon show
8:30pm and 10:30pm – Host show
This of course does not take into consideration the phone calls and other distractions and it also does not take into consideration the time I will spend on the toilet either.
Now, I wrote this not so that I get a huge “ahhhhh” from the thousands of readers but as an excuse as to why today’s blog may not be as …well……as thought out as usual and may instead be shorter……..and ………..well………….crap.
There are two problems today.
One…….my schedule says I should be in my underpants and writing to you by 6:45 am. However I just could not drag my saggy arse out of bed this morning and my extra 10 minutes turned into an extra hour and thus it’s now 8:05 am and me and my underpants have only just started blogging………..bugger.
Then I have been asked to attend a wedding renewal of vows. Normally I would say no to this because time does not allow. In this case though I had to say yes as the renewal is between two bloggers Ann and David Martin who have cruised with me many times and have been married 53 years.
Talking of weddings Heidi told me that when I am home next month we have two weddings to go to ……….oh deep joy. I should be spending my Saturday’s sitting in my underpants in my lazy boy watching the start of the soccer season. But oh know…..I will have to put a suit on and pretend to enjoy meeting the bride’s Aunty Betty.
I don’t like weddings also because of the cost. What with AIG spending all our savings on lap dances and Dom Bloody Perignon and the price of gas, bread, water and breathing, I’ve have had enough of wedding lists that contain nothing costing less than $1,000.
I’m only coming to your wedding because Heidi worked with you on the Carnival Destiny for a few months, so I don’t see why I should buy you a PlayStation3 or a Cartier Toaster.
And of course we will have to eat the bad food, the 5.30 pm lull, the 9.30pm lull or the 11.45 pm lull. My God, couldn’t the bride and groom (“Don’t they look lovely?”) leave just a tiny bit earlier? I can’t stay up this late any more. I’m not a student. I’ve been here in this sweaty shirt since 2 pm, talking to people I don’t know.
Then it’s time for the terrible speeches with stuttering jokes, appalling anecdotes, oblique references to a not-so-naughty stag weekend “I won’t say what happened in Barcelona, but Geoff won’t be welcome at Bar Rio for a long time to come” …………… yawn ……. what is this…………an NCL cruise?
But what I hate most about weddings……….is the dancing, which I have always found to be an unpleasant and unavoidable part of any wedding. I have hidden in the bathroom while everyone else is dancing to The Chicken Dance, Dancing Queen, New York, New York and Saving All My Love for You.
But at the last wedding we went to Heidi made me dance and after a while I guess I started to get into the groove………but something was wrong. So I put in a bit more effort, swinging my hips harder. Still no mojo, so I tried a few more exuberant steps and did something new with my arms. I swayed from side to side, clicked my fingers and winked at Heidi. I may have said “Yeah!” while pointing a sexy finger-gun at her, and firing. She looked frightened. Then I caught sight of my reflection, and reality dawned: I was dancing like someone’s Dad……….and now I am a Dad………and that’s why I don’t like weddings any more.
Time for today’s questions……here we go.
Melenie Asked:
Hi John
I am sorry to be a pest. We are leaving the day after tomorrow.
We are interested in setting up my folks for the newlywed game or marriage game as we have 3 generations celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. We are on the Triumph 7/18-7/23,
Can you help us out? You are awesome and love reading the blog and hearing about Heidi and Kye.
Take Care,
MelenieJohn Says:
Hello Melenie
I have sent your information to George Solano your CD who will be in touch with you regarding having your folks take part. I hope you all have a brilliant time and let me know about your cruise when you get home
Best wishes
JohnKim Asked:
Please Reply
Dear John,
We have a cruise booked on Carnival Valor. This will be my 6th cruise and my husband’s 8th with Carnival. We have a standard balcony booked. We have booked it with AmEx Travel being we were using our points. Or I would had booked with my PVP.The question I have since we booked with a TA how does upsells work? I have heard through Cruise Critic that if you book with a TA you most likely will not be called for an upsell; only people that book with directly with Carnival will be called. I have put a request on our reservations to be called if one is offer for a suite. Of course that depends on the price of the upsell. I called my PVP to ask, but didn’t know anything about upsells or how they work. LOL I haven’t even been graced by the upgrade fairy, let alone an upsell call…
Waiting for you answer…
Sincerely Yours,
Kim and Ken – Valor Sept. 6th, 2009John Says:
Hello Kim and Ken
Congratulations on booking your sixth Carnival cruise and just think……you are only four more away from Platinum status. While there are lots of rumors and conspiracy theories as to who gets called for an upsell the answer is that it is pretty random. We do call our past guest cruisers as much as we can to offer them any special offers but there really is no pattern. I am going to send this to someone to have them contact you to see what they can do to help. Let me know what happens and if there is anything else I can do for you.
Best wishes and have a great cruise
Many thanks
JohnMary Asked:
Dear John (please reply)
First let me say what a cutie Kye is! You and Heidi must and should be sooooooo proud of her! You must get her on the ship with you soon so you can spend some time with her.Now my question: Is the Mardi Gras ship a distinctive build as she was not built by Carnival? The reason I’m asking is that my husband and I cruised on the Mardi Gras in 1977 but have no proof ( who knew we needed to keep receipts from then ) other than some personal photos we took of the ship with us in front. The picture of the ship is from a distance so the name on the ship is not readable. The one picture taken by the ship’s photographer is in front of a mural inside the ship but is not dated or stamped with Mardi Gras. Would our pictures showing us in front of the ship be proof enough that we cruised on the Mardi Gras? We are proud to have sailed on Carnival’s first ship and would like to have it as part of our Carnival profile. How can we prove it? Thanking you in advance for checking.
Hope to sail with you again soon. We were on the Triumph with you in Nov. 1999 to celebrate my 50th birthday.
John Says:
Mary
That’s an interesting question. The Mardi Gras was built for Canadian Pacific as the Empress of Canada, and made her maiden voyage from Liverpool to Canada on 24 April 1961. In 1968 she received the latest CP funnel design, which was adapted as our now famous Carnival symbol when sold to us in February 1972.She was I guess pretty distinctive for those days although I am not sure if you would be able to tell from the photos you described. I guess the first thing to do is to ask someone if this will be allowed as proof and if therefore it can be added to your Carnival portfolio. I will of course ask someone and have them contact you regarding this. Meanwhile……..I am going to ask my mate Vance to dig out a photo or two of this grand lady and post them here.
I hope we can sail again together soon and please let me know if you need further help with this or with anything else.
Thanks for the lovely words about Kye and let’s see what we can do for you
Best wishes
JohnPeggy Asked:
John~ (Please read and consider)
Since the whole issue of drinking has come to surface… My husband has an allergy to alcohol and it’s best for him to stay away from it. Last year our first cruise was rough, they really didn’t have enough activities to keep us busy and don’t get me started on the lack of evening food choices. I know Carnival will have a much better entertainment list and the 24 hour places to eat will help. I would love to get him the soda card (juices and ice tea get old after a few days) but it is my understanding that you have to go to the bar for it. I have been told you can ask a server but that might just work his patience if he has to look around for one and then he’ll just end up at the bar anyhow. Has Carnival ever considered putting in some type of a machine where you can insert your sign and sail card and it either charges your room or reads that you have paid for the soda service? I don’t want to stop taking cruises ~ever~ and I am just hoping that we will be so busy on Carnival that alcohol won’t be an issue
Thanks John
PeggyJohn Says:
Hello Peggy
I would be talking nonsense if I didn’t admit that there aren’t one or two bar waiters across the fleet who may have not have given the same service to someone ordering a glass of Diet Coke as to someone ordering a glass of scotch. I have heard these reports and while it is a small minority of servers who have done this we are very much aware and are making sure that regardless of what you order that you get the same friendly and prompt service. The soda card is a great bargain if soda is your thing and it was interesting reading your idea which I will now send to the office. This blog continues to be a great place to share ideas and yours is an excellent one. Meanwhile I promise you that you will get the friendly service you expect and that the food, activities and fun will far exceed your last experience.
Maybe you could let me know before you sail and send my best to your husband as us non-drinkers should not be forgotten.
Best wishes to you all
JohnShawn Asked:
Please Respond John:
Hi I just wanted to let you know that you asked me to remind you that I and My Friend will be sailing the carnival Splendor on Oct 18th 2009 are booking number is 44FS20 and Our Room number is 7202… I’m wondering if my friend can get a Happy Birthday Greeting from you his Birthday is the 19 of Oct. … I know that you will not be on board with us… Just want to let you Heidi & Kye a wonderful summer and best wishes
Shawn
Chicago Heights IL.John Says:
Hello Shawn
I wish I could be with you in October and I also wish that my memory is good enough to remember your cruise will be in October………but I won’t so can I ask you to kindly copy and paste this post and send it again 10 days before you sail.It will be my pleasure to wish your friend the best of birthdays
Best wishes and don’t forget to write.
JohnMichael Asked:
Hello John, Please Respond.
John I just wanted to Thank You and all the others for the tireless work you put into this blog thingy. I do have a question for you. We are on the October 3, Grand Med sailing on the Carnival Dream. I know that when we land in Rome we will get our passports stamped. How would I go about getting it stamped in all the country’s we visit? (Yes even France.) Also do you know if they will stamp it in Monaco and at the Vatican since they are technically individual countries? Thank you for all you do not only for me but for everyone. You truly make everyone feel special and at complete ease when talking to you. May God Bless you and yours. P.S. Kye is gorgeous you can never post enough pics of her.John Says:
Hello Michael
Thanks for the kind words about the blog. I am glad that most people enjoy it. I know it maybe not everyone’s cup of tea but I do my best to make sure that it has a constant mix of fun and information.
While we will not be taking your passports onboard or require you to go through customs and immigration it is still possible to get your passport stamped in many of the ports of call. The places you will visit with the exception of Dubrovnik, Croatia, are all part of the European Union and thus have open borders. However, if you take your passport to the local post offices in Naples, Venice, Cannes and Florence or Livorno they will stamp them for you. I have not heard of anyone being able to do this though in the Vatican.You will need to take your passport ashore in Croatia as everyone needs to have their proof of citizenship with them when they proceed ashore and if you ask the inspectors they will stamp the passport for you.
I hope this helps and if you have any questions about these ports and what to do there please let me know.
Best wishes
Johnclippers8200 Asked:
Where can I submit a question for John?John Says:
Hello Clippers8200
Please just post a comment marked “John Please reply “and I will be glad to help you.
Cheers
JohnMarilee Asked:
Hi John, PLEASE REPLY!
Thank you for doing this blog! My husband is a fan, and I am new to your blog but love it. We’ve cruised with Carnival three times – on the Pride, the Spirit and most recently, the Splendor.Long story short – I had a little gold Christmas ornament that I bought when we sailed on the Pride a few years ago (it was a replica of the ship) and it disappeared after a large family Christmas party. How would I go about replacing it, since it is ship-specific?
We have little ornaments for the Spirit and Splendor, and we hope to keep adding to the collection…all we need to do is replace this one! Could you steer me in the right direction?
Your little Kye is adorable! I have a 5-year old girl who also enjoys cruising and the time goes SO fast. Enjoy every minute and every picture.
With thanks,
Marilee/ArizonaJohn Says:
Hello Marilee
I am so glad that you have decided to become blog fans and congratulations on your three Carnival cruises. The Christmas ornaments you refer to are supplied by our concession partners who run our on-board gift shops. They have an online guest inquiry service where it may be possible to order one.Here is the link thingy: customer.service@starboard.com
Please let me know if you are successful.
I thank you also for the kind words about Kye. I miss her more and more each and every day.
My best to you and all your family
JohnRalf Asked:
Hi John,
Please answer
First of all great picture of Kye,
Like to sail with you again, but me booking very early getting low airfare and/or cruise prices it might only happen by chance. I would like joining the cigar bar without the cigar but diet coke.TA Dream my next cruise and many more booked. Could Todd please at least set up a bloggers meeting during our crossing?? Reading the blog there are many on board I would like to meet.
I always had to turn in my passport at check in on a TA. Bad luck it never got lost. Carnival me not getting off the ship then…
Going on a cruise and just looking for some free drinks and complaining not getting them do not cruise! There was no more food on Captains party last time (April) not spoiling dinner and past guest reception with canapés way ahead of dining seating. Very good.
Sorry bloggers: Real football John only.
I do know you are a supporter of the Reds. Is it really true John Terry leaving the Blues? He is a grown child of Stamford Bridge.
John Says:
Hello Ralf
I truly hope that one day we will get to share a Diet Coke in the cigar bar together. The TA of your Carnival Dream will be extraordinary and will allow you so many days to experience all the new and exciting opportunities that she will bring.I know there are a lot of bloggers sailing on the TA and so I will of course do as you requested and have Todd set up a bloggers get together for you all to enjoy. There will be no reason on this TA for you to hand in your passport and as for John Terry………well Chelsea cannot afford to lose him…..come on Liverpool.
I wish I could be there with you……..and you never know …….I may be even just for a few days.
Best wishes to you and the family
JohnColette Asked:
Good Morning John,
I have been enjoying your blog, especially updates on your beautiful little girl and the Carnival Dream. I am booked on the January 30th, 2010 cruise, in one of the new Spa cabins, which I am very excited about. My best friend and I splurged (we like our own rooms) and booked rooms side by side. I do wish that the singles rate was a bit more reasonable, but it is our choice to have 2 rooms-nice to be able to come back to rest, without being disturbed and especially not to have to share a bathroom, like at home(if you know what I mean)..
I have been on 2 sailings with you previously, but you will be a first experience for my friend and I’m not giving her any advance information about you-I want her to be surprised-you are indeed a funny guy!Can you tell me what the blank space is on Deck 11, between room 11426 and room 11428? I booked the 2 spa rooms furthest back from the front of the ship because I feel the motion if I’m at the front, but can’t tell what that space is. Thanks for your help.
Also, sailed with Todd on the Liberty last year and he is “one” of my all time favorites-what a talented guy and more visible, on the ship than most. Perhaps the person who complained didn’t realize that was him singing outside the Casino-great country-western. I stopped because the music was so good and didn’t know who it was until he took his cowboy hat off. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed him-I’m sure he gets more positive feedback, than negative, anyway.
And, you, I don’t know how you manage to get everything done, that you do, but thank-you for all you do, it’s always a wonderful laugh, to come home from work to read your blog and I look forward to sailing with you again. Colette
John Says:
Hello Colette
There is no doubt that the single rates are less affordable than other rates but you have splurges on two gorgeous cabins which I know you will love……….and anytime you don’t have to share a bathroom is a good thing………..my wife will agree with that comment for sure.The space between the two cabins you are referring to is a storage locker for the stateroom stewards on deck 11. It contains their towels and linen, etc., and will not be anything for you to be concerned about. As I said, you have two gorgeous staterooms which will provide a wonderful home for you whilst on board.
Todd was the perfect choice to deliver your Carnival Dream and I will do my best to make sure you and your friend have the best vacation ever.
Thanks so much for all the kind words and if there is anything I can do for you please let me know
Best wishes to you all
JohnPurevida asked:
Dear John (PLEASE REPLY)
Hi I just wanted to tell you I have enjoyed reading your blog and have added it to my favorites. My wedding cruise / family get together is coming up soon (11-14-09) I wanted to know if you had any ideas that I could do to make it a little more special. We are getting married off shore on the 18th if all goes well. In Costa Maya by the mayor! We are playing it fast and loose and praying for good weather and actually making it to port. I would like to do something special for my family either that night or sometime during the week. My grandparents have never been on a cruise or a vacation really ever. And they are meeting the in-laws for the first time as well. We don’t have enough cabins to qualify as a group(1 short) but I would like to do a small cocktail party or somehow arrange to play some music in a lounge so we can do the first dance etc. I would really appreciate if you could give me some ideas as to how I could accomplish this. Or if you know what people have done in the past. Also my G’pa is diabetic (insulin) and was wondering what kind of options he will have for dining on the Glory? Or if I should bring him snacks. Thank you for taking the time to read all of this and doing such a great job with everyone. Take care. ChristinaJohn Says:
Hello Christina
Thanks so very much for adding the blog to your favorites (spelt correctly.) Your wedding sounds amazing and having the Mayor of Costa Maya perform the ceremony is very special indeed. You don’t need to be a group to organize a cocktail party with canapés etc. You have two choices here. I can help arrange this for you ahead of time or you can book it onboard through the formalities shop located on deck 5 forward. They have a comprehensive list of food available and we can have them served in a cabin or in one of the lounges, etc.I would suggest that you book the steakhouse (ex supper club) once during the cruise. This will be the perfect location to toast your wonderful life with your family and friends. You can book this online as well ……..the link thingy is located at the side of this blog.
As for Grandpa. Well, he will have a mini bar/fridge in the cabin to store his insulin and if you remind me a week or so before I will make sure a sharps container is also waiting in the cabin. There is always food available so no need to bring snacks. You have the 24 hour pizza and the deli is open until late as well. In between you have breakfast from 6 – 12, lunch from 12 – 3 , the Deli and other stations open from 3 – 11pm and of course 24 hours complimentary room service…………..Grandpa will be fine.
Please remind me a week or so before you sail will allow me to send you a wedding gift as well.
I remain here should you need my help.
Best wishes to you all
JohnBlogger John Commented:
Wow . . . . Such a rant! So much space taken up for something so negative. The guy was a jerk, move on – why waste the blog and our time writing about a gripe you have? If that was an attempt at humor you really missed the mark. I am sure in all your years in the industry you have seen that a thousand times. Keep this space for the upbeat, fun and exciting things on a cruise. Not a personal soapbox. We had many visitors to our site who said your description of what happens after “you” complain the sweating and whole thing, was like a “warning” never to complain to Carnival. I came to check out and was surprised they were not exaggerating. Sorry can not recommend your blog, however, Carnival is fantastic cruise companyJohn Says:
Hello John
Sorry you don’t enjoy the blog. It is a truthful and honest look at the highs and lows of being a cruise director as well as what is happening in my life. We have had 4.5 million views but as I said earlier today ………..it’s never going to be everyone’s cup of tea.My apologies to you that my “attempt at humor” was not to your liking. Each to their own. Thank you for saying that Carnival is a fantastic company…on that …….we agree.
Best wishes
John
And that’s all for today. There will be no blog on Saturday but I will be writing one for Sunday so I hope that you will join me.
Let’s pause to look at some photos of the Bob Sleigh tour on Mystic Mountain in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
So next cruise is going to be a busy one. I have some new activities to tell you about, more wonderful photos from inside your Carnival Dream and hopefully news on the famous past guest pins.
In San Juan I will be joined by the QCC team. This stands for Quality Control Committee which is made up of senior management from our HQ in Miami. They will sail overnight with us to St. Thomas to discuss with the senior management onboard ways of improving guest service and onboard revenue. I will of course be reporting on what they have to say.
It is also my first eight-day cruise to the eastern Caribbean ports of San Juan, St. Thomas, Antigua, Tortola and Nassau so I have lots of scheduling to do to make this successful.
And as it is Friday………………here is Heidi.
Another week gone and I am sure the days go quicker for Kye and I than for John.
I can’t say that Kye keeps me busy 24-7 as that would be a lie. She is such a happy baby and sleeps a lot.
Today, we went to our baby massage course again and this time the teacher (the one that would have a beard if she was a man) asked us to compare our baby with a cookie…….I opted for my favorite Dutch ” stroopwafel “. 2 superthin wafers with syrup in between. Of course all the girls wanted to know what the fuss is all about so I will bring some next Thursday. Actually, here in the U. K. they started to sell them at Starbucks, so have a look at your local coffee heaven and see if they have them. I say heaven as I am still not drinking any coffee with caffeine in it……it’s been almost a year now without proper coffee and sometimes I wonder why it would be bad for you if your body cries for it…….Oh well, I’ve come so far without alcohol and caffeine, I can do it for a few more months.
There was a moment this week when I could have done with a stiff drink…….this was last Monday, around 9:30am…..a bit early, you might think…..
It was time for Kye’s first 2 injections. Do I need to say more? Let’s just say, I am not looking forward to the next time, which will be in 4 weeks.
Kye and I both had tears in our eyes and I was convinced she would hate me afterwards but when I cuddled her she even tried to smile at me through her tears, that’s our girl!
She was weighed as well and she is now 10lb 8oz.
Until next week.
Heidi & Kye
Isn’t she beautiful?
I have been away from her a month and she really looks like she is growing all the time and I can’t wait to give her a big hug.
Heidi and I continue to talk about her flying with Kye to come and be with me for either the Bloggers Cruise or if not…next year for sure. I keep telling her that Kye will be fine and as I tried to convince her of this I found myself thinking of the times that I had traveled on a plane……………with babies on it.
Remember that movie starring Mr. Samuel L Jackson? I think it was called Snakes on a Plane……you know….the one where lots of snakes attack people… on a …. ummmmmm …….. plane? Well, when I watched that, I thought: “That’s nothing. They should have made Babies on a Plane.” Because babies at high altitude are much more scary than snakes.
They’re noisier, their diapers are far more venomous and you’re not allowed to chop off their heads. I know that it will probably take years for Heidi and I to recover from our first flight with Kye.
I’ve seen how airplanes can turn into a sort of us vs. them “Lost” style of nightmare, as Heidi and Kye and I battle a hail of tuts, mutterings and “Oh for f***s’ sake”s.
I am dreading the fact that Kye may fill her diaper at takeoff, then start screaming ……. because like her Dad.…she doesn’t like to have poo in her underwear. I am sure Kye will though refuse to accept that we can’t change her until the seat-belt sign is off.
And where do you change a diaper on a plane? And knowing my daughter the smell from her bottom will be so bad it will only be a matter of time before the oxygen masks drop down.
OK……..are you sitting down………….you should………..because here come some remarkable photos of your Carnival Dream.
Dream Photos:
How to you describe those photos…….how about………cruise ship Viagra!
See you on Sunday
Goodnight
Your friends
John, Heidi and Kye
70 Comments
July 17th, 2009 at 5:24 pm
Hi John!
Kye is so adorable!
Love the Carnival Dream pictures. It almost looks like it is ready for its exterior publicity photos.
Good luck with your busy week.
Though you are upset about going to 2 weddings next month, at least you will get to go with Heidi.
Have a nice weekend and take care!
David
July 17th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
What a beautiful picture of Kye. I just want of hold her in arms and plant kisses all over her. Enjoy her and thanks for sharing her with all of us.
July 17th, 2009 at 5:42 pm
Heidi, Thanks so much for the update and for the adorable picture of Kye. She is changing so much every time we see a picture of her. I can only imagine how much John misses both of you! She may do perfectly fine on flights. I traveled with both of mine as infants and had no problem at all. Their pediatrician recommended Dimetapp before taking off to help prevent pressure in their ears, and to feed them during take off and landing. You all need to be together, so as soon as you can, fly with her and join John. Please tell John that it is ok for him to blog about Kye more often. Friday only comes once a week, and that is too long to wait. Thanks again,
Sheryl
July 17th, 2009 at 5:52 pm
dear john, PLEASE REPLY
Me and my family will be going on the carnival freedom on August 1st and I was wondering if you could tell me (seeing as you are on that particular ship) where is club 02 and who will be the cruise director for the August 1st cruise?
thanks a lot!
July 17th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
What a cute baby! She looks more like Heidi every picture.
July 17th, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Photos,
The Carnival Dream photos were great however the last photo of Kye stole my heart.
What a cute little bundle of joy.
Thanks Heidi.
Dave
July 17th, 2009 at 6:07 pm
Dear John, Heidi, and Kye
Dream!
Kye is a Dream Child, I can see both of you in her!
10# she is growing so fast……
She will be perfect on the airlines long as she is dry right before boarding and suckling upon going up wards to 30 thousand feet.
Then you show us THE CCL DREAM!. Time Trial Picture # 5 was our favorite..
The Picture of the Mardi Gras brought Back memories for me, It was my first Carnival Cruise, problem is it was so long ago I cannot find any proof to get credit as a past cruise toward platinum status, except for a picture, no receipts or anything. Bummer, But Oh those pictures sure brought back the Memories..
Thanks for that
Take Care
The Tuckers in Fla
Elizaeth & Arnold
July 17th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
OK… that’s it… Kye is officially the most beautiful baby in the world… end of discussion… AND the Carnival Dream is the most beautiful cruise ship in the world… end of that discussion as well!
Regarding ‘Blogger’ John’s comment I can only say this… I read the blog for two reasons… the insider view of life as a Carnival Cruise Director and to share the life of a good friend. If ‘Blogger’ John only wants laughs and giggles I suggest he spend his time at jokesareus.com Don’t change a thing, John. You may lose the odd disgruntled individual but those of us who have been here from the beginning understand and appreciate what you do.
Heidi, it’s SO good to hear from you!! I have never had children but I can tell that you’re a wonderful parent, as is John. Keep up the wonderful job with Kye and, please, a picture of the both of you???
John, please pass along my thanks to the 367 Stephanies who work so hard to make this Blog Thingy what it is!!!
Ciao!!!
Host Mach
July 17th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Heidi, YES Kye is very beautiful. Come on BC4 on the Carnival Dream on December 3rd and if the timing is right I will be glad to buy you that first real coffee or the first real drink in a long time. But remember there is always Pump and save, then drink, then pump and dump.
BIG ED
PS to Blogger John Commented:
We here like John just the way he is. This is his blog and he is just as free as you to do as he pleases. Also you are free to not come here and read his blog if you don’t like his topics. I think you may not want to read it because there may be more comments like this one to you.
BIG ED
July 17th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
I am just so jealous of those people who will cruise the Dream soon. It will probably be years before we are able to get to that port. Have fun for me!
July 17th, 2009 at 6:39 pm
John, That is one beautiful baby!!! I see a future spokes-model for carnival cruise lines there!!!! So glad she got Heidi’s looks..That smile is to die for!! The dream is awesome too and we cant wait to cruise on her!!!!
Big Fans as allways,
Frank and Bridie
July 17th, 2009 at 6:58 pm
Hello John,
This blog thingy is wonderful! I enjoy & look forward to the time I spend “with” you each day. Thank you so much for this blog and for sharing your beautiful family with us. Your Kye is beautiful!
Since you are on the Freedom I thought I’d tell you how much we loved cruising on her for our Eastern trip this past March. I wanted to share with you what fun we had with our room steward Ellsworth and his assistant Darsana on the Empress deck. Ellsworth was everything a steward should be and more. We started leaving little notes for him every morning (just to say good morning) and they disappeared without a word. He finally asked who was writing the “sweet” notes and let us know he was enjoying them. The point to all this is I’d appreciate it greatly if you could let his higher up know what a wonderful job he and Darsana do. They truly made our cruise even more enjoyable. I know Ellsworth put in a request to move to the Fascination and I hope he’ll get what he wants because it will make him happy. Thanks so much for putting in a good word for him and Darsana!
Sorry to take up so much space but I really wanted to tell you about the guys! Thanks again for what you do…..you are truly a blessing! I hope to sail with you soon.
Anita
July 17th, 2009 at 6:58 pm
Blogger John:
We love the Blog just like it is. If you doesn’t like it….don’t read it. But 4.5 million hits prove you are wrong….which is a vastly greater number than the elusive “we” you referred to.
Any mature adult understands that complaining is not the issue. The issue is someone acting like an idiot. And only an idiot that got caught ” in the act” (and is rightly embarrassed) would be critical of it.
John:
What a wonderful picture of Kye!! It is so good to hear that Heidi is doing well. They are both precious.
Loved the pictures of the Dream as well.
I have been thinking about the Camp Carnival Talent Show (filming it and showing it on TV etc) and unfortunately, I am not sure that would work.
The Camp Carnival talent show is not limited to 6-8 acts (as the adult talent show is). To film and show it on TV would mean limiting the number of kids who could participate and that would not be good.
An ACD as the Master of Ceremonies would add a lot to the event (and give the ACD some practice for when they hit the big stage).
Placement of the event in the afternoon on a sea day (for maximum attendance) and additional advertising of the event in the Caper would be nice.
We look forward to Tortola and Antigua. We love adding new ports to our “first list”.
I drink mostly water on our cruises. I order 10 times more bottled water than I do drinks with alcohol in them and the wait and bar staff have always treated me like any other person ordering alcoholic drinks. I have never had a problem getting served at the bar or at a table.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
July 17th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Oh John & Heidi, Kye is definitely a Heald! She has John’s smile and the look in her eyes is definitely a “John Heald little girl!” She is just beautiful. Heidi, when John gets home next month you will have to give him full reign of taking care of her, and you need to go out with the girls! He and Kye need to having their bonding time together! And you need a Capuccino! Ha! Ha! Hope you do join John next year on the Dream hopefully! I would love to meet you and Kye, I hope you can somehow be there in late January when we are supposed to come on board for lunch with John, along with my son and his wife, their friends Frank & Bridie, and my daughter and her husband. Also, Paul P. & his lovely wife Marilou will be onboard and I know they would like to see you both too! Linda & Mike
July 17th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
Dear John,
Please reply if you like……..
Kye is getting more beautiful every week. Thank you to you and Heidi for sharing her with us.
I am an RN that worked for a pediatrician for quite a while…………..I must have given thousands of shots to babies and seeing the moms ………..and dads cry was the hardest part. The babies were usually fine as soon as they were picked up.
I had to fly one time with my son when he was probably about 6 mo old. He had been fine the whole flight until the descent and his ears and mine were both hurting. The lady behind me called the stewardess and gestured to me and my son and asked her if there was something she could do about “that”…………I turned around and asked her if she would like me to jump off of the plane?………..The plane landed in about 10 minutes and all was well again and I never had to see that lady again.
John, can I just say that I wish you wouldn’t give people like Blogger John the time of day…………I am so sorry that you had to read his ‘negative rant’.
I am truly disgusted by the people that get on here or on cc and have negative things to say. If you don’t like it, then don’t read it………….move on………..if you don’t like Carnival…………go see if you can find a better value elsewhere. That’s why we have choices. But don’t try and bring the rest of us down in your misery…..
I love this blog. I can’t wait to see what you have to say about the day, the people……….and the Dream………..which I will be on in March celebrating St Patty’s day with you and hopefully the rest of your family.
Take care John!
Lisa
July 17th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
kye is adorable! i know you must miss her so much john. heidi you are doing a wonderful job as a mom honey! i am very proud of you. it’s not always easy i know.
and john? see you next week!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
July 17th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Cruiseship viagra is right! We are booked on her for May 1st 2010 and I can’t wait!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:44 pm
John,
Take Heidi and Kye on a plane to be with you as soon she’ s ready. You’ve paid your dues listening to other children. I have a feeling that you and Heidi are considerate enough to ensure minimal bother to others. Being a cruise director is your dream job. These day’s in your daughter’s life only happen once. Having those you love with you while doing what you most love: priceless!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Oh Heidi, your blog brought back memories of those first immunizations and I cried too! It is just so difficult to watch your child hurt and especially when you can’t tell her what’s coming. She is just beautiful and you can see the changes in her each week. It sounds like she is really thriving and a happy baby.
I just returned from taking the grandchildren to visit my mother who is ailing. That two hour flight with 6 year old twins and an 8 year old with all the electronic thingy’s and I was still at the end of my rope with airport delays, etc. by the time we got home last night. I can’t even imagine taking them to Europe even though I would love to–maybe as teenagers.
It will take me the weekend to catch up on the blog but I did read Jaime’s “Dear John” and it was great to hear from her. I can’t even imagine her parents being upset with her for not saving money….you just have to melt their hearts with that smile Jaime!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
Heidi, a wise mother once told me to take baby tylenol (liquid) to the Dr. when my babies were going to get a shot (injection) and squirt the amount recommended for your baby into their mouth when they cried. This will cut down on any fever (etc )related side effects. worked for me.
Kye is just stunning. Thanks for sharing the pictures with us.
Jan in Michigan
July 17th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Great pictures today! Dream, Kye and the Mardi Gras. Is that a glimpse of the Carnivale? I sailed on the Carnivale in 1979-1980 (over New Years) and have pictures taken from the Carnivale of the Mardi Gras in Miami.
I sent in a whole bunch of stuff from the 1979 cruise to Miama HQ and was fortunate enough to receive credit for my charter Carnival Cruise on the Carnivale. And – I would love anything (ornament, pin, ceramic, shot glass, etc) with the Carnivale on it.
Thanks for a great blog on a very busy day! We will be sailing on the Miracle on 7/27 – getting excited!!
July 17th, 2009 at 9:08 pm
hi john u may not have a problem with kye and the plane we took our son he was 4 months on a plane to miami but that wasnt toolong of a flight.but she might sleep alot its worse when they r older my son was 2 when he cryed cause it botherd his ears . she is very pretty baby.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:20 pm
Dear John (please reply),
I am very excited to be going on my first cruise on 8/15. I am going on the Freedom to the eastern caribbean. None of us have ever cruised before (all guys, 22, 24, 25). I think you are going to be our cruise director, if I read the schedule right. Anyway I was hoping that you may have some advice about can’t miss activities on the ship. Also maybe some common “virgin” mistakes to avoid.
I appreciate you putting so much effort into making everyones vacations great! I really look forward to boarding the Freedom and meeting you. Thanks in advance for your suggestions!
Kyle
July 17th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Hi John
Thank you for your photo of Kye, she’s just adorable. She is turning out to be a real charmer. She should be fine travelling on the plane, just give her some liquids on take off and landing. I travelled with my daughter when she was 4mths old and all went well. All you can do is try it, this way at least you will be together and you can see her grow.
Too bad I cannot make the Dream this year, as I’m at the volunteer placement in Africa but hopefully next year.
Eva
July 17th, 2009 at 9:59 pm
I just want to let you know that I truly enjoy your sense of humor. If someone does not enjoy reading your blog..well they can just click somewhere else! Thank you for taking the time to share your job with us bloggers. I am booked on the Dream next June, (seems so far away) but until then I enjoy my virtual daily cruise with you!
Thanks
Laurie
July 17th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
Thank you so much for the reply! You rock!
The new Dream is awesome but not quite so pretty as Kye.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:22 pm
Hello John:
Yes she is.
Your Friend
Bill Heck
July 17th, 2009 at 11:21 pm
Great pictures today…Mardi Gras, Kye, and the Dream.
Oh, and ignore that one guy’s comments…I like to hear the good and bad and truly appreciate your willingness to share the good, bad, and ugly.
Thanks for everything you do John.
Lisa and George Kilmartin
July 17th, 2009 at 11:45 pm
John,
Kye is absolutely beautiful. I will have to send you a pic of my new grand-daughter.
Roxi
July 18th, 2009 at 12:20 am
Kye keeps getting cuter and cuter! She is adorable! I really hope time goes faster for you so you can see her soon!
Have a great weekend!
Oh, and I enjoy every days blog very much…. I don’t think you complain too much at all! =)
July 18th, 2009 at 12:30 am
Dear John,
I am writing to thank you for the most enjoyable cruise I’ve been on. I sailed on July 4th and your Welcome Aboard show set the mood for the rest of the trip. I haven’t laughed that hard in years. By the way, the blond who had enjoyed herself way too much was on my flight home. She seemed to have recovered
That was my fourth cruise and you were by far and away, the best cruise director I have had the privelege of sailing with. Thank you. I have started reading your blog and I can now see how much work goes into the planning of each day’s activities. You and your staff do a wonderful job. do.
Last, but not least, Kye is gorgeous. You must be so proud and miss her so much. Hopefully, you will be able to sail together soon. My niece did much better flying at 6 months than 18 months. She slept the first time but wanted to be up running around the second time. I wish I could have sailed with you when you and Heidi worked together. I have thoroughly enjoyed Heidi’s contributions to your blog thingy. Thanks Heidi
I am already looking forward to my next cruise and will try my best to book whatever your ship you are on.
Thanks again!
Kim
July 18th, 2009 at 1:39 am
Hi John – Thank you for the pictures of the Carnival Dream. I cannot wait until I get to sail on her.
Hi Heidi – Thank you for the update. The picture of Kye is very precious.
Clair
July 18th, 2009 at 3:29 am
Kye looks beautiful! You both must and am sure are so proud!!!
Enjoy reading your blog from time to time as Ann & I are still traveling throughout Europe (we have been here since leaving the USA on the Emerald P on the 29th April 09 to Copenhagen). We have been in Italy, France, Spain and are currently in ‘expensive’ Switzerland and heading to Austria.
Dream photos are great (hopefully we will be on Blogger’s Cruise 3 from Port Canaveral) and I look forward to hearing more on pins etc.
John…..Can you provide an update on the Platinum benefits that were in the process of being upgraded & overhauled – as per the discussions and appointment of a ’senior’ management consultant that was mentioned on the last Blogger’s cruise in February 09!
Will be in the UK in September (before returning to Copenhagen for a 28 day cruise on Emerald P to Scandinavia, Baltic, UK, Scotland, Ireland, Iceland & Greenland and then back to the USA) – and may drop in to see you Heidi and Kye!!!
Best regards.
Storm’n Norman (and Ann)
July 18th, 2009 at 6:19 am
Dear John (please reply)
Sorry to bother you with a Trivial Question but after reading you blog for the last few months I figure your the man to ask to get some answers.
I’m going to be applying to work for Carnival as a Purser(oh sorry Guest Service Representative) and I was Wondering if it was better to apply directly to Carnival or threw a Recruiting Agency. If it is threw a Recruiting Agency is there a Canadian one you could recommend?
Your Fan,
Collin Paterson
P.S. Kye is a little Cutie keep the photo’s coming
July 18th, 2009 at 9:52 am
John please forgive me if you have already answered my question. I have tried to go back and read the blogs I missed while away from home but have had no luck finding the answer.You said there was a possiblity that you might sail on the last voyage of the Holiday can you tell me if the plans have been decided yet?I will get to sail with you on Dec.3rd but was thinking of booking the Holiday if you were going to be there.
Kye is really beautiful and yes I think she does look a lot like her father! The only thing is they sure grow up fast not only in years but in actions so keep her with you as much as possible. Take care and God Bless
July 18th, 2009 at 10:23 am
John,
I hope you don’t change anything on your blog. It is great just the way it is.–well, maybe the exception would be the visual of your sitting in your underpants, lol.
I know you are missing Kye and of course she is missing you as well. I know that years ago when I flew Continental Airlines and I think BA to London, there were little “baskets” on the bulkheads between sections that were for young babies. I saw mothers just put their babies to bed in them and they had mesh covers to protect the babies during cases of turbulence. I don’t know if they still have these things, but they sure seemed great to me. Perhaps someone else would know if they are still available.
Frank & Gerri
July 18th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Hi John,
Since Kye can’t be on the ship until she is 6 months old (hate that Coast Guard rule!) I would strongly recommend that Heidi meet you as soon after that as possible.Although that would be November and then you are heading home. So perhaps she should return with you in January to the Carnival Dream. I know Heidi would appreciate the help on the plane.
As you know we traveled with Lyla at 9 months for her trip on the Freedom Inagrual cruise and she did wonderful on the flight from US to Rome-the trick is the baby Tylenol before take off just like the shots and the bottle in the mouth right after wheels up ont he plane and again coming down this way the ears don’t pop and they remain happy. I was pleased that a lady 2 rows behind us paid us a huge compliment at customs in Rome that she never even knew Lyla was there.
We did the same for her trip on the Splendor last year and now with Laynie on her trip on the Victory. Sorry for the long post just wanted to give some friendly great advice that has worked for us. We plan on seeing you on the Carnival Dream in January/February so hopefully Laynie and Kye can play together.
Thanks!
Kim
July 18th, 2009 at 11:06 am
John – Please Reply
Recently found your blog. I love it. The humor is fantastic!
My husband and I, and my parents, will be cruising in September on the Sensation. I’m a bit nervous as I’ve read negative reviews about the Sensation, even after the recent rehab.
I really want this trip to be special as it’s a double celebration – our 25th anniversary, and we’re celebrating my husband taking a break from chemotherapy (he has colon cancer). I like that the Sensation is “small” so he won’t have as much trouble walking around it.
I’m hoping the Sensation was a good choice for our first cruise. Any suggestions on making this trip extra special for our celebrations?
Thanks for your suggestions.
Lisa
July 18th, 2009 at 11:48 am
John dont bother with Jogger I mean Bloggder Johns comment to you. We all love the blog!!! Carnival and you do take complaints all the time and take them seriously. If he read this blog more he would see all you do. All you were doing was stopping someone from going to far. Please keep the pics of Kye coming she is the cutest baby I have ever seen she is so photogenic.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
John (Please Respond),
The new pictures of the Dream are incredible. I understand that the pictures are copywrite protected. I was wondering if you could allow me permission to post them on my CruiseCritic rollcall thread. We sail on her May 10th 2010.
I believe I read you will only be onboard til March. If that’s correct, do you have any idea who our CD will be yet? We’ve sailed with Todd and Wee-Jimmy and they were both wonderful. Wee-Jimmy cracks me up.
P.S. Give my best to Heidi and Kye. Do you ever get to video chat with them? Just an idea for the 231 Stephs!
July 18th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
John:
You mentioned you would post comment on what happened to couple that was left behind at Key West on the 13th. Can’t find it on your blog..
Great Trip
Dave
July 18th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Dear Blogger John: all I have to say to you is ditto to what Big Ed and Linda (mom of DJ) said to you!
Heidi you take great pictures! Of course you have the most beautiful baby to take pictures of so that helps you out. Would love to see a picture of John’s two favorite girls together!
Finally about the Dream…the pictures look like paintings because it looks so perfect. Who took the pictures? You should give them credit for them!
July 18th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
John, I willbe on the Splendor in September and I have a question or two for you. I already have been told to not worry that my Edocs or FunPass say VIP for my Cat 11 SS (spa suite)–ok, I take your word for that, therefore, I won’t (but an email I got will come with me just in case). I also want to know if/when spa services calls the guests in spa cabins to tell them what they need to know. I also want to know if I will be getting two spa passes for the free features in the spa, or will they cheap out and give me one because I am cruising solo.
Personally, I am expecting TWO passes to the spa seeing as I am paying a full 200%, which means two people. I will expect to see two and if I don’t I will not be a happy camper. I’m paying close to $3500 for the spa suite, thus, I want what is promised!
Now for the cute part, the latest pic of Kye is adorable. She is very adorable. I am sure she’ll have you wrapped around her finger in no time once you get back to Jolly Old England.
July 18th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
My husband and i sailed with you this past week on the Freedom. I want you to know i have been on 11 carnival cruises and you are by far the best CD i have ever cruised with. We laughed until we cried this week. From VIRGINIA to HUNTER to the BED TIME STORY <— oh man that was the funniest thing i have ever watched. You are amazing and it was an honor to sail with you. Friday the 17th was our 10 year anniversary and you made our trip amazing. Thanks! Cruising again in April 2010!
July 18th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
Please Reply
Hi John! I am requesting “please reply” because I would love to know how the heck you have the time to reply! I have recently began to read your blogs and am so impressed at the time that is put into each day on top of all your other responsibilities? Is this something that you do on your own or as part of your job description through Carnival? How long does it take you to do this everyday? I sincerely appreciate your time and all the nice things you do for people who ask your assistance! It is definitely above and beyond! You should be very proud of yourself for having such an impact in so many peoples lives….
Sincerely,
Melissa
PS- Sorry if you have been asked this a thousand times already- in which case, don’t reply!
July 18th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Please reply
I see on your itinerary a wedding renewal. My husband and I are cruising, our first, on Aug 9th, Freedom Western Carribean 6 night, and are celebrating our 10th anniversary the last night of the cruise. How would I go about setting up a renewal? Is it too late?
July 19th, 2009 at 2:56 am
Kye is so cute!! Love seeing pics and hearing about her!
Funny how Heidi mentioned “stroopwafels”. I had never heard of them and now I’ve heard about them twice in 2 days! Holland America Blog just posted a video of how they are made……they look good!!
http://www.hollandamericablog.com/2009/07/18/in-delft-for-dutch-stroopwafels/#
Love the blog John, you really make me laugh. I don’t know how you keep your cool sometimes….you are a professional.
Thanks!!
July 19th, 2009 at 9:24 am
Beautiful pictures of the baby and of Carnival Dream.
I have put together a photo tour of Carnival Pride which I thought you might want to check out. http://beyondships.com/CarnivalPride-Tour-1.html
All the best.
July 19th, 2009 at 10:38 am
John: (Please reply)
We just got off the Legend 1 ½ hours ago and back home in Seminole, Fl. The VIP departure was tremendous as was the entire cruise. This was our 33rd cruise (13th on Carnival) with 4 cabins. Loved our suite and our huge balcony (Cat11). Again any cruise is a great cruise! but hope you take the following comments as constructive and hopefully make it better for those that follow. Overall the ship seems to be in need of a refurbish – broken furniture, worn paint and rust around the pool, etc. Also the area around the outside grill was terribly slippery (even with deck shoes or sneakers) when it had any moisture on it and I and many people almost fell down – one lady did and was hurt. No excuse for slippery areas around those grills.
Suggest some things need improvement in the Cruise Staff area. Nothing ran on time! Bingo, shows, activities, etc – and one scheduled sports trivia – no Cruise Staff even showed up. Never saw the CD staff or CD anywhere in the public areas chatting or visiting – only saw them or the CD herself at their scheduled hostings.
Casino – you guys are making $150/hr in rake on the PokerPro and we all felt that we were on an island away from Casino Staff and bar service. Had to go into the casino to find waiter many times and it would have been nice for the Manager to offer all of us a free drink once in awhile for all the rake we contributed (RCCL does that). Also my wife said Carnival has stopped giving a free drink to the bingo audience member who verifies the winner – assume Corporate must be trying to really save money. The may be the reason for the following too:
Finally and nit-picky – this is the 1st cruise in history that bar snacks were not offered anywhere. When asked the Purser’s Office they said it was stopped 2 months ago for Swine Flu. John that is one lame excuse – if so Carnival better take the casino chips off the tables, buttons off the elevators, and arm rest off the chairs (you get my point I hope). Seems more like a nickel and dime management saving tool than health issue. I’ll let you know if it is industry wide on my next 2 RCCL cruises.
Regards and thanks for Carnival for making a great family week.
July 19th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Hi John
No need to reply…Just wanted to say your daughter is BEAUTIFUL!!!
GOD BLESS
~millie
July 19th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
John please reply.
John,
Let me start by saying that my son and I had a GREAT time on the Destiny. Captain Scala and his crew were top notch. Our first cruise with Carnival will definitely not be our last.
There was one major disappointment, however. I booked our shore excursions on-line and was interested in Carnival’s “Captain Explorer Out-Island & Snorkeling Expedition”on Grand Turk. The excursion description on-line was very misleading. It said it included snorkeling, a hike and boat ride. My son and I don’t snorkel so I emailed the shore excursion department and was told that we didn’t have to participate in the snorkeling portion of the excursion and we could wait on the boat.
However, the description did not mention that in order to participate in the “hike” on the island, we would have to swim ashore. We were not “dressed” to swim because we did not know that was included and besides, we cannot swim well. The online description just said “…. then go ashore for a hike…” when it should say “SWIM ashore”.
If we had known that was part of the excursion we would have booked something else. Instead, we ended up spending nearly $200 of my hard earned money on an excursion we did not really enjoy or could really do anything on.
I think CCL needs to update the description so people will know that you need to swim to get to shore for the island exploration hike. Being our first cruise I didn’t think about bringing this to the attention of anyone at the shore excursion or purser’s desk after our excursion.
Thanks, John.
Mike Jurgensen
July 19th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
Hey John,
We just got back from our first cruise on the Carnival Freedom July12-18….It was AWESOME! It was me, my husband and 2 daughters, ages 18 and 21. We had the best time and cant wait to cruise again but have all decided the cruise wouldnt have been the same without you! We laughed so hard at every show that you were a part of as well as the Happy Cole show which was also amazing! The service on the cruise exceeded our expectations and our dining room waiters, Widana and Kadek were the BEST! My daughters were very impressed with them and we looked forward to dinner each night with them! The only regret we had was that we did not get the Bedtime story video. We were VERY disappointed because we didnt get a chance to buy the DVD of the Bedtime story! Is there anyway we can get a copy of it now? We are hoping to cruise next year on the Carnival Dream! Thanks again for a GREAT vacation! Jinna White, Van Buren Arkansas
July 19th, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Hi John,
My wife and I will be onboard July 26th.
Will Terri Jo, the keyboard casino musician be onboard also?
Thanks, and keep up the good work!
July 19th, 2009 at 9:16 pm
Dear John,
My wife and I are finally getting settled back in to “normalcy” after a WONDERFUL HONEYMOON on the Carnival Freedom July 12th-18th. We would like to thank you and the rest of the crew for making our honeymoon perfect! I have never laughed so much watching your shows and of course the other shows were great too (especially Happy). The ship was absolutely beautiful and the guests and staff were some of the friendliest people we have met in a very long time. I have been on a few cruises and never enjoyed them….until this one. On the last day I told my wife (who loves cruises), “I can’t wait for the next one”. Living in Florida, we get used to the heat, so we are hoping to do the Alaska cruise next. Any recommendations on ports or certain “must do’s”?
Thanks again for everything!
David and Rachel Graham
July 19th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
John (please reply)
I have a question about the Carvival Dream.
While she looks super.. why all the hype???
lets face it she is the same hull as the Conquest class of ships.
Yes she does have a different stern end but at the end of the day she is nothing more than a slightly stretched Conquest class ship.
The Carnival Freedom that you are currently serving on carries 3600 passengers
And at only 130,000 tons she is far from being the largest curise liner.
While i understand that she is a NEW ship joining the Carnival Fleet I guess i am confused by all the hype…
The new world’s largest cruise ship is Oasis of the Seas, at 220,000 gross registered tons andcurrently under construction in Finland, is Oasis of the Seas. The ship will carry over 5000 passengers and rise 20 decks tall.
Now dont get me wrong, i am very loyal to Carnival as my 22 cruises with you will show, again i am just confused as to all the hype .
Maybe you can help clear the confusion as usual.
See you in 2 weeks
Cindy
July 19th, 2009 at 11:25 pm
Wow, Kye is so adorable!! (sad to say, her new weight is what I weighed at birth. My poor mother…).
Also, the Dream looks fantastic. Hoping to sail on her someday!
April
July 19th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
John,
Can you send me an e-mail address where I can send you a comment that won’t be public? I wan’t to tell you about an experience we had in Jamaica on our recent cruise and I would rather it just was for your eyes only.
Thanks,
James Osborne.
By the way, the cruise on Carnival Freedom July 12th thru 18th was absolutely fabulous. Happy Cole and John Heald are a perfect match to help others have a fantastic vacation.
July 19th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
Hi John
Please Reply
I was just reading some of your blogs and took a stroll down memory lane. When you were just John the CD. Oh sure, they did have your picture in the brochure back in 1996, but you were still John our “Cruise Director” So I thought I would drag you into this memory lane, back to January 1997 on the brand new Carnival Destiny. It was the week that Cathy Lee was shooting the video for the travel agents. A couple came up to you on the stage after the Port Lecture, I sporting an Imagination tee shirt and my wife a Sensation tee shirt. You told her you really liked her shirt, Isn’t that where you met your bride? Well anyway, I said to you “You have a birthday this week, don’t you?” And you gasped in surprise, “You remember my birthday, what is your cabin number, I want to send you a bottle of champagne, on me.” Well, we never did get the bottle of champagne, and because you are such a good CD, we didn’t care. We were just happy to see you again, and sail with you on your birthday. Now, on all the other Carnival Cruises I have taken, you were not there. So, if you would like to make good on the champagne, we are sailing on the Pride on July 31 from “Charm City”, cabin # 5150, and if you can’t, well that’s okay to. I still remember you when you were just plain old “John the Cruise Director”.
Dave Vigue
PS We are also booked in October on the Carnival Sensation with 2 of our grandsons. Won’t be quite the same without you, but we will try.
July 20th, 2009 at 8:32 am
John,
I’ve travelled quite extensively with my own kids. And take care of children in my home, 5 days a week, as a professional child care provider. And before I did THAT, I worked in many child care centers and nannied for years. (This is where you brace yourself for, what I’m sure is, the 965th piece of unsolicited parenting advice you’ve gotten since lovely Miss Kye has been born).
Here’s the thing about travelling (in planes or cars or what have you) with kids…there is no rhyme or reason to which will behave and which will be having an “off day” and scream and cry and make the parents sweat bullets trying to please said upset child. Also, being prepared is the key (comfy clothing, loads of things to do, snacks/bottles, toys, etc.) and is well worth dragging the extra bag through the airport. The other thing is this…the vast majority of other people on the plane are parents and/or grandparents and have absolutely “been there, done that” and aren’t going to haul you down to the cargo bay and string you up for having a fussy baby.
The other thing to keep in mind is that if you really want a child who is well behaved out of her “comfort zone” and as adaptable (as one would think would be a good quality to have if you’re the child of someone in your line of business, LOL), you’re going to have to start travelling with her early. There is no doubt in my mind that the kids raising a ruckus at the restaurant (or on the plane or anywhere else in public), are 99% of the time, the ones whose parents haven’t exposed them to those environments. Therefore they’re not aware of what the expectations are for them in regards to their behavior in these situations, they sense the apprehension in their parents when it comes to actually DOING anything about it, and take advantage of the situation to act however the please.
I have this ONE last of unsolicited parenting advice to just take into consideration…my whole life, spent working with kids and the past 10 raising my own, boils down to this….”The choice is this: a little work NOW, or a lot of work LATER”. Which coincides with the piece of unsolicted parenting advice given to me by my mother…”little kids, little problems. Big kids, big problems”.
In a nutshell, it almost physically pains me to hear how much your family misses one another, and don’t let some stranger’s comfort level with Miss Kye (whom you have atleast a 50/50 shot of being a total angel on the flight ANYWAY) stand in the way of you all being together.
Warmest regards and best wishes,
Stacey
p.s.–you peditritian may also have some helpful tips as to how to keep Kye most comfortable in flight. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!
July 20th, 2009 at 9:22 am
JOHN PLEASE REPLY
Hi John,
Thanks for all you do to give all us cruise addicts our daily injection of cruising escape.
I’m sailing on the Carnival Glory on August 15 and counting down the days, hours, minutes seconds…
A while back you replied to another reader about the “fill in” CD, James Charlton that will be taking over for Ryan Fitzgerald for a few sailings. Is there a chance you’d be able to do one of your fun interview thingys on James?
Thanks again!
July 20th, 2009 at 9:41 am
I GAVE UP A FREE CRUISE FOR YOU!!!!
Dear John,
I thought it might! Anyway, I dreamed last night that you came to my city of Indianapolis for the opening ceremony to the new ‘Port of Indianapolis’! Never mind the fact that the only water surrounding our fair city is a canal. ha
Did that catch your eye??
I had entered a contest (and won) to have you stay in my home. However, I was also given the chance to take a Med cruise (on your other fav line.. the Ro……!!!!…!!!!) if I would give up the priveledge of hosting you in my home.
It was a no-brainer for me (even though my hubby has ALWAYS wanted to do a med cruise!) and so, what a week we had! I enjoyed helping you prepare your blogs, showing you around the city, and of course, the ceremonies for the port! What a blast!
So I just wanted to say thank you for all the fun times I had in my dream. You were the perfect houseguest! (well, ALMOST perfect! ha ha)
You are indeed special to those here in Indy too!
Gammy
July 20th, 2009 at 11:37 am
John, please reply
Since our return from our June 29th voyage on the Inspiration I have been watching for my review of our cruise. Either I missed it, it got lost in cyberspace, or I screwed it up when I tried to send it. ( I would lean towards the last statement.) But I can’t keep waiting for you to know how thankful I am to you and Skip for making this a cruise that we will never forget.
Your kindness in making our trip special and Skip’s unbelievable efforts to make our trip special caused my son to rate this as the #1 cruise of his life. He has been on 7 total.
Not only did you turn our heads but the friends we made at dinner and elsewhere on the ship were awestruck as well. We heard the comment “How could anyone complain when Carnival goes so far out of the way to make people happy!” I thought that was great.
John, please give some accolades to the following people on the Inspiration. They did an outstanding job! Our head waiter VanBuren, our cabin steward Nelson and of course to Skip.
Thanks for being there! I really hope that you get to see Kye soon. (That has to be very difficult!)
Kenny
July 20th, 2009 at 11:52 am
Dear Eight Day Johnny,
Thanks for the pictures of Kye and the Dream. Hey if JOHN doen’t like your blog he should go to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines CEO’s blog. He might like it better there as there was no humor at all. It is a real Yawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwn!
The Cruzin2some
James & Nancy
July 20th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
John,
My wife, Elaine and I just returned home from our 32nd wedding anniversary cruise on the Freedom and just wanted to say that our experience was greatly enhanced by you. we have been on several cruises now and you were by far the best cruise director we’ve ever had. Only one thing I wanted to mention – we listened to one of the lounge performers, Julie Kryk, and as soon as I heard her I knew that someday everyone will know her name. She is a rare talent and I think that you should have her do a stage concert in the main theater for all the passengers to enjoy. We met up with her in Scott’s Piano Bar and no one was there listening – my wife and I got an individual concert and then folks starting coming in when they heard the music. So please give her more of an opportunity to shine. For anyone reading this – her website is http://www.juliekryk.com – check it out. P.S. I also tried out for the talent show and since they could only pick 4 – I wasn’t choosen – but maybe next time.
July 20th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Will Teri Jo be onboard July 26th?
July 20th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Blogger John – Add my ditto to Big Ed’s, Linda’s & Princess Susan’s comments.
Carol
Hi John & Heidi,
Beautiful picture of Kye – please try & make BC3 in November.
Hugs,
Carol
July 20th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
As ever, I am playing catch up with your blog, firstly, as others have said, Kye is very cute.
Ok, my question, the shot’s off the Dream are kind of distorted so it’s a little hard to tell, are the Balcony cabins on the side’s of the ship set back a ways ? I can see the clear difference at the aft and whilst I am not to happy about it ( I love my aft wrap sea views) I will learn to live with it I am just wondering what type of view will be had from the side cabins.
July 20th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
Thank you for responding to my letter. I will let you know if anyone contacts me. If it doesn’t work out for an UPGRADE or a GOOD upsell price. We still have our balcony and will enjoy it very much.
By the way it will be only two cruises, then I’ll be able to enjoy VIP status.. As my hubby has 8 cruises and I’m married to him, so will get to use his benefits for at least boarding.
But I still have to wait four cruise before I get my own GOLD card…
Thanks,
Kim Risley – Sept. 6th Carnical Valor.
July 22nd, 2009 at 7:14 pm
hey John,
i was on the carnival freedom cruise ship that went to key west, grand cayman, and jamacia. there was a couple who was left behind at on of the ports and you told a brief story about how they were left and you said you would write about it on your blog. my mom and i have been looking all over your blog and cant seem to find the story. so if you havent posted or wrote the story yet can you please write it. my mom and i cant wait to hear about it!
thank you for your time, Caitlin
p.s.- we got home safely!
July 28th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
john,
when are they gonna post spa staterooms picture of new dream ship. we are gonna be on the ship come jan 2010. want to catch a glimpse of our long awaited vacation. thanks in advance!
Andy
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