I wrote on my Facebook page yesterday four simple words “I miss my girls” and received so many wonderful comments of support back from those who read it. I know this subject and my resulting miserable will piss off some regular readers of the blog thingy but I think I am entitled to express my feelings once in a while ………aren’t I?
And I do feel down today. Maybe it’s because I am having a bad diabetic day, maybe it’s because the dollar is tanking against the sterling which means I took a big pay cut thanks to QE2 (the quantitative easing thingy, not the grand old Cunard ocean liner) although it put Carnival stocks up to a 3 year high. Maybe I am miserable because I thought that maybe I should take a walk in Mazatlan today………and then realised I had nobody to do it with and that’s when I realised again how much I miss the girls.
Yep, sitting here on Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 7:40 am in my underpants I realise I don’t have many friends on board and only a few on land. Twenty three years of traveling and an arse that smells worse than Charlie Sheen’s breath in the morning have meant that friends have come and gone. However the friends I do have…….Alan, Danny, The Bentleys, Roger, Chris, etc all have one thing in common…..if they want to contact me they never….ever……….use the phone.
My phone never rings. It just sits there, sadly, willing someone, anyone, somewhere, anywhere, to dial its number and let it play its irritating ringtone….the theme from the West Wing which considering that when I go home I have to have the Barney theme because Kye likes it isn’t that bad I guess.
Anyway, whatever my ringtone is, it is rarely heard. My cell phone will ring about once a week, if that and it is usually Heidi or someone from a call center in India trying to sell me insurance, a new credit card or a bigger thingy. And certainly nobody calls me here on the ship and says “Hey John, let’s go and have lunch” because…….well because I am the cruise director and nobody wants to have lunch with the boss and a boss who for the most part is 20 years older than them.
Let’s say I did go out to lunch with the entertainment staff here on the Carnival Splendor. What the heck would we talk about? They will be chatting about the latest video game or how the new album by Jay Diddly Black Eyed Carrot is really “phat” and did you hear that the dancer Nicky has dumped her boyfriend and has changed sides and is with a bar waitress from Latvia?
Meanwhile I am going to be sitting there hoping that they will start talking about the new Aston Martin Rapide or how annoying it is to wake up twice a night to have to pee.
Nope, I have bugger all in common with anyone here and I refuse to do that table for one thing which is even more depressing. So instead I take comfort in being able to write to you ……. that and my West Wing Box collection which I am watching for about the 300th time. I bet President Obama wishes he had a CJ Craig, a Josh Lyman and a Toby Ziegler after the midterm election results. Anyway, before I get yet another bollocking for being political…….let’s get on with some Q and A…….but before I answer the questions of the day I want to answer this one which was sent to me yesterday and as it’s very current I thought I would move it up ahead of the line.
Sam Asked:
Urgent John Please ReplyThe news is full of the cargo planes that were carrying bombs on them and this got me and my DH worried about our cruise on the Sensation next month. The ship must have lots of stuff in boxes that is brought on every week so what security do you do to make sure there are no bombs or terrorist hiding in them. Please reply as we sail in 2 weeks.
Thank you
SamJohn says:
Hello SunnysideupsamPlease don’t worry. No I can’t tell you what precautions we take but I can tell you that we operate under very strict security procedures and everything that comes on our ships is screened, including people, luggage and all supplies. We are operating at a high level of security and, as Carnival guests, you can rest assured knowing that your safety is our top priority.
Now, go and dream of fun and chocolate melting cakes and have a brilliant cruise
Best wishes
John
Here are the rest of today’s questions.
Joanne and Terry Pryor Asked:
Hi John, I am not sure if this is how I contact you to thank you for all the pre-first cruise entertainment you have provided for our daughter. We are sailing as a family with her and her husband and our grandkids for the first time on Nov. 7 (on the Splendor). This will be my DH and my 7th cruise (5th with Carnival; 8th, 9th and 10th – back to backto back – beginning in Jan. out of New Orleans – again, with Carnival). Watching our daughter count the days down from 300 and being just as excited each day has been awesome. She is a daily devotee to your bloggy thingy since about day 200 when she discovered you. Because I tend to wait until 2 months before we cruise before I start researching everything in sight, I didn’t succumb to your charm until fairly recently. I have told you alllllll this just to ask one favour (spelt correctly – the Canadian way, lol) could you possibly send a brief welcome note to her cabin from you? She would be thrilled – and very, very surprised! We sail November 7th; their name – Christi and Stephen Elley and Jerricka (15) and Matthew (12) in cabin 6237; our name – Terry and Joanne Pryor in cabin 6239. .
You are truly a credit to Carnival and we are all looking forward to meeting you in person.
Joanne
John Says:
Hello Joanne and Terry PryorSo from 200 days it’s only 3. We will be here waiting for you and of course I will be happy to send a note to both cabins with a little something to say welcome aboard. Thanks so much for the kind words and I hope you are all ready for lots of fun and relaxation and until I see you on Sunday I send best wishes to all.
John
Jerry Calvert Asked:
Reply please JohnSorry to trouble you again, but you seem to be the only one in the whole carnival corp. who’s is accessible to us peons. I (we) need access to human beings before we get on the ships! Dealing with the office @ CCL,HAL,or Princess is like dealing with robots!! Princess does not even have a blog!
Current problem (affecting both HAL & Princess) is their new pricing policies after final payment. They offer ‘new bookings” better pricing than those who have paid.Their out of their minds and they won’t even talk to you about it.
I have 2 current cases where I’m even willing to pay them more money to improve my category and they won’t even talk to us or our TA.
This will soon catch up to you, as early booking will be out.
Please pass this on to those in marketing in Miami, Seattle and San Clarita–the customers (I think we pay your salaries) need to someone to call when common sense doesn’t prevail!!Pls pass this on, and maybe someone will call??
John Says:
Hello Jerry Calvert,I am always happy to help wherever and whenever I can and I am sorry to hear about your frustration. I have sent your comments to a vice president friend of mine at Princess Cruises and I am sure he will have someone get in touch with you straight away. If you have any other problems or worries please let me know. Did you see that Princess does indeed now have a blog? It’s a great read and can be found at www.50essentialeexperiences.com. Thanks for getting in touch Jerry and I hope you get your situation resolved as soon as possible.
Best wishes
JohnCax 12 Asked:
John!! please replyThere is some discussion, much of heated over on Cruise Critic about that good old favorite subject smuggling booze. As someone who does not do this I need to know that Carnival is taking steps to put an end to this once and for all. It is because of these stupid smugglers that Carnival has their bar prices so high yet honest god fearing folks like me respect the rules and pay our dues. So how come so many glorify in saying how they have managed to smuggle successfully. They should not only have their booze taken a way but they should be stopped from cruising on Carnival ever again. As you can tell John I am very frustrated.
John Says:
Hello Cax 12,I am so sorry that you feel so frustrated and in many ways I can understand why. However, let me say that we really can’t blame our bar prices being on those who do manage to get through our security checks. Our bar prices are based on competitive reasons and are still relatively less expensive compared to many land based hotels and resorts. But I can see how as an honest person who abides by the rules how you feel like you do. We do our best to catch those who try and bring on their own alcohol but a few do escape through the net and we will continue to take steps to make sure that doesn’t happen. I will say that many of those who post their success on the cruise boards are just looking for self glorification and a pat on the back from others. Most people have now accepted our rules, just like you have.
Please let me know if you have a follow up question.
Best wishes
JohnDebbie Asked:
John: Please reply:I was on the Freedom in January and Wee Jimmy was the cruise director. My husband and I were in the audience when Wee Jimmy gave a show—-he split out his pants in front of a whole room of guests. That was one time we saw more than we bargained for!!!
Anyway, one thing they did on this cruise was a water exercise class in one of the pools. It was very well attended. This is something you could try on the TA trip. We have been on 8 cruises, 9th planned in Jan 2011, and this was the only time we saw this class. Not only was the pool full for the class but there were guests everywhere watching and believe me when I say they were watching the guy leading the class, they even cheered when he jumped out of the pool in a wet suit.
Another suggestion: The desk parties are usually late at night. We get up early and go strong all day long and just don’t make it to the parties at night. Why not have one during the day for guests who don’t make it at night.
And the chocolate buffet packs in the guests. You should have them on all the ships.
John Says:
Hello Debbie,I am so sorry you saw what you saw and now you know why they call him Wee Jimmy. He is a lot of fun though isn’t he? I have not heard of this water exercise class before either. I know it’s something we did many years ago but I had no idea some of the ships were doing it again. I am going to ask the Carnival Freedom and see who did this. Was it a spa fitness instructor or a member of the entertainment staff? If it was as popular as you mentioned then it is something that we should let the fleet know about as sharing best practices is very important.
I hope you enjoyed the deck party. I think right now we have a nice balance of games, music and films and concerts and some quiet time as well on Lido Deck. However, over the next few months you will see more and more themed deck parties that feature actual shows there. These are already in place on your Carnival Dream and here on the Carnival Splendor. The chocolate buffet is indeed on many of our ships now and is a massive hit with everyone……except us poor diabetics for which its absolute bloody torture. Thanks so much for your loyalty and if there is anything you need before your next cruise please let me know
Best wishes to you both
Johnbelottlady Asked:
John: reply:I understand that you are the brand ambassador for carnival and so I send you this review which I proudly posted on www.cruisecritic.com which I am a member.
http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=72540If being brand ambassador of Wal-Mart cruising makes you proud then that’s OK but I suggest you read this report of mine and see that you should be ashamed
John says:
Hello belottlady,Thanks for your review and there is little for me to say except I am sorry that you didn’t have a good time and can only hope that you will come back again and allow us to do better. However, I must also say that as Brand Ambassador of the world’s most popular cruise line……I couldn’t be any prouder.
Best wishes
JohnDebra G Asked:
Dear John (please reply if you’d like):Just got back from Carnival Dream (Exotic Western). I just wanted to tell you that we LOVED OUR CRUISE. I also want to pass along that Butch and Baby Butch were FAB on this sailing. I can’t say enough about the ship, the service, and anything else others complain about–I witnessed nothing of the sort.
Whatever the entertainment team has done with the shows, they need to keep it up–the shows this time were absolutely wonderful… particularly Dancing in the Streets. Please pass along to all involved we recognize their hard work and it paid off!
I do have a question and not sure if there is anything that needs to be done on this front, but here goes:
I just booked our next cruise for next September (hooray). We will be on the 9-11-11 sailing on the Carnival Valor to the Eastern Caribbean. Here’s the rub. I am having gastric bypass surgery and wondered if there is any way we could give a head’s up to the folks involved with the dining room for dinner time. Maybe that’s foolish, but I am just trying to prepare ahead of time.
I appreciate your thoughts on this, and my best to Heidi and Kye. So glad they’ve been able to travel with you!
Kind regards,
Debra from MarylandJohn Says:
Hello Debra GAfter the previous review this was a much needed read so a huge thank you for taking the time to write. I will certainly thanks all those you mentioned and of course they will be thrilled. I wish you much success with your surgery and of course please write to me and let me know what you need and I will make sure we do our very best to provide you with whatever you need. I remain here at your service and thanks so much for those kind words for Kye and Heidi.
Best wishes to you and your family
JohnIvan Arshavin Asked:
John, (please reply)Will you please tell me if Carnival will ever cruise to distant shores? I know you are in Europe in 2011 on magic but I would love to go to Asia, Egypt and Australia and the South pacific on a Carnival ship. Don’t get me wrong, I love Costa and Holland America who I take these cruises with but as thirty something single traveler I would love to experience these places on a Carnival ship. I really enjoy your blog John, you have been blessed with a terrific skill of being able to tell a story so clearly.
Ivan
John Says:
Hello Ivan Arshavin,Those are very kind words indeed and thank you for saying how much you have enjoyed the blog thingy so much and I hope that continues. I am sure you must have enjoyed those voyages of adventure with Costa Cruises and Holland America Line and yes indeed, it would be brilliant if Carnival were to sail to some of these places. Hopefully, one day we will visit these fabulous destinations.
Best wishes
JohnLorrie D Asked:
Hello John, Please replyA couple weeks ago I read on your blog that someone was taking school supplies to Cozumel for an orphanage. Is that correct? My husband and I will be sailing on the Ecstasy for our third cruise in early November and would love to be a part of this or whatever supplies are needed. Is there a way to do become involved? Does it have to be cleared first? With whom do we leave the items? Or is there someone else you can direct us for answers to these questions? Thank you for any info you can provide.
About the pets, we leave a blank check and directions with our adult daughter when we cruise. She uses the same vet for her pet’s health care and we trust their wisdom if one of our pups should become ill or die while we are gone. We do the same as the reader above and turn off our phones when we board the ship. In the event a family member has an emergency that requires us to be there, family can contact us using the Carnival ship’s information we leave with my daughter.
About the President and his look-alike: Whether you voted for the POTUS or not, the office deserves respect. Unfortunately, bad manners often win over good judgment. Thomas could probably turn this similarity of his into a new career.
This will be our third cruise in three years, all on the Ecstasy. Some friends told us we would LOVE cruising and they were right. A friend hooked us up with our Carnival Cruise Rep, Bernadine, and she answered all our questions…believe me…we had a LOT. We now count her a friend. We are booked on the Magic out of Galveston next November, our first 7 day cruise and first time with a balcony (cove). We are excited!
We enjoy reading your blog thingy and my husband now has a few new favorite words not usually heard here in the States. Thanks for the updates and entertainment you provide. We wish you and your family the best!
John Says:
Hello Lorrie DYes indeed, some of our guests have indeed brought supplies for schools and orphanages that can be found in some of our ports of call. How very kind of you to think of doing this, you are very gracious indeed. If you are going to do this and I am not too late in my reply, please let me know by return on a post marked “TIME SENSITIVE CHARITY SUPPLIES” and one of the 344 Stephanies or 29 beards whose names start with the letter “E” will forward me your post and I will alert the appropriate ship. Thanks for all your kind words and congratulations on also booking your Carnival Magic cruise. I will be writing much more about her very soon.
Have a great time on the Carnival Ecstasy and hope to hear from you soon.
Best wishes
JohnBonnie Ham Asked:
John Please Reply (if you want to)I have been reading your blog for a while now and I love it. Gives me some laughs and some frowns (rude people). I will be taking my 25th/Milestone cruise on the Elation November 15, which also will coincide with my 16th wedding anniversary. Part of the reason it will be my 25th Carnival cruise is because of the many hardworking crew and entertainment staff. Guess I should include the casino staff also. Too me they are the best I have ever sailed with, even when they are taking my money.
Thanks again for the many hours of entertainment while I am at home. Also as the owner of a retail business I was wondering where I could find myself at least 10 of those Stephanie types. I could use them when I return from my cruise to what I lovingly refer to as paperwork he! Hug that beautiful baby and wife of yours and tell them it is from one of the many people who appreciate all you do for us Carnival cruisers.
John Says:
The Stephanies have now been joined by 29 men whose name all start with the letter “E” and they have all been brilliant in helping me continue this blog and my new Facebook thingy page. I wanted to send you my warmest congratulations and thanks for reaching that brilliant Milestone status and I truly hope that this cruise is your best ever. Thanks for all the kind words and your tremendous loyalty.
Best wishes to you and the family
JohnKathryn Morrison Asked:
Dear John (Please Reply),My husband and I have been fortunate enough to be able to cruise twice a year since about 2006. It took me over 25 years to talk him into a cruise — Our first was on the Carnival Conquest and to make a long story short….we were hooked! He had booked our next cruise by the 3rd day of that cruise. I love your blog and have been a devoted fan for several years but never had the need to ask you anything, that is…until now.
We have a confirmed reservation for the Chef’s Table on our next cruise which will be the Carnival Ecstasy 10/25/2010, Cabin E128. First question…is the food served at Chef’s Table the same as what you would be getting in the main dining room that night? Also, our booking currently shows our early dining request (6:00 pm) “waitlisted”. What exactly does that mean?
Cruising means so much to us as we both have rather high stress jobs and cruising is the only way we can truly disconnect. On our last cruise this past March, the day we returned to port and left to come home, we had been on the drive less than 2 hours (of a 8-9 hr drive) when we received a phone call that my dad was in very serious condition at the hospital. Rather than re-living all our great cruise memories on the drive home, it was rather quiet and we were focused on just getting home in time to see him. Needless to say, we really don’t have much memory of that cruise at all. That’s one reason this cruise is going to be so special for us and we are referring to it as our “make up” cruise which is why I decided to book the Chef’s Table as a surprise for my husband. Sorry to have rambled on, but I guess I feel like I am sharing with an old friend, even though we have never met. Your girls are so very lucky to have you John and I know Heidi and Kye feel lucky as well. I hope we will be able to sail with you some day. Thanks again for entertaining us with your blog writing.
Kathy
John Says:
Hello Kathy Morrison,I wanted to apologise for receiving your posting too late as you have of course already cruised. I am so sorry. I do hope you enjoyed The Chef’s Table which you will have seen certainly does not serve the same food as the rest of the guests get in the dining room that night. The seven-course feast you are served is something I hope you found to be truly magnificent. I wanted to say how special ……..bugger……I can’t type that word anymore without feeling guilty…….. I wanted to say how lovely your words were and I am so glad that you and your husband discovered and then fell in love with cruising. I hope you had fun and please once again accept my apologies for the late reply.
Best wishes to you both
John
That’s all for today.
Let’s move on and meet someone who got caught.
Guest: Ms. ________ Ref: 849007682A
Cabin: _____ Booking#: ________ Added-Changed: -03/11/10 – 03/11/10REPORT MADE BY CABIN STEWARD
Cabin Steward reported to Housekeeping Manager that he had seen guest take seven blue beach towels from his service trolley and place them in her cabin. Security was sent to cabin and the towels removed and guest spoken to.
Gotcha. Some of you may say we should punish her. Maybe ban her from the chocolate melting cake or remove all the toilet paper from her cabin so she has use the toilet brush. But how many of us can honestly say that we have never accidentally on purpose stolen something. What was it that accidentally ended up in your suitcase the last time you stayed in a hotel or took a cruise? Toiletries? Bathrobes? A stateroom steward? I could copy out War and Peace 500 times with the pens and paper that I’ve acquired from hotel rooms. And those Gideon bibles don’t sell well at garage sales…….kidding. That was a joke. I wish to clarify that I have never and would never steal a Bible or any of God’s works as I believe that this would condemn a person to hell even quicker than if you were to set fire to a cactus and shove it up the bottom of anyone who refers to Carnival as Wal-Mart cruising.
People who would never dream of thieving from a shop somehow feel fully entitled to do so in a hotel or cruise ship. We lose cutlery, towels, toilet paper and even once back on your Carnival Dream you may remember me reporting how someone tried to walk off the ship with a flat screen TV from one of the cabins…….luckily the stateroom steward had noticed it missing and reported it before the guest could disembark.
I admit to stealing the pens and paper at hotels. I do this because Mr. Marriott and Miss Hilton ….the robbing bastards……charge me $7 for a Diet Coke from the mini bar…..so…… I figure that morally they at least “owe” me a towel or five and the pens and paper are making up for it. You know, the more I think about it the more I realize how so many people look forward to coming back to their staterooms after a day in the sun and an evening of spectacular food and entertainment. You just don’t get that feeling when you stay in a hotel unless it’s the Presidential Suite complete with giant plasma screens……private swimming pools and three Latvian women laying on your circular spinning satin sheet covered bed. I often get asked what is the most challenging job onboard and while many do indeed fit that bill there are not too many more challenging than that of the stateroom steward. He or she has up to 20 cabins to clean…….twice a day and yet they do so with a smile and a personal greeting and that’s why I also say that a good cruise can become a great cruise thanks to your stateroom steward. Don’t you agree?
Time for a break then and let’s go to some more Halloween photos. This time we feature the Carnival Valor and CD Goose and the Carnival Victory and CD Karl with a K.
So that’s the scary decorations put away until next year and I hope some of you will cruise over Halloween because as you have seen, its loads of frightful fun.
Now for those of you (hello Laura) who worship at the altar that is the Piano Bar………here is the current list of top piano bar entertainers.
There are 2 TBA’s there as at the time of posting we had not filled those spaces. As soon as they are I will let you know who is there. I hope you all continue to enjoy these brilliant entertainers. Now talking of schedules the cruise director schedule for the first half of 2011 will be ready soon and as soon as it is I will of course post it here on a permanent link thingy for you. One of the best additions to the ships this year has been the Punchliner Comedy Club and soon you will see all the ships have the backdrop that now features on two of our ships as seen here on your Carnival Dream.
This certainly has not been my best blog ever and as I said I am feeling miserable today. This is though the one place where I can express my true feelings because the moment I walk outside my cabin door I have to put the smile back on regardless of how crappy I feel. Loneliness brought on by missing my family and the fact that I have no real friends onboard and the fall of the dollar and my hemorrhoids and because up until yesterday I was starting to feel better about my weight………until.
I was standing with blog readers Tracy and her daughter Carrie at deck party last night when a guest came over and told me they had sailed with me before and then said, “Don’t take this the wrong way”….as soon as he said that I knew I wasn’t going to like what was said next because no good can come from beginning a sentence that way..
It’s the same when a guest says “Don’t be offended, but”….or…..”I don’t mean to bother you.”
Anyway, the guest carried on telling me he had cruised with me on the Carnival Triumph and “It seems like you’ve put on some weight.” Then he added: “Quite a bit actually” and then he laughed “ha ha ha ha” and then rubbed my stomach.
There were just so many things wrong with that, I didn’t know where to begin. First of all, is there ever a right way to tell someone they’ve gained weight? Most people will have this information already. What good does pointing it out do? And considering I was on the Carnival Triumph last in 2003 and bearing in mind that I haven’t eaten any carbs for months and my poo is the color of concrete and I think I am actually thinner than when I was on the Carnival Triumph and because he rubbed my stomach while laughing I think I had every right to take the bottle of Bud Light he was holding and pour it down the front of his underpants……how bloody rude.
Where else in the world except on a cruise ship and except said to a cruise director would this guy be able to say things like this. Does he go to hotel he once stayed in seven years ago, check in and while doing so tell Mary the front desk manager that compared to last time he stayed here she has become the size of a Hummer…of course he bloody wouldn’t.
Yet, I stood there and smiled and felt embarrassed for those around me who had witnessed this. I had planned to stay out at the deck party longer but after that I just went back to the cabin and went to bed. I went to sleep in a bad mood and this morning as I write to you my mood hasn’t changed……I am sorry about this…..you all deserve better. I feel rotten and surely the only person onboard who feels worse than me is my cabin steward Ketut who as I write is desperately trying to separate a pair of my underpants from the bathroom floor.
Luckily though I have a colleague who works for Carnival in Miami who has just returned from a business trip to the shipyard in Italy to see your Carnival Magic. He wrote me this e-mail today just in time for the blog and feeling as miserable as I do today as soon as I read this story I knew that I had to share it with you. My colleague has asked not to mention his name because he hates the limelight but you know him……..I have talked about him many times here on the blog thingy and here is his story.
Like you, I’m extremely fortunate to have a job that allows me to travel all over the world for Carnival, and I would like to share one particular story with you.
Just a few days back I was returning home from Europe, on a business trip. Four airports, and 28 hours later I would arrive home to my wonderful family, but not before I had an amazing experience.
On the longest leg of the flight I was able to get upgraded to Business Class, which I was really looking forward to. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, I’m grateful. What’s not to love, great meals, great seats, all the movies you can watch?
While at the gate waiting for our groups to be called, I noticed a man walking an incredibly large and beautiful dog. My first thought was that the gentleman was blind, and this was a Seeing Eye dog, and the second thought was, “How is this dog going to sit in a seat the entire flight.” To find out, the man was not blind, or even on this flight. The man and his dog approached a woman in a wheelchair, who looked to be suffering a crippling disease. However when the man and dog showed up, a huge smile came over her, and it had the effect on me as well, and I found myself smiling.
As it turns out, the man and the dog were there to send this woman off on her flight. So then again, I begin to envision her going to the states for treatment, and how hard it must be for her to leave her beloved pet, and husband behind. Plus, how uncomfortable she must be on a 12 hour flight. So as she strokes her dog, and kisses her husband goodbye, she boards the plane. I joined the plane shortly after, and settled into my comfy seat, which John, was no longer “Comfy.”
My mind raced with all the options. Could she be in business class too, in the cabin behind us, or was she stuck in a center seat all the way back in coach. I needed to find out. I walked back thru the plane as people were still boarding, and there she was. Cramped in economy. There was only one thing to do. I approached the Senior Flight attendant, and asked if I could switch seats with someone. He explained, “Yes but once we’re all boarded, we’ll know what seats are left.” I then explained I wanted to give up my seat for the lady in 24D, he then asked, “Are you traveling together?” I replied “No, I’ve never even met her, but I’m sure she would enjoy this long flight a lot more up here.” With a smile he said he would be happy to do it for me.
After the flight attendant spoke with a supervisor, they were some impressed with the gesture, they moved her to business, and allowed me to keep my upgrade. The only request I had was to remain anonymous, and they agreed.
There were so many people that will never know each other, working together to make this woman’s day. The airport security who allowed the woman’s husband and dog to see here off at the gate, the senior flight attendant who moved her to her new seat, and all the flight attendants who went above and beyond to make this woman’s flight.
Three hours into the flight, I received this amazing letter that will be in my heart forever!
Click image to make bigger
So if you ever feel like doing something nice for someone, Please DO!
What a wonderful story and what a brilliant thing to do. That lady will remember her journey in business class forever and my colleague should feel so proud for what he did. I will be back tomorrow…………in a much better mood I promise
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.
Hang in there John! We are here for you. But you are right about the jerk with the weight gain comment… I think I would have told him.. I remember you too from 7 years ago, you were slightly less rude!
EXCELLENT COME BACK !!!!
Linda
John-
You have every right to discuss anything you wish on YOUR blog. If someone does not want to read about you being in a bad mood or missing your girls then they can stop reading and bugger off… I for one can certain understand about how you could miss your family. Why is that such a terrible thing? It’s a human emotion after all. BUT you went on about not having any friends- WRONG! You have a lot of friends on the blog thingy. I grant you its a bit one sided- you tell us about your day but really don’t get much back from us but the occasional comment. But please understand there are many of us that genuinely care that you are feeling down.
however, I do have to give you a bit of a bollocking (is that a correct use of the term?). You complained again about not having any friends to spend time in Mazatlan with. When we sailed with you Aug 1st (we sent Kye the Texas shirt) we offered to join you for lunch in port but you didn’t respond. So you DO have friends who would not mind you spending some of their vacation time with you, but you just have to make yourself available to do so.
How you put up with rude comments about your weight I’ll never know. How much you weigh is nobody’s business but your own. At least you are trying to do something about it. I guess that is why you do what you do because I would have had to make a comment that probably would have gotten me in trouble…
Cheer Up John! Time to get Kye and Hedi on a video chat and say “hi!” It will do wonders for you.
Cheers
Jim
John (no need to reply):
Oh my gosh. I am so touched by the kindness your friend showed this woman. Wouldn’t it be great if everyone did just one act of kindness for someone they do not know. Can you imagine how much better our world would be?
I know you miss your girls and I just wanted to say we all appreciate what you do for us. Hopefully you will be getting home soon to spend the holidays with them.
God Bless,
Susan M.
Wow what a selfless act by your colleague! Sherry is right, the world needs more people like him!
I hope time flies until you’re able to see your girls!
Ahhh, I cried.
John, while I am a fairly new reader to your blog thingy, I know what it is like to be away from family, as I was in the military. While I know I’m not as good as Heidi or Kye, I am local to Long Beach(actually Anaheim), and would be honoured (spelt correctly) to invite you to lunch one day while you are here in Long Beach. Sometimes, strangers are only friends you have not yet met. I don’t know what kind of time you have on embarkation or debarkation days, so I could make it simple and just invite you to join me at the Queen Mary, or if there’s more time, I could find something else that you would prefer. If you would be so kind to let me know when and if you were available, I will make time in my schedule to come down.
Thanks for making me smile.
patti
John……I am sure that I, and many many others, would love to share a lunch with you.
How about a raffle to “Win Lunch With Your Cruise Director”? All proceeds could go to charity, and I bet tickets would sell out very quickly.
I know how it is to miss your family…..my daughter is about to move to South Korea for her career with the Department of The Army.
Take care, and thanks a million for the blog thingy….it makes me chuckle every day.
Susan
Thank you John for sharing your feelings. I can understand that your distance from your family and friends, can make you feel isolated and lonesome for them. Each of us are blessed if we can say we have a handful of close friends. Often those true friends are not close by. However we know and trust that when we do connect it will be like no time has passed.
What you give all of us is a gift. You give so much of your energy and creativity. You eat crow for us and we are not even in your inner circle of family and friends and yet you give of yourself as though we were. It must be draining from time to time. All of you that give so much on board ship are so isolated and yet your own sort of family.
Just think of the stories you will have to tell your family and friends from the crazy antics and personalities you come in contact with from us. You revitalize, entertain and inspire some of us who may also be separated from the ones we love.
Thank you for just being you.
Hi, John,
I’ve only been reading your blog for the past couple of weeks (ever since we were on the Splendor the week of Oct. 10) and I look forward to it everyday. My sister is reading it, too (she and her husband were on the cruise with us, as was our aunt and uncle), and we’re always saying “Did you see what John wrote today?”, etc.
Anyway, I can imagine a little bit the loneliness you are feeling away from your family. Two years ago, we did a two-week cruise to Hawaii with Princess. The first week was fine, but by the second week, I missed my 3 grandsons and couldn’t wait to get home. And two weeks in no way compares to your length of time on a ship! Plus I’m diabetic, also, so I know how frustrating things can be when your numbers don’t add up right. As much as this doesn’t help, remember that there are a lot of people out there who consider you a friend, even if we don’t personally know you, and true friends let friends vent and complain. So if anyone gives you grief that you weren’t “amusing” today, or such, just tell them to blow it out their ear!
I am also amazed, reading your blogs, the way people write and ask you for things (gifts sent to their rooms, etc.). I understand asking about getting help with a table for 2, etc., but beyond that, I think it’s just rude. It’s like me asking someone to give me a gift. And for that one gentleman (if that’s what you can call him) to actually rub your belly — that’s just wrong! You don’t touch anyone without their permission or unless you know them REALLY well!
We love you, John, and if you’re having a bad day, that’s okay! Everyone is entitled to them once in a while!
Take care,
Pam Wagner
I’m sorry you’re feeling miserable today John. I do hope that you take some comfort in knowing that myself and many, many, many others enjoy reading your blog and Facebook updates daily.
I am new to Carnival, having booked our first cruise on the Spirit for April of 2011. I have enjoyed learning about the company and the cruises and am very happy to have found your blog.
All the best.
Hi John: Remember you have lots of friends, including Mike and I. Don’t feel lonely because you are a Great Guy, and we all Love You! That guy is a jerk talking about your weight, I personally think you look great lately! I know how much Heidi and Kye love you and that is all that matters anyway, right? And that lady Belottlady is NOT a lady at all. First off, if she doesn’t like Carnival, don’t come back (we won’t miss you)! We think you make yourself miserable on a cruise, and not the cruise making you miserable. I hope I never meet you on a Carnival ship, I will show you what a LADY you really are! John, I hope you feel better, and if anyone else confronts you on the ship just walk away and say I don’t have to hear this! Which you don’t!
Your friends from Florida, Linda & Mike
Hi John!!!!!
my husband and I enjoyed our cruise!!! Thanks to you and your wonderful staff. We were on the splendor on October 17th throughout the 24th. We went for our honeymoon! We were so sad when our cruise was over. We are hoping to go back October 2011!!! 
for our one year wedding anniversary. John, please let Gia know Joanna and Gabriel miss him. He was our waiter at the gold pearl restaurant and he made our dinner nights soo much fun! My husband and I talk about our wonderful experience we had at the splendor everyday!!! 
I wanna go back now!!! Lol.
John:
There is nothing wrong with someone writing a review and listing some issues they had with a cruise. In fact, an “honest” review can be beneficial to the cruise line.
However, there is no place in an honest review for childish comments and displays of false arrogance.
belottlady obviously does not realize that when someone attempts to “belittle a company” with what they consider a demeaning remark which is false (like the Walmart comment)….all they are doing is exposing to the entire reading audience their lack of self esteem….and a lot of insecurity. (probably due to their lack of travel experience)
belottlady did not belittle Carnival…she belittled herself a “belot”.
People like that should really think twice before making themselves out to be the laughing stocks that they are. Hopefully she will read this “review” of her review and benefit from it.
And when she has traveled a bit more, perhaps she won’t be so uncomfortable around her peers.
So John….if you want to lighten your mood….just thank your lucky stars that you aren’t stuck in “belittled belots’ ” life.
That would bring a smile to anyone’s heart!!!
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
I just want to cruise on that ship next year. We have never been able to bring drinks in the pool or hot tubs (much less beer bottles)? Yes we try, But that gets you scolded faster than a 2 y.o. in the pool.
Some folks just need to gripe (nice word) to make themselves feel important i guess.
John, In the overall time frame ,You have just a short time till you will be cruising on the east side of the pond and the times w/ Hedi and Kye will be more abbundent.
Chin up Old boy!
John, I hope you know you have many friends on this side of the big pond. There’s not a one of us that wouldn’t do anythng we could to help you thru the loneliness you are feeling because your girls are so far away. Anyone of us would have dinner with you, sit and chat whatever we could do to keep you company. When I read this in your blog
” I walk outside my cabin door I have to put the smile back on regardless of how crappy I feel.” It so reminded me of Felipe when he wrote me and told me his grandfather is in ICU in Brazil and he was so worried, but regardless of how he feels he must put on a happy face and entertain the pax.
In some ways he reminds me of you. He told me while we were on the ship with him, that if he didn’t have fun and enjoy himself on the stage the pax weren’t enjoying themseves. Sounds so much like what you would say.
Answer your phone nex t time it rings You might have won a cruise………….LOL
Carolyn
John, What a wonderful story–I’m sure that that woman will never forget the surprise of being upgraded to business class. It just proves that Carnival has many outstanding employees–you included! Some of your stories bring tears–they are so heartfelt–especially the ones of the children with the Make a Gift Foundation. Remember the goodness you give to others–and try to block out the rude comments that people make–obviously they either don’t care or think before they speak. And yes, diabetes has its ups and downs–but you are making progress–hang in there!
John,
What a nice story to end your blog! I think we often have times when we can “make someone’s day” and we need to be open for those opportunities. You do this often in your position and many times you will never know how much you do and the impact you have. And as you work to get past the rude comments, remember how far you have come! I was just going to tell you that the recent videos and pictures you have posted of yourself look great! You need to update the picture at the top of this page – you’ve lost so much weight since that picture was taken!
Keep up the good work – and we’ll listen to you any time you need to vent!
john you don’t need to apologise for being in a bad mood, you are entitled to it like everyone else. i am pleased the blog is a place where you can show us the true you. (who is a much better person than you realize).
i cruise alone and always share a table. maybe someday we can share dinner or a walk and tell each other how much we miss our families…oh and plan ways to get back at the rude belly-rubbers of the world!
Sorry John, Cant read the blog tomorrow. I am flying to Florida so I can board the Carnival Dream on Sunday!! Woo Hoo!!!
Theresa from N.J.
Theresa,
You’d better get there on Saturday, or you will be left on the pier.
Nothing beats creating good karma.
Wal-Mart of the Seas? She actually judged the food by getting a SALAD?
I don’t know what ship she was on, but I’ve never had anything but fantastic entertainment and good food. The cabins are FAR bigger in a balcony room than they are on the Mountains of the Sea. I just wonder where she thinks a bigger bathroom is going to be placed in her cabin? She’s complaing for the sake of complaining – another person thinking she’ll have her 15 minutes of fame. Can’t we just tell her to bugger off?
Amen!
I really feel for you John cuz you are in a situation where you really have no option but to take a step back and hands off approach to most of the staff onboard. You only have a handful of staff that are at your level or higher and they probably are either too busy, or boring as hell and not fun to hang with, thus, you are alone. You have a job that means you are away from home for months on end, but you are not the only one. The military who has soldiers stationed far and away, and in some war zones, all face the same problems you face and many have additional worries like is their loved on going to come home safe and mentally sound. You, like them, have technology to help keep in touch with famiyl and friends, so that is much better than it was say 20 years ago when there was no internet or video conferencing. All you had was a telephone, a VCR, and maybe a tape recorder to listen to a taped message…..
Cheer up!
Please know that there are many reading your blog that enjoy everything you write. I keep thinking that it must be really hard to feel poorly and yet have to leave your room and “be on”. Please keep posting. I am hoping that you will get to my questions before I leave on the Glory in Jan. but if not know that I will keep reading your blog. I look forward to it every day.
Catherine
Dear John,
You have so many friends even if we all can’t be with you on the ship or when you reach shore! The rude imbecile who embarrassed you in front of other guests needs to learn some manners and tact. Don’t let people like him get you down. You are working very hard on your weight and I can tell you have lost weight – it especially shows in your face and neck! You WILL get there so don’t be discouraged by some inconsiderate bastard! It is so much harder to lose weight than to gain it!!! It didn’t get there overnight so it won’t come off overnight! I also struggle with my weight and get very discouraged, so I know how you feel when someone is so belittling! You are such a warm, loving and generous person to all guests and you deserve much better treatment than you got! You are working so hard to be healthy for yourself, Kye and Heidi!
Keep up the good work ! You are MARVELOUS!!!
Your FRIEND,
Linda A.
Thank you sharing the note from your colleague.
oh john, so sorry you are feeling blue. and that there are so many rude people on this earth. think of it this way, you are around SOOOO many people in a day’s time, much more than most of us, so it’s really only a few bad apples. i hope you can just ignore them and enjoy the rest of us…. try? thanks.
smiles, bee
John ,hope you are feeling better ,just wanted to send along my best wishes and tell you how much my girlfriend and myself enjoyed everyone on the carnival fantasy this past week.The crew where outstanding ,sexy craig ,the ass’t cd’s ,the bartenders ,Heavy D dalibor ,larry ,reinando ,kerwin ,tomo ,eco ,went well beyond our expectations and made our first ,but certainly not last ,cruise most enjoyable and memorable.Our steward aszisa and their assistants where also outstanding,the dining room staff ,Nikola the maitre D ,ferdinand ,i made ,jose louis ,emillio all were great in service and the food was outstanding.Please pass along to the beards how great they all were for making this cruise for us as memorable and outstanding for us,they all desrve much deserved recognition for their hard work.The ship was very clean and saw many crew members working hard every single day to keep the fantasty looking beautiful.I had a great time and loved every minute being onboard it was my best vacation ever.
I am sorry you are feeling down. I don’t think they could pay me enough to do yur job. And you are truly wonderful at it. Take care.
belottlady needs to be kicked in the arse!
I’m having a no-good-miserable day myself, only I don’t have nearly so many reasons to do so. With your family far away, and no good friends on board, pardon my impertinence, but why are you there? Perhaps it’s time to find a way to work for Carnival closer to your friends and family? I know you are amazing at your job but it seems to be coming at a price… such an awesome guy deserves to be happy and surrounded by loved ones!!
April
John,
I am so sorry you are having a tough time and missing your girls. I spent a year separated from my husband and our boys because of my work, and I too suffered bouts of extreme loneliness.
When I had tough days at work (akin to WalMart cruise comments and belly rubbers – who ARE these people?), it made me wonder how I ended up where I was, all alone. In those moments, I focused on the only thing I knew for sure, which was I was supporting the family I loved so dearly. At times this was the only positive thought in my head.
You are a devoted husband, a loving father, a caring person. Of course you miss your girls. Take care of your health. Get some rest. Ignore the mean comments and spiteful people (there really are nice people in California, I promise). If you want to talk on the phone, reach out to one of your friends. If I knew your number, I would be calling you now just to say hi.
John, I feel so bad for you – what a rude guy – I wish you would have poured his bud down his pants!
I’m sad that you bring so much fun and laughter to everyone else – but are so lonely without your girls – you have a right to share that with us loyal blog readers and we don’t mind at all. The next time we are on a cruise with you we would love to have lunch with you! Hopefully you will be on the Glory on January 23rd, because we will be…can’t wait!
My husband and I would be honoured to spend time with you, have dinner etc. on our T/A on Carnival Magic. When it gets closer I will let you know what our cabin is and we can get to know each other. I already consider you a friend John!!
Hey John,
Just wanted to say hi and I will keep you in my prayers. Being lonely is such a hard thing to convey, but you have done a wonderful job…as always. I wonder how many other celebrities feel the same as you? Anyway, I want you to know that while you do a fantastic service for Carnival, what you give up is noticed & appreciated by the many you make smile.
Jan in Michigan
I’d like to invite DebraG to join us at the Cruise Critic thread on gastric bypass.
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=898214
I think you will find, Debra, that after your initial healing time, there’s nothing that you will need “special” on your cruise. I’ve been on four cruises since my surgery, and I’ll be sailing again in November, January, and May! The easiest part of all this is the food on a cruise. There’ll be plenty you can eat, and by then you’ll be accustomed to the things you know you shouldn’t eat
You’ll do fine. Just follow what your doctor tells you to do!
Some time ago, you asked me to let you know how our Carnival “family vacation” on the Triumph was. To be honest, it was even better than we had hoped–especially since it started a little rocky. (I’m sharing the “rocky” part to help reassure Sunnysideup Sam about security precautions.
We sailed Oct 23-30 out of New Orleans. This was our family “Christmas” cruise since this was the only week we could all get together after our newest grandaughter had finally met the Carnival 6-months-of-age-minimum-to-sail requirement. Everyone had been given their sail and sign card except my daughter who was told she would have to go see the supervisor and promptly wisked away with me right behind her. All she could think of was there must be some problem with the baby’s birth certificate and she was so worried and scared, she couldn’t answer a question. (Did you come by car? Is your vehicle in the parking garage? Where did you park? When did you park? How many peices of luggage did you check? What do your bags look like? Who is traveling with you?)–as more and more security people arrived and took notes and talked into walkie talkies as the supervisor keyed info into her computer. When she looked up and saw that Beth was white as a sheet, about to pass out, and crying so hard she couldn’t talk, she slowed down and looked at Beth with the concern of a mama talking to her child who had almost gotten hit by a car. “Beth YOU do not have a certified birth certificate. This one with your sweet footprints from the hospital will not be accepted by Homeland Security. Where is your mama?” –to which I replied, “Right here.” Long story short, Beth thankfully lives in New Orleans, her husband had put her certified birth certificate up with their other important papers, and they were able to run home and get it. But these folks were SERIOUS. They did not care that Beth’s family was there, that she had tears flowing freely, that her baby’s birth certificate had all the same information about her that her hospital copy had, or that the vacation of 9 people was about to be ruined. They were pulling her luggage and without the proper paperwork, she would not sail. Thankfully we got to the port at 10 am and finally got on board around 3 pm–with most of the luggage delivered before supper. Funny, what was missing was the huge bag that held all the baby’s stuff like her bassinette and baby food–(which we found at the guest services after supper because it had lost it’s luggage tags.) Our little miss had her very first taste of bread and it became her favorite food. (Carnival bread is one of our favorites too).
I’m happy to report that after that drama, it was smooth sailing all the way–pun intended. The service was exceptional, the shore excursions wonderful, our grandchildren were very polite and mannerly, the Halloween events memorable, and the reason the Carnival stock went up so much today was probably from the photo sales that week. (I think our daughter thought is was against maritime law to refuse any picture that had her baby in it.) We did miss Belize because of Richard, but our Captain kept us all safe and took us back to Cozumel which we enjoyed even more than the first time. Our school age grandkids wanted to know if they had to say they had been to Cozumel twice or could they now claim a third visit since it was officially their second cruise. I think we appreciated our week together more because we came so close to losing it before we ever left.
Please let Mr. Sam know that we have cruised 59 times–24 with Carnival and we are sailing again out of New Orleans Dec 11 (double platnium finally!). He can rest assured that every possible precaution is taken to keep Carnival guests as safe as possible–including denying a passenger boarding priviledges to holding those “dreaded” safety drills to dodging storms and not docking if conditions are not right and even giving passengers extra days free or canceling a cruise with a full refund if need be. Safety is a priority or I would not risk the lives of my babies an brandbabies. Happy Sailing, Sam. Paraphrasing an old Greyhound Bus commercial, “leave the driving to Carnival.”
You have made me cry! That was so sweet what your colleague did for that sick woman. We live in such a selfish world….yet he, without thinking gave from the heart. I will be forever changed by this post.
Thank you for sharing.
How ignorant of belottlady . I don’t know what that so called lady wants. She mentions RCI and Princess then go back to them. We who believe in Carnival and think that Carnival is the best will never think of her stupid comment especially when she makes writes that ignorant statement about you being the brand ambassador of Wal-Mart. I think that belottlady is a stupidlady. Go sit in RCI’s toilet. Maybe it is larger for her large a**.
Now for you John. I don’t think anyone bad about the fact that you miss your girls. You are a normal husband and father who has been away from your family. I know that I was a couple days away from Mary Lou and I hated it so I have no way how you must feel so long from your family. Soon and you will be seeing them and that feeling will no longer be there and as you not having friends, well I’m not your best friend but I know I would love to spend some time just to hear you talk about your job, what you enjoy and especially your family but I realize that I will never enjoy that because I just a guest on a cruise and after I leave the ship I’m just like every other person that goes on a cruise. I can say you’re my friend but I realize that can’t be true. But I can dream can’t I? Enjoy the time with your family John.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
Hi John! I’m sorry to hear you’re a bit down and missing your girls; it must be so tough to be away from them. I always thought cruise directors had the life, but I guess it can’t really be “the life” when half of your life is back home.
Speaking of appreciation for cruise directors, I wanted to let you know, since I’ve seen people doing it, that the cruise director on our recent Carnival cruise was excellent. GOOSE was amazing — including handling a rather tough, awkward situation during the Marriage Show (if you can, check out the video from the cruise the week of Oct. 17 on the Valor). I was impressed.
I was also pretty excited to see your face on the Valor… in the return cruiser slide slow! My boyfriend was pretty amazed that I recognized you.
Anyway, this was my first Carnival cruise, even though my boyfriend has sailed with you guys three times now, and I have to say it exceeded my expectations. We had a wonderful time — including the Chef’s Table — and I would definitely sail with Carnival again.
By the way, I spent time every day in what I remembered as your favorite part of the Valor, Winston’s Cigar Lounge. A member of our party is a cigar smoker, so every day we gathered before dinner to listen to the live music, have a few drinks and smoke some cigars.
Dear John.. I am so sorry that the stupidity of some insensitive man had cause you so much grief. I wish I was there to give you a huge hug, specially because I KNOW exactly how you feel. I am an “extra medium” size myself, and I know how it feels to deal with the in-sensitiveness and stupidity of many cruel people that think ii is ok to be cruel to others.. just for the fun of it, not realizing that their words can hurt more than a dagger in the heart. and yes, we have to take it in and live with it. Keep your head up, cause you heart and goodness from the heart attitude is amazing. You may think you have not many friends, but indeed you have a lot of us who follow you very day and love you. Cheer up dear, soon you will join your beloved family!
Hey John, i’m thinkng Cax12 must be another troll from cruise critic.
Great letter you posted.
Hi John,
What a wonderful act of kindness on the part of your colleague to the lady on his flight! Proof that there are good people out there. Her letter of thanks just about brought tears to my eyes as well.
Clair
Wow… You are such a SPECIAL guy in all the right ways! Your blog and facebook posts are loved by so many of us. We know that your job is not always easy, but oh so appreciated by us! {{{HUGS}}}
John,
You have a lot of friends out here, but nothing can compare to family! Call the girls tonight and tell them how much you love them.
The story of your friend giving up his seat moved me to tears. God bless him!
Kristine
John
I am always amazed at people who have no sense of self sensorship. As far as missing your family and people not wanting to hear about it… I have a little saying for you. Tell them it’s better to be pissed off than pissed on!
Have a great week and if you ever fly into San Antonio we would love to have lunch with you!
The very best thing you can do is create food Karma. What a wonderful reward that Thank You note, unless your embarrassed by tears.
I am so sorry to hear that you are feeling sad. I really can’t imagine how hard it must be to be away from your family for such long periods of time. But I must say that we all benefit from you being away and being a CD. I sailed with you on the Splendor in August and you were just as amazing as you were back in 1991 on the Fantasy and on the Sensation in 1995. We all appreciate you and your sacrifice to make our vacations incredible!!! Just remember that we are all here for you during the good and bad times!!! Thank you…and just remember, you will be seeing your girls very soon!!!!
P.S. If you want to exchange phone numbers, I would be glad to give you a call to just say “HI”!!
John,
Please know that there are many many people who like and respect you All the time and love the work and entertainment you provide all of us. I hope you are feeling better soon. I know when my husband would be deployed he always said he would get very down because even though going home was getting closer it wasn’t close enough.
I know it is very hard to be in a supervisory role on a ship with a younger crew because you can’t get away and there aren’t alot of people to relate to you because you are the boss, so please don’t apologize if this is your outlet to let off steam and look for support. Tell everyone who complains to “Bugger Off”. BTW that is my first British saying. This coming from a New Yorker!
Seriously, I just traveled with you on the Splendor 2 weeks ago and it was a fantastic vacation and you were a big part of it because you were so much fun.
As for the moron who insulted you, I just do not understand people who think they have the right to come up to you and say these incredibly rude things, just please know that he is definitely an idiot , and he made an ass out of himself. Stupid sayings like that just feel worse because you are already feeling lousy.Stay strong, it will get better. Your trip home to your family will be here soon, not soon enough but soon. Take Care.
Karen
John,
I just wanted to say that I am sorry that you are having a bad day:(. I look forward to reading your blog everyday and thank you for taking time to be so many of us joy. I am going to say a prayer for God’s comfort for you right now.
Jen
Dear Jon,
I am not even sure how this blog thing works, but I am writing to let you know how pissed off I am at the idiot who rubbed your belly. Not everyone understand what a struggle weight can be in ones life. I am going to talk to you in my stern mommy voice! DON”T LET ONE IDIOT RUIN YOUR DAY! He is not even worth a second thought. It always seems like on the days we need the most love and attention, we get very little. Keep your head up and be proud of your efforts to lose weight.
Dear John,
Please don’t think bad that you miss your girls. I rember moving to Miami so I could date my husband who was working on the Majesty of the Seas. I saw him for maybe 4 hours 2 days a week while I worked at Doctors Hospital where I knew not a sole. I was home sick for Alabama but I wanted to be near the Love of my Life. So I stuck it out for over 19 months and then got married and lived in Croatia for nearly 9 months before coming back to the states. I remember those days oh so well. We now live in Panama City Florida and have 5 Carnival ships within 6 hours of us or less. We just returned from the Dream again and it is a wonderful ship. I would have to say my favorite ship.Everyone one is so nice. We love all the offerings on the Lido deck. Mongolian wok is my favorite. The comedy club is a great addition and all but one of the comedians were fantastic. We can’t wait for our next cruise!
A quick couple of comments:
At least Belottlady appeared to have actually taken a Carnival Cruise, and while I know the food on Carnival is quality, it isn’t always to everyone’s taste. I’d personally have less fish and less spicey…but that’s my personal taste.
As for Mr. Belly rubber, John, if you don’t know how to already, I suggest you learn to burp on demand. Someone rubs your belly and you let out a nice burp. Then say “Sorry, that always happens when someone rubs my stomach.” Maybe they’d realize just how inappropriate it is to touch someone like that. Just a thought.
Hi John, I had the pleaser of knowing who you are when we were on our cruise in sept on the splendor. Altho we never met you in person we did go to a few seminars you hosted and you seem to have a great time and it was your 23 or 24th anniversery with carnivel. It was an exciting day for you and your wife and cute as a button daughter was there, Well I just started reading your blog and I wanted to comment on you missing your girls. Also you said that you have some friends and none at the same time, well I have to say that even people on the ground go through the same, I have been with my company for 24 yrs and there is gatherings we go to and I have a phrase that i use often and that is “I know everyone but know noone” does that make sence? so what you are feeling is normal, You have more friends through the meeting of the cruises and believe me once people meet you, like you instantly. You are never alone, so its your second family until you get to your family again. Thanks for keeping us all laughing:o)
John:
I forgot to give a :
Punchline Comedy Club shout out to
JASON BLANCHARD…..
our FAVORITE Carnival comedian !!!!!!
HE ROCKS !!!
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
Wow, that was awesome, this is why you have 7+ million hits, keep it up kid, and thank you for your service, your sacrifice is dully noted.
P.S. God would definitely NOT be offened at those who steal bibles at all, they are the people who need it most!
P.S.S. AND THE MOST IMPORTANT THING OF ALL: I’m thinking of having a rootbeer, what kind is your most favorite?
John,
I hope you aren’t feeling blue at all today and that you’re in better spirits. Thank you so much for sharing the story from your colleague. I’ve got tears pouring down my face. I hope you have a happy day.
Shannan
John, I sure wish there was some way that you could have your family with you all the time. It must be the hardist thing to do being away from them as much as you are. You are very fortunate to have a wonderful wife who takes care of things at home (especially your sweet baby gir). Keep your chin up!!!
How rude of that jerk to mention your weight and then touch you!! The only time that ever happened to me it was a comment from a five year old. I guess that must be the idiots mental age!! (Or less)
You are looking great and I do hope you feel better very soon. Your many friends are all with you in spirit.
hi John, I will get Alan to call you, you are right we only email you. We miss you and can’t wait for you to get home. Chin up the best things are worth waiting for xxxx
Alison,
Hi to you and Alan. Would be nice to see you both on BC4.
BIG Ed
John, We all are entitled to days like you are having. I hope it gets better. It is hard to put on a happy face in public when you don’t feel that way. Please know that you have made a difference for SO MANY people in such a positive way. You are a wonderful person and I, for one, would be calling you everyday if I had your cell phone #. Maybe it is good that I don’t
Take care, Friend.
(((Hugs))) coming your way.
Ellen Schonbach (from Delaware)
Dear John-
We Hope this letter finds you in good health and wonderful spirits, as I am sure you are missing Heidi and Kye
I am sure you are thinking that this letter is just like one of about a million you receive from people asking for a favor. However it is completely the opposite.
My husband and I are booked on the Magic Transatlantic ( WOO-HOO !!!- we are so EXCITED !!!!!! not only for the first time experience on a new ship and a transatlantic journey at that, but for the fact that you will be the CD on board) We had the pleasure of you being the CD while we were on the Conquest in April, and loved every minute of it. You had us laughing so much and so hard, I think we just about pee’d our pants. Anyways, back to the reason why I am emailing you, My darling husband bought one of those electronic book reader thingy’s under the agreement that he would get rid of ALL of his books. You see, he has ummm…….well let’s just say ALOT of books. We would really like to donate them to the Magic, but we are not sure how to get them onboard. If we bring them with us to Barcelona, that could be a little pricey (with the way airlines are charging for checked bags) and then I thought that we could just have whoever came to pick us up in Galveston after the cruise to bring them, but when we were on the Ecstasy in September we asked one of the crew members in the library, and he said we could not do that. So we are coming to you with suggestions. We also have games and puzzles we would like to donate as well.
Hopefully when we are on the Magic we will get a chance to meet You, Heidi and Kye in person. They will be on this voyage, won’t they?
Thanks for everything you do !
Ken & Melissa Eckert
John:
I must apologize for not thinking of you when we were on the Spendor. To be honest, I simply assumed that you were busy doing your job and wouldn’t be interested in joining us for a walk around Cabo. We didn’t have any particular plans and we would have welcomed the company. You and I are the same age and both have young children, and Jimmy and I would have enjoyed spending the day with you.
If we ever sail again with you, I will be sure to seek you out and find out if you want company. Us 40-somethings need to stick together so we can fondly tell stories about “the good old days” (i.e., the 80s).
Need more phone calls??? Just post your phone number – I guarantee it will start ringing off the hook!
Hugs and best wishes for a better day tomorrow
Shelly and Jimmy
(no, he still hasn’t bought me a size 7 sapphire ring)
John, you keep talking about no friends. Those of us who read your blog consider you to be a good friend. If we ever get to cruise with you we’d love to meet you. If you had time to share a table with us you would hopefully consider us your friends! We would have lots to talk about.
elizabeth
You are an amazing man with a difficult job that you do to perfection!! Please do not take to heart the stupid remarks of poorly raised idiots and PLEASE remember that you have a kazillion people like me who think you ROCK!!
John we hope your blues go away soon, chin up think of the influence you have on so many people and the joy and laughter you bring in your blog and facebook thingy. The story of your colleague was so touching if only more people in the world were like that. Thanks again for all you do and keep the chin up you have more friends than you can imagine.
John, love the bog, I have only been reading this for a few weeks but I am officially hooked!
I know what you mean about missing your family, my husband works away for 4-6 weeks at a time and then is only home for 10-12 days. We, as a family, try to cram everything into those days in order to catch up with each other. He has never been home for our son’s bday since the day he was born but next year we will celebrate by taking a trip on the Splendor for his 6th bday.
I would also like to thank you for helping us get the Chef’s Table reservations for that time on the ship as this will also help us celebrate Valentines Day (my sons bday).
Once again thank you for all your help and the wonderful insights into cruising…..
Shannon
Sorry, meant “blog” not “bog”
We will be on the Inspiration on 11/29/10. This is a surprise trip. My brother-in-law had booked this trip and we decided to be pirates and raid his trip. He still does not know we are going on board. This is our 2nd trip on CCL. We are so looking forward to it.
It would be great to get a little something specical from you. We are in room R248.
I love your blog thingy.
Do not need to post, just a question.
Why doesn’t Carnival use fountains for sodas??? It seems it would be so much cheaper than all the cans they bring on board. Also, the cans are always hot and melt the ice soon after pouring.
Just wondering…
If you can answer, please reply by email. My work computer usually blocks blogs… geez
John, this “belottlady” comes across as a stuck-up snob and a type of person who enjoys making others feel bad. Isn’t that a bully? She was probably like that in high school making fun of other kids and laughing at how they dress or talk, etc. Bully behavior has received much attention lately. It’s certainly not lady-like, is it? I didn’t bother to read her “review”. Cheers, John and everybody in the Carnival family!
A good blog John, you were wrong. In this blog, you took out your bad humour, exposed the rudeness of another and the genuine good works of a colleague. This is YOU!!! And a more wonderful blog, I have never read. Thank you.
John,
What your colleague did for that woman on that long flight was a wonderful gesture. It brought tears to my eyes. The story will stay in my heart, and I will try to live more like he did.
He should be so proud.
Lisa
Sorry you are feeling so blue today….I’m sure by now you are even having a rougher time since I am reading this after the fact. I was on the Emerald Princess until Monday and and just catching up on the blog.
John,
I just discovered your blog today, and it gave me joy (to find your spirit here), sadness (to hear of your loneliness on board), laughter (from your sharp wit and wordsmithing!), anger (at those who lack “social filters” in their dimwitted comments), and touched my heart (your friend’s heartwarming story of giving to a grateful soul) – all in the span of this page! Thank you!
My wife and I have been on many cruises, on different cruise lines, and have, by far, enjoyed Carnival Cruises the most! Far from a “WalMart cruise” (what a moron, “belottlday!”) we’ve found Carnival more elegant, festive, pampering, and fun-filled, with the best food, most activities and greatest entertainment – you SHOULD be proud to represent the “Top Gun” of cruise lines!
We’ve enjoyed all of our Carnival Cruise vacations so much (we got married on our first one!) that the details sometimes blend together, but one item of particular enjoyment stands out for us, and that was our Destiny cruise on which you were Cruise Director! Your charm, wit, energy, and joy of living made it our BEST cruise, and we still think of, and reminisce, about the shows you directed, the hilarious interactions with guests that we howled at, and the delightful grace and professionalism that you gave us, every day, throughout our 7 day cruise! You can’t imagine the impact that you have on so many lives, the joy, laughter and happiness that you leave us with, when it’s time to return to “the real world!” We’ve met, appreciated, and forgotten so many others that have come our way in life, but yours is a special soul, one which stays with us – I know that we’re not the only ones whose lives you’ve touched who think likewise!
I can only thank, and give a prayer for your happiness, and also to Heidi and Kye, for sharing you with us! You’ve given us much, and cannot appreciate how grateful we are for you, and their, sacrifice!
As a rural family physician, living a distance from my parents and siblings, I find that as a result of maintaining a professional distance from patients (including coworkers and neighbors), I, too, have many acquaintances, yet few “friends” to enjoy time with. I, like you, am “20 years older” than my coworkers, with little in common socially. And although I love my work, and what I do for my patients, it took me away from my wife and children while they grew up, and now they have all moved away (my children, not my wife, fortunately!), leaving me with mixed feelings of professional gratification but also personal loss and longing for what I missed. Your words of loneliness, away from wife and daughter, struck me personally, and I hope and pray that you will be able to balance work and family, and enjoy the time together that you need to make this time on earth the best that it can be!
My wife and I will be scheduling our next cruise for Feb/Mar, and hope to find your ship to enjoy your charm again then! It would be our pleasure to enjoy a lunch with you then! (I would love to sit down and swap stories with you!)
Your Friend,
James
Just a correction to my name (how many “James”s must you hear from!?
And a note of prayer for thanks that you, and all souls on board, are safe and coming home soon! Stay well, and may God keep you safe and sound!
Your Friend,
James (from MN)