For Pete’s 50th, I wanted to do something epic. Alaska seemed perfect—big mountains, glaciers, bald eagles… you know, manly birthday vibes. While talking to my sister-in-law Penny, she casually mentioned she and her husband Chris were headed to Alaska too. Same time. Same cruise. Cue the Twilight Zone music.

Next thing we know, my other sister-in-law Val and husband John are in. Then our niece Sarah jumps on board (literally), along with her husband Branden. Suddenly, we’ve got an Alaskan party of eight: Chris and Penny, Sarah and Branden, John and Val, and of course, Pete and me.

It turned out to be an unforgettable adventure—gorgeous views, hilarious moments, and way too much dessert. Honestly, I think the glaciers had less ice than our cocktails.