to Alaska With Family

The alarm goes off at 4:30 a.m. and the day begins fast. Today starts our Alaska family vacation. Benson, only nine months old, sleeps through it all, unaware of what lies ahead. Dawn and I move quietly but quickly, finishing last-minute packing before our early flight out of Kansas City.

The night before, we cram three large suitcases and two smaller ones with everything we think we need. We stay at my parents’ house to make the morning easier. Just when everything feels ready, one suitcase gives out. Clothes and toiletries spill across the floor. Without hesitation, Dawn heads to the store and returns with a bright pink suitcase that fits her perfectly.

With bags repacked and the van loaded, we head to the airport. Construction around KCI slows us down, but we arrive with time to spare. Another delay follows. A hydraulic pump issue pushes our departure back. Still, the excitement of exploring Seattle before cruising makes the wait feel manageable. Eventually, the plane lifts off and the trip truly begins.

Exploring Downtown Seattle

After landing, we check into our downtown hotel and grab a quick meal at MOD Pizza across the street. With food out of the way, we head toward Pike Place Market, one of Seattle’s most well-known spots.

As we walk through downtown, the city shows its contrasts. Homelessness and open drug use appear alongside tourists and street performers. One moment stays with me. A man stumbles into traffic, holding a glass pipe, horns blaring around him. He eventually reaches a trash can near Pike Place and searches for food. The scene is uncomfortable and hard to ignore.

Inside the market, the energy shifts again. Fresh seafood, vendors calling out orders, and crowds filling narrow walkways create a busy rhythm. Still, signs of addiction and struggle remain close by. It is a reminder that exploring Seattle before cruising includes both the beauty and the reality of the city.

A Taste of Seattle Before Sailing

Despite the heaviness of some moments, Pike Place Market still feels like a place worth experiencing. The food, the shops, and the history make it a meaningful stop before heading north. We wander, observe, and take it all in at our own pace.

Before leaving, Dawn finds something practical and perfect. A couple of bottles of wine to bring on the cruise. Knowing each passenger can carry one bottle makes it an easy choice and a small way to bring Seattle with us.

Ready for the Next Chapter

As the day winds down, we feel ready for what comes next. Exploring Seattle before cruising gives us a grounding start to the trip. It sets the tone for reflection, observation, and slowing down.

Except for the fresh seafood, the market reminded me a lot of the Kansas City River Market.

Stay tuned for more updates as we board our family cruise to Alaska! If you would like to read more about what prompted this experience, please read “The Story Behind the Cruise.” Also explore the whole story at Alaska 2022 Adventure.