If you're looking for someone to jabber with, on the trip up, I know of a guy. His kids could help watch your kids, to make the whole thing sail a little smoother.
Man! What does a guy use to cut those big 'buts up? A broadsword, straight out of a Conan movie?
Huff, are you going to make some more Halibut Bread? Ohh, that was good..!