Riding The Polar Express

There was still light out when we got on the train which was really nice because we could see the mountains and streams on the way to the North Pole, but when we arrived it was dark which made it seem a little more magical which Christmas lights everywhere.

We attempted one family photo just before the train got really moving.

I appreciate Zach taking extra photos of me with the boys since I am normally the one with the camera.

They played the "Hot Chocolate" Song from the Polar Express Movie. The boys stood in the aisles and danced. I wish I had a video of it because it was too cute for words!

Charlie even let one of the train workers hold him while they danced.

One of my favorite things in the whole world is to see the boys smile and to hear them laugh. It just doesn't get much better than that!

They served us little holiday rice krispy treats and hot (warm) chocolate.

Cheers!!

This was the nice train lady!

They gave us little song sheets with the words to Christmas Carols. We had to sing loud so that Santa would hear us and come to visit the children on our train car.

When we sang Jingle Belles they asked for a volunteer to ring the bells. John Christian was elated to be the chosen one. People on the train oohed and aahed at how cute he was.
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Santa finally joined us. Just before he came Charlie made a mad dash across the train car. So, we ended up being in the front seat getting the first glimpse of Santa & his elf.

While John Christian anxiously waited to talk to Santa he thought he'd give him a back massage. I guess we know who'll be getting a stocking full of extra special surprises this year!

John Christian's facial expressions say it all. He told Santa he wanted magic trains.

Santa gave each of the boys a magic Christmas bell from his sleigh.
Just like in the book I hope the boys will always hear it ring.

Charlie tried to eat his bell.

John Christian had a special robe with his initials on it. It was navy blue and had pockets like the boy in the book. Unfortunately it was too warm to wear it during most of the event. According to the train helper one of Santa's elves left on a heater and it melted all of the snow!