The Polar Express

A few years ago Tim's parents invited us to ride the Polar Express - a first for either Tim or I.  We had a fantastic time and it quickly became one of our favorite holiday traditions.  Each year the kids have seemed to enjoy it a little more and this year it was especially fun.  We have had a different group of people each year and this time it was our little family as well as Cory and Calvin.  We took plenty of pictures of the journey, but the real magic was in the singing and dancing (I think we got a few good videos).  As we traveled to and from the North Pole, the kids were really into the entertainment.  We all had the best time dancing and singing along to Christmas classics. I loved watching the kids act silly and have fun together.  Calvin was the best sport and was so patient with Luke and Ruby who equally adore him and vie constantly for his attention. 

In the past we have always taken the later train and it was dark when we arrived.  This time we took the 5:00 p.m. train so it was light when we began and then gradually got dark.  It was cool to be able to experience both and the kids especially loved watching out the windows while it was still light.

Two of the favorite traditions of the Polar Express...

The Conductor

And of course....Hot Chocolate

As we passed the North Pole, we waived to Santa who was out on his porch, then he came onto the train and joined us for part of the ride.  It was the kids first time to see Santa this year and watching their reactions was pretty magical.   I even got a chance to talk to the big man.

We had the best adventure and the kids are already talking about next year's ride on the Polar Express.  I love all of these magical experiences with our little ones.