The Polar Express

Waiting in line to get on

A family shot in front of the train

Siena seemed pretty excited by the festivities

Waiting for the ride to start

Following along while the story was told

Fun on the train

The kids were goofing around

Until Chelsea heard that Santa was coming on board... she was a little scared

Santa gave each of the kids a sleigh bell, just like in the book

Brighton was very excited

Chelsea hid behind the seat

But when Santa handed her a bell, she quietly whispered "Thank you, Santa"

And she refused to let go of her special gift from Santa

Siena liked the songs and the jingling bells

The only picture we have of dad, since he was our photographer...

One of our favorite Christmas books is "The Polar Express", and I have read that to the kids every year at Christmastime. When we heard that they do a re-enactment of it on the Heber Valley Railroad, we knew we had to go! So tonight, Grandma Allen had gotten tickets for all of us to go together. The kids were dressed in their warmest pajamas, just like in the book, and we rode on an hour and a half-long train ride to the North Pole, where we met Santa Claus. On board they read the book aloud as we were served cookies and hot chocolate. We also sang Christmas carols and enjoyed the overall atmosphere of excitement. It was a great way to kick-start the holiday season. Thank you Grandma!