Holiday Traditions Part 4 - The Polar Express

While this is one of the priciest traditions in the mix, we're split 50/50 if we'll continue next year. Seeing the pure excitement and wonder in Abby's eyes was something to be treasured.  AND, I'm a big fan of experiential gifts :-) 

We picked Abby up from day care and got down to train in the nick of time. 

On our way with our gold ticket!

 We strolled pass the steaming, shiny black engine, to the conductor waving us in.  We chose one of the last cars with plenty of seats. Anxiously waiting to see what awaits us, we jump with excitement as the steam engine roars to push the train on  its way.  We pass the chefs ready to serve the hot cocoa and as the train stops they dance their way on the train!  Serving a delicious beverage and sugar cookies we dance with them. 

The train gets going as the narration of The Polar Express begins.  We're on our way to the North Pole!  The conductor stops by and asks for Abby's ticket and name.  She quickly punches an "A" and passes it back, "I hope you've been a good girl!  Santa is on his way!"

We reach our destination in record time and enjoy the sights of Casco Bay while we wait for Santa to make his way to our train car.  Finally, we catch a glimpse of the big man in red as he opens the door! 

Abby stares.  In astonishment.  Santa makes his jolly way down the aisle and stops to talk with each child.  He asked Abby what she wanted for Christmas and she stared.  What a magical sight!  Santa moved to the rest of the train and Abby just watched him.  It was really a lot of fun and I can.not.wait to see her look on Christmas morning.

I will be that Mom who races to the tree before anyone else in the family to get the camera ready.  That's another tradition I remember fondly.  We weren't allowed one step down stairs until we heard, "Go!"  :-)

The Polar Express was a big hit for us this year!