The North Pole Express

Here in the Heber Valley we have a real live super awesome railway, and even though we have lived here for six and a half years, we had never ridden it. With the exception of Caleb and Emmy riding it five years ago when our darling neighbors invited us to join them on the North Pole Express Train. Jonah was barely born and was sickish, so he and I stayed home. Emmy was only two and a half at the time, but she still vividly remembers it. There are no photos, only her memories. Two and a Half! That's how awesome the train ride was!

Well. 

Five years later, we finally did it. And we brought along a few cousins, because they make everything better. 

 Waiting to board! Claire couldn't stop jumping. She was ridiculously excited.

We found our spots and settled in for the ride.

These trains are the real deal, man. Trains are and new experience for us!
Jonah said "Mom, this is even better than riding on a BUS!" which was his previous favorite vehicle.

Once the train was underway a few adorable elves served fresh cookies and piping hot chocolate.
Yes please.

This train-robber lady had us all singing christmas carols. She was awesome! She had a killer voice.

These two were these two. Nuff said. Love them.

 I promise I wasn't terrified, though my face would suggest that.

These two were these two. Nuff said. Love them.

Then.... as we rumbled down the track, out the windows was a beautifully decorated hillside complete with a real live waving Santa Clause! The kids went berserk.

The train slowed and stopped, and we serenaded Santa onto the train! He was adorable. Millie was shy until he got close, then she was terrified. But the other kids loved him!

He gave them each a gold bell with a red ribbon, which they have been vigorously ringing ever since.

Thank you for joining us, Tess and Kids!