ALLLLLL ABOARD!

Today we traveled to Batesville MS to ride on the Polar Express.

I love that both boys had Polar Express days at school this year. Both are familiar with the book and have watched the movie several times. When I told Evan and Luke about our trip, they couldn't be more excited. Evan was afraid he was going to get motion sick, but I told him we could save that for the ride home (which we did...).

Luke counted down the days after we told him. I think he was looking forward to it as much as Christmas. Evan was triple excited because not only was he going to the Polar Express, but he was getting to see Lane, Nonna and Pop AND the Texas Asbells! He was literally jumping down the sidewalk.

I had a hard time sleeping the night before so around 2:30am, I got up and started stalking the weather. I knew it was going to rain, but wanted to see if we'd miss it. What I found out was not only was it going to rain, but the meteorologist had predicted tornados...for the exact time we were set to board. Tornados, 70 degrees in December...Mother Nature is surely off her meds again.

Thankfully we only dodged one short downpour. We got our golden tickets, boarded the train and were off! (John and I not pictured because well...I am taking the pictures and John was sitting with the Lawsons.)

   

There was story telling, singing, 'in your seat' dancing, hot chocolate, cookies and a visit from Santa himself. The ride lasted about an hour and Luke only once said his famous line, "This is taking for a long time."

The chefs came around with yummy hot chocolate and a sugar cookie that disappeared in these boys mouths within seconds.

 

 

The conductor came and punched our tickets. Because the kids are so familiar with the movie they were each trying to figure out what letters they got. I hated to burst their bubble and tell them he was just randomly punching holes.



We even got a visit from the 'ghost' from the train. He entertained the boys with some magic tricks.


And lastly...the man of the hour!! Santa!!!




When the ride was over, we got one final picture (minus Gemma). I absolutely love this picture. I think it's my favorite of all. The way Evan, the oldest, is putting his arms around all the kids and making sure Skylar is okay. Melt my heart. I am so happy we got to share this with our friends and family.