Polar Express Live

It was magical! The excitement and joy I used to feel as a child at Christmas time was restored on the Polar Express. Our family, along with my parents, brothers and sister and their families, went to Williams, AZ for an amazing experience based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg. We all checked into the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel then ate at the buffet. While we waited for our train we walked through the lighted maze and visited Mrs. Santa Claus. The weather was chilly, just right for a ride to the North Pole. As our departure time came closer, we stood in line to get into our train car. At the "All aboard!" everyone got on and took their seats. This was as exciting for me as it was for the kids because it was my first real train ride. When we began moving our "elves" brought us hot chocolate and cookies. Soon we came to the "North Pole" and there was Santa getting his slay ready for Christmas. We couldn't get off the train, but Santa boarded so he could visit all the children. He visited each train car. Our car was last in line, so to pass the time we all sang Christmas carols. When Santa finally arrived he talked to all the children and gave them a special silver bell. By this time we were back at the station. If I were a kid, I would have been in heaven. But I'm not a kid and I still thought it was great. It was the essence of Christmas-family, love, joy, believing, giving. The Polar Express was a wonderful start to the holiday season!