Hall Happenings: The North Pole Express

Every few years we take the family on the Heber Creeper Christmas Train. In the past it has been called "The Polar Express" and they have read that book. Due to an increase in royalties the name has been changed to "The North Pole Express" and they do not read the book but have filled the time with other activities.

We love to do this. The kids have so much fun -- and it furthers my cousins become friends (previous post) idea.

When you arrive on the train Mrs. Claus comes through and gives you a recipe to her special chocolate chip cookies. The recipe is all in rhyme.

After the train departs, the cocoa chefs come through the car and give everyone a cup of delicious hot chocolate and one of the special chocolate chip cookies.

"Grandma" and her elf lead us in songs, jokes, stories, etc until we reach the "North Pole". Then Santa boards the train and visits with each child. The one thing that remains from "The Polar Express" is that he gives each child a silver bell. The kids are encouraged to wear their jammies. The parents were all trying to listen to see if the wish list had changed since the last time they heard it. Victoria and Lilli receiving their bell.

Lijiah trying to remember what it was he wanted.

Jake was a little bashful. Santa had a hard time hearing him.

Kade really liked the bell. He wasn't so sure about the jolly guy.

Mick was laying it all out.

The silver bell. I hope it will always ring for you.

Adam, Mick, Tori, and Kade. Julie didn't come. She wasn't feeling well.

Jarod, Jamie, and Lilli.

Megan, Brad, Lijiah, and Jake.

Rhett and Natalie. She wins the most patient aunt award for the night. She had one or more, usually more, kids clinging to her all night. The kids were all "scared" of Rhett with his big beard for "No Shave November." ha ha ha