The Polor Express

Last year, we were supposed to go to Hood River to ride the Polar Express train, but due to weather (anyone remember a fairly large snow storm in the PNW??), we were unable to go. So, this year, we tried again. The morning of the ride, we actually feared a repeat, as I84 was closed....but luckily, it opened just in time.

On the drive there, we were amazed at the look of Multnomah Falls.. Breathtaking!!

Once in Hood River, we met up with Stacie's folks and Kyle's Folks, and Stacie's step sister and family. So, there were 12 of us going on the train. The children were excited to hear "all aboard".

Once on the train, we were served cocoa and cookies. Obviously, this went over very well.....



Then the conductor came by to punch the tickets.... Allie got a "B" for believe.
Then it was time for the elves to read the book...

and time for visiting...

All in all it was a good trip. The kids (and adults) seemed to enjoy the train ride, visits by the elves and santa (ok, so not Allie.. she DID NOT like santa)...

It was just special to be with family this time of the year!