The Polar Express

On Sunday, we surprised the kids with a trip to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express, aka Texas State Railroad, in Palestine Texas.  We arrived about an hour before departure to walk around a bit, take some pictures, shop, and prepare for the ride.  Prior to boarding, they reenacted a scene from the movie and then allowed us all to board.  We were in the Open Air car which made for a chilly ride (especially coming back) but we had coats and blankets, so we were prepared.  One the way they served cookies and hot chocolate.  After arriving at the North Pole, Santa came aboard and gave every child a bell from his sleigh.  We stayed overnight in Palestine which is always a fun treat for the kids staying in a hotel.  The hotel even had Polar Express craft time in the lobby in the afternoon before we left.  My parents came along.  It was good to spend time with them as well. 


Craft Time at the Hotel:

making paper trees

making bead candy canes

writing a letter to santa

The Polar Express:

in our Christmas pajamas

reenactment

The North Pole

Looking at his bell from Santa

with Periquito Azul - his school mascot

Thomas Adventure

On Sunday, April 3rd, we surprised the kids with an outing to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad to see Thomas the Tank Engine and ride his train.  They have tons of kid activities in addition to the actual train ride.   The kids (and parents) had a great time.

on the train

off to get all the stamps on our map

model train exhibit

train tables

riding a tiny Thomas

watching a Thomas video

Here comes Thomas

Nick wouldn't take a picture with Sir Topham Hat

Playing in the sandbox

boarding the train

checking our tickets