The Polar Express

We just got back this afternoon from our adventure in Williams to the Polar Express. We had a fun time. We left yesterday afternoon and drove to Williams. The drive was less than desirable and not one I would want to repeat. The girls were not cooperating; it was a relief when Libby finally fell asleep. Once we got there, however, the girls did great and were very well-behaved. We checked into the Grand Canyon Railway hotel and layered up with thermals and jackets. Then we ate dinner at Max & Thelma's. It was a buffet dinner, but I think we all only had one full plate. The best part for Eliza and Libby was watching the toy train that circled throughout the restaurant. After dinner, we checked out the gift shops, then got ready to board The Polar Express. We got on the train and left soon after for the North Pole. On the way, we enojyed hot (warm) cocoa, chocolate chip cookies and listening to the story as we followed along in our book. We slowly passed the North Pole and waved at Santa and one of his elves who were there. Then we stopped and went the opposite way back to the train depot. We sang Christmas carols and had a visit from Santa Claus who came on our car and gave each kid a HUGE bell from his sleigh--like the book. After returning to the depot, we got off the train and decided to take a short carriage ride on Main Street to see the shops and some Christmas lights. The girls had a great time. I was glad that Libby wasn't scared at all (after our adventure in DisneyWorld this summer). We got back to the room and had a little trouble getting Libby to bed, but we survived and slept! This morning after getting ready, we returned to Max & Thelma's for breakfast and the girls picked out these cute dangling monkey stuffed animals from the gift shop.

Then we started for home and traveled on the 89A through Sedona, Cottonwood, Prescott, then home. It was a very beautiful drive through Sedona, although I had to watch the road so I didn't end up getting sick. :) The ride home was 100% better and the girls were great, thank goodness! We went straight to Brian's parents' house to pick up Ellie who enjoyed a fun sleepover over there. She did great and seemed to miss Brian the most. What a daddy's girl! Now it's back to the grind and trying to get caught up on the Christmas shopping I am so far behind on.