Through the Eyes of a Child....

Our family was first introduced to The Polar Express when Elizabeth received the book as a baby gift and we absolutely fell in love with the story (so much so the Santa left an authentic sleigh bell under our tree for Elizabeth last year).  Last year, we watched the movie for the first time, which the girls loved, and since then, we have watched time and time again as a family.  The book continues to be a favorite with the girls and we read it throughout the year - its message is simple and beautiful.  Several months ago, Lee and I decided to book a package that included a three day stay at a resort in Jackson, New Hampshire and tickets for the Polar Express (train tickets are by lottery only and are extremely difficult to come by).  We kept the trip a secret from everyone for months - in fact, until the day before we left, only two people knew that we were going - our friend Janet, who went with her family last year, and our friend Adam, who dogsits for us.  The drive to northern New Hampshire was long and snowy, but completely set the scene, as the girls exclaimed with wonder about the beauty all around them.  Indeed, we were in the car for so long that Elizabeth actually asked if we were going to the North Pole.  When we finally arrived at our hotel, the girls each received a special surprise - a personal letter from Santa, inviting them to take a ride the Polar Express - and they were beyond excited!  The next day, we were able to get a glimpse of the actual Polar Express train and by the time the girls put on their new pajamas (everyone wears pajamas on the Polar Express), they could barely contain themselves!  We were lucky enough to get picked to ride in the dining car; we drank hot chocolate and munched on chocolate candy with nougat centers ("just like in the book!"); met hundreds of elves (including one named "Icky" (we think) and one named "Teacup"); and finally, met Santa himself.  From beginning to end, the trip was simply amazing and Lee and I are certain that the girls had the experience of a lifetime.  Living life through the eyes of your children - especially at Christmas - is truly what being a parent is all about.  We are blessed.
Below is a movie that I put together of photos and video clips from our trip - it really captures the experience (in fact, Lee and I both got a little misty-eyed when we watched the finished product).  If you are familiar with the movie, you will recognize the music.  Be on the lookout for Elizabeth's facial expressions...