The Polar Express 2011

 
What a wonderful night! I took Joshua to The Polar Express at the National Railroad Museum. We've been three or four times before but boy - has it changed! We arrived just before 6:30. At 6:30 they opened the doors, exchanged paper print-outs for physical tickets for authentic looking souvenirs. We proceeded to find a seat in the beautifully decorated Lenfesty Center. We got prime seating on the inside row so that Joshua could clearly see the projector. He didn't want to sit on the carpet up front which was available for kids so they all could have a good view - of the story & the narrator. Once our seats were saved we walked around to see all the beautiful trees professionally decorated by supporting businesses. It was all very well done and just spiriting to see! Joshua got to play toss the snowball - into the snowman. It was cute. There was at least one other game available, toss the rings on the reindeer's antlers. But, Joshua wanted to wait in line for a tattoo. He ran up to sit in the Big Boy before we finally took our seats. It all began with a wonderful song and dance number by the authentically decked out volunteer staff as conductors - to the tune of Get your Hot Choc - o - lat! It was super-entertaining. Then, we were all served our hot chocolat'. Cups were collected and then, the story began. The narrator was wonderful, the same man from many years ago when we first came to hear The Polar Express. At the end of the story on of the conductors held up his lantern and yelled, "All aboard!" And the crowd swarmed to board the trains. Three laps around the museum grounds - on our first trip our tickets were punched. On the second we received a chocolate coin. And, on the thrid we received our bells - and only those who truly believe - could hear them ring! Before pulling into the station the whole train car sang Rudolf the Red nose Reindeer, Santa's Coming To Town, Frosty the Snowman (in which we learned most folks - only know the chorus - myself included - it was funny), and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. It was a marvelous way to ring in the season! Then, we got off the train and headed into the museum to see Santa. We were the last ones in line but Joshua did a fantastic job waiting. Santa was sitting ont the caboose in the drum head gallery - it was, as always, a perfect set-up. When we finally got to Santa Joshua sat on his lap (boy - has he gotten big) and told Santa he wanted a football - and some food. When Santa asked what kind of food Joshua replied, "Red Lobster." LOL! I had to tell Santa in our excitement to get there that evening - I completely forgot to feed my kid! It was funny. Joshua and I departed the museum - Joshua eating his candy cane Santa had given him. We had a wonderful time! I will miss this in just a few short years.