The Polar Express 2021

Wrapping up our Thanksgiving break with a favorite tradition. On our last night in Sacramento, Gram treated us to a trip on the Polar Express. We were so excited to go especially because we missed it last year when it had shut down during the pandemic. 

First stop was the candy store in Old Town where the kids each picked out a few special treats. 

Donovan got pulled up on stage to chat with the hobo.

Even though there were a few changes this year... masks required and no hot cocoa on board, the trip was still so magical. Taylor was super excited to see Santa in person but also very nervous. The kids loved looking out the window at all of the Old Town Sacramento sights. 

It was the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season! Thanks Grammie!

 

The Polar Express

It's been one of our favorite traditions to spend our last night in Sacramento visiting the North Pole via the Polar Express. Grammie has been treating us every year since Emmerson was just a tiny baby. This year, Taylor was old enough to get it and was really excited which made it extra fun for all of us. 

 A few shots of the PJ wearing cuties with their Gram before we left. 

 Then we walked around Old Town for a bit. First stop, the old fashioned candy shop. 

 Taylor was adamant that she needed a lollipop. 

 The store clerk gave Emmerson her carefully selected candies for free because she was shocked that she'd be able to eat them without any teeth. :) And Donovan was so proud to be old enough to pick out some jaw breakers and pay for them all by himself. 

 Notice, Taylor did not take long to indulge in that much needed lollipop and it made an appearance in every shot that followed. 

 Old Town was decorated to the nines. There was Christmas music playing and the town center was preparing for their annual Christmas show and tree lighting. 

 A few more views of the river before we headed to the train depot. 

 We also got to visit Santa and tell him what we wished for this year. 

 Emmerson requested LOL dolls. 

 Donovan asked for baseball sunglasses. 

And Taylor wanted absolutely nothing to do with him. 

 Next stop, the train depot. 

 We still had some time before we had to board the train. We wrote some letters and drew pictures for Santa. 

 And then we brought our golden tickets to get in line for the Polar Express. 

 This year we rode in the Gingerbread Car. 

 We waved good-bye to everyone in town that was standing around the Christmas tree. 

 Our tickets got stamped, hot chocolate and cookies were served, and before we knew it we had arrived at the North Pole. 

 Can you spy Santa outside the window? Taylor was SO excited!

 More singing on the ride back to Sacramento. 

 And then a visit from Santa who gave everyone a special Christmas bell. 

 The trip felt extra magical this year. It was the perfect way to kick off the season. Thank you, Grammie, for gifting us with these special memories. 

xo