Visiting Santa

After the Polar Express train ride, Lauren was able to visit Santa and tell him what she wanted. I love that she has on her pjs and robe. I think it looks so sweet.

Grand Canyon

Playing in the little bit of snow that was at the Grand Canyon.

The Polar Express Train ride is located about 60 miles from the Grand Canyon. Since we were that close and Lauren had never been there I thought it would a a great time for Lauren to see the Grand Canyon.

We checked out of hotel and drove to the Grand Canyon in the morning. It was a beautiful day and there was not that many people there. We were able to walk around for a while and look at the stunning views. Of course there had to be some pictures also.

The Grand Canyon is so amazing. When I look at it I can't believe that what I am seeing. It looks like a picture. When I look at the pictures of Lauren with the canyon behind her I think it looks like a back drop. It is an amazing sight to see.

Polar Express

At the hotel and getting ready to go to dinner.

Some of the group.

Lauren ready for the Polar Express Train.

On board, ready to go.

Lauren and Mommy on the train.

Lauren enjoying her hot cocoa

Cookie and hot cocoa, just like the book.

Looking at the lights as we arrive at the North Pole.

Santa giving Lauren her bell.

Lauren and her bell.

Every year the Grand Canyon Railroad has a special Polar Express Train trip. It is a fun evening. It starts with a great dinner at the train depot and then the kids change into their PJs, robe and slippers. We then board the train for a trip to the North Pole. On board, they are served hot cocoa and cookies. Then the Polar Express book is read to everyone. A little while later we arrive at the North Pole and we see Santa getting ready for Christmas. When we head back Santa comes into the train cars and presents each child with a bell. The the train ride is finished with singing. When we got back to the station we went to see Mrs. Claus and have some pictures taken with Santa. It is a really fun time. This was our first time but I am sure it will not be our last.

We went with a group of friends. It was fun to spend time celebrating the Christmas season with special friends.

Sedona

Sedona is such a beautiful place. The red rocks are just stunning. I have never taken Lauren up to Sedona. This weekend on our way up to Williams I decided to drive through Sedona and show Lauren this wonderful area of Arizona. We had time to take a short walk and of course take a few pictures.

Radio City Rockettes

Lauren posing with the Rockettes

Tonight we joined some friends and attended the performance of the Radio City Rockettes. They are amazing to watch and the show is always so much fun. My hope is to take Lauren to New York City some day during the Christmas season. It would be fun to see this show in New York but for now we will enjoy it in Arizona.

Countdown to Christmas

A few years ago I purchased a countdown to Christmas house. It has little places to put a small gift or piece of candy for 24 days. Lauren looks forward to doing this fun activity every year. I try to find things through out the year that I can use for this. Some of the gifts are too big to put in the little doors so sometimes they just sit outside the house. It is fun to watch Lauren run to the house each morning to see her new little gift.

Time to decorate for Christmas

I was trying to get Lauren in the act of decorating but she was not going to let me take a good picture.

The house is decorated and we are now ready for the Holidays to begin. I try to make my house look really fun but my rule is that I only spend one day decorating. It is a long day but once it is done I can relax and enjoy the rest of the month.