holidazzle via the polar express

A couple weeks ago, we headed to downtown on the newly opened Northstar light rail.  We’re lucky enough to have the light rail come right to us in Big Lake.  It took us to Target Field, then we hopped another light rail train to Nicollet Mall.  The boys were so excited when the train took off.  We pretended we were on “The Polar Express.”

The train horns were a highlight – not as loud as a regular train, but still train-like.

We pulled out the snacks in an effort to keep Silas sitting.

Food always makes trips more fun :0)

Our train with conductor outside.  During our ride, the conductor was walking around the train checking on passengers.  Eli said, “Mr. Conductor, who’s driving the train?”  The conductor explained that the train drives itself!  Well, sort of.  Apparently the Engineer was controlling it.

Dad and his buddy in the skyway.

We found some people we knew in a downtown hotel.

Mike’s family and siblings stayed downtown for the night, so we met them at their hotel and they joined us for the parade and Macy’s display.

 

Waiting to see the 8th floor Macy’s display.

Waiting with Paige – they held hands the whole wait.

 

The guys(and momma) were tired after the 40 minute wait to get in, but we made it through the display…it was neat(a repeat from my childhood, I believe).  The highlight for Eli was reindeer trying to push their way out of barn doors. 

Elves makin’ cookies.

Dad and Eli ready for some Holidazzle fun.  We bundled up, but it really wasn’t too cold.

 

Si hanging on my back – kept us both a little warmer.

Little Red Riding Hood was a highlight – the wolf came right up to us.  Of course Eli’s favorite was “The Wizard of Oz.”

A tired crew on the way home.  After all the walking, playing and no napping, we were beat.  What a fun, Christmastime day with our boys and family.