For the second year we made the trek up to Williams to board the Polar Express and receive a bell from Santa. The only thing missing was snow, but the kids still enjoyed it. Camden once again did not eat a good dinner and proceeded to pig out on cookies during the train ride, then wanted McD's afterwards. So much for our huge dinner buffet. They wrote letters and mailed them to Santa and for the first time in several years, we even got pictures with Santa. I cannot figure out how to scan and post those but they came out cute. Once Santa gave Camden his bell, he said, "but I didn't tell him I wanted a Bumble Bee Toy." So we said to tell him when we take pictures on his lap. So he did, then later remarked, "but he didn't give me my toy." Gotta give it to the little ones, they call it like they see it.
On the way home we stopped again to feed the deer. They swarmed around us as usual. We learned that "Ella" was the smart deer who figured out how to turn the knob on the corn machine one click at a time and get a few nibbles for free. That really amused the kids. One of the deer grabbed Kaitlyn's food and tipped the cup up with her mouth which got us all laughing.
Going back to Phoenix we took Highway 89A (scenic drive) through Sedona and toured around a little bit taking in the beautiful views. We promised the kids to make another trip up North this winter when it snows.
Views from the shopping area.
Downtown Sedona.
Ella stealing corn.
Mostly dropping the food on the ground.
Camden is a bit freaked out. They tried to eat his jacket.
Laughing at the deer taking her cup.
Little deer thief.
Kaitlyn has this fascination with her "booty"
Ringing of the bells
Showing off her new bell
Arriving at the North Pole
Cookie #2
Looking out the window, waiting to see any sign of Santa and the elves.
Cozy with mommy on the train.
Kaitlyn being silly and not sure what Camden is doing but it makes for a funny picture.
Mailing her letter to Santa.
He's easy to please.
Making mommy color the conductor.
Kaitlyn's wish list.
Practicing her writing skills.
Pictures with Mrs. Clause.
Me at 22 weeks and getting bigger by the day. Baby's *First Christmas at the North Pole.*
Posing in front of the historic train.
So excited to finally be at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.
Here is that magical moment when Santa hands them their bell.
Camden is eying the green candies.
Showing off their creation.
My first-ever homemade gingerbread house. It came out pretty well don't you think? It took all day to bake and construct and of course the kids could not wait to decorate and eat the candies. I have a whole new appreciation for the bakers on the Food Challenge Show. This was enough for me, let alone make a mansion or a pirate ship out of gingerbread. The kids left me to finish the roof but I'd say they did a fantastic job on the "lawn" and around the doors and window. It's fun to create special memories like these in the kitchen during the holidays. I'm aiming for a low-stress Christmas this year so this is one fun way to stay indoors and have some fun! This poor baby is getting more than his/her fair share of eggnog and cookies this month :)
