The Polar Express

This year, Cole's school Christmas program was The Polar Express. It's a great book (and now movie). They called us up and asked if we still had Cole's Halloween costumer (a tractor) around. Since we still did (we had been letting Jace and Brooklyn have fun with it in the drive way), they asked if we would mind changing it up again to a train and Cole would be the engineer! We jumped at it and had fun with some of the remodeling of the tractor -- see below. (I wish I had uploaded a better picture of the 'cow pusher' on the front, it's really perfect and made out of light weight amaterial for your vents.

Cole loved it -- as you can see.

The whole auditorium was set up as if we were all 'riding the rails' together. We got a nice and professional ticket, a bell, and a copy of the book -- all quite a treat. The conductor (shown in the background) escorted us to our seats near each class.

See these people were 'with it' -- they remembered to wear their pajamas as part of the experience ... got to read the book if you don't know.

Cole's teacher narrating the first section of the story for Cole's class. The kids participating had a switch which triggered a recorded message, since most of the kids are not verbal yet. When prompted, the kids would hit the switch and Callie would hold the microphone up and then whole audiotorium could hear each of their parts as well.

We were also given a program so we could follow along in the singing -- very helpful!

Jace and Brooklyn were taken with all of the singing, and participation -- they got to shake some snowflakes and additional bells

Grandma Jacquie was nice enough to come with us and help in the singing

Jace -- may have a future in bell rining -- Nice Job Buddy!

Brooklyn trying to keep up with her big brothers.

At the conclusion of the program, we were greeted with a special visitor. And each child could go and sit on his lap and try to convey their Christmas wish while wrangling out a candy cane.

Brooklyn Scores!

Jace giving the details on the truck he wants, now that candy cane is already in hand.

Cole's turn, of course -- messerimized by the bright while beard!

We had a great time, as usual, and are so thankful for all that Cole's school does for him, children like him, and our families. The teachers and aids and administration are truly special and dedicated and often go beyond the call. We can't wait to see what they have up their sleeve for their next production .... especially because they asked if they could 'borrow' Cole' tractor / train for the 'Little Engine That Could' production.