What do over 120 volunteers, a train full of excited children, and a guy in a red suit have in common? If you had been in my town last week, you would have seen the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s special run of the Polar Express.
Vehicles full of people began to arrive in the Village. They proceeded to the depot, emerging in festive attire. The cars kept coming. Soon the tracks were lined with elves, gingerbread folks, snowmen and other fantastic characters. Santa rested on a bench, waiting for his moment.
Doug drove his special train into place. All was ready. Soon train whistles were heard in the distance, coming closer by the minute. As the train pulled into the North Pole, the elves went into action, waving as they welcomed the train.
This was a special train, filled with children with special needs, their families and caregivers. The excitement was palpable. The wee train with Santa aboard rounded the corner, and Santa waved to the children on the train. The train pulled out, and another train pulled into the Village; this one also had special passengers. Once again,the elves and Santa shared their magic, and the train departed, taking it’s special cargo back. Then, as quickly as they arrived, the 120 volunteers departed. It was quiet. But for those moments, their was no question that we were in the North Pole, sharing magic with kids and families who understand what it is to BELIEVE.
As always, feel free to leave me a comment, or a stone (o), to let me know you’ve stopped by. Wander on over to My Town Monday to see who has to say what about the place called home.
How WONDERFUL! It is really amazing the unity of caring your town has as a community….This is such a perfect example of people coming together to do something very special for others! So Festive and really terrific!
We have our own Polar Express in this area, but so far I’ve not gotten the opportunity to take it. Now that I have a son, though, I can’t wait to share it with him!
Oh how fun! I love the Polar Express! And I remember that year I lived in Columbus, OH where people had candles in the windows during the holiday season – so festive!!
Our town’s Christmas festival was last week. We were almost snowed in, so Santa had to bum a lift from the Mountain Rescue people, but it was very exciting when he finally arrived.
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Kris Bordessa said,
December 6, 2010 @ 1:56 pm
What a neat event, Debra! And it looks like the weather cooperated perfectly for a Polar Express run.
rudee said,
December 6, 2010 @ 2:20 pm
What a great little town you reside in and you do a fabulous job of promotion the great things that happen there.
OldOldLady Of The Hills said,
December 6, 2010 @ 2:21 pm
How WONDERFUL! It is really amazing the unity of caring your town has as a community….This is such a perfect example of people coming together to do something very special for others! So Festive and really terrific!
Clair Dickson said,
December 6, 2010 @ 2:30 pm
We have our own Polar Express in this area, but so far I’ve not gotten the opportunity to take it. Now that I have a son, though, I can’t wait to share it with him!
Hay said,
December 6, 2010 @ 5:40 pm
Just lovely.
Barrie Summy said,
December 7, 2010 @ 4:07 am
What a wonderful event!
Kathy Holmes said,
December 7, 2010 @ 5:10 am
Oh how fun! I love the Polar Express! And I remember that year I lived in Columbus, OH where people had candles in the windows during the holiday season – so festive!!
MaryWitzl said,
December 7, 2010 @ 2:46 pm
That looks like it was so much fun!
Our town’s Christmas festival was last week. We were almost snowed in, so Santa had to bum a lift from the Mountain Rescue people, but it was very exciting when he finally arrived.
Kim Ayres said,
December 7, 2010 @ 3:11 pm
Wonderful!
Lana said,
December 12, 2010 @ 2:19 pm
How cool.
Pat said,
December 14, 2010 @ 5:44 am
That must have been a magical experience and the best part seeing the children’s expressions. Heartwarming for everyone.