We had a great time, we got the book from the library a few days before and read it lots with Cora so that she would be more excited. And she loved it! Although the actual train ride was focused more on the movie than the book, which I guess is a good thing cause the book isn't really that long. :)
They did a reenactment of the boy getting on the train then we all got on the train and got hot chocolate as thick and rich as melted chocolate bars :) and really good chocolate chip cookies. And rode to the North Pole and saw the little boy get on Santa's sleigh to receive the first gift of Christmas. With lots of lights and elves all over, Cora's favorite part was a huge snowman cause she isn't such a fan of Santa.
On the way back everyone in our car sang Christmas songs and Santa came by and gave everyone a silver bell. It was a magical night.
And just so you know the bell still rings for all of us.