This is the annual KCS Holiday Express Christmas train. A lovely treat for the whole family. The train makes about 28 stops yearly in various cities during the holidays. Led by Kansas City Southern's Southern Belle, the six-car Holiday Express includes a smiling tank car named "Rudy" and a flatcar carrying Santa's sleigh, reindeer and a miniature village. It also has a gingerbread boxcar, the elves' workshop, the reindeers' stable and a red caboose. At each stop, children can visit with Santa Claus in the caboose before touring three cars full of holiday displays. There also are festive music and lights. Changes each year are becoming a tradition. Last year, Santa's caboose was frosted in cool tones of blue and sparkling white lights and encrusted with ornaments. There also are changes to the O-scale model train layouts as well as new murals and lighting changes.
Unfortunately, the train was parked on a main rail line and could only stay a couple of hours. We stood in line (huge, huge lines that completely circled the entire train) for nearly two hours. Just as we were only about 7 people away from boarding, the train had to be closed to clear the railway. A good hundred or so people (my family included) did not get to tour the train. Very disappointing to the youngsters waiting to see Santa and the Elves. Needless to say, we missed the train. :( However, we had already toured it a couple of years ago and it is very nice. I just hate the fact we stood in line soooo long for nothing. My son was not a happy camper when we left without boarding the train. Oh, well maybe next year.
I'm pleased to announce that I just signed a contract for The Wild Rose Press! My short story For Better or For Worse (Title subject to change during editing of course) will be launched in the Black Rose Line. I really enjoyed writing a paranormal love story and I can't wait to see the cover. I guess we all have a bit of the dark side in us. I update later with the release date.
Today marks the official day of the Christmas Season in my hometown! Can't you tell by my son's smiling face?
In my small hometown we launched the event with our anual Christmas Parade, Town Lighting and Fireworks!
Although our town is small the Christmas lighting is well know throughout our state. People travel from miles around to see the wonderland of lights!
As the Grand Marhall led the way the first raindrops fell. So we stood eagerly awaiting the festivities with frost bitten toes and numb cheeks. As a southern state our winters are generally mild, but today we felt the full force of winter. Cold rain and rapidly dropping temperatures. However, my little one loved it all, even though we had to thaw him out when we got home!
I tried to take some pics of the parade but with the rain I'm afraid they weren't very clear!
Happy Thanksgiving!
I seriously need to blog more often. I just realized that it has been two months since my last blog. Maybe I'll do better next year. Hmm. Sounds like a resolution to add to my list for 2008.
Well, it's that time again. The holidays are upon us and this week we will all be celebrating Thanksgiving. I love watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade on tv. Maybe one day I'll actually go to New York to see it in person. And, of course, it wouldn't be Thanksgiving without turkey, pies, and dressing. With all of the holiday hoopla let's not forget to count our blessings. I, for one, am very thankful for my family and friends. And, of course, my readers!
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