Thanksgiving train trip!!

Thank goodness for the excitement that little 2 year old boys have for certain things...like trashmen, trucks, and TRAINS! Abraham decided a few months ago that we needed to go on another train trip, like the one we took in Bulgaria. We figured we had a week off, there wasn't any reason not to, so off to Santa Fe we went! The nearest station for the line we needed is about 100 miles away in La Junta, CO. It was a rather early start (0407) to get there for our train that was scheduled into the station at 0803, but well worth it. Once at the station, they checked our bags, up to 3 checked bags and 2 carry-ons per person, got our tickets, glanced at 1 ID, and kept us company until the train arrived. Did I mention the station attendant even came to the truck to get our luggage? And that parking was free??!!?!? We have discovered the ease of train travel after just arriving at the first station.

Once onboard, we got settled, the car attendant checked our tickets, and we were free the rest of the time. The train was very quiet. I only noticed the clickety-clackety when the doors were open between cars. Abraham soon mastered the doors, how to open them and transfer from one car to the next. He routinely asked to go to the club car as there were tables for him to spread his toys out. Solomon loved the train as well. He could sit on the table in the club car and wave to all of the cars on the interstate or shriek and wave at all the animals we passed. David and I loved the large, open feel of the club car with floor to ceiling windows that allowed us amazing views of the snow covered mountains.

Waiting in La Junta, watching a coal train arrive.

The check in lady. She knew the other train travelers by name that were checking in for the same train. Small town...

Ready to go!

It looks like Abraham is the right size for a carry on!

Our departure station with the little ones.

About to climb on the table in the club car.

Hanging out with dad.

Relaxing...

Once in Lamy, NM, it was time to skuut while waiting for our ride!

Craft time for the cousins.

Climbing rocks in downtown Santa Fe.

Preparing Thanksgiving dinner after our turkey trot.

The Lougeay-Benson clan after our first annual family turkey trot (5k)!!

Dad working hard to build a fire while Solomon supervises.

Heading home, again, with the little boys before the train arrives.

We had a nice few days in Santa Fe with David's family. It was great to have the boys and their cousin Alex together. Solomon managed to get 3 teeth while we were there, and Abraham got 3 bruises!! Never a dull moment. Glad to be home.

Hope you all had a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

The L-Bs.