North Pole 2014

   We tried to squeeze in as much fun as possible into Ashlyn's final week of summer break.  She wanted to go to the North Pole before she went back to school.  She has been going there since she was a 2 year old.  The North Pole is a really neat little amusement park.  It's nestled in the mountains at the base of Pikes Peak.  It has a Christmas theme, and all the rides are themed towards Christmas.  What kid wouldn't love a park full of rides dedicated to Christmas??? Even though she is getting a little old for all the rides, Ashlyn still had a great time.  Dawson, Ella, and Jameson had a great time riding all the rides as well.  Jameson wasn't big enough to ride much last year, so this year was so much fun for him.  Gracie got to watch everyone ride.  Before we know it she will be riding the rides too.  She did get to ride the train and she sat there the whole time calmly looking around.  The North Pole is always a great day of fun for all. 

Getting ready to ride

This pole is pretty neat.  It is made of ice.  The kids always get a kick out of touching it. 

Time for the ladybug ride

Even though she couldn't ride, Gracie still had a blast!!!

I love the smiles captured!!!

These two loved riding in the fire truck and rode several times in a row.  Seeing this picture gives me a glimpse of what they will look like when they both turn 16. 

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Ready to go

   Another great thing about the North Pole, is that you can actually go and see Santa.  Last year, only Ella and Ashlyn would talk to him.  This year only Dawson and Ashlyn would.  It's always so neat to watch kid's reactions to seeing Santa.  They always get so shy and quiet.  I decided he his like meeting the ultimate celebrity to them.  I would probably act the same if I met Oprah.  Dawson very calmly walked up and looked down and mumbled his name.  He mumbled to Santa that he wanted some Max Steele toys, then quickly walked away.  It was very funny!  Ashlyn was a little less shy, but still very quiet.  She told him she wanted another American Girl doll.  Santa knew a lot about the different dolls and they agreed he would bring her an Isabella doll this year.  

Meeting the big guy

Discussing American Girl dolls with Santa

The cute boys looking in the window of the toy store

Time to ride the motorcycles.  I think both boys were using their tough motorcycle faces.  lol

We always try to get a picture every year.  We always do it the wrong way and wait to take one on the way out.  That never works well because usually we have some worn out and cranky kids.  This was the best we could do this year.  Notice you can only see Ella's leg in the middle because she didn't feel like sitting up for the picture.