The Grand Canyon_Finally!!!!

April 20, 2009
Monday morning we got up early and headed to breakfast after taking shifts in the shower and getting dressed (reminded me of living at home and getting ready with one shower and 3 kids needing it). There wasn't as much to eat as there were choices at our first hotel but I found some cereal, fruit, and yogurt to eat. Another gentleman staying there talked with me about going to the Grand Canyon and to watch the roads for animals. I told him we were taking the train and he said he has wanted to do that. I was really excited and couldn't wait to finally feast my eyes on the Grand Canyon ("just another hole in the ground"-Mom said when we were only 2 hours away on our road trip and they didn't want to go and us kids did).

We piled in the van after determining what to take for the train. At the station I picked up a hat for DD and a little bear she wouldn't let go of while DH and my sis redeemed the e-tickets my sister got for us. We then boarded the train after a bathroom break and we were off. Our guide for the trip cracked jokes along the way mingled with lots of facts and tidbits. It was for the most part entertaining. DD loved the musicians that passes through our cars going there and on the way back (though she was frightened by one who stomped his foot and played right by her when she was fast asleep coming back).

Once the train arrived at the Grand Canyon we walked up a TON of stairs and immediately took in the view! It truly is amazing. It really is hard to take it all in and get a clear concept of how vast it is. I LOVED just looking at it. DD's favorite parts were walking everywhere (mostly on each and EVERY rock.) We ate an expensive lunch of some gross sausage dogs but the pretzel was good and later we got some yummy ice cream. We took a short hike down into the canyon to this neat arch way. I wish we had more time to hike further down but it was fun the little we got to do. LM was wonderful and slept most of the time under the burp cloth to keep the sun off of him. Both the kids were fabulous and we couldn't have asked for more from them.

We were even robbed on our way home. DD didn't get scared of them.

Overall the train was fun for the experience but we probably won't do it again unless we have some kid that LOVES trains. It takes forever to get there going around 35mph and was EXPENSIVE. Thanks for the treat though sis. DD loved the entertainment. Next time we will drive and pack the car with lots of food.