The Arctic Express

The local library held a special story time for kids called "The Arctic Express". A "conductor" was telling stories of celebrations around the world with a little bit of music and magic. The kids were encouraged to wear pj's, bring blankets, pillows, and then after the event, check out all the holiday books on display. E was dressed in her pj's and boots for a night of storytelling, music, magic, and laughter....a special treat for just us.

She was very uneasy. She sat beside me and watched the other children file into the room dressed in their sleepy time attire. They fluffed up pillows, rolled out sleeping bags, wrapped themselves in blankets and some even had a stuffed animal to throw around. E watched in silence. "Are you ok?" I asked. She leaned to my ear and whispered, "What are they doing?" After a brief explanation, I asked if she wanted to join them. With wide eyes, she just shook her head no and moved a little closer to me.

Look at that face. This was her expression for most of the event. This is boring. He talks too much. I don't understand. I don't like that story.

But every time music was played or a magic trick performed, she lit up.

The best part of the night was when he tore up a tiny piece of paper and cupped it inside his hand. He then spoke of how he wished it would snow. He waved a large fan towards his hand and the snow began to blow up around him. The magical ending was the fact that snow kept flying out of his hand. More and more and more "snow" flew up into the air, swirling around him. It was impressive. E loved it.

At the very end, the conductor had a rabbit magically appear within a box. E couldn't believe her eyes. "Is it real?" she asked. She definitely knew it was real when she reluctantly touched the rabbit while exiting the room.

I'm not sure if it was a hit. When daddy asked her about it she didn't offer too much information. She did mentioned hearing Josh Groban's song, seeing snow, and getting daddy a book to read. I think she was more excited to have a treat before bed.