Mt. Rainier Steam Train

We took Micah and Hallie for a train ride a couple weekends ago.  It was so fun and surprisingly relaxing.  We took the morning train from Elbe out to Mineral Lake, the website said there were easy hikes around the lake so we decided to spend the afternoon there, picnic and then return on a later train.  Well they weren't kidding when the said easy, not only were they SUPER easy they were SUPER short.  We hiked all of the trails to be hiked in a matter of 30 minutes- and that was with 2 toddlers one of whom we've nicknamed Captain Distracto.  Needless to say, we had lots of time to spare, but we greatly enjoyed it, we picnicked, walked to a local convenience store, played by the lake, and did all kinds of other random things.  Have I mentioned it was a fun afternoon?! Cause it was. :)

Micah now knows all of the "correct" steam train noises and constantly makes them now. 

Enthralled...

He loved every minute!

Hallie liked it as well, but was a little more timid about the whole situation.

Complete with the Conductor punching our tickets.

Playing while waiting...

Captain Distracto at her finest, waving a stick or some random thing!

The awesome BBQ, we will definitely sign up for the BBQ next time, it looked delicious!

We found out from the BBQ man that the steam train had broke down so they used the diesel engine on our way back.  We were busy checking the engine out and right as we were walking past the engine with Hallie the riders in the engine blew the whistle, it scared her so bad which led to her crying screaming.  And not just once, but 3 times! She still talks about the diesel engine whistle scaring her.

Micah enjoying the view on the way back

After being scared so badly, Hallie cuddled with me the entire way back and fell asleep while eating her crackers.  Micah pretended to sleep. :)

That pesky cloud blocked our view of the Mountain, but we'll be back again to give it another shot!