Late fall life and friends in Sylva

Phew, time for a catch-up!!

First, here we go, off on the Polar Express! In nearby Bryson City is the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad train, and in the winter they offer a special Christmastime ride themed after the book, The Polar Express. One weeknight they offered free tickets to locals for their "dress rehearsal" so I took the boys with a big group of friends/connections for the 90 minute ride. There was music, dancing by the crew, chocolate chip cookies, a reading of the book, and a stop from Santa to hand out a bell to each child along the way of the 6 mile journey. The boys enjoyed it and had fun wearing their pajamas (but we were all hungry for supper by the end!). I didn't get any photos of the train because the light was too sharp in the afternoon, and pitch black by the end of the ride.

With Isaac and Luke, about ready to disembark

Just a morning drumming session

More of Timo's creations/villages... I'm always amazed at how he continues to enjoy the same cars and Legos, day after day, coming up with new scenarios and - even more so now - stories and dialogue.

"Mattias, here, I can read you this book", said Timo

Beautiful fall colors here this season! Even just walking down the driveway! At least, when we could enjoy them through the smoke of all the nearby forest fires. It was SO dry for 6+ months and we were in drought conditions, until finally rain returned at the end of November. Some days we didn't go outside because the smoke was so heavy. We feel very fortunate not to have been closer to the fires and needing to evacuate, though we could see the billowing smoke.

Timo and his buddy, Amos, on a Saturday walk through the woods

Look, downtown Sylva goes crazy with Christmas decorations!! Something new we have learned and now love about this little down. The hill in front of the courthouse/library (seen below) and the four blocks of Main St are all decorated with lights and greenery and ribbon.

It's chilly, but we bundle up anyway! Timo, I think you're getting a bit tall for the stroller...

Look at this great kitchen helper, who volunteered to clear the table and rinse all the dishes after dinner one night. I think he gets it from his Dad!!