Magical Train Ride

We researched our options for getting from LA to San Francisco and decided on the train. The thought of making the kids sit in car seats for seven hours (at least) just didn't sound fun. The adventure of riding on the train was very alluring. The train ride is GORGEOUS. The first half is along the coast and the second half is through stunning mountains in Northern California. We made the most of the experience -- had lunch in the dining car, worked on brackets, letter challenges, played with dolls, read books (I even got to read a FULL Atlantic magazine - the title article about NOT overprotecting our children), and most importantly - Mark and I stared and swapped ideas about what the "story" was behind some of our co-riders. Better than reality TV.