As we have done so many times over the past 10 years, we flew back to Kansas City on Christmas Day to spend time with the family. Mostly we sit around and play with the girls. On Wednesday, we decided to visit historic Union Station in Kansas City to see their Holiday Reflection exhibit. Like many other train stations throughout the country, Kansas City Union Station had fallen into disrepair in the 70s and 80s, until a bi-state tax initiative restored it. Now it’s a science museum and venue for all kinds of exhibits and shows. The main ticketing area is huge and reminds me of Grand Central in NYC. The holiday exhibit is housed in the old waiting area that traverses the tracks below. There’s still an Amtrak station in use off to the side and passengers embark through stairs (or an elevator) as they would have one hundred years ago.

I’m not one to brag, but our granddaughters are precious. Put them in a winter wonderland dedicated to kids and they light up the room. Every venue becomes a photo op, and we took plenty.

The focus of the entire room is the train ride. Originally housed in one of Kansas City’s local department stores, I rode this train over fifty years ago. Elizabeth barely fit under the measuring rod. Next year she may be too big. I’m glad she’s still little!!

Behind the train ride is a model train display with dozens of tracks and villages. The girls were enthralled as were their parents and grandparents.

Back in the main area we listened to singing reindeer and penguins, posed for our New Year’s kiss under the clock, and took the obligatory grandparent photo.

To finish the day, we walked the covered bridge (The Link) over to Crown Center, home of Hallmark Cards to play under the Mayor’s Christmas Tree at Santa’s Village. The weather was beautiful and kids of all ages were enjoying being outside!

I’m so glad to be teaching my children and grandchildren that adventures don’t need to be long or far away. It’s just the experience and the memories!!