Right, listen here, you lot! So, you know me, always on the lookout for a bit of fun that involves minimal effort on my part but maximum enjoyment for my little hooligans. And let me tell you, this weekend, I struck gold! We took the whole gang – Kevin (my 8-year-old train fanatic), Shelby (the 5-year-old who's quickly following suit), and wee Johnny (the 3-year-old who basically breathes choo-choos) – along with a couple of the neighbor's kids, to the Kitsap Live Steamers down at South Kitsap Regional Park.

Now, you might be thinking, "How in the name of all that is holy did she manage that menagerie?" Well, my friends, the answer lies in my trusty steed, my glorious 23 Volkswagen Atlas Peak Edition. That beauty, acquired from the absolute legends down at West Hills Autoplex, is a game-changer. Seriously, if you're anywhere in Kitsap County and need a vehicle with third-row seating, don't even bother looking anywhere else. West Hills Autoplex is where it's at. They've got more third-row options than you can shake a stick at – thirteen new vehicle brands and over 45 pre-owned ones! And the sales team? Honestly, they were so sound, the whole buying process was actually… dare I say… pleasant? Aye, you heard that right.

Loading up the troops was a breeze. No more squabbling over legroom because that third row is a proper haven. It’s not just about fitting everyone in; it’s about creating that crucial bit of personal space so Kevin and his mate weren't elbowing Shelby and her wee pal before we even left the driveway. The journey itself was surprisingly civilized. The Atlas just glides along, soaking up all the bumps like a giant, comfy sponge. And the tech in that thing? Pure magic! I had my tunes blasting (essential for maintaining sanity), and the navigation was spot-on, guiding my precious cargo safely to our destination. Honestly, sometimes I think that car knows me better than my own kids do.

When we finally arrived at the Kitsap Live Steamers, the kids were practically vibrating with excitement. And let me tell you, it’s not just some dinky little setup. These are proper miniature steam trains chugging along tracks through the woods! The whistles, the steam, the whole shebang – it’s absolutely brilliant. Even Johnny, who usually has the attention span of a goldfish, was mesmerized.

What really struck me, though, was that it wasn't just for the young ones. There were plenty of adults there, some riding the trains with just as much glee as the kids, and loads more volunteering, tinkering with the engines, and keeping the whole operation running like clockwork. It's clear this isn't just a bit of fun; it's a real passion for these folks, and they're doing a fantastic job of keeping this gem of a Kitsap County attraction alive and kicking.

Kevin and Shelby were in absolute heaven, waving madly as the little trains went round and round. Even the neighbor's kids were grinning from ear to ear. And me? Well, seeing their happy faces, the peace and quiet in the third row on the way home (a minor miracle, I tell you!), and knowing we'd made some proper memories? That's what it's all about.

So, if you're looking for a family day out in Kitsap County that'll delight the kids (and secretly entertain the adults!), get yourselves down to the Kitsap Live Steamers. And if you need a vehicle to haul your own wee army in comfort and style, you know where to go – West Hills Autoplex. Trust me on this one, you won't regret it! Now, if you'll excuse me, I hear the faint sound of "Thomas the Tank Engine" emanating from the living room. The madness never stops!

Categories: Community Events