Thanksgiving

As of late, Erin has been somewhat dormant in her blogging. I thought I would break the silence and post about our Thanksgiving. I do this because it was a special one for me as we traveled to Arizona and we were able to spend time with not only my family, but also my two Grandmothers. It was the first time that they (and my Aunt Diane) were able to meet Scarlett. I am grateful that she was able to meet her Great Grandmothers even though she will not remember the event. I am thankful for my family. Especially my patient wife who puts up with my wild ideas to drive from Houston to Phoenix in one day. I want her to know how special that holiday was for me and I am grateful for all her efforts.

Four generations of Ross/Hinman

I do have to share the best experience from the trip. We did not tell my family we were coming for Thanksgiving with the exception of my brother and sister-in-law. Hence, as the holiday approached, we secretly stayed at my brother's house where dinner would be hosted. As my parents arrived, we gave Scarlett to my sister-in-law and the rest of us hid. As my parents and Grandma Ross entered the house, they causally walked by Amy and Scarlett. They looked at Scarlett, my Grandma wondered why Amy had dressed her son Jonathon in girl clothes, and my parents assumed Amy was just tending a friend's child. So, Amy played the part. I could not believe it. As jackets were shed and people made themselves comfortable, the rest of us emerged questioning, "how could you not recognize their only grand-daughter"?! The look on their faces was beyond memorable. My mother was in complete shock as she turned bright red. My dad smiled in his "Robert got us again" way, and my Grandma Ross sweetly came and gave us all hugs. As the rest of my family arrived we took turns answering the door to partake in the stunned look on faces as the unexpected visitors greeted them. Classic experiences that made the trip completely worth it--at least in my opinion.