I didn't think I'd get a chance to make it home for Christmas. And just like that, I was switching jobs and had a week of no work, school or responsibilities. Unfortunately, this change in circumstances affected only my schedule, not Mandy's. But she graciously agreed that I should capitalize on this opportunity and go home...to surprise my family. We got the tickets and didn't say a word. I carefully checked with my entire family and except for my brother Steven, everyone had the week off. I flew into Detroit where I eventually called and woke up my dad to tell him to be at the airport in an hour. Well, make that 8 hours...the fog is pretty bad in Detroit. Dad only told Christina about my arrival and we went and surprised Mom at work. She had the best reaction when she saw me. During the week I painted the town with mom and dad (and ate a Mighty Mort at Zuppa), beat Dave in the Lord of the Rings (the dorkier but still fun version) of Risk, met my new niece Sofia, roller skated with Will and Molly, played poker with the boys (and slept it off at Maria's) and BBQed with dad. I was pretty tired, like usual on these trips, but I got to see everyone and had a great time. When it was time to go home and ring in the New Year with Mandy the fog got in the way again and so I rung in the new year with Mom, Dad and Dave at Dave's house. The only girls I got to smooch were my mom and my little niece Elizabeth. It could have been worse! Thanks for the warm welcome home Rossi's. We'll see you next year!
