without borders: Romantic Texas Weekend

Yes, it was as romantic as it sounds.

We went on the road again to visit some of Austin's family in Amarillo, Texas, about 4 hours east of ABQ. Austin's cousin Cary and his wife Jennifer live in Amarillo with their two kids, Katelyn and Tommy. Austin's grandmother and his Aunt Susie were staying there to help take care of the kids while Jennifer recovered from surgery. It had been a while since we had seen these folks (like, before Austin and I were engaged) and we had a great time catching up.

But first, I had a Valentine's surprise planned for Austin on Friday night. I was just giddy about this goofy surprise. While searching for a place for dinner, I knew this was the perfect fit for a romantic dinner:

The Big Texan Steakhouse Ranch, in all of its glory

This tourist trap was just so much fun: limo service to and from our hotel, live music, great beer, and a stage where you could watch people attempt to eat a 72oz steak dinner in an hour. Only in Texas, ya'll.

When in Amarillo

The next day we visited some sites on the Panhandle, including the Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon.

Melton Clan 4 lyfe

Austin's grandmother is just the sweetest. I don't know how so much sweetness is packed into such a tiny lady. She and her twin, Evelyn both completed nursing school in the 1940s and Grandmother Vera remains a caregiver to her family at age 87. She teaches her family how to love God and love people, even when times are hard. She is just amazing, and I'm so grateful for the time spent with her.