person A: My friend couldn't make it for Thanksgiving last year. My family and I felt let down about it.
person B: Sometimes things come up. It's hard to travel during the holidays. Especially if your friend has kids.
person A: That's true and although I do understand his reasons_comma_ it didn't change how deflated we felt about it. We really looked forward to their visit.
person B: Maybe this year will be different.
person A: Let's hope. It'll be nice to see him and his family.