Some friendships start at school, work, or through mutual friends. But this one? It started with a text sent to the wrong number—and eight years later, it’s a heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition that the internet can’t get enough of.
Back in 2016, Wanda Dench from Arizona meant to invite her grandson over for Thanksgiving. But instead of texting him, she accidentally sent the message to 17-year-old Jamal Hinton. Instead of ignoring the mistake, Jamal asked, “Can I still get a plate?” Wanda, proving she was the ultimate grandma, replied, “Of course, you can. That’s what grandmas do… feed everyone.”
That’s a wrap on Thanksgiving year 8! Thankful for the connections we made hosting our first @airbnb guest 🧡 https://t.co/2coDf1tfBQ pic.twitter.com/RhvkU15dGH
— Jamal Hinton (@Jamalhinton12) November 22, 2023
That one mix-up turned into something magical. Every year since, Jamal and Wanda have celebrated Thanksgiving together, sharing their story with the world. And this year, in 2023, they kept the tradition going for the eighth time—this time with a new guest.
A Thanksgiving With a Twist
On Thanksgiving Day, Jamal, now 24, posted a photo standing beside 66-year-old Wanda, keeping their tradition alive. But this time, they welcomed a new friend, Arseni, into their holiday gathering.
“That’s a wrap on Thanksgiving year 8! Thankful for the connections we made hosting our first @airbnb guest,” Jamal wrote on Twitter.
Thanks to an Airbnb promotion, Wanda and Jamal had invited Arseni to stay at Wanda’s home in Prescott, Arizona, and join in on the festivities. Their Instagram post read:
“Our year 8 selfie. Thanks for staying with us, Arseni, and for being part of the good in the world this holiday season. #airbnbpartner”
The Internet’s Favorite Tradition
Year after year, people eagerly wait for their annual Thanksgiving update, and the comment section was filled with love.
“Every year, the universe heals itself in many ways. This is one of them,” one person wrote.
“Imagine that one accidental text bringing two people together like this,” another commented.
Others begged them to keep the tradition going:
“If there’s one thing I look forward to every year, it’s this.”
“I love this so much. It gives me hope in humanity.”
More Than Just a Meal
But Wanda and Jamal’s friendship goes beyond Thanksgiving dinner. Over the years, they’ve made unforgettable memories together—visiting a pumpkin patch, watching the Super Bowl, and even appearing on a game show.
This year, they took things a step further by offering a one-night Airbnb stay for $16—a tribute to the year their tradition began.
“I think it’s perfect,” Jamal told People earlier this month. “I love meeting new people and building new friendships.”
For Jamal, this tradition isn’t just about a meal—it’s about connection.
“It’s amazing to meet someone new, but getting to actually sit down and talk for a full day, with no media or distractions, that’s how real friendships are made,” he shared. “Kind of like me and Wanda.”
One accidental text. One simple act of kindness. Eight years of friendship. And, if the internet has its way, many more to come.
We’ll be here, waiting for next year’s update. ❤️
