To my big fat ethnic family:

Growing up, I always thought my big Lebanese-American family was the normal family life. Between the enormous dinner spreads, shouting for talking and being constantly pinched and squeezed, I thought everyone lived this crazy life. I was wrong when I stayed with a friend who did not come from a big a family. When I was younger, I never really became fully aware of how special coming from a large family was. After a little bit of growing up and a lot of love, I have realized how lucky I truly am. So here are a few things I am thankful for my big fat ethnic family.

Thank you for embarrassing me.

Through the years and the boys I've brought home, thank you for telling them my weird nicknames, thank you for putting a little fear into them and thank you for making fun of me with them. You've made me tougher.

Thank you for supporting me.

I know I can always count on you to show up to all my extracurriculars, share all my articles and be there whenever I need you. Even if it is a herd of crazy screaming people.

Thank for you teaching me.

Our family has a lot of weird traditions, and things that I would of never known in life if it wasn't for you. Like how hummus goes well with anything, and that everything can fixed by your cousin.

Thank you for being you.

I am a very lucky girl to have been born into this family. I wouldn't trade my big fat family for anyone or anything. Through loss and love, I have became the woman I am today because of you. I can't wait to watch our family grow, and to add on to our crazy clan.

P.S: I promise to never bring home a guy who doesn't eat meat.

(Just kidding.)

Love always,

Lexie