Dear Fam ... Love, Littlest
To my big, Gabby; my grand big, Lilly; and my great-grand big, Allison:
I remember the first time I met Gabby during day two of recruitment. We instantly clicked talking about being math majors and the other random things you talk about. It’s funny, because when all the recruitment counselors were hollering at us PMNs as we left the Alpha Xi house to write down notes, I chose to write down “GABBY!” because she was one of the most memorable things about Alpha Xi. When I decided to rush Alpha Xi Delta, I was so excited to see Gabby again. I was nervous for bid day, yet when I ran home, Gabby was my bid-day buddy!
At the time, I didn’t realize how big of an influence Gabby would become, but as time went on, she became more and more important to me, and I knew I wanted her to be my big.
It wasn’t until big/little reveal that I had the pleasure of meeting you, Lilly and Allison. You guys didn’t choose me to be a part of your family– that’s what Gabby did– but you accepted me with open arms nonetheless. While other fam’s had cute costumes, we dressed up as bananas, and I could not have been more thrilled about it. You both instantly made me feel so warm and welcomed in our giant banana costumes. We all went to Jeni’s Ice Cream (except Allison because she had to study for a test) and I had so much fun getting to know you all even better!
I am forever grateful that Gabby is not only my big, but that you all have become my family. You guys have become my home away from home. I love our monthly fam dinners, where we always somehow get Mexican food. I love our banana fam group chat and playing intramurals together. I am so appreciative of how close we all have become. You have all poured such wisdom, knowledge, and kindness into me.
From Gabby always being my biggest hype man and supporter, to Lilly providing me comfort during tough times and always extending me an AEPI invite, to Allison making me laugh atrociously during Chapter, you have all been here for me in so many different ways. You have helped shape me into the person I am today.
I couldn’t be more thankful to be a part of this family, and I want you guys to know that I love you all so much. Banana fam forever!