Unlike Halloween or Thanksgiving, Christmas is just as popular here as it is in the United States. The traditions are the same and Cagliari is lit up with Christmas lights. Santa is called 'Babbo Natale', or Father Christmas. They do decorate trees but the trees are nearly always plastic because pine trees don't grow in Sardinia. We exchange gifts on Christmas and go to Christmas morning mass. Italians do Christmas shopping just like Americans, pushing and shoving in stores to buy gifts for their families. This is a hard time of the year for me, as I have to be away from my family for Christmas and New Year's, but at least the traditions are the same. I feel a little more at home this way.
I was thinking of you the other day because my 1 yr. old son's new favorite song is "Dominick the Christmas Donkey". Makes me laugh. I'm sure it will be tough for you to be away, but glad to hear that similar traditions will make you feel like you're closer to home. I'll have to get your address so I can send a card- although it may not get there by Christmas. Maybe I'll just have to send you another RAT to your home in Rapid so your mother can care for it until you return. ;) Merry Christmas, Casey!!
ReplyDeleteCasey, "Dominick the Christmas Donkey?!" Who'd have thought?! I think that's my cousin Paul's favorite too! This may become a favorite for you and your Mom as well! Miss you super-big, buddy! I love you! Merry Christmas! Love, Aunt Eileen
ReplyDeleteYeah- those poor Italians who can't ice skate and play hockey because Italians are known for their weak ankles- Oh Paul- you crack me up!
ReplyDeleteHope you had a Merry Christmas, Casey! I'll look forward to hearing about it. I suppose you heard that you missed out on a big blizzard here at home! We're now halfway through our vacation time. As always, it's going way too fast! Happy New Year!
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