12/22/13
Today I went with my host dad to buy a Christmas tree. I have never gone Christmas tree shopping before so this process is all new to me. I have only seen families buy the tree in movies in America. Before we bought the tree though, we had to clean the house. We cleaned all weekend in preparation for Christmas. Agata and I had to scrub the kitchen cabinets with soap and water. The curtains had to be washed too. Every surface had to be spotless. After cleaning my mama went around inspecting our work to approve or tell us to clean again. It was a lot of tedious work but I guess our house was very dirty. The cabinets did look so much whiter after they were scrubbed though. This process of cleaning is done before Christmas and before Easter. It is all part of their traditions.
My dad and I searched Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for the perfect tree. Finally on Sunday morning at 9am we saw a nice, big tree. We checked a few stores but found ours through a private seller. Once the tree was wrapped, we laid it on the roof of the car. My dad used long rubber wires and electrical wire to tie it down. He tied it down really tight to the roof while I stayed out of his way. Usually Ula helps my dad buy the tree but this year it was my turn to help.
When we arrived home with the Christmas tree, my mama came outside pleased with our pick. Christmas time is finally coming and this year it feels like actual Christmas to me. I have never had a tree, or decorations, or a true Christmas celebration. It is a season of happiness and new experiences.
Stephanie Raquel
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