As the Holidays are nearing the excitement is growing. People are putting up their Nativity scenes (pesebre)and decorating their houses and trees with lights and decorations. Food preparations are being made and the fireworks are being bought.
All over the world Christmas is celebrated differently. Being here in Paraguay, not only do I get to learn and experience about this style but I also get to learn about the cultures and styles of Christmas all around the world from the friends that I have made here.
In Paraguay, the usual activity starts on the 22nd of December. You wake up very early (4 or 5 am) and go to the 'salon' get your hair cut and mini styled, then the day starts. You will go to the supermarket and buy all of the fruit, veggies, meat, sodas and other drinks, and decorations for later in the week/ day. After going home you have to set up you nativity scene, all the decorations and begin to prepare the food which takes around 24 hours to fully cook and prepare for serving. They get little sleep in the 3 days before Christmas because of all the preparations and on Christmas the real party begins. There are fireworks, lots of food and people that come from all over the country to visit family and distant friends.
New Years is spent the same way. Everyone will go into the capital city though to watch the fireworks and to celebrate the New Year.
It has been a great experience so far and I can't wait to tell you about the rest of my Holidays.
Without snow - celebration is odd, but I can't say that I miss having to put on 20 layers of clothes before I step outside.. I'm loving the idea of wearing shorts and a tank top all the time - no matter what the season is (Summer just officially started yesterday).
Peace & Love always,
Vivian
Monday, December 21, 2009
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