American Christmas

　　　　In Japan, Christmas is seen as a “couples’ day” and perhaps people may exchange presents, but it is not thought of as a major holiday like in America. Christmas is a very important day for many people in America for many different reasons, and although I cannot speak for everyone, I will tell you about how I spend my typical Christmas holiday in America.
　　　　One of the major differences between Christmas in America and Japan is, in America, Christmas is a very important religious holiday for Christians. For Christians, the Christmas season actually begins at the beginning of December with the tradition of Advent. During Advent, we read stories from the Bible in church about the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. Of course, my family also celebrates non-Christian traditions during this time such as decorating our Christmas tree, putting lights around the outside of our house, singing Christmas songs, and drinking eggnog. In addition, every year we send dozens of Christmas cards to our family members all over the world.
　　　　On Christmas day, my family begins the day by going to church. After church, we eat a big breakfast that my father cooks, usually eggs, bacon and pancakes, and we open presents. Then, I normally visit my friends who live close by, and after a couple hours, I return home to help my mother cook our big Christmas dinner. Our Christmas dinner is very similar to our Thanksgiving dinner. We normally begin dinner early, around 5:00 p.m., and we eat turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and for dessert, pie. Afterwards, we relax and talk, visit more friends, or watch a Christmas movie on TV.
　　　　Although this is only my example of how my family spends the holiday season, an idea that everyone shares is that the holiday season is a time to spend time with loved ones and to give happiness to others. So, have a Merry Christmas everyone, and a Happy New Year!
-Alissa