Nice time between family and friends
Christmas in Sardinia is always magical for me and my daughter, Emily. We spent again the holidays in Carbonia, our hometown in southern Sardinia, with family and friends.
The town looked sweet during Christmas. Lights went up (were put in place) in the streets, and a big Christmas tree stood in the main square. Emily and I loved walking through the market together. We picked out (chose) decorations, sweets, and small gifts for our loved ones. The air was filled with the delicious smell of roasted chestnuts and traditional Sardinian treats.
The memories of my childhood were so vivid: on Christmas Eve, I used to help out (assisted) in the kitchen. We prepared culurgiones (stuffed pasta) and sebadas (fried pastries with honey). It was fun cooking together and learning family recipes. I used to go to the midnight mass sometimes. The church used to be full of people singing Christmas carols, and the atmosphere used to be warm and joyful.
On Christmas Eve, this time, Emily and I went to bed thinking of how many gifts Santa would bring under the Christmas tree. Emily could hardly wait to open up (unwrap) her presents the next morning.
On Christmas Day, we gathered with family for a big meal. We enjoyed Sardinian specialties like roasted lamb and pane carasau (thin bread). I shared stories about my childhood Christmases and Emily listened with excitement.
We also met some friends of ours and their children attending a concert together in Carbonia’s main square. The municipality organized some amazing activities for children and we spent some fun time playing and listening to music surrounded by a lot of families with their children. After all, Christmas is a celebration that captivates both young and old alike.
Spending this time with my daughter, the rest of the family and my friends made me feel grateful and happy.
This Christmas in Carbonia was full of love. Emily and I will always cherish these memories.
Travel tips
After Christmas, we went to greet our friends at the Coal Museum in Carbonia, the Grande Miniera di Serbariu Museum, a significant historical site that offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial and mining heritage. If you decide to spend some time in Sardinia, you can’t miss the opportunity to experience this amazing place.
Upon arrival, you’ll be introduced to the historical importance of the site, which was a key coal mine during its peak in the 20th century. The guide will provide a brief overview of its establishment in 1937 under the Italian Fascist regime and its pivotal role during World War II and post-war reconstruction.
The Museum and Exhibition Area, the Museo del Carbone (Coal Museum), is housed within the mining complex. The exhibition includes original tools, machinery, and photographs that depict the life of miners and the technological advancements of the time. Here, you’ll learn about the challenging working conditions and the socio-economic impact of the mining industry on the region.
But the best part of your stay will be the underground tour: a short descent into a section of the original tunnels provides a hands-on experience of what life was like for miners.The tunnels have been preserved and equipped to safely showcase the mining operations, including the drilling and transportation of coal. Interactive displays and anecdotes from guides bring the history to life.
Don’t miss this wonderful corner of Sardinia! Visit their website and book a visit: Museo del Carbone – Grande Miniera di Serbariu (www.museodelcarbone.it)
Vocabulary corner: Phrasal Verbs
Some useful phrasal verbs from the text
Go up: to be placed or installed.
Pick out: to choose something.
Help out: to assist someone with a task.
Open up: to unwrap or reveal something.
Check out: to visit or look at something interesting.
to be continued…
Your English Teacher 
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