by Citlali, age 8 from Oaxaca, Mexico, asks Santa about paper mache decorations, the region’s mountains, and the alebrijes folk art tradition.
Dear Santa, my name is Citlali, and I am eight years old. I live in Oaxaca, Mexico, where my abuela says our region has strong roots going back to the ancient Zapotec people.
Dear Citlali, a region with roots that deep deserves a very respectful flyover, your abuela picked a truly storied hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Is there a paper mache Santa? My tio makes colorful paper mache animals and wants to try one of you next.
There certainly are paper mache versions of me out there, Citlali, and your tio’s colorful animal creations sound like exactly the right skill set for the job. I would be honored to be his next creation.
My abuela says Oaxaca is a really mountainous region in southern Mexico. Is that true?
It is true, Citlali, Oaxaca’s landscape is dramatically mountainous, tucked into the southern part of the country. I always enjoy that rugged, beautiful terrain on my way to your rooftop.
My abuela says our region is famous for colorful paper mache and wood folk art creatures called alebrijes. Is that true?
It is true, Citlali, alebrijes are a beloved Oaxacan tradition, brightly painted creatures crafted with incredible imagination and skill. That kind of creative, colorful artistry is really something worth celebrating, Christmas and every day after.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Citlali Ramirez
Oaxaca, Mexico
P.S. Will you send my tio a photo when his Santa creation is finished?
I would love nothing more, Citlali, good craftsmanship deserves proper admiration.
