Unit 1　Festivals around the world

　　在美国为了表达对父母的尊敬和爱戴专门设立了母亲节和父亲节。

　　People in the United States honor their parents with two special days：Mother's Day，on the second Sunday in May，and Father's Day，on the third Sunday in June.These days are set aside to show love and respect for parents.They raise their children and educate them to be responsible citizens.They give love and care.These two days make us think about the changing roles of mothers and fathers.More mothers now work outside the home.More fathers must help with childcare.

　　These two special days are celebrated in many different ways.On Mother's Day people wear carnations.A red one symbolizes a living mother.Families get together at home，as well as in restaurants.They often have outdoor barbecues for Father's Day.These are days of fun and good feelings and memories.

　　Another tradition is to give cards and gifts.Children make them in school.Many people make their own presents.These are valued more than the ones bought in stores.It is not the value of the gift

　　that is important，but it is the thought that counts.Greeting card stores，florists，candy makers，bakeries，telephone companies，and other stores do a lot of business during these holidays.

1．set aside　　　　 留出；拨出(尤指金钱、时间等)