1. During recent years A photography has become a popular form of art
B. a lot of people have taken photographs of good paintings
C. photography has stopped being art
D. photographic exhibitions are often advertised​

Life today seems to be much better than 50 years ago. It became much easier to do many basic things. For example, people don't have to wash clothes without a washing machine. There is a microwave, a vacuum cleaner, a dishwasher, an electric cooker almost in every house. Modern technology has fully changed our lives to the better. Fifty years ago people couldn't even imagine that household chores would be done by smart appliances. To think only, they didn't know that computers would instantly send messages, take photos, or allow making video calls. Nobody had cell phones back then. On the one hand, it might have been difficult to live without these gadgets. On the other hand, children were much happier without cell phones and hand-held computers. My grandparents often tell me about their childhood and youth. They say it was a happy time and people were different.People of their generation weren't commercially-minded at all. Our generation lives at the era of consumerism. We don’t value things and clothes that much. When we break or spoil something, we go to the store and easily buy a new one. My grandmother tells that she could wear the same pair of shoes for ten years and more, while I want to buy new shoes almost every season. Women’s rights have also been modified. Fifty years ago they were supposed to be diligent housewives. Today women are seen at many high positions. They can be leading lawyers, politicians, financiers, top managers and superintendants. Another modern step forward is the development of travel opportunities. It has become faster, cheaper and more convenient to travel from one country to another. It is beneficial nearly for everyone: international students, curious adults, international commerce and trade, etc.

Dear Arnold,

Thank you for your letter! It was interesting to read about your Christmas celebration and your resolutions.

We celebrate X-mas too, on January 7th. I usually celebrate it with my parents and grandparents at my grandparents' house in the country. But as for my last X-mas and school holidays I spent them at home. I don't make any resolutions but I think it is a good idea and I will make some resolutions next year.

It's great to hear that you are going to visit the USA. What part of the US are you going to visit? Who are you going with? How long are you going to be there?

I'll be looking forward to your letter telling about your journey.

Best wishes,

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