In Nettavisen’s annual Christmas column, well-known Norwegian personalities talk about their plans for Christmas, the holiday traditions they can’t do without, and not least what expectations they have for the coming year. From us to you – MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Handball star Camilla Herrem (38) reflects on a year of grate success on the handball court and yet another gold medal for her collection, and is now looking forward to a lovely Christmas celebration with her family.
SUCCESS: Camilla Herrem and the handball girls could celebrate Olympic gold earlier this year.
Photo: Stian Lysberg Solum (NTB)
How and with whom are you celebrating Christmas this year?
– I will celebrate at my mom’s house with the entire family. We will be a good group of 17 people.
what do you eat on Christmas Eve?
– Mom makes pork rib and beef roast with the world’s best brown sauce.
What are your Christmas traditions?
– The tradition we have the “night” before Christmas Eve is that Theo and I sleep in the living room (Noah hasn’t been part of this yet, but he will), then Santa comes to visit, eats the gingerbread cookies and the milk we put out, and delivers some gifts under the tree. So we have to pretend to be asleep so Santa doesn’t see that we’re watching him.
What is your best Christmas memory?
– I have so many good memories, but I love waking up on Christmas Eve morning, coming down to the living room with all the lights and decorations, and just turning on the TV to watch Disney.
what is your worst Christmas memory?
– My worst Christmas memory was probably when our family dog,Nabiche,became acutely ill on december 23rd,and we had to put her down that day.
What is the best or worst Christmas gift you have received or given?
– I have received many great Christmas gifts, and I feel I do well in giving a good gift to the most crucial people in my life. I try to give something that I know they will be happy for and maybe don’t expect.
SATISFIED: Camilla Herrem looks back on a good 2024 and is excited to see what the next year will bring.
photo: NTB
Do you have a Christmas activity to recommend?
– I and Tassen (a friend) usually train on Christmas Eve, partly to chat a bit and get some exercise. Or else, we have different games on Christmas Eve. Gift games, quizzes, and we have had various games suitable for everyone.
Red or brown christmas soda?
– Brown, without a doubt.
What is your favorite Christmas song?
– “Driving Home for Christmas”.
How will you celebrate New Year’s Eve?
– We are traveling to Trondheim to celebrate New Year with Steffen’s family.
How woudl you summarize 2024?
– 2024 has been a busy year. A lot has happened, I have experienced so much both on and off the court. The Olympic gold was one of the highlights, and losing Lykke was the hardest part.
– I have experienced a lot with my family and love all the time I spend with them. Just spending time with the people who mean the most to me in life gives me so much energy and strength, and I can’t put into words how much those people mean to me.
What is your biggest wish before 2025?
– My biggest wish for 2025 is that we continue to create incredible memories together with family and friends, that we keep developing as a person and handball player. I am looking forward to the coming year.
What are your plans for the next year?
– My plans are to take a very good and well-deserved Christmas break, first and foremost. Spend a lot of time at home without having a plan to follow. Then we’ll just have to see what the year brings, but one thing is without a doubt, I am really looking forward to the new year.
How does Camilla Herrem celebrate the holiday season with her family?
Time.news Interview: Camilla Herrem’s Christmas Reflections
Editor: Welcome,everyone,to our special Christmas edition where we bring you insights from remarkable personalities. Today, we have the honor of speaking with handball legend Camilla Herrem. Thank you for joining us, Camilla!
Camilla Herrem: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to celebrate the holiday spirit and share my thoughts.
Editor: First off, congratulations on yet another gold medal this year! What has been the key to your success on the court?
Camilla herrem: Thank you! I think it comes down to hard work, determination, and an incredible team.Together, we push each other to excel, and I’m grateful for the support we share. Each victory is a testament to our collective effort.
Editor: That’s inspiring! Now that the competitive season is coming to an end, how do you plan to celebrate Christmas with your family?
Camilla Herrem: Christmas is a special time for my family and me. We always come together to enjoy conventional Norwegian dishes and spend time reminiscing. I love the cozy atmosphere and the opportunity to recharge after a busy year.
Editor: That sounds lovely! are there any specific Christmas traditions that your family can’t do without?
Camilla Herrem: Absolutely! One tradition we cherish is decorating the Christmas tree together. It brings everyone together, and each ornament has a story attached to it. We also look forward to making gingerbread cookies—it’s a fun way to create memories and enjoy some delicious treats!
Editor: Those personal touches really enhance the holiday spirit. As you look back on this year, what are your biggest hopes or expectations for the coming year?
Camilla Herrem: I hope to continue growing in my career, both personally and with the team. I also want to focus on mental well-being and staying balanced. Besides that, I’m excited about spending more quality time with loved ones and maybe even exploring some new hobbies.
Editor: All splendid goals! As we wrap up, what message would you like to share with your fans this Christmas?
Camilla Herrem: I’d like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Remember to cherish the moments you have with family and friends. Take time to reflect and rejoice in the blessings of the past year, and always strive for your dreams in the year ahead.
Editor: Thank you, Camilla, for sharing your thoughts with us today. Wishing you a peaceful and joyful Christmas!
Camilla Herrem: Thank you! Merry Christmas to everyone!