Christmas with your colleague
Christmas with your colleague: Amalie Wiben
Meet Amalie Wiben, PhD student at DaCHE – Danish Centre for Health Economics, Department of Public Health
Can you tell from your office that Christmas is approaching?
No, I haven’t had the chance to do anything festive this year. I just submitted my PhD thesis today, so decorating wasn’t a priority. Luckily, my wonderful colleagues have been busy spreading Christmas cheer throughout the department.
(And yes, we’ve made sure to capture photographic evidence of Amalie’s undecorated office. Editor.)
Is there anything or anyone that lifts your Christmas spirit at work?
Strolling around the university and admiring the decorations people have put up is always a delight.
Some offices also have Christmas music playing on the radio, which really enhances the festive atmosphere.
How are you celebrating Christmas this year?
This year, my family and I have decided to head for warmer climates, where we’re hoping to spend our holiday by the pool, enjoying plenty of quality time and relaxation.
Do you or your family have any special Christmas traditions?
We have a few cherished traditions. On the 23rd, we always have "Risengrød" for dinner. On the 24th, we take a long walk together, and on the 25th, there’s the much-anticipated family Christmas lunch. It will definitely feel strange to miss out on all of that this year.
Last year, an elf moved into our house, much to our daughters’ delight, and luckily, he’s returned this year. Watching their excitement and joy as they wonder what the elf might do next has become my favourite new tradition.
What’s on your menu for Christmas Eve?
When we celebrate a traditional Christmas in Denmark, we enjoy duck and sausage served with caramelised potatoes, plain potatoes, rich gravy, and red cabbage. For dessert, we have rice porridge (risalamande) with a whole almond hidden inside, accompanied by the excitement of the almond gift.
This year, we honestly have no clue what the menu will be in the sunny south. My only plan is to kick back and fully relax!
Do you have a favourite Christmas recipe to share?
I’m not much of a baker myself, but you should definitely ask Karen Søgaard (Professor at Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics. Editor) - her gingerbread biscuits are absolutely fantastic!
What’s your favourite Christmas film or song?
'Home Alone' is a timeless classic. I still find it brilliant, even though it’s been around for quite a while.