Madeleine Sami

Are you cooking the Christmas feast this year?

Ha! I don’t think I am. We’re having a big family one this year. I supervised last year and it was streeeeeessssful! I did a big leg of lamb and we did turkey on the barbie. Fruit cake’s not for everyone. What are your thoughts – is there better Christmas baking? There’s only one Christmas cake I love and it was my grandma’s. She passed away but the recipe is in the family and we guard it with our lives. It’s not as dense as a traditional cake and it can last in a tin in your cupboard for decades. Have you already bought your presents or will you be tearing around on Christmas Eve? We’re doing Secret Santa, which I love because it takes the stress out. In saying that, I probably will leave it to the last minute to get my Secret Santa because I’m useless and disorganised.

What’s the best and worst present you ever received?

Best present was a pink American football when I was eight. I have no idea why I loved it so much. I don’t think I’ve had a bummer of a present. Maybe soaps? If someone buys you soap, it means they don’t love you. What’s your favourite childhood Christmas memory? Getting to open a present after going to midnight mass.

What’s the best thing about Christmas for you?

Hanging with the whanau.

Will you be making any

New Year’s resolutions?

Yes. Do all the things. Have fun. Get abs.