The Princess of Wales was joined by family and friends at Westminster Abbey in the late afternoon for the second annual 'Together at Christmas' carol service.
Kate arrived at the Abbey first, before William brought George and Charlotte after school.
Last year, Kate hosted the inaugural service to pay tribute to the incredible work of individuals and organisations across the UK who have supported their communities through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The then Duchess of Cambridge was regal in a red Catherine Walker coatdress with distinctive bow detail and the Queen Mother's sapphire and diamond fringe earrings. When the concert aired on Christmas Eve, there was a surprise in store with Kate playing the piano.
The Princess greeting William and the children upon their arrival.
A video.
HRH The Princess of Wales greets HRH The Prince of Wales, Prince George and Princess Charlotte as they arrive at Westminster Abbey for tonight’s carol service. #RoyalCarols #TogetherAtChristmas pic.twitter.com/ZIbODw3ua5
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) December 15, 2022
It is a real treat for royal watchers and the carol service has become a staple in Kate's diary. It's very much a family affair and an ideal occasion to include the children who are no doubt excitedly looking forward to almost a month off school beginning tomorrow.
Their Majesties the King and Queen Consort arriving. Charles and Camilla have undertaken a rigorous programme of engagements since Her late Majesty's passing. It's terrific they were both able to attend today and a lovely show of support for Kate.
HM The King and HM The Queen Consort arrive at Westminster Abbey ahead of The Royal Carols: Together at Christmas service. ⁰ #RoyalCarols #TogetherAtChristmas pic.twitter.com/BpTOJD2eh7
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) December 15, 2022
The Queen Consort in winter white.
There was a huge gathering of family members. Below, Kate's parents Michael and Carole Middleton with Pippa and James Matthews and Zara Tindall led by the Waleses' equerry, Rob Dixon.
The Countess of Wessex.
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi arrived hand in hand.
Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank.
A fabulous seasonal ensemble for Lady Gabriella Windsor.
Another outstanding look from Sophie Winkelman, Lady Frederick Windsor.
An always elegant Princess Alexandra.
Last night, KP shared a video of Kate adding finishing touches at the Abbey. The Princess wore her seasonal fair isle Holland Cooper sweater and Roland Mouret Axon trousers.
Final touches ahead of the #TogetherAtChristmas Carol Service tomorrow 🎄 pic.twitter.com/mixjI8d5TD
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) December 14, 2022
Westminster Abbey was transformed into a Winter Wonderland due to icy temperatures this week. How magical does this look?
A closer look at the beautiful invitations which were created by the immensely talented Aurelie Baudry Palmer.
A nod to the late Queen in the form of two corgis is one of many touches which made today so meaningful.
A date for your diary this December! 📆🎄
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) November 4, 2022
And you can join us for this very special Carol Service on @ITV on Christmas Eve 📺 pic.twitter.com/UoThGKGsAl
Kensington Palace said: "Spearheaded by the Princess of Wales, and supported by the Royal Foundation, the service will recognise the selfless efforts of individuals, families and communities across the UK, and celebrate and showcase the joy that human connection and togetherness can bring."
Kate spent time with guests before the service began.
You might recognise this darling little boy.
Kate reunited with four-year-old Theo who waited for hours to present her with flowers in Wales several months ago.
A video of the sweet meeting.
There is an additional and very meaningful significance to this year's service.
A Palace spokesperson continued: "This year’s carol service is dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the values Her Majesty demonstrated throughout her life, including duty, empathy, faith, service, kindness, compassion and support for others. These principles are shared and personified by the inspirational guests who have been invited to the abbey in recognition of their tireless work to help and care for those around them."
The symbolism of Paddington bears offered a very fitting touch given their significance in the days after HM's passing.
Guest nominations were drawn from all over the UK, alongside community networks and charities associated with members of the Royal family, including some of the patronages of Her late Majesty. The congregation included people who may be more vulnerable or isolated in our communities -- people who may find the winter period particularly challenging.
The carol service was organised to "combine traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none".
Guests take their seats.
The world-famous Westminster Abbey choir performed universally loved carol's such as ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’, which was selected through a public poll last week in collaboration with breakfast show Good Morning Britain.
A host of well-known names performed including Craig David, Alfie Boe and Melanie C, Samantha Barks and Alexis Ffrench.
Several readings by Prince William, Kristin Scott Thomas, Hugh Bonneville and Kadeena Cox featured.
A number of Together at Christmas carol services will run in tandem with today's Westminster Abbey concert all over the United Kingdom. Hosted by lord lieutenants and supported by the Royal Foundation, these events will be tailored to their local communities whilst also including elements of the Westminster Abbey service. Locations include Belfast, Birmingham, Telford, Swansea and Newcastle. Decorations and refreshments were sponsored by Tesco and Hobbycraft.
Westminster Abbey has been sharing sneak-peeks of their decorations throughout the week.
The Abbey noted: "The cloisters date from the 13th to the 15th centuries and were one of the busiest parts of the medieval monastery, used for meditation and exercise."
Thoughtful tree adornments.
The snowy scene of College Garden.
Sharing additional information regarding the ITV broadcast on Christmas eve, Kensington Palace added: "The event will be broadcast as part of ‘Royal Carols: Together at Christmas’, a special programme narrated by Catherine Zeta Jones, airing on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.
"The broadcast will feature additional content including an introduction from the Princess of Wales, films highlighting individuals who go above and beyond to support others, and tributes to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II."
The Waleses departing afterwards.
We can safely say burgundy was the colour of the event! The Princess looked effortlessly stylish in a chic bespoke coat by Eponine London (with thanks to Caroline Parr and Kate Middleton Style).
Kate wore a very similar piece by the brand in blue for a COP 26 reception last November.
The Princess debuted a lovely pair of dangling earrings. It's thought they are a £14 pair from Accessorize - The Eclectic Gem Statement earrings.
Kate's burgundy gloves and croc clutch.
Kate wore her Gianvtio Rossi pumps in burgundy suede.
As we discussed earlier this week, a pre-Christmas trip to Cardiff is thought to be on the cards for the Waleses.
We may also see the King continue his late mother's tradition for hosting a pre-Christmas luncheon for extended family at Buckingham Palace. The royals will gather at Sandringham next week to continue the special family tradition.
Absolutely stunning. The whole family look very well this evening. Looks like new earrings to me. Princess Beatrice is blooming since she got married, she looks beautiful. Lovely to see her own family and so many of the extended Royal family there to support the Princess of Wales. Looking forward to your update Charlotte, thanks. S☺️
ReplyDeleteI’m so excited!
ReplyDeleteMe too! Can we watch it in the US?
DeleteI love how Catherine offered to hold George’s hand and he turned her down like he was thinking ‘’Nah, I’m a big boy now - I can handle it!”
It will be on PBS, check your local listings
DeleteThe Princess of Wales looks lovely and appropriate for a holiday event. I love the monochromatic look of her outfit and accessories!
ReplyDeleteSuch a Christmassy event - a lovely new tradition. I really, really appreciate your article, Charlotte. You really captured all the little details that made this event so beautiful. Gorgeous photos! I like what she's wearing. I've read somewhere that the earrings came from Accessorize. I'm delighted that the new Princess of Wales has had so much support from across the Royal Family for this.
ReplyDeleteSpectacular!
ReplyDeleteThe Princess of Wales shines with her warm personality as well as shining with the perfection of her personal appearance & on-point fashion! Sign me "Filled with awe & admiration from New York"
So feminine. Very festive. So lovely to honour the queen.
ReplyDeleteI love everything : her beautiful coat (would like to wear the same !), her earrings and her smile ! I also really like Camilla's outfit.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't noticed that Prince George had grown so much.
The Paddington shaped decoration is so sweet and a nice thought for the late Queen.
The Daily mail is reporting that the earrings are £14 from Accessorize. I had hoped for new ruby earrings. The style really suits her. Similar earrings in diamond would look amazing on her. S😀
ReplyDeleteI will have landed in London this time (Thursday, late morning in Arizona) next week and am so excited! Am trying to convince my husband to go to the carols service at St. Paul's on the 23rd (the Abbey service is sold out) and, oh, just do loads and loads of walking! The video with the little boy on your post, Charlotte, is beyond adorable! I wonder if she specifically asked his name when they met him and then sent an invite? It seemed at the end of the clip I could hear the mum saying "Thank you very much." I also was wondering if Eugenie is expecting? Her belt seems high on her waist; both she and Beatrice and their husbands look wonderful. They all look wonderful! Valerie in Arizona
ReplyDeleteYes, I believe that Eugenie is pregnant and that morning sickness is why she abruptly left during the middle of the Queen's funeral service, in what would otherwise have been considered a shocking thing to do.
DeleteEugenie and Beatrice left just at the end of the funeral service, not the middle, so they could be driven to Wellington Arch to attend the transfer of their grandmother’s coffin from the gun carriage to the hearse for the journey to Windsor for interment.
DeleteI wondered that about eugenie as well, i just love her and would be so happy for them! the sisters and their husbands look wonderful!!
DeleteFirst off, I have to say that Kate hasn't looked this good in a while. Somehow, her hair length and color are on point, her makeup is flawless but not overdone and the burgundy suits her immensely as well as the earrings (that are just 14 pounds!). What a proof that even less expensive things can look very nice. The princess always looks amazing but today she really kicked it out of the park.
ReplyDeleteSecond but not least, what a beautiful show of unity. I hope that the kids have adjusted well at school and Kate and William and C&C are coping well - it is hard after late HM's passing.
Ella
Kate, Charlotte, Pippa and Zara all in the same colour!! The family looks beautiful. Kate’s hair and makeup are particularly good here.
ReplyDeleteEveryone looks wonderful. And happy, although I'm sure the late Queen's absence will be felt this year. But how lovely and good to see a happy family.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely lovely! Loving the winter coats. Queen Elizabeth II would be so proud!
ReplyDeleteThis is a grand new tradition! I will look forward to it every year now! I agree with all the above that everyone looks fantastic! Kate in jewel tones is the best and this is a very Christmassy jewel tone! I love watching her interact with people treating each one as if they are the only one there for that moment. She is a jewel! Of the family's fashion I thought Queen Camilla looked wonderful in winter white and Gabriella so beautiful in red and black.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, Charlotte, if you find ways we can watch the carol service in the USA it would be appreciated! Thanks!
It will be broadcasted on PBS, check your local listings for day/Time
DeleteThe decorations and settings are very attractive! I'm sure the program is enjoyed by the nation -- it's nice to have a constant.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely flawless look - I love the way many of the family wore burgundy too. What a color - they all look great. I think Eugenie is expecting too - that would be wonderful for them. Zara looks fabulous lately - has anyone side noticed that ?
ReplyDeleteAgreed, a flawless look, and it would appear burgundy is on trend! Everybody looked absolutely fabulous, and yes, Zara has been looking exceptionally stylish of late! It is hard not to notice, she looks healthy, happy and she just kind of glows lately!
DeleteIt’s almost like the picture for the invite was illustrated and it snowed just to make that invitation realistic! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteShe looks absolutely radiant!!! It appears the Middleton clan decided to have the ladies where Burgundy!! They all look splendid. Truly a wonderful affair with family. ♥️ 🎄
ReplyDelete-FloridaGirl
Such a wonderful event! I am trying to figure out how to watch both this and last year’s services in the US. I thought that most everything could be streamed these days, but apparently I need a UK IP address to watch ITV.
ReplyDeletePBS in the USA
DeleteThey all look so nice! What a lovely event. And the Paddington Bears on the tree make me want to cry - how sad HMTQ can't be here! Also, lovely post - lots of nice pictures of everyone, and of the event!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful, dignified look from all on this occasion. The burgundy (rather than true, festive red) seems especially appropriate in light of it being a tribute to Queen Elizabeth; it's Christmassy enough without being over bright and cheerful.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the nice post Charlotte. Kate looks gorgeous. this colour and outfit is great. I will try and find this event online as it didn't air here in Canada. I know today is a very hard day for the royal family and in particular Kate and William. I feel sorry for them and I can imagine how difficult today was. I won't comment on my thoughts on the documentary here will do so when you post at your Meghan Blog. For now I am glad the event went well and they showed unity in the face of heartbreak today.
ReplyDeleteThey all look wonderful. The Princess of Wales is perfect tonight. HM the Queen Consort looks great too. I wish we could watch this event here in the States.
ReplyDeleteMakes me wonder if the maroon and awhite theme was planned for photos?
ReplyDeleteAh, carol services. Even a confirmed atheist like me enjoys them and has fond memories of attending them as a child in the Episcopal Church, the American branch of Anglicanism. Even my secular Jewish husband likes them!
ReplyDeleteI have rather admired Eponine designs and like this sleekly-fitted coat very much. I wish we could have seen what dress the Princess wore underneath. I should add, however, that no one seems to agree on what color "burgundy" is. This looks "plum-ish" to me, and that's not my idea of "burgundy". I recently bought a dress from The Fold that was variously described in the ad copy as "burgundy" and "winter berry". (It's burgundy, in my view, containing less blue than "berry" or "plum" would have comprised.) Beware online descriptions: you may well end up with a color you really didn't think you were ordering.
The ever-chic Lady Gabriella Windsor gets much less attention from the fashion press than she should. I love her red coat. It's odd how some people are simply chic with little effort and others, no matter how hard they try, no matter how expensively they dress, are not. Lady Gabriella has long represented the concept. Most of the British royals never have, though the Duchess of Kent and her daughter, Lady Helen Taylor, have done so.
The coat, to me, is more of a garnet in color, a dark red leaning towards violet. In a few photos you can see a peek at the dress underneath which does seem somewhat 'purplish'; would have loved to see it! I completely agree with you that Lady Gabriella Windsor looked absolutely chic, and she does seem to be that very person you describe. She reminds me somewhat of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy - they both have a very natural beauty, and an effortless, classic style.
DeleteVittoria, definitely true when buying online. I have bought items that were a completely different colour when arrived. It's the lighting they use. S.😀
DeleteKate looks gorgeous, burgundy must be the colour of the season! And loved both York princesses in the check coats. Gabriella Windsor is BoG for me style wise the beautiful red coat and black accessories for what must have been a very cold evening. I imagine the lovely singing and hope it gets played here on TV in Australia. Sue in WA
ReplyDeleteThey all (including extended family) look lovely. Always a treat to see the children. The 4 of them look beautifully coordinated. I look forward to watching us on Christmas from the states. Thanks Charlotte! Sue
ReplyDeleteLovely evening at 'Together at Christmas'. Nice to see the Royal family united for this wonderful, simply meaningful event. Catherine, the Princess of Wales is effortlessly beautiful. I can't wait to watch the the whole event aired on schedule.
ReplyDeleteI think this is my favourite event for 2022. It is a festive occasion and the snow turned it into a fairy tale, particularly for a person living in Africa. Thank you Charlotte once again for your insightful and positive blog. 2022 brought so many changes for the Royal Family and your powerful reporting went from strength to strength, especially with Queen Elizabeth II's passing. Your blog is an example of the positive side of social media. Although I obviously do not know any of the regular readers, I always look forward to read comments from so many. I think of the positive comments from readers such as Allison in US, Becca USA, Tammy from California, Melissa Hafting and Florida Girl. I always look out for Bluefire's enthusiastic posts and of course for Vittoria's posts with her keen knowledge of fashion and social niceties. Wishing you all a wonderful Festive Season and an improved 2023.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Nicoline! I work in publishing and started with a new company about 4 years ago. Company policy is that you will be fired if you are in any way negative, unpleasant, snarky toward another employee. That was not the norm and I oddly was a little traumatized at first. I now love the attitude and it makes work SO enjoyable. That's how I feel about Charlotte -- this is a place to be positive even though disliking a style is permitted. Knowing that hateful remarks will not appear is so good for one's blood pressure! For me, and I imagine many non-US viewers, this event brought holiday views with beautiful music. The Abbey belongs to everyone and it must be lovely to see it in snow with decorations. We have similar events in the US but they are usually dependent on the current president so it's hard to have a 100% appeal.
DeleteThank you Nicoline for including me in such an esteemed group! Like everyone else, I am trying to process everything & hope when I’m ready to post, that I can find the right words. Bless you & may you too have a wonderful festive season & an improved 2023!
DeleteBecca
USA
Oh, goodness, my mother would be so proud to see me complimented for a knowledge of social niceties. "Well, well," she would say, "Evidently, I did something right!"
DeleteAnd thank you for the holiday good wishes! The same to you and yours!
Thank you so much Nicoline for your very kind words, it means a lot to me! Happy Christmas!
DeleteSuch a happy and good-looking family. Everything seems so harmonious and festive. Lovely to see.
ReplyDeleteI like this look a lot. But I am confused. @Charlotte- you called it a staple but I thought the Christmas Together service is just in its second year? Hardly a staple at this point. Maybe after 5.
ReplyDeleteAnyhow, I very much like that this event could be something closely associated with Kate and that she takes it on as her event with personal involvement.
I also would love to see this as a second family affair with lots of royals attending.
Let’s see how this pans out in the future. It’s certainly a wonderful event and could be a fitting staple event in the calendar of a Queen.
This event is very well done especially with the coordinating services natonwide. It's a great way for the family to lead Christian traditions besides just walking to Church on Christmas Day.
ReplyDeleteLoved seeing all the burgundy. Many on this blog wish K would lob a few inches off her hair. Pippa’s hair looked great and shows that a shorter cut can still be bouncy in the way K likes hers.
ReplyDelete-celticgirl
What a lovely event. I hope at least a part of it will be available on YouTube later on. I love the photograph of Her Late Majesty at Westminster Abbey; it looks as if she were there today, discreetly overseeing the settings. And I believe her presence must have been felt by her loved ones. Thank you for including the picture, Charlotte, as well as for the whole post! Zora
ReplyDeleteThis entire post has put me in the Holiday Spirit ! Little Theo is adorable . I have noticed that over the years, the Princess of Wales has managed her wardrobe choices to include one nice affordable item in December. The earrings are lovely . Everyone looked so nice in their winter coats. I love the tradition of Lessons and Carols . An un amplified choir is beautiful to hear.
ReplyDeleteBurgundy - colour of p o w e r.
ReplyDeleteirs ice too see wales and the king and queen i love the extended family attend too love the first curtsey of the wales to thee king and queen ,love the wales kids they are lovely
ReplyDeleteThe Princess of Wales looks beautiful, the rich burgundy coat, fits superbly, love it. The accessories, perfect choice. I loved the other deep colors similarly worn by some of the other guests.
ReplyDeleteLoved the look and loved the harmony among the members of the family!! However I still think that the prince and princess of wales do very little. I mean look at Charles. He had every day appearances as prince, and still does as king. The waleses,?? One engagement a week ,rarely two.... now this is not a full calendar for heis to the throne.... they don't seem to step up the game......I really like them but this is an issue, to me anyway.......
ReplyDeleteYou are certainly not alone. Their numbers are extremely low in comparison to all other senior royals. Many supporters struggle with this point. I think we won’t see a rise in numbers but rather lower numbers all around as this will be a given in a streamlined monarchy. So no need to build up expectations. Their numbers are only a little lower compared to the other royal heirs. The BRF spoiled us, but if it shrinks so will engagement numbers.
DeleteI do think though, that the fact that they never appeared eager to work has taken some damage to their public profile. And while I appreciate taking time for your family, they got the full „salary“ for not even doing the job part time in some years. So either have a lower profile and less privileges or do the work. You can’t have your cake and eat it.
Agreed. Several weeks ago their children were on a multi-week break from their school. William and Catherine had no or one or two scheduled engagement(s) during that time. When their children returned to school they met the president of South Africa and had the State Dinner. Subsequent to that, they were not seen until they went to America, then the Diplomatic Reception and now this.
DeleteI have to say I totally agree they really need to up their game . All too often engagements are London based . It’s time to increase engagements and the range of organisations they support
DeleteTheir primary job is to raise their children. Hands-on as possible to help them grow into secure people.
DeleteI disagree. I think those are very judgemental statements reflecting a sense of ownership that is disturbing. We know how very difficult and toxic it is to be constantly exposed and every move pondered on. We know the impact it has on mental health. I think Kate has found her own coping mechanisms, placing her priority in the wellbeing of her family. That doesn't mean she doesn't do a lot for her public role and what she does she does thoroughly with a long term nd realistic approach that is very constructive. On the other hand, it is clear she is in a very challenging and tough position and she keeps going. No small feat in itself. She makes it look effortless when it is very hard, only listen to Harry and Meghan on the subject.
DeleteThe other coping or defence mechanism she uses is being very cautious and not saying anything personal. It must be exhausting to be under scrutiny all the time.
In short, she doesn't need more pressure, more claims for her to do so and so, to be more visible or more often seen in public or to up her game or whatever is the last critic. She is managing as best as she can , has never put a foot wrong, has never said anything controversial, has always looked the part, always seems happy to meet whoever she meets, she is always engaged and engaging. I don't think anyone could do her job as well as she does.
Natacha, I totally agree & you expressed your thoughts so beautifully.
DeleteBecca
USA
I agree OP. Family welfare is important and they are wonderful parents and already doing a great job of that. In addition they have the great support system of the Middletons. But with a higher profile role comes more responsibility, that’s just the way it is. Kate has been associated with the Royal Family for two decades and married into it for over 10 years. These expectations of more work shouldn’t come as a surprise whatsoever. I agree she does make it look much easier that it appears, but she was given a lot of time and heavily prepared for this life and the scrutiny that comes with it. I’m hoping these are just growing pains with their new roles and they will find their stride soon. Lesley UK
DeleteI had another thought..... The wonderful job Kate does & the overall success of the Wales family, I believe is in no small part due to The Middleton Family. How wonderful for them to have the love & support of this family, that clearly have a close/enjoyable relationship with each other & The Wales Family. I think it goes a long way to add balance to their lives.
DeleteThe comment where they need to raise their children. I think the people aren’t asking for them to do tons of away trips, or work after school hours. They should be doing engagements while their children are at school for the 8 hours a day.
DeleteWe should have seen them active in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Helping the less fortunate. They live a glamourous life, they should be putting a lot of that back into their country.
I have read that William is very nervous of the press exposure. I believe he has taken on extensive work in the EarthShot Prise, and other projects where the work is mostly behind the sevens to avoid the major exposure his mother endured. Catherine is doing the same with her work on early childhood support. I think we will never see the level of public exposure of the Prince and Princess of Wales that we saw before.
DeleteWell said, Natacha. Absolutely well said.
DeleteI agree with Becca's USA and will go so far to say that Kate's family is 100% responsible for the family's stability, etc. Kate has a different relationship with her family than previous royal brides and it's a very good thing. I don't know about more work, more outings. I am reading terrible things about food insecurity and inability to access health care -- I think the RF needs to really be out trying to make some difference. There are enough aides to arrange outings that they just have to show up -- but it should only be done if their interests truly result in some beneficial change.
Delete“The world will not stop turning for anyone.”
ReplyDeleteThat’s a saying that was once told to me many years back.
In this age, media could no longer be within certain institution’s control, especially not in the part of the world where freedom of speech is dearly preserved.
In this age of media, the privilege to reserve the last word is next to impossible. There’s no end to all the talks, all the accusations, all the stories that one wishes to tell. There’s no end to it all.
“Family Together”, the message is clear, the wish for togetherness, to come together to remember the past, to celebrate the present and to look forward to the future, together, as one family. The invitation is so transparent, it’s an invitation to everyone. It’s for the free willed, free spirited, free person with his own free mind, to decide whether or not he wishes to be a part of.
Everything one does is his own choice. But the consequences are not up to each individual. Therefore we teach our children to speak with sincerity, to hold our tongue, to consider the words before they are even uttered, for words can heal and also can harm.
Everyone has feelings, but one can decide if they want to lash it out in words is their personal choice, because we all have to live with it. We can freely speak, but we cannot take back what has already been spoken.
Till this day, one thing I leant remains true, the empty vessel makes the most noise.
Not pointing fingers at anyone, let us remember that those who speaks the loudest has feelings. The reverse is also true.
Princess Kate chooses wisely; words of gratitude, words of thanks and of comfort, can bring much console to many tired and worried hearts.
There’s already so many worries in the world, adding more worries will not make the situation any worst.
However, it needs great strength of character for someone to give good cheer and give comfort to others, despite her own worries and concerns she has to endure. Thank you for taking it all in Princess Kate.
The world will not stop turning for anyone. Time is fair to all.
With limited time given to all, it is up to us to make the best of it.
Here’s wishing everyone a fun, peaceful and joyful end of the year 🙏
Let’s end the year strong and look ahead to a better year, come January 2023.
🌸🌸🌸
Very well said, I couldn't agree more. My late Mother always thought us to be very careful with the word's we say and use because they can never be unsaid or taking back. Wishing you a very happy Christmas and New year. Please God there will be peace in Ukraine. S.😀
DeleteThe future of the royal family is safe at hand. The out-pouring of support from royal family members & members of the public is unite evident. King Charles ll, the future King William & the future King George ensure the future of this great & grand family.
ReplyDeleteFor fun I always like to think of the practical logistics of the family participating in an event like this. It looks like the drive from their home to Westminster is an hour 15 to hour 30. So do you think the family along with the nanny come down early on the day and plan on staying at their apartment at Kensington for several days? Would be a good way to combine some fun in London, see some friends and not have it be such a long day. Ali
ReplyDeleteKids had school so I guess Kate went sooner as the host and William stayed with the children until they were ready and then leave together.
DeleteThanks, I was hoping they were out for break and able to enjoy a few days in London:)
DeleteI want to thank you all for your comments and request we don't discuss Harry and Meghan in this space. Comment moderation on my other blog is a truly ugly business and I've worked hard to separate the two and ensure the focus of this blog remains where it's always been.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your understanding.
Thank you, Charlotte. I love this blog, for one because of the deep dive that you do regarding the history of an event or location where Catherine is attending/presenting/participating. If discussion of Harry/Meghan started occurring in this space , then I would stop reading. I appreciate your consideration in keeping the two blogs separate.
DeleteMerry Christmas
Border Terrier lover
Dfrearest Charlotte:
ReplyDeleteSeason's greetings from the west coast of United States of America. It is my once yearly "write in" on your lovely blog of which I am an ardent follower/read: I've been following from the very beginning.
Thank you for your hard work throughout the year--I never miss a post. This year was particularly difficult with the passing of HM, Queen Elizabeth II. At first glance of the group photo of the family in Westminster Abbey, in the back of my mind I expected to see her; but quickly realize that she is no longer with us. I have no doubt whatsoever that she was there in spirit.
I happened upon a post elsewhere which shared that Prince William did a reading which was one of Her Majesty's messages, I think from the year 2012. It was ever so beautiful, and I think, spoke to what the Christmas season means and of giving. If I may be forward and suggest perhaps a good time to share the contents of that message would be the day the event is broadcast--just a thought!
I will leave you with best wishes to you and your lovely family and that you'll all enjoy a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Blessings on you. Stay safe.
RW.
A truly lovely idea RW. Thank you and Merry Christmas :)
DeleteCharlotte, I was having difficulty finding the TV listing on PBS for Kate's "Together at Christmas". I found out, it will be available on Britbox December 24th at 5pm ET. Evidently Britbox has a 7 day trial membership period.
ReplyDeleteYesterdays and this blog: As this was the original Blog by Charlotte, I have a lot of memories though not participating here as much anymore. There were quite a few recurring posts by interesting people whose names I don’t see here any more. I watched this couple’s wedding including when their three children were born. There used to be fashion prediction and creative challenge participation by readers which was a lot of fun. Times had changed and so had relations. I wish the Wales family peace and reconciliation, especially the brothers. Christmas is a time for new beginnings, love, healing, and forgiveness.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, the Wales family, and all readers here,
I wish you a Happy Holiday to you and yours.
Merry Christmas to all who observe and or celebrate.
Anon 15
Well it’s 7 to midnight here in Kensington, London (not the Palace, a small hotel nearby) and I wanted to wish you, Charlotte, a very Happy (aka Merry in the US) Christmas. I was out celebrating with family tonight so didn’t see the concert in full; it will probably be on PBS when I return to the US after New Year’s. From the photos in the Daily Mail, it looked beautiful. Thank you for reporting on the Princess’ news this year and especially for your coverage of the Queen’s funeral and the historical background you give to each and every post. Valerie not currently in Arizona :)
ReplyDelete