Monday 6 May 2019

LIVE Blog: It's A Boy! "This Little Thing Is Absolutely To Die For"


00:30: And that's it for tonight. It's been a fantastic day. Again, congratulations to Harry and Meghan. I'm sure the new parents are enjoying every moment and hopefully getting some sleep. I know we're all incredibly excited to meet Baby Sussex on Wednesday and of course find out his name. Thank you so much for following and tuning in, it's certainly been a tremendously special day and one of my favourite blogging at MAM. These two have come a long way :)


00:10: I'm wrapping up for the night with a couple of updates. Several royal correspondents now report Baby Sussex was born at London's Portland Hospital. The private maternity hospital combines a multidisciplinary team of staff, specialising in maternity, pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics. Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie were born there. Rebecca English has the full story here.


The London Eye lit up in honour of the new arrival.


The news is most certainly dominating the front pages.


Dad Prince Harry.


20.10 - More on how the day unfolded from The Telegraph:

'Although the Queen’s surgeon gynaecologists Alan Farthing and Guy Thorpe-Beeston were understood to have been on standby, it is thought Meghan opted for a female-led team. A spokesman later told me another reason for the secrecy was because “the medical team sought privacy too” - which would suggest neither Farthing nor Thorpe-Beeston assisted with the delivery.
Far from breaking with tradition, in fact Meghan revived a longstanding royal practice in following in the footsteps of the Queen, who had all her four children at home - including Prince Edward, who was born at Buckingham Palace in 1964 when HM was 37 - the same age as the duchess.
But in the absence of a Lindo Wing steps moment - it was Harry, 34, who decided he wanted to deliver the news personally to the press and public.'

19:55 - Chris Ship confirms Harry will travel to The Hague on Thursday for the official launch of Invictus 2020. The Prince will only be away for the day, Meghan and Baby Sussex will remain at Forgmore Cottage with Doria.

19:30 - Reaction from Windsor and further afield.


18:55 - A spokesman for the couple told the Telegraph, Harry is "absolutely in awe of his wife. They are both delighted". I simply love this photo of Harry; it captures the myriad overwhelming feelings a new parent experiences. Several years ago he spoke of his desire to have a family and finding the right one. He's now a husband and father - a wonderful one at that I have no doubt.


ITV reports:

After his public announcement, he was congratulated by the press who shook Harry’s hand in turn and the duke seemed beside himself with glee – ready to tell everyone his good news again.
Away from the cameras his relaxed, easy going demeanour revealed the duke was still on a high after witnessing the miracle of childbirth, but confessed “I’ve had about two hours’ sleep”.
The duke even apologised about the short notice for the press conference and joked with a cameraman who said sorry for not wearing a tie, telling him “you’re a cameraman, you can get away with it”.

18:50 - From Harry and Meghan's Instagram account: "Their Royal Highnesses thank you for your support and kindness during this exceptionally joyful time in their lives as they welcome their baby boy."

17:15 - Three cheers celebrating the arrival.


17:05 - Crowds gathering in Windsor.


17:00 - The Town Crier announced the birth outside the castle gates.



16:50 - The framed birth notice has been displayed on a ceremonial easel in the grounds of Buckingham Palace. It reads: "The Queen and the Royal Family are delighted at the news that Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex was safely delivered of a son at 0526 am today. Her Royal Highness and her child are both doing well".


16:45 - It is thought the Duchess gave birth at Frogmore Cottage, given the wording of the press release it does seem to be a correct assumption. We know Meghan's mother Doria was by her side, she's been with her daughter for the past couple of weeks. The two share an incredibly close bond and Harry adores his mother-in-law. Buckingham Palace said: "The Duchess’s mother, Doria Ragland, who is overjoyed by the arrival of her first grandchild, is with Their Royal Highnesses at Frogmore Cottage."


16:40 - Baby Sussex shares a birthday with George Clooney. The actor and his wife Amal are good friends of Harry and Meghan. Tony Blair, Bob Seger and Gabourey Sidibe were also born on 6 May.

16:30 - Shall we chat about names? In our poll your chosen names for a boy were....

Philip Alexander Charles

It's going to be fascinating to see the chosen names. I expect we'll see a combination of traditional family names married with a touch of modernity. Chris Ship revealed the bookies favourites are Alexander and James. Of course, the Queen's middle name is Alexandra. Share your guesses in the comments.


16:25 - We'll see the framed easel, as per tradition, on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace shortly.


15:45 - Watch Sky News live below. There's an abundance of coverage and interviews with royal reporters at present.


15:40 - The BT Tower in London.


15:30 - Regarding the photocall, Harry said: "We will be seeing you guys in two days' time as planned, as a family, to share it with you guys so everyone can see the baby". We can expect to officially meet Baby Sussex on Wednesday, the photocall will take place in the grounds of Windsor.


15:05 - It feels like a very appropriate time to congratulate Harry and Meghan on the birth of their son. These two are the proud parents of a healthy baby boy; royal news doesn't get any better than this :)


15:00 - I'm also embedding a Facebook video of Harry's very special announcement. "I'm very excited to announce that Meghan and myself had a baby boy this morning, a very healthy baby boy. I'm so incredibly proud of my wife. It's brilliant, I'm absolutely thrilled. We're really grateful for all the love and support shown to us. It's been overdue so we have had a little bit of time to think about names so that's the next bit. I haven't been at many births. This is my first birth. It was amazing and absolutely incredible. I'm incredibly proud of my wife. Every father and parent will say your baby is absolutely amazing but this little thing is absolutely to die for. I'm over the moon."


14:53 - Harry's statement from Sky News. As you can see, he's overjoyed :)


14:50 - The full statement from Buckingham Palace:

'Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex was safely delivered of a son at 0526hrs this morning. The baby weighs 7lbs 3oz. The Duke of Sussex was present for the birth.
The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Lady Jane Fellowes, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Earl Spencer have been informed and are delighted with the news.
The Duchess’s mother, Doria Ragland, who is overjoyed by the arrival of her first grandchild, is with Their Royal Highnesses at Frogmore Cottage.
Her Royal Highness and the baby are both doing well.'

14:45 - From Sussex Royal. "We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses’ son weighs 7lbs. 3oz. The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives. More details will be shared in the forthcoming days."


14:45 - Baby Sussex was born at 05:26 am this morning, weighing 7lbs 3 oz.

14:43 - Harry added: "This little thing is absolutely to die for".

14:42 - In a heartfelt statement, delighted dad Harry said mother and baby are doing well. He said he's so "incredibly proud of his wife". Harry and Meghan's son was born early this morning. "We're both absolutely thrilled and so grateful for all the love and support from everyone out there".

14:40 - IT'S A BOY

14:30 - A little insight from royal reporter Rebecca English.


14:25 - The Telegraph's Live Blog is running:

'Members of the international press have been assembled in Windsor for several weeks awaiting news that the baby is on its way, with American television networks updating their viewers daily.
They will now be joined by excited members of the public and the British media, in the last few hours before the seventh-in-line to the throne is welcomed into the world.
The baby is understood to be around a week overdue, with the Duchess, who is 37, said to be “comfortable and content” as she waited in her new home at Frogmore Cottage with her husband and mother Doria Ragland by her side.'

14:15 - Several reporters and the Buckingham Palace press release suggest we'll hear an announcement very soon. It's possible Baby Sussex is already here? It's incredibly exciting news and I know we're all thrilled for the couple. What do you think? Boy or girl?

14:10 - It's the exciting news we've all been waiting for! The Duchess of Sussex is in labour. We'll be with you throughout the day with the latest updates and all you need to know.

261 comments:

  1. Calling it now, it’s a girl!

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    1. girls are the best...plus I think Harry would spoil her rotten

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    2. Lol, I take it back - a boy.

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  2. Thank you, Charlotte! Very exciting!
    AnneHH

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  3. Praying for a safe delivery!🙏🏻

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  4. How exciting! Finally the day is here. I wonder if the last sentence confirms that the baby has already been born and they will announce it soon. Till then I wish them all the best and health for their first born. Lots of love from Vienna to Windsor <3

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    1. I agree. I noticed that too.

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  5. Praying for a safe delivery!🙏🏻

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  6. Sounds like the birth has already happened from how that press release is worded that he WAS by her side and an announcement is coming soon...

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    1. Yes I agree. They wouldn't be able to say an announcement soon unless baby has arrived and all is well...so exciting

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  7. Thank you for sharing and keeping us "live" ...
    What an exciting time for the parents to be, the whole royal family. All fingers crossed for a safe delivery and healthy baby Sussex ....
    Life as a family of 3 starts ... and I am sure we'll have to wait for more tiny feet within the next years...

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  8. Ahhhhh!!!! SO excited! I hope everyone is doing well!!!

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  9. Fingers crossed for her and the baby.

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  10. Yayyyy!!!!!!!! Charlotte, can you time stamp your posts throughout this? I see the press release says early hours in the morning but appears it was released in the afternoon there? I am in Texas so I've been watching the clock to see what time it is there. Hoping to hear she's delivered safely before 9pm tonight!

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  11. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 14:16

    Or the birth is very close, why say an announcement will be made "soon"? How exciting! Today is my oldest daughter Mara's birthday.

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    1. Happy birthday to your daughter too, dear Pam! !!!!!!

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    2. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 14:24

      I will tell her! Thank you!

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  12. Helen from Ontario6 May 2019 at 14:17

    Surely that should be “by Her Royal Highness’s side”? Or is the plural referring to Meghan and the baby. 😂

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    1. Royal 👑 Watcher6 May 2019 at 14:22

      That’s what I thought, Helen. How many highnesseses 😂 are we talking about here... I hope all goes well! Hurray!

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    2. Haha! I thought the same thing!

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    3. Yep! I think the Palace should be able to find someone in the kingdom who can pen an important announcement using proper grammar!

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    4. Same thought here :-D

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    5. Plural of Highness is Highnessess therefore Highness' is correct

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  13. I think that the little one is here already! For a few hours

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  14. lovedtobeaprincess6 May 2019 at 14:18

    Based on the wording, I think the baby is here already. Also, if she went in labour in the early hours of the morning, she’s pretty much done. And I say it’s a girl.

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    1. Oh how I wished that was true my 2 times around. I was in labour 21+ hours the first time and 23 the second! But I did note that if she went into labour in the early hours of the morning, the palace didn't say anything for 12.

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  15. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 14:18

    Hoping their oldest is a girl like mine was, but for some reason I think it's a boy. We'll find out soon!

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  16. Oh my god🎉🎉🎉

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  17. I expected them to skimp on the “going into labour” announcement. Although they did technically announce it I would not be surprised if the baby is already born or if the birth announcement follows within the hour.

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  18. Yeah. I think she had the baby. With my first I was in labor for 40 hours so I can’t imagine telling the world too early. I didn’t tell my own parents for like 15 of those hours.

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    1. I'm thinking she was induced first thing this morning. Therefore, I doubt the labor will be too long. Eagerly awaiting an announcement soon!

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    2. Okay--I bombed!! At least, I didn't try to guess the sex, but I thought it was a girl, too! I am so happy for them! Harry was so cute and sweet! He'll be a wonderful father.

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  19. Aleluia :) The Baby Sussex is on the way and what a very special baby is being born today. This Baby should represent love and all the most important things for which we all should lead our lifes :))) Welcome Baby Sussex we have been all waiting for your arrival :)))

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  20. So do we think she's at Frogmore or a hospital in Windsor??

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    1. I was thinking Frogmore from the fact that Harry did the interview from the cottage and I can’t think that he would be far, but then I saw the baby was born at 5:25. Which means she could have given birth at hospital and already returned home.

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    2. Good point RachelZA - it’s normal in the UK with a healthy natural birth to return home shortly after giving birth (unlike the US where women stay in hospital for a day or more).

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    3. In the US your health insurance company pretty much decides how long you get to stay in the hospital, and the standard for a healthy vaginal birth is less than 24 hours.

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  21. Girl! And how nice to see you on Instagram, dear Charlotte. Of course I‘m following both of your blogs there: DoC an DoS

    Lots of Love from Germany

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  22. Is it possible that the information on where the Meghan gave birth will be given?

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    1. Even if it isn't, I'm sure will get the lowdown from some anonymous "source" close to the Duke and Duchess, via the media.

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  23. I believe it is a beautiful baby girl. Whether a girl or a boy the Duke and Duchess will love their child with all of their hearts.

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  24. How exciting! I think Meghan has had the baby just before the labour announcement was made, purely because of the wording "was" and being ambiguous. They probably wanted to make sure all was okay first!
    I'm so excited :)

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    1. I am with you on that, Crystal

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  25. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 14:32

    Looking forward to see little Sussex playing with Louis and Eugenie's children!! Can't wait to hear the birth announcement!

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  26. I'm going to say girl!!! I know the name (for either gender) will have tons of meaning and love behind it! So exciting!

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  27. So exciting! Becoming a mother for the first time is indescribable. She's about to know what true love is. 💙💗💙💗💙💗

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    1. So true! There is truly nothing like it!

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  28. Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess and of course Doria!!! I'm so excited for them and hope that all goes well!

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  29. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 14:36

    I bet baby is here---it's past tense: "went" and "was." Very exciting. But nerve-wracking.

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  30. Martha, London.6 May 2019 at 14:39

    Exciting times! We wait with for further news!!!

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  31. Just got the notification, it's a boy!!!!!

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  32. AHH! It's a BOY!!! Thank you, Charlotte!!!!!

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  33. Whoop! Whoop! I Can't Believe I'm Here For It!! This Is An American Royal Watchers Dream Come True!!! lol :)XX I Could Not Believe It As I Was Working & The News Broke Through On CNN!!! :) Plus, I Can See The Tall Thingy That Changes Color When A Royal Baby Is Born From My Window!! :)xx Sooooo Exciting!! I'm Still pulling for Twins, 1 boy & 1 girl...... Hey a girl can dream!! lol :) xx

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  34. Martha, London.6 May 2019 at 14:42

    Happy news!!!!....

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  35. I knew it all the way. It's a boy!

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  36. YAY! Its a boy! What a moment for them both. Wishing them all the happiness in the world.

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  37. I turned on the TV just in time to see the new dad announce that it is a boy!
    I love the fact that Harry made the announcement himself.
    Interestingly, since it looks like he was somewhere outside stables, Meghan might have had her wish for a homebirth. I can’t imagine that he would venture far from Meghan and the baby at this time.

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  38. OHHHHH!!!! HARRY'S ANNOUNCEMENT!! Feeling So Emotional!!! xx

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    1. I know Becca, his announcement just made me fall more in love with him than ever! Have you ever seen anyone so over the moon??

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    2. Oh Lauri, No I Haven't!!! xxxxxxx

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  39. All the crying face emojis. I'm so happy for them!

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  40. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 14:46

    I thought so! A boy!

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  41. Well, at least since it is a boy, the future of the Sussex Dukedom is sexure as it may only be passed down through the male line.

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  42. That's wonderful! Congratulations to the lovely parents!! I did giggle and think "Ohhhh, Charlotte now has 2 brothers and 2 male cousins."

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    1. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 14:54

      Now we need for Charlotte to have a sister!

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    2. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 15:29

      It would be rather cool if both Kate and Meghan had baby girls about 1.5 years from now!!

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  43. So exciting! I’m glad for all our sakes we didn’t have to wait very long for an announcement!

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  44. Not sure why my first comment didn't appear? Anyway, thrilled for the new parents and interested by the lightning quick labour - if Meghan went into labour in the early hours of this morning and the baby was born before 6, things moved much more rapidly than I think is normal for a first child!
    Sarah UK

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    1. Hi Sarah, when I had my first I was in labour at home all day because the contractions were still about 7-10 minutes apart and the hospital doesn't want to see you until they're about 5 minutes apart, but once I arrived at the hospital it only took 3 hours before the baby was born.

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    2. My experience and my friends is all over the place with first second, third or whatever:) number child it is. Some babies just come quickly or the contractions leading up to it are mild enough that it seems super quick. My sister with her first child at about the same age as Meghan was having a regular day, started feeling the contractions more went into the hospital and delivered within about 30 minutes.

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  45. From the beginning I felt it's a boy. And everyone was saying it will be girl. A.

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  46. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 14:52

    Baby must have been born at home. Happy for them they were able to.

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    1. That's what I was thinking. Glad they were able to keep all the details private and hope it stays that way!

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    2. Anna, I am going to differ from you on that. I am super glad that they managed to have the privacy they wanted. Now that everything is over, just announce the basic information. I would have just slipped in an “at Frogmore cottage/Frimly Park” in the birth announcement. No big deal and no more speculation.

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  47. I am so excited for them!!! I'm so happy it's a boy!!! Many blessings to them!!! :)

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  48. Poor Charlotte, You Probably Had All Sorts Of Prep For The Live Labor Blog & Presto It's Born!! lol :)xx So Wonderful! Can't Wait For Pics!! :) xx

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  49. Really lovely that they included the Spencer family in the birth announcement.

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    1. Agreed! So thoughtful. I wonder if they'll somehow include the Spencer family in the name.

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  50. So they announced she was in labor after the baby had already been born or am I getting the times wrong??

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    1. Tbey did but used past tense.

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    2. Yes about 10 hours after the baby was born. I suppose it was a kind of warning for the media that an announcement is imminent, but I think they should rather have just said Harry will be making a announcement soon.

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    3. Thanks!

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    4. Caroline in Montana6 May 2019 at 22:57

      I agree with Anon15:04 - Seemed weird to announce she was in labor after it was all over. Glad he is finally here. cant wait to get the name and see him, my money is on jet black hair! im sure hes beautiful!!

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  51. They must be over the moon. Hopefully everything went smooth and mother and babe are in good health. I agree that the announcement was probably „delayed“ and the baby was already born. It’s a wise decision in my eyes. They have dealt with enough excitement about their life be it positive or negative. They deserve this privacy to start out as family of three. I guess this will be the course they go with their child/children in the next years. Not too much information beforehand and some sweet photos later (think christening, 1st birthday, starting nursery...). It’s a very reasonable and responsible decision in my eyes. Even though their children will probably never have to work, there is no guarantee that the monarch will last. And there might be no role for them after the streamline course of Charles and William. Setting them up for a privileged but independent life can only benefit them. Eugenie is a good example but maybe it will be even closer to the roles of Zara and Co. Additionally, it will give them brownie points with the British public.
    C.

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  52. Martha, London.6 May 2019 at 14:58

    Wow! I think lots of us expected it to be a girl! (me included) Great to see Harry after the birth.

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  53. Not surprised baby is a boy. The males in that family tend to have boys born first. So happy for them. Just waiting to find out where the baby was born. Surprised the baby didn't weigh more because it was in there so long, but that's a good thing. I dreaded the thought of her trying to push out a bigger baby. So excited!!

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  54. Ok, this Harry statement is so heartfelt, I broke out in tears. So happy for them.

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    1. Me too! He was overflowing with love and excitement.

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    2. Same! So happy! Congratulations, Sussex family! -op

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    3. The video of Harry is what love, passion, joy, enthusiasm, and gratefulness looks like. Watching someone experience pure joy is such a gift. That video of him made my day!

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    4. Same here! And did Harry turn around and say "Thanks guys" to the horses?? Lol, he is so darn likable.

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    5. YES! So giddy with love (and fatigue probably) that he thanked the HORSES! 😆💙

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    6. He always had a good sense of humour. :D So good to see him so proud and happy.

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  55. Harry talking to the press: https://news.sky.com/story/live-duchess-of-sussex-in-labour-royal-baby-due-11704745?utm_source=m.facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=m.facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=m.facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=Direct&utm_source=m.facebook.com&utm_medium=referral

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  56. Omg, that statement! His joy is contagious. It's just amazing to see him so happy :) :) :)

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  57. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 15:03

    Harry looks beyond happy! So nice to see the personal announcement, that's very special that he did that.

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  58. So I’m very very excited about this as it is MY 30th birthday today !!! Harry’s video is adorable and I can’t wait for two days from now and the photos and name ( hoping for Alex - which is my name!)

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    1. Happy Birthday Alex!!

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    2. Happy birthday! What a nice gift. :)

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  59. OMG, can Harry be any happier!! It's so wonderful to see him like this, so overwhelmed with love and happiness, no one deserves it more!

    I like how BP included Harry's maternal aunts and uncle in the announcement, it makes me feel like he has a relationship with that side of the family as well as the royals.

    Congratulations to Harry and Meghan!! And Welcome Baby Sussex!!

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    1. Yes, both William and Harry have a relationship with Diana's family. Lady Jane Fellowes, Diana's sister, gave a reading at Harry and Meghan's wedding.

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  60. Congratulations to them. I’m glad everything went well and everyone is in good health.

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  61. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 15:11

    Harry's happiness confirmed that all is truly well, so I cried just a little bit! Just imagine what a sweetie he will be with Harry as his dad! I appreciate the interview with Harry to cool off all the news seekers (like me) while Meghan recovers.

    Now, too early to set up boy baby Sussex with Olympia, Serena's daughter??

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  62. Rhonda - Wisconin6 May 2019 at 15:12

    I absolutely loved the video of Harry announcing his son's birth to the press. He's just tickled pink and it's so heartfelt. Love, Love, Love it! Congratulations to them both. Can't wait to see the little guy!

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    1. Zora from Prague6 May 2019 at 18:10

      Ditto, Rhonda! What a joy! I'm happy for them!! :-)

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  63. I do so hope they name him Philip!

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  64. Rita in Florida6 May 2019 at 15:17

    A boy!!! What an absolute thrill! I watched Harry with no sound and his expression is just priceless. Since I bombed on the sex, I’m doubling down on Philip for the name.

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    1. I didnt guess boy either! And I'm hoping they add Philip somewhere in the name too!!!

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  65. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 15:21

    I wonder if John may be one of the names - Diana's father's name.

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    1. I literally googled names in the Spencer family and was wondering the same!!! Maybe theyd even include the name 'Spencer' itself!

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  66. I'm sooooooo happy for them! Congratulations, may this baby boy have a very happy and very long life!

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  67. So my guess is Harry and Meghan will announce Earl Dumbarton’s name themselves at the interview on Wednesday.

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  68. What a sweet husband and father! And what an appropriate way to announce it. After all that mom goes through & is now recovering & probably trying to nurse, she should not have to be dress up & be photographed & critiqued. Remember how some criticized Kate for her big stomach hours after delivery, as if anything less would be normal. They obviously aren't trying to hide-just trying to not be crazy with a press conference immediately afterwards. He is obviously so happy to share the news. So happy for them & glad her mom is there to help & share the joy.

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  69. Oh joy! Yay! Welcome baby Sussex. Congratulations to Meghan and Harry. We are over the moon too.

    Love watching Harry's beaming face as he made the announcement. It felt personal and quieter and exciting at the same time.
    -Martine

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  70. Lovely, really wonderful. Harry is just beaming. Congratulations!

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  71. What a wonderful day!!! I just got back from taking my real nephew to school...only to see the news that my Sussex Nephew had been born. So exciting!

    Harry just looks so over the moon with his announcement (and how nice of him to speak to the press after what they put his family through!). I love how he has to get his "my wife" comment in, like usual and that he was so awed of the birth experience. I'm so happy he has his little family unit to love and be loved by. Meghan and Harry will be the best parents!!

    Can't wait to hear about the name (my long-time guess for a boy has been Dorian Charles, to be called Charlie from birth as Henry was Harry from birth). And can't wait for the photocall in 2 days.

    I'm just so happy and excited right now. Sending lots of loving and healing vibes to Meghan and baby Sussex. (And Harry and Doria too!)

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    1. I love the name you picked, inthekitchen.

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  72. Lol he's so euphoric he even thanked the horses! How wonderful!

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    1. I am pretty sure thanking the horses was a move to gather himself. He looked close to tears of joy, when he turned away. Very moved.

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  73. Congratulations Harry & Meghan 💝 💙🎈

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  74. Pure joy! I can not stop re watching Harry's personal announcement.

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  75. It jus hit me that both Louis & Baby Boy Sussex will be just 1yr apart!! Gosh I hope they're close! What a nice thing for the brothers to have sons that will grow up together! Diana must be beaming!! xx

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    1. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 16:16

      Becca, that was my thought. And perhaps Meghan and Eugenie will have girls at the same time, too!! (The press is pretending that Kate wants another baby but I think that is just made-up news.)

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    2. And Pippa has a little boy between the two, so Louis will have two little boy cousins his age. I hope they will all be friends.

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    3. Imagine the partying stories 18+ years hence...
      Congratulations & best wishes to Harry, Meghan and son.

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  76. Well, done Charlotte! Thank you for the live blog and all the updates! It was most appreciated!!

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  77. Thanks Charlotte For The Close Up Photo Of The BT Tower!!! I Can See It From My Mayfair Hotel Room, But I Can't Read It!!! lol lol lol I Could Tell They Changed It, (The Message Was Longer) But I Couldn't See What It Says!! lol :)xx

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  78. Congratulations to Meghan and Harry!

    It's 10:55am right now on the east coast of the USA and I'm still trying to get my head around the timing of the announcements and birth. From my calculations the birth was around 10:26pm on Sunday, May 5th (London time 5:26am on Monday, May 6th)? All the announcements seemed to just pop up now although I checked before going to bed on Sunday night and first thing this morning...oh well, that's how these things go with a birth, a big lovely surprise! So HAPPY for Meghan and Harry and his announcement made my week. I'll be re-playing Harry's clip quite a bit.

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    1. Christina O - The time difference from the east coast to London is only 5 hours meaning Baby Boy Sussex was born at 12:26 a.m. EDT. Harry's announcement was made around 3 p.m. so it was about 10 a.m. here.

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  79. I read the news here first, then checked other sites for information. I was 100% sure that this baby would be a girl. My guess was based on Harry saying on at least two occasions, that he hoped the baby would be a girl. I figured that they already knew the gender, or he would never make that declaration publicly. So, my presumption was totally wrong. I'm sure now that the baby is here, it doesn't make one iota of a difference. Anyway, let Meghan get over all that first time motherhood involves and we can hope for a girl the next time.

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  80. Welcome Baby Sussex, prayers for you to have a marvelous life. I am amused that the baby was born before 5:30 a.m. but they didn't announce that Meghan had gone into labor till hours after he was born. This really makes me wonder if she gave birth in a hospital and they waited to announce anything until they were all back home. No letting the press know so they were running around looking for her.
    How many ways are there into Windsor?

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  81. I am so happy for them !
    I will send a card to congratulate the parents...
    Lila (France)

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  82. What a sweet announcement from Harry. He even thanked the horses! Happy all is well, and baby Sussex was delivered safely. Congratulations Harry and Megan.

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  83. Thankful all the ridiculous conspiracy theories that HRH had given birth weeks ago will cease. Harry looks like every other new father, blitzed and delirious with joy. Welcome, little Earl Dumbarton. You share a birthday with a great American sports hero, Willie Mays. I hope your life will be a long and happy blend of the two great nations in which heritage and culture you share. Blessings!

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  84. After looking at Harry like 27 times, I came to the conclusion that as they said they did not know the sex of the baby. He doesn’t seem 100% comfortable talking about he/him yet. And they have already decided on the name, if not all the names at least on what they want call their little one.

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  85. Welcome Viscount Spencer Phillip William Sussex!

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    1. Correct title: Earl of Dumbarton since he is the first son he inherits one of the lesser titles.

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    2. Sorry, Anonymous 16:38: Baby Sussex will not inherit any title during Harry's lifetime, after which he will inherit all of them. In the UK, the heir to an hereditary peerage is "loaned" one of his father's subsidiary titles by custom and curtesy. Thus, Baby Sussex will be named [Given name] Mountbatten-Windsor, styled Earl of Dumbarton, and (probably) will be known informally as [Name] Dumbarton.

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    3. You are of course right. ByrdBrain, I meant styled as... english is not my mother tongue.

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  86. Wow Prince George, prince Louis and this baby have all been born on a Monday. And all boys too!

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    1. I was just thinking the exact same thing!!

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    2. What a coincidence! That's interesting, thanks for pointing it out!

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    3. Pippa's son also born on Monday 15 Oct. :)

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  87. Charlotte, can you repost our guesses for a boy??! 💗

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  88. I'm soooo happy for them!!!!! :)))

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  89. LOL. I love today’s news. FINALLY- I have something to talk about at the water cooler as I’m probably the only person at work not watching Game of Thrones (started the series just to keep up, but have given up since my workmates spilled the beans).

    - Martine

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    1. Thanks for the laugh.GOT, LOD & the baby all together this weekend.m so happy the baby has come...the boy sure is going to be a cutie

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  90. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 16:38

    The birth nearly coincided with an ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) meeting in the US where Meghan was actually ridiculed for plans for a home birth ("with a doula and a willow tree"). Makes me so angry!!! This shows the arrogance of (some; Becca, your husband is excluded from this rant) male US obstetricians. In the UK, fewer than 9.2 per 100,000 women die in childbirth. In the US, 26.5 per 100,000 mothers die, and a greater percentage are African American. You may have a right to arrive at a hospital in the US and give birth, but that is the extent often of your care.

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    1. In the article I read about that, the quote about the doula and the willow tree was attributed to Dr. Timothy Draycott, envoy of the Royal College of Gynecology. Not an American.

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    2. So pleased that Baby Sussex has arrived safely. Congratulations to Megan, Harry and welcome to the world little one.

      Just a quick point about the comment of a homebirth with a Doula - in the U.K Women are attended by Mid-wives who are medically trained and qualified nurses who have then specialised in midwifery. A doula is a non-medical birthing companion. Two very different people and both can be in attendance. We are also very much encouraged to plan out the way we want our labour to be managed and this is then discussed with the mid-wife who is seeing you during your pregnancy. The levels of medical intervention is very much lower in the UK than in the US and the styles of labour management and expectations are very different. I've lived in the UK, US and Canada and all three have very different expecations. In the UK you only see a Gynaecologist if it is indentifed during your regualar midwife check ups that there maybe complications.

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    3. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 19:29

      Marianne, you're so right -- I read too fast. Shame on him but shame on the audience for laughing rather than booing. Just to bring her name up at all was very very rude.

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  91. CONGRATS to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. 👏🏽👏🏽. Fantastic news! Thank you, Charlotte.

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  92. Ohhhh how I love Philip Alexander Charles! I would love it if that was the little ones name! Although, I wonder if they'd have the babys first name be Philip since Prince Philip is still alive.

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  93. So vey happy for them ! Harry looks likes he's going to burst with joy ! Look forward to seeing the photos of this lovely family of three.
    Charlotte hat off to you for the live blog !

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  94. Congratulate Harry and Meghan on the birth of their son. This is wonderful news! Now I'm waiting for the photos 😍

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  95. Wow! Congratulations!!!

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  96. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 16:51

    And I am perfectly happy to hear the news from Harry and wait for 2 days until Meghan is ready and comfortable. I wish Kate and Diana had been able to do that.

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  97. Becca H in Colorado6 May 2019 at 16:57

    I really thought they'd have a girl, so what a surprise! I'm so glad Meghan & the baby are doing well. I was also surprised at how late the palace released the statement of Meghan being in labor (when, in fact, the baby had already been born), only to follow with the birth announcement about an hour ish later. I know they promised both, so good on them for following through, but I do wonder why they didn't announce the labor earlier? If the baby was born around 5:30am, then Meghan must've been in labor since the previous evening, right? Regardless, I'm very excited Baby Sussex is finally here!!!

    And Harry. I cannot get over his excitement. That video was the cutest thing. I imagine they'd had the plan for the photocall, but when the moment came, he was just too excited and full of goodwill, therefore deciding to speak to the media himself. I really thought that was a lovely gesture. Also, Harry thanking the horses at the end of his interview was the LOL of the morning :D

    Oh, was anyone else surprised that some of the Spencers were included in the birth announcement? W&K never did that, right? I wonder if this means that the baby will be given a Spencer family name...

    And, speaking of which, now that we know it's a boy, I'll wager a guess on the name. I do think Philip will factor in somewhere, but am almost positive they'll choose something non-traditional.

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    1. Becca, regarding the Spencer's name being mentioned, well Harry and William have always maintained a connection to Diana's family. Lady Jane Fellowes did a reading at Harry and Meghan's wedding. You might be interested in this site:
      https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a27374080/princess-diana-siblings-meghan-markle-prince-harry-baby-comment-2019/

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  98. SPENCER, would be a wonderful name for Baby Sussex. If not the first, perhaps in the middle. It is a name heard in the USA and one right on the mark for Harry and Meghan's baby.

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  99. Maggie! Thoughts?

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  100. Congratualations to the proud parents. I wanted to see Harry's happy face more than a hospital photo op, and how wonderful for him to make the announcement personally. I think it's a wonderful way to do things. If Meghan wanted a home birth, I hope she was able to do so. I have to smile to hear that Meghan went into labour early in the morning during "radio silence" and was able to deliver in time for early broadcasts. I think the Sussexes got their wish for privacy, and because they did, the press got camera time with Harry, so really they got more than they would have in front of the Lindo wing. All parents think their babies are beautiful, Baby Sussex must be a real cutie judging from Harry's words. I think Alexander Charles Francis has a nice ring to it- his own name and honouring grandpa and grandma.

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  101. Congratulations to Harry and Meghan! It's my birthday today and I'm happy to share it with your little bundle of joy! Love, Elisabeth, Carcassonne

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  102. Wonderful! Congratulations to the happy couple. I'm a bit disappointed because I had read the betting pools were on it being a girl named Ivy and I would have loved that, but they have a healthy baby boy. Harry looks so happy and relaxed -- a lot of the tension I've seen on his face was gone this morning. Hope Meghan rests up.

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  103. God bless Harry and Meghan and their newborn son. I'm beyond overjoyed for them. May their lives be filled with laughter, health and happiness.

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  104. Pam from Boston6 May 2019 at 17:18

    I think they'll choose for the first name a non-traditional name (in the sense that it won't be a traditional Royal name), any maybe for the middle names John (for Diana's father), Albert (for HMQ's father), Philip, or William (for Harry's brother!). But I really don't see Alexander or James being one of the names.

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  105. "God bless America. And God save the Queen"
    ooo! that surprised me! but he's got a point! how incredible.
    also, i'm so glad to see harry so happy and so excited about the news.

    Annie
    NY, USA

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  106. Congratulations to their Royal Highnesses on the birth of their little Prince or Earl, such wonderful news. I’m absolutely delighted for them. May their years ahead as a family be all that they have dreamed of and be filled with happiness and joy. Xo

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  107. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 18:00

    Meghan being Meghan, I would think she had some names that she has thought about for future children. I believe that at least one name will be just a name she likes or an African name. I like Spencer a lot but think he should have a first name that doesn't give Charles anxiety. For the baby's sake, of course.

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    1. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 22:15

      I didn't mean to be insulting or to generalize. I know that most of the countries in the world would fit into the continent of Africa -- Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent with 54 countries. I meant a name from one of the countries, like you might chose a French name or a Scottish name or a German name, where the language is not English and so there might be either a name that is particularly attractive as a word or a name that has a particular meaning. Obviously a person can be French or Scottish or German and have any name, but there are some names that originate in certain areas of the world. The typical Royal names are pretty Anglo, and M&H have friends from around the world but they have not made it a secret that they enjoy certain places in Africa in particular. By "African name," I mean a name that is not English but is part of the language of a particular country in Africa. They would have to chose the country.

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  108. @Carlotte
    I just want to point out that Meghan didn’t necessarily have a homebirth. The baby was born early morning and the statement was from late afternoon/ early evening. They could have already been home. Having an „outpatient birth“ is not unusual if the birthing process was easy and mother and baby are doing well.
    It will be interesting if we get a clear statement on this topic. Not that it’s any of our business.
    C.

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  109. My prediction on this blog in September 2017: "St George's Chapel, April 2018, with Harry created Duke of Sussex. Dorian, Viscount Inverness, born the following spring, with Lady Frances Windsor arriving in 2020."

    They didn't make Harry Earl of Inverness, but other than that...well, we'll see...

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  110. My name prediction now stands at: Alexander Philip Dorian Thabo (or some other Tswana name), Viscount Dumbarton.

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  111. I don't often post here but wanted to share in all the excitement. Prince Harry is obviously over the moon - and obviously a man utterly in love with his wife. What a treat that video is on a gloomy Northeast day. May God richly bless this new little one with the happiness and love his daddy expressed today in announcing his arrival. It's a beautiful start to a new life. Congratulations Sussex family!

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  112. Harry in front of the cameras talking about his wife and new son is priceless. Acknowledging the horses is for us to die for, until we get to see the family on Wednesday. This is wonderful, wonderful news.

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  113. I love the name Spencer and it would be wonderful if Diana's family were honoured in this way. Equally it would be fine to use Philip to honour Harry's grandfather. Then again, if they put Thomas in there somewhere, it could smooth things out with Meghan's family. But given how Harry and Meghan do things their own way and march to their own drummer, then the name may not be traditional nor honour anyone.

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  114. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 18:49

    The talk about Meghan as a geriatric mother reminded me that my mother had me, her only child, at age 40. Her mother married at age 35 to a man aged 55 (in 1907!) and had five children, with the last one at when she was 47 (and lived to be 99). My grandfather would have been 98 when I was born, but died the year before, having been born in 1855. HIS father was born in 1797 and married in 1850. These are geriatric parents!

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    1. Allison, my mother had her first child at age 37, her next at age 43 and her last at age 47. Hers was a late marriage and well before any kind of medical help with fertility. She lived to be 91. Today, for obvious reasons, many doctors don't use the term "geriatric pregnancy" anymore. Instead, when a woman is pregnant over the age of 35, doctors describe her as of "advanced maternal age." The rates of women having their first babies in their 40s have actually doubled.since 1990.

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    2. I was 35 when I had my baby. On every receipt from the dr. they checked off "geriatric pregnancy". It was quite amusing to be called geriatric at age 35. Good thing I'm not extra-sensitive! Is the medical terminology apparently

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  115. I wonder if they announce the name tomorrow, ahead of the photo op on Wednesday? No new parents want to hear people's opinions on the names that have been chosen, especially first-hand from the press.

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    1. Since it will be only one journalist and somebody of their choice there won’t be any comments. The same way Harry just couldn’t help himself he wanted to share the news of the birth instead of a formal press release, I think they want to share the names themselves.

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  116. Allison in US6 May 2019 at 19:57

    I have to get to work but I'm so happy things turned out so perfectly that I can't stay away!!

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  117. Simply delighted to see him so happy! There is a softness, an openness to him that I really like.

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  118. Welcome baby Sussex boy and congratulations to these lovely parents! Harry looks sooo happy, and am very happy for them, too. I must admit it came as a surprise,
    coz I thought it was a girl, but the main thing is that he and Meghan are healthy and doing well. My guess for the name: James Philip Steven.
    Thank you Charlotte for your updates! Can't wait for others with his photo. Thanks, :) :)

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  119. Congratulations to everyone!!! What wonderful news! I can’t wait until Wednesday! And good on Harry for announcing the news himself.

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  120. Louise from NZ6 May 2019 at 21:01

    What lovely news to wake up to this morning! Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess.

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  121. Am I the only one who’s barely getting any work done today? :). I think I’ve watched Harry’s sweet interview about a dozen times!

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  122. Wondering if HM, Charles/Camilla, or William/Kate will call on them tomorrow before the pics on Wednesday?

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  123. Surely baby was not born in the stables. ;)
    The stables my favorite part. Beats hospital steps for originality. I think Harry was thanking the horse on the end who whinnied his approval--and whose name was apparently on the sign ..Sir John.
    Was this a hint for the baby name? Otherwise, I am puzzled over the locale Harry chose for his announcement, although I 100% enjoyed it.

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  124. A boy! I was so convinced the baby would be a girl that I hadn’t thought twice about boy names!

    I’m sticking to the idea that we’ll get a “classic with a twist” first name with some family middles. I’m thinking Theodore (with a fun nickname like Theo or Teddy) as the first, with Charles or Philip as a middle?

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Welcome to Mad About Meghan! We do so look forward to reading your thoughts. Constructive, fair debate is always encouraged. Hateful, derogatory terms and insults are not welcome here. This space focuses on Harry and Meghan, not any other member of the Royal family. It's not the place to discuss politics either. Thank you for reading, we look forward to your comments :)