Thursday 28 September 2017

Harry and Meghan: Ten Stories from Their Whirlwind Week!

What a week it's been for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle! We've seen the couple's first official public appearance, Meghan supporting her prince at the opening ceremony, a tireless week of royal work from Harry and headlines generated all over the world. Tonight, we're chatting about ten of the many stories we think you'd be interested in!


Harry Visited Meghan on the Set of Suits... Whilst Meghan has been busy supporting her boyfriend and seeing his royal role in action throughout his week in Toronto, Harry too was keen to see Meghan's workplace and paid a visit to the set of Suits last Wednesday before the games began. The visit was reportedly planned weeks in advance and much to the surprise of cast and crew he showed up to watch her filming scenes as Rachel Zane in season seven of the hit television series. A source told Hello!: "Meghan showed him around. Everyone was so excited."


Sky's royal reporter Rhiannon Mills also visited the set last week and shared this short video.


A Romantic Moment from the Opening Ceremony... Eagle-eyed reporter Patricia Treble was one of the first to tweet news Meghan was at the Opening Ceremony. She kept an eye on Harry and Meghan and noticed a very sweet moment :)



A Hotel Fit for Royalty... When the royals travel, it's always fun to take a peek inside where they are staying. It had been initially thought Harry would stay at Meghan's but given the intensity of his schedule and the need to liaise regularly with staff and hold private meetings, a centrally-located hotel seemed the most prudent option. That doesn't mean they haven't been spending time together; it's been reported both Harry and Meghan are staying in the stunning Fairmont Royal York - one of Canada's most prestigious hotels.


Opened on June 11, 1929, the Royal York was designed by Ross and Macdonald (with Sproatt and Rolph) and built by the Canadian Pacific Railway across the street from Toronto Union Station. With 28 floors, the Château-style building was the tallest building in Toronto at that time, and the tallest building in the British Empire until the construction of Canadian Bank of Commerce tower on King Street the following year. The hotel has been the residence of choice for Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the Royal family when in Toronto. The Queen usually has an entire floor reserved for her and her entourage, occupying the Royal Suite herself.


Like the Queen, Harry and Meghan are staying in the aptly named Royal Suite. The two-bedroom suite has a large living area featuring a wet bar and decorative non-functional fireplace. With a full dining room, this room can be used to easily entertain sixteen. Located on the 16th floor, it boasts a spectacular view of the city.


Take a look at the swimming pool...


Meghan Loves the Invictus Games... Meghan joined Harry courtside for the wheelchair tennis semi-final on Monday. Whilst chatting with cycling competitors he said: "She loves it. She's enjoying the games."


The 'Meghan Effect' Begins... We're seeing early signs of the 'Meghan Effect' in full swing following the global media attention the couple have received this week. Two friends, David Lochhead and Dane Butler who set up their own sunglasses brand Finlay & Co. have experienced the full force of the retail power of Meghan - selling over £20,000 worth of shades and experiencing several website crashes. Fans of the brand include Pippa Middleton, Zara Tindall and Rihanna. It's a brilliant boost for the business. Meghan's sunglasses remain available here.


Support from Competitors... There's been quite the talk on Meghan's appearance detracting from attention on the competitors during the Invictus Games. It would appear those participating certainly do not agree with that sentiment. Take a look at this report from ITV's Chris Ship...


A Hero Wins Silver at the Invictus Games... There are so many inspirational, courageous and incredibly brave competitors in Invictus. They have been through unspeakable times and overcome each hurdle they have faced with remarkable strength with true strength. One such man is triple amputee Mark Ormond, who claimed second place for Team UK's rowing event at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. Mark, a former Royal Marine, was serving in Helmand Province on Christmas Eve in 2007 when he knelt on a bomb and the explosion ripped off both legs and his right arm. He is the UK's first triple amputee to survive the Afghanistan conflict. Speaking after winning, the father of three said he was "proud" of his performance and described Invictus as "truly phenomenal". Afterwards, Kensington Palace tweeted: "Prince Harry first met Mark in 2008 in Headley Court and tonight had the honour of awarding him a silver Invictus Games medal."


Harry Shows He's a Natural with Kids... A truly delightful event last night as Harry watched the volleyball and shared his popcorn with two-year-old Emily Henson, the daughter of a British Army veteran who lost both his legs in Afghanistan. Dave Henson is a former Royal Engineer and captained the UK team at the first Invictus Games in 2014. I think one can safely assume Harry is going to be one fun dad :)


A Powerful Speech... Speaking of Prince Harry's work in Toronto, it has extended beyond the Invictus Games. He gave a passionate speech to young people at WE Day celebrations in which he encouraged them to look up from their phones and stand up for what they believe in.


Harry said:

 "In today’s world too many people feel cynical and apathetic. I get that the challenges we face sometimes seem complex and even scary, especially when we don’t know who to turn to for answers. I know that while this generation of young people wants to make our world a better place, you often struggle to get your voices heard. I know that you, more than any previous generation, care deeply about the health and sustainability of the planet you're going to inherit. And I see that you’re frustrated - that entrenched mindsets - are not keeping pace with the urgency - of the threats to our environment. But today you are all saying no to pessimism and cynicism. Here in Toronto - with both WE day and the Invictus Games - we are saying yes to optimism, yes to hope, and yes to belief. And we are putting service and giving back at the heart of everything that we do." 
You know that differences of opinion, of circumstance, of race and religion - are to be respected and celebrated. You know that in a clickbait culture, we cannot waste time sharing and drawing attention to things that make us angry, or that we know to be false. You all know that it’s great to "like" things on social media, but that it’s more important to look up from our phones, to get out into our communities, and to take real action; to stand up for what you believe in."

Canada was a founder member of the Commonwealth in 1931 and the Royal family enjoys an enormously warm relationship with the country. Over the past week it has struck me how vital it is for the royals to foster that relationship; it's clear to see Harry doing just that in focusing on as many organisations and causes as he can throughout his stay. He has been greeted and welcomed with so much affection everywhere he has gone, it's been amazing to see how Canadians have embraced the younger generation of the Royal family. Given Meghan's close association with the country, I suspect the first port of call on their royal tour itineraries, should they marry, will be an easy decision to make.


Will We See Meghan at the Invictus Games Again?... We are certainly hoping for a surprise appearance tomorrow! I think Harry and Meghan have been carefully balancing their appearances whilst keeping the focus on the athletes. It would be great to see Meghan join Harry to view another event before the games wrap up. I think it quite likely she will attend Saturday night's closing ceremony. It promises to be a fantastic night with performances from Bruce Springsteen, Bryan Adams and Kelly Clarkson.


With that, I would like to welcome our new readers and say a word of thanks to those who have contributed to the conversation. It's been one fun week for royal watchers and it's not over yet! :)

102 comments:

  1. Charlotte this is a fantastic post! What a great idea, honestly you just keep getting better and better :)

    I hope we see her one more time (at least!) and I have to say Harry is really on this week, it's so impressive. If this is what finding Meghan has done for him then I cannot wait to see it continue. Because it is everything a public servant should be. Just WOW!

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    1. +1 and a big wow!!

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    2. Agree with you 100%, Claudia - this is what I was hoping to see from young, matured, adult Royals....... This kind of actions, this attitude, this interaction with others - this is exactly what will make them relevant in today´s days AND the future....
      And some "rockstar appeal" (see Harry´s reception when he made his surprise appearance onstage "WE" - WOW!!!!) will do the British Monarchy SO GOOD! I know I will have "all bricks coming down on me" in a minute, but this is what we need for a modern monarchy - members of the "Firm" taking over different roles (one for the more "conservative", one for the more "modern", etc, etc, like in any well-run "Firm" where you have different people for different functions) and thus "speaking to" different groups of society.

      Personally, although I´m conservative in many of my values, I LOVE Harry and Meghan and the "modern vibe" they bring with them. Take for example Meghan´s clothes on their joint appearance: I´m not a fan of ripped jeans - but on Meghan it looked GREAT. Her styling was just cool - why on earth should she change her styling to " royal conservative" (if I may call it like that) when she´s possibly marrying HARRY (of all people)? I mean he´s the proverbial "red-head" (and I don´t mean that in a negative way!), he´s always been and probably always will be. And why not? Society today is multi-faceted and if that is represented in the respective monarchy, then you can see that it´s still doing its job and is "sound and healthy"!
      Harry, you rock!

      My praising Charlotte´s exceptional work can be read further down... ;-)))

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    3. Eve, :), yippee. you have The Firm concept down to a T. Diversified, relevant, effective but cohesive. And Harry is getting his part down to a T also. Innovative and dynamic. He was sitting with the crowds, mingling with the crowds (albeit enabling a sweet, young popcorn snatcher in the process), hugging those in the crowds, doing selfies with basically whoever could be fit in. Championing platforms where the public can have dynamic future-changing capability where they would before have had none. The Queen and Phillip must be awakening every morning, more hopeful each day, eager to watch Harry touching lives in such a positive way. Much better than those nights where they may have had warranted concern for Harry and his future. He made it through all that with flying colors and has the compassion to share because of it and it shows. yay

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    4. Eve you're absolutely right (and so was your comment below!) Harry was off the charts really wasn't he? And still is, it's not over yet!

      And what I just loved about this post, as you said below, it tied up all the things that people might have missed during a very busy week, love the "top 10" format of it, just fantastic! It shows what Harry was up to and how it was being received - Chris Ship's interview was really the best.

      All I can say is keep this going Harry! Also - If you haven't seen it the speech from the WWII vet last night was amazing. Such a tribute to Harry and his work. Anyway enough from me! But this is great work to see from a royal and a bit overdue frankly, it's as life changing as the Prince's Trust.

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    5. Claudia

      I loved your comparison to the Prince's Trust. I think H does and did a marvellous job. I am sure Prince Charles is really proud too.

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  2. It has been a great week. I wish there were more television coverage!

    I'm also getting the glasses. And I have a 10% off coupon. That's $18 and I'm not splitting it with surfer girl even though she gave me the link.

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    1. No problem. All's fair in love and designer sunglasses, bluhare. :)

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    2. I love those glasses too, what about me?:)))))

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    3. You did not give me the link, nor did you tell me how wonderful I will look in them, Anett. Nothing for you!!

      And thank you surfer girl. I don't know why but I had a feeling I'd be fighting you over it. :)

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    4. You all are so funny! With all this talk of glasses, I'm seriously considering getting some myself. And I usually don't ever consider actually buying any of Kate or her things bc I can't afford their things. Can someone give the link (& coupon)? Thamks😉

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    5. Haha, you are killing me here bluhare (alias you and your friend Camilla):))

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    7. lol. you definitely dodged one there, bluhare. :)
      I was in a good mood yesterday. :)

      (I apologize if this is a duplicate. my first text didn't post. yet, anyway.)

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    8. Kay they did the same thing to me ;) I just clicked to get them bluhare (trying to keep up with you lot!) and it says sold out now! I hope you beat me to it :)

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    9. You guys have better not messed up my coupon! I haven't ordered them yet; I have to wait until a check hits my account!

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    10. Keep trying you guys. they said in an interview with one of the owners of Finlay and Company in People today that their orders are backed up through October and that they've flown to Italy to speed things up with their manufacturer. True shoppers never give up. lol

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    11. I can confirm they're back ordered until November.

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    12. Hello Kay,

      Yes the closing ceremony begins in a couple of hours. We are hoping for another Meghan sighting :)

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  3. Two busy blogs now? And you're killing it with both of them! Did your life just get twice as busy, Charlotte? :) Hope you get extra help if there's a royal wedding AND a new little Prince or Princess both happening in 2018! :) Thank you for your beautiful, sincere, thorough, informative, and fun blogs! ❤

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  4. with Kate unfortunately "off the radar" at the moment, Meghan and Harry certainly kept us entertained! Thank you for this interesting post.. let's hope for more appearances.. hi to all the commentators :)

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  5. Hope to see her one more time at the games and of course at the closing ceremony

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    1. Rhea. emphasis on the closing ceremony 💍. Juuust kidding. :)

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    2. surfer girl, as much as I sometimes roll my eyes at you (I do, I can't lie) I also think you have one of the sunniest and happiest dispositions on the blog. And please take that as the huge compliment that it is. It's not your fault I'm cold hearted and mean and can't handle all your upbeatiness!

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    3. I truly understand bluhare. :) And roll your eyes all you want. I am more than used to that kind of response, lol. My family has made it a sport.

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    4. and, thank you, bluhare. that's special.X :)

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    5. p.s. I in no way perceive you as cold hearted and mean. (don't worry I won't blow your cover.) :)

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    6. I only roll my eyes when you're being very chirpy over something/one I'd like to push off a cliff, surfer girl. You're just so cheerful and I may be many things, but cheerful is not one of them!

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    7. I believe you do have your moments. :)

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  6. Charlotte, Thanks so much for new articles on both blogs today! These are my go-to sites for fun news☺ Really appreciate all your work.

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  7. Excellent post! Thanks for pulling it together.

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  8. Rhonda - Wisconsin, how did it go? :)

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  9. Rhonda - Wisconsin29 September 2017 at 04:52

    Hi everyone!! We attended Wheelchair Rugby tonight and watched the USA take bronze, U.K. take silver and Denmark take gold. It was amazing, electrifying, and exhausting!!! We were on the edge of our seats the whole time!! I've seen more awesom in this week than I've seen in a long time!!!

    I met a triple amputee from Great Britain that was a double medal winner in track and field. I sat in the Aussie cheering section during their rugby match against Denmark and had a fantastic time cheering them on.

    We met two veterans from Canada - one was 94 and one was 101. Amazing men and very proud Canadians.

    Finally, I did get my pictures of Prince Harry when he took time to meet the 101 year old veteran. I was about two feet from him. It was fantastic! I did a little happy dance when I got back to my seat. As soon as we get home, I will share with Charlotte.

    As happy as I am about that, I have to say this has been quite an experience. It's humbling and inspiring to meet these men and women that have overcome their injuries - both seen and unseen - in their service to their country and it was an awesome experience. I'm taking away lots of great memories but also more appreciation (and I had a lot to start with) of our men and women in the armed forces. They are undoubtedly true heros in this day and age. We all owe them a huge debt for all they have given and for all they continue to give. I am sincerely humbled by them all.

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    1. What a great story, Rhonda. So glad you got your picture of Harry and I had no idea that was you in the crowd!!! :)

      And I bet seeing those matches was amazing. I've seen clips, but it looks fast and brutal. Those people (was going to say guys - were women on the teams?) take no prisoners!

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    2. Rhonda. wow. Thank you for such a moving, inspiring and heartwarming update. So beautifully shared. :). Certainly the photo with Harry obviously somehow pales in comparison to the event itself but it is still exciting. A special momento for someone who definitely has her heart with the veterans, a more-than-appropriate momento. :). So cool that you got to share that moment with a 101 year old veteran. How cool is that? Happy dance, happy dance for sure. I am so happy for you. Thanks for sharing.X

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    3. Let me echo bluhare's sentiments Rhonda! So glad you've had such an experience and thanks for sharing it :)

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    4. Thank you so much for sharing Rhonda!

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    5. You are so lucky to visit, Rhonda. Look forward to your pictures.

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    6. yes. I hope we get to see those. :)

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    7. Rhonda. I just saw photos in the Daily Mail of Harry speaking to a 101 year old veteran. The veteran was in a wheelchair. Was that the man you spoke to? There were two women shown in the photo. One with blonde hair and a longer black jacket (taking photos with her cell phone) and one seated on the bleachers with brown hair and a pinkish sweater. If you don't mind my asking, is either one you? Not to worry. It is totally understandable if you want to remain anonymous picture wise. The veteran looked so very happy to be speaking with Harry. :)

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    8. I wondered if the blonde lady was Rhonda too!

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    9. Rhonda - Wisconsin30 September 2017 at 00:54

      Hey Surfer Girl. Neither were me. That was the veteran I mentioned. He was so sweet - actually spent some time chatting at him after. My Mother-in-Law is 95 and was a Rosie the Riviter during WWII and we spoke about that. His wife was also there and she is 94. Their daughter was taking them around. Lovely people.

      I was right next to the photographer taking the pictures for the news so I am not in any photos. Besides - my camera was practically glued to my face. LOL. I would have loved to shake PH's hand, but it was time for that family, not me. There was a woman right next to me that shoved her way in and did shake his hand - he gave her a really confused "...and you are???" look. Some people....

      It's now 6:50 pm on Friday night and we are almost home. Tomorrow I will upload my photos and send to Charlotte. Night all!!

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    10. Oh Rhonda, I´m so glad you could get "your glimpse" of Harry!!! :-))))
      Thanks so much for sharing these "first-hand" stories from the games...
      I agree with you, some people.....
      Can´t wait for your photos!
      And I´m so glad it seemed worth all your efforts and the long drive!!

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    11. Rhonda, that was so sweet. Loved your camera comment. Thanks for letting us know you weren't in that photo. So very much looking forward to seeing your photos. :)

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  10. I echo what florida girl said. Your blogs are wonderful and so informative!

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  11. Great post and article! Thanks a lot!

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  12. Dearest Charlotte,
    if anyone at KP has any brains and if so, has at least SOME sense in it, they will hire you as Chief of communications A.S.A.P. Simple as that.
    This post is "Royal Marketing" AT ITS BEST.
    You want to make people fall in love with their Royal Family? Inform your public like THIS POST DOES. It is EXCELLENT. WOW, Charlotte, JUST WOW!
    Of course, it needs people like Harry (and Meghan), who give you the input you can work with (excellent speeches, photos, interaction with other people, etc, etc) - but HOW you work with that is just as important.
    KUDOS to you, Charlotte!! You are one VERY gifted woman!!

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    1. "If anyone in KP has brains". Love that, Eve. lol
      WHEN have they ever given you reason to doubt??
      And I wholeheartedly agree. This is truly "The Bentley of Blogs" and an asset to the Royal Family, Journalism, Britain and the whole "tired of sketchiness" world. Not to mention that William and Kate and now Meghan and Harry have the very best family album/diary there could be and it's comprehensive and right at the ready. 🎉

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    2. OK, gotta be honest. I eye roll over Bentley of Blogs.

      Signed,
      Porsche of Posters

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    3. LOL, LOL. "Porsche of Posters". That you are bluhare. That you are. It fits.
      You are so funny. Such a joy. Inimitable. There's only one bluhare.X
      (Uh hum, there is certainly an element of cheerfulness in your humor you know, but I won't tell anyone.)

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    4. P.S. we could say gold standard but "Bentley of Blogs" has more of a British ring to it don't cha think? I like it. :)

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  13. I don't usually comment here and won't for the most part until such time as there is an engagement - but I did feel as a lawyer myself I wanted to comment on Harry's 'socialite' former girlfriends - unfavourably compared with Meghan in the last post.

    People seem to have forgotten that Chelsy was a trained lawyer - attempting to continue her studies whilst dating Harry which may have helped lead to the breakdown of the relationship - royal men like their girlfriends at their disposal. I liked Chelsy hugely for trying to keep up with her professional interests - to call her a socialite denigrates the extremely hard work reading law entails. Since then she has gone on to forge a career designing jewellery - she is as much an independent woman as Meghan.

    Cressida wishes to be a serious actress. Unlike Meghan who has gloried in her Harry connections, which has hugely advanced her importance from a being little known television actress - Cressida wanted to rise on her own merits on the stage and I believe she found the attention given to the relationship a burden.

    I don't fault Meghan for being ambitious - important in today's world, but she has used the relationship in a way her predecessors didn't and I do think they shouldn't be unfavourably compared for seeking a career without using the royal connection. Meghan is very well educated and seems to have a passion for important causes but there is nothing that says Chelsy and Cressida couldn't have done as well - except neither liked being in the royal fishbowl.

    As for Meghan's appearances at the games - I think the balance was right.

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    1. I completely agree about Chelsy who, I think, was treated unfairly by the press but I must disagree about Cressida. IMO, she used the Harry connection just as much if not more than Meghan. Yes, Meghan was a little known actress before she started dating Harry but she already was in Suits. She did not get cast in any movie or TV show based on that (the Vanity Fair cover is the exception of course but I think it's part of their media strategy before an engagement announcement). By contrast, Cressida has been handed magazine covers and fashion endorsments generally reserved to much more famous women, like Emma Watson or Cara Delevigne for Burberry.

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    2. I think that is plausible 16:02, although Cressida's mother is famous, (her father an aristocrat also). and Cressida's sister (the one that reportedly turned down romantic overtures from William) is married to Richard Branson's son. So she already kind of had certain connections.

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    3. Julia, I don't believe that Meghan has "used" Harry, although I do think she wants and enjoys the attention from being his girlfriend. I felt a similar vibe with Sarah Ferguson.

      Cressida was a short chapter in his life and, frankly, I always suspected that she would be; I had the impression that she was not completely besotted with him (certainly not enough to take on the baggage).

      Chelsy, well, I always found it interesting that she was considered an independent gal when, in reality, she had many of the same benefits that Kate was blessed with. And while Kate met her prince in her own "backyard", Chelsy's parents were making it possible for their daughter to date her prince in another country. Chelsy did decide to study law (at a time when Waity Katy headlines were the flavor of the day), and then ended up with an apprenticeship with the law firm that represents the RF. Mere coincidence? I'm thinking no. And she gave up a career in law to design jewelry? I realize that people do have epiphanies and decide to pursue their dreams, but would she be as willing to toss it away if she was still paying student loans? And would her jewelry sell if there was no prior connection to Harry?

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  14. Julia just want to know what makes you think Meghan has "used" Harry ??
    The VF story was done with the blessing of Kensington palace .

    Besides that she has gone off radar - No public appearances ( I'm sure she's being invited more so now to many events ) , she's closed her website and is not using twitter and instagram anymore . She also ended her deal with Reitmens . All of these are lucrative for her .
    If she wanted she could cash in on all of these and be sighted by the paps ( easy for her ) if she wanted to increase her profile .

    Meghan is just going about her life and career as discreetly as possible .

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    1. Julia from Leominster29 September 2017 at 15:33

      We aren't certain who gave permission for the Vanity Fair article - Kensington Palace just means Harry gave the okay - if in fact he did. It is believed Buackingham Palace and Clarence House did not know about it - and weren't happy. Personally, I thought the commenting on her relationship that way inappropriate and very Princess Michael - the most outspoken of the royals - although she would argue she needs to be. I would have been equally shocked if Kate had done that. With that went the suggestion the royal family was 'introducing' Meghan officially which is nonsense - (and was backed away from - with subsequent statements her work arranged it.)

      She is putting herself forward in a way no previous girlfriend did for her own advancement - she has also used the attention her new high profile relationship has given to pose with other actresses, write letters, make coy (and not very tasteful) hints about her relationship before she finally closed her blog - something along with her commercial contract that was going to be an absolute necessity if she wanted to marry Harry. I would never use the word discreet in connection with her. Quite the opposite. I've never seen any former royal girlfriend so much in the news.

      Is she using Harry cynically - I trust not. She is simply a high-profile woman by nature. And she's not the first girlfriend to gain attention. Although Cressida seemed to want to advance her career independently she was on the cover of Tatler. Chelsy went to school to design jewellery but it could be her time with Harry opened doors - even if she was only a trainee lawyer during their time together. Kate used that boat race during her break with William to stay in the news.

      But to say Chelsy and Cressida were merely socialites is simply wrong. As a retired lawyer, I was offended by that. And yes, I've gone from cautiously liking Meghan to thinking there is far too much noise about a marriage - and too little clarity where it is coming from - every time there is a possible lull something new happens - rumours she's met the queen and countless other hints and speculations. We know things like this get fed to the press.

      Will I come to like Meghan in the end - if there is a marriage. Time will tell. Royal ladies change a lot. I wouldn't have thought I would be as great a fan of Sophie Wessex and Letizia of Spain as I am now - both had rocky starts. Kate has proved something of a disappointment to me - although even before the marriage I was cautious about her lack of outside employment. So all I will say is I'm not enthusiastic about the pace of this romance but hope it will work out in the end.

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    2. I respect ur opinion even if I don't agree with some points . Each to their own . 😊

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  15. Really beautiful and enjoyable post, Charlotte. I echo others here praising your dedication & work ethic in giving us two wonderful blogs...you're one talented lady!
    This post is one of my favourites ever...it really encompassed some of the amazing moments from the very successful (IMO) Invictus Games this year. It was touching to see Harry presenting triple amputee Mark Ormond with his silver medal - what an incredible achievement! The picture of NZ Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata greeting Harry with a hongi (Maori greeting) is another highlight. Little Emily eating Harry's popcorn was too cute - he'd definitely make a cool dad! :) And of course, Harry's empowering speech - he's really found his groove & it's great to see him able to share it with someone special. I also want to praise all the inspiring competitors & their families/supporters - their attitude is a testament to the success of these Invictus Games.
    Thank you again, Charlotte, for being the fantastic blogger that you are! x

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    1. I so agree Kiwi Gal :)

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    2. I agree. Harry really shines when he's passionate about something, and it's obvious he's passionate about this.

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  16. These athletes! Wow! They are amazing and, oh so, sacrificial. Their ENTIRE lives have been changed for the rest of their days on earth because of their willingness to protect our freedoms. Prince Harry is making such a positive influence in this world. His father & the Queen must be so proud of him. I bet Kate is happy, too, that the media focus is off of her for the moment. Then again, she may be too sick to care. Continued prayers for her & these brave servicemen & women!

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  17. I just love seeing Harry more in the spotlight and the impact he's having. What a great speech and that video with him and the little girl is so cute. I really think he's come into his own in the last year, and his passion is infectious. Meghan will hopefully join him one last time at the games. I think they're striking a good balance with appearances. It will be interesting (and fun) to see how things move forward. This is a welcome injection of positivity into what has been a rather dark global atmosphere.

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  18. Hello,

    I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who left incredibly kind and encouraging comments. I am delighted you are enjoying the blog :)

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    1. You are most welcome, our "trusty scribe". 🙇🏻‍♀️
      I think I can safely say that we all send you one humongous heartfelt and loving HUG, VOILA' ❤️
      (Did you get it? lol) (and a nice big HUG for Mr. Charlotte too for sharing you all's time with us and for his so very innovative contributions on the event and seasonal headers. They are so special.) :)
      All-around excellence. :)

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    2. Did you get it, Charlotte??? :)

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    3. You are sure getting lots of hugs on this page from a lot of us Charlotte. Are you receiving them, we hope? (We have seen firsthand this week that the British reserve allows hugs.) No pressure. :)

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  19. Ya know, being the master of the obvious that I am, :),
    I just realized that if Meghan cancelled out early on her lease on her vehicle in Toronto then most likely she will not be filming season 8 of Suits, if there is a season 8 of Suits. And they reached their 100th episode so that means, I think, that they will now go into syndication for reruns and the Suits group will get residual income from that. So there may not be a season 8. I don't know. That's why the reaching the 100th episode is such a big deal though if I understand it correctly. Perpetual income for that group. Also, it seems bluhare read right when she said she'd heard they were on break from season 7 awhile back. Apparently they've resumed that now as confirmed in the narrative above (and other places, the specific ones I don't recall at the moment). Still confusing though. Surely Meghan wouldn't have cancelled out early (financial penalties for that?) on her lease if she planned on staying around in Toronto after November. I read somewhere that her Toronto home is a rental so that should not be an issue. No staying around to sell the house. Not to sound wishy washy but when taking all that into account, along with rumors that Meghan said she returned her vehicle because she'll be in London, a Christmas engagement does not seem out of the question.
    (93 days and counting........🎄💍. Unless of course it happens at the closing ceremony...........
    Juuust kidding. I'm handling this all much more maturely now. um humm)

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    1. I'm going to say he'll propose before the end of November.

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    2. If you don't mind my asking. :)

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    3. Surfer girl, "Suits" creator Aaron Korsh said in an interview, that it´s "pretty likely" we will get a season 8, but he cannot say WHO will be on it as "They all have things going on in their lives, we’ll see what happens. This is true on all long-running shows, and people have things happening in their lives"..... So this might be an indication that Meghan could be one of the characters NOT being on season 8 as she most certainly "has things going on in her life" (ahem...)...
      As far as the lease car is concerned, yes, there usually ARE "fines" if you want to give back your car early, but as it is a "VIP" car, given by the manufacturer also for promotional reasons, they will most certainly NOT charge anything.
      Of course, I don´t know whether Harry has already proposed, but for me, her age combined with the fact that they both want to have children, is somehow the "foot on the accelerator" so to speak. Let´s assume he proposed in Africa and they will make the announcement in November, with a wedding in spring (April/May). They go on honeymoon and have a "honeymoon baby". Even if that happens, Meghan will be 37 when the baby is born. Even though women are older these days when they have their first child, it would still be considered a "risk pregnancy" due to her age. And she would be even older with a second or third child...
      So imagine they move in together in November, try it for 6 months, then get engaged in the summer, with a wedding the following spring (can´t imagine Meghan would follow "good old British Royal Family tradition" and marry in November... brrr...). Then she would be at least 38 when the first baby is born....
      I´m not saying it´s impossible and I´m not saying women shouldn´t have children after a "certain" age - it´s just that the risk of not being able to conceive rises quite dramatically after you reach 35, as well as the risk of complications during the pregnancy and for the baby (like e.g. Down Syndrom). So it´s really the question to find the right compromise between getting to know each other (and life as a royal wife) better and not waiting too long to have children....
      Somehow I think he´s already proposed and the engagement will be announced before Christmas, when she´s stopped filming and completed her move to London, but that´s just a feeling I have.....

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    4. I should clarify. I think he's proposed already. They'll announce in November, and as to when I'm not sure. Maybe toward the end around his grandparents' anniversary. It's 70 years, right? Jeez, I can't imagine being married to Mr. bluhare that long.

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    5. Eve-check the official Suits site. It is rather vague but there is a definite statement that "Suits will be back in January." There is a clip you can view. Sarah Rafferty is in it but not Meghan I believe. The site is rather a mish-mash with past season info and clips intermingled with current info. I do believe that it said "January, 2018" on the clip.
      There were to be 16 episodes in season seven. According to the official site, Number 10, the "100th," was aired August 30-31. At one episode per week, it should put us up to around episode 13- or 14. There is a promo/clip for episode 12 available but I'm not sure when it was posted. Three or four weeks left of airing SS. I imagine any filming being done at this late date is for post-production, voice-overs, and publicity clips. Series rarely and only in an emergency air the same week or even month they are filmed because of the need for editing and whatever re=takes may be necessary prior to airing.
      Whether this clip for January is a season eight intro or not...not said. Usually the Winter season begins in January.
      I consulted a list of films and television series currently filming in Toronto/ Ontario. Since there was no current date on the page it is hard to tell what is going on now. I was amazed at the number of "Hollywood" productions filmed there, however.

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    6. "foot on the accelerator", LOL. Eve, :),
      thanks for the info on "Suits" and the rental car VIP thing. I appreciate it. :)
      Your very thoughtful consideration of their options makes perfect sense to me also, although I am NOT ruling out a proposal or announcement amidst his cherished family of veterans at the closing ceremony, 💍, being ever the romantic in stories like theirs that I am. :)

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    7. bluhare, If I remember correctly, I think you said before that you think Kensington Palace will announce the engagement, then there will be a photo op with a few questions fielded, then an interview like the one William and Kate did. Knowing British protocol, I think you are right, provided the closing ceremony doesn't hold some anticipated sweet surprises for us. :)

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    8. 17:17. Seems like "Suits" either likes generating interest by being very obtuse about their filming schedule or else, like Kensington Palace, they could use a better PR team.

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    9. Anonymous at 17:07: That´s the preview for the 2nd part of season 7. Mid-season finale aired on September 13th, the 2nd part of season 7 will start in January (they are currently filming it). As far as "the internet knows", no confirmation for a season 8 yet. ;-))

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    10. Dee, Adelaide AUSTRALIA7 October 2017 at 07:42

      I 100% agree with everything Eve from Germany said. Having my 1st (and sadly only child) at 41, after trying for 9 years, I think time definitely will come into their decision to marry. I agree, I think they’re already engaged, and were waiting until after the wonderful games to officially announce it. I think it will be any day now. They look blissfully happy, they share so many of the same values, and it’s time to see our gorgeous Prince with the woman he loves by his side. She is confident in the public eye, and she has made him so happy. Can’t wait to see her as his beautiful bride.

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  20. Jessica in Los Angeles29 September 2017 at 21:44

    This was a wonderful post!

    I'm particularly struck by Harry's joy and fondness for everyone this week. He's always polite and friendly, but these are people he clearly loves and cherishes (the veterans). It's so clear how much he respects them and enjoys being around them. I'm sure he counts it an honor to be involved with these games, and it really shows.

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  21. I was impressed with Harry's speech at the WE event. He has conducted himself professionally and with aplomb this week. Bravo.

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  22. Rhonda - Wisconsin30 September 2017 at 01:01

    Charlotte - I would also like to echo others that have posted - your blogs are both amazing and I truly enjoy all of your posts. You are my go to girl for anything Kate or Meghan related. Simply put - you are just the best!!! A big hug to you from me. 😊💕💜👏

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  23. Guess who Harry brought to the games this evening?
    Wait for it.............Batak Obama. Yep. Barak Obama.

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  24. And they were joined by Joe Biden and his wife. Michelle was not in attendance. I wonder if Meghan will get to met Harry's guests. :)

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  25. Julia from Leominster30 September 2017 at 06:50

    For whatever reason, my computer won't respond individually - Unknown, I was no fan of Cressida, as those who were following this blog at the time know. I know she was trying for an acting career before she dated Harry - and did say she wanted to be considered on her own merits but I also do think she got advantages from the relationship. If there has been all this marital talk about her, I would have been much concerned too.

    I don't understand though why a potential royal lady would need to be 'introduced' in an American celebrity magazine. I suppose I'm old-fashioned that way and still thinking the traditional place for engaged women to be introduced is the frontispiece of Country Life.

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    1. Julia, I don´t think this interview/article was planned as an "official introduction" of her AT ALL.
      We all have to bear in mind that articles for magazines like VF are usually planned about 6 months ahead of publication. So I am sure the article/interview originally was planned as a promotional article for "Suits" as it marked its 100th episode.
      I am sure, though, that Meghan asked Harry/KP whether it was ok to answer any questions about the relationship. That´s the part which I´m sure Harry gave his "ok" to.
      VF, of course, given the media hype, particularly after that trip to Africa, made it all about the relationship - instead of it probably just having been a "sidenote" in the whole interview compared to the rest of the content.
      I have had the "honour" of taking part in a televised discussion with a rather famous talkmaster which gives me some insight into how things work with the media... Unless you are "live", EVERYTHING is edited to suit THEIR storyline... You say things that are PERFECTLY sensible and you talk about GREAT subjects - if it´s not what they had in mind, they just cut you out or just show the bits and pieces that fit their narrative. It´s quite amazing when you compare what was shown on TV with what you´ve actually said and heard... The same goes for magazine interviews...
      I´m sure, in due course, Tatler will have their "collector´s issue" like they did with Kate - and Meghan will be "properly introduced"....
      Until then I guess we can all lean back and have a nice cup of tea.... and "watch the story unfold"...

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  26. Another great post Charlotte. Much respect to all of the athletes. Hope to see Harry & Meghan sitting together at closing ceremony.NLopez

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  27. Julia -

    I suspect we are of the same generation. I struggle at times to understand the "social media" culture and the more casual and public approach they take to life. I'm also from the other side of the pond but am familiar with Country Life. Unfortunately, I suspect Vanity Fair is today's equivalent of Country Life - especially for the current generation of readers. I thought the Vanity Fair article was ill-advised but honestly don't think Megan is using this situation to boost her career. Other than "that" article, she seems to have removed herself from the media circus. I would be willing to bet, however, that the network publicity machine is behind a lot of the leaks and stories. They, after all, benefit the most from this media storm.

    I hope that Harry and Megan can withstand the pressure of all the speculation and make a decision that is right for them on their own time. We're all having fun watching this fairy tale romance from afar but they are living it and must make decisions which will affect the rest of their lives.

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  28. There is an article in The New York post today by Jennifer Wright, entitled, "Why Meghan Markle Should Absolutely Not Marry Prince Harry". As much as I have been a proponent of their having found each other, Jennifer very clearly brings up some valid food for thought concerning any impending marriage between the two. My hope is that, even though Meghan says she doesn't read "Meghan" news, I hope somehow she reads what Jennifer brings to the table.
    Definitely food for thought.

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    1. Surfer girl, I read the article, too. But you don´t have to marry into the Royal Family to "endure" what the author is describing.
      I read interviews with both Jennifer Lawrence and Lady Gaga - they talk about exactly the same thing. Jennifer Lawrence had people CAMPING on the front lawn of the house where she was living at the time - Lady Gaga was happy to be able to be on a very high-up floor in a hotel room with mirrored windows - so that she could actually look out of a window (like we all probably do many times during a day) without being seen by the hundreds and hundreds of fans screaming outside..... It´s a totally crazy world you enter, and haters of all sorts are never far away either....
      Meghan is intelligent, she has endured the scrutiny for some time now - mostly WITHOUT her Prince next to her even and WITHOUT royal security, so I guess she will have been able to think about whether that´s the life she has envisaged for herself - or not. I´m sure she and Harry will have been talking many, many times about "a life together" and what that could mean for both of them - Harry has heard his mother´s stories about how unprepared she was, as well, not only William.
      Grace Kelly had only met her Rainier twice or maybe three times before they got engaged - they led more a letter friendship, writing long letters and telephoning each other, than a "real" relationship. That´s not really comparable with Meghan and Harry, who - in my opinion - have seen each other much more often than we think/know during the last few months...
      Trust me, Harry had two long-term relationships, he experienced first-hand what happened to his mother - he would never ever rush a woman he cares about into anything she doesn´t want - and if he´s got the slightest doubt about whether she has thought this through carefully, he will address it - for her sake AND his own, if I may add....

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    2. Points well taken, Eve. Jennifer Wright's points are moot points then if Harry and Meghan have taken a look at all the variables. :) (uh, btw, are you sure you are not an attorney? lol)
      On the other hand, perhaps it will give some understanding and insight, for Meghan fans and those who may not be her fans, into the reality Meghan and others live with. I personally wasn't aware of those quotes from Cressida and Chelsey. I'm glad I am now.

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  29. Also, there is an article or two that I found concerning Meghan's security situation. The articles were very clear (and repetitive) in pointing out that Meghan is NOT, they say, receiving Royal protection, but is in fact receiving 24/7 protection provided by NBC, who "owns" the artistic property called "Suits". They have even installed security cameras on her home in Toronto. One of the articles showed how huge crowds have started gathering outside the "Suits" studio to try to get a glimpse of Meghan, making Jennifer Wright's article (mentioned above) even perhaps more germaine than ever.

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  30. OK, folks. When is the next Meghan siting?? I keep checking and hoping to see something but nothing. Is tonight the closing ceremony? I think I'm too excited about this;)

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  31. Yes. tonight is the closing ceremony. :)

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  32. WHEN are they going to start the ceremony already?
    lol

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  33. We wait so long and then just when it's time to give up, we get so much---three really exciting Meghan/Harry events. Even a mother and kisses and other friends. And now Harry has left Toronto and filming of "Suits" continues and we wait. I don't know if I can stand to wait for the ring and then for the move to the UK and then for the wedding (that should be great---lots of friends and relatives to chose from). And then the new home and babies---If the Clooneys could have two at their age, then perhaps Meghan and Harry can, too. There's IVF and surrogates, too, just in case.

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