Wednesday 30 May 2018

What to Expect from Meghan's 2018 & A Peek at a New Portrait!

Whilst Harry and Meghan are enjoying their honeymoon, we're chatting about their plans for the remainder of the year. But first, we have a sneak peek at a new official portrait of the couple. This morning, Her Majesty welcomed the Honorable George Brandis, the Australian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom for a private audience at Buckingham Palace. In the background, a previously unseen photo of the couple was visible.


Hello reports:

'With pride of place at the front of a table, the framed image shows Prince Harry and Meghan standing posing together. While Harry is dressed in a smart blue suit, his wife is wearing a pale fitted dress, with her hair down and straight. It is not clear when the image was taken, but it is likely to have been an official portrait taken by photographer Alexi Lubomirski as part of their engagement photoshoot in early December.'

Hopefully we'll see a high-res version of the image shortly!

When will we see Harry and Meghan next?

It is thought the couple will return from their honeymoon in time for Trooping The Colour, the Queen's Birthday Parade. It takes place on Saturday, 9 June this year. We can expect to see the couple travelling in a horse-drawn carriage procession before joining members of the family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. It's one of the few occasions on the royal calendar where so many immediate and extended family members assemble. 


It's always a splendid day filled with pomp and pageantry. 


First Solo Events & Meghan's Project

Speaking to Elle about the months ahead, royal commentator Omid Scobie said "Meghan is keen to start working as soon as they return from honeymoon. Meghan’s first solo engagements will see her visiting a number of small charities and grass roots organizations across the UK as she continues to decide what her first patronage will be. We know that she’s a keen feminist, it’s written in her official bio on the official Royal Family website—a first!—and she’s interested in issues that affect youth in the UK, such as gang culture. It will be exciting to see how she uses this very influential platform she now stands on." Where will her focus lie? Meghan will likely focus on issues concerning “young women and teenage girls. She is familiarizing herself with the landscape in this country,” says Lorraine Heggessey, chief executive officer of the Royal Foundation.


The Times reports:

'It is understood that the Duchess plans to spend the next six months discovering how to be an effective member of the royal family. She will tour the country and meet charities. It will be six months of listening. She is going to proceed with humility.
 It is not going to be quiet, though. It is going to be a very busy office. She has worked every day of her life. She is used to a demanding schedule.

There's also plans underway to unveil a special project Meghan has been working on for months. Omid Scobie continued:

"Meghan has said she’s keen to hit the ground running and I think we’ll see that as soon as they return from their honeymoon. She has quietly been working on potential projects, and sources say we’ll be seeing one of those come to life very soon. Meghan will spend the rest of the year taking on a number of solo engagements, visiting small charities across the UK before announcing a first patronage."

People writes: “She’s not going to want to be a quiet princess and simply open hospitals or cut ribbons,” Adds Meghan’s longtime friend and makeup artist Daniel Martin: “There is a lot of work ahead of her, and it takes a really strong person to fill those shoes. This is now a huge platform for Meghan to really get into the activism that she wants to do. She’s really stoked about taking on the role and trying to make change happen.”


The Queen's Special Adviser to Guide Meghan

Meghan will be guided in her first months as a royal by the Queen's assistant secretary Samantha Cohen. Although she is resigning from her current position, she has agreed to stay on as interim private secretary for Edward Lane Fox, Prince Harry's departing private secretary. The Times reports the Duchess has had several meetings with Ms Cohen, who briefed her on the Commonwealth and workings of the monarchy. The Mail on Sunday noted the move has been seen as a "personal gift" from the Queen to Meghan.

More from The Times:

'Samantha Cohen, the Queen’s assistant private secretary, gave notice of her resignation after the Queen’s private secretary, Lord Geidt, was ousted last year. Ms Cohen’s decision to stay on reflects the warmer relations between Buckingham and Kensington palaces than between Kensington Palace and the Prince of Wales’s household at Clarence House. It also has the blessing of the Queen and Prince of Wales.
 Both Prince William and Prince Harry are said to be fond of Ms Cohen. Lord Geidt, 56, who was well regarded by the Queen, left Buckingham Palace after disagreements with Clarence House. One source said: “He ran out of road with the younger generation,” a remark taken as referring to Prince Charles rather than William and Harry. He was succeeded by his deputy, Edward Young.'

Overseas Trips

Omid Socbie told Elle the couple have multiple overseas trips planned: “With Harry appointed by the Queen as Commonwealth Youth Leader and Meghan’s poignant inclusion of all 53 Commonwealth countries in the design of her veil, much of their joint work will focus on issues that span the entire Commonwealth Nation," Scobie said. “This, of course, means they will undertake a lot of travel over the next year. Kensington Palace says the next six months for Harry and Meghan will be ‘very busy’ so it’s no doubt going to be a challenging, but also very rewarding, time for the couple.”


Interestingly, we won't have to wait long at all to see two of these trips in action. Over the next couple of months, the couple are planning to visit Dublin for two-days, followed by their first official visit to The Netherlands. The Telegraph adds: "A trip to the Netherlands, would likely see the couple meet King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and their family, as well as visit key sights and charities reflecting causes including conservation, mental health and the Dutch Invictus Games team." We expect confirmation regarding both visits in the coming weeks. Of course, Meghan and Maxima will have much to discuss; the Duchess worked at the US Embassy in Beunos Aires, where Maxima was born.


Harry and Meghan's first large overseas tour will take place in October. They will travel to Sydney for the Invictus games before visiting New Zealand, Tonga and Fiji. Rebecca English reports "Their visits to Australia and New Zealand are particularly important as both are countries where Harry’s grandmother, the Queen, is still head of state. Both Fiji and Tonga, in the South Pacific, are also members of the Commonwealth and the prince has long wanted to visit them.'


British Summer Social Season

The British summer social season is jam-packed with events, several of which offer some of the best opportunities to see the royals "off duty". The first of these is polo season! Last week the Palace confirmed Harry and William will play in a number of matches throughout the summer. Last year, a stylish Meghan cheered her Prince on and I think it's safe to say we'll see her doing the same on at least a couple of occasions in the coming months. Dates to keep an eye on include the Gloucestershire Festival of Polo on 9-10 June. 


Royal Ascot runs from the 19-23 June this year. The Queen loves Ascot, and we always see a large turnout from the royal family at the racecourse. It would be very interesting to see Meghan's sartorial choices for the event. Below, Harry attending in 2016.

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Wimbledon (2-15 July), the annual highlight on the tennis calendar always promises a fortnight of unforgettable court action. Meghan attended a couple of matches in 2016 and given her close friendship with Serena Williams, it's possible we'll see her in the Royal Box this summer.

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One of Harry's closest friends since prep school, Charlie van Straubenzee spoke at the royal wedding. He shared a joke or two about Harry's "ginger locks" and received great applause for his "naughty" words. In August, Harry will have the chance to return the favour. The Evening Standard reports "Prince Harry will head to Surrey in August to be best man at fund manager Charlie van Straubenzee’s wedding to film-maker Daisy Jenks." Below, Charlie (in the middle) arriving for wedding with Prince George's godfather the Duke of Westminster.

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Autumn/Winter

Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank will marry at Windsor on 12 October, Harry and Meghan will depart shortly after that for Sydney. The Autumn/Winter schedule is always a busy one for the royals. We tend to see an abundance of glamorous dinners, gala evenings, festive events, and premieres during this period. We could very well see Harry and Meghan attending the Royal Variety Performance. We'll also see Meghan in Whitehall her first Remembrance Sunday event, and I expect, the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall. November will also bring celebrations marking the 70th birthday of The Prince of Wales. I imagine the Duke and Duchess will end the year with Christmas at Sandringham.


It's going to be a fascinating year!

131 comments:

  1. I saw that the official royal website had included "feminist" in Meghan's bio, as well as her involvement in Suits (which had been missing when they first created it). I think the Queen is really willing to let H & M do their thing, most likely because they're further away from the crown?

    The summer season promises to show us a lot about how Meghan will style herself as a duchess. Between polo matches and Ascot, alone, we could see a variety of looks! I'm crossing my fingers for at least one gown and tiara this autumn/winter.

    Well, it sounds like H&M are staying true to their word and will take on a heavy workload as soon as they return. I'd imagine Meghan would already have patronages picked out and is just fine-tuning/doing a touch more research before the formal announcement? Then again, I can't imagine how much there is to learn. The Queen's personal secretary sounds kind of intimidating. Also, I will never understand all the beef between the royal houses.

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    1. Whenever I hear about all the hullaballoo between the royal houses, I can't help but envision dogs marking their territory! lol :)

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    2. I'm sooooo excited about this summer with The Duke & Duchess of Sussex! Especially with Kate on maternity leave! We can focus on & get to know the Sussexes (sp?) & then we'll have Kate re-enter the scene this fall & it will be so full between The Cambridges & The Sussexes! I can't wait!!! :) I also may be over there filming in the UK during August or Sept..... so I'm pretty excited about that! :)

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    3. ๐ŸŒธ Becca @ 17:17. oooh yuck. :(

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    4. ๐ŸŒธ P.S. lol. and some thought “school marm” was bad. hmmph. ๐Ÿ˜ณ

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  2. yes a new article 8 days without my darling is difficult lol thank you Charlotte to give us news that allow us to wait, it looks like the duchess is going to have a lot of work and I like it! the events that I look forward to: those with Harry with a lot of PDA lol his solo commitments and the invectus

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  3. Hello Charlotte! Lovely job as usual. Any ideas as to where the couple are on honeymoon? I've heard the Canadian resort story has been debunked.

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    1. Hello,

      Apparently the Canadian lodge was a red herring. Emily Andrews confirmed they are on honeymoon, but the location has been kept under wraps. I'm sure we'll hear over the next week or so :)

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    2. That's so obvious ! They will never release there honeymoon location themselves and good for them!

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    3. Fiona in Australia31 May 2018 at 12:26

      Surely their honeymoon destination is in Africa somewhere. They have been there together before, and Harry regards it as his 'second home'. Although it's now the start of winter there, it's the best time for game viewing, as there is less foliage so better visibility for wild game spotting. (I know because I come from there originally, and that's when I would go!) I'm pleased that we don't know where they are, and no doubt we'll find out in due course. I hope they're having a relaxing time wherever they are, they deserve it!

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    4. Pam from Boston31 May 2018 at 15:21

      Or maybe....the Canadian story is true but got leaked, so now they're saying it was a red herring. That lodge does look very remote and isolated, and I thought I heard that the Queen owns the property or a piece of the property...so if that were the case it would be very private for them.

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    5. The plot thickens........ I just think honeymoons are lovely on a beach somewhere! That's just me! :) I was confused when the Canadian location was reported, but I thought hey, what do I know. Pam you make a good point too! Basically they could be anywhere! lol :)

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    6. I’m wondering how one goes about getting two public figures (plus luggage and accompanying staff) from their well-known home to a private vacation spot without being noticed.

      *Please note that this is rhetorical only - I’m not asking for actual secrets.*

      Do public figures have to resort to decoy cars and decoy people? How do you distract the photographers that I assume are always hovering around people whose pics earn them the most money? Do you fly away in a helicopter, land near a parking garge, and then hop into a nondescript car? However it's done, it must be an enormous relief to get to your destination.

      I hope that M&H have a perfect private honeymoon. They deserve it. And with the busy months ahead, they need it.

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    7. ๐ŸŒธ Heather. :) Don’t know. But Harry surely managed to do that after a certain point when dating Meghan, yeh? No more photos of her going to and from yoga. No more photos of her going to and from the grocery store. Very few photos after that point of Meghan or Harry visiting each other. Only photos they wanted released. They just, after a point, fell off the radar for months and months.
      How do they do that? I’m clueless about that except they have the clout and resources to accomplish just about anything and Meghan has the oomph to take control of the situation if given it. ๐Ÿ˜‰

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  4. I remember the photos of Meghan at the polo, and now a year later, she is married to her prince. What a year, and a turnout! I look forward to hearing from her choice of charities and projects.

    By the way, Omid Socbie has some close sources for sure!

    Thank for the update!

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    1. Anett.... it is pretty wild when you think about it! There we were just trying to get confirmation that they were an official couple & possibly serious?? If someone would have told us they would be married & enveloped lovingly into the royal family, as she in particular has been, before the next polo season?? I think we would have been like........ say whaaa????? They were pretty efficient with Everything!! I was just learning about her back then & now am such a huge fan of her & of course them as a couple!!! :) xoxo

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  5. I can't wait! Don't forget another wedding in October. And hopefully in the fall a special announcement too!

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    1. Yes thank you, I just added Eugenie's wedding :)

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    2. I'm also very much hoping there will be another "special announcement" during this year..... sooner rather than later! I was originally one who thought they should wait a year to get established in their new roles.... though after seeing them kick into gear & take on so much, I am like "bring on the babies"!!!! lol :) xo

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  6. ๐ŸŒธ wow. another excellent page, Charlotte. ๐Ÿค—
    What an extraordinarily busy calendar.
    One could get tired just reading about it all, lol.

    I had hoped that Harry and Meghan would get pregnant right away but with a calendar like that where would they ever find the time, lol.

    Don’t know that laying the groundwork so intensely during this year would be conducive to being pregnant and particularly with a first pregnancy.

    And, superwoman or not, having children will change the landscape of Royal and social calendars even if just slightly, although I think it will be more. Especially because I think that Harry and Meghan will be doting parents and will want family time like William and Kate have had. So it is good to have a busy year laying a foundation.

    AND, that new photo of Harry and Meghan?
    It replaced a photo of Anne and her husband Tim, lol. The audacity. (like Anne could give a hoot. Anne is Anne.๐Ÿ˜Š)

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    1. I mean she could still (if that is what they want) get pregnant right away. Their schedule wouldn't prevent anything. She would just be a few months when on their tour. Imagine a little bump at Eugunie's wedding. But who knows. They might want to spend this year just getting situated.

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    2. Preface, I think it’s so rude and presumptuous to ask a woman when she is getting pregnant....but I’m not actually asking Meghan, so I will totally chime in. I would not be surprised if she is pregnant by the end of the year. Unfortunately, age is a factor, especially if they want several children. In my mind, after Invictus would be good timing. If there were any morning sickness issues, they would kind of be masked by the holidays and then she could have the baby after all the spring family events, while it’s quieter in the summer. That would give her a solid year of working before she takes a break for baby. But that’s just in my head, of course!

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    3. Ordinary women get pregnant all the time with busy jobs. And barring a medicale cause i don't think it would stop meghan.

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    4. Fiona in Australia31 May 2018 at 12:31

      I agree Tinneke, I don't think a pregnancy (or even a small baby) will stop Meghan unless she is unwell in the early stages of pregnancy. I think she's strong, resilient and focused and will take everything in her stride. I can envisage them taking a very small baby with them wherever their work takes them. They make a great team and will have a lot of support around them of course.

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    5. I think this woman has shown she is not daunted by taking on new challenges! I'm a convert, as I used to be in the lane of thinking they should wait. I think they should do whatever they want! They will handle it all with the grace & ease that they have handled everything else so far! Accommodations can always be made, but pregnancy is different for each woman. As Tinneke points out, busy working women get pregnant & work through pregnancies all the time! I did it 4 times & I'm sure we all know many women who have done it! :)

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    6. ๐ŸŒธ We’ll see, lol. There could possibly be a honeymoon baby, yeh? ๐Ÿค—

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  7. I am SO excited to see all of Meghan’s outfits for all these upcoming engagements and tours!!
    Also, just read on US Weekly that the newlyweds have purchased a house in the Cotswolds.

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    1. I too am excited for everything, including the outfits! I'm so intrigued to see if her style really has changed now that she is HRH The Duchess of Sussex! Ohhhh..... a house in the Cotswolds would be lovely! :)

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  8. Omg I'm so excited for all the wonderful fashion she's about to bring out. And hopefully there will be a baby soon!

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  9. Everything sounds exciting from personal to professional. I think its great that Meghan has a true insider to help guide her through the protocol and pitfalls of being royal. I like that she will be busy and earnest in learning about the system while charting her own course. Sounds like they are building a solid foundation. I also like that Meghan is already meeting with organizations and most importantly building relationships. Relationship building is her forte.

    I'm also looking forward to the social season especially for her more colorful fashion choices. Hopefully we will see some candid shots with Meghan/Harry and also Kate at a polo match.

    I truly hope she goes to Holland with Harry. I have a strong feeling that she and Maxima will truly bond! I can't wait to see their overseas tours start!

    So much to look forward to.

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  10. Wow, sounds like it will be an incredibly busy year for the Sussexes! My personal hope is that we will see them out working more frequently than we see them at polo matches or posh weddings, tennis or movie premieres. I hope that when Meghan is having her "listening" meetings or other meetings with charities that we get pictures so we have evidence that she is out there working. What did QEII say once, you have to be seen to be believed! Just my personal preference/hope. I also don't think Meghan will be given as much slack as Kate was to take a year or two, living quietly in the country, to decide on 4-5 charities. I think Meghan will be held to a completely different standard and I want her to be successful, both in her role and in keeping the media on her side (not that she has much control over the latter, but you know what I mean...).

    Also, just personally, I also don't want them taking several "mini-honeymoons" throughout the rest of the year, like I've seen reported on in various places. Royals get enough downtime that there's no need for Harry and Meghan to take more time off. Assuming they left right after the garden party, that's more than 2.5 weeks to the Trooping the Color...so hopefully that will be it for an extended vacation. They'll have plenty of opportunities - like all the other royals - to have time off over the summer or quiet private time throughout the rest of the year. I want to see them working! (Don't mind me, this is just my preemptive worrying about how Meghan will be perceived and treated by the British press and public mood. I hope Harry and Meghan are aware as a couple that they will be treated differently then W&K, and Meghan especially so, IMO.)

    Charlotte, I'm not sure how much of what you've reported is confirmed behind the scenes, but it sounds like - assuming it's all correct info - that Meghan truly will be getting down to business straight away and plans to keep a busy calendar. I was heartened to read the comments from The Times (she has worked everyday of her life and is used to a demanding schedule). I also hope she/they as a couple are allowed to work as much as they want, and everything will be recorded officially on the BRF website. It was always so annoying to me that Harry did a lot of work that wasn't officially counted so his end of year numbers didn't accurately reflect how much work he was doing.

    Anyway, putting my worrying aside and on to more fun stuff. I would LOVE for them both to visit the Netherlands. Wow, the pictures, fashion, and pure sizzle from Maxima and Meghan would be off.the.charts! I hope the reports from NOS (which is a reputable paper, I believe) are true! I think NOS was the original source for this story, right? That Harry would be visiting because they want to bring Invictus there in 2020 (although I had read that IG was only scheduled to run 5 years so should be ended before 2020...?) And, please oh please let Meghan go as well. And please oh PLEASE let them get Dutch royal orders. Oh boy, how amazing would they look with a sash and big star thingy? Fingers crossed. I'm sure it's too soon, but a woman can dream.

    I also hope/assume we'll see them both at the Trooping the Color and Royal Ascot. I've been having serious Sussex-withdrawal over the past week, lol. I need them at the summer royal events!!

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    1. Annette New Zealand31 May 2018 at 04:31

      Surely the Dutch wouldn't give them orders or decorations when they haven't been given to the Cambridges who are senior to them?

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    2. Eve from Germany31 May 2018 at 04:59

      NOS is the Dutch national television, those are usually not "all about gossip"... ;-))))

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    3. Isn't it a bit rude guiding there calender and the fact they need downtime as well?

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    4. I have all the faith in the world that HRH The Duchess of Sussex will be just as busy as we expect of her! She has an incredible work ethic & strikes me as one who would be frustrated by being held back! I agree that she will not be cut the same level of slack that HRH The Duchess of Cambridge was. They are 2 entirely different women, in 2 distinctly different roles & on 2 completely different paths! I think we will see wonderful things from both women!! :)

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  11. Thank you Charlotte,I was sure your new post would be exciting,as always!!

    -Love this new portrait,and I wonderr if they are more official photos from the wedding :)
    -I can't wait to see together King Willem,Queen Maxima Harry and Meghan!So fantastic team!
    -I don't know if I am especially exciting to see the outfits of the new Duchess,I am more curious to see her work,to read her speaches,to know wich charities she will choose.
    -The couple Sussex has a lot of work to do,I wish they have a fantastic honeymoon
    wherever they are,and I don't trust press anymore sorry...(where are they? etc..)
    -Finally I must say I am not a "belly watcher",the pregnancy is a happy event of course,but not the most important.The Crown has already many successors,so no panic,please:)
    -The wedding of Eugenie,wowww!Love Eugenie,(same first name,lol)and her future husband looks adorable-(I wish the bride will wear a tiara,of course:D

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  12. I really like some of MM's looks when she was writing The Tig and hope she returns to those looks when possible. After the problems with Diana/Charles, Sarah/Andrew, and even Anne, I think the Queen was determined to do whatever it took to make new spouses happy. think she did that with Kate an will continue with Meghan. She definitely wants her grandkids to have happy marriages. And I think she enjoys MM---I read that Charles likes her extremely well and said she was very nice.

    Saw Doria being photographed over and over because she was (a) outside and (b) wearing a pair of shorts. Maybe she can come for Christmas and bring her dogs.

    Harry and Meghan better be well into their honeymoon and thinking about coming home soon. :)

    Thank you, Charlotte, for a wonderful keep-up-the-spirits post. :)

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    1. I agree that the Queen/BRF appear to have given more weight to marriages being happy. Royals are people, and they deserve happy marriages and personal lives. Strong individual families make for a stronger Firm.

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    2. ๐ŸŒธ Amen, Heather. The family unit is foundational. The Royal penny has dropped. They get it. HalleluYah. ๐Ÿ˜Š

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  13. Is that photograph on the spiral staircase taken on the way to the ringing chamber in the Curfew Tower?

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  14. I think all these plans are great and I hope they all come true, but I’m a bit wary of announcing things like this, so much in advance, for a newlywed.
    I can just see it, Meghan gets pregnant in a couple of months and is put on restrictions or bed rest and all these plans have to be canceled. And people then get outraged because their expectations weren’t fulfilled.

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    1. This is exactly my fear. I mean, it’s their lives and they can have as many kids as they please, but as soon as she has to slow down for pregnancy and maternity leave, then everyone will jump on them.

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    2. If there are (heaven forbid) any complications during a pregnancy, how fickle for anyone to fault them! One has to always make plans.... what do we do otherwise... stand still until one gets pregnant & make sure there are no complications? That doesn't seem wise either. Making plans makes all the sense in the world to me & then if curve balls arrive.... one deals with them then!

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    3. Proactive PR is a good thing. And, if complications arise, hopefully, most people will understand that life happens. I did say "most"... ๐Ÿ˜Š

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    4. ๐ŸŒธ lol, rf. given the climate here recently, very judicious of you to include that little disclaimer. ๐Ÿ˜‰

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    5. If someone has complications from pregnancy and literally cannot leave the house, I don't think anyone would be outraged if some appointments had to be cancelled. I think we'd hope she and her baby were well and totally understand.

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    6. There is a difference between having a third child at age 36 and having a first child at that age or older. It can be a difficult pregnancy and childbirth. I do think her habit of yoga exercise will be helpful.

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    7. Exactly SG. Exactly! ๐Ÿ˜‰๐Ÿ‘

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    8. bluhare, I agree! Anon, you raise a good point! Here's hoping when the time comes, all will be uneventful! :)

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  15. All very exciting!

    Wouldn't be a treat to see Catherine and Meghan attend Wimbledon together?

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  16. Tammy from California30 May 2018 at 23:31

    What a beautiful picture of Queen Maxima. That crown...purrrrrr.

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    1. Eve from Germany31 May 2018 at 04:57

      It´s amazing, isn´t it? The Dutch have some truly amazing "bling" in their vault, for sure.... ;-))))

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    2. Maxima does the best bling of anyone. I think Camilla might be her closest competitor but she's way behind Maxima!

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  17. Any thoughts on whether H and M will attend the Diplomatic Reception in December? I certainly hope so, because that means...say it with me...a tiara sighting!!!

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    1. Harry has never attended before, doubt it’ll change while the Queen is alive.

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    2. Change is in the wind, Sofy. Don't give up on that tiara, Ms. C.!

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  18. This forecast of the Duchess's schedule is dizzying! I just hope they put their marriage first! Marriage is hard work, and I don't think royal marriages are an exception. I too don't believe Meghan will be given any slack by the British people, but I also don't think she has anything to prove. Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry will need to find a balance between their "work life" and their personal lives. The two should not be given the same treatment simply because their Royals, and I hope they don't confuse the two. She may have married into the Firm, but Harry is her husband!

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    1. They clearly share a passion for working hard on things they believe in, as well as any events or engagements that support The Queen! That point alone can strongly bond 2 people together in their relationship!! Couples can be very busy people & thrive on it all as a couple! Especially when they share the same or similar passionate causes etc!! I see that as a strength not a negative source of conflict!

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  19. It's fun to see how much we have to look forward to this year. The wedding excitement is over and things seem a tad slow by comparison. But not for long! How fun and inspiring it will be as we see Meghan continue to blossom in her new roles - wife, duchess, patron, commonwealth representative, inspiration, leader, and so much more. Mother will surely be another role... time will tell!

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  20. hmm there so many events these years we have the royal ascot and we have a fabulous trooping color hmm cant too see her with the duchess catherine in Wimbledon together it would be great and of course a wedding

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  21. With the way the press has tried many times to make her look bad I’m sure she’s well aware that they won’t suddenly start being nice to her. She won’t have the luxury of getting by being mediocre, she will have to work twice as hard to get half the praise others get. This is a woman who has worked her whole life shes not going to be shy about getting her feet wet. Also I doubt they’re worried about succession when it comes to them planning to have kids. If they decide let’s have kids now it’s their business to do so. If certain engagements or tour(s) have to be rescheduled so be it, people will get over their little disappointed feelings. Looking forward to seeing them at Trooping.

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  22. I got all excited reading about grass roots organizations, being a big fan if that sort of thing. Helping locally can mushroom. But I also understand she's not necessarily local. But I hope she is local enough to go and cut a few ribbons and open some hospitals and municipal buildings. That is the boring work William and Harry dont like but it can create a lot of goodwill in those communities. So.i do.hope that as she gets moving that Meghan can see that some.of those boring hand shaking events can really pay dividends down the line.

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    1. I agree. I think Meghan understands the importance of relationship building and hopefully will take the 6 month time frame to travel and meet more people and not just people related to her platform.

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    2. Mimi, I agree that she sees the value of that part of the job! :)

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  23. I was delighted to open Mad About Meghan and discover this new post. I have been checking as I am in withdrawal.
    I hope that H&M are having the best possible time away and will hit the ground running upon their return. The new engagement photo reminds me much of W&K. I'm sure it was taken specifically as a more formal shot for the Queen and perhaps Charles was gifted with one as well. I do however love the more casual approach they took to several of their photos they decided to share with us. It will be good to have them return but in the mean time thank you Charlotte for great information that will keep us anticipating through at least the summer months and into fall.

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  24. Recently, I was at the Devon Horse Show in Devon, PA, USA. It was great fun to visit the hat shop and discover a fabulous selection of hats that without exception deserve the attention of the RF. It is my understanding that a hat or two has been made for a member of the RF by the designer/owner of the shop. Absolute discretion was observed so little information was offered. The opportunity to try them on was a treat. They are a commitment price wise and would require more then a few occasions to actually commit to as they were all very memorable. As they were all statement pieces due to size I did wonder about storage. Since I'll be returning i have a few days to make a decision.

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    1. USA Granny, isn't it fun to visit a proper hat shop? I visited one in New Orleans and their creations were works of art. I wanted to buy everything lol.

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  25. Can't wait to see her on June 9th for Trooping the Colour!! And, would love to see them at the All England Club for a tennis match. The picture of Zara with Harry reminds me that she and Mike Tindall will be expecting a new little one soon. Any chance Harry could be godfather? Just a thought, hehe, anyway, thank you Charlotte for the comprehensive post!

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  26. Exciting times for sure. Thank you, Charlotte.

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  27. Weeeelllll, I have a different take on this... I think 6 months of listening is really 6 months of working on having children and there are no announcements on anything because who knows how she'll handle pregnancy.

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    1. A possibility for sure. I also wonder if the announcement regarding HM's advisor isn't a wee bit of a "counterpunch" to the feminist angle here. In other words, remember who's boss at the end of the day.

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    2. Very very interesting FM!!! Methinks you may be on to something???

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    3. Hmm...I absolutely agree with you RoyalFan. Hopefully, Meghan will retain who she is always. She has been on her own for a very long time and doing a very good job of it. I think Harry will support all she wishes to do.

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    4. You think they got her a advisor to keep her in her place?

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    5. ๐ŸŒธ lol. exactly, rf. :) Who da boss? One slick Queen that’s who.๐Ÿ‘‘๐Ÿ˜Š

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    6. If 6 months of listening turns into 6 months of nothing, i'll be the first one to complain about not delivering on what you promise. Done it before, and I'll do it again.

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    7. USA Granny, I think Harry will do everything in his power to support Meghan. Absolutely. And I hope that she will support HIM by understanding the reality of her position. That, in my opinion, is key to happily ever after.

      Monica, Meghan would have an advisor regardless of the circumstances. However, it is my opinion that this tidbit serves an additional purpose here. While I think the firm is fully prepared to bask in the popularity of this young couple, the manner in which they navigate this popularity will have to be "signed off" on, so to speak. No runaway freight trains on the Queen's or Charles's watch.

      SG ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ˜€๐Ÿ˜‰

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    8. The so called advisor story happened a while back and this time is being reported with a spin. Samantha Cohen is coming in as interim private secretary for Harry as Edward Lane Fox's replacement is being recruited.

      Me thinks she is there to help develop their Commonwealth work (does not hurt that she is Australian) rather than train Meghan

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    9. Monica, my take is that it was an extremely gracious gesture from The Queen, giving Meghan the best advisor possible as she embarks on & navigates her new official role. Basically, if Meghan has any questions about anything... this advisor will know, as she has worked for The Queen. I see it as a very supportive gesture. I see HM as very much wanting Meghan to be herself & succeed & therefore she has given her the best possible advisor to help her do so! :)

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    10. Royalfan... it's as though the press forget the Queen is a woman. There has been a female on the throne for the last 66 years. It is a female in charge of the royal family. It is a female that is Sovereign of 16 Commonwealth Realms. Meanwhile, the resignation protocol is fascinating in the royal households. You resign until someone says they'd like you to perform another role. She's apparently being tested out as a future private secretary and may function similarly as Quinn for Kate.

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    11. bluhare what's your take on family politics? Do you suppose there will be a lot of "learning" and "listening" with Charles to keep the spotlight on heirs? Do you think there is any concern of Meghan being too busy/popular and being compared to "Lazy" Kate in the press? Do you think Meghan and Harry will be shipped out of the country and kept busy abroad? Any chance they will be "residencts" somewhere like Australia?

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    12. I think the advisor will be very helpful to MM, especially as she will probably head out on her own a lot now. MM seems like the type to use all the talent around her to achieve good results. Little dynamo.

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    13. Moxie, I don't think gender has anything to do with it. This is about rank in the Firm and the wife of the younger son of a future king, and the sister in law of another future king, will not be permitted to "show them how it's done". In my mind, it's the equivalent of a young law school graduate joining a law firm of seasoned attorneys and leading the way. (I believe this answers your second question as well.)

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    14. FM, love the burning questions! :) Oh & btw... color me clueless on all of them! lol :) I did have a smile, as you described the "resigning" dance that occurs sometimes in the royal households. lol :) It's definitely quirky at times. :)

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    15. RF, I completely agree with you!! The Queen & eventually Charle, will need to have a say (even if it's just a thumbs up good work kiddos) about what H&M are doing or the direction they are going in, just like they have for W&K. It just comes with the job! :)

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    16. Royalfan, I agree with you on this. It's not about to become the Meghan Markle show. Although the press may spin it that way. It's always ironic to me that folks think marrying into this family gains you a platform for your own agenda. The agenda is set by the family and the UK government. Not a group particularly interested in an American actress's perspective on things. But I think she will have a blast accompanying Harry around the world. Who wouldn't?

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    17. Becca, it absolutely comes with the job.

      Moxie, I agree 100%.

      As I've said before, we are in for some very interesting years of royal watching...

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    18. Eve from Germany3 June 2018 at 12:57

      Florida Moxie: So why exactly wouldn´t this "group" be interested in "an American actress´s perspective"? Does this mean being American automatically disqualifies your opinions and input as not valid/important? Does this mean being an actress means the same? Let alone being a combination of both?
      I don´t think "HeadsTogether" with the clear agenda to lift the stigma of mental health issues has ever been set as an agenda by the family. It might have had HM´s and Charles´s approval - but it was clearly done by Kate, William and Harry. And the UK government - they had/have so many problems due to the sudden awareness of all the issues in mental health care in the UK that I doubt they wanted it to be on any agenda - royal or other.
      The fact that "I´m proud to be a woman and a feminist" is front and center on the official website shows how much the family cares about what Meghan has to say, give and share. Beware, you might be surprised.... if only about not every woman thinking only about trying for a baby immediately after the wedding ceremony, even if the proverbial clock might be ticking. Some are quite relaxed about the subject - because a woman´s life is not "only" about babies anymore - 2018?

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    19. Eve-It is so good to see ( read) your in put in this thread. You articulated what needs to be communicated well and clear.

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    20. I'm not quite sure what your question actually is, moxie. If you're asking if Meghan and harry will.be slapped down so as.not to outshine the heirs, no, I don't think they will. What do you want tbem to be? Less active than William and kate? She is staying with the baby until the autumn when there will likely be the usual flurry of engagements to bring the numbers up. William already seems to be doing more, I was glad to see him at the Manchester memorial.

      I think Harry and Meghan should set their own pace just as the Cambridges were allowed. I really don't see what the problem is.

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    21. bluhare I just wondered your take on the family dynamics of marrying into the royal family now - given that we know Charles is touchy about being overshadowed from his experience with Diana. William only recently came out into the fore when Philip retired in the fall and we know there has been a shake up in Buck Palace staff. We've seen Charles walk the bride down the aisle and her first appearance as a duchess was with Charles. So my question is... do you think Meghan is operating independently or is there a game plan in place guided by senior royals? I'm not sure it does Charles and William any good if the press focus is on Meghan "changing the world". What value/purpose is there in being BORN royal then? Would it not negate the whole institution of bloodline royals?

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    22. I don't think most people give a damn about blood line royals except the royals themselves, Moxie. I also think it's possible Charles learnt something from those experiences, and being overshadowed by your wife is a bit different than a daughter in law.

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    23. Trying for a baby will no doubt be put on hold until after the Australia/New Zealand trip. That is too important an event to be disrupted by pregnancy. See the Queen Mother’s official biography on the importance of frequent visits to Australia. In addition, Meghan is a very organized person. Remember that she talked of a time just for the two of them, to be followed by a more public era. She will surely want a time of marriage without children before she undertakes creating and raising a family. Given her age, that time may be somewhat abbreviated, but I don’t believe it will be foregone.

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  28. Upstate Diva USA31 May 2018 at 16:17

    Plus christening of Prince Louis should be a sweet summer family event.

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    1. Oh I totally forgot about that!! I wonder why I haven't seen anyone mention it in the lists of BRF events for the summer?

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  29. I forgot to add that that photo of Maxima is breathtaking. Also, for my fellow Harry Potter fans, whenever I hear her name, I can't help but want to shout LUMOS MAXIMA

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  30. Regarding the new photo: I don't believe anyone has related the Australian representative being greeted to the fact that M&H plan to visit Australia in October to open the Invictus Games, I think it is. That would be a clever way of HM's calling attention to that.
    The Queen is known for her subtle, non-verbal methods of making a statement. The use of a previously unseen photo of Meghan and Harry would certainly draw the attention of media that usually might not publicize such meetings. I thought the placement of eyeglasses on top of some notes on the table holding the photo was an especially interesting detail. It definitely ties HM to the photo.

    Also, the room is referred to in some outlets as the Queen's "living room." Isn't it more likely an official reception room used for photographing the greeting of dignitaries? Perhaps different levels of formality or intimacy are accorded individual diplomats, depending upon their significance? Such as, historically, the series of rooms in some palaces that lead from more formal throne room ambiance to the more intimate antechambers to the monarch's office bedchamber. I saw this on one of the marvelous historical programs shown on PBS.

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    1. ๐ŸŒธ 17:30. I think it is her “official room” to meet dignitaries and to meet weekly with the Prime Minister.
      lol. I think she has a lot of other rooms to use as a “living room” or two or three..... ๐Ÿ˜Š

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    2. ๐ŸŒธ Just think. The Queen has grown up in Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Balmoral,
      Sandringham. That’s the only life she’s ever known. Don’t know that she has spent much time at Kensington Palace though.

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  31. ๐ŸŒธ 17:43. The reading glasses, and pen on the paper do seem to tie the Queen to that adjacent photo and in an editorial way perhaps. That also ties in beautifully with what Royalfan mentioned @ 20:53, with the Queen assigning her advisor to assist Meghan.
    A very gentle nod to the fact that the Queen is still the one at the helm. ๐Ÿ˜‰

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  32. No official announcements have been made. No need to worry about people being upset about canceled engagements because nothing has been announced yet so if they do decide to have a kid they will plan around that.

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  33. Lisa Seattle Area Canadian1 June 2018 at 10:46

    Wondering why no info has been posted about their honeymoon??? I heard they went to Alberta, Canada....which is where I am from!!!! Can't wait to see next week's Trooping the Colour!!!!

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  34. ๐ŸŒธ Lisa. Again, it is like when they were dating.
    After a certain point they just fell off the radar for months and months. By design. They only were photographed when they wanted to be photographed and those photos were few and far between and yet Harry said that during that time “they had been everywhere”. They have the clout and resources to stay off the radar at will. Motivated no doubt by history.
    They obviously plan to have a personal life rich in privacy. ๐Ÿ˜‰

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  35. Eve from Germany1 June 2018 at 17:04

    Honestly, I think that HM giving Meghan one of her advisors is to give her the "top" advice and information. I used to work in sales as a so-called "Senior" and had to teach young sales managers. I don´t want to sound "presumptious", err, but the so-called "Seniors" were not only the most experienced people, but also among the very best. That´s how I see this move by HM....

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    1. Agree Eve. If you are born into the family you begin to learn all the ins and outs as you grow up, but then once you start doing "Royal Duties" it seems like most of the Royals have an advisor they work with. Meghan is learning from her advisor about all the ins and outs of the Royal Family, its activities, events, causes, workings of the day to day Royal life as well as getting, I suspect, some general accepted protocol when one is part of the "team".

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    2. Eve, thats also how I see it . I see it as a gracious gift from The Queen & a gesture of fondness & caring.

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  36. Busy busy year ahead. Hopefully they’re having a wonderful and relaxing honeymoon to gear up for the rest of the year. Lots of exciting stuff coming. I know it’s a stretch but I’m hoping that the Netherlands visit will include a tiara event. But considering W&K’s visit to Norway & Sweden didn’t, I’m not holding my breath :( but if it’s an official visit, it SHOULD include getting orders no??

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    1. Roxana, Charlotte would know better & hopefully can explain it for us sometime.... but while Will & Kate have made many "Official Visits" on behave of The Queen &/or The Foreign Office, they have not been "Official State Visits". I believe that is the difference. During the "Official Visits" W&K have had many dinners & receptions held on their behalf. Some were hosted by the British Ambassadors in the countries being visited & some by the heads of state or monarchs in those countries (as in the formal one hosted by The King of Norway). However, I don't believe that even the one held by The King of Norway was an "Official State Dinner". Thus, perhaps that's why W&K have not received "orders" from these Monarchs. My sense is, that if W&K have not yet been hosted at an "Official State Dinner" by another Monarch (with Will being 2nd in line to the throne) then I don't think H&M (with Harry being 6th in line) would be. I can't see them playing "hopscotch" like that! Just my hunch. However, Charlotte would know best about all these things & how they work. :)

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    2. It can only be a state dinner if a head of state is attending, in this case that would be The Queen. So no orders for William or Harry on visits to other countries.

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  37. My goodness.. a lot of presumption here on what and how much she might work based on what?? Babies and her whole life has been planned out here bsd on wht some might hope. Good grief she didn’t walk on water

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  38. Meghan will do great at her new job/role i look forward to watching her succeed in it and your posts Charlotte

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  39. why does she have to "make change happen" where have we heard that before?? please define change because this activist, feministm change narrative is not what the royal family is for. It's not her role to change the royal family. Prince Harry has bordered on political statements already. It will make them unwatchable if they persists on this. An American trying to "change" a British institution?? Everything the Queen has worked for can be destroyed in a sentence uttered by one of them. How can BP approve of this??

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    1. I don't think Meghan's intention is to single handedly change the BRF. I wonder if she means to highlight causes and places that have been in much need of change and direction. Communities that might benefit from having a 'HRH' speak on their behalf, and draw attention to their plight. If H&M can,on behalf of HM,help and assist causes and communities within the Commonwealth, then that can only be a change for good I think.

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    2. Anon, I agree with everything you said & you said it so well! Thanks! :)

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  40. I think the changes MM would work on extend to areas of the word where change is so desperately needed. She has shown that she can stick to the rules during all things royal. I don't think there is anything in the RF that she wishes to change. The very influential and amazing leader is a woman, and she seems to get along with all the other relatives. The next ruler Charles, has shown himself to be supportive o Meghan and of her mother in a very sincere way. I think the "Americanism" would not be in play but rather the "humanism" would. Harry seems to be aware of his outrageous privilege and wants to spend his life making a difference, as does MM. But they are very willing to still be part of the appearances and royal life, which also is what most of the people want from them.

    Gosh, how long will the honeymoon last?????

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    1. ๐ŸŒธ I know, Allison, lol. HOW LONG?

      And, so many headlines today are saying that the Queen HAS gifted Harry and Meghan with York Cottage. BUT when you read the articles it says she might. But as of yet, she HAS NOT. Those headlines are misleading and tacky. ๐Ÿคจ

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    2. Allison, I know right??? lol :) You have been on a role! You just seem to be spot on about things for Meghan & Kate & you express your thoughts so well. I agree with all that you said! :)

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    3. Oh, thank you! That's so nice of you. I do get chatty when there's intervals between sightings!

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  41. Looks like some of you get your info from tabs. Being upset at Meghan for things she never said or implied that she would be the messiah of the royal family is ridiculous. Those things others have placed on her not something she placed on herself. Calm down with that stuff and also the baby stuff. The whole womb watch thing is creepy and tacky they will decide when the time is right for them not any of us.

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  42. Monica and SG---you are so right! I try not to believe what is written but then I get caught up in some---Harry's "tearful" goodbye to Chelsy, Pippa not invited to the wedding, offended guests who didn't get to go to the evening party (when it turns out they were at the evening wedding of another friend), and on and on.

    It's MM and Harry's fault for not coming back and giving us real news. :)

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    1. ๐ŸŒธ you have a point there, Allison. ๐Ÿ˜‰

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  43. Meghan. Has three engagement the a.accompany queen june 14 she learning the best

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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 :)