Friday 1 November 2019

The Duchess of Sussex Returns to Luminary Bakery

If there's one thing I've learned about Meghan over the past two years, it's that when it comes to charities and initiatives she's involved with, when you have her attention, you have her full commitment. When Meghan chose to highlight the inspiring efforts of Luminary Bakery - a non-profit bakery empowering women into employment by providing skills, work experience and support every step of the way - for the September issue of British Vogue, I knew it would not be the least of her involvement. Earlier this week, Meghan paid a visit to mark the opening of their second branch in Camden.


Sussex Royal shared a fantastic short video from the visit with the caption: "It was a special moment to acknowledge the spirit of Luminary and their remarkable business model that opens its arms to women from vulnerable circumstances (be it abuse, poverty, trafficking, marginalisation) and equips them with the job skills and confidence to succeed. Having sat down with Luminary Bakery at their flagship location earlier this year and from that inspiring visit choosing to feature them as Forces For Change in the September issue of British Vogue, Her Royal Highness was proud to be invited to attend the launch of their second bakery. This addition will enable the organisation to provide services, support and mentoring for four times the number of women."


The Duchess was joined by the Telegraph's Bryony Gordon, one of the young royals most trusted journalists, who covered the Heads Together campaign extensively. When Harry decided to shared his own mental health struggles and the journey he's been through, he chose Bryony. Indeed, Meghan told Bryony she encouraged Harry to do the podcast. Bryony first met Meghan during a lunch before the wedding, where the journalist found she and the future Duchess "were on the same wave length". They've kept in touch since.


Bryony recalled also seeing Meghan a couple of weeks ago before the Tom Bradby documentary aired. More from the Telegraph:

"Then, as in the interview, her eyes glistened when I asked her how she was. But if I have learnt anything about Meghan in the time I have known her, it is that she is a doer, not a wallower. She lives in the solution, not the problem. She told me that she didn’t want people to love her - she just wanted them to be able to hear her. I have found that this is what the Duchess of Sussex stands for: using her voice to help give one to people less privileged than her."

As Meghan met with women who had been abused, trafficked and through unimaginable trauma, one lady, Tanya, apologised for crying. Meghan reassured her and said she was talking to someone the other day about today's "culture of instant gratification". The Duchess added: "We aren't mechanical objects that need to be fixed. You're a wounded creature that needs to be healed, and that takes time."


As Bryony observed the engagement she got the impression Meghan has accepted the harsh reality she has found herself in: "Damned if she does, damned if she doesn't. And being the kind of person she is, she's going to carry on doing, thank you very much." Like so much of Meghan's work (both public and private), this engagement may never see the light of day in the Court Circular, but as Bryony so aptly noted, that isn't why she's doing this. She's doing it for women like Tanya.


Meghan was introduced to Halimot, an exploitation victim who has launched her own catering company with the support of Luminary. She was nervous meeting Meghan, telling her: "I'm a child of nobody. And you are a somebody. It means so much to meet you." The Duchess smiled before embracing her and assuring her it was she was honoured.


On Instagram, Luminary shared a behind-the-scenes look at Meghan helping to bake a cake and meeting with women.


Supporting women is at the heart of Meghan's work. With everything she is going through at the moment, the fact she chooses to uplift and empower women speaks far more loudly than any vicious false article or leaks from Palace aides ever could. And I hope she holds on to that.


The ladies from Luminary Bakery are launching a cookbook next autumn; I have no doubt Meghan will be supporting them through that too.


Click here to read Bryony Gordon's full article.


The Duchess wore the Poplin White & Midnight Blue Stripe Shirt by With Nothing Underneath. The £80 shirt is described as: "The WNU shirt is inspired by classic menswear styles, but reimagined for women. The classic boyfriend style, taken out of the bedroom for the boardroom or the beach. Made from crisp poplin cotton this is your new wardrobe staple."


As she arrived, Meghan wore her J Crew Juliette Collarless Sweater Blazer from the US Open. It's available in multiple colours on J Crew's website.


The Duchess teamed a pair of blue jeans with her Madewell leather belt.


Meghan accessorised with her Adina Reyter 14k Gold Three Diamond Amigos Curve earrings. They are available at ShopBop.


To complete the smart casual look, Meghan wore a pair of Adidas trainers. Meghan's Fashion suggests they are the Stan Smith Sneaker, available at Nordstrom.


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As you will probably have heard, it was incredibly heartening to see Holly Lynch, a young mother and member of parliament, lead an open letter in support of the Duchess with signed support from 72 female MPs. With Brexit, politics has never been more divided in the UK, and to see so many women cross party lines to call out the appalling treatment of another woman in the public eye was quite special and perhaps a prominent example of how those in the UK really feel. Meghan called Holly personally to thank her and the pair enjoyed a conversation. Holly spoke with Omid Scobie on his new podcast the Heir Pod, which I highly recommend for a new royalty fix. Click here to listen to this week's episode.


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And Harry and Meghan wished a Happy Halloween to all those celebrating, from them and their "little pumpkin" with a throwback photo to last year's royal tour.


We'll see the Duke and Duchess for several Remembrance events next week. Keep an eye on Meghan's Calendar page for the details on when they are to be officially released.

71 comments:

  1. It all started out with a vision that she shared with us in the September issue of British Vogue....

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  2. If we all agreed that there are 3 modes of dress - casual, dress, and formal I would say she nails casual ALL THE TIME. I love this look on her. Maybe it's an extension of her warm, friendly way but she is Queen of the Casual Look. Always well put together.


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  3. Thank you for this post Charlotte. It was wonderful to learn yesterday about Meghan's private visit to Luminary Bakery, and I'm glad they have found encouragement and support from her and that she has found a very supportive community in them, just as with the Hubb Community Kitchen and SmartWorks. One thing I fiercely believe is that we help ourselves heal when we help others heal. This the concept of the wounded healer - a person who is able to help others out of their own scars and experiences. Like Meghan said, healing takes time. It is a process and one that is more often than not, cyclical rather than linear. Healing can rarely occur in isolation. It usually needs the companionship, care, and compassion of others in order to begin and to develop. Healing needs for pain to be given a voice and for feelings to be shared, so that they are not bottled up or suppressed. Healing needs space, time, and patience and not shame, guilty, or stigma. Healing needs the hope and presence of fellow travelers on the journey so that one is not overwhelmed by loneliness and darkness. I'm reminded of a story I first heard on an episode of "The West Wing", but one that I have since shared with friends and with my congregants/parishioners. It goes like this:
    "This guy's walking down the street when he falls into a hole. The walls are so steep he can't get out. A doctor passes by and the guy shouts up, "Hey can you help me?" The doctor writes a prescription and throws it down in the hole and moves on. Then a priest comes along and the guy shouts up, "Father, I'm down in this hole can you help me out?" The priest writes down a prayer, throws it down in the hole and moves on. Then a friend walks by. The guy shouts up, "Hey Joe it's me - can you help me out?" and the friend jumps down in the hole. Our guy says, "Are you stupid - now we're both down here!?" The friend says, "Yeah, but I've been down here before and I know the way out.""

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    1. Caroline in Montana1 November 2019 at 20:28

      Sarah I love that story, hadn't heard that one before. Thank you so much for sharing!!

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    2. Sarah you wrote a lovely comment and what an inspiring story at the end makes one have a lot to think of

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    3. The story I shared above comes from a deeply poignant, realistic/truthful, and powerful episode of "The West Wing" (specifically, season 2, episode 10). It focused on a character struggling with PTSD, who was trying desperately to manage how he was thinking and feeling on his own. Everything came to a head when he began feeling suicidal and pushed his hand through a glass window, in an effort to stop the emotional pain and flashbacks. His supervisor had him meet and talk with a trauma specialist/therapist. Following that meeting, the supervisor shares the story I mentioned above. Here is a link to watch that moment: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=VM56KXM4y4c

      As I mentioned above, it is one I've shared frequently with others who are struggling, and it reminds me of the importance of getting in the holes or trenches with those who need help, support, and to know they are not alone in their pain or circumstances. I wonder what the world would be like if more people were willing to help a friend or stranger climb out of a hole.

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    4. Thank you, Sarah NC, for sharing that story. Reminds me of appreciating what it feels like when putting one’s self in another person’s situation.

      Dena

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    5. Anne-Sophie de Paris2 November 2019 at 00:07

      Merci Charlotte pour votre travail !
      Merci Sarah pour votre histoire inspirante je me la garderai jalousement.
      Je dirai que Meghan est comme " le roseau, elle plie mais ne rompt pas "
      Longue vie aux Sussex et longue vie à eux au sein de la monarchie britannique.
      Ils sont vraiment des rayons de soleil.
      Meghan met en exergue des personnes vulnérables qu'on a pas l'habitude de montrer..!
      Des laissés pour compte.
      Désormais, ils ont un visage, une dignité.
      Avec ce que Meghan vit ,ils sont tous des "cabossés de la vie" à des niveaux différents.
      Je souhaite à toutes ces femmes et à leurs accomagnatrices une belle réussite .

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    6. Zora from Prague2 November 2019 at 12:10

      Thank you, Sarah!

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    7. Hello Sarah- I liked the story and also your inspiring in put.
      A-15
      _

      Other wise, how can this be skipped? Anne -Anne Sophie's comment is interesting and touching.
      Translation
      Thank you Charlotte for your work!
      Thank you Sarah for your inspiring story I will keep it jealously.
      I will say that Meghan is like "the reed, it bends but does not break"
      Long live the Sussex and long life to them within the British monarchy.
      They are really sunbeams.
      Meghan highlights vulnerable people we are not used to showing ..!
      Left behind.
      From now on, they have a face, a dignity.
      With what Meghan lives, they are all "battered of life" at different levels.
      I wish all these women and their accomagnatrices a great success.

      Delete
  4. GOD BLESS THE SUSSEX FAMILY AND YOU TOO CHARLOTTE. LIFTING EACH OTHER UP IS THE JOY OF HUMANITY.

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  5. Becca H in Colorado1 November 2019 at 19:09

    I 100% agree with you, Charlotte, that Meghan continuing to show up for others in the midst of everything that's going on her life is a clear indication of her solid character and authenticity.

    The show of the support from all the MPs blew me away. It's EXACTLY the kind of gesture that Meghan's been needing and was really moved me. Women supporting women is so needed, not this all-out tear down we've seen in the comment sections of Instagram (among other places). It's clear from watching Holly's interviews that she's razor sharp and is taking a stand, saying enough is enough.

    However Meghan may feel about the "stiff upper lip" approach, her work ethic definitely embraces "keep calm and carry on." She must have nerves of freaking steel. Also, I love her casual look here. She's so good at throwing together jeans, button ups, and various kinds of flats and making them look both comfortable and chic.

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  6. Caroline in Montana1 November 2019 at 20:31

    I love her look today, she does nail casual so well. she seems so comfortable in herself at events like this. is it just me or is her hair getting really long, I love it! really love all the female MP's making a stand as well, now its becoming a wave and hopefully before long the nay sayers can be shut down. fingers crossed. keep calm and carry on Meg, your doing great!

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  7. This is all inspiring to me... Charlotte’s post and the way in which she presents the person, the issue and the fashion in a respectful and uplifting manner; the Duchess’s commitment to so many people especially females who need representation; the sincere joy and gratitude on the Duchess’ face and on the women who surround her; the positive comments that followers of this blog have left so far. I am heartened by all of it and am grateful that in this little corner of the world wide web that there is respect and a willingness to respond with kindness.

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  8. I agree that part of the inspiration is the blog itself, where nothing negative or unproductive is ever written. I saw that this event occurred but gave myself a treat by waiting for Charlotte. I was looking at the group photo at the top and thought how beautiful Meghan looks; then I realized that they all looked equally beautiful. What a lovely gathering that must have been.

    And it serves so many extended purposes: by the publicity of Meghan's appearance, the bakery receives further advertising. All women in a situation as the bakers receive a positive message about their worth and potential. Serves to suggest similar minded businesses.

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  9. Thank you for the post, Charlotte. Thank you Sarah from NC for the inspiring story. I listened to the Heir Pod episode linked her. I very much appreciated Omid Scobie's excellent interview with Holly Lynch. There was enough time and the proper questions so that she had time to put letter and content of the MPs in context, and the opportunity to discuss how law makers can act to help bring some regulations to try to bring back some integrity to royal reporting, although I'm beginning to think that integrity and tabloids is an oxymoron. Someone not from the UK could be forgiven in thinking that there are only tabloids in the print press. I was impressed with the MP and how clearly she discussed the situation with the tabloids, and the current legal actions of the Sussexes.

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  10. Nicole fromFrance1 November 2019 at 23:15

    What a lovely story, Sarah ,and how it speaks a lot for many poêle from any ways .....
    I did’not Have time to comment on the Africa tour and all,what happened around ,not so sure about Meghan’s speaking about her feelings , but she felt she should , so she did , nothing to regret ....! Charlotte, as usual, your work has gone far beyond fashion stuff, I so do enjoy all the informations I get from you , I can’t help beeing very happy to have found your blog , one day ... ! Thank’you !
    Our dear Duchess’s action goes as far as Venice , there we are !
    https://video.nuovavenezia.gelocal.it/mondo/un-grembiule-per-meghan-markle-la-duchessa-prepara-una-torta-per-le-donne-svantaggiate/118258/118737
    Quite happy with ms Lynch’s letter ,that IS certainly what had to be done ! Bullying is nothing but hate and greed , it sells so well ! If william and Kate , who pretend acting against bullying , have not even a simple word to say to support Meghan , then Meghan will find support in ms Lynch’s brotherly letter and all the MPs who have signed it . Well done .

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  11. Thank you Charlotte for this post! I appreciate your informative & fair reporting. Duchess Meghan is a gem! I admire how she supports so many causes that are uplifting and positively touch many lives. It’s a joy to follow her meaningful work. She looks comfortable in her role & those around her seem to really relate to her.

    I’m glad that the MPs came forward in solidarity as no one, should be bullied in the manner Meghan & others have experienced. Press freedom does not mean freedom to abuse & I sincerely hope in the near future better press regulations will be put in place to protect everyone.

    Dena

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  12. Royal 👑 Watcher2 November 2019 at 01:36

    The letter that the Duchess of Sussex received is amazing. I hope that Meghan can take strength from the fact that so many people support her and also welcome her wherever she goes for charity visits. She is hugely popular and does wonderful work with the vulnerable in our society. Meghan does not need to worry about the negativity, not take it on, just rise above and let it blow away in the wind. This too shall pass (Persian Proverb).

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  13. I saw what you did up there, charlotte. Our very own Charlotte, queen of niceness, let a bit of snark rip in her write up!!

    Leaks by palace aides indeed. 😊

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    1. I’m inspired that Charlotte has been able to maintain her niceness for as long as she has, I don’t have that kind of patience 😊

      Unfortunately It seem as though the “palace aides” are not aware of how bad these “leaks” make them and the Firm look.

      Lastly, I believe that Meghan will continue to do what she’s always done, helping others, with her head held up and shoulders back exhibiting her wonderful posture 😊

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    2. I appreciated Charlotte's reference to leaks of palace aids, too. I also agree that, after the shock of her hateful treatment, Meghan will come to terms with the reality of the British tabloids and their hate-filled followers, and continue with her mission.

      I'm so very grateful to Holly Lunch and the other MPs who took a public stand against this bullying.

      R

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    3. I agree, laurie. Meghan is not behaving in a manner those icebergs are used to. She doesnt have enough deference and she is in touch with her *shudder* feelings. So inappropriate for a royal. 🙄

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    4. Oh bluhare, thanks for the belly laugh. "in touch with her *shudder* feelings" indeed!

      I'll also add my pleasure in reading that such a large number of MPs have thrown their support behind Meghan and agree to stand with her through this crisis. That doesn't go unnoticed by the Crown, the family or the general public. That does a great deal for Harry and Meghan's morale, I'm sure. Bravo!

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    5. I am weary of the press and didn't believe the palace leaks existed, I took them to be a way to legitimate a plausible story. Am I to understand that palace aides deliberately leak stories about Meghan to the press? Why should they do that? Are things so bad? I thought H&M had a problem with the press(tabloids), not with palace staff?

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  14. I truly appreciate all Meghan is doing; today I received a letter from a friend who is involved in a program to help women and children who are enslaved and trafficked. The problem is huge worldwide. Hold tight to those you love.

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  15. Thank you Charlotte for another excellent post!!! I am again blown away by Meghan's empathy and service to others. I love these behind the scenes visits as they show just how much Meghan has taken to her new role while continuing to support others the way she has always done.

    While I can believe that she doesn't give a hoot about the court circular numbers, it worries me that when the year end numbers as made public the tabloid press will use those numbers as more ammunition in their battle. I do have to wonder though who is in charge of making sure visits and such are posted to the Court Circular and how do they know who's done what? Are the various offices supposed to call and say "the Princess Royal attended such and such meetings today"? I love finding out how behind the scenes things work and would love it if someone could lift the lid on this.

    Words cannot express how thrilled I am that the Women of Parliament have chosen to support the Duchess in such a public way. I can only imagine the vitriol that these women have had to endure which makes their words and support all the more powerful. It is time for women to stand up together and say "Enough"! And while it's easy to point our fingers at men, men who seek to keep us down, men who deny us our voices, we mustn't forget how much hate and vitriol we women spew at each other. We are strong and we can do better!!

    On a quick fashion note...I ordered this button-up blouse yesterday and I can't wait for it to arrive!!

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    1. Anne-Sophie de Paris2 November 2019 at 15:18

      Bravo Laura !
      I agree 100% your comment !

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    2. Agree 100% lauri. Let me know how you like the shirt, but mostly let me know if it needs ironing. I'm allergic to them!

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    3. Bulhare, I have a little travel steamer that I use instead of ironing. I can steam a shirt free of wrinkles in about 3 minutes 😊

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    4. I need one! Thanks for the tip!

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  16. This is a wonderful initiative. So very inspiring for this group of women.

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  17. This is what she does best and is so good at- forming relationships and making the most difference possible with a charity. She really has a gift at coming up with ways to make the most impact in working with these groups. She has years of experience in doing that and it's evident. I'm looking forward to see all that she does. And great to see her making appearances. I said it months ago but will say it again, the made up stories of lies increase when she is not seen because I guess she is so popular just her name in a headline sells. But no one can change all her warmth and helping others into bad. They of course can try but most of us can see the truth when we see her so kind and lovingly helping women in need. She has an amazing heart & talent!

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  18. Glad the Duchess of Sussex is getn support from the women PMs. Gosh, we really do need to stop beating each other up as women. No one is perfect, without weaknesses, so women should lend support and encouragement to each other so all can live up to their potential. To me, that way, everyone wins. Thanks, Charlotte. IMO, you are a winner.

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    1. I agree 100% Marcia!! Not only is a supportive attitude great for those around us, it’s great for us personally. I’ve noticed that when I get judgmental, I get tense and “tight” but when I’m being supportive I feel much more relaxed and “lighter “. So it’s a win-win all the way around 😊

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    2. Anne-Sophie de Paris3 November 2019 at 08:41

      👍👍 Lauri
      Agree with you !

      Delete
  19. yes i love the inspring thoughts of sll the duchess of sussex effort to these context

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  20. Great post Charlotte thanks for your hard work

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  21. Love your post, Charlotte. Thing is re support for women, we have to start seeing the MEN writing in support of the women, too; true, women are often the meanest to other women rather than the men being mean and it's very true that women need to stand in favor of one another, but unless we bring the men in, we're missing half of the support all of us should be receiving.

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  22. Am I the only one who things the Daily Fail has reduced the number of posts about Meghan since the law suit and the letter from the MPs? It seems they have, and I'm so happy to see them lay off a bit.

    R

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    1. Hi R, I've noticed that too. In fact several of the online tabloids haven't really mentioned her in some days. But I'm also taking into consideration that she hasn't been out much for a week or so.

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    2. Thanks, Lauri. But during her pregnancy leave, when she wasn't out in public, it seems Daily Fail ran three negative stories a day.

      Thanks much Charlotte, for your continued, wonderful coverage.

      R

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    3. Very true R. *adjusts my tinfoil tiara* the tabloid press is punishing the Sussex's for their lawsuits, interview and Harry's letter. Although I'm sure that this "punishment" isn't bothering Harry or Meghan one little bit.

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  23. It has also helped, I believe, that the stepsister is being investigated for cyberbullying by four countries. Finally.

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    1. Oh wow! I did not know. That is very encouraging.

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    2. (Meant half-sister) I thought it was a great step. One of the countries is -- surprise -- the UK. This came right after the little sweetie explained to the world that Meghan's near tears and not expecting such unfairness was all false. I read that she had a police visit and all has been silent. However, and this is really bad if true, the stupid half-brother is part of a commercial involving the palace, Meghan, and beer. Not unlike Billy Beer for Pres Carter's brother, but I read it briefly and hope it doesn't come to fruition.

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    3. Very interesting, Allison in US. Does anyone know what would some possible consequences be as a result of the investigations?

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    4. Anon19:51, I don't know the consequences but looked up any info and it seems the half-sister is complaining about people cyberbullying her (not Meghan doing it, of course). However, I found this quote: "The Polk County [in Florida] Sheriff's Office confirmed earlier this year that they had received complaints about her ]the half-sister] and that it was part of a long, wide-ranging investigation."

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  24. I'm so thrilled that Harry & Meghan will be joining Camilla on Thursday! I've long hoped that Camilla and Meghan would team up on a joint project and while I know that this isn't it, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it will happen one day.

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    1. Anne-Sophie de Paris5 November 2019 at 08:08

      Je souhaite la même chose. Lauri .Camilla était la première personne à ouvrir ses bras à Meghan quand elle était arrivée dans la famille
      Étant toutes les deux divorcées

      Meghan a également rapproché Harry et le prince Charles.
      J'espère que les choses finiront par s'arranger comme dans toutes les familles.
      Il y a une belle citation sur le compte Instangram des Sussex
      Elle est très appropriée

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    2. Anne-Sophie de Paris - By now, I feel like I missing much of what you write. It seems you do read in English, I don't know what you post unfortunately. I did take French in High School and two courses in college. Learnt language in adulthood can be lost w/o practice. There used to be google translator on this blog which I son't see any more. It may not be perfect though can help. Either I will become convinced that it is time, I take your comments, translate it wherever possible, and practice French, or may be you post in English the brief translation of your French version. You are becoming a regular here, and I feel it is time to share my thoughts.

      Merci! Tu ( Vous et tres gentile) I have no accent signs to add to the French words. One thing is for sure. French is a gentle and beautiful language.

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    3. This will be really nice to see! Looking forward to it.

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    4. Anon155 November 2019 at 13:13,

      You can google "Translate to English", paste in Anne-Sophie de Paris's text, and get an instant translation.

      R

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    5. Omg! Thanks R!!! this is a day maker!!!

      Delete

    6. Chère Anne-Sophie de Paris,
      Nous cherchons des moyens de traduire votre français en anglais afin que nous puissions, ainsi que vous-même, participer à une discussion sur vos publications.
      ---
      Dear Anne-Sophie de Paris,
      We are finding ways to translate your French to English so that we and you can join in a discussion of your posts.

      Delete
    7. Thank you Anon15! I would like to read Anne-Sophie's comments but can't get Google Translate to work on my (old) phone. Thanking you in advance . . .
      Kate from Australia

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  25. I posted what a good news it was when the 72 MP wrote to support Meghan. That was the very first day of the news, may be google ate up my comment. Meghan also called in person to thank them. Someone in one of the older posts commented, a wish for the royal family to have spoken in support of Meghan regarding the same support the British MPs gave to Meghan. BRF had faced similar challenges with the media, and would have been more controversial had they spoken up. Alexandria O Cortez - member of US congress had also spoken out her similar experience, her empathy and support for Meghan, was shared to US media. I think it means much when it comes from representatives of the people. That was a very nice gesture.

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  26. Dear fellow readers, how can I translate Anne-Sophie's comments? Thanks in advance for your help.

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    Replies
    1. Open a second page and search for Google Translate. When you open the translator page, the box to the left is where you paste the text to be translated, so choose the correct language at the top (French), then choose English, or your native language in the righthand box. Copy and paste Anne-Sophie's comment to the left box. It's not always perfect, but does a fair job.

      Delete
    2. Lauri - you are one of the pleasant news of the day / an active volunteer who even asks suggestion in how to be of service in translating. As I am one of those invited to suggest and the good feeling it gave me, it makes me think how others can feel if I offer to volunteer for something meaningful and ask what is a good way to do it so the recipient/s can get the best out of it. I experienced how volunteering can enrich as well as disciplined which I did between age 12 and 15. I helped kids from grades 1-3 (general school subjects with home work on weekends at the church). That was the last of it. I continued to want to volunteer over the years, and never got to it.

      Suggestion how you can volunteer? / may be have a French club here (lol)
      Vocabularies are important / may be translate the vocabularies and let people do the fun or the work of connecting the dots to find the meaning.

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    3. I hate to admit it but I studied French in high school, all 4 years but since I haven't spoken/written it since (and that was a loonngg time ago) I don't remember but a word or two. :(

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    4. Lauri- my comment at 22:47 still stands though I figured from your latest post your comment was inquiry than an offer to volunteer. Blame it on sleep deprivation / I can see and think better now. Speaking of sleep deprivation, I am reminded how Charlotte does two tours or events simultaneously for both blogs, work professionally, and much more. We have an excellent example in her not to fall for weakness.

      Delete
  27. Anne-Sophie de Paris5 November 2019 at 21:41

    Lauri sorry !
    I dont speak english.
    Your comments are right.

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    Replies
    1. Please keep posting comments Anne-Sophie! :) It is wonderful to have people from different countries comment and to see different languages written. French is magnifique. :)
      I do not speak French but I am learning Italian so hopefully that will help me understand your comments a little. I appreciate the depth/length of your comments despite not understanding them. Bienvenue e merci! :) :)
      Kate from Australia

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  28. "I wish the same thing Lauri. Camilla was the first person to open her hand to Meghan when she first arrived to the family as both are divorcee. Meghan also has rapproched Harry et Charles. I wish things get better with time like in any other family. A beautifull citation in the Sussex Instagram, very appropriate."thats what appraximatively what was said by Anne-Sophie. I'm not a native English speaker nor a French so my traduction is not that good.

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    1. Us English speakers can still understand you! Your English is definitely readable. :) :)
      I so admire people who can speak multiple languages! What is your native language?
      Kate

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    2. Thankyou Anonymous 5 November 22:10 for the translation.
      Kate in Australia

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  29. Thank you very much R.

    I was going to give it a try to find best way to translate when I have time. The one you suggested did an excellent job. It is much better than google translate found in blogs which does word for word translation and becomes gibberish most of the time. I am no longer lost whenever I see Anne-Sophie's post. Lost, well half the time, and also found myself so familiar with it but lost in my inability to fully comprehend it ( sometimes with regret that I did not keep up with the language).

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    1. I use it when talking on Facebook with my husband's cousins in the Netherlands. I used to just use the translation that is on my Facebook page, but it is--like you said--mostly gibberish. One of his cousins, whose English isn't quite so good as some of the others, started to chat with me one day. He apologized for his poor English, but to me it seemed great. He told me he was using the Google translator, so I checked it out and found it does a very good job with the Dutch. It didn't seem to do as well with Anne-Sophie's French, but well enough I could get the gist. I have used it to translate Hebrew from some Israeli sites, and that doesn't translate quite as well. Probably has to do with phrasing, I suppose, if that is the right term. I'm glad that helped you!

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  30. Anne-Sophie de Paris6 November 2019 at 21:53

    Good Luck handsome charismatic
    Master Archie already 6 months.
    My english no good.
    Sorry!

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