A Darling Shot of Archie as the Sussexes Celebrate Christmas in Canada

It feels like quite some time since we've seen the Sussexes, however, a surprise was in store tonight as the family's Christmas card was shared by the Queen's Commonwealth Trust. Harry and Meghan are seen smiling by a Christmas tree as they watch Archie crawling towards the camera. It's an absolute treat to see the shot of seven-month-old Archie; what a darling baby he is. He very much resembles  both his parents in this photo - a mini Harry with his mother's eyes (take a look at his little jumper).

The message on the card reads "Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from our family to yours". The Queen's Commonwealth Trust, of which Harry is president and Meghan vice-president, has been central to much of their work during 2019, it seems entirely fitting we see the much anticipated card shared by them. They look incredibly happy and excited to enjoy their first Christmas with Archie.

Just sharing the sweetest Christmas Card from our President and Vice-President, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Very Merry Christmas, everyone! pic.twitter.com/McOcHALoGl

— The Queen's Commonwealth Trust (@queenscomtrust) December 23, 2019

This little guy has grown quite a bit since he charmed Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his daughter in South Africa in September.

Speaking of that adorable jumper, Laura identified it as the Boden Polar Bear Cashmere Sweater.

Omid Scobie reports:

"Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan opted for an environmentally friendly e-card this year, sharing a new family portrait with friends, family, colleagues and charities (including all their patronages)."

Omid also revealed the photo was taken by Janina Gavankar. The actress and musician has been a close friend of Meghan's for years. It's great they are spending time with close friends, perhaps this image was taken at a gathering at their Canadian base?

You may recall Ms Gavankar wore a stunning vintage ensemble for the royal wedding.

Embed from Getty Images

The card comes just days after it has been revealed the Sussexes are spending their family break in Meghan's former home of Canada. The country they were staying in was revealed by The Daily Mail, though I'm sure they hoped it might remain a secret until after they returned. I thought they handled it well by releasing a statement rather than endless speculation over the remainder of the month about the location. Canada holds a very special place in their hearts. They spent much of their early courtship in Meghan's Toronto home, where she lived for seven years whilst filming Suits. The decision to choose a Commonwealth country seems a good idea, keeping the focus on their work. You'll remember on Commonwealth Day they attended a reception for young Canadians living in the UK.

In a statement, the Queen's deputy communications secretary Hannah Howard wrote:

'As has been reported, Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are spending private family time in Canada.

The decision to base themselves in Canada reflects the importance of this Commonwealth country to them bot

The Duke of Sussex has been a frequent visitor to Canada over many years, and it was also home to the duchess for seven years before she became a member of the royal family.

They are enjoying sharing the warmth of the Canadian people and the beauty of the landscape with their young son.' 

Following the statement, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted this message.

Should we see an official release on Sussex Royal, I'll update this post immediately. I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful time. I'll be publishing the second part of the Year in Review at some point later in the week :)