Thursday 12 December 2019

Year In Review 2019, Part 1: "I've Got the Two Best Guys in the World"

With the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on break for the remainder of the month, I thought it an excellent time to begin end of year coverage. 2019 will ultimately be remembered with mixed feelings among royal watchers for a variety of reasons. For those following Harry and Meghan, the joy of Archie's arrival will remain the definitive highlight of the year. We saw the couple undertake fantastic engagements, launch successful projects and another outstanding royal tour. Equally, it's been a year that left this blogger utterly disheartened. In a time which should be filled with happiness, we learned from Harry and Meghan of the enormous distress they are living with on a daily basis. This is nothing most of us weren't already certain of, yet hearing it in their own words and seeing their torment laid bare was heartbreaking to see. We'll be discussing it all in greater detail in Part 2 of the review. Before we dive into that, this post will focus on the year up until Archie's arrival.


January

Fresh from Christmas at Sandringham with the Royal family, the Duchess kicked off her engagements for the year with her patronage, Smart Works. Meghan had been spending quite a bit of time under the radar with the organisation, which we now know formed the early stages of an important project we wouldn't learn about until the end of the summer. The visit coincided with news Meghan had also become patron of Mayhew, the National Theatre and the Assocation of Commonwealth Universities - her first chosen charities as a member of the Royal family. The Duchess teamed an Oscar de la Renta trench with the Hatch Eliza maternity dress for the outing.


Excitement was in the air as the Sussexes enjoyed an away day in Birkenhead for a variety of engagements. These trips are particularly important as they give those across the country, away from London, a chance to showcase their town or city and meet members of the Royal family. Of course, talk was very much focused on Baby Sussex with Meghan revealing she would be "thrilled" if it was a boy or a girl and telling well-wishers Harry would be "a fantastic father". I loved the combination of Meghan's red Sentaler coat and purple Artizia dress.


I remember they ran an hour over schedule that day as they wanted to meet as many people as possible. One young girl was delighted to receive a group hug with the couple :)


For her first public visit to her patronage Mayhew, Meghan met staff, volunteers and beneficiaries to hear more about the animal welfare charity's initiatives across the UK and abroad. In 2018, Mayhew handled over 1,000 welfare cases, rehomed 98 dogs and 380 cats, and vaccinated over 32,000 dogs against rabies overseas to name just a few of their achievements. At the time, Kensington Palace noted: "The Duchess has long understood the connection between animals and community welfare, and has supported various animal rescue centres in Los Angeles."


Meghan was glittering in the showstopping Roland Mouret Sarandon gown for the premiere of Cirque du Soleil’s Totem in support of Sentebale at the Royal Albert Hall. Mouret continues to exceed expectations with his designs and the boat neck gown with wrap skirt was no exception. The styling with a bolder lip colour and Stuart Weitzman sandals completed the look beautifully.


Meghan continued her patronage visits with the National Theatre in a soft blush Brandon Maxwell look. Given Meghan's background as an actress this seemed an ideal fit. The Palace shared a little more detail on the choice: "Whilst Her Royal Highness spent ten years working in television, her training is in theatre. As well as a double major in theatre and international relations from Northwestern University, the Duchess volunteered at a performing arts after-school programme for children in underprivileged school districts in Los Angeles."


January concluded with a visit to the Association of Commonwealth Universities, a patronage passed to the Duchess from Her Majesty. Advocating for accessible education is a strong passion of Meghan's, one we've seen her support from the UK to Fiji to South Africa. Dressed in black Givenchy, the crowds went wild chanting her name as she arrived.


February

It was a snowy day in Bristol as Harry and Meghan arrived for a day of engagements. The inclement conditions didn't deter locals from stepping out to meet the royal couple. It was a fabulous look for Meghan featuring a vintage coat, Oscar de la Renta dress and Sarah Flint boots.


Inside Bristol Old Vic they were greeted by staff. Executive Director Sally Cordwell brought her daughter Ocean to work for the day as nursery was closed due to the weather. Three-year-old Ocean stole the show after being introduced as "Ballerina". When Harry met Ballerina Ocean...


The day in Bristol is one I could dedicate another post too quite easily. There is one engagement I must include though, and that's Meghan's time with One25. The charity supports 150 women involved in sex-working on Bristol's streets, some of the most vulnerable people in the city. As Meghan helped to prepare food for the women (often the only meal they'll get) she said: "I have an idea. Does anyone have a sharpie?". She proceeded to write caring messages such as "You are loved" on bananas. It was a kind and thoughtful gesture. Demonstrating No Good Deed Goes Unpunished in action, she was pilloried in the press and social media. It was a turning point for myself and others, a moment of realisation that the senseless appetite for negativity about the Duchess had reached new heights. We were very much in uncharted territory - a member of the Royal family being attacked for trying to help others.


Duchess Meghan praised the "ripple effect" of Endeavour Fund nominees at the annual awards ceremony. Led by Prince Harry, the Fund offers seed funding for sporting and adventure challenges and helps emerging initiatives with advice, hands-on support and mentoring. Addressing the audience she said: "I'm so, so grateful to be back. Last year was my first time coming and it was such a meaningful night. Before the reception Harry and I were talking to all the nominees and in speaking to one of them he said, you know after I mentioned to him, 'Gosh the impact you guys make is huge. It's so much bigger than you.' No it's not about us, it's the ripple effect. And, in true modesty of all the nominees; yes it is about the ripple effect. What I admired in him - and I feel is true about all the nominees - is you don't have that ripple effect unless each of you is brave enough to make that first wave. It's so important to remember that because what you're doing is inspiring so many people - so thank you from all of us for being that inspiration."


The Duchess opted for a chic white Amanda Wakeley and Calvin Klein ensemble for a gala performance of The Wider Earth in support of the Queen's Commonwealth Trust and the Queen's Commonwealth Canopy.


In mid February, Meghan travelled to New York for her baby shower organised by close friends including Serena Williams, Daniel Martin and Misha Nonoo. It didn't take long before the media began to surround the Mark hotel, and as Meghan left with friend Abigail Spencer, something of a circus ensued as camera crew and photographers followed them. Looking back on it now, I think Meghan's friends organised the trip for her with care, attention and love, though, perhaps not realising the scale of global interest in her at the time. We've seen subsequent trips to the US handled very differently, without anyone even knowing where she's staying, something which is near impossible to do at a hotel. Meghan is an American, and I do hope in the future, an official visit of some sort is organised. Perhaps coinciding with a tour of Canada?


In late February, the Duke and Duchess made their first official visit to Morocco at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Given the tumultuous unfolding of Brexit, we've seen members of the Royal family deployed abroad to lend a touch of "soft diplomacy" to strengthen ties. The trip was not only an opportunity to celebrate the links between the country and the UK but to highlight causes close to Harry and Meghan's hearts. As they stepped off the plane at Casablanca Airport, the Duchess chose a stunning Valentino dress with an embroidered capelet. It was one of her best maternity looks in my opinion.


A trip to the breathtaking Atlas Mountains saw the couple focus on girls education with Educate 4 All. The organisation supports girls from very rural communities in continuing their education beyond primary school. They are often prohibited by the costs associated with travelling to the nearest secondary school, often a number of kilometres away in larger towns. In some rural areas, up to 83% of women are illiterate - a shocking figure. Meghan spoke to students in French before watching a football game outside. The photo below by James Whatling is a favourite of mine and one which always reminds me of the months before Archie's arrival.


The Duchess donned Dior for an evening reception at the British Ambassador's residence in Rabat.


Their final day in the country began with a host of fun activities beginning with a visit to the Royal Federation of Equestrian Sports. They viewed a riding demonstration and discussed caring for the horses with teachers and children. During a grooming session, the couple noticed a Shetland pony named Molly was shaking. Harry asked: "Has anyone got carrots? She's a bit nervous." Meghan added: "We all get camera shy. I understand."


They were great scenes at at Villa des Ambassadors in Rabat for a cooking demonstration. It seemed only fitting for the group to prepare one of the recipe's from Together. They chose the pancakes with honey and almond butter by Cherine Mallah. It's a joy to see the chemistry between Harry and Meghan; they always have great banter, too. There was a funny moment when they were sampling dishes and Meghan turned to Harry and laughed, saying: "Big bite!" He replied: "It's a bit late now."


Following a quick change, they met young entrepreneurs supporting youth empowerment at an arts and crafts market in the stunning Andalusian Gardens. Meghan chose a stylish ensemble featuring a Loyd/Ford Pleated Dress, her Artizia Keith jacket and statement Gas Bijoux earrings.


Royals oven have to navigate diplomatic waters in their roles. A perfect example of this was Harry and Meghan's meeting with King Mohammed VI. At the time there was a great deal of mystery surrounding the King's wife, Princess Lalla Salma, who had not been seen officially since 2017. Multiple media requests were left unanswered. The Princess has been spotted on numerous occasions since in the country and during a visit to New York. Meghan wore a gorgeous blue print Carolina Herrera dress for her final event before returning to the UK.


March

It was a special family event for the Royal family, as they attended a reception hosted by the Queen to mark the 50th anniversary of the investiture of the Prince of Wales. The reception marked Charles' decades of service to the UK and Commonwealth and was an opportunity to celebrate with a range of Welsh charities, organisations and businesses.


Those immersed in The Crown's third season will have seen Charles' investiture covered in great detail. Josh O'Connor delivered a superb performance as the Prince in his youth. Certainly, creator Peter Morgan takes dramatic licence in his take of each episode, however, he beautifully covered Charles' relationship with Wales, one that has continued with dedication in the decades since.


Speaking of The Crown, Princess Anne has been having quite a moment following the depiction of her young years on the series. We often see great photos of her and Meghan interacting and I sense a genuine warmth there. Anne is a no-nonsense woman with a lifetime of duty behind her.


The next day, Meghan made a surprise appearance alongside her husband for WE Day UK, a global initiative to encourage young people to take part in positive social change. During a passionate speech, Harry shared one of Meghan's favourite quotes: "As my wife often reminds me with one of her favourite quotes by Martin Luther King Jr. - 'Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.'"


One of my favourite engagements of the year was the International Women's Day panel discussion Meghan participated in with an incredible group of women. Meghan shared her passion for the Commonwealth, girls education and how pleased she was to be appointed Vice President of the Queen's Commonwealth Trust: "It would be impossible for me to sit back and not do something about it." Meghan added: "Looking at my role, that I'm very, very privileged to have now with the QCT - just expands that platform to be able to go to 53 Commonwealth countries and do this level of work across the globe." Meghan continued: "So, yes I started at 11, but it still feels like the beginning."


On Commonwealth Day, Meghan carried out her final engagements before maternity leave beginning with an event celebrating young Canadians living in the UK. The Duchess chose a gorgeous bespoke ensemble by Erdem. The choice of designer was a fitting one; Canadian Erdem has been established in London since 2005. Meghan has been a fan of his designs since she lived in Toronto.


That afternoon, Harry and Meghan joined members of the Royal family for the annual Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. Each year a new theme is proposed to the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and presented to the Queen for approval. The chosen theme very much leads the agenda throughout the year in terms of activities, plans and areas of focus. This year the chosen theme was 'A Connected Commonwealth', celebrating friendship and goodwill and encouraging collaboration to protect the environment and natural resources. We saw some great footage of Meghan and Charles interacting. I believe he sees Harry and Meghan as central players in his monarchy in the years and decades ahead.


We saw the couple days later for the christening of Mike and Zara Tindall's daughter Lena. Harry was chosen as one of Lena's godparents for the intimate Gloucestershire event. Meghan looked elegant in a coat from William Vintage and a Stephen Jones hat.


On 19 March, the Duke and Duchess visited New Zealand House in London to pay tribute following the horrific tragedy in Christchurch. The Queen asked the couple to represent the family as they were the last royals to officially visit the country. A joint statement from Harry, Meghan, William and Kate concluded with Kia kaha - a Māori phrase used by the people of New Zealand, meaning stay strong. "Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch. We have all been fortunate to spend time in Christchurch and have felt the warm, open-hearted and generous spirit that is core to its remarkable people. No person should ever have to fear attending a sacred place of worship. This senseless attack is an affront to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand, and the broader Muslim community. It is a horrifying assault on a way of life that embodies decency, community, and friendship. We know that from this devastation and deep mourning, the people of New Zealand will unite to show that such evil can never defeat compassion and tolerance. We send our thoughts and prayers to everyone in New Zealand today. Kia Kaha."


Fittingly, Meghan wore a pair of earrings New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern gifted her.


From there, Meghan met with all of her patronages privately and oversaw renovations at Frogmore Cottage. They were very much against the clock as work was done to ensure they could move into their new Windsor home before Baby Sussex arrived.

May

Do you remember the first days of May as we all anxiously awaited the arrival of Harry and Meghan's first child? They were settling into life at Frogmore, and meanwhile the world's media was waiting in Windsor for news. Then on Monday, 6 May, Harry had some very special news to share with us :)


Meghan gave birth to a healthy baby boy at 5.26 am weighing 7lbs 3oz. The couple elected to keep the exact details private. It was later revealed the Duchess gave birth at London's Portland Hospital. Before Harry met Meghan, he spoke of his desire to find the right person and have children. I will never forget the sheer elation on his face as he told reporters: "I'm incredibly proud of my wife. Every father and parent will say your baby is absolutely amazing but this little thing is absolutely to die for. I'm over the moon."


Two days later we had the opportunity to "meet" Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor as his proud parents introduced him at Windsor Castle. 


Mountains of coverage and op-eds criticising the couple for their decision to forego a photo call on the steps of the hospital dominated coverage before Archie arrived. Yet, his unveiling at Windsor couldn't have felt more traditional. We saw a photocall, live footage and a short interview with the couple. Speaking about her son, Meghan said: "He's just been a dream. It's been a special couple of days. He has the sweetest temperament. He’s really calm." Harry smiled and said "I don't know where he gets that from". When asked who the baby resembles, the Duchess said: "We’re still trying to figure that out." Harry added: "Everyone says babies change so much over two weeks. We’re basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month, really. His looks are changing every single day, so who knows?"


The Duchess added: "I have the two best guys in the world, so I'm really happy." I've been royal blogging for over eight years, and Archie's is the fourth birth I've covered. As with George, Charlotte and Louis there is nothing quite like the excitement of seeing the little one for the first time, it's only superseded by seeing the mother's loving and protective gaze. Each time I saw it in Kate's eyes and then Meghan's. Looking back on photos of William and Harry's debut, there are similar shots of Diana. I'd wager many of you have the same images in your own photo albums.


We were also treated to a very special photo of Her Majesty, Prince Philip and Doria with Meghan, Harry and Archie.


In Part 2, we'll be covering the Sussexes' summer, Meghan's projects, the South Africa tour, the Tom Bradby documentary, and the couple's plan to take legal action against the appalling coverage of Meghan.

38 comments:

  1. Thank you for the work you put in to these Year in Review posts, Charlotte. I always enjoy reading them. Here's to what will hopefully be another fulfilling, successful, better, and kinder year for Meghan, as well as Harry.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nicole from france13 December 2019 at 08:19

    So many thanks, Charlotte, this review comes in time , I was missing Meghan so much !!!! I do hope’ we see repeats of many of her clothes, especially the Mouret Sarandon dress which is gorgeous !!!
    Such a pleasure to be reminded of all the work she has already done , I. An’t help but th8nk she is working under the radar during this month away from the cameras , as any working woman, annoying her family and friends in between two work meetings . I was so happy to see again the sheer happiness in all Harry’s body when he announced Archi’s birth , he really was amazing !
    I wish you all readers as happy a Christmas time as possible , enjoying some time away from any politics, bullyings , dramas, just ... a good moment with beloved and friends !

    ReplyDelete
  3. Thank you for this amazing recap Charlotte. It shows that the couple really went above and beyond to make a lasting impact on those they met. In hindsight, I like the Morocco tour even more. They seemed very happy on that tour and did a great job.
    It is important to see that there were many good things happening to the Sussexes as well. They have moved into their dream home, welcomed a healthy baby boy just before their wedding anniversary, their names were chanted almost everywhere they came and people showed them much love, they got to spend time with friends and family, Meghan had her mum by her side for the birth and some time after, they kept their love with Harry and were a great team. I think even Sussexes should look back at all these blessings,too and take some happiness from them, nkw that they might feel low.
    Ella

    ReplyDelete
  4. Thank you, Charlotte. In this world of instant clicks & likes & and trolls & hateful indignation spewing out into the world 24/7; I believe that staying grounded, true to one's self, putting one's head down and doing the work and continuing to believe in one's own worth is one of the most difficult tasks any individual can face.

    The Sussexs chose to take on an extraordinary level of change in a stunningly short period of time. That would have been enough challenge for anyone. However, as members of one the world's most prominent and elevated families (and with all the ongoing dynamics in that troubled clan), coupled with the intense scrutiny of their every action, I marvel at the poise they are able to maintain.

    Will they be fragile from time to time (as was evident in the two interviews given on their recent tour)? Of course. They are human. I'm sure they do look back as Ella (09:53) recommends and do take happiness from the many achievements and blessings in their lives. But, just as they CHOSE to hit the ground with boots on and running, they have now CHOSEN to take a short break. Good for them.

    They seem to be very good at flying under the radar when they want to. I hope the find ways to build those kinds of breaks into their lives in order to recoup and maintain the level of service to others to which they both aspire.

    For my part, I CHOOSE (and have done so now for many months) not to click on any links to those papers which consistently malign them (and others) with innuendo and misrepresentation and outright falsehood. I'll give my support to the Sussexs, not trash tabloids and dubious "news."

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I totally agree.....I believe that they are trying to attract the clicks and I will not give them that support

      Delete
  5. She is such a delight! And thank you, Charlotte, for putting together this post. When I first heard of her, it was her smile that I loved the most. I hope she is truly happy despite the awful media -- she does have the two best boys in the world!

    I had forgotten how much I love some of her pregnancy looks -- she can make cream or navy look heavenly!

    I was a bit amused by Sarah Ferguson's defense of Meghan, perhaps a bit late? I did not appreciate her tying Meghan's abuse to that of herself and then to Andrew, though! Sarah had some great unfairness in that her weight was targeted. That was certainly awful! I also remember an outing where she and Diana were "cutting up" and pretending to poke an umbrella into the rear of a man in front of them. They were silly and gitty and should not have been forced into their positions until they were more mature. I certainly did things at that age that should not be filmed. :) I hope Sarah's defense is indicative of a close relationship between her and her daughters and Harry and Meghan.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Duchess of York is the last person I’d want defending me, just saying.

      Delete
  6. Becca H in Colorado13 December 2019 at 20:03

    What a year it's been! And so fun to look back on it all. Many of their appearances run together in my mind after awhile and it's hard keeping them straight, so I always love these posts, Charlotte.

    Harry and Meghan, both, achieved so much this year, not to mention the incredible step of becoming parents. Looking back over the engagements and seeing how the dots connected with their projects makes it even more glaringly obvious that they deserve nothing but the best coverage. I'm hoping for a better year for them on that front, come 2020. I'm also looking forward to more non-maternity looks!

    I got an official response to a letter of encouragement I'd sent Meghan a few months ago. I'd actually forgotten about it, so it was really exciting to see the "Royal Mail" envelope in my mailbox last night!

    I hope their extended break is doing them well, although I miss seeing them. The Christmas walk to church is always such a fun event, but I know they desperately needed some time away. I guess it will make their return in January that much more exciting!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Are you the person I've been reading about that received a letter from Meghan in response to your encouragement? Either way, how exciting to see that Royal Mail envelope in your mailbox! And how lovely of you to send Meghan your kind words of encouragement!

      Delete
  7. Becca H in Colorado13 December 2019 at 20:04

    Forgot to add that if the Sussexes do come to America on tour, you can bet I'll be flying to New York lol

    ReplyDelete
  8. Thank you for this great recap, Charlotte. It is gratifying to see the very helpful and positive results of Meghan's work with her charities. She is indeed "value added" to her patronages. It is clear that she is hard-working, productive, effective, and creative in her approach to her royal work. She is also, judging from comments of all her know or have met her, very kind, and seems to have an understanding of others' situations, which I think is what makes her profoundly compassionate, or contributes to her profound humanity, in the Archbishop's words. I've developed much admiration and respect for Meghan as a public figure and for her philanthropy. One of the most memorable moments for me relating to the Sussexes is Harry's impromptu appearance to announce the birth of that delightful baby Archie. His giddy joy, and his appreciation of women and the miracle of birth, were an absolute delight to see. Also, I found Meghan's words about having the "two best guys" making her "happy" very poignant indeed. I saw it as a reference to the misery inflicted on her by a xenophobic, racist, and sexist press coverage, and the downright cattiness of internet trolls. Over that, Meghan is counting her blessings. By marrying Harry, Meghan exposed herself to hatred and criticism that she would not have experienced before in what she herself described as a relatively "quiet" life of work, friends, and philanthropy. I wish Harry and Meghan and little Archie bean a happy Christmas, and a smoother new year blessed with happiness.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hope that the way the lawsuits Harry & Meghan have initiated will do something to rein in the the onslaught of vitriol "inflicted on her by a xenophobic, racist, and sexist press coverage, and the downright cattiness of internet trolls."

      A free press is not a vitriolic and hateful press. A free press is not a press given license to print innuendo, deliberately misrepresent the facts and perpetuate falsehoods as "news."

      After a short reprieve for M&H by virtue of their recent absence coupled with the accusations against Andrew and his removal from Royal duties, I noticed that the headlines I refuse to click on are back at M&H with the most egregious stuff again. Ironically, under the guise of "breaking" news, the papers recycle the same ridiculous speculation they have always pedaled about any member of the RF at one time or another--someone is feuding, someone has broken protocol, someone threatens to topple the House of Windsor and it goes on blah, blah, blah.

      Hard as it is to do, I think H&M (as well as the other royals) simply must put their heads down, let their good works speak for themselves, and from time to time when things get intolerably vile sue. The tactic has worked before. That, or reward the papers which report fairly with access, photo ops and stories. The charming innocuous stuff (someone gets a pony) as well as the important stuff (Kingdom, Commonwealth or charity initiatives and events).

      If I were their communications advisor, I would also have them turn off the comments functions on their social media accounts. Most of what the loving fandom has to say is not worth reading. Besides, they can always write a letter. Without a platform on which to comment, the haters would be silenced.

      Delete
    2. Annette New Zealand17 December 2019 at 02:07

      I fully support these comments. We don't seem to have the level of mean gossip here in New Zealand - at least not in the mainstream news media. However there are always some people in every society who are unable to restrain their worst impulses. If we ignore them it may diminish.

      Delete
  9. Thank you for such a lovely post Charlotte!! It’s wonderful to relive the birth of Archie, the interview with Harry thanking the horses will stay in my heart forever!!

    2019 has certainly been a full year for the Sussex’s and those who are inspired by them. As the year comes to a close, I’m excited to see how they will inspire us in the years to come.

    Lastly, I sincerely hope and pray that the new year will bring about peace, love, abundance and joy for all!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Thank you Charlotte, a lovely recap! 2019 was a year filled with blessings & wonderful accomplishments for the Sussexes. It has been a joy to follow them, learn about interesting causes & charities and also support them. However as a royalist it has been a disappointing year in which it seems ignorant and bullying behaviour has become acceptable among too many. I will never forget the attacks against Duchess Meghan while she was pregnant and working proficiently to help others. I hope there will eventually be punishment for all those that participated & profited from unwarranted actions against Meghan & Harry.

    I do hope that these weeks away will be good for the Sussexes and the new year will be filled with joy & peace.

    Dena

    ReplyDelete
  11. Thank you Charlotte for the amazing summary (part2 eagerly awaited!), and thanks to many above who have so eloquently expressed my own feelings on the plusses and minuses of 2019.
    I was noticing afresh the beautiful brocade dress Meghan wore to Charles' investiture anniversary. Its provenance was not known then, and as there has been no update I assume it remains unknown? Just wondered if it had been identified somewhere. Also interested in the ring she was wearing. Any ideas?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That brocade dress is gorgeous and I really hope to see her wearing again!!

      Delete
  12. Anne-Sophie de Paris15 December 2019 at 18:58

    C'est avec beaucoup d'émotion que j'ai lu le récapitulatif. Quel travail Charlotte !Merci pour tout.

    Je vais prendre l'exemple sur plusieurs d'entre vous du blog à ne cliquant plus sur les liens chargés de haine sur Meghan !

    Ils me mettent effectivement hors de moi et je crie à l'injustice.
    Heureusement que ce blog existe car il est très bienveillant et juste.

    Revenons au couple de Sussex.
    J'ai le "tournis " en suivant le fil de toutes les actions qu'ils ont menées en une année.

    Il y a de quoi être épuisés..Heureusement que Master Archie est là comme un" don du ciel"

    Je leur demande de regarder de l'avant ,de poursuivre leurs différents projets sans aller jusqu'à l'épuisement.

    Avec le départ du prince Andrew du champ officiel, les différents patronages seront répartis entre le reste de la famille ,la princesse Anne, les Wessex et les Cambridge.
    Les Sussex quant à eux prendront aussi leur part.

    Comme ont dit " qui veut aller loin doit ,ménager sa monture ".

    Ils sont des royal's de la jeune génération et avec une monarchie resserrée, ils seront amenés en plus de leur centre d'intérêt à s'investir à fond pour la monarchie avec d'autres contraintes.

    Bonne chance à eux et bravo pour tout ce qu'ils ont fait en si peu de temps.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Thank you, Charlotte, for this lovely recap of the first part of Meghan and Harry's year. It's great to see them looking so happy again as they awaited the birth of their beautiful Archie, and to be reminded of the great many appearances and charities they championed.

    R

    ReplyDelete
  14. What fun to take a look back. Charlotte thank you so much for so many wonderful blog posts over the last year.

    I will say, I really do love that Oscar de la Renta trench, and the Red and Purple combo was wonderful. She really rocked the all cream with the Amanda Wakely coat and Calvin dress but pairing with the olive green was chic. On the Morocco trip the Valentino red outfit paired with the soft pink on arrival and the gorgeous blue print Carolina Herrera dress was stunning. Lastly, I really like the lines of the vintage coat she wore to Cousin Zara's second daughter.

    Meghan has blossomed - especially with the birth of her son. Harry as well. I do hope they've had some great personal time.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Anne-Sophie de Paris16 December 2019 at 07:10

    J'ai parcouru à nouveau le récapitulatif.
    Ce couple est vraiment lumineux.l'amour transparaît dans leur regard .
    C'est vraiment un atout charme pour la monarchie et le Royaume -Uni .
    Je leur souhaite du courage et qu'il nous revienne vite.
    Archie a dû grandir. Je l'imagine avec une frimousse "coquine " clone de son papa au même âge.

    J'avais écrit un long texte, où j'exprimais plus des "conseils" pour que le couple puisse se protéger .
    Je ne sais pas si mon premier texte est parti.

    Bonne semaine à tous.
    Anne Sophie

    ReplyDelete
  16. Thank you for the recap Charlotte. It is amazing to actually remember all the things Meghan (and Harry) has done and achieved this year. January was very busy with the visit to all the patronages. I am excited to see what big projects will take place in 2020 for the Mayhew and the National Theatre. Love the away day visits; hope they do more of those in 2020. The Morocco visit was excellent and truly the crowning glory was the arrival of Archie and Harry's announcement. That video will forever make me happy and smile. I will reserve my discussion on press coverage and vitrol aimed at the Sussexes but most particularly Meghan for part 2 of the recap.

    I am hopeful and prayerful that 2020 will be a much happier and calmer year in terms of coverage and reporting of the Duchess. I am glad they are having this time away. So much has happened and changed in the live of Meghan in particular these past years and it is imperative that they look after themselves first and foremost. This goes for all of us really, you cannot keep giving from an empty tank. The tank needs to be refueled from time to time for us to operate at our optimum.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anne-Sophie de Paris17 December 2019 at 22:05

      Amina Sanni
      Je partage entièrement votre commentaire et tous les autres sans restriction.

      Delete
  17. Thank you Charlotte for curating such convivial and pleasant discussion. I've enjoyed reading everyone's comments very much.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Dear Charlotte,
    Thank you so much for your intrepid reporting on our beloved Duchess Meghan and her fabulous +2. I first learned about Meghan here on your lovely blog, which continues to be my only source for info on M&H. I never click on despicable sites.
    I don’t comment much, but I appreciate your work and dedication on behalf of this hardworking couple.
    My reaction to whatever Meghan chooses to wear in public: I either love it, or I like it.
    My reaction to M&H’s work: I am very impressed and motivated by their causes and their devotion to helping others. I learn from them, and I learn from you, Charlotte!
    Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to all!
    Renee

    ReplyDelete
  19. Royal 👑 Watcher20 December 2019 at 10:47

    I miss my favourite Sussex duo! I hope they have a good rest, and come back soon xxx

    ReplyDelete
  20. Anne-Sophie de Paris20 December 2019 at 22:04

    Bonsoir Charlotte,
    Avez vous une idée de la date de publication de la carte de voeux des Sussex ?
    Merci d'avance pour l'info.
    J'ai vu celle du couple de Galles- Cornouailles celle et des Cambridge. Très jolies et très sympa
    Photo du prince Charles prise probablement lors de leur visite officielle à Cuba.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Not sure if you heard Charlotte but our PM Trudeau just announced that meghan and Harry will be celebrating the Xmas holidays in Canada for part of the time. No dates or exact locations will be involved for their privacy but they will be meeting the PM whom is their personal friend!

    Very exciting.

    Cheers and Merry Christmas from Canada

    ReplyDelete
  22. Will the Sussex release a Christmas card?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I believe they will. Keep an eye over the next couple of days :)

      Delete
  23. Anne-Sophie de Paris21 December 2019 at 20:09

    J'ai appris la même nouvelle que vous Mélissa Hafting et je suis contente pour eux.
    Le Canada a une place particulière dans leur vie.Meghan y a vu sa carrière d'actrice décollée. Elle a séjourné pendant près de 7ans.
    Leur premier sortie s'est passée la-bas. Harry a rendu visite à plusieurs reprises à Meghan quand elle y habitait.
    Normal que Baby Archie voit le pays où ses parents ont débuté leur romance jusqu'à ce que le pot aux roses soit découvert.
    Du reste Meghan connaît bien le Premier Ministre avant sa rencontre avec Harry.
    Je dirai que c'est un retour dans son deuxième pays d'adoption qui doit lui rappeler de bons moments où elle etaitc connue comme actrice ,signait des autographes et sortait sans être poursuivie par les tabloïds avides de sensationnel

    Ce temps malheureusement est révoqué.
    Joyeux Noël à tous.

    J'ai vu Harry dans une vidéo où il s'était déguisé en père noël.
    Son discours comme d'habitude était poignant.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Harry’s face announcing Archie’s birth is Everything. He wears his heart on his sleeve.
    Very sad that the rest of the Royal Family has not shown Harry and Meghan support.
    My respect for the Queen has diminished.
    Thank you very much for your blog.
    Merry Christmas and a calm and happy New Year to all.

    ReplyDelete
  25. It would be lovely to see a Christmas card with Harry, Meghan, Archie, and Doria!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anne-Sophie de Paris23 December 2019 at 06:54

      Allison,
      Je ne pense pas personnellement que cela soit une bonne idée " c'est ce qu'on appelle, donner un bâton pour se faire battre "!
      Les haters et trolls s'en donneront à coeur joie "!

      Ce serait aussi à mon avis irrespectueux pour la famille royale. Doria avec eux pour une photo officielle de Noël serait inopportun à mon sens.
      Bonne semaine.

      Delete
  26. The card is out, and it is adorable! A happy family enjoying baby Archie’s first holiday season.

    ReplyDelete
  27. The card is out, and it is adorable! A happy family enjoying baby Archie’s first holiday season.

    ReplyDelete

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 :)