She had attended a state dinner the night before at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto. Looking lovely as always, she brought out the tiara and priceless jewels. But it was not the jewels that people noted but the gown she was wearing: a long white lace gown adorned with sequins and pearls around the neckline and a glittering maple leaf appliquéd to the shoulder. Yet another fashion tribute to Canada. (Oh, stop Your Majesty, you're making us blush!)
Looking sprightly despite the heat and late-evening, the Queen was ready for the 21-gun salute at Ontario's Legislature, afterwards unveiling the last plaque of her visit: commemorating the 150th anniversary of the dedication of Queen's Park by her great-grandfather, before he was crowned King Edward VII.
She then headed to Pearson International Airport for a badge ceremony with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean before departing on an Airbus bound for New York City.
Given her age, there is some discussion regarding whether this will be her last visit to Canada. I like to think that it isn't. During her 2005 visit I had the same thoughts and yet she visited us again and she is reportedly scheduled to return in 2012 to mark her Diamond Jubilee.
Let's hope that's true!
© Marilyn Braun 2010
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