Now that the Queen is dead, the long goodbye begins

The Queen died on Thursday, September 8th. At 96, it wasn't a shock. She had looked frail in photos and public appearances in recent years, no doubt having slowly gone downhill after the death of Prince Philip. Those around at the time of the death of her father in 1952, unlikely to provide perspective in how to grieve someone like her. Someone many of us have never met, but who has been a constant in our lives. The only monarch many of us have ever known. We are in a less deferential time, experiencing the event different from previous generations. What would people in Queen Victoria's day make of hearing the news via social media alert?

On Thursday morning I awoke to the news she was under medical supervision, but thought little more about it. She is frail, but she will rally. This is the person who recovered from Covid. She wasn't going anywhere. A photo of her at Balmoral, meeting her latest Prime Minister had her looking frail, but still with that spark. Truth be told, I thought she would outlive us all. We would celebrate her 100th birthday in due course and with concern, while admiring her all the more for it. 

Later that day, when I heard she died, I was surprised. When I heard Prince Charles referred to as The King, I was even more surprised. This was new and would take some getting used to. From this point forward we would have three kings. It is unlikely we will ever say God Save the Queen at any point in our lifetimes. Depending on whether Prince George's first child is a girl, it could be 100 years from now, or more. Who could have known that Wednesday, September 7th would be the last time saying it would apply?

Watching her coffin leave Balmoral for the last time brought it home to me. Watching coverage of her cortege as it made its way to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in the Scottish capital. It will remain in Scotland until Tuesday, when it will make the journey back to London by airplane. We will watch again as it disembarks. Another hearse, another journey, lying in State in Westminster Hall, then her State funeral, before she makes her final journey to St. George's Chapel Windsor. A life, and a death under global scrutiny. 

I'm not a monarchist by any means. I had a respect for the Queen, but truth be told, I've long thought she should retire. No one could argue she has not carried out her duty. The longest serving monarch in British history, she had earned the right to rest, and enjoy her life. When Prince Philip retired from public life in 2017, I thought he had the right idea. No one thought any less of him for doing so. Nor would anyone have thought any less of her. It was difficult to watch her grow frail before our eyes. No one could avoid the reality. It was only a matter of time before we would face a new one. 

On September 19th we will say our final goodbye. Finally, a long earned rest, free from the gaze of the public eye. 

© Marilyn Braun 2022 

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Move over Prince George, there's a new royal savior in town!

Dear Prince George,


Congratulations on your new brother or sister! (or both, depending on what tabloids you might be reading).


You may not be aware of it yet but big changes are coming. One day you will look back on these halcyon days when you were the royal baby. The mythical royal baby with pleasing features in a £55 Les Petites Abeilles romper suit, slaying republicans by doing nothing more than...nothing. You had the royal shtick down pat.


Now there's a new royal savior coming into town. Unfortunately this arrival means you will have to take a back seat on the world's stage for a while. Before  you throw a regal tantrum, remember that you will one day have all of the unearned glory that comes with being who you are. You will also have whatever is left of the kingdom if this new baby does not save it for you.


If the baby does save the union, he or she will have inestimable bragging rights to hold over you for the rest of your lives. If not, you can beat them up later. Either way, this could also lead to some uncomfortable thoughts. You may wonder...


Why didn't they recruit ME to save the kingdom? I was here ALL along?


I slayed republicans, I can handle Scotland too!


I already knew how to say NO!


Screw 'normal childhood', why didn't you politicize me more?


And once your parents get back from vacation they will have some explaining to do. They may tell you:


'you were napping,'
'the nanny didn't want to disturb you,'
'you looked so tired after slaying all of those big, bad republicans, we thought it best...'


Or they may try to blame YOU: 'we were ready to leave the house but you threw a tantrum...'


While there may be an element of truth to those answers, the simple one is this. Since time-immemorial people love babies. Their helplessness, disproportionate head to body ratio, large eyes...they are blank slates which you can project anything on to. By the time the new baby arrived, you were already your own distinct little person and therefore, less malleable and cooperative. Ultimately, nothing competes with a new baby. In other words, them's the breaks, kiddo!


So for now, enjoy being the royal baby. When your sibling arrives, they will get all of the attention, but you can take comfort in knowing you can always beat them up and pull rank when the time comes.


© Marilyn Braun 2014




Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

In defense of Kate critics

Long before she became a global phenomenon, people had opinions about Kate. Opinions which weren't always positive or flattering. At the time I didn't understand people who could criticize someone they had never met. I usually thought that people who were critical of Kate were 'haters'. Over time I've come to realize that not everyone who expresses a critical opinion of her is jealous or a hater. Mainly because I too have become a Kate critic.

Taking Hilary Mantel and Sandi Toksvig as examples, expressing a critical opinion about Kate is obviously risky. Mantel has said that doing so has made her a hate figure. Both have had their looks and lifestyles ripped apart and blasted for being jealous. Kate is young, beautiful, wealthy and privileged and they're not. Why else would they criticize her? When maybe, just maybe, they're expressing an opinion of her. Whether people like that opinion or not.

If you notice, the media very rarely says anything critical about Kate. You would think she walks on water. Which is why when there is criticism, however valid it might be, it stands out in stark contrast. Suddenly the person is jealous/a hater. You can be critical of something/someone without being jealous of it/them right? It should be common sense. If I say I don't like a public figure, for whatever reason, does that mean I am jealous, or am I expressing my opinion? Why does this change when discussing Kate? Would people respond the same to a criticism of Prince Andrew?

This is not to say that people don't hate Kate. There are definately people who are jealous of her. I have read some vitriolic comments on message boards. Creative conspiracy theories about her family. It is amazing how some can hate someone they have never met. On the other hand, I have also read some saccharine articles and comments. It is amazing that some people can love someone they've never met just as much as some people who hate her. When it comes to an opinion about Kate, the middle ground doesn't exist.

I have read that Kate fans supposedly outnumber the critics. Forget the people who are indifferent. They probably outnumber both camps combined. Considering there are 7 billion people on earth, I don't recall a survey about Kate, do you? It is as if everyone, by default, is supposed to love her and worship the ground she walks on. But if you don't happen to feel that way (and say it out loud) well then you must be jealous/have no life/embittered etc. In absence of a constructive counter argument, that seems to be the default response to people who criticize Kate.

I have followed Kate closely since 2007 but I have never held a slavish devotion to her. Certainly I am interested but not enough to emulate her every move. Since her marriage I admit that I have become more critical of her. While there is no denying she dresses well and has nice hair, I honestly do not like the way she is portrayed in the media as nothing more than a clothes horse who is expected to never voice an opinion. I don't like it. And I don't like that the British royal family seems to sanction that one dimensional image. Do I hate Kate? No. I'm just disappointed because Kate herself seems to allow it. The fact that people like Hilary Mantel and Sandi Toksvig get attacked for their opinions disappoints me even more. I highly doubt Prince Charles' critics have this problem.

Like it or not, everyone is entitled to their opinion of Kate. Even those who hold critical ones.

© Marilyn Braun 2013

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Royal Baby Crisis Averted! Everyone Go Back To Your Posts!

Remember how I said that I love the alphabet?

Not only can it be used to write blog posts, poetry and entertaining tabloid articles, it can also be used to put words in someones mouth.  It turns out that a video has surfaced that proves Catherine did not stop herself from using a word beginning with the letter 'D' as she accepted a teddy bear.

For a few glorious days we speculated on what Catherine might have meant when she reportedly said 'Is this for my...d..'  Dog, Dentist, Doula? Dammit! Was Catherine deviously teasing us by using the alphabet in calculated ways? Who could blame her? We deserve to be tortured for our incessant need to know everything about her womb.

The video surfaced as the furore was at its apex. Who knows how long we could have chewed on the letter 'D' for? These moments can be mecca for royal watchers who thrive on the media taking any scrap of trivial information and blowing it out of proportion. Because of this new video we will never know just how many more days this story could have gone on for. Killjoy.

Now the media has had to backtrack on their articles and reports. Prior to this video, some experts knew for sure. After the video, experts now know as much as we do about the royal baby's gender. Reporters were only working with what a woman said she overheard. Catherine had no longer dropped the 'hints' people were certain of. Considering the readily available videos, how difficult would it have been to take a closer listen before running with the story? Now a woman in Grimsby has been made to look foolish. Even if she heard it wrong, who made this a bigger story than it needed to be in the first place?

Crisis averted! Now everyone go back to your posts and pray for some real news next time.

© Marilyn Braun 2013

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

No need to defend Catherine Cambridge, she can take care of herself

This past week there has been some amazing commentary about Hilary Mantel's lecture, Royal Bodies. Everything from how people have ignored the context of her speech to defending Catherine's honor. Those who defend cherry picking from Catherine's past: her university education (she reads!), the positive public reaction to her appearances (she's not plastic, she's warm!), she dated William for nine years (she is ambitious - a sign of character). All cited as evidence of how wrong Mantel is about her. A veritable litany of 'everyone likes Catherine, what is your problem.' Even Prime Minister David Cameron felt compelled to defend her. Looking back on the coverage, if there is anything that this week of debate has reinforced for me, number one is:

Do NOT criticize Catherine in any way, shape or form (even if you did not intend your words to be critical of her).

It's true. Had Hilary Mantel's speech included words of open praise about how wonderful Catherine is and everything she touches turns to gold, it would have gotten lost in the pile of praise. Mantel would have been lauded, a successful author not breaking the cardinal rule about writing or even speaking about Catherine.  Which is:

Do NOT criticize Catherine in any way, shape or form (even if you did not intend your words to be critical of her).

You will live to regret it. Your appearance will be dragged through the mud. You will be called jealous not to mention blamed for people taking further interest in what you have to say by buying your books. Forget Mantel's previous success, it is all part of a devious plan, right?

The defensive, knee-jerk reaction to the speech made me think. This is not the first time Catherine has been criticized, nor will it be the last. Why does Catherine need to be defended? Certainly she is a nice, polite person but she is not a sacred cow. And while she may not be allowed to respond in kind, she should be used to criticism by now. According to some, she needed a thick skin to get Diana's ring on her finger.

Instead of releasing a statement that she was 'disappointed' about Mantel's lecture (if she was even aware of it to begin with), Catherine did what she does best. She let her appearance speak for her. A much heralded and anticipated public appearance became a moment to prove Mantel wrong. Catherine - so strong, keeping her head up, calm, collected, stylish, not betraying a flicker of irritation at Mantel's words. Smoothing the dress over her 'royal bump,'' as if to say, 'I know this is what you want to see.'

It was a masterful performance. Appearing calm, collected, stylish, ignoring the controversy of the moment. Catherine does it so well. People remark about it all the time, calling it 'not putting a foot wrong.' During this recent appearance did we expect anything different from her? Wouldn't she have smiled and patted her bump the same way, regardless?

If she had any thoughts about Mantel's speech she wasn't telling us. She has no voice of her own, and she isn't expect to. Opinion is divided on why but the blame is usually laid at the doorstep of everyone but her. No voice to respond to criticisms about her work ethic. True Catherine is just starting out in her royal life, she cannot be expected to become a respected, hard working member of the royal family overnight. But looking at the coverage focusing on her pregnancy and what she wears, you would think those are the only thing she has going for her.

Surely Catherine must be aware of this? Isn't it time she did something about it? Why not let her work speak for her?

When she lets her work speak for her instead of what she wears or who she is married to, then she will provide people with less obvious ammunition to criticize her. Then she will no longer be exclusively portrayed as someone pretty whose main role is providing an heir and supporting the British fashion industry. The interest in her fashions is understandable but in the long term, how fulfilling will it be for Catherine on a personal level?

As if responding to the criticism about her work ethic, Clarence House released more specific information about the meetings and work she does behind closed doors. It is a long overdue move in the right direction. Announcing more patronages and openly supporting them more frequently is another. It is not good enough to tell us she is working behind the scenes. She needs to show us. Then there will be no need for others to defend her. She will have shown she can take care of herself.

© Marilyn Braun 2013

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Stop treating Catherine Cambridge like she's made of china

Fresh off my post encouraging Catherine to develop her royal role sooner rather than later, imagine my chagrin when discovering an article in the Express. Her father-in-law, the Prince of Wales, has reportedly requested that Catherine use her influence to increase a global brand of tweed.

Not the economic crisis or hunger. Clothing. Not to diminish the cause. All charities think they are worthwhile and important and deserve attention. But it makes me wonder whether Clarence House is underestimating Catherine's ability to be more than just a fashion plate or a part of their arsenal to promote their own interests.

It's obvious that Clarence House is trying to ease her into royal life. There's no denying it's a major adjustment and so far she hasn't put a foot wrong. This is because she isn't allowed to. But are they being too careful with her? Much as been said of Catherine's age, and how this will help her cope with the demands of royal life. When are they going to expose her to those demands? It seems as though Clarence House has her on an extremely short leash. If I were Catherine I would be quite frustrated by this.

Catherine will not shatter into a million pieces if she is given more to do. If she has to shake more hands, give more speeches, take on more causes, glue and paint with more small children. No one is expecting her to compete with Princess Anne in the number of engagements. No one is allowing her to even try. So far her duties have required little of her. This is a mistake. Like with any job, the only way you learn is by doing it. Then challenging yourself to do more. The royal family, of all institutions, should know better than to do otherwise.

I for one believe that Catherine is capable of more than this. One day I hope she will start to believe it too.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Catherine Cambride has style, but does she have substance?

Catherine has mastered the royal wave. She can graciously accept flowers from small children and present shamrocks with élan. Her ability to sell people on pantyhose is par none. She's photogenic and has injected the royal family with much needed glamour. By appearances and demeanor she is born to be royal. Respectful, deferential and silent, minus the field hockey skills, she would fit in well with the Japanese royal house. High upon the pedestal we've placed her, she can do no wrong. For now.

March 19th will mark a milestone occasion for the duchess. She will be making her first speech. Almost a year after her marriage, it has been a long time in coming. Diana made her first speech three months after her wedding on October 29, 1981, when she received the Freedom of the City of Cardiff. Adding some words of Welsh to her acceptance, it was an appropriate touch for the Princess of Wales.

Like Catherine's wedding dress, there is a great deal riding on this appearance. Aside from her engagement interview, wedding vows and some awkward remarks in Denmark, she has said very little in public. This occasion will be a chance to prove herself. Will her voice be a Jacqueline Kennedy whisper? Or will she deliver her words with confidence and conviction? This voice will set the tone for her future role and it is important to get it right.

Until recently, Catherine has had to do little more than stay two steps behind the royal-in-laws and gaze in admiration at everything Prince William does. When her patronages were announced in early January, it was a step in the right direction. Counting the royal tour of Canada, she has carried out more joint engagements than solo.  Now it's time to kick off the training wheels. She's shown she can look the part but now comes the hard work. Like royals before her, Catherine will need to carve out a unique role for herself. Become more than just a fashion plate and someone who supports her husband in his duties. If that's all she is, it is going to be a long, superficial, boring 20 or 30 year wait for the throne.

The choice is now up to her.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Royal Book Challenge The Royal 100 by Alan Hamilton

17/500

The Royal One Hundred: A Who's Who of the First 100 People in Line of Succession to the British Throne by Alan Hamilton
Published 1986
130 pages
ISBN: 0907516939

If you're ever in a royal trivia smack down and need to know who was 57th in line to the British throne, circa 1986, then this is the book for you. Otherwise the charm of The Royal 100 lies in the biographies of those relations who cannot coast on their birthright and keep it real by working for a living. Some who are far down the list even downplay their proximity. As if they have any other choice.

While the first four positions are still currently unchanged, the last 26 years have drastically altered the top 100.  Case in point. The 100th person in this book, Princess Marie Cecile of Prussia, is now, according to some lists, in position 217.

Covering the descendants from King Edward VII to Elizabeth II, the entries are interesting and occasionally humorous. The author touches on Queen Victoria but does not cover all of her descendants. As a result, the reader misses out on the Swedish, Belgian, Spanish, Greek and Danish royals who extend beyond the scope of the list. With almost 6000 people currently in line, it's understandable that the author limited the list to 100.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Catherine Cambridge, a 30th birthday reality check

Dear Catherine/Your Royal Highness/Ma'am/Kate,

I would like to join the other voices in wishing you a very happy 30th birthday today. According to some reports you are having a quiet celebration of this milestone event. While clearing away the decorations and left-over cake, perhaps you could take a moment to reflect on what you really want to accomplish in the years ahead.

True enough, to a degree, the future is all mapped out for you. You will (eventually) produce the obligatory heir and spare. We will see you at all of the major events - Trooping the Color, Garter ceremony, funerals, etc. Where you will stun the crowds while inadvertently distracting from the more sombre moments. It's probably the last thing you want but we just can't help ourselves.

People have pointed out the differences between you and your late mother-in-law, Diana. How you are smarter, savvier, older and wiser than she was. Supposedly because of this you will avoid the perils. I disagree. Like her you are on the same path of becoming the ultimate stylish royal barbie doll. Hitting all of the right fashion notes but nothing more. You've barely spoken in public and you're nice to look at. With the fixed smile, all that's missing is the plastic horse drawn pink carriage.

You recently announced four patronages. It's a good start, though there are some who think you've played it too safe with your choices. Nonsense. Sheesh, even Diana waited 6 years before she shook an AIDS patients hand! Give it a few years and you will be brokering world peace while looking fabulous. All in good time.

It's been a dizzying year for you. What with the wedding, the plaudits and automatic position on all of the 'Best of 2011' lists. The pedestal has a nice view, doesn't it? But take a look back at royal history. What comes up, will come down eventually. You may have the support of your husband and the royal system taking it easy with you, but don't think you're immune. You can only ride the wave of the royal wedding for so long. No beautiful dress will save you from the fickle public.

So it's up to you to decide where you go from here. Do you hide out in Anglesy and deny reality? Will  you continue to be fashion plate Barbie? Or do you choose the more challenging route where you're an asset to the royal family based on the work you do and what you accomplish?

Decide who you want to be, before we decide for you.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday December 4, 2011 - The Royal Family and Balmoral Castle

Since it was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852, Balmoral Castle in Scotland has been a private home to successive generations of the royal family, right up to the present day. On this episode, a look back at the history of Balmoral.

Listen to the episode to find out about the history of Balmoral: The Royals and Balmoral Castle

Publications mentioned

Hello! Canada Weekly No 241 5 December 2011

From My Royal Collection

Eating Royally by Darren McGrady

Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday December 11th, 2011 at 9:00PM EST (North America)

The topic will be: December 11th marks the 75th anniversary of the abdication crisis. On this date King Edward VIII stepped down from the throne and changed the course of the present Queen's life. On this episode a look back at the crisis and its impact on the royal family.

December 11th episode has been postponed

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday November 20, 2011 - Royal Baby Watch - November edition

Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday November 20th, 2011 at 9:00PM EST (North America).

The topic will be: Royal Baby Watch - November edition. Seven months in and still no news of a royal baby. Are William and Catherine under too much pressure to have a baby?


© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday October 2, 2011 - Royal Patronages and Charities

Members of the royal family receive many request to be involved in charities as patron. Far more than they can lend their support to. On this episode the history of royal patronages, a look at charities that members of the royal family support and the reasons they do so.

Listen to the episode to find out: Royal Patronages and Charities

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday in Canada, there will be no episode next week. The Royal Report will return with a new episode on Sunday October 16, 2011 at 9:00PM EST (North America).

Topic to be determined.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Has Catherine's privacy become a royal paradox?

It's always nice to see Catherine, isn't it? Especially as it's so rare to do so. What with her wanting to take her time and ease into royal duties. We can't be blamed for taking what we can get in between.

Catherine reportedly spent 4 hours at the salon. How do we know she was there? Because there's a photo of her getting her hair blow dried. This photo was taken through a window. Whose fault is it that she was photographed? The paparazzi who took the picture? Or is it Catherine's for not sitting in a more private location?

Judging by the comments people like seeing her. But yet there are also comments invoking Diana.  Her life is a parable for what can go wrong. But pointing this out is a downer. Like playing outside and being reminded you have homework. It spoils the fun. Off duty photos are harmless, aren't they? Besides, what are the chances it could happen again?

As you read this article there's no need to comment on the hypocrisy. I know I am not innocent of wanting to know about Catherine.  Nor about using her as material for my blogs. I follow her because she is, currently, the most interesting member of the royal family. A royal superstar. Therefore I can't take the high road. Because then it wouldn't allow me to question what's wrong with it.

However I'm also not alone in my interest. But where do you draw the line? The bedroom? Bathroom?Is she supposed to stay in her remote cottage/palace and become a recluse? She may have signed up for a life in the spotlight, but when did saying 'Catherine's privacy' become incongruous? 

I'm drawing my line in the sand at photographs taken through windows or when she's off duty.

Where do you draw yours?

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday September 25, 2011 - Is it time to stop comparing Kate to Diana?

Since the engagement announcement, Kate has been relentlessly compared to Diana. From her wedding dress, to her fashions, to her approach to her royal role, Kate seems to live in her shadow. Is it time to stop comparing Kate to Diana? Can we stop doing so?

You can listen to the episode here: The Royal Report - Is it time to stop comparing Kate to Diana?

Publications mentioned

Hello! Canada Weekly No 233 3 October 2011

From My Royal Collection

Britain's Royal Heritage: An A to Z of the Monarchy

Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday October 2, 2011 at 9:00PM EST (North America).

The topic will be: Worthy charities and the royals who support them.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday September 11, 2011 - Happy Birthday Prince Harry!

Prince Harry will turn 27 on September 15th, on this episode I discuss Harry's position as third in line to the throne and the expectations placed on him. As well, I get on my soap box about Kate's privacy, what to do when your wedding attendants bail, Star magazine's fertility, and why we should let go of Pippa Middleton's bottom.

You can listen to the episode here:

Happy Birthday Prince Harry!

Publications mentioned

Hello! Canada Weekly No 230 12 September 2011

Tatler Issues: Pippa Rules - August 2011 Volume 306 Number 8

From My Royal Collection

There are Still Kings

Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday September 18, 2011 at 9:00PM ESt (North America)

The topic will be: Five months in and Catherine Cambridge is still not pregnant. Should she get pregnant or are we just being impatient?

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday August 28, 2011 - Do the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge deserve privacy?

Since their marriage Prince William and his wife Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, have been the focus of intense scrutiny. Recent photos of the couple show the couple holding hands on what should be a private moment.

Do William and Catherine deserve privacy? Given their positions on the public stage, Is it too much to expect?

Publications mentioned

People Special Fashion Issue - Kate's Style Secrets

Hello! Canada Weekly No 228 22 August 2011

Hello! Canada Weekly No 229 29 August 2011

Song mentioned

Everyone watched the wedding - Jim Cuddy

From My Royal Collection

Chronicle of the Royal Family

Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday September 11, 2011 at 9:00PM EST.

Topic to be determined

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Report for Sunday June 12, 2011 - Should the minor royals have police protection?

The bill to protect 22 members of the royal family is reportedly £50 million, thus leading people to question whether protecting some of these royals is necessary. Prince Andrew's daughters are rumored to be losing their 24 hour protection, if they haven't already. Should they lose their protection? Do other members of the royal family need protection?

Find out on this episode:

Should some of the minor royals lose their police protection?

Publications mentioned

Hello! Canada Weekly No 219 6 June 2011

Hello! Canada Weekly No 220 13 June 2011

From My Royal Collection

My Decade with Diana: The Perpetual Power of the People's Princess

Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday June 26, 2011 at 9:00PM EST (North America).

The topic will be: More Royal Blogs - what's going on in the royal blogsphere? What has changed? Find out on this episode.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Curious Case of Catherine's Womb

The ink was barely dry on the royal marriage register when the first speculation began on when Catherine would get pregnant. On the evening of the wedding, a reporter noticing the knowing looks the couple gave each other during the service commented:"two may soon become three".

Almost 2 weeks into the marriage and still no announcement? Tsk tsk. Obviously Catherine needs to step up her game. She may be on honeymoon, frolicking in the sand, maybe doing some snorkeling, but that doesn't mean she can't multi-task. After all, a record is at stake. Diana gave birth to Prince William a month before her first wedding anniversary. The Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, cut it close giving birth to Prince Charles 6 days before her first wedding anniversary. Slackers. Queen Victoria gave birth to her first child a bit over 9 months from the day of her wedding.

According to Andrew Morton, if Catherine doesn't get pregnant soon, she'll be defying 200 years of royal tradition. For heavens sake, it's also her duty! Just ask Royal Historian Hugo Vickers. Where oh where are the female historians to remind Prince William of his duty to provide an heir and make his spouse happy?

Forget enjoying married life or that there are 1,400 people in the line of succession behind Prince William. Not to mention that Catherine is not getting any younger. Besides, the sooner she gives birth, the sooner we can start divorce rumours.

With this ring, Catherine gave up not only her freedom but also her womb.

Don't worry Catherine, we'll take it from here.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Wedding Report for Sunday May 8, 2011

After months of speculation surrounding the ceremony, on April 29th Prince William and Catherine Middleton finally became husband and wife. The momentous occasion was filled with beautiful music and memorable moments. From Catherine's dress, to the ceremony, to the atmosphere in London, on this episode a recap of the royal wedding day.

You can listen to the episode here:

The Royal Wedding Report - Recap

Publications mentioned

London Evening Standard Friday April 29, 2011

The Sun Friday April 29, 2011

Hello! Canada - Special Double Issue - The Royal Wedding

Hello! Royal Wedding Special Commemorative Edition

British GQ - Cover story - Prince harry is Walking with the Wounded

From My Royal Collection

Kate and Wills Up the Aisle by Alison Jackson

Websites mentioned

For more details on Kate's dress and the ceremony go to the Official Royal Wedding Website


Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report for Sunday May 15th, 2011 at 9:00PM ET (North America).

The topic will be: Royal Wedding Dress Designers

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

William and Kate, wait for me!

After careful consideration of every ones comments (thank you) on my indecisive post about going to London, I have decided to cross the pond and celebrate the royal wedding with William and Kate. Just in case you're wondering. No, I don't have a ticket to their wedding.

It's a crazy thing to do but it's also a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the royal family doing what they do best - riding on horses and keeping things shiny. Royal weddings do not happen all the time and I don't expect to see a wedding of this scale anytime soon.

I also think that one day, this episode will make a good chapter in my as yet unwritten memoir. Not to mention a pivotal scene in the movie-of-the-week of my life starring the lovely Julia Emma Roberts.

While I'm away in London, probably getting lost on the tube as we speak, the lovely Cinderella from the World of Royalty website, World of Royalty Blog, Royal News Blog and a fabulous contributor to The Kate Middleton Report, will be updating this site and the Kate blog with information from the wedding day.

I shall also attempt to tweet live during the royal wedding and you can follow my royal wedding updates on Twitter at marilynsrylblog

© Marilyn Braun 2011

 Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.