President Obama has a paper cut!..and other such nonsense

Sometimes royal news seems to be just that silly. Take for instance Prince William and Kate Middleton. Recent reports say that they are secretly engaged, that they have come to an understanding, that Kate is sending subtle messages by wearing the color blue to a society wedding. Don't believe me about the blue dress? Take a look here.

Forgive my skepticism but over the years I've heard so many rumours surrounding their engagement, so many signs that it's imminent, so many commentators with straight faces letting us know that This. Will. Be. The. Year.

Maybe, maybe not. But then 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and even this year, 2009 have been THE year too. Pull a number out of a hat, such as 2011, and if they're still together by that point, one day commentators may be right.

I'd like them to get engaged just as much as the next pro-Kate royal watcher. But I'm not going to hold my breath, I'm taking a wait and see approach. My hopes have been raised and then dashed one too many times.

Until an engagement is announced by Clarence House, speculation about their relationship is in the same league as news that President Obama has a paper cut.


© Marilyn Braun 2009

When Sunday Best Isn't Available

When Michelle Obama arrives in London with her husband, President Obama, she will bring with her that unquestionable sheen of the extremely accomplished that can only make any woman standing next to her look inferior. In the presence of the most interesting First Lady in almost 50 years, the Queen herself may feel a momentary lapse in self-confidence. Having your image and face on stamps and currency cannot compete with the First Toned Arms.

While in the United Kingdom she will also meet with Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The woman who famously succeeded Britain's version of Michelle Obama, Diana, Princess of Wales. Diana, the one with the Royal Toned Limbs, the charisma, height and honorary degrees in dentistry that would have been more than a match for Mrs Obama. Alas we can only imagine Diana and Michelle sizing each other up so we're left with Camilla.

How embarassing to have to serve left-overs instead of Cordon Bleu.

© Marilyn Braun 2009