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.

The Kate-Effect Hits The Alphabet

God I love the alphabet. So many letters to chose from. You can make up all kinds of words and stories and blog posts with them. This week, taking a page out of Sesame street, the royal world decided to focus on the letter 'D'.

For the last few days, the letter D has taken on a significance and prominence we could never have predicted. Prior to Tuesday, it was just the fourth letter of the alphabet. Used to spell words like decalogue and deinotherium. Kate's visit to Grimsby changed that.

During her visit to Grimsby, as Kate greeted crowds on her walkabout she was handed a teddy bear and a woman overheard her say "Oh, is this for our d ... " before stopping herself. The media replayed the video from the moment, listening to the audio for clues as to whether Kate had almost said 'daughter'. The verdict is still out on whether Kate actually said 'D' at all, but no matter. If hearsay is all we have to work with, well then so be it. The Kate effect had hit the alphabet and everyone was deliriously off and running.

A split second suddenly had the world on the edge of their seats. Did the letter D mean we had finally unlocked the secrets of the royal womb? Had Kate slipped up and revealed the sex of her baby? Could this much anticipated fetus/savior of the monarchy be...a daughter?

Calmer heads wisely recognized that there are other words that begin with the letter D. Could Kate have been taking the teddy bear for her d....driver?...dog?..dietitian?...doula?...detective?..dance instructor?...dermatologist?..designer? It became Sesame Street for royal watchers and toddlers as we rediscovered D words. Some even wondered if Kate was being devious to throw us off the scent.

With all of the media furor surrounding 'D' I will add another word to the list.

Desperate.

© 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.

Shhhhh...don't say it too loudly. Maybe it's time for the Queen to cut back her duties

Much like the observation I made about how no one is allowed to criticize Catherine and get away with it, there is another topic that seems to be off-limits. Despite the Queen's age and her recent trip to the hospital, one thing has become clear.

Do not question whether the Queen should scale back her royal duties.

Nope. She will die with her boots firmly strapped on, thank you very much.

Look at people scoffing at the Pope retiring. Regardless of how gracefully he did it. Our Queen would never do that! If she were to scale back, would people see it as a dereliction of her royal duties or breaking her sacred oath? She was 27 when she made that vow. Could something have changed in the interim?

Much like the any discussion about her abdicating, there seems to be no question about delegating. Whatsoever. That's what people say. What the Queen herself thinks is unknown. But looking back over her medical history, as the Telegraph so helpfully did we can see that she is made of good stock. Which is very impressive but doesn't change the fact that she is almost 87.

Another thing that has become clear. Though maybe people are not willing to admit it lest it jinx everything.

The Queen is human. And mortal.

And this must come as a shock because she seems as though she will live forever. The Victorians must have felt the same way about their Queen too. But look what happened. While Queen Elizabeth seems to be superhuman in terms of her work ethic, she gets ill. She goes into the hospital, media camp outside, her obituary one click away from being posted. Could it be that she needs to start slowing down?

Shhhhhhh....

Slow down? How dare you insinuate that she might be human and mortal. That she might have limits. What's up with that?

I don't think anyone would suggest that the Queen completely retire. (Actually I did, but never mind). Nor are they suggesting she should move into a retirement community where no one will ever visit her. Quite the contrary. People may think she can go on forever and take pride in her stamina but mark my words. The older she gets, the louder the question will become.

As unquestioningly dedicated to the service of her nation as she has been, there are benefits to passing the torch. Especially while she is still cognizant enough to do so. She has a son waiting in the wings and a younger generation growing older by the minute. All ready to help out if need be. And wouldn't it be good for them to have a chance to shine while they're all still photogenic and vertical?

Maybe the time has come for her to seriously consider...

Shhhhhh....

© 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.

Kate Middleton: The sacred cow of the moment

Kate Middleton...err..Catherine Cambridge cannot put a foot wrong...

She is beautiful, everything a princess is supposed to be...

She is a style icon in the making and every woman wants to be her...

 Even her natural fear of childbirth is to be noted, evidence of her humanity.

But woe betide anyone who dares to state differently. Or in this case, points it out the obvious without sugar coating it.

Leave that to the people who adore her. They know best and can say it better. Discuss, in serious tones, that she is primarily known for her appearance and requirement ability to breed and you are blasted because you are so jealous you can't think straight. *Gasp!* Criticism? (However valid it might be?) That's irrational. After all, you don't know her now do you?

Neither do the people who praise her. Those referred to as 'sycophants'. Praising for no other reason that she is has married into the royal family, she is pretty and now she is fertile. She sells clothes. What she does is not nearly as important as how she looks. Until Kate lets her work speak for her, what else is there to say?

True, there is vicious criticism of her online. Just as there is cavity inducing praise. A well thought out critical argument is now a 'venemous attack'. It goes against the script, the fairy tale. Anything critical can be spun. An ill-timed, expensive vacation becomes a well deserved 'baby moon'. Spending too much on clothes? Part of the job. And the ultimate criticism. Her work ethic. Suddenly akin to a four letter word. How dare she be asked to become a working royal? Let's make it more palatable by calling it 'supporting her charities' instead. Try this:

Catherine needs to work more vs. Catherine needs to 'support her charities more frequently'.

Go ahead, explain the reasons she doesn't 'support her charities more'.

There is no denying that she looks nice and wears clothes well. Was she chosen for her appearance? Because she carries herself well? Doesn't hurt. Had she weighed 160 pounds I highly doubt people would ignore it. Then it would become 'why would William choose someone who looks like that'? Kate is praised for being 'just like us', accessible, every woman. But now every woman doesn't have a muffin top, do they?

Much like Sarah Ferguson and Diana, Catherine is the sacred cow of the moment. Someone who can do no wrong.

For now...

© 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.

How do you draw the line at royal privacy when others keep moving it?

Well, a few weeks back I asked for a royal scandal didn't I?

Okay, so no one has abdicated, or died or came out of the closet. (Geez, work with me people!) This time round it is just some photographs of Catherine's bump in a bikini frolicking on the beach with his/her parents to be.

*Gasp* Shock, horror!

Okay, maybe these photos are not that scandalous but if this is all I have to work with then so be it.

Photos of William and Catherine on holiday are nothing new. Photos of Catherine in a bikini, are also nothing new. So it was rather predictable that we would get photos of this holiday too. Inevitable. So predictable that if you bet money on whether there would be holiday photos you would win every time.

In this instance we have most of the ingredients for a semi-royal scandal. While no one has yet to tearfully express contrition, we do have columnists writing interesting opinion pieces about the press and privacy and how William should pick his battles. Some columnists gloss over the privacy issue and compliment Catherine how how beautiful she looks. So far royal reaction has been rather muted. Merely a statement expressing 'disappointment'. A true royal scandal has someone described as 'incandescent with rage' or 'seething'.  Note the difference.

Yes, it is all a fascinating insight into the continuing saga of William and Catherine's privacy. In the past I was frustrated and annoyed when I would see photos of Catherine off duty. Sometimes I felt I was the only one expressing indignation while others were completely okay with it. The pictures were fun, harmless, right? Not only that, we could use them to discuss what she was wearing. Forget privacy, where did she get those shoes from?

I've always felt, and I've stated this before, that to truly respect Catherine and William's privacy, no photos of them should be published when they are off duty. They are in private and deserve privacy. This should be rather straightforward, no? I'm well aware this isn't realistic but if those photos are OK the it was only a matter of time before we expected more. People pay lip service to the memory of Diana, while being just as invasive. People decide when they think the paparazzi have crossed the line and when they haven't. Some things seem to be okay, but yet others are not. For instance.

Photos of Catherine walking her dog are OK
Photos of her shopping are OK
Photos of her going for coffee are OK
Photos of her sunbathing topless are bad.
Photos of William and Catherine strolling on a beach with their dog in Wales are OK.
Photos of William and Catherine strolling on a beach in a Mustique are bad. (Maybe if the dog was there it would be okay?)

And how do people justify all of these incidents?

William and Catherine are in PUBLIC. Public being defined as being outdoors where people can see them. Does the location matter? Not really. Remember, they're outdoors and depending on how you feel about it, they don't own the locations they're photographed in, now do they? In effect, William and Catherine are fair game.

It seems that the the less clothing they have on, the more the outrage increases. Apparently it's okay to take pictures of them in public as long as they leave something to our imagination.

Interesting how people who justify the other incidents express indignation at these photos without realizing the public role in creating an appetite for them. Suddenly William and Catherine's privacy has been violated and someone else is to blame. (By the way. I call BS on people who claim they didn't search for the photos or look at them, citing 'respecting their privacy'.)

So I give up! I officially declare that I am now, deliberately, part of the problem (I always was but didn't want to admit it to myself until now.) Not because I dislike theses pictures, but because the line for their privacy keeps shifting. Because it does not stay in one place, it is very difficult to decipher where it truly belongs when one appearance in public is okay but another appearance in public is wrong.

When someone permanently draws a line in the sand about this issue, let me know.

© 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.

Catherine Cambridge is one step closer to sainthood

It's official. Since April 29th, 2011, Catherine Cambridge is the greatest person who has ever deigned to walk the earth amongst us.

We want her nose, clothes, hair, teeth and to get pregnant at the same time. Even her dog is better than yours. Don't believe me? Read this and weep at how inadequate we are in comparison. Thankfully she isn't a full time royal yet, so your work ethic is safe. Just don't get complacent.

Irrefutable proof of
our inadequacy

Everything Catherine touches turns to gold. No one goes shopping like she does. Or holds a cup of coffee with such je ne sais quoi.  she never spills and always recycles. She breathes with an élan that we can only breathlessly admire. When she gives birth, there will be no need to read the news. A star will be above the hospital guiding us to the blessed child, whose receiving blanket will sell out once he/she appears in it.

Catherine will be the perfect mother, or so we will be told. Never shall an impatient thought cross her mind. The child's diapers will be sweet. The contents capable of bringing world peace. Tied with Baby Jesus for halo size and awe inspiring serenity. He/She is already wealthier than you can ever dream of being. But this pales in comparison to having Catherine as the most perfect mother. Ever.

Yes. Catherine is the best person who ever lived. Or so we are told. When it comes to our opinions, there is no middle ground. Those who praise are sycophants, those who are critical are jealous. Only Catherine, high on her pedestal, is above it all. 

We only need to read the news to see who placed her there.

© 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.

Don't you just love a royal scandal?

I don't know if you've noticed but lately there's been a lag in royal news. Queen Beatrix's abdication just serves as a reminder of how dull British royal news has become. It is truly a sad situation when other royal houses do more interesting things than the British do.

Case in point. The Dutch abdication is historic. Right now all we have to work with is Kate going to Starbucks and shopping at the Gap and Harry expressing ambivalence towards his destiny. Ho hum stuff. The British royal family is ripe for a royal scandal in 2013. I just know it. I'm not referring to a scandal where someone dies. Nothing that dire. No, what we need is a scandal we can sink our teeth into, one that lights up Twitter and royal message boards and inspires columnists to write sanctimonious articles that add nothing to the solution.

2012 was not a boring year. What with the photos of Harry in Las Vegas and Kate's topless photos in France. If I had known that was the best the royals could do, well I would have savored the fallout more. So far 2013 has turned out to be rather dull in this respect. True, it is January. But as February approaches, the signs are not good.

It's not as if we don't have something to look forward to. Yes, yes, I know William and Catherine's baby will arrive in July. Yes, the Queen is celebrating the anniversary of her coronation. I'm sure Charles and Camilla will take the tube again. Maybe this will be the year Princess Anne smiles.  *Yawn* Excuse me while I await the stamps, coins and multiple commemorative issues from Hello magazine.

Harry used to be the go-to royal for entertainment value. What with his rugged good looks and complete inability to distinguish from inside your head thoughts vs outside your head thoughts.Much like when Fergie reappears. It seems they can no longer shock us. It's more a case of shaking heads and sighing "OK, what did she/he do this time?" The only way Harry could shock us now is if he said something diplomatic.

I'm not picky. I'll settle for an illegitimate child, maybe someone can unexpectedly come out of the closet. If they run out of ideas they can look to the Monegasques and run off with someone from the circus or marry someone against their will!

Fingers crossed!

© 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.

Why I think the Queen should abdicate

Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands abdication has brought up the question over whether the present Queen should follow suit. Unlike the Netherlands, abdication is not a tradition in the British royal family. After the abdication crisis of 1936 it is regarded as the equivalent of a dirty word, a sign of selfishness and a lack of dedication. But the attitude towards the 1936 abdication was based on the circumstances and associated scandal. Would it have been different if Wallis Simpson were not in the picture? Had it been any other monarch, such as Victoria, would she have been as pilloried for stepping down?

Although I'm not as familiar with the Dutch royal family, I do not get the sense that Queen Beatrix is in any way less than dedicated to her role as sovereign. Nor do I get that sense from Wilhelmina and Juliana. Does anyone think less of them for having abdicated or is it simply an acknowledgement of their mortality and a desire to pass the torch while still capable of doing so in a dignified way.

There is not a shred of doubt that the Queen will not abdicate. Dare to mention the idea and people will remind you how she dedicated herself to the service of her people in 1947, quoting her famous speech in the process. Not to mention her Coronation oath in 1953. She took a vow and was sacredly anointed. Although I am on the fence about becoming a republican, I can acknowledge that she is well respected and her dedication is unquestioned. The Queen stepping down will not happen. Period.

That doesn't mean she shouldn't.

Not to diminish those sacred oaths but the Queen is human and mortal. She is not a martyr. After 60 years on the throne, who could blame her for changing her mind in the interim? Would we hold it against her if she did? I know I wouldn't.

The Queen will turn 87 this year and she is, by all appearances, in good health. Her mother lived to 101 and there is no reason the Queen could not reach that age herself. And that would be a wonderful achievement. Not to mention a sigh of relief for people who question Prince Charles' capability to reign. But longevity aside, how effective would she be? Would she be doing the future of the monarchy any favors by continuing to reign despite her age? It may not be questioned now but just watch when she starts to approach 100.

The concept of the Queen abdicating because of her age is not a factor. The idea of her abdicating is muddled by the personalities of those involved. Whether Charles is suitable to become king. Not to mention how Charles should stand aside for William. As if the monarchy is some sort of popularity contest. That is not what this article is about. If the Queen does live as long as her mother, Charles could be in his 80s and Prince William could be in his 60s or 70s when he ascends the throne himself. How frustrating would it be to know that neither will make any meaningful impact as sovereign because they were not given the chance to? In the long run, how does the monarchy stand to benefit from that?

In her speech Queen Beatrix explained her decision to abdicate: "I do not abdicate, therefore, because the task has become an onerous one, but because I am convinced the responsibility for our country should now be placed in the hands of a new generation.

Even Queen Elizabeth would find it hard to ignore the wisdom in that.

© 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.

Queen Beatrix Abdicates and History is Made

Today is a historic day for the monarchy in the Netherlands. Queen Beatrix announced that she would abdicate in favor of her son, Prince Willem-Alexander, on April 30th, a day which is known as Koninginnedag or 'Queen's Day'. The date is significant as the same date Beatrix's own mother, Queen Juliana, abdicated in Beatrix's favor in 1980. Upon her abdication Beatrix's title will revert to Princess Beatrix.

Beatrix's abdication is no surprise. In fact some would say that it was inevitable given the history of abdications in the Dutch monarchy. Beatrix's grandmother, Queen Wilhelmina and mother, Queen Juliana, both abdicated and now Beatrix has followed suit.

The Netherlands have been ruled by women since 1890. When Willem-Alexander becomes king, he will be the first male monarch in 123 years. The previous king, William III, was also named Willem-Alexander. By the new King's side will be his wife, Argentinian born Maxima.



Upon acceding to the throne, his oldest daughter, Princess Catharina-Amalia becomes next in line. This is notable for a few reasons. In doing so she will likely become Princess of Orange in her own right, a title normally reserved for the eldest son of the sovereign. Amalia also becomes the second female heir apparent in the world after her godmother, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden. Born in December 2003 she will be the second youngest heir apparent in the world after Prince Lerotholi Seeiso, born in 2007. She also becomes the youngest heir apparent to a reigning European royal house.

© 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.

A Royal Womb With A View

Is Baby Cambridge a boy?

Is Baby Cambridge a girl?

Will the baby have red hair?

Is he/she alone in there?

If only we could see inside the royal womb and discover these answers ahead of time. Like his/her father, this fetus - no larger than the size of a lime - is not cooperating. Doesn't he/she realize that people expect these answers because it is in the public interest to know?

The interest in the royal baby to be is understandable. But like everything else to do with Baby Cambridge's parents, there is a gross sense of entitlement to know everything, no matter how mundane. Just look at the furore over not knowing the name of the family dog, Lupo. What was the couple hiding? After all, they can't have it both ways, now can they? Catherine finally put reporters out of their misery by revealing the dog's name. How long will the couple be allowed to keep the baby's name to themselves before they're accused of not playing nicely?

Much like the Queen allowing her coronation to be televised, the birth of this baby could set a precedent. The media may have missed the conception but there are other firsts to be had. The first future monarch to have their #royalbirth live tweeted. Imagine if William and Catherine allowed cameras into the delivery room! Royal commentators in hushed tones providing live updates through each contraction. Just picture it.

Commentator: Just how far along is she?

Midwife guest: Well, it's hard to tell how many centimetres dilated she is from our vantage point, but labor seems to be progressing rather slowly. We could be here a while.

Commentator: Is is normal for women to make so much noise during childbirth?

Midwife guest: Yes, some women make more, some less...

Commentator: OK, while we're waiting, do you think Catherine will breastfeed?..

Midwife guest: Well...

Too much information? Or not enough? This is a future monarch we're dealing with. Who draws the line in the sand for Baby Cambridge's privacy?  The media? The parents?

If Baby Cambridge is overdue, the speculation may be one of the reasons why.

© 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 is pregnant! Geneologists, doulas and ravenous media, oh my!

Catherine Cambridge is finally pregnant. For real this time. Is it a boy? Girl? Yes, one of them. Twins? Triplets? Too early to tell. One thing is for certain. It is now open season on Royal Baby Cambridge.

As any expectant parent can attest to, there is no shortage of people willing and eager to offer unsolicited advice. Now magnify this unsolicited advice by a thousand and you have Catherine's pregnancy, where genealogists, authors, astrologers, ravenous media, midwives and doulas will all weigh in at one point or another about every aspect of her pregnancy. It has already started with news of Catherine's hospitalization for hyperemesis gravidarum (aka severe morning sickness). The hospital is reportedly surrounded by the worlds media eager for any scrap of news to report on, regardless of how minor it might be to the rest of the world.

In the months to come we will get medical reports, we will hear about Kate's stylish maternity fashions, the effect of the pregnancy on her physical appearance will be used to predict the sex. Is she carrying high or low? Will she have a home birth? Cesarean? Natural childbirth? Will William be present at the birth or will duty call him away? Will she breastfeed? (Cue the disapproving experts if she doesn't) How will she decorate the nursery? Will she suffer from postnatal depression? Not to mention the speculation about royal baby's future name and title. Mark my words, every angle of this pregnancy will be wrung for all it is worth.

They may not realize it yet but yesterday was the very last day of privacy for Royal baby Cambridge. We can only hope that William and Catherine made the most of it.

© 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 Review: Celebrate by Pippa Middleton

As the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Pippa Middleton is in an unenviable situation. In many ways, she cannot win and it is unfortunate that to some, she will always be known as the only maid of honor to ever wear a flattering dress. Never judged on her own efforts, but on the media and public perception of her. Celebrate: A Year of Festivities for Families and Friends, is her attempt to change that.

Given her low profile prior to the royal wedding, Celebrate could be viewed as a premature effort. However, she's not the first person to jump on the bandwagon of her own notoriety nor will she be the last. To Pippa's credit, she acknowledges this in the introduction to Celebrate. She has the opportunity and she's taking advantage of it. By admitting this she makes it redundant for those who scoff at her efforts. Now who is being unoriginal?

Several reviews for this book have criticized Pippa for stating the obvious: 'ice goes great with drinks', 'a turkey at Christmas time is good for large gatherings'. Yes it's true, but let's be honest, even Martha Stewart falls back on 'Pumpkins add to the festive atmosphere of Halloween', 'Hearts make perfect Valentines' and 'Easter egg hunts are fun'. What Pippa does add to the field is her youth. Like her sister, she makes going the extra mile fashionable. Thus giving twenty-somethings options other than beer, wine, tortilla chips and brie cheese trays for their own parties.

Divided by seasons, Pippa presents crafts, recipes, nostalgic/traditional games and charming tidbits of trivia appropriate to the occasion. She offers small glimpses into how her family marked events like Easter and Mothers Day. While her tips for building bonfires may not apply to most of her readers,  her game instructions are occasionally hard to follow (Conker fights?) and hanging donuts from trees may be an attempt for the brave, her instructions for creating Christmas decorations and place settings using simple items can be for those willing to make the effort. Very reassuring for craft-challenged people like me.

With Celebrate, Pippa Middleton is not reinventing the wheel for entertaining. Instead her book is a fine attempt at reinterpreting it.

© 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.

Prince Charles: Putting nails in the coffin for the future of the monarchy, one letter at a time?

Sometimes I wonder about the future of the monarchy.

With the old guard of dedicated, hardworking royals slowly fading away, they are replaced with a newer generation whose work ethic leaves much to be desired. Prince Charles is rumoured to be in favor of a 'slimmed down' monarchy. The rest of the minor royals/royals by proximity, have to find their own way in life. With the exception of William and Harry, the rest of the Queen's grandchildren, including ones with royal titles (Beatrice and Eugenie) can look forward to an existence unbound by the obligations of duty while maintaining the bragging rights.

But while paring down the monarchy makes sense, the attitudes of the remaining royals leaves the future of the monarchy on shaky ground. What with the foibles and celebrification of Prince Harry and Catherine and more worrying, William's reluctance to take on full-time royal duties because of a deluded desire to be 'normal'. These young royals seem to want to have it both ways - royal trappings without working towards earning them. With Catherine's willingness to abet the media in dumbing her down, when she finally rolls up the crisp white sleeves of her shirt (by Ralph Lauren), she has an uphill battle to be taken seriously. That is, if she ever does.

Yes, let's line up the nails for the coffin.  The young royals will supply the hammer.

When compared to the dedication of the Queen, her dignity, her ability to remain impartial, the rest of the royals look diminished in comparison. The Queen will always be a tough act to follow, but not an impossible one. Just look at Queen Victoria and her heir, King Edward VII. Unlike the present Queen, Victoria did not have a reputation for remaining impartial, but her sheer longevity earns her respect. For all of his accomplishments as a 'Peace-maker', King Edward VII's reputation as a bon vivant and arbiter of fashion take precedence. In that respect, Charles shares something in common with his great-great grandfather. Any good deeds he does are overshadowed by his personal life. Unfortunately, the same can be said for the present young royals. The Queen is indeed, the last of her kind.

Prince Charles is in a unique position to help.  And he should be lauded for the work that he has done. He walks his talk. But while he has the freedom to do this while Prince of Wales, it will be different once/if he becomes king. Like his mother, he will be expected to remain impartial and above politics. So far the signs are not good. Prince Charles does not have a reputation for being impartial nor does he cultivate one. Looking at the controversy surrounding letters he has written to politicians and the antics of the younger royals, it raises questions about the future of the monarchy. Questions we won't know the answer to until Charles becomes king. If he becomes king.

Yes, it really does make me wonder. 

© 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 Review: Dress Up Kate

Since Kate's engagement announcement dozens of websites and blogs have have popped up ready to dissect every detail about her fashion choices. Frustratingly, your only option was to pass judgement in the various comments sections. Until now. Finally a sticker book has come along called  Dress Up Kate, allowing you to take matters into your own hands and play stylist to Kate. 

Poker faced minion

From her wedding day, to her honeymoon, royal engagements, Jubilee parties and red-carpet events you can choose from a variety of sedate outfits and accessories to match the occasion or throw caution to the wind. Corgi bedroom slippers to Garden parties? Wedding dress to a Lifeboat launch? Use your imagination!

Is that a telephoto lens
in the distance?

Replete with poker faced minions who appear to view Kate's state of undress as a matter of course, the only thing missing from these stickers are the paparazzi and chastened magazine editors. Although in light of recent news, Catherine may appear *ahem* a tad overdressed for the 'Home Alone' pages, no?

Look but don't play with it. One day
 this will be a collectors item.

Certain to appeal to all age groups, including my eight year old daughter, who would have had far more fun had I let her play with the stickers. With Dress Up Kate, 'Copy-Kate's' no longer have an excuse to continue venting their frustrations about her fashion choices. With 350 stickers, you can indulge your fashion fantasies to your heart's content. Don't like her shoes? Choose new ones! Floral bouquet clashes with the Queen's hat? Change it! The choice is now yours.

© 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.

Who is ultimately to blame for the Catherine Cambridge topless photos? We are

For the last few days I've read plenty of articles deploring the coverage of Catherine Cambridge's topless photos. Some vehemently blame the photographer and the publication, others blame Catherine for daring to sunbathe topless. I have yet to see an article blaming us too.

Now a lawsuit from William and Catherine for invasion of privacy because they feel that they had a 'reasonable expectation of privacy'.  Yes, they do have an expectation of privacy. They deserve it. But it's unfortunate that with the level of media interest in Kate and the fact that there are cameras everywhere, that expectation has become naive at best. 

Should she have kept her top on? Yes. If you're in a sanctimonious mood, you could say she she is a future queen and it's undignified. Point taken. Catherine does not lead the life she did before and she's fooling herself to think otherwise. Neither William nor Catherine can afford to become complacent. Given that any vacation they've taken, including their honeymoon, has been invaded by a photographer's lens, they should know better. It was inevitable that this vacation would be too. But the photographs from the other vacations seem to be OK. Justified in some way because they were in public, because what they do is of interest. Yet, these same arguments do not apply to this instance. Why? Because Catherine is topless.  If she wasn't topless, there would be no uproar. In fact, we'd probably be discussing designer of the bathing suit she was wearing and where we can buy it. Then it would be OK. Even though it is the same location, same photographer and same camera lens used.

I don't condone the topless photos. I don't condone any photos of Catherine taken outside of her royal duties. Why? Because if she deserves privacy sunbathing topless, she should also deserve it when she walks her dog, strolls on the beach, gets her hair done or shops for groceries. Justify those instances and we have created a slippery slope that leads to these photos.

This situation has been compared to the harassment Diana endured until her death. Why? Because those of us around at the time wanted more. Even going on a private vacation didn't deter photographers. Did she deserve privacy? Yes, she was no longer royal. Cut free from the expectations of royal duty, she no longer owed us anything. But we still wanted it, in one form or another until the we strangled the golden goose with our insatiable interest. Blame the drunk driver, but who was he trying to escape from? Our desire for Diana's image. 15 years later, the only thing that has changed is the subject.

The interest in Catherine is understandable, but it has consequences. The photographer would not have taken those photos, the publications would not buy or publish them if there wasn't interest. Make a story out of what she buys for dinner or a scar on her head, or the shoes she wears and it creates an insatiable appetite for more. Who wants more? We do.

Continue to blame the photographer, the publication and Catherine. We deserve some of the blame 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 Cambridge shouldn't be shocked, she should be resigned

Oh dear!

Topless photos of Kate Middleton/Catherine Cambridge have been published!

Shock, horror and the royal couple are 'saddened and disappointed'.

Seriously, I'm starting to get tired of the complaining.

I didn't always think this way. I used to get just as incensed as the next person about the prying eyes of the paparazzi. Now I'm no longer surprised. And in all honesty, Kate shouldn't be surprised either.

Much like putting up with  being called Kate Middleton for the rest of her life, photos taken in private moments seem to be inevitable. Honeymoon, holidays, walking on the beach, it's all fodder for what she does and what she wears. She signed up for a life of being in the public eye. She just saw what happened to Prince Harry and his photos. Regardless of whether it invaded his privacy, the nude photos became a story for a few days until Harry magically became a hero by stepping on a plane to Afghanistan. Catherine take note.

Catherine is holding her head high and putting on her brave face. What choice does she have? Shying away doesn't change anything.  She may even get an award for it. Since her marriage, people are  interested in every single aspect of her life. From her pantyhose, to her hair, to the groceries she buys, to drinking water instead of wine, to her shoes, to a scar on her head. No detail is too minute to feed an insatiable appetite. Would media outlets really publish these photos if there wasn't some sort of demand for them?

It's very clear that the media has learnt absolutely nothing from what happened to Diana. Nothing has changed and with cameras at every turn, it's only going to get worse. Catherine would be naive to think otherwise.

© 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.

Thank God for naked princes in Las Vegas!

Finally, something to discuss other than the Duchess of Cambridge's clothes and the Duke of Edinburgh's death watch! This is quite possibly the biggest story to hit royal watchers since Catherine reignited the debate on pantyhose vs no pantyhose.

A naked prince allows us to focus on what really matters in the world of royalty. Upon seeing photographs of said naked prince (see explanation below), you've probably had one of six possible reactions.

1) You've sighed dramatically and fallen into a dead-faint. Currently waiting for someone to revive you with smelling salts.

2) You've indulged in sanctimonious preaching and proclaimed yourself an armchair arbiter of royal behavior.

3) Dying of curiosity, you've openly wished Harry had removed his hand.

4) Dying of curiosity, you've secretly wished Harry had removed his hand.

5) You've spent the last few days composing a blog post before the story inevitably dies out.

6) You don`t care or understand what all of the fuss is about.

Whichever reaction you`ve experienced, I applaud you for reading this jump on the bandwagon blog post.

Yes, Prince Harry was photographed. In  Las Vegas, naked, playing strip billiards, in the privacy of his hotel suite. Now that these photographs have come to light, Harry is supposedly 'no longer a role model', he has behaved in a 'disgraceful manner', he has 'brought disrepute on the British royal family' and 'someone needs to drum some sense into him before it's too late'. What a shame, if only Harry had known he had to set an example in the privacy of his hotel room. The family firm isn't supposed to take a day off, is it?

The fact that Prince Harry parties is nothing new. Young, virile and single, we expect it of him. Why are people suddenly appalled and offended now that there's photographic proof of it?  Should Harry have known better than to invite strangers into his private suite? Let that be a lesson to you Harry. In the future, choose your naked friends more carefully.

Unfortunately for Harry, he is a senior royal by accident of birth rather than choice. Along with his brother and sister-in-law, he is expected to shore up the Firm and carry the royal flag forward. It's a losing battle. Unlike in previous generations when royalty set the tone for society, deference is dead and gone. The Queen, her husband and first cousins are a dying breed and times have changed. Holding Harry to the same standards of royal behavior is unrealistic. For Harry, and for people who continue to expect it from any member of the new royal generation.

For now Harry would be wise to keep his head down and his pants on. Oh, and while at it, learn how to play billiards for next time.

The public is watching and waiting.

 © 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 Review: The Regal Rules for Girls by Jerramy Fine

The Regal Rules for Girls by Jerramy Fine
320 Pages
Published August 2012
ISBN: 978-0425247648

While reading The Regal Rules for Girls, I found myself incredibly impressed with the wealth of information within its pages. I couldn't help but wonder - what isn't The Regal Rules for Girls? Is it a self-help book? Etiquette guide? Career counselling? Educational brochure? Travel guide? Dating advice from a wise friend? Party planning guide?

In a brief, it is a manual for any American girl who has ever dreamed of moving to the United Kingdom in search of her prince.

Basing Regal Rules for Girls on her own experience,which she wrote about in her wonderfully entertaining memoir Someday My Prince Will Come, Jerramy offers a guide for other plucky American women to pursue their own prince charming. However, unlike other self-help books filled with inspirational platitudes, this one offers a pragmatic and calculated approach towards achieving happily ever after. Call it a reality check for would be Cinderellas. If you want the glass slipper, you're going to have to work for it.

Forget dreaming about your prince, you'll have to single-mindedly hunt him down in his natural environment.  Jerramy offers tips on how to spot your prey based on physical characteristics and educational background, and recommends the best 'Regal Hunting Grounds' (Polo matches, sailing, skiing in the Alps) with accompanying websites. Should the need arise, essential survival skills are provided: the full lyrics to God Save the Queen, classic martini recipe, diagram for how to properly tie a bow tie, sailing lingo to impress your nautical suitor, and a pronunciation guide so you don't unwittingly become a social pariah when you just want to relax on the couch sofa.

All sorts of unromantic territory is covered: government visas, finding an apartment flat-share, gaining employment, finding proper dental care, and the best place to purchase American food staples. Buying the plane ticket is the easy part. If navigating the unspoken minefield of British social intricacies doesn't dissuade you, nothing else will.

Following these rules to the letter you will have no excuse for not being successful in your pursuit. The Regal Rules for Girls offers all of the tips you'll need to get there. Happily ever after is now up to 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.

Royal Book Challenge: Happy and Glorious! by Marion Crawford

28/500
Happy and glorious! by Marion Crawford
Published 1953
93 Pages
ASIN: B001GF6UM0

Nowadays, it is very rare for me to walk into a used bookstore and find a book about the royal family that I do not already own. So when I came upon Happy and Glorious! I was delighted. Having enjoyed Marion Crawford's previous publication The Little Princesses, I was thoroughly looking forward to reading this as well.

Marion Crawford was the Queen and Princess Margaret's governess for seventeen years. When she wrote The Little Princesses, the royal family saw this, understandably, as a betrayal. Having become a pariah, Crawford had nothing to lose by milking her royal connection. Not that she offers any dirty secrets. The appeal of Happy and Glorious! is that it is written by someone who holds affection for the Queen, offering a true insight into the character in a respectful, informative and insightful way.

© 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: Princess by Robert Lacey

27/500
Princess by Robert Lacey
Published 1982
128 Pages
ISBN: 978-0812963298

 Princess by Robert Lacey covers the period from Diana's engagement to the early months of her pregnancy with Prince William. Much like other books, it contains typical photographs of Diana at her loveliest, showing her burgeoning sense of style. The photographs offer few hints of the glamorous princess she would become. Nor do they offer any clues to the marital and personal troubles behind the smiles.

Many comparisons have been made between Catherine and Diana in terms of how they have adapted to royal life. The text offers some striking similarities between the two women. Notably Mr Lacey questions the adulation heaped upon Diana for doing nothing more than marrying into the royal family. By that point she had said and done very little of substance to warrant it. One passage about Diana is just applicable to Kate 30 years later.

'Our admiration, of course, derives from other things: her freshness, her royal status, the yet more royal status awaiting her in the future, her youth, her beauty - and her dress sense. She looks like a princess, groomed, elegant and clad in garments which are familiar to any woman but which, somehow have been dusted with an extra glamour..'

Mr Lacey offers a nice portrait of a princess on the verge of something greater. Given all of the troubles that would occur later, it's nice to read about a more innocent, younger Diana, with a glittering future in front of 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: Rose: My Life in Service to Lady Astor by Rosina Harrison

26/500

Rose: My Life in Service to Lady Astor by Rosina Harrison
Originally published in 1975
368 Pages
ISBN: 9780143120865

Capitalizing on the success of the television series Downton Abbey, publishers are rushing to release books about the lives of servants in Edwardian times. Rose: My Life in Service to Lady Astor by Rosina Harrison, is one of them. 

Rosina (Rose) Harrison was born in Yorkshire with a desire to see the world. Destined to a life of service, she became a lady's maid, joining the service of Lady Astor in 1925.There she would remain for the next 35 years, until her ladyship's death. 

Lady Astor was one of the most interesting women of her time, being the first woman to take a seat as a Member of Parliament. This book does not give an idea of just how remarkable Lady Astor was because that side of her is barely depicted. Instead Rose focuses on her experience as Lady Astor's dresser for some of these important events. Though Rose obviously holds affection for her, Lady Astor could be a demanding and mercurial employer.

While it's interesting to read, at first, there's a repetitiveness to this memoir. Rose travelled all over the world with Lady Astor, resulting in endless rounds of packing and unpacking. Rose experiences stresses with Lady Astor's jewels and grumbles about travelling about too many of Lady Astor's hats. She does not glamorize her work but it is difficult to gain any insight into the experiences of a true Edwardian servant, who were not nearly as fortunate in the positions they held.

Other than Rose being on the receiving end of 'Shut up, Rose' from Lady Astor on more than one occasion, there's little conflict between the two. The description reads that Lady Astor has 'met her match', but any battle of the wills is anticlimactic at best.

Although Rose does not come across as a prude,  towards the end she opines on religion, raising children, alcohol and the excesses of wealth, offering nothing controversial or juicy in the process. If you want to get an idea of the experience of a servant who travelled the world first class, packing and unpacking clothing, with a wry observation thrown in for good measure, then this book is 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.

Royal Book Challenge: Elizabeth: Reigning in Style by Jane Eastoe

25/500
Elizabeth: Reigning in Style by Jane Eastoe
Published 2012
112 Pages
ISBN: 978-1862059481

As mentioned in a previous post about Robert Lacey's new book, A Queen a Life in Brief, I am concerned that there will be nothing new to add about the Queen's life once she heads to that great, palace in the sky.

In this respect, Elizabeth: Reigning in Style stands out. While she was beautiful  and stylish when younger, referring to the Queen has a fashion icon stretches it - in my opinion. If anything, the author at least offers a (somewhat) new perspective on her life. We may not know her true opinion on politics or anything else for that matter, but at least we now know who designed her clothing and footwear and who is responsible for some of the atrocious hats she has worn throughout her life.

© 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 Queen: A Life in Brief by Robert Lacey

24/500
The Queen: A Life in Brief by Robert Lacey
Published 2012
166 Pages
ISBN: 9780062124463

In the introduction, noted author  Robert Lacey writes, 'this little book is intended to distill and reshape what I've learned into one pleasant afternoon's reading.'

And so it does. Even if it took me more than an afternoon to read it.

Despite being written by the well respected and noted royal historian Robert Lacey, I was skeptical. Could a book about the Queen, the second longest serving monarch in British history, ever be brief yet do justice to her at the same time? With book-a-zines, documentaries and a dozen or more new books attempting to offer fresh perspectives on Queen Elizabeth's life and reign, The Queen: A Life in Brief, is just another book amongst them.

So far, none have offered any new insights or revelations that haven't already been published before. This book breaks no ground in this respect either. It just offers the Queen's life story in a more condensed fashion. Which is very appealing considering the weighty, repetitive books competing with it.

The amount of releases marking her Diamond Jubilee makes me wonder whether there will be anything new left to say when she dies. Other than updating these publications with the date of her death, my prediction is that there won't.

© 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: Marrying Up by Wendy Holden

23/500

Marrying Up by Wendy Holden
Published 2012
384 Pages
ISBN: 0755342631

Marrying Up revolves around the destinies of three women, Polly, an archaeologist, the beautiful but clueless Lady Florence (Florrie) Trevorigus-Whyske-Cleethorpe and Allison Donald, who will do anything to become rich, famous and marry well. Including changing everything from her name to her appearance.

Allison Donald, who changes her name to Alexa MacDonald, will do anything to marry well. Love is a secondary consideration to titles and money. Accompanied by her equally ambitious and irrepressible sidekick, Barney van Hoosier, from auctions to funerals, no opportunity to find a titled and wealthy husband is passed up. Her scheming becomes so pathetic, it's a cautionary tale in the making.

Polly is the opposite, an accomplished archaeologist with a broken heart, marrying well is not on her radar when she falls in love with Max, a veterinarian and unbeknownst to her, Crown Prince of Sedona. A reluctant royal, Max must leave Polly behind in England, and return to Sedona to marry and secure the royal line. Unaware of his destiny, Polly finds out he's a prince and goes to find him, for entirely different reasons than Alexa.

Lady Florrie is a clueless yet stunningly beautiful aristocrat whirling from one party to another, her ambitious mother Lady Annabel schemes to have her daughter marry into the royal family. Polly, Alexa and Lady Florrie, eventually end up in Sedona, two as potential brides for Prince Max.

Marrying Up has several unexpected plot turns. At times in it's a bit heavy handed with the royal title satire: Ancient Order of the Norwegian Reindeer Smokers, Royal Swedish Order of the Golden Cod, (OK I get it, the titles are ridiculous) it is otherwise a fun read.

© 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.

30 Facts about Prince William, Duke of Cambridge

In honor of Prince William's 30th birthday on June 21st, here are 30 facts about him.

1) Prince William was born on June 21st, 1982 at 9:03 PM at St. Mary's Hospital Paddington. He weighed 7lbs 1 1/2 oz.

2) Prince William is the first direct heir to the throne to be born in hospital

3) He was christened William Arthur Philip Louis on August 4, 1982, his great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother's 82nd birthday.

4) According to genealogists, William was born the most British heir to the throne since King James I.

5) He was nine months old when he accompanied his parents on their tour of Australia and New Zealand in 1983, becoming the first royal baby to be included on an official visit.

6) Prince William was the first royal prince to attend an ordinary nursery school, rather than be educated at home.

7) During his childhood he was affectionately known as 'Wombat'

8) Just before his fourth birthday, he was made the six-millionth member of the Automobile Association and given an AA lifetime membership.

9) He started learning to ride a horse at the age of four.

10) On June 3, 1991 he was accidentally hit on the head with a golf club. To this day he retains a mark on his forehead, which he has referred to as his 'Harry Potter scar'.

11) He carried out his first official public engagement on March 1, 1991 when he accompanied his parent on a visit to Wales to celebrate St David's Day.

12) The 1997 Christie's auction of his mother's dresses was his idea.

13) He was confirmed on March 9, 1997 at St George's Chapel, Windsor

14) He passed his driving test on July 27th, 1999, just five weeks after his seventeenth birthday.

15) In 2000, on his 18th birthday, he was granted his own Coat of Arms. The design includes elements from the Spencer Coat of Arms from his mother's side of the family.

16) William has stated that his favorite part of his gap year was year was spent working as a farm labourer on a dairy farm in England with an hourly wage of £3.20, rising before dawn to milk cows and “performing mucky jobs” along with everyone else.

17) In 2003 he celebrated his 21st birthday with an African themed party hosted by the Queen at Windsor Castle.

18) He is godfather to Prince Konstantine Alexios of Greece, the son of the Greek Crown Prince and Princess Pavlos. Prince William's own godfather is the former King Constantine II of Greece, Prince Konstantine's grandfather.

19) Owned a black Labrador named Widgeon.

20)  He met his future wife, Catherine Middleton, while they were both students at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

21) On June 23rd, 2005, William graduated from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland with a 2:1 Master of Arts in Geography.

22) He has a rose named after him - Royal William

23) He is left-handed

24) He entered Royal Sandhurst Military Academy in 2006 as an officer cadet. He was commissioned as an army officer in December 2006 and joined the Household Cavalry (Blues and Royals) as a Second Lieutenant in January 2006.

25) On 11th April 2008, Prince William received his RAF wings from his father The Prince of Wales, becoming the fourth successive generation of the monarchy to become an RAF pilot.

26) As a child William was given a specially modified, electrically powered, bright red Jaguar XJS Cabriolet miniature sports car. A gift from the manufacturers.

27) He was appointed a Royal Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter on April 23rd, 2008. He is the 1000th knight in the register. 

28) He is a keen sportsman and has participated in many sporting activities: swimming, water polo, skiing,  rugby, polo, football, basketball, cross country running and clay pigeon shooting.

29) On the day of his wedding, April 29, 2011, the Queen granted William the titles Duke of Cambridge, The Earl of Strathearn and The Baron of Carrickfergus.

30) On 29th May 2012, The Duke of Cambridge was conferred to the Order of the Thistle in the year of The Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

© 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 Review: The Great Survivors by Peter Conradi

The Great Survivors: How Monarchy Made It into the Twenty-First Century by Peter Conradi
Published 2012
384 Pages
ISBN: 978-1846882159

In 1948, King Farouk of Egypt is reportedly quoted as stating: 

"The whole world is in revolt. Soon there will be only five Kings left--the King of England, the King of Spades, The King of Clubs, the King of Hearts, and the King of Diamonds."

He was incorrect. While the House of Windsor is, by far, the most media prominent, it isn't even remotely the only one left. Excluding their Asian, African and Middle Eastern counterparts, six other European countries are monarchies: Belgium, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and the Netherlands. Not to mention the royal rulers in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and principalities of Monaco and Liechtenstein. These are The Great Survivors. How they survived when other royal houses tumbled and continue to endure in the twenty-first century is something Peter Conradi (co-author of The King's Speech) tackles in his new book.

The author compares and contrasts the royal houses, covering territory on how they're funded, their controversies and scandals, succession, political power, and grudging love-hate relationship with the media. Clearly, there's more to the relationship between many of these royal houses than their link to Queen Victoria. But researching this information in any depth would require consulting several sources. Now it can be found in one.  For someone like myself, with a passing interest in these monarchies but lacking the energy to delve into individual details, this book is a valuable and fascinating resource. A must have for any royal book collection.

© 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.

Video: The Firm: The Fairy Story of the English Royal Family and Princess Diana

A new take on the story of Diana and the royal family





© 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.

Mmmmmm....Cupcake Queen

What recipe calls for over 50kg of Regal-Ice, 50kg of Royal Icing, 20kg of Marzipan and over 40 tubes of Gel Food Colours? …what else? A  celebration cake fit for a Queen!

To celebrate the Queen's 60 years on the throne, Dr. Oetker teamed up with food artist extraordinaire, Prudence Staite, to recreate a 6m² ‘Cupcake Queen’ portrait of Her Majesty with over 2,012 hand-decorated cupcakes.

The edible artwork used ten cans of Gold and Silver Shimmer Spray, 60,000 Silver and Gold Soft Sugar Pearls and over 140 white Wafer Daisies from the Dr. Oetker baking range to adorn the King George IV State Diadem featured in the original iconic image taken by Dorothy Wilding in 1952.

The ‘Cupcake Queen’ was built in Prudence’ studio in Pamington, Gloucestershire and also featured 20kg of Plain and Milk Chocolate Chips and 30kg of Easy Swirl Cupcake Icing, which were used to define the Queen’s face.

Delicious!


Here's a time lapse video of the making of the Cupcake Queen.



Thanks to Yasir Alani for the heads up!

© 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.

Video: Scenes from London April 28th & 29th 2011

In honor of William and Catherine's first wedding anniversary, some video I shot while I was in London for the event!

© 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.

Can Catherine Cambridge walk on water?

Looking at the saccharine media coverage about Catherine and you would definitely think so. But the comment section in articles and on royal message boards belies that view. Even if people choose to dismiss and ignore it.

Regardless of their personal viewpoint, William and Catherine are the fairytale couple. Perfection, beauty and happiness personified. Catherine by her sheer newness, ability to dress well and look attentive around small children, has reportedly won every heart that has ever come into contact with her. Not to mention sympathy for the incessant comparison to a dead iconic mother-in-law. She is also on par with the Queen in immunity from criticism. Compare her to Princess Anne or Mother Theresa and Catherine will win hands down. Not because of what she has or hasn't done but because she is better looking.

We have been repeatedly reminded that Catherine has not 'put a foot wrong'. It's difficult to do when little has been expected of her. Easing her into her royal position has been an agonizing process for people who would like to see her do something other than smile and sell clothes; no matter how good it may be for British industry. She is capable of more than that. After a year, she has reportedly graduated to a fully-fledged royal. Here's hoping Royal Year-Two brings a more realistic viewpoint of her skills and dedication. For her sake as well as ours.

© 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 Royals by Leslie Carroll

22/500

The Royals the Lives and Loves of the British Monarchs by Leslie Carroll
Published 2011
175 Pages
ISBN: 9781435136205

I found out about The Royals via @onechicgeek on twitter. I was intrigued, mainly because it features 'rare memorabilia'. At the time I bought it, it was exclusively available through Barnes and Noble. Now it has finally come to Amazon!

The Royals is entertaining and the memorabilia is interesting, though the handwriting is impossible to read. Namely Princess Elizabeth (Future Queen Elizabeth I) letter to her half-sister Queen Mary begging her for an audience. Luckily the author gives transcriptions of these documents, otherwise you'd miss out on the point of them.

Reproductions of memorabilia include the execution warrant for Mary, Queen of Scots, William and Catherine's wedding invitation, the Instrument of Abdication, a ticket to Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee ball, as well as a 1901 funeral card for her. Also included is a reproduction of Charles and Diana's Official 1981 Wedding Programme, which, when compared to the original, is nicely done.

My main problem with this book is that there is some gossipy information that seems to be stated as fact: The Queen and Princess Margaret were conceived by artificial insemination. Prince Philip had numerous affairs. Yes, there are rumors about these things, but neither have been proven. So why perpetuate them? I'm not familiar with royal history beyond Queen Victoria, so I can't judge whether there are any other factual errors. Though one review seems to think there are several in the Tudors section of the book.

Were it not for the memorabilia inserts I probably would not have bought The Royals. In all honesty, while this book is a fun read, it would be unremarkable without them.

© 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: A Hundred Years of Royal Style by Colin McDowell

21/500

A Hundred Years of Royal Style by Colin McDowell
192 Pages
Published 1985
ISBN: 0584110715

I learnt about this book via the @royaltybookfan twitter-feed. It's a fantastic feed to find out about more obscure publications in ebook format. My ereader is seriously close to smoking from the amount I've downloaded since I started following.

Books relating to royal style tend to focus on Diana. As if there were no other trend setters prior to her existence. A Hundred Years of Royal Style is different in that it covers fashions of royal ladies, even those, such as Queen Mary or Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who would not be considered particularly stylish to begin with.

The author discusses the role of royal clothing as well as how, in absence of any real royal news, it has been portrayed in the media. A focus on Queen Alexandra, consort of King Edward VII, reveals a woman who enjoyed clothing and took enjoyment in developing her own look.  In comparison to many of the other royal ladies, like the Queen who, despite having the resources to have fun with fashion, view clothing from nothing more than a practical standpoint.

The book includes interesting details about clothes as well as sketches of outfits for the Queen and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. There's an interesting breakdown of royal warrant-holders for Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother and the present Queen from 1901 to 1984. If you need to know who supplied Queen Alexandra with perfume in 1914, then this book is definately the one 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.