Is Duchess Kate spending her 32nd b-day in London with her mom & no Will?

FFN_Middleton_Kate_FFUK_112013_51267493

Prince William checked into Cambridge for his first day of “school” on Tuesday. Apparently, he arrived on campus in the morning, and he went back to London in evening. But there are still arrangements for William to have an apartment (either on campus or campus-adjacent, the details are sketchy), so I’m thinking he probably won’t make it back to London even half the time he’s doing this bespoke course. When we were discussing it on Tuesday, I asked what you guys thought Duchess Kate would do in William’s absence. Would “looking after Prince George” be sufficient, would Kate take the baby and go home to her mom’s house? Would Kate be allowed to briefly outshine William and take on more solo charity work? The answer so far is “none of the above.” While William’s away, the girl’s just shopping.

As William began his Cambridge course in agriculture Tuesday, his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, headed out for some retail therapy – just in time for her birthday.

Dressed in a baby blue coat, Kate, who will turn 32 on Thursday, checked out the home furnishings and picked up some supplies at one of her favorite department stores, Peter Jones, in London’s Sloane Square. Also spotted in the store: her mother, Carole Middleton, 58.

Fellow shopper Louisa Smith saw Kate in the cashier section, and noted that there was very little fuss about the VIP.

“You wouldn’t have known it was Kate Middleton,” Smith, an independent distributor for a health and wellness products firm, told PEOPLE. “The shop is always quite calm anyway, and there wasn’t a great deal of people around.”

In fact, said Smith, “It was only when I did a double-take that I realized it was her.”

Once the recognition factor kicked in, Smith was very impressed: “She was absolutely beautiful. She has a very magnetic energy about her. She looked absolutely stunning.”

Besides, said the shopper, “It was nice to see her doing ordinary stuff!”

As for her birthday, it doesn’t look as if Kate will be able to spend much of it with William, given that he is commuting 60 miles north to Cambridge from their home for the day. (As royal insiders point out, it’s a bit early in the term for him to start cutting classes.)

Still, if his first day back to school was any indication, the two should be together again by evening.

[From People]

Of course there are no photos. I’ve actually heard (and someone confirm this if it’s true) that the UK papers are banned from publishing even Twitter and Instagram photos of Kate and William when they’re out and about. Like, no newspaper can publish the photos that commoners publish on their social media accounts. Because it’s high treason, apparently, to see the future queen elbow-deep in the discount rack?

Anyway, chica loves to shop. And why not? Charles is paying her bills and William would rather spend her 32nd birthday (today!) with nubile coeds. I’m not even joking – it’s being widely reported that William is staying at Cambridge today while Kate celebrates her birthday “privately” with her mom at Kensington Palace. So…shop away, duchess. Shop away. And happy birthday, chica.

FFN_Will_Kate_FFUK_111913_51266487

wenn20834886

Photos courtesy of WENN, Fame/Flynet.

You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.

166 Responses to “Is Duchess Kate spending her 32nd b-day in London with her mom & no Will?”

Comments are Closed

We close comments on older posts to fight comment spam.

  1. SoCal says:

    I can’t stand Capricorns lol.

    I hate when they call just shopping “retail therapy.” As if you are shopping to relieve stress or something. Would it be “retail therapy” to buy ingredients for lasagna at the grocery store?

    • Jamie says:

      Ha.

    • V4Real says:

      “I hate when they call just shopping “retail therapy.”

      Well I wish my psychiatrist would prescribe some retail therapy for me and it’s covered under my insurance.

    • heidi says:

      then you can’t stand 1/12th of the population

      • BendyWindy says:

        That’s better than me. I can’t stand 1/6th of the population (Cancers and Taurus). I’m an Aries. 😀

    • ?? says:

      Funny how outdated “astrology” makes some people feel.

      • Jackie Jormp Jomp (formerly Zelda) says:

        Later in this thread, someone mentions that they think that British women make themselves look older than they are. People freak the f*ck out.
        But saying you hate 1/12 of the population because stars is apparently a-ok.

      • We Are All Made of Stars says:

        Okay, so no sense of humor whatsoever then?

  2. LadyMTL says:

    As useless as she seems to be, I can’t shade her today. I always go shopping on my birthday too, it’s my yearly gift to myself.

  3. Ice Maiden says:

    ”the UK papers are banned from publishing even Twitter and Instagram photos of Kate and William when they’re out and about.”

    I highly doubt this is true. One UK tabloid even published the naked Harry pics from Las Vegas, even though there was a delay of several days (everyone had already seen them on the net) and there was a bit of tut-tutting about it. But I don’t see how UK papers could be banned from publishing photos of adults – no matter how ‘royal’ – when they are in a public space.

    • Thinker says:

      The press ban only protects the HEIR, not the Spare. In fact, Harry is often thrown to the wolves to protect Will & Kate’s pitiful image.

      • Ice Maiden says:

        But is it a ban in the legal sense? I suspect it’s more of an informal agreement among the press following Diana’s death. I just don’t see how it could be legal to ban photographs of some people, but not others, just because of who they are.

      • LadySlippers says:

        The ‘ban’ is more a gentleman’s agreement that has been in place for decades, if not longer. It was in place for David’s many scandals (while Prince of Wales and while King) and it was understood even then (hence my reasoning). It is designed to keep the ‘wholesome’ image of the BRF going.

        William has really made it clear through legal means that the agreement needs to hold up even in the face of tabloid journalism. However, Kate has been papped out shopping before so not sure why they are being so funky. Unless William roared again behind the scenes and we don’t know about it.

        ETA: William reinforcing the ‘agreement’ is speculation on my part but it is inline with past behaviour. Perhaps he did it post-George so Kate could have some space. Again, just guessing on my part.

      • Gee says:

        @LadySlippers – Kate has been papped shopping before but I believe it was by the “Middleton photographer” Niraj Tanna (or something like that). I’ve noticed he is the only one that gets exclusive pap pics. Those that aren’t taken by him cause quite a row and are the only ones the Mids/Will happen to dispute.

      • Snarkweek says:

        True but dont forget that Kate sued the paps in her own right for invasion and won 10,000 pounds. The press is still treading lightly with her.

    • LAK says:

      Ice Maiden, there is a ban. It may not be a formalised ban, but it is there. There is no such protection for Harry.

      The royal reporters are repeatedly asked about this on twitter and they always come back with the same answer which is that HM, Philip, Charles and William [and by extension their wives] are no go areas for UK press.

      Further, the special treatment of the heir vs the spare[s] goes back decades, if not centuries. In the modern era, you can see it in action in the reporting on David vs Bertie [which switched once Bertie became King], HM vs Margaret, Charles vs Andrew and William vs Harry. The effect is such that no matter how bad the heir is perceived to be, the public remains relieved that they don’t have the ‘much worse’ spare to contend with. This is extended to their respective spouses or GFs. In recent times Diana vs Fergie or Kate vs Chelsy.

      Finally, what Gee said.

      • Kate says:

        Does this mean when Harry marries; if his wife works, does charity events, never takes a wrong step; the press will still make her out to be the next Sarah Ferguson?

      • bluhare says:

        What’s funny is despite (or because of) his scampy rascalness, Harry comes across so much better than William.

        And I would be willing to bet there’s a photo of Harry on the toilet at the South Pole as well as Skarsgard!! Too bad we won’t see it. 🙂

      • LAK says:

        Kate: Yes. However Harry’s wife turns out to be, she will be portrayed as lacking in comparison to Kate.

        Bluhare: i thought that photo of Skarsgard was photoshopped. Isn’t it too cold to be *that* undressed on the pole? Kudos if he managed to remove his clothing, pose for the camera for however long it took to take the shot.

      • bluhare says:

        LAK, I would have thought it would be too cold too. Maybe it was photoshopped, although he’s been naked in the snow before . . . .

        But, ahem, things would be a bit . . . hidden, wouldn’t they?

      • HH says:

        This is why it would be interesting for Harry to marry another aristocrat. The treatment of the press would be very interesting as I believe they would be giddy at the thought of a “blue-blooded” union. It would be hard for them to choose Kate over a true, English rose (in their eyes).

      • Florc says:

        Regarding going to the bathroom near the pole.
        There’s Top Gear episode where the guys drive to the North pole. Jeremy is sing the toilet seat he installed on the rear bumber. His pants are clearly down and he does comment how cold he is. Not to cold to go though.

        And that’s such BS about the heir, spare, and spouses. Truly, what good is the press in this world if it’s only a tool to control perceptions, but that’s a rant for another time.

        HH
        I see where you’re going here. You made me go.. “Hmmm..”

  4. melmel says:

    Usually popsugar has pictures. MAybe they are on that sight.
    Why can`t someone ever be quote in saying, up close, Kate likes old. In pictures she does….

    • Mel says:

      Too funny! I just posted a comment about that below.

    • Thinker says:

      Because the shopgirls want her to keep coming back to Peter Jones, and keep spending that Prince Charles money there. Plus: good publicity.

    • T.C. says:

      They always photoshop even pap pictures of her. Without photoshop she looks old and not as attractive.

      I don’t think she cares if Wills makes it back. She has the charge card and her mother with her. That is all Waity needs to make her happy.

  5. Christin says:

    Birthdays are special, but she’s 32, not a kid. Plus, it’s not like they don’t have the time or resources to celebrate today or any other time.

    I wish to close with a carryover request from an earlier post about Will’s little college expedition. Will Ferrell, please make this into a comedy movie!

  6. Mel says:

    Do you think the “commoners” that see her shopping out and about are obligated to say how amazing and beautiful she is? I don’t think I’ve ever read a report of someone whose seen her at the store looking like crap or even looking tired. Everything I’ve read has people praising her on her looks and attitude.

    • Zimmer says:

      Good point.

    • Florc says:

      Mel
      If they snap cell photos of her it’s quickly. Her bodyguards do not put up with it if you’re close enough to them and they see you.
      Te press won’t publish negatives because that’s bad for them. I can only say a friend of mine stood in line ages ago to see her. She snapped a pic and it was all opposite of printed photos.

    • Snarkweek says:

      No I do not think that people feel obligated to praise Kate or put her down. I think people are pretty honest. However, the people who have negative things to say will never have their comments printed. That is the big difference here.

    • Penny says:

      Something about ‘important’ people makes others like to employ a bit of hyperbole I think. It’s not enough to just meet the person and have it be a perfectly average experience, they need to ascribe extraordinary charm or beauty or whatever to the person to make it ‘special’ and worthy of the retelling.

      • Hazel says:

        Right. And I found it interesting, that the person first says, oh, nobody noticed her she was just there, then, wow, she’s sooo amazing & electric! Definitely her perception changed in the telling.

  7. Thinker says:

    On one hand, this is exactly what Kate wanted. This is the relationship she made work throughout Wlliam’s various meandering carousels that punctuated their decade long courtship.

    On the other hand, it’s just sad. She’s a 32 year old new mom without any friends of her own, spending the day with her mother, knowing full well that her husband is avoiding her presence.

    • Mel says:

      I have to admit I’m surprised by the way the relationship is going.

    • Florc says:

      Well said Thnker.
      Avoiding his son’s presence as well. That kid will spend many birthdays without William too.

      • Thinker says:

        I think when George is weaned, potty-trained, and able to speak coherent sentences, William will take more of an interest in his son’s upbringing. Specifically, in terms of hobbies, entertainment, and past-times… i.e. hunting, polo, football, general sporting. The things William likes to do. The same way Charles showed more interest in his sons when they were older, and in exactly the same manner (only the fun stuff).

        The grunt work will be left to Kate and the nannies.

    • Hazel says:

      I think she has friends, but they’re her friends, not William’s. Or more specifically, his friends became their friends, but her friends remained hers. Kate & Pippa supposedly spent NYE at a friend’s house, but William couldn’t be bothered–because these were Kate’s friends.

  8. Maria says:

    She looks older but most English people do.

    • Pip says:

      Bwhahahahahahahahaha.

      Seriously????

      • Ice Maiden says:

        That had me shaking my head too.

        Both of the Middleton sisters do look much older than their age, but their mother is looking pretty good at 58.

    • bluhare says:

      Then you need to meet my mother. She’s 81 and looks 20 years younger. Seriously. She’s never been in the sun.

      By the way, would you be insulted if I said something along the lines of “Most American people look stupid”? If you would, then you might want to think about making sweeping generalizations about an entire country.

      Everyone else: I don’t mean that; I threw it out as a counter to what the OP said.

      • Gauchita says:

        I’m gonna say something, bare with me cause english is not my maternal lenguage and it may sound weird or ruff, but I’m really curious as what’s the perception of people from around the world. I think *most* americans look so much older comparing them to the women I know (I’m from Argentina). I’m 28, my sis is 33 and we are shocked everytime we see a reality show -mostly Gordon Ramsey’s american ones- and those women that look like our aunts are actually 26 years old. And I’m not talking about wrinkles; or “letting oneself go”, on the contrary; their straight iron wig and heels style is so bussiness-like! I mean, using someone else’s hair, as if one was a bold old lady is only used by.. rich old bold ladys and tv bimbos, not normal gals. maybe it’s cause they are bigger -latinos tend to be short/small, we are 5 ft 2, wich is pretty normal here- but also they already are married with kids, they look like moms -wich in our mind is a 40 year old- and not young women.

      • bluhare says:

        I’m not everyone, and I’m English although I live in the US, but please don’t take people in reality shows as representative of everyone.

        Personally, other than regional differences in styling, I think people the world over look like people the world over if you know what I mean.

        PS Your English is very good.

      • TheSageM says:

        @Gauchita, I’m Argentinian too and I live in the UK. Women in Argentina take very good care of themselves and their figures. Walking down the high street over here I see a lot of unkept, overweight women who seem to have given up. My brother always remarks on the fact when he comes to visit. Not quite the same in Buenos Aires, where women take a lot of pride in their appearance.

      • Snarkweek says:

        Unkempt or untidy is one thing but being overweight does not mean that a woman has given up on her looks. This seems to be a very negative trend in how women’s bodies are viewed and I think your comment is insensitive and bordering on unkind. I have seen women the world over who were smart, stylish and very well put together and these attributes were not relegated to their weight.

      • MinnFinn says:

        Maria, Gauchita and SageM

        Argentina has the highest per capita cosmetic procedure rate in the world. Hollywood/Beverly Hills is probably in second place. Both cities are outliers when it comes to valuing and investing extreme amounts of time and money on a youthful appearance. Therefore, Buenos Aires is not the place to formulate an accurate worldview as to what is normal aging.

    • Dani2 says:

      What a messy comment to make. You shouldn’t make sweeping generalisations like that about people. I’m part English by origin and I’m aging just fine thank you very much.

    • Florc says:

      Maria
      Making all inclusive statements like that isn’t all that wise.
      It’s like saying the English all have bad teeth and drink tea.
      And I only giggled as your comment because my MiL is English.

    • Kimble says:

      I suppose we all have bad teeth and all the French have personal hygiene problems?

      Doesn’t really get much more ignorant than that!

    • CC says:

      Anyone will age prematurely (British or not) if they smoke, drink too much, sleep too little or too much, eat too little or too much, spends too little or too much time in the sun or tanning lights. Makeup also does more harm than good, it may look nice from a distance, but as HWood actress prove daily, you get a close-up that hasn’t been Photoshopped and they’re a huge mess.

      And we very well know she does a few of the above.

    • GoodNamesAllTaken says:

      Maria, I think most English women have lovely skin, and age very well.

      Gauchita, your English is fine. You might want to work on your tact and sweeping generalizations based on reality shows, however. Rude is rude in any language.

      • bluhare says:

        I didn’t think Gauchita was saying that at all. She asked about perceptions and made her case about reality shows, and I read it to read that if that was all she had to go on that’s what she’d think.

        That being said, you just made the point I made to Maria about sweeping generalizations. Thank you! 🙂

      • GoodNamesAllTaken says:

        Well, I apologize if I misunderstood. I read it again, and still don’t see it the way you do, but I’ll take your word for it. I’m not in the best frame of mind today.

      • bluhare says:

        No apology necessary, GoodNames. Different opinions are what make the world go round.

    • We Miss You Enclave_24 says:

      I agree with you, with the exception of Kate Moss. Most of the English women I have seen PERSONALLY, or in print look very old for their age. To me, they do not appear to age well.

    • LilyT says:

      *stifled chortle hehehe

  9. Christin says:

    Based on comments she’s made and other things, Kate seems very dependent on her mother. It makes me wonder if she realizes the dynamic will have to change at some point?

    She’s 32 yet looks older (to me), but seems emotionally much younger. She seems like a follower who needs to be led and pushed to do anything other than shopping, trips, pampering salon visits, etc. Of course, her husband seems to be a slacker, too.

    • LAK says:

      Her Jigsaw boss said she is someone who leads a life where she is going to be dictated to even when she is not needed. That is an almost verbatim quote. It makes me so sad for Kate, but yes, she’s just a follower and going by that quote, someone who is led/pushed through life by other people.

      • Florc says:

        Even worse her old boss wasn’t speaking negatively about her.
        Kate chose her position. And not as a direct comment to her, but overall.
        Some people never find their passion or will to live. They just coast by with others taking care of them while they stay stagnant, but safe and content. They live without purpose.

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        Candace Cameron would heartily approve 😉

      • Snarkweek says:

        Goodnames I hope this is a tongue in cheek reference to yesterdays article and you are only half serious. Otherwise you difnt fully absorb the entire piece and you are just cherry picking and going for the easy take-down. Florc
        Kate used to show more spark and personality when she was a high school student and she was anything but a follower. God only knows what happened after she met Wills. But dont be surprised if she doesnt have the last laugh – I believe she will one day be the behind the scenes backbone of that marriage.

      • Florc says:

        Snarkweek
        Time will tell.
        She use to have a great deal of life in her photos. Healthy weight, active, natural looking. Then she had several cosmetic procedures done, lost weight, and stopped standing up to William during their dating years. I’m refering to that specific span of time when this happened.

        Anyways, William strikes me as hell to live with if he’s not getting his way Kate seems very submissive. I’m more likely to believe a movie will portray Kate as the woman behind the man as their lifetime engagement movie did and not base it on events.

        TOK
        Indeed she would.

      • wolfpup says:

        What cosmetic procedures has she done? I can see that her teeth were done, I believe that she did something to her nose as well…to thin it out. I wonder if she did something with her eyes. Her hair seems to be enhanced by weaves. I don’t blame her with all the photo’s. What a lot to do to look beautiful, which she does. Am I right about the procedures?

      • bluhare says:

        I don’t think Kate will ever confirm any work other than her teeth, but the thinking is she’s had both the nose and eye bags done.

      • Florc says:

        Wolfpup
        Bluhare is correct. Kate will likely never admit to having work done, but she’s shown a drastic change in her features pre engagement.
        Nose was thinned, and she use to have double bags under her eyes. That got reduced to nearly no bags, but time has a way of undoing even the best cosmetic work. It’s been suspected her chin and cheek bones were done as well, but I don’t know about that.
        Also, her hair and teeth. Yes.
        I don’t fault her either. It was her money and her reasons. I think having work done never fits a persons face. They forever look “wrong” to me. Like something is off, but you can’t tell and don’t want to ask.
        As long as she doesn’t feed us any more lines about that super secret head surgery to explain that weave line she was caught with it’s fine.

    • MavenTheFirst says:

      “It makes me wonder if she realizes the dynamic will have to change at some point? ”

      First of all, she doesn’t strike me as the self-reflective type.

      Secondly, she is wallowing in being coddled and indulged (as long as she is biddable). She knows nothing about harsh reality. She’s a baby wrapped in cotton wool. Why should she ever want to rattle her cage if she can continue to suck her thumb and it’s with general approval?

  10. Neffie says:

    Why are there always mentions of Prince Charles paying for stuff? Didn’t Diana leave them millions, and don’t they get some sort of royal and navy salary? These guys are in their 30’s they must have an income???

    • LadySlippers says:

      Diana did leave them money as have other family members. The military pay for both William and Harry would not be able to pay for the luxuries they are all accustomed to.

      Charles does pay for a lot (especially work related) but my guess is the little stuff William and Kate pay for themselves.

      • Florc says:

        LadySlippers
        This is a topic that confuses me. Does William spend any of his own money? Can we peek into his accounts or are they all private and sealed?
        As I undersstand it, and please someone correct me if i’m wrong, William go a few 10’s of millions from Diana upon her death. It’s all locked up in a high interest account. Charles and royal funds cover everything else. And royals try to ultimately not spend their own cash, ever.

        On a side note If my husband was always finding a reason to spend time away from me and I wasn’t going to divorce him I’d spend his money. Not my father in laws. But Kate is working with what she has I guess.
        Just 1 more thought. While shopping with Carole does Kate put Carole’s items on her FiL’s card as well?

      • bluhare says:

        I would bet Kate would get a new orifice ripped if she did that, Florc. Besides, Carole could be worth more than William is right now if the estimates about the worth of Party Pieces are true. That’s a very good point about the shopping, although now she’s got another house to buy stuff for, right?

        If I recall correctly, Diana left about 30 million to her children. Not sure how it was allocated; if it was an even split or if more went to Harry. I want to say more went to Harry as William will have a lot when he becomes POW and then King.

      • LadySlippers says:

        Royal finances ARE rather secretive but the money Diana left William and Harry were put in trust funds, by Diana’s sisters, and the boys got interest or a small portion of funds yearly upon reaching majority and full control at 30. The dispersion might not be annual but they did get some of the money routinely in order to help with their expenses when they hit the age of majority until they were 30.

        Other family members *may* have left them money as well. I know QM was broke at her death (she had a bit of a gambling problem) but she probably tucked money away for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Diana’s parents too probably left them some funds. All guesses on my part.

        And we’re not even bringing up the money Kate’s parents provide for any, if not all three, of their children. Not an uncommon practice either.

        So no, Charles doesn’t pay for everything, although he does pay a lot. To the best of my knowledge, he picks up all the Royal expenses but nothing more. That would be the expenses for Royal: engagements (clothes), travel (related to Royal engagements), staff, and housing. My guess is they pay for day-to-day (food, toiletries, household stuff, etc.) stuff themselves.

        Military salaries ARE public knowledge (even in the US however I know our salaries don’t paint a full picture) and you should be able to google both their military pay cheques (spelled cheque UK style lol).

        Did I miss anything? Ask again if I did. 🙂

        ETA: IIRC, Diana weighted her will towards Harry as the assumption that the Cornwall duchy will bring William a TON of money.
        And Cornwall and Rothesay duchies are automatically William’s titles as the eldest son once Charles ascends. Wales is invested and is not automatic and only Cornwall comes with any funds too — neither Rothesay nor Wales comes with any money attached to their title.

        Also, strictly a guess but I think William will ask for a bit of time between Charles’ ascension and his investiture as PoW. I’m thinking 2-5 years too.

      • LAK says:

        All royals receive money from a series of royal family trusts at an agreed age, usually early 20s. The grandchildren ie William generation start to receive their money at 25. No one knows for sure how much they receive, but it is estimated to be substantial.

        Further, despite dying broke, QM left trusts to the grandkids. Also receivable at 25.

        William and Harry’s Diana money was invested in a trust which they couldn’t access until an agreed age. The age was later changed to 30yrs at which point they would take control of entire share bequeathed to them. Further, the will asked for Harry to receive a bigger share on grounds that William will inherit the Kingdom, but the trustees* changed that to 50/50. William received his full share on his 30th birthday and Harry will receive his full share later this year when he turns 30.

        As for William and Kate’s expenses, so many people cover their various expenses from Charles to the Middletons to the taxpayers that it’s a wonder that they can spare any expense items to cover with William’s own money.

        And that’s before you factor in people who will give them stuff for free, nevermind that they aren’t allowed to receive gifts or freebies.

        *the trustees changed several of Diana’s wishes, not just with regards to WH, but also bequests to her godchildren.

      • bluhare says:

        LAK. Thank you for that information. I didn’t realize the Trustees of Diana’s will had changed the share to 50/50. I can see it on the one hand (don’t want to treat your children unequally), but this is much different than us “regular” people. I think Harry should have got more. I hope his dad can remedy that.

        Do you know what the argument was to change the pay out?

      • Florc says:

        Wow.
        Thanks LAK, LadySlippers, & Bluhare. Such a wealth of knowledge.
        Last I knew Harry was getting more than William. I wonder why the trustees took an arrangement that seemed fair and made it balanced.

        And I’m not doubting for a moment Will and Kate accept freebies that we rarely find out about after the palace confirmed the helicopter gift. Many royals exist in pure luxury from the generous donations of others without spending a cent of their own.

        LadySlippers
        I knew William took a RAF salary and it was peanuts to him. Can’t find if Harry does the same.

      • LadySlippers says:

        Gosh, I used to have Harry’s Army pay but I don’t have access to it now. But it’s right around the same range William was getting — in the £60k range.

        ETA: I knew the trustees made a lot of changes to Diana’s will but didn’t realise they changed the payout amount to W & H (I knew about the date they could acess the money & short changing her godchildren). Although, it makes sense now remembering how the numbers they used. Diana would not have been pleased with those changes…

      • LAK says:

        oops correction: QM didn’t die broke. She was in debt.

        Bluhare: No reason was ever given for the changes to her wishes. The entire thing was decided behind closed doors and when later asked, they said it was best. Unfortunately, Diana’s will was available to the public so you could check her wishes.

        The media stoked the godchildren’s thwarted bequests more than they did William/Harry’s bequests.

      • bluhare says:

        LAK, it was best? Wow. I do remember the godchildren’s bequests taken away and I thought that was horrible. Were the trustees in charge of her estate the same trustees in charge of her memorial fund? (Sarah McCorquodale, Rosa Monckton, Paul Burrell, and who else? Can’t remember.) I can’t believe that Diana’s sister, friend, and butler would thwart her wishes like that.

      • LAK says:

        Bluhare: I think Anthony Julius was in there. don’t remember that Paul Burrell was included.

      • Snarkweek says:

        I know that Harry received around 6,000,000 pounds or so after he graduated. I don’t remember the source but I do remember reading that he used some of the money to celebrate by taking his girlfriend and a few close friends on a two-week Safari.

      • bluhare says:

        Burrell was a trustee of her memorial fund initially, LAK. I think he resigned pretty quickly after he was accused of stealing.

        GAH!! I know much too much about these people!!

      • Florc says:

        Bluhare
        You know enough. Not too much! And if you knew anymore, you’d still know enough:)
        Can we ever know too much and are still able to function in life? Can we ever be too good at Jeopardy and trivia? No.

      • bluhare says:

        You are a kind, compassionate person, Florc. Thank you.

  11. anna says:

    What a sad life.

    • wolfpup says:

      Yep, perhaps, but where’s the shopping card for my happy life?

    • GoodNamesAllTaken says:

      You may not like her or think you would find fulfillment doing what she does, but I honestly think she’s having a good time. She has everything she wants. I don’t think she was ever going to have a meaningful career or join the Peace Corps or anything. She married very well, she has an adorable son, she shops as much as she wants, buys as much as she wants, works as much (or as little) as she wants, gets to dabble in some charities to feel useful and wears pretty clothes and jewelry when she’s not getting beauty treatments. Oddly, some women are happy with that.

  12. Jackson says:

    Gah! I’m certainly no KM fan-girl but damn, everyone is getting so harsh and critical of her lately. Not that that’s really anything new, but still, is this a big deal? She’s shopping and her husband is doing the coursework thing. It doesn’t mean he’s out effing co-eds or she’s crying in her shopping bags. Damn, people!! LOL!!

    • LadySlippers says:

      The criticism of William and Kate is actually fairly old. It changed post-engagement and is now settling back into its pre-engagement tone.

    • Florc says:

      Jackson
      Lately the criticism has lifted off Kate and dropped on William. She’s seen working more and being engaged while doing so. He is off doing something that is seen more as an excuse than critical to his future role. I think people are seeing that sure Kate may never be a hard worker, but she isn’t the problem.
      And William (allegedly) messing around on Kate isn’t a baseless accusation, but I won’t get into that. There’s too much to cover.

      • bluhare says:

        I saw on the DM the other day that the little girl got a kidney from her mom and will be OK. That was nice to read. And, FWIW, I think Kate’s liveliness at that engagement had more to do with the girl being engaged, not Kate.

        Kate’s reserved. And maybe she’s got anxiety issues. Perhaps that’s why she looks so distant at times, but that kid was just not having it!

      • Florc says:

        That’s nice Bluhare. I love hearing about humanities redeeming acts.

        And Kate can be animated and almost maniacal if her expressions when in public. When in a setting where you must engage someone in conversation and can’t simply receive flowers, shake hands, and smile as you walk by she faulters. If this is an anxiety issue it seems to only surface when she is uninformed about the charity she is visiting. And if it is simply being nervous with groups and crowds she did not prepare for her role those 9 years., but she needs bite the bullet and take initiative.

      • bluhare says:

        I get what you say re Kate being animated and almost maniacal, Florc, but those characteristics can also be trying to hide total, abject fear. (Case in point: Moi!!)

      • Florc says:

        Bluhare
        I had to Google “Moi!!” and I found a furniture department store and “me” in french. So, you mean yourself? If so…
        Kate seemed to be very outgoing for all her years prewedding. And post wedding very comfortable at her galas. If anything she only seems to stumble when she needs to think on her feet. And she did attend lots of events as a perk of her status here she would be in crowds. So, if this is her hiding her fear she needs to learn how not to be afraid all the time.
        You seem very empathetic.

    • kibbles says:

      In my opinion, he married the wrong woman in a different sense from his parents’ doomed relationship. Unlike Charles, William was given more freedom and time to find the right partner in life. There would have been critics regardless of who he ended up marrying, but I think the public would have been much more satisfied with a more modern and hardworking woman than Kate. Someone who had hobbies outside of superficial things like shopping, vacationing, and doing her hair. If he had married a real art connoisseur who had used her art degree in her 20s to do charity work along with working at an auction house, people would have given her a break for taking time off after having a baby. Kate has never had any type of long-term job. People know she is lazy and that will follow her for the rest of her life unless she does a complete 180 and starts working her butt off on the behalf of her charities. I don’t see that happening though.

      • bluhare says:

        Hi kibbles, I agree with you other than one teensy thing. Charles had a ton of time and freedom to find a woman to marry. The fact that he scrambled to find Diana had more to do with his own procrastination than lack of time (and that pesky “must be a virgin” thing).

      • Snarkweek says:

        Kibbles
        I agree with you in one sense but you are forgetting the most important thing: William married the type of woman he wanted and not the one that would have gotten high approval ratings from the public, which would have been an awful factor to choose a spouse anyway. Look how that turned out for his parents.
        Will never wanted a wispy, waspy blueblooded charity ball co-chairwoman as his wife and mother to his children. Reports of him being turned down by all of the aristocratic young ladies in his circle are unfounded.
        Will wanted someone who was laidback, casual, domestic, shy but not virginal, alluring but not a busty bombshell and very supportive/accomodating. Sounds like Kate to me. She is also athletic and has a closeknit family,which he loves.
        The only problem seems to be that Kate is turning into a shadow of her former self. Something weird is going on here. Social anxiety disorder? Postpartum depression? A private agreement to have an open marriage after at least two children are born and maybe Kate sees the clock is ticking? I dont know but the more fragile she seems the more space he puts between them.

      • LAK says:

        Snarkweek: the report that many in his aristocratic circle turned him down isn’t some made up tale.

        Look at every single one of his ex-GFs. Or flings. Kate is the anomaly, despite her family wealth.

        I’d wager Jecca Craig fits every single one of the character descriptions you’ve listed as belonging to Kate because despite marrying Kate, he can’t seem to tear himself away from Jecca and Kate has gone out of her way to model herself on Jecca Craig.

        I’d also ask you to google an article titled ‘why Kate Middleton is Prince William’s only option’ (sorry I can’t post link via my phone).

        This article can be dismissed, except for the fact that it was written by someone who socialises and is part of the royal circle. Not just in a gala sort of way, but has had most of the royals including William stay with him (not just renting his house) and is firm friends with most of them.

        Also, he didn’t write this article to disparage Kate which is why what he writes is actually very revealing and not in a good way for Kate and William.

        Finally, Kate turned into a shadow of herself after they reunited in 2007. There is a royalfan blog that has pics of her from as far back as they can find and it’s so easy to see what a spark she had which she lost after the 2007 media campaign to win William back. She’s never sparked since then, except during her pregnancy and right now it might be that all the reasons you’ve given are coming into play.

      • Snarkweek says:

        It’s just that everything that I’ve read about William leads me to believe that he simply does not do anything that he doesn’t truly want to do. And believe it or not, shock and horror, but there was a time when William actually had to prove himself to Kate to win her back. I simply cannot buy into the whole miss that he had no other choice then to be with Kate. That this was not a situation of the last man standing. Sorry.
        But if you could give me more keywords from the article you reference I would like to Google it. I would love to read such a juicy article!

      • Florc says:

        Snarkweek
        William had to prove himself to Kate to win her back?
        It seemed more like He ended it with Kate. She had a sit down with Carole on how to win Will back and plans were set into action.
        Carole’s tips to Kate were widely publicized. Drop weight, up her style game, date his friends or those in his social circle.
        I can’t see how you could come to the conclusion William couldn’t simply ask for her to come back and she would come running. Not to mention the engagement interview Kate touches upon the recent break up like he hurt her and she was just waiting for him to take her back. That was my impression anyways.
        If anything Snark William knows Kate is perfect for her role because she’ll stick with him through anything. Be it, sad times, low popularity, or constant nights away while he visits a mistress or 2 she will not leave him.

        And I found the article, I think, but it didn’t post. No idea why it’s not allowed.

      • Christin says:

        The article LAK mentioned is very interesting (found it easily via Google). I also searched Jecca’s name, and one of the first results was an article claiming she may be a Camilla to Kate’s Diana. I guess time will tell on that one.

        I can certainly understand the “only option” point of view that young aristocratic women learned from Diana and may not covet the prospect of being a senior royal.

  13. aang says:

    I have always thought, even when I was a teen, that the one person to best spend your birthday with is your mother. After all she was the principle participant at your very first birthday and is most likely the person who loves you most in the world, even if you are happily married. I will soon be celebrating my first birthday without my mother and I am sure glad I have 40 years worth of birthday memories to help me through the day.

    • bluhare says:

      Awww. That was a lovely tribute to your mom, aang. Hang in there.

    • Apples says:

      Man, you have me in tears. I feel the same way as you about my mum. I am sorry for your loss yet happy you treasured the gift of her life while she was with you.

    • megs283 says:

      I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. And I agree with you…I’m close with my mother, and I don’t think it’s lame-o to spend it with her. I think a relationship between a mother and a daughter can be a very special thing.

    • LadySlippers says:

      {{HUGS}}

      In a lot of countries birthdays of children are celebrated by the mother as she’s the one that gave birth. But I think celebrating with your mom (if you can) is even better.

      May you feel your mother in spirit with you as you approach your first birthday without her physical presence.

    • Mel says:

      Hear hear.
      I always brought my mother flowers on MY birthday.
      I think no explanation is necessary. ; )

      Hang in there, Aang.
      The world is not what it seems.

      (((***)))

    • Florc says:

      Hugs aang. That first birthday and holiday is especially tough. Be happy you have the many memories you do!

    • GoodNamesAllTaken says:

      @aang, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope your happy memories bring you some comfort. It sounds like you were a wonderful daughter.

  14. sunny123 says:

    It’s been reported he’ll be home this evening, do your spouses take the day off for your birthdays? It’s a 46 minute train ride back and the past two evenings he’s been back around 6, hardly earth shattering, just in time for a birthday dinner.

    • Thinker says:

      Oh please, his course is “bespoke” meaning its catered to his schedule. He could have started next week if he wanted to spend the day with Kate.

      He also did not spend New Years with the Midds.

      • sunny123 says:

        The course started Tuesday, like most courses after winter break and he’s not the only person in the course. Secondly, he did spend New Year’s in Bucklebury but do carry on..

      • Florc says:

        Sunny
        He has great control. He isn’t bending to the will of others.

      • wolfpup says:

        Where was he on New Years?

      • bluhare says:

        I think he was at the Middletons. This started because Pippa and Kate went to a girls only party on NYE, but I think it was in the daytime.

    • justme says:

      He did get home this evening – I posted a link below. Much ado about nothing. . .

  15. Snarkweek says:

    This is completely non-related but does anyone happen to know if Kate is allowed to keep Diana’s royal jewelry or does she have an obligation to pass it on to her children? Diana did not have to relinquish them according to divorce proceedings as long as she did not sell them. In exchange for this prohibition she was allowed to keep and wear them during her lifetime and in the event of her death they were to be passed on to William’s wife. I also do not know if this was on the occasion of his marriage or when his wife would become the actual princess of Wales. Does anyone know?

    • bluhare says:

      Good question, Snarkweek. I don’t know the answer but you made me muse about her wedding ring. Wonder what happened to that? Maybe Diana stomped it to death. LOL

      Although if I had to guess, I’d say she’ll have to pass it to her children. I can’t think of too many mothers who wouldn’t. Let’s just say I hope I never see Carole wearing Diana’s pearl choker.

    • m says:

      Harry actually got most of them with the understanding that Williams wife would one day wear the crown jewels.

    • Alina says:

      i´ve read somewhere that Harry (as the spare) got most of the jewelry and more of Diana´s money than his brother.

    • LadySlippers says:

      Depends as your question contains a few different things.

      All the State jewellery that was loaned to Diana had to be given back after her death. In fact, HM and the Palace took some heat as it appeared they were more concerned about the jewels than in the fact that Diana had just died.

      I’ve heard some different things about the jewellery personally given to Diana. First, what was hers and what was given to the State for her to wear? That was kind if a tangled question. Second, I read the boys might have split the personal jewels when they were older and I’ve also read it was split evenly. But I haven’t read that Harry got the lion’s share. Now, that’s not saying any of these are true but there’s been a lot of speculation. So I don’t know. I hope that Harry did get the lion’s share though.

      • MinnFinn says:

        Saudi royals and some other oil-rich royals gave Diana some fabulous jewelry as a wedding gift. I suppose those items were split between Will and Harry.

        I also would love to see all the jewelry gifts Kate received when she married. They have been very tight lipped about it and we know she must have received some terrific things. I recall only one jewelry piece from royals outside the UK that the palace disclosed as a wedding gift and that was only after Kate wore it. People recognized it was Cartier and its $10,000 price tag.

      • LAK says:

        MinnFinn: That cartier necklace was £49,000.

        the only other time she’s worn serious jewellery said to be wedding gift was the ruby necklace. That was pretty, but hidden by her hair.

        http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/0f/25/51/0f2551069ca77da364ee8231f8d11e26.jpg

      • Florc says:

        Didn’t Harry get the engagement ring too?

      • LadySlippers says:

        LAK, On tumblr quite a few people thought the ruby necklace as costume jewellery. What say you?

      • bluhare says:

        Florc, Harry did get the ring, but William traded him for her Cartier watch so he could give the ring to Kate.

  16. Donutella says:

    I don’t think its a big deal he is not spending her birthday with her at all and am not reading anything into it. If my birthday falls on a work day I have to work and so does my husband. We just pick a day and time that works – usually on the weekend – and celebrate then. And I usually treat myself to shopping too – and usually shop alone because I like to. Now if it were a milestone birthday or there was a party he didn’t show up for that would be different!

  17. vava says:

    Quote: “She was absolutely beautiful. She has a very magnetic energy about her. She looked absolutely stunning.”

    Oh please, give me a break. We’ve seen all sorts of photos of her where she clearly looks haggard. Magnetic energy? LOL.

    If I were her, I’d rather spend my birthday with my mother than Horseface Willy. Maybe the separation is workin’ for both of them!

  18. themummy says:

    I hardly think his being away taking a course means he is there for the nubile coeds. What a dumb comment.

  19. BeckyR says:

    Nobody really knows what birthday plans have or have not been made.

  20. Bored suburbanhousewife says:

    The way I figure it, William’s two month university course will end just in time for Spring Break! Wonder if he will go to Florida for spring break? Chugging competitions, wet tee shirt tournaments…..I’m visualizing Prince Will Ferrell now in the upcoming movie, based on a true story.

  21. justme says:

    http://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/452977/Prince-William-rushes-to-make-it-back-for-Kate-s-birthday

    Well he made it back for her birthday after all. And the shopping trip with mom was yesterday.

    “The Duke of Cambridge, dressed in baseball cap, white trainers and carrying a rucksack, was spotted running for the train in Cambridge shortly before 5pm.

    William, who was studying at St John’s College, Cambridge, for much of the day as part of his 10-week bespoke course in agricultural management, was back by early evening at Kensington Palace, where his wife spent most of her 32nd birthday ensconced behind the security perimeter with their five-month-old son George.

    Sources close to the couple declined to say exactly how they were marking the birthday tonight but it was thought to be a family meal.”

  22. Jaxx says:

    The hate on this girl just amazes me. Isn’t there renovation going on where they will soon live? Isn’t she allowed, as a newly married woman. to decorate and feather the nest where she and her family will live? Don’t new mothers love to buy things for their growing babies? Doesn’t that require shopping? Or is she supposed to hide out and shop Amazon.com?

    • bluhare says:

      1 Yes, at their country place.
      2. Yes.
      3. Yes.
      4. Yes.
      5. If she wants.

      She could also try throwing in an engagement or two. Especially as a piece about her “coming into her own” and creating a power base was thrown out about what 2014 is about for her, and this was right before the new year. So, yes, there are some expectations. If that translates to “hate on this girl” so be it.

      • Jaxx says:

        I have always believed it is the Queen herself that limits Will and Kate’s calendar. They are such an attractive couple that if they really applied themselves and were seen to be hardworking and dedicated they would become so popular as to overshadow the Queen herself, much less leave any hope for Charles to be a popular king. Just my own belief, throw stones at it all you want. It’s a good thing that Williams reluctance to work fits right in with the Queen’s fears that this couple has the potential to be even more popular and beloved than Diana, overshadowing them all.
        Just imagine the British people’s reaction if this handsome young couple with their adorable baby were front and center, devoted to their charities and each other and in the public eye every day. You can bet the Queen has imagined it and shuddered. William’s time to shine is way down the road.

      • My2Pence says:

        @Jaxx. Their 40 room mansion in London has been completely re-done, which is where they “live” now. Or where they live when she isn’t at home with mummy costing the taxpayers thousands of extra pounds in security every day.

        I personally think HM and the Family Firm need these folks to be as popular as possible now. Membership in the anti-monarchy group Republic dramatically increased after their wedding. If the firm is to survive, these two NEED to be front and center and popular across the entire Commonwealth.

        From an old post: Maybe you are familiar with Richard Palmer (RoyalReporter on twitter). Employed as royal reporter, at official press conferences, etc.

        He asks questions publicly to Palace officials, and they answer directly to him on the record. His responses when queried about Kate’s work ethic? And please remember, he knows exactly what the Palace officials said because they said it to him, directly, officially, On the Record. (Spelling errors below are his, not mine)

        From Spring 2012

        Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter
        @sofia09870 Kate’s office says she is dictating her own pace and is happy with it.

        Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter
        @sofia09870 Kate’s office says she is dictating her own pace and is happy with it.

        Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter
        @HMtheRedQueen She is dicatating the pace and her office says this how she wants to do it.

        Richard Palmer
        @HMtheRedQueen
        One Sunday broadsheet claimed llast weekend there was concern Kate was doing too much. But there is no concern on that score.

        Obviously, believe what you want about her schedule and who sets it. I’m going to base my opinions about that off the publicly-stated evidence.

      • bluhare says:

        Jaxx, the Queen is reducing her schedule and Charles is picking up the slack. It’s been reported that William especially is starting to do some engagements for HM (like that investiture he did recently), so I don’t think the Queen shares your discomfort. I suspect that Diana is very much in the memory banks; however, Camilla is not trying to outshine Charles, nor is Kate trying to outshine William at this point.

        I’m sorry, but when a 92 year old man with significant health issues outperforms his grandchildren three or four times over, that doesn’t look very good for the grandchildren.

      • wolfpup says:

        Why do these people even want to be royal? They don’t need the income… It can’t be that they were ordained by “God”! For the jewels…? Is the attention, the fawning, worth, needing to be on your best behavior, all of the time, in public? What is this tension; the love/hate thing that they have going on about their public…servants, commoners and subjects? How do they see? It goes on both sides, the calculating. What are they hiding? More exactly, what do they want?

    • MavenTheFirst says:

      “Don’t new mothers love to buy things for their growing babies?”

      Reports are that she is buying antique carpets.

    • Suze says:

      It’s not hate and she’s not a girl.

    • stella says:

      Jax – the definition of “hate” must have changed recently. All I see is commenters calling Kate out on her laziness, lack of a work ethic and pointing out – quite rightly – that she appears stiff, & uncomfortable when dealing with people outside her social circle. It’s not “hateful” to point out facts or state the obvious — her actions speak louder than these words anyway. She is lacking in charisma and there’s not too much she can do about that, but she could try to be more like true working royals like Princess Anne for example.

  23. Helvetica says:

    I really like this Duchess. 🙂

    • My2Pence says:

      @Helvetica.

      1) I’m wondering if you’re assuming (incorrectly) that people who criticize her work ethic can’t also like her?

      2) What are the things about her that make you like her?

      • Linda says:

        She does not owe you an explanation as to why she likes Kate sheesh.

      • Florc says:

        Linda
        What is wrong with someone asking what someone finds appealing about something they’ve said, publicly, they like?
        There’s no harm in asking at all. And no need to get so defensive.
        Especially on a site where opinions are stated and often backed up.
        If she said she likes Kate because of her hair and clothes and married to a prince, where is the harm in that?
        Sheesh indeed.

      • My2Pence says:

        Thank you, Florc. I was just curious. I’m not demanding that anyone answer me, I’m just curious. If she doesn’t want to answer, obviously she doesn’t have to.

        Often people who criticize Kate Middleton are accused of being “haters” and “jealous.” When people point out that 1) criticizing doesn’t mean you don’t like someone and 2) mention what things KM could do to address the criticism and be more liked, what is the harm in that?

      • Florc says:

        My2Pence
        I enjoy your opinions and you’ve proven yourself to be very passive. Maybe Linda took your question as baiting Helvetica to answer so you’d rip her answer apart?
        When there was nothing wrong with you asking and it didn’t show malicous intent.

        I find that those who debate the pros of Kate are often lacking with reasons of substance so they revert to calling her critics names and dismissing our opinions outright.
        We have been getting a lovely bunch here that base their arguments on facts! justme and Snarkweek off the top of my head. There are more.
        They site links back up opinions. They admit she isn’t perfect which makes their argument more believable too.

        If Kate or her PR or whatever is controlling her image could back off from claiming she’s a hardworker I know this site and commentors would ease off, no?

      • Snarkweek says:

        Florc
        Well that’s just the thing. I think most people are not naturally mean, snobby or hateful towards Kate. The one problem that most of us have is the fact that the press and the media will not let the public just make up their own minds based on the evidence or public record. They keep trying to convince us of a certain fairytale truth which is insulting. It is also insulting to believe that everything Kate does is conniving or perpetually wrong. The truth is always somewhere in the middle. But almost everyone on this site uses their wisdom, excellent memory and intuition to substantiate their claims. At the end of the day it is all just fun gossip and speculation but I like to think that the wonderful commenters on this site are smarter and snappier than most. I do not always agree with everyone, of course, but there is not a lot of Kate hate or Kate worship here. And I cannot tell you how much I have learned from everyone here 🙂

  24. ann says:

    its interesting how kates hair and looks make her popular , first that hair needs to be dyed black, her real hair has grey, and extensions, that is why she spends six hours in a saloon, now for her clothes, they are not fashionable, she dresses sometimes like a granny and other times like a teenager her skirts are too short, ugly coats always hey is there anything this woman can do right of course stalking that i give her credit

    • Florc says:

      ann
      A theory on why her hair and style is all that’s talked about and that made her popular is simple enough.
      The press must write something nice about the future consort and PoW. She must be promoted. She has a degree, but it’s never been used. She’s held 2 jobs, but they were more busy work and she left them quickly. She’s never taken an interest in a charity. In short, the press was left with very superficial qualities (hair, clothes, weight).

  25. Jocelyn says:

    Cool,I never knew our birthday is in the same month! Well happy late birthday to her.