This year has been unique for the Prince and Princess of Wales, as both Prince William and Kate Middleton navigate personal challenges amid the festive season.
Recently, the royal couple faced one of their toughest situations yet, with news breaking of Kate's private health battles. Following her cancer diagnosis, which she initially chose to keep confidential, Kate was eventually compelled to address the public speculations around her health. According to reports, she is now doing much improved, positively affecting the couple's dynamic.
Despite the turbulence, Prince William has shown unwavering support for his wife as they tackle difficulties together. This tribulation has reportedly drawn them closer, with both prioritizing their family during these trying times. This holiday season marks what they describe as a "different and special" Christmas for the family.
Traditionally, royal family festivities include specific customs, one being the custom of dining separately from the children during official Christmas meals. This rule, which applies to all children within the royal family including Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, is deeply entrenched within royal traditions and has been upheld across generations. According to former royal chef Darren MacGrady, the children typically eat separately until they attain the maturity appropriate for dining at the adult table. He revealed, "The children always ate in the nursery until they were old enough to behave properly at the dining room table."
These longstanding customs serve to keep the family gatherings orderly and highlight the importance of maintaining decorum during official events. The separation helps alleviate potential disruptions from younger kids, who might prefer playing over formal dining. MacGrady elaborated, explaining, "For Queen Elizabeth II, it was never about placing high chairs at the dining table with screaming babies throwing food; it was Victorian. The children's place is at the nursery with their nanny taking care of them. It's reminiscent of modern-day Downton Abbey.”
While this holiday will certainly be different for William and Kate amid their personal lives, their dedication to family remains unyielding. The couple has demonstrated their capacity to cultivate strong bonds, as they rise together amid adversity.
Although this year has unveiled fresh struggles for the royals, family traditions remain. With their focus on unity during this challenging time, it is hoped they will create special memories this Christmas, even as they navigate through significant changes.
