Saturday, 22 June 2013

William and Harry Attend Society Wedding Of The Year, Royal Baby E-Card + More

Prince William arrived at Alnmouth station last night for the society wedding of the year.It had been expected the Prince, who turned 31 yesterday would be accompanied by the Duchess, however there was a change of plan as Kate is only three weeks from her due date and Alnwick is 300 miles from London, where the Duchess will be give birth at St Mary's.

Nancy Warkworth Twitter Feed

More from the Daily Mail story:

'While her due date is still some weeks off, the Duchess has decided not to risk the 300 mile drive to the North East. There is a very slim chance she could go into labour. Kate is gutted - as are Tom and Melissa - but she decided not to take any chances.'

While the Duchess couldn't make it today, I decided to cover the wedding because we've discussed it on the blog for some weeks.

The wedding of Lady Melissa Percy and Thomas van Straubenzee has been dubbed 'the royal wedding of the year' and is the biggest society bash since William and Kate's nuptials. Melissa (known as Missy to her friends) is the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland and her ancestral home Alnwick Castle (pronounced Annick) might look familiar to you...

Alnwick Castle Facebook Page

The first two Harry Potter movies were partly shot there leading to Melissa gaining the nickname the 'Hogwarts Heiress'.

Alnwick Castle Facebook Page

The castle is a huge tourist attraction in Northumberland, but had closed for a week in order to prepare for the wedding reception.

Alnwick Castle

Thomas van Straubenzee, who has been a very close friend of William and Harry's since they were Eton schoolmates, works as a city broker and his family own a modest estate in Grantham. Thomas has been a prominent figure within William and Harry's circle for most of their lives.

The Groomsmen arrived quite early for the wedding which took place at 5 pm in St Michael's Church, Bailiffgate. You can watch a video of William at the Northumberland Gazette saying "hello" to the camera.

North News Twitter Feed

Mark Stewart shared a photo of final preparations at the church today.

@RegalEyes Twitter Feed

Pippa Middleton, a close friend of the bride's brother George Percy, attended wearing a print Tabitha Webb peplum dress.

North News Twitter Feed

Prince Harry's girlfriend Cressida Bonas arrived with Princess Eugenie.


While Harry's ex-girlfriend, trainee solicitor Chelsy Davy, was chief bridesmaid. The royal circle is certainly a close one isn't it? :)


Harry was all smiles upon arrival.


William and Chelsy enjoyed a chat outside the church.


And most importantly, a look at the bride and groom. Lady Melissa looked elegant in a Bruce Oldfield gown with flowers by local florist Caro Dickinson, who also decorated the church. The couple left in a restored horse-drawn carriage that is almost 200 years old.

North News Twitter Feed

It appeared to a beautiful wedding and the reception in Alnwick Castle will no doubt be amazing. It was also a special day for the locals who lined the streets to see the bride and groom. It would have been lovely to have seen Kate there, however rest is most important for her at this point.

We'll end this segment by wishing the happy couple all the best and taking a look at Kate and Lady Melissa chatting at a polo game in 2010.


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With under a month until the royal baby is due, the folks at Adobe have created an e-card for well wishers from all over the world to sign congratulating the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their new arrival. The card, which was created by talented British designer Wayne Hemmingway, officially launched earlier this week. Following the baby's safe arrival it will be electronically delivered to William and Kate.

Adobe

Adobe is hoping to collect at least 50,000 signatures; to sign the e-card click here.

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As requested, our lovely commentor Kate From Texas has kindly shared a selection of photos from Trooping the Colour. Kate, who has just returned from her holiday in London, had a wonderful time and the opportunity to see the Royal Family at the Queen's annual birthday parade.

Kate From Texas

A closer look at Kate.

Kate From Texas

The Royal Family on the balcony.

Kate From Texas

The Wessex children appear to be particularly enjoying the flypast :)

Kate From Texas

An amazing photo of the RAF flypast.

Kate From Texas

With many thanks to Kate for sharing her wonderful photos! It was so enjoyable to see them :)

Kate From Texas

We'll see you Monday with news on the next Baby Cambridge Fundraiser activity. Have a great weekend!
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73 comments:

  1. Pauline Oak HIlls22 June 2013 at 21:10

    Thank you Charlotte for bring us this great post. I know most of us Duchess fans are disappointed the Duchess could not make the trip. But with her just a few weeks away from giving birth it was a good idea not to travel the 300 miles. It seems William traveled by train. That most have been faster then car.

    If any of you fans have not signed the e card that, follow the instructions Charlotte has posted her and go sign it. It is sucha great idea. We as fans can sign a card that will be sent to William & Catherine conce the baby is born. How Exciting to be involved with such a great idea. Thank you Charlotte for bring us this chance. You are the best.

    I hope the Duchess is getting the reat she need's and I wish her an easy & safe delivery. With William by her side she will do find.

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  2. Pauline Oak HIlls22 June 2013 at 21:13

    To Kate from Texas- Thank you for sharing your beautiufl pictures of your trip to the UK. How exciting for you to be able to see the beautiful Duchess and the royal family.

    Thanks again my friend and glad you had a great trip.

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  3. Hello Charlotte!
    Do you think, Kate, William and baby will have an official photos?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies

    1. Yes there will definitely be official photos.

      Delete

  4. I haven't commented here before, but I must say I love Kate-from-Texas's photos. They have a charm about them that sets them apart from news photos, don't you think? I always love your blog, Charlotte. Thank you for doing it.

    Marci from Salt Lake City

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  5. I haven't commented here before, but I have to say that the photos of Kate-from-Texas have a charm about them that news photos simply cannot match. I always love your blog, Charlotte. Thank you for doing it. This one is fun while we wait for the birth of the royal heir.

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    Replies

    1. Thank you so much for commenting Marci!

      Delete
    2. Kate, Texas, USA23 June 2013 at 21:18

      Marci, thank you for your kind words! I was desperately trying to take in the moment and get great photos at the same time! Charlotte does an AMAZING job with the blog! So glad you joined the wonderful family.....WELCOME!!!

      Delete

  6. Thank you very much to Kate from Texas for such beautiful photos!
    And thanks to you dear Charlotte for such great posts. I really love your blog!
    I wish you all a very nice week end.

    Monica, France

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  7. Thank you for the post. I'm happy that you included Kate's photos. :)

    @ Kate from Texas ...
    Thank you so much for sharing. You took some amazing pictures. Prime locations, too.

    The bride looked lovely, but the tiara overpowered her, IMO. And I hope to see a wide-brimmed hat on Pippa one of these days. A larger, sheer-like brim would have softened the look.

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    Replies

    1. I agree with you on Pippa's hat. My first thought was - why in the world is she wearing a hat with horns??

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  8. New commenter here too! While the entire post was excellent (as usual) I have to agree with the others that Texas Kate's photos were by far the best I've seen of the event. Absolutely more charming than the official ones released by news agencies...so great of her to share them, and so nice to get a peek!

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  9. so cool for kate from texas!

    i just wanted to wonder/speculate if the baby is coming sooner than we think? either you are about to give birth or not...doesnt the baby drop when you are about to go into labor? maybe kate didnt want to go and made the excuse of the baby because with todays technology and stuff, and im sure her doctors would know if her body is preparing for labor

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    1. Pauline Oak Hills23 June 2013 at 01:28

      Anonymous- I am sure the Duchess's dr.s and advised against the long travel either it be by car, train or chopper. I beleive we do not know everything that is going on with her. Yes when a baby is about to be born it drop's into position. But it can be a week or few weeks before it is born. And I am sure it was not an excuse not to attend the wedding. Why would she use that as an excuse when her husband would be going alone again. I am sure William would want his wife with him but he want's what is best for his wife & baby. And the Duchess know's what her body is doing & telling her. If you have never had a baby you would not understand what it feel's like when you are about to give birth.

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    2. The Straubenzees have been close friends with William and Harry for years and have been with William (and Kate) throughout their relationship. Kate does what pleases William, his friends are her friends, and I'd have to think she certainly would have attended this wedding if she was able. I'd guess that Kate's due date is far, far closer than the July 11 date that's being put about by the Palace. The royals have access to instant helicopter transportation and other rapid methods of getting Kate, if she was to to into labor, from the wedding back to London, not to mention labor for a first baby can be protracted, I have to think her due date is very close. She knows that and her doctors know that. I can only think that an imminent labor would keep her away from today's events.

      Delete
    3. Sarah from Calif.23 June 2013 at 15:25


      by car (3 hours) 8 months pregnant. Ughhhhhhh
      by train and helicopter -pretty risky for an heir to the throne and momma

      Delete
    4. Pauline Oak HIlls23 June 2013 at 19:41

      @Sarah from Calif- I agree with you Sarah. I am sure if William & his Duchess thought it was ok for her to attend the wedding she would have been there. I know dr.'s don't like a pregnant woman to fly after 6 or 7 months. And going by train with all that a train can do to your body, also not a good idea. I am sure William checked in through out the day with her at home. I think she will be having Baby Cambridge sooner then expected. Can't wait.

      And I guess I don't get my lunch in Santa Barbara...lol

      Delete
    5. Sarah from Calif.23 June 2013 at 22:54

      Lol Pauline, you just have a momma's heart. Very protective. :)
      sorry no lunch but we can wager another time.

      Delete
    6. Pauline Oak Hills24 June 2013 at 03:57

      Sarah- Yes I am a very protective mommy. Even when my babies are in their 40's & late 30's ...lol They never get to old to baby. And then I just read a commetn here where the person was commenting on the William must be upset with his Duchess for missing his polo matches and having to do things without her. I would think that is not even in his mind. I am sure he misses her not being with him but I am sure also that he just wants to make sure she is resting, that she is ok and their baby is safe. And we know William is very protective of his Duchess.

      Delete

  10. What is a trainee solicitor (Chelsea Davies' job)? And thanks Kate for sharing your pics!

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    Replies
    1. Pauline Oak Hills23 June 2013 at 01:29

      Ms. Davies is a attorney. In the UK when you just graduate your are considered a trainee solicitor. I have no idea how long you are called that.

      Delete
    2. Pauline Oak Hills23 June 2013 at 01:34

      Charlotte- I read where William spent his birthday private with his Duchess but he was spotted at the train station in Alnmouth last night. Was he spotted later in the evening/night? And if you know is he spending the whole weekend there?

      And thank you for posting the pictures from Kate from Texas trip to the UK.

      Delete

    3. Hello Pauline,

      I believe the photos were tweeted early in the evening time. I have no idea if they're planning to stay all weekend, William will be returning to work in Anglesey afterwards I expect.

      Delete

    4. Charlotte, I have to say that I love the order of pictures you have posted,,all in total synchronization :))

      Delete

    6. A solicitor is a type of lawyer in the UK. (You may also hear about barristers, another type.) After they finish their legal studies, solicitors do an apprenticeship with a firm for two years. However, Miss Davy finished her studies quite some time ago, and she's been called a "trainee" for a while now. She really ought to be finished with her training contract.

      Delete

  11. Thank you Charlotte! Lady Melissa looks gorgeous however Cressida looks awful.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Elizabeth from Colorado23 June 2013 at 02:20

    Lovely photos, Kate from Texas!

    ReplyDelete

  13. Man. Pippa's hat and dress.. Eugh

    ReplyDelete
    Replies

    1. All of Pippa's recent dresses have that same sleeve, which looks dowdy to me and not a good length on her arms. The hat - I thought stag antlers, just odd.
      The bride and groom look radiantly happy and I feel sure Catherine was sorry to miss the event. Baby first! And she could be feeling tired and uncomfortable now. Imagine the uproar if she had to be rushed back to London at public expense.

      Delete

    2. It seems so similar to this dress of hers from a year ago: http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/pub/21publish/f/fashion/PippaMiddleton.jpg

      I like the pattern better - but agree the hat was a little funny!

      Delete

  14. Hate to be a wet blanket but please, the focus of the wedding should be the bride and groom - not Kate's condition. Apparently William and Harry agreed since they kept their commitments in supporting roles for their friends on their special day. I love Chelsy Davy, she always looks so - normal and cute. Not Barbie-doll perfect all the time.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies

    1. The site is about Kate of course we are going to talk about her,

      Delete

    2. I'm not sure how Charlotte could have covered this wedding without mentioning Kate since she is the subject of this blog. And ditto for those of us who come here to discuss her.

      Regarding Barbie-doll perfection. I don't believe anyone falls into that category. Perhaps some people just have it in them to do one heck of a job of pulling off non-perfection.

      Delete

  15. Thank you Charlotte for posting Kate from Texas's pictures!Its awesome to see a first hand account of the pictures from someone who was actually there in person!Kate, the pictures are of superb quality and crystal clear. Congratulations to the married couple!!However, the crown on her head could've looked better situated if her veil were running under the crown,like it did Kate's.What was that on Pippa's head? When I was scrolling down the blog, the first thing I noticed were the rhino horns on her head! Loved her dress, though.
    Can't wait for some early news of the baby, and Kate.
    Thanks chica for this fabulous post!!xoxo

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  16. Love this post. Love Kate from Texas' photos. Thanks so much. Colorado Eve

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  17. Thank kate form texas our photos are great and different form the snap of the media love lady mellissa precy wedding although the wind the bridemaids manage her veil and her wedding gown love chelsy davy looks good and happyn she natural a stunner to me cressidra looks awful and what prince harry been thinking this aftenoon one picture he seems confused i actually like the bride wedding gown the tiara looks good her tom looks a dapper in his suit ... and pippa middleton hat i dont know if horn with a trumpet cressidra bonas dress overflowing

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  18. I loved reading the posts. Thank you so much for the lovely pics too, they make the posts so much more vibrant. I've been following this blog non-stop for over a year now, and I've become addicted to it. It is surely the best blog dedicated to Kate! :) Way to go, Charlotte! :)
    Can hardly wait for the arrival of Baby Cambridge! :)

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  19. Jean from Lancs.23 June 2013 at 09:35

    Thank you for the post Charlotte and Kate from Texas for sharing her photos.
    When I saw Catherine a few weeks back in Manchester, I thought her lovlier than even photos show her---wondered if you got the same impression Kate.
    Lovely wedding dress for a summer bride--unfortunate that Northumberland decided to be "back endish" as we Northerners say.
    Splendid tiara the bride was wearing.
    Lots of very dapper gentlemen.
    The small bridesmaids were dressed as woodland nymphs--or were they Robin Hood and his Merry Men(and girls)?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies

    1. Back endish? You must elaborate Jean :)
      What a beautiful place to get married! I am from Northumberland & grew up very close to Alnwick, many times as a little girl I wished I lived in that castle!!
      The bride looked stunning & the wedding party were all smiles, what a fantastic day it must have been!
      Louise, Bath UK

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    2. How lovely that you got to see the Duchess in Manchester, Jean!

      Delete
    3. Jean from Lancs.23 June 2013 at 21:01

      Back-endish---Autumnal weather

      Delete
    4. Kate, Texas, USA23 June 2013 at 21:15

      Jean, the couple times I have seen Kate (last year and this recent trip), I have thought the same. She really does have a warm, natural grace and beauty about her. As I have said before, from my impression I think her inner beauty matches her outer beauty which makes the outer beauty even more lovely. :) William has an absolute jewel and he knows it! She will make a fabulous queen one day!

      Delete
    5. Kate, Texas, USA23 June 2013 at 21:37

      Louise, I loved your comment about wanting to grow up in Alnwick as a little girl. That's so precious! What a beautiful place to grow up and fun you can recall such sweet memories!

      Delete
    6. Sarah from Calif.24 June 2013 at 00:14

      Jean if Back - endish means -Autumnal weather. What do they say for summer, spring and winter ?????
      . I have been watching so many British movies ()BBC classics) partly because I love the accent and the difference in language. The one I watched last night (Lilies) from Ireland had my head spinning trying to figure out what was being said. Don't think me critical folks I love language and trying to understand people :)

      PS. Loved the robinhood boys and nymph or fairy girls.

      Delete

    7. Kate,
      I could not agree more with your comment @ 21:15. Well said! :)

      Delete

  20. You took beautiful photos Kate :)
    Thank you for sharing :)
    Wish you all a lovely Sunday !

    ReplyDelete

  21. Great coverage of a non-Kate event, its always interesting to peek into their lives! I happened to be sat two rows behind cressida bonas at the queens club final, she was there with her sister and her husband sam branson to support richard branson at the match i imagine, along with some other male friends!

    ReplyDelete

  22. Thanks for another excellent post, Charlotte! Fantastic photos, Kate from Texas! I'm sure it was the trip of a lifetime for you! :o)

    I'm glad that Kate is erring on the side of caution when it comes to traveling this late in her pregnancy. She was certainly sad to miss all the wedding festivities but she's wise to stay put and not risk early labor. I pray that she's feeling well.

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  23. Chelsy Davy appears to be wearing an engagement ring. I must have missed some news!

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    Replies

    1. The ring is on her right hand.

      Delete
    2. Sarah from Calif.23 June 2013 at 20:57

      Bitter sweet times. Father in law just passed away at 83 , baby Cambridge soon to be born, just celebrated 33 years of marraige, people getting married, ladies dressing up (much to the like or dislike of others) and fabulous pictures from our blogger friend Kate! !!!!!! Life is good although, painful at times. So much better surrounded by friends and loved ones.

      Delete

    3. Sarah, I am so sorry to hear your father in law passed away, my deepest condolences to you and your family at this very difficult time. It is so painful to lose a loved one, surround yourself with your closest family and friends.

      You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers x

      Delete

    4. Very sorry for your loss, Sarah. <3

      Julie

      Delete
    5. Kate, Texas, USA23 June 2013 at 21:40

      Oh Sarah, I am so, so sorry. I know you mentioned in an email you felt his time was drawing to an end. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. You are lifted up from a wonderful community here! Lots of hugs during this difficult time. XXXX

      Delete
    6. Jean from Lancs.23 June 2013 at 22:02

      Sarah,
      So sorry about your Father-in-law.
      You are in my thoughts and prayers.

      Delete
    7. Sarah from Calif.23 June 2013 at 23:00

      Thank you ladies, what a lovely community of friends. To the above like like like....

      Delete

    8. Sarah,, so so sorry to hear about your father-in-law!:((
      Hugs and prayers to you and your family!

      Delete
    9. Pauline Oak Hills23 June 2013 at 23:20

      Sarah- So sorry to hear that your family has lost your father in law. Just know that all your friends here on this wonderful blog are with you. My thoughts & prayers go out to you & the family. And congrats on the 33yrs of marriage. Sending alot of hugs your way.

      Delete

    10. Sarah, I'm so sorry to hear about your father-in-law.

      Delete

    11. Robin Indiana USA
      Sarah so sorry so hear about your loss may God be with during this difficult time.

      Delete
    12. Marta from Poznań24 June 2013 at 08:31

      Be strong Sarah !

      Delete

    13. So sorry, Sarah. Losing family is so tough. Age doesn't lessen the sense of loss. My thoughts are with you!

      Delete

  24. Thanks Kate from Texas for wonderful photos!

    A beautiful bride and Chelsy looks fantastic. She does have a very natural beauty.

    A pity Kate had to miss it but it is a long journey. More puzzled that she would miss polo and the garter ceremony. William must be getting a bit weary of her continued absences. Frankly, compared with other slim celebrities due in late June or early July, Kate doesn't look that big. Maybe it's a small baby or she is due later in July. First babies are often late too.

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    Replies
    1. Pauline Oak Hills23 June 2013 at 23:17

      Anonymous- I don't believe in a minute that William is getting upset with the absences of his beautiful Duchess. His main concern is her health. There might be reasons we do not know of why she can not attend the polo matches. Looking at some of the pictures of the past polo matches there is alot of standing and when you are ready to give birth standing is something you don't want to do. You make it sound like all William cares about is having her by his side. But IMO his main concern is her health and the safety of both the baby & his Duchess.

      Delete

  25. Robin Indiana USA
    What a surprise and see a post today. Thanks Charlotte for showing Kate's pictures they were wonderful. I have already signed the ecard so exciting to be part of the royal birth. It's just a matter of days now! William and Harry I must say looked quite handsome. The bride was lovely I thought her flowers were too big.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Kate, Texas, USA23 June 2013 at 21:35

    Thank you all so much for your kind comments about the pictures. As I commented above, I was trying to take in the moment as well as get good pictures. I told Charlotte between the excitement and nerves of the whole day, I took 622 pictures just of Trooping, but only sent her a few. It really was a fabulous day and everyone was so cheerful! The highlight of course was seeing William and Kate, but also the Queen. I have such great respect and admiration for the incredible job she has done and the example she is to so many, especially women. One thing that really made me smile was seeing the Queen's joy and smile during the flypast. I thought of how many she has seen in her reign of 61 years and yet she still has a smile from ear to ear! LOVE it! Seeing Kate's beautiful bump was another highlight! She truly is beautiful and so happy!

    The pictures and videos from the wedding were great! Lady Melissa Percy looked stunning! I LOVED her dress! She and Thomas looked so happy and it seemed to be such a beautiful day. Hoping to have a good write-up and pictures in Hello magazine. Charlotte, will you keep us posted if they do? I would love to pick one up. :) I find it fun and interesting how close the Royal and aristocratic circles are as Charlotte mentioned. I have mentioned before, but I would love to see George Percy and Pippa hook up. I know they are good friends, but always fun to think about! Speaking of Pippa...the fascinator...wow. Not too sure I am a fan of it, but her dress was pretty. Seemed like such a great time! It was sad Kate couldn't attend, but hopefully she had a quiet weekend in Bucklebury relaxing with her parents. She'll have enough excitement over the next few weeks!

    Thank you again for all your kind comments about the pictures and thank you Charlotte for being happy and willing to post them. Wishing all of you a wonderful rest of the weekend!

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  27. Hi Does anyone know how to view the results of the style rocks ring giveaway? Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  28. Kate, Texas, USA23 June 2013 at 21:42

    One thing I forgot to mention was how tiny the balcony really is compared to the massive palace. The Royals are very tiny standing up there, especially the Queen. Thank goodness for zoom lenses! :)

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    Replies

    1. Robin Indiana USA
      Kate I never would of thought that. I guess being there really in person is so different than watching on tv. I am so happy for you that you were able to get so wonderful pictures to pass down to your children. Part of their heritage. Thank you so much for sharing. My goal is to take a trip to England and especially London. Hopefully with Charlotte's blessing we can. Exchange emails. Happy love from Indiana, Robin.

      Delete

    2. Of course Robin, send me your email and I'll forward it to Kate :)

      Delete

    3. Robin Indiana USA
      Charlotte I have misplaced your email can you send it again. Thanks and Happy Monday!

      Delete

  29. Sorry for you lost again sarah yes hope charlotte will give me her email and you too eobin is nice to have new friends in your blog maybe i will contact one of you and invite you to visit me canada i never been to london and france my goal next year is to tour in london in france nowim vacation in spain with my sister

    ReplyDelete

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