As the holiday season approaches, it’s evident that Meghan Markle is preparing to make it a special Christmas for her two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. In an illuminating conversation with *Marie Claire*, the Duchess of Sussex expressed her enthusiasm for the Christmas season, revealing how her perspective has evolved as her children have grown. Initially, the excitement of the holidays may have been one-sided, with Meghan basking in the joy of having her new family during this festive time. However, as her children have matured, she embraces the thrill of experiencing the season through their eyes. This year, she anticipates seeing Christmas unfold from their youthful perspective, which brings an additional dimension to her own enjoyment.
Integral to the Markle household is a collection of heartwarming Christmas traditions. Meghan shared that the family has a delightful custom of leaving out “carrots for the reindeer,” showcasing a commitment to cultivating the magic of Christmas for her children. This emphasis on creating lasting memories highlights Meghan’s desire to intertwine tradition with the wonder of childhood. Such rituals not only create a festive atmosphere but also provide a sense of continuity and reassurance for children navigating the complexities of growing up in the public eye.
However, the season of festivities extends beyond Christmas, with Thanksgiving just around the corner. Meghan describes their Thanksgiving celebrations as typically “low-key,” prioritizing family connections and simple pleasures. The importance of familial presence is evident as she mentions cherishing time with her own mother during this holiday. Including casual festivities—sharing meals, playing games, and even having music around—captures the essence of familial bonding that transcends royal duties. Meghan’s reflections remind us that, regardless of one’s social standing, the heart of the holidays revolves around time spent with loved ones and the joy that accompanies these gatherings.
Connecting Tradition with Modern Celebrations
The Sussex family’s holiday practices incorporate personal touches and unique rituals that echo more traditional royal customs while simultaneously refreshing them with modern sensibilities. Prince Harry, speaking in his memoir *Spare*, shed light on their family Christmas celebrations, recalling the excitement of setting up their first Christmas tree together as a new family unit. The narrative offers a glimpse into their life outside the royal confines, showcasing moments filled with laughter, warmth, and reflection. The family’s decision to FaceTime friends during their holiday festivities illustrates a blend of traditional and contemporary practices, ensuring that connections with loved ones, both near and far, remain intact.
Significantly, Harry’s anecdotes also highlight the thoughtful gifts exchanged within their family circle, particularly the personalized presents from the late Queen Elizabeth II. The story of the waffle maker intended for Archie not only reflects a touching gesture of a grandmother’s love but also bridges the past with the present. The act of preparing organic homemade waffles serves as a nurturing ritual that Meghan creates for her son, emphasizing her commitment to cultivating an enriching home environment.
Amidst this family-centric holiday spirit, Meghan’s involvement with charitable initiatives, such as her participation in a dinner hosted by Mina’s List, sheds light on the importance of giving back during the holiday season. The focus on supporting women who have resettled from Afghanistan through the Archewell Foundation underscores a cornerstone of the couple’s ethos: using their privilege and platform for social good. The commitment to uplifting others during this time is a reminder that the joy of the holidays can extend far beyond one’s immediate family and into the community.
As Meghan prepares for this year’s celebrations, one can’t help but admire her balance between nurturing her family traditions while remaining attuned to the broader social context of the holidays. Through her efforts, she immortalizes the essence of the season—joy, connection, and giving—while simultaneously fostering a safe haven for her children to explore the wonder of Christmas. As festivities unfold, one can only hope that families everywhere find inspiration in the efforts to blend tradition with modernity, echoing the universal themes of love and togetherness that define the season.