Thank you for giving me some laughs today. I love it when people who do not know the aristocracy and royalty of Great Britain personally presume just because they studied them, are British, read the gossip sheets, etc. know them as if they know them personally like their mum and dads.
That is like me making comments on you without knowing you personally. I can’t do it, as it is not fair to make assumptions.
Yes, I am related actually. My maternal grandfather is a duke who is a cousin to the queen and my mother is a friend of Princess Anne's. Out of respect for my grandparents, I will not publish here their dukedom.
I have met all the children of the Queen on a few occasions and have went to Eaton with many members of the aristocracy. I was a few years ahead of William though.
I think some people on here due to the length of time they have been posting and their "titles" under their monikers think they are experts.
I have never claimed to be such at all.
By the way, I went to Edward and Sophie's wedding and my mother has talked with Sophie about their decision not to have their children take the HRH....it was their choice and the Queen backed them on it as they felt it would release their children from some of the expectations that come along with that HRH.
They are distant cousins descended from the female line, and the Earl Of Harewood fell out of royal favor from court because he divorced and remarried. He even had to give up several of his patronages.
The male line descendents families from George V still count as royalty, are part of the royal family, and are very visible on certain royal occasions...all the Kents and all the Gloucesters.
Zara is a member and as such, she received her first patronage role not two years ago. She may not get money from the Civil List to live off of, but that is a moot point in this case.
Just because some have titles and some do not, does not make them any less a member of the royal family.
The same for HRH Prince Philip, he was born a Greek prince, to the son of a Greek king...just because he denounced his title and line to the throne of Greece to become a citizen of Britain, does not make him any less royal.
The definition of "Royal Family" is the Queen, Prince Philip, their four children, and William and Harry. Everyone else is still part of the royal family and is considered the lesser royals or junior members. The descriptions may be a little ambiguous in that respect.
Now, with that said, seeing as though you claim to be by your choice of words the expert here, I will let you know I respect your views and insight. They are well thought out.
But, I doubt there are many on here that knows personally the men and women in all the forums.
It is one thing to study, read, listen to the gossip, read the official websites, and it is quite another to know and grow up with these people.
Thank you.