Happy birthday to Princess Lilian of Sweden (95 on August 30th) and Queen Rania of Jordan (40 today).

Her brusque manner with the press is legendary, as is her characteristic bun.

Anne, The Princess Royal, is still the same straight-talking princess she has always been, even at age 60.

The second child of the Queen and Prince Philip was born August 15th, 1950. Anne’s claim to fame is her simple, no-nonsense approach to life and her hard work. Like her father, she has a disdainful approach to the press and shuns the limelight as often as possible. Anne simply dives in to her job, whether it’s traveling to Africa for her children’s charity or supporting her Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

The Queen’s strong sense of duty and thrift are also a large part of Anne’s makeup. Like the Queen, Anne never fussed about gowns or jewels, except when she was required to attend a formal royal event. Her true place was out in the country riding horses, attending to her dogs, or working on her schedule of royal duties.

When she married Captain Mark Phillips, a fellow equestrian, their children were not given titles. Anne’s reasoning was simple: it would keep them out of the limelight. As a princess, it was inevitable that Anne had to deal with the spotlight growing up, but she made sure that her children Peter and Zara would not feel any public pressure.

Anne’s natural grace on a horse has been passed on to her daughter Zara, who is currently training to join Britain’s Olympic team. Her son Peter and his wife are expecting their first child – Anne’s first grandchild and the Queen’s first great-grandchild – in December.

The princess’ family is happy, strong, and as down-to-earth as ever. I wish Her Royal Highness all the best for her birthday.

Recommended:

BBC Sport – The Princess Royal at 60
Anne at 60 – More Regal Than Mum?
Princess Anne Not Slowing Down

Crown Princess Maxima of Holland carries a fond reminder of her children: a fab photo tote with the images of Amalia, Alexia, and Ariane (arriving for the birthday celebrations of Queen Margrethe II of Denmark).

© Dutch Photo Press, Patrick van Katwijk

Twelve years ago today I started with some text and an engagement photo of Charles and Diana. The background was pink. Ah, memories!

As always, many grateful thanks to all who visit the website and this blog. Here’s to many more years of royal news and research!

Mandy
www.mandysroyalty.org

8th April 1970: Princess Margrethe

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