It looks like Queen Elizabeth and the other royals will have to leave the comfort of their homes if they have any intention of seeing the royal couple and their children this Christmas. Kate Middleton and Prince William are planning another Christmas at Anmer Hall and seem intent on celebrating this time of year their way.
The duke and duchess are reportedly planning to attend Christmas mass with the royal family, but will then retreat back to their Norfolk home to eat, drink, and be merry with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and several members of Kate's family, including sister Pippa, brother James, and Carole and Michael Middleton.
The couple has preferred celebrating the holiday at Anmer Hall since George's birth because it's a lot easier for them to stay home during a hectic time of year, rather than travel to Queen E's Sandringham House for the festivities. As anyone with children can understand, it's kind of a pain to have to move nap times around and haul tons of gifts to and from a destination. I think it's only reasonable that the royals accept that Kate and Will want to be in the comfort of their own home on Christmas day — at least for a few years.
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William has admitted that having a family during Christmas is a "very different experience." This is the first year that his 2-year-old son is aware of all of the excitement surrounding the holiday, and Will says he'll be lucky if he can get any sleep at all on Christmas Eve because "George will be bouncing around like a rabbit."
Now, let's remember that, in addition to caring for George and Charlotte and getting their toddler to bed on the most exciting night of the year, Will and Kate probably have to put toys together and ensure Kate's family is taken care of during the holidays. It's an exhausting few days for parents -- no wonder they want to keep things casual and comfortable.
No word yet on whether the queen, Prince Charles, and Harry will join Kate and William at Anmer Hall. If I were them, I'd certainly want in on that action -- a party with the Middletons sounds like a lot of fun!
Image via Splash News