Inside Kate Middleton’s 42nd birthday plans after a ‘tough year’ – with DIY card from George & being ‘spoiled’ by Wills
KATE Middleton will mark her 42nd birthday today with homemade gifts from her three children and a birthday cake courtesy of her mum Carole, we can reveal.
The Princess of Wales is expected to spend the day celebrating with husband Prince William, their children Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, Prince Louis, five, and the Middletons at her childhood home in Bucklebury, Berkshire.
There she will be showered with craft themed gifts from the children and will be made “a fuss of” and “spoiled” by William and her parents Carole and Michael Middleton.
Speaking exclusively to Fabulous about the princess’s celebrations, royal expert Jennie Bond said: “Luckily the children don’t go back to school until the 10th, so the family can celebrate the last day of the Christmas holidays and Catherine’s birthday at the same time.
“Last year her birthday coincided with all the publicity about Harry’s book, which was about to be published. This year things are looking much smoother for Catherine and her family.
"She has also weathered the storm of Omid Scobie’s book and I’m sure William and the children will want to spoil her with cards and special gifts.
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“There is no doubt that the Princess would value nothing more than some handcrafted presents from her children.
"Perhaps their granny, Carole, will help them make a birthday cake for her - after all, Catherine has always enjoyed helping the children learn to bake.
“I’m sure Catherine’s parents would love to make a fuss of their daughter and it may be that William will want to treat his wife to a romantic birthday dinner, but with school starting the next morning, they are more likely to spend the evening sorting out uniforms and school bags ready for the start of term!”
Kate's tough year
It has been a year of ups and downs for Kate since her last birthday.
She was accused of being cold towards her sister-in-law Meghan in Harry’s book Spare, and he further claimed she was “disgusted” when Meghan asked to use her lipgloss.
In his book, he also partially blamed Kate and his brother for his decision to wear the controversial Nazi uniform to a fancy dress party in 2005, claiming they both “howled” when they saw him.
And more recently, Kate was named along with King Charles as the two royals who allegedly questioned the tone of Prince Archie’s skin.
But Jennie says that Kate has dealt with all the accusations thrown at her with “class” - and believes this has come with age.
She said: “I think Catherine has embraced her 40s and is now more comfortable in her skin and in her role than ever before.
“Some women may find their 40s intimidating, but Catherine is successful, confident and popular. Her family is, we can presume, complete and she is dividing her time between her children and a big role on the world stage.
"And she is doing it with composure, dignity and a wonderful common touch. She has nailed being royal and yet still relatable.
“She is the shining star of a modern monarchy, and it’s no surprise that King Charles refers to her as his ‘beloved daughter in law’. I don’t think she will lose any sleep over the fact that she is going to be 42.”
Kate's dynamic year ahead
Jennie says that Kate will spend the next year continuing with her passion projects - such as her early years campaign - while keeping her children grounded at home.
“Her campaigns, particularly about early years development, are going from strength to strength,” Jennie says.
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“Her next focus is getting men more involved in that crucial part of a child’s life. I’m sure she is the main influence in ensuring that both she and William have a reasonable work/home life balance during their children’s formative years.
"They have withstood some criticism because of their stand on this but I, for one, applaud them for it.”
