‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her life
The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal.
After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children’s hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert.
“This is the woman who was the commoner who married into the royal family and who has not tripped up, not caused any embarrassment,’’ Katie Nicholl, author of “Kate: The Future Queen.” “It’s not been an easy year, and yet somehow Kate seems to be a bit of a beacon in all of this.’’
At a moment when the House of Windsor is facing more than its share of controversy, Prince William’s spouse has won accolades for her commitment to early education, art and music. The charities she supports gush about her willingness to get personally involved in their causes.
The daughter of a flight attendant and a flight dispatcher, Catherine Elizabeth Middleton was born in Reading, England, on Jan. 9, 1982, and grew up with a younger sister, Pippa, and a younger brother, James.
It was at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland that Kate first met Prince William, the elder son of the late Princess Diana and second in line to inherit the British throne after his father, Prince Charles.
Full story below, plus a look back at the royal wedding 10 years ago.
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeAaron Chown
Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge arrive for a visit to the vaccination center at Westminster Abbey, London, Tuesday, March 23, 2021 to pay tribute to the efforts of those involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. The U.K. is marking a national day of reflection Tuesday a year after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the country would go into lockdown to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)
Aaron ChownBritain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge arrive for a visit to the vaccination center at Westminster Abbey, London, Tuesday, March 23, 2021 to pay tribute to the efforts of those involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. The U.K. is marking a national day of reflection Tuesday a year after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the country would go into lockdown to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeAaron Chown
Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge with Dean of Westminster The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, right, and Paul Baumann, Receiver General and Chapter Clerk arrive for a visit to the vaccination center at Westminster Abbey, London, Tuesday, March 23, 2021 to pay tribute to the efforts of those involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. The U.K. is marking a national day of reflection Tuesday a year after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the country would go into lockdown to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)
Aaron ChownBritain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge with Dean of Westminster The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, right, and Paul Baumann, Receiver General and Chapter Clerk arrive for a visit to the vaccination center at Westminster Abbey, London, Tuesday, March 23, 2021 to pay tribute to the efforts of those involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. The U.K. is marking a national day of reflection Tuesday a year after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the country would go into lockdown to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeAaron Chown
Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge speaks to staff during a visit to the vaccination center at Westminster Abbey, London, Tuesday, March 23, 2021 to pay tribute to the efforts of those involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. The U.K. is marking a national day of reflection Tuesday a year after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the country would go into lockdown to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)
Aaron ChownBritain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge speaks to staff during a visit to the vaccination center at Westminster Abbey, London, Tuesday, March 23, 2021 to pay tribute to the efforts of those involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. The U.K. is marking a national day of reflection Tuesday a year after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the country would go into lockdown to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeChris Jackson
Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge reacts, during a meeting with fishermen and their families in Fife to hear about the work of fishing communities on the East Coast of Scotland, Wednesday May 26, 2021. (Chris Jackson/PA via AP)
Chris JacksonBritain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge reacts, during a meeting with fishermen and their families in Fife to hear about the work of fishing communities on the East Coast of Scotland, Wednesday May 26, 2021. (Chris Jackson/PA via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeAaron Chown
Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, left, and US First Lady Jill Biden laugh during a visit to Connor Downs Academy in Hayle, West Cornwall, during the G7 summit in England, Friday, June 11, 2021. (Aaron Chown/Pool photo via AP)
Aaron ChownBritain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, left, and US First Lady Jill Biden laugh during a visit to Connor Downs Academy in Hayle, West Cornwall, during the G7 summit in England, Friday, June 11, 2021. (Aaron Chown/Pool photo via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeJonathan Brady
Britain's Kate, The Duchess of Cambridge, speaks to Ed Sheeran, center, and Gregory Porter after the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall, in London, Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. (Jonathan Brady/Pool Photo via AP)
Jonathan BradyBritain's Kate, The Duchess of Cambridge, speaks to Ed Sheeran, center, and Gregory Porter after the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall, in London, Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. (Jonathan Brady/Pool Photo via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeJonathan Brady
Britain's Prince William and Kate, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, are seen after watching the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall, in London, Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. (Jonathan Brady/Pool Photo via AP)
Jonathan BradyBritain's Prince William and Kate, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, are seen after watching the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall, in London, Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. (Jonathan Brady/Pool Photo via AP)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeGeoff Pugh
FILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge visits the Urban Nature Project at the Natural History Museum, in London, June 22, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Geoff Pugh/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Geoff PughFILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge visits the Urban Nature Project at the Natural History Museum, in London, June 22, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Geoff Pugh/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeVictoria Jones
FILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge attends the Anzac Day Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, in London, April 25, 2019. Anzac Day has been commemorated in London since the first anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli in 1916, when King George V attended a service at Westminster Abbey and more than 2,000 Australian and New Zealand troops marched through the streets. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Victoria Jones/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Victoria JonesFILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge attends the Anzac Day Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, in London, April 25, 2019. Anzac Day has been commemorated in London since the first anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli in 1916, when King George V attended a service at Westminster Abbey and more than 2,000 Australian and New Zealand troops marched through the streets. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Victoria Jones/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeMichael Dunlea
FILE - The girlfriends of Britain's Prince William, Kate Middleton, leaves after attending their university graduation ceremony at St. Andrews University in St. Andrews, Scotland, June 23, 2005. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Michael Dunlea/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Michael DunleaFILE - The girlfriends of Britain's Prince William, Kate Middleton, leaves after attending their university graduation ceremony at St. Andrews University in St. Andrews, Scotland, June 23, 2005. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Michael Dunlea/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeMichael Dunlea
FILE - Britain's Prince William and his girlfriend Kate Middleton walk together at RAF Cranwell, England, April 11, 2008, after William received his RAF wings from his father, Prince Charles. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Michael Dunlea, Pool, File)
Michael DunleaFILE - Britain's Prince William and his girlfriend Kate Middleton walk together at RAF Cranwell, England, April 11, 2008, after William received his RAF wings from his father, Prince Charles. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Michael Dunlea, Pool, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeBen Curtis
FILE - Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, left, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex speak as they sit in the Royal Box on Centre Court to watch the women's singles final match between Serena Williams of the United States and Romania's Simona Halep on day twelve of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, July 13, 2019. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis, File)
Ben CurtisFILE - Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, left, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex speak as they sit in the Royal Box on Centre Court to watch the women's singles final match between Serena Williams of the United States and Romania's Simona Halep on day twelve of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, July 13, 2019. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeJeremy Selwyn
FILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge reacts as she plays tennis with US Open Champion Emma Raducanu during an event hosted by the LTA Youth programme, at the National Tennis Centre in London, Sept. 24, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Jeremy Selwyn/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Jeremy SelwynFILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge reacts as she plays tennis with US Open Champion Emma Raducanu during an event hosted by the LTA Youth programme, at the National Tennis Centre in London, Sept. 24, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Jeremy Selwyn/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeChris Jackson
FILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge arrives for the World premiere of the new film from the James Bond franchise 'No Time To Die', in London, Sept. 28, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Chris Jackson/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Chris JacksonFILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge arrives for the World premiere of the new film from the James Bond franchise 'No Time To Die', in London, Sept. 28, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Chris Jackson/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeScott Garfitt
FILE - Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge poses for photographers at The Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony, in London, Oct. 17, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Scott Garfitt, File)
Scott GarfittFILE - Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge poses for photographers at The Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony, in London, Oct. 17, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Scott Garfitt, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeMartin Meissner
FILE - Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge stand outside Westminster Abbey after their Royal Wedding in London, April 29, 2011. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)
Martin MeissnerFILE - Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge stand outside Westminster Abbey after their Royal Wedding in London, April 29, 2011. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeVictoria Jones
FILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge and United States Secretary of the Treasury, Steven Mnuchin arrive through the East Gallery ahead of the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace in London, June 3, 2019. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Victoria Jones/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Victoria JonesFILE - Britain's Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge and United States Secretary of the Treasury, Steven Mnuchin arrive through the East Gallery ahead of the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace in London, June 3, 2019. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Victoria Jones/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeAaron Chown
FILE - Britain's Prince William and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge and their children, Prince Louis, left, Princess Charlotte and Prince George arrive for a special pantomime performance at London's Palladium Theatre, Dec. 11, 2020, hosted by The National Lottery, to thank key workers and their families for their efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Aaron Chown/Pool via AP, File)
Aaron ChownFILE - Britain's Prince William and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge and their children, Prince Louis, left, Princess Charlotte and Prince George arrive for a special pantomime performance at London's Palladium Theatre, Dec. 11, 2020, hosted by The National Lottery, to thank key workers and their families for their efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Aaron Chown/Pool via AP, File)
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‘Reliable royal’ Kate Middleton turns 40 today. Here’s a look at her lifeOli Scarff
FILE - Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, center, and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, left, react as the Queen prepares to cut a cake as they attend an event in celebration of 'The Big Lunch 'initiative, during the G7 summit in Cornwall, England, June 11, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Oli Scarff/Pool Photo via AP, File)
Oli ScarffFILE - Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, center, and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, left, react as the Queen prepares to cut a cake as they attend an event in celebration of 'The Big Lunch 'initiative, during the G7 summit in Cornwall, England, June 11, 2021. The Duchess of Cambridge, who turns 40 on Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, has emerged as Britain’s reliable royal. After Prince Harry and Meghan’s stormy departure to California in 2020, the death of Prince Philip last year, and now sex abuse allegations against Prince Andrew, the former Kate Middleton remains in the public eye as the smiling mother of three who can comfort grieving parents at a children's hospice or wow the nation by playing piano during a televised Christmas concert. (Oli Scarff/Pool Photo via AP, File)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardOli Scarff
A general view of the Mall and Victoria Memorial filled with well-wishers celebrating the Royal Wedding of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge on April 29, 2011 in London. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
Oli ScarffA general view of the Mall and Victoria Memorial filled with well-wishers celebrating the Royal Wedding of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge on April 29, 2011 in London. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardPaul Rogers
The bridesmaids and page boys arrive at Westminster Abbey for the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Paul Rogers, Pool)
Paul RogersThe bridesmaids and page boys arrive at Westminster Abbey for the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Paul Rogers, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardPaul Rogers
Kate's sister Pippa Middleton arrives with the brides maids and page boys for the Royal Wedding at Westminster Abby on Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Paul Rogers, Pool)
Paul RogersKate's sister Pippa Middleton arrives with the brides maids and page boys for the Royal Wedding at Westminster Abby on Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Paul Rogers, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardAlastair Grant
Britain's Prince William, left, and his best man Britain's Prince Harry arrive at Westminster Abbey at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
Alastair GrantBritain's Prince William, left, and his best man Britain's Prince Harry arrive at Westminster Abbey at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMartin Meissner
Kate Middleton waves as she arrives at Westminster Abbey at the Royal Wedding with Britain's Prince William in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
Martin MeissnerKate Middleton waves as she arrives at Westminster Abbey at the Royal Wedding with Britain's Prince William in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardTom Pilston
Kate Middleton enters Westminster Abbey on the arm of her Father for her wedding to Prince William in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Tom Pilston, Pool)
Tom PilstonKate Middleton enters Westminster Abbey on the arm of her Father for her wedding to Prince William in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Tom Pilston, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardANDREW WINNING
Britain's Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, leave the 1902 State Landau as they arrive at Buckingham Palace, after their wedding in Westminster Abbey, in central London April 29, 2011. Prince William married his fiancee, Kate Middleton, in Westminster Abbey on Friday.(AP Photo/ANDREW WINNING, Pool)
ANDREW WINNINGBritain's Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, leave the 1902 State Landau as they arrive at Buckingham Palace, after their wedding in Westminster Abbey, in central London April 29, 2011. Prince William married his fiancee, Kate Middleton, in Westminster Abbey on Friday.(AP Photo/ANDREW WINNING, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardAndrew Milligan
Kate Middleton walks up the aisle on the arm of her father Michael Middleton at Westminster Abbey, central London, for her marriage to Britain's Prince William, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
Andrew MilliganKate Middleton walks up the aisle on the arm of her father Michael Middleton at Westminster Abbey, central London, for her marriage to Britain's Prince William, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardDominic Lipinski
Prince William greets Kate Middleton as she arrives at the alter with her father Michael Middleton, prior to their marriage in London's Westminster Abbey, Friday April 29 2011.(AP Photo/ Dominic Lipinski, pool)
Dominic LipinskiPrince William greets Kate Middleton as she arrives at the alter with her father Michael Middleton, prior to their marriage in London's Westminster Abbey, Friday April 29 2011.(AP Photo/ Dominic Lipinski, pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardDave Thompson
Kate Middleton and and Britain's Prince William hold hands during the wedding service at Westminster Abbey, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams, London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson, Pool)
Dave ThompsonKate Middleton and and Britain's Prince William hold hands during the wedding service at Westminster Abbey, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams, London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardAndrew Milligan
(left- right) Prince Harry, Prince William, Kate Middleton and Michael Middleton during the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey, London on Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
Andrew Milligan(left- right) Prince Harry, Prince William, Kate Middleton and Michael Middleton during the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey, London on Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardDave Thompson
Prince William places a wedding ring on the finger of his bride Kate, at Westminster Abbey, London on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson, Pool)
Dave ThompsonPrince William places a wedding ring on the finger of his bride Kate, at Westminster Abbey, London on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardAndrew Milligan
Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton exchange rings during their wedding service at Westminster Abbey, in London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
Andrew MilliganBritain's Prince William and Kate Middleton exchange rings during their wedding service at Westminster Abbey, in London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardClara Molden
Mcc0031201. The Daily Telegraph. NPA ROTA. General view of guests singing inside Westminster Abbey, in London, UK, during the wedding ceremony of His Royal Highness Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Picture date: Friday April 29, 2011. Photograph by Clara Molden / The Daily Telegraph / NPA ROTAon Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Clara Molden, Pool)
Clara MoldenMcc0031201. The Daily Telegraph. NPA ROTA. General view of guests singing inside Westminster Abbey, in London, UK, during the wedding ceremony of His Royal Highness Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Picture date: Friday April 29, 2011. Photograph by Clara Molden / The Daily Telegraph / NPA ROTAon Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Clara Molden, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardRICHARD POHLE
Prince William and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, walk down the aisle at Westminster Abbey following their marriage in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/RICHARD POHLE, Pool)
RICHARD POHLEPrince William and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, walk down the aisle at Westminster Abbey following their marriage in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/RICHARD POHLE, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardAndrew Milligan
Prince William and his new bride Kate leave Westminster Abbey after their wedding on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
Andrew MilliganPrince William and his new bride Kate leave Westminster Abbey after their wedding on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Andrew Milligan, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardADRIAN DENNIS
Britain's Prince William and his fiancee Kate Middleton walk up the aisle of Westminster Abbey in London during their wedding ceremony, on April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/ADRIAN DENNIS, Pool)
ADRIAN DENNISBritain's Prince William and his fiancee Kate Middleton walk up the aisle of Westminster Abbey in London during their wedding ceremony, on April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/ADRIAN DENNIS, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardSUZANNE PLUNKETT
Britain's Prince William and his wife, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, leave Westminster Abbey after their wedding ceremony in central London Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Suzanne Plunkett, Pool)
SUZANNE PLUNKETTBritain's Prince William and his wife, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, leave Westminster Abbey after their wedding ceremony in central London Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Suzanne Plunkett, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMartin Meissner
Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge stand outside of Westminster Abbey after their Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
Martin MeissnerBritain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge stand outside of Westminster Abbey after their Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardAdrian Dennis
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, make their way out of Westminster Abbey in London, following the ceremony for the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge watched by guests including British musician Elton John and partner David Furnish, London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Adrian Dennis, Pool)
Adrian DennisBritain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, make their way out of Westminster Abbey in London, following the ceremony for the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge watched by guests including British musician Elton John and partner David Furnish, London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Adrian Dennis, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardJohn Stillwell
Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton, who has been given the title of The Duchess of Cambridge, wave to the crowd from the balcony of Buckingham Palace, London, following their wedding at Westminster Abbey on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/John Stillwell, Pool)
John StillwellPrince William and his wife Kate Middleton, who has been given the title of The Duchess of Cambridge, wave to the crowd from the balcony of Buckingham Palace, London, following their wedding at Westminster Abbey on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/John Stillwell, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardJohn Stillwell
RETRANSMITTED FOR BETTER QUALITY - BEST QUALITY AVAILABLE Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton, who has been given the title of The Duchess of Cambridge, kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, London, following their wedding at Westminster Abbey on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/John Stillwell, Pool)
John StillwellRETRANSMITTED FOR BETTER QUALITY - BEST QUALITY AVAILABLE Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton, who has been given the title of The Duchess of Cambridge, kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, London, following their wedding at Westminster Abbey on Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/John Stillwell, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMatt Dunham
Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace after the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
Matt DunhamBritain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace after the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMatt Dunham
Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace after the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
Matt DunhamBritain's Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace after the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMartin Meissner
From left, Prince Phillip, Carole Middleton, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall stand outside of Westminster Abbey after the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
Martin MeissnerFrom left, Prince Phillip, Carole Middleton, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall stand outside of Westminster Abbey after the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardDIMITAR DILKOFF
Britain's Prince William and wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wave as they travel in the 1902 State Landau carriage along the Processional Route to Buckingham Palace, in London on April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/DIMITAR DILKOFF, Pool)
DIMITAR DILKOFFBritain's Prince William and wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wave as they travel in the 1902 State Landau carriage along the Processional Route to Buckingham Palace, in London on April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/DIMITAR DILKOFF, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardOli Scarff
Their Royal Highnesses Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, journey by carriage procession to Buckingham Palace following their marriage at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
Oli ScarffTheir Royal Highnesses Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, journey by carriage procession to Buckingham Palace following their marriage at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardOli Scarff
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, approach by carriage procession Buckingham Palace following their marriage at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London. The marriage of the second in line to the British throne was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and was attended by 1900 guests, including foreign Royal family members and heads of state. Thousands of well-wishers from around the world have also flocked to London to witness the spectacle and pageantry of the Royal Wedding. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
Oli ScarffPrince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, approach by carriage procession Buckingham Palace following their marriage at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London. The marriage of the second in line to the British throne was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and was attended by 1900 guests, including foreign Royal family members and heads of state. Thousands of well-wishers from around the world have also flocked to London to witness the spectacle and pageantry of the Royal Wedding. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardJonathan Short
Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge pass the Queen Victoria Memorial at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Jonathan Short)
Jonathan ShortBritain's Prince William and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge pass the Queen Victoria Memorial at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Jonathan Short)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardBogdan Maran
at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Bogdan Maran)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardPAUL HACKETT
Crowds of people walk towards Buckingham palace after the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/PAUL HACKETT, Pool)
PAUL HACKETTCrowds of people walk towards Buckingham palace after the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/PAUL HACKETT, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardOli Scarff
Well wishers surge along the Mall behind the police towards Buckingham Palace to celebrate the Royal Wedding of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
Oli ScarffWell wishers surge along the Mall behind the police towards Buckingham Palace to celebrate the Royal Wedding of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardRLC,Sergeant Dan Harmer
More than 1,300 personnel from across the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force played a key role in the ceremonial elements of the Royal Wedding today, Friday, April 29, 2011. Their roles included Guard duties, lining the ceremonial route, musical support through ceremonial bands, and a spectacular seven-aircraft fly past from the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and two Tornado and two Typhoon fast jets. (AP Photo/Sergeant Dan Harmer, RLC, Pool)
RLC,Sergeant Dan HarmerMore than 1,300 personnel from across the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force played a key role in the ceremonial elements of the Royal Wedding today, Friday, April 29, 2011. Their roles included Guard duties, lining the ceremonial route, musical support through ceremonial bands, and a spectacular seven-aircraft fly past from the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and two Tornado and two Typhoon fast jets. (AP Photo/Sergeant Dan Harmer, RLC, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardPaul Rogers
The Queen leaves the Abbey after the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Paul Rogers, Pool)
Paul RogersThe Queen leaves the Abbey after the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Paul Rogers, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardFiona Hanson
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, left, and her husband Prince Philip, right, leave Westminster Abbey following the wedding of Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, as they make their way along the procession route to Buckingham Palace, London, Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Fiona Hanson, Pool)
Fiona HansonBritain's Queen Elizabeth II, left, and her husband Prince Philip, right, leave Westminster Abbey following the wedding of Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, as they make their way along the procession route to Buckingham Palace, London, Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Fiona Hanson, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMartin Meissner
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, left, and Britain's Prince Charles leave Westminster Abbey after the wedding service at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
Martin MeissnerCamilla, Duchess of Cornwall, left, and Britain's Prince Charles leave Westminster Abbey after the wedding service at the Royal Wedding in London Friday, April, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardPAUL HACKETT
The Queen's Guard march before the marriage of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London on Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/PAUL HACKETT, Pool)
PAUL HACKETTThe Queen's Guard march before the marriage of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in central London on Friday, April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/PAUL HACKETT, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardOli Scarff
A general view of the Mall and around the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace in central London, filled with well-wishers celebrating the royal wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge at Westminster Abbey Friday, April 29, 2011. Thousands of well-wishers from around the world have flocked to London to witness the spectacle and pageantry of the royal wedding. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
Oli ScarffA general view of the Mall and around the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace in central London, filled with well-wishers celebrating the royal wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge at Westminster Abbey Friday, April 29, 2011. Thousands of well-wishers from around the world have flocked to London to witness the spectacle and pageantry of the royal wedding. (AP Photo/Oli Scarff, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardJohn Stillwell
A small section of the eight tiered wedding cake with the initials W & C, made by Fiona Cairns and her team, awaits the newly weds Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, in the Picture Gallery of Buckingham Palace in central London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/John Stillwell, Pool)
John StillwellA small section of the eight tiered wedding cake with the initials W & C, made by Fiona Cairns and her team, awaits the newly weds Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, in the Picture Gallery of Buckingham Palace in central London, Friday April 29, 2011. (AP Photo/John Stillwell, Pool)
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William and Kate have shared their family Christmas cardMAX NASH
Britain's Prince William stick his tongue out, as his wife Ket, Duchess of Cambridge, waves, as they drive from Buckingham Palace to Clarence House in a vintage Aston Martin Volante sports car, following their wedding at London's Westminster Cathedral Friday April 29, 2011.(AP Photo/Max Nash, pool)
MAX NASHBritain's Prince William stick his tongue out, as his wife Ket, Duchess of Cambridge, waves, as they drive from Buckingham Palace to Clarence House in a vintage Aston Martin Volante sports car, following their wedding at London's Westminster Cathedral Friday April 29, 2011.(AP Photo/Max Nash, pool)
