The Duchess of York opens her photo album and writes exclusively for Woman’s Day as Princess Beatrice turns 21 this week.
“I felt very clearly this overwhelming love the minute Beatrice was placed in my arms — such joy to hold this incredible, beautiful being.
Beatrice was born on the 8th of the 8th in 1988 at 18 minutes past eight. They say eight is the luckiest number. I believe I am the luckiest mother.
Like any first-time mum, I wondered what the world would have in store for her.
I had all of the hopes and fears of any new mum. I am so proud of Beatrice. I believe she is an example to all young women in the world.
From very early on it was clear who Beatrice was — so inquisitive and engaging, even as a baby, Beatrice stood for good. Her sense of duty to the universe, to make a difference, to stand for discipline, dedication and commitment to her core values, these things were evident even as a young child — and it was so wonderful to see these qualities in a child.
Beatrice is steadfast to what she believes to be good. I am truly blessed Beatrice chose me to be her mother. We must not forget Beatrice also has my sense of humour and fun, and all throughout her life we have laughed a lot. We also play a lot and we work a lot.
I am very proud of Beatrice, and my only wish for her is to continue to follow her heart. Prince Andrew and I believe in co-parenting, and never bringing our problems to our girls. Both Beatrice and Eugenie have been brought up with many principles, and three of my core values are the three Cs — communication, compromise and compassion — on all levels of life.”
For more photos see this week’s Woman’s Day, on sale Aug 03, 2009.
Budget meal planner: Spicy chicken with fried parsley rice for $9.30
Reader recipe: Cherry chews by Erin Richardson, Mt Warren Park, Qld.
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