Christmas is a time when families come together to celebrate, but this year, like many others, the holiday season will be different due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Many people are unable to spend Christmas with their loved ones, and the same goes for Carol Middleton, who is finding a way to keep her family traditions alive despite the physical distance.
Ms. Middleton, who is the grandmother of four grandchildren, including Pippa’s son Arthur, understands the importance of staying connected during these challenging times.
She has decided to change up her traditional Christmas celebration by incorporating video calls.
Although they may not be able to gather in person, she believes it is crucial for her family to feel a sense of togetherness.
In previous years, Ms. Middleton would allow her grandchildren to help her decorate the Christmas tree.
However, this year, she plans to involve them through video calls.
She will ask them to decide which decoration should go where, although some rearrangements may be necessary later on.
Despite the limitations, she wants to ensure that her family still feels involved in the festivities.
The Queen herself is also facing a scaled-down Christmas celebration.
For the first time in 33 years, the Royal Family’s annual Christmas at Sandringham might not be possible due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip usually host members of the Firm at their Norfolk home.
However, with the current lockdown potentially being extended and the rule of six still in place, it seems increasingly unlikely that Christmas at Sandringham will proceed as usual.
Although an official decision regarding Christmas plans has not yet been made, royal sources suggest that it will be determined before the end of the second lockdown on December 2.
A spokesperson from Buckingham Palace stated that no final decision has been reached.
However, insiders have revealed that staff members are hesitant to quarantine away from their families, making it highly improbable for Christmas to take place at Sandringham.
There is a possibility of arranging a smaller celebration for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at Wood Farm Cottage.
However, considering that the Queen and Duke are already familiar with the bubble system in Windsor, it would be simpler to plan for them to stay there during Christmas.
This way, they can ensure their safety and maintain the established protocols.