Monday, January 9, 2012

Britain's Duchess Of Cambridge, Kate Middleton Turns 30


katemiddleton30birthday.jpg

By: Colin Clarke
Updated: January 9, 2012
   It's been a whirlwind year for one of the newest members of Britain's royal families, and today promises even more activity as Kate Middleton celebrates her 30th birthday.
   Earlier rumored to be throwing an 80s-themed party in celebration of her big day, palace sources now tell "Us Weekly" that the Duchess of Cambridge will be ringing in her new year in less thematic fashion - privately with family and friends this evening.
   On Sunday night, the Duchess attended the London premiere of Steven Spielberg's new movie "War Horse" with husband Prince William as part of a benefit event.
   Fans reportedly shouted "Happy Birthday" as Kate strolled the red carpet.
   
   Spielberg, who was also on hand for the "War Horse" premiere told BBC Breakfast on Monday he witnessed the Duchess getting emotional during his movie.
   The director says he didn't want to intrude on her experience watching "War Horse," but noticed through his peripheral vision that "her eyes were dabbed."  
   The following is a biographical sketch of Britain's Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton:
   While her future Prince Charming was growing up in the public eye, Kate Middleton was coming of age with far less fan fare or public interest.
   The eldest of three children, Catherine Elizabeth Middleton was born on January 9th, 1982 in Reading, Berkshire England.
   Unlike the majority of royal brides before her, Kate's upbringing could hardly be described as royal or aristocratic.
   Her mother Carole, a former flight attendant, comes from a long line of laborers and coal miners.
   Her father, Michael, was a former dispatcher for British Airways.
   The Middletons went on to create a successful party supply company, and two younger siblings for Kate with sister Pippa close behind and brother James a few years later.
   Kate graduated with honors from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland in 2005 with a degree in art history.
   St. Andrews is also where Kate met Prince William during their first year at the university.
   It was the beginning of what would be a longstanding relationship that included shared living quarters and a brief breakup in 2007.
   After graduation, Kate worked as a buyer in the retail industry and has emerged as somewhat of a fashion icon.
   Much like William's mother, the late Princess Diana, did in her day, Kate has appeared on several best-dressed lists in recent years, and continues to win the public's praise for her relatable personality.
   Her marriage to Prince William last year has been dubbed the "wedding of the century."  The couple exchanged vows at London's Westminster Abbey on April 29th, 2011 and has hardly been out of the public eye since.
   The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made their first official trip as royal husband and wife in July with a royal tour of Canada followed by a three-day visit to Southern California.
   
   Middleton's days are now filled with official appearances and new roles as wife of Britain's future king.
   Gone are the days of bargain shopping in London with mom, and spontaneous ski trips and Caribbean vacations with friends  --  at least not without royal escorts.
   She will also have to account for her every move in travel and business as the newest member of the royal family.

   (Copyright 2012 by VERTEXNews/Newsroom Solutions)