A Celebration of the Queen
Join all of us at SaaCA in celebration of the Queen today!
This special September, we are all thinking of HOME…what does it mean? It’s been said our Home is our Castle. We all live in our own castles…different, though they may be. As we join the world in celebrating the dignity, devotion, grace and humor of the exceptional, dutiful life of Queen Elizabeth II, home and its meaning are on our minds. Homeland… Home…what does it mean to us, where ever it may be.
As we join the world in celebrating the dignity, devotion, grace and humor of the exceptional, dutiful life of Queen Elizabeth II, home and its meaning are on our minds. Homeland… Home…what does it mean to us, where ever it may be.
The Summary
Join Marlene in a celebration of the Queen today
From the Queen's home to her favorite things, Marlene urges us to reflect on what "home" really means
A Celebration of the Queen
1. A Celebration of the Queen
It is said, Queen Elizabeth’s Balmoral Castle in Scotland was her refuge and happy place.
This privately owned residence since1848, inherited through her family, gave her great joy. It was a personal sanctuary – sustaining her, as the longest ruling monarch in history.
We all need such a place.
A place to recharge, reimagine, rethink and enjoy personal-private time. A place to call home.
My Saturday post this past June 11, 2022, A Very British Tribute – paid tribute to the Queen, her Silver Jubilee and all things British. I enjoy revisiting it, at this sad time of her passing, yet celebrating her incredible life. You may too. A Very British Tribute (styleatacertainage.com)
We all can learn many things from this remarkable woman who has lived through, and weathered so much in her 96 years.
It seems appropriate and a bit of fun to share some of her “favourite things.” Some of them are simple, making us smile and endearing her to us now, especially, as we celebrate her long life!
2. The Queen's Favorite Things
Her wakeup call, "Pipe Major" was assigned to play for Queen Elizabeth II at all of her residences: Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Balmoral and Holyrood house, every morning at 9 am for 15 minutes with a one-minute break. Maybe this accounts for a bit of her renowned humor that got her through life!
Her great passions for her some 30 Corgis during her reign and Horse breeding, riding and racing are well known. She loved the spotlight to be on them! In 2013, sporting history was made when the Queen became the first reigning monarch to win Royal Ascot's Gold Cup!
The Complete Collection - Original UK Edition [DVD] (Amazon) | James Bond Ultimate Collector's Set [DVD] (Amazon)
We all know the Brits have humor… PBS has certainly shared it!! Downtown Abbey and early James Bond Films are said to be some the Queen’s film favorites.
Several James Bond actors are now “Sir” - knighted by the Queen! Veteran James Bond actor Sean Connery was knighted in Scotland in 2000, Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan in 2003, Daniel Craig in 2022.
The British monarch was often seen in silk head scarves from Burberry to Hermes, sometimes horseback riding (into her 90’s), driving a Range Rover or Jaguar, no license required.
For official duties, she dressed mainly in bright colors, including neon, yellow, orange, lemon, fuchsia and lime green with coordinating hats, one of her signature brooches, often with gloves and handbag too!
Essie’s Ballet Slippers was the Queen’s favorite nail polish for 30 years and Clarins cosmetics have been enjoyed since commissioning the company to create a shade of lipstick to coordinate with her coronation robes!
3. A Toast to Her Majesty
Earl Grey was the Queen's tea of choice, yet sometimes enjoyed Darjeeling or Assam. Her favorite brand was Twinings & Co., that has enjoyed a Royal Warrant since Queen Victoria’s reign (1819-1901).
Twinings of London Earl Grey Loose Tea Tins (Amazon) | Twinings of London Darjeeling Tea Bags (Amazon) | Twinings Assam Strong and Malty, 80 Tea Bags (Amazon)
Her favorite sweet was a no bake chocolate biscuit treat called a Tiffin. What fun! Seems it was the only cake she requested often and was kept for “leftovers!” She loved her chocolate!!
The Queen's Cocktail: A Gin & Dubonnet (recipe)
- Add ice, two parts Dubonnet, one-part dry gin—Gordon's
- Add a slice of lemon to a cocktail shaker.
The Queen’s Jewels are historic marvels. The color Blue and Sapphires have been lifelong passions. “Her ‘beloved Papa’, who noticed the cornflower blue gemstones - said to signify love, purity and wisdom - matched the colour of his daughter’s eyes.” Blue Sapphire is September’s birthstone and month of her passing at Balmoral Castle, Scotland, September 8, 2022.
So, this September, let’s celebrate the life of Elizabeth Alexandra Mary; born 21 April 1926,
17 Bruton Street in Mayfair, and raise a glass to this exceptional woman and monarch to be cherished forever!
Her deep, enduring, love of duty, country, her subjects, family and the world will be sorely missed by many – now and always.
Loving cheers ~ xoxo MMK
In Case You Missed It
Yesterday, I showed you a variety of different dresses, and additionally, different ways to style each. Click the title or image below to read the article.
What a beautiful post and tribute! Truly the end of an era. Like everyone else, thought she’d live forever. Toasted her memory the other night with her favorite cocktail: Dubonnet & Gin. Cheers to a life of duty and love of country.
Thank you, Kim. Happy you enjoyed and are toasting her memory and life with one of her favorites! We can imagine her smiling over such a tribute! xoxo MMK
Marlene, what a beautiful and detailed tribute. It’s always amazing when someone from “overseas” shares in the love and deep respect we have for our late Queen. She was a remarkable lady in every sense of the word. I was also so impressed when Beth made her own such kind comments a few days ago – both you ladies touch the hearts of us Brits at this very sad time. Thank you.
Thank you, Frances. She united many – the world over! A role model for the ages….xoxo MMK
Marlene, your tribute is absolutely lovely. Most of us have not lived a day without Queen Elizabeth in our life. Have read countless articles and posts about her since her passing, but must say yours is the most beautiful of all…as was Queen Elizabeth. Thank you from a grateful reader.
Dear Sylvia,
Your words are most touching…thank you.
Her life was truly inspirational.
The UK and the Queen are very dear to me.
xoxo MMK
An incredible post, Marlene! Down to her favorite nail polish color and brand of tea! I adore all the photos of her in her signature colorful suits/hats that you posted as well as the “through the years” silhouettes at the beginning. Thanks for this.
Hi Carolina Girl –
Delighted you enjoyed my heartfelt post with a bit of lighthearted whimsey! She was a dear…and I was happy to share some of my favorite photos with you!! xoxo Thank you! Marlene