Much has been said this past week about the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. The grace, dignity, and constancy of the Queen has been repeated many times. I do not know a time without the Queen as she has been the monarch for my entire life and that of most others.
Being an American, I am watching the events of her funeral take place on TV. However, if I were there, I would be one in the queue to pay my respects because as so many have stated, she may not have been my Queen but she was THE QUEEN. A true leader who persevered, reassured, and rose above politics. A constant in a sea of turmoil and change. A shining beacon of grace and dignity in a world where it seems to be lacking everywhere. An example to so many across the planet.
I am also amazed at the British people for their outpouring of love and admiration for their Queen. To see national unity in this way is quite refreshing and inspiring. So, that’s what it looks like?
I am in awe of the pageantry and processionals. Rehearsed. Perfected. Honorable. It is something that the British should be proud of as it’s not seen in most countries, especially not mine.
Lastly, the relentless tributes that the Royal Family has paid to their mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother are heartfelt. To grieve with cameras watching your every move has to be difficult, especially for the newly crowned King Charles. Here’s hoping that he is able to fill the very big void that his mother has left behind. It seems though, he couldn’t have had a better teacher.
RIP Queen Elizabeth. You will be missed.
In honor of the Queen, let’s look at some of her favorite things:
Scotland
The Queen’s love of long walks in the Scottish countryside at Balmoral were said to be some of her favorites, usually with her dogs in tow. The Queen found calm and serenity here in the Scottish highlands and every morning, her wake-up call was bagpipes played by “Pipe Major” at 9:00 am.
Her Corgi’s and Horses
The Queen loved animals in general and has had over 30 dogs in her life, mostly Corgi’s. She was also a lover of horses and one of her horses even won Royal Ascot in 2013 (the first reigning monarch to win the Gold Cup). By the way, it has been reported that Prince Andrew will be taking and caring for the Queen’s dogs following her passing.
Earl Grey Tea and Chocolate Biscuit Cake
According to Royal Chef Darren McGrady, afternoon tea was likely the Queen’s favorite meal of the day. McGrady also went on to share the menu for Queen Elizabeth’s daily afternoon tea which included two types of sandwiches, scones, a small cake, and Earl Grey tea. McGrady said that Earl Grey tea and Chocolate Biscuit Cake were her favorite. The recipe for the cake can be found on Chef Darren McGrady’s website.
A Gin and Dubonnet Cocktail
The Queen would indulge in this cocktail before lunch. Her Majesty preferred a 2:1 ration of Dubonnet to gin, for a lower alcohol serve, along with a slice of lemon. If you make one, raise your glass and toast The Queen.
Sapphire Blues
Her beloved father noticed the cornflower blue gemstones, which represent love, purity, and wisdom, and said they matched his daughter’s eyes. She considered it her lucky color and often wore it to Royal Ascot.
Downton Abbey, Coronation Street, and early James Bond films
We have all heard about Her Majesty’s sense of humor and it was on full display during the Olympics when she and James Bond actor, Daniel Craig, filmed their famous video for the 20212 London Olympics. But apparently, the Queen also enjoyed early James Bond films as well as Downton Abbey and Coronation Street as well. It is said that she would sometimes point out discrepancies in the show since she was well versed in royal protocol, of course.
Jam Pennies
The Queen’s favorite snack, Jam Pennies (jam sandwiches), of which Royal Chef, Darren McGrady, states she ate every single day. Two slices of white bread, butter, and strawberry jam. Easy enough yet fit for a Queen.
Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia
Also known as the Royal Yacht Britannia, is the former royal yacht of the British monarchy. She was in service from 1954 until 1997. The yacht was retired in 1997. It was so beloved by the Queen that during the retirement ceremony, it was one of the only times that the Queen was noticed shedding a tear.
Her Pearl Necklace
Although her collection was vast, the Queen was rarely seen without her favorite three-strand pearl necklace, given to her by her beloved father, King George VI. Leslie Field, author of The Queen’s Jewels, stated “She wants to wear pearls every day as her mother and grandmother did before her. She wouldn’t wear a diamond necklace to go to a charity lunch – it is simply traditional that a lady would wear pearls during the day.”
