I just finished watching the last half of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant on the Thames, billed as the biggest event of its kind in 350 years. BBC America can actually air something other than “Top Gear” and “Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares“–amazing! In spite of considerable rain–well, it IS England, after all–everyone soldiered on and made the best of it (again, it IS England).
A total of 1,000 vessels took part in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant on the Thames this morning.
Rain drops fogged some of the camera lenses and there were occasional glitches in transmission, with audio disappearing and images breaking up. A planned flyover had to be cancelled.
Nonetheless, it was an impressive event, with all those boats, ships and barges participating in the parade, throngs looking on from the banks. And most people seemed to be having a good time of it in spite of the chilly, wet weather. The singers atop the vessel carrying the London Philharmonic Orchestra looked like drowned rats in black but they were still smiling and singing “Land of Hope & Glory” with great gusto. And the Queen seemed to be enjoying it all, her only concession to the bleak weather a wrap she eventually put on. All the royals looked very spiffy, including the honoree.
Prince Harry, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William look resplendent for the occasion.
Queen Elizabeth waves from the royal barge.
(all photos courtesy of the Guardian UK)
Queen Elizabeth is 86, just a little younger than my mother would be if she was still alive. I believe she stood through the entire event. I am 35 years her junior, and I don’t think I could have managed that feat. My hat is off to you, my dear lady.
I look at her white permed curls and think of my mother’s crowning glory. I study her black handbag and wonder–what does a Queen carry in her purse? Pictures of her grandchildren? Tissues or a handkerchief in the event of a sniffle? Lipstick in a suitably demure shade and a compact?Breath mints? After all, she has to meet so many people and it wouldn’t do for a monarch to have halitosis.
Seriously, I admire the queen. She’s weathered a lot in her 60-year reign. She’s the only monarch I and many others have known on the British throne. Her mother lived a very long life and she may very well do the same. And Queen Elizabeth doesn’t seem to be ready to step down any time soon. After all, it’s good being Queen.
I wish her all the best.
