UK ROYAL WATCH/CELEB SIGHTINGS...

On the 31st of August, I "attended" the memorial service to mark the 10th year since Princess Diana's death. The ceremony was held at the Wellington Barracks Chapel, just a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace. There was some controversy prior -- as this site was where Camilla had been married (the 1st time). A week prior to the service, the public protested Camilla's intent to attend the memorial. Just a day or two prior, Camilla decided to jet off on a solo vacation. Even though Charles and the boys had asked her to come. (The morning of the service, Charles made his way up the chapel entrance steps and was harassed by a single onlooker who yelled "Hypocrite!". He didn't flinch.)

Controversy aside, the venue stuck -- most likely because of its privacy and security factors. Many bobbies and armed soldiers were present. The one entrance to allow cars through was fully manned. Every few minutes a jaguar, Bentley or rolles would pass through the gates. Each car was fully outfitted with passengers wearing fabulous headdresses -- frilly and feathered hats. Only the Queen's posh ride was clearly identifiable. Once Queen Elizabeth and Phillip had arrived, we ran down to face opposite the chapel's entrance -- just a short distance -- and found ourselves the best vantage point, although obstructed through the gate bars.
The service, which was quite touching, lasted about an hour. It was broadcast over loud speakers to the several hundred making up the crowd of royal watchers. The weather had been chilly and overcast during the entire service -- until just at the end, when the Lord's Prayer was recited, the clouds parted and the sun shone warm and brilliantly bright. Coincidence? I think not.

The Queen and Prince Regent exited the chapel first. The princes stayed on, greeting each guest. Lovely boys, Harry and Wills, so adorable and respectful -- impeccably attired in their smart suits. The entire royal family was in attendance: Edward and Sophie (wearing a tan tweed number with a matching hat), Princess Anne and hubby, Fergie's and Andrew's two daughters. No Fergie though, as far as I could tell. And no Kate Middleton either. Not certain also if Harry's gf was there either.

Gordon Brown, the new PM, and Tony Blair, the old one, exited -- wives in tow. Followed shortly thereafter by Bryan Adams, Elton John & David Furnish. Not long after, the Princes departed -- waving to the crowd of onlookers. We strolled down the Mall a bit, taking a left at Buckingham Palace and encountered Richard Branson and wife along the way, as well as a solo Bryan Adams, whom no one made a fuss over -- thought he was looking for attention. Tragic really. Branson on the other hand was getting the rock star treatment -- signing autographs and taking pictures. One fan shook his hand, to which a passerby remarked: You might want to scrub up. LOL. Guess in some circles Branson is not well liked.

The day progressed with little fanfare. The service was rebroadcast on TV and all anyone could talk about was Harry's heartfelt speech. Overall, a fitting, low-key and respectful tribute to a woman we lost far too soon.