Meghan Markle, during a recent appearance at the Godmothers Bookstore in Montecito, California, divulged details about her family's home rituals with Prince Harry and their children. The conversation took place with lifestyle blogger Courtney Adamo, who was there to promote her new book, "The Family Home: Inspiring Ideas For A Home Filled With Joy."
On Wednesday, the Duchess described how she starts her day by turning on music in their home to establish a positive atmosphere. She further revealed her practice of traveling with a portable speaker and a scented candle, which she associates with the comfort of home. This habit, she explained, is part of her commitment to creating a consistent, nurturing environment for her family, even when away from home.
Markle also shared a parenting technique called the "rose and thorn" ritual, a concept from Adamo's book. This practice encourages her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to express more than just "yes" or "no" when discussing their day, thus fostering open communication. She recounted a charming anecdote of her daughter describing her day as "just a blast" when asked about her "rose and thorn."
Another significant aspect of the Duchess's family life is the "healing blanket," a gift from bookstore co-founder Victoria Jackson. This special blanket is a source of comfort for the children during illnesses or difficult times.
The event also served as a reunion for Markle and Adamo, who first met at Northwestern University, where they were sorority sisters. They shared a poignant memory of a 30-hour road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago after a flight cancellation on September 11, 2001. Markle reflected on this experience as a profound moment that reinforced her appreciation for community and togetherness.
Post-event, Markle hosted attendees on the patio, offering Sauvignon Blanc from her wine line, As Ever. Her stories and personal reflections provided a glimpse into her parenting philosophy and her dedication to creating a joyful and intentional family environment.
The discussion underscored Markle's focus on mindfulness in parenting, as she highlighted the positive impact of these small, daily rituals. Her candid sharing resonated with attendees and fans, who appreciated the relatability and practicality of her techniques.
The event and subsequent reception offered an intimate look at the Duchess's life, as she blended lifestyle advice with her personal narrative. It appeared that while her friend Courtney Adamo was promoting her book, Markle's presence and anecdotes provided additional depth to the conversation around home and family.