Image via WikipediaThe process is remarkably analogue - there are no online forms or stuff, you give your details over the phone and then they arrange a search of the Register of Births, Weddings and Deaths, forward the data to the Palace, who send you a note confirming that yes, you do qualify for a message and also confirming the details.
Saturday morning the postman came with an extra duty - he has to announce that he has a message from the Palace (and, incidentally, the relevant Post Office has to confirm it will make delivery prior 9.30am on the day in question or an Inquiry would be mounted by the Palace. I kid you not.). Inside the blue covering envelope is a beige one with a crest printed across it. And inside that is a card with a photo of HM, together with a congratulatory message signed by Elizabeth R. And some gold tassels. The gold tassels are an important element. The back of the envelope, rather cutely, says 'If Undelivered, Return to Buckingham Palace'.
My mum was over the moon, dancing about all over the place and just generally as delighted as someone who has found a million pounds worth of Roman coins in their garden. Brenda was popped onto the centre of the fireplace - from where I have to tell you her eyes follow you around the room - and the story of the whole thing was generally dined out on over the subsequent festivities.
It's nice that something daft like that can make people so very happy. Nice one, Buck Palace!
13 comments:
I remember seeing your Twitpic and was wondering what that was about. Haha, nice one!! Very cool.
Hearty congratulations to your parents, delightful to read of your Mothers pleasure.
Congratulations to your Mum and Dad. And it is nice that some things still function analog. Enjoy your holiday!
Delightful! Congratulations to your parents!
Hope they qualify for another Queen's note! Lovely story.
A thousand mabrouks to your parents... it's like a fairytale. I wish them many more years of happiness and hope to read about the next missive they get from Buck Palace. Thanks for sharing :-))
Awww isn't that rosy! Mabrook to your parents buddy - I am sure it was a fantabulous time and here's to 60 more years!
Heaps of congrats to your mum & dad! I think its wonderful that there are still couples 'out there' who stick their marriage out 'for better or worse' (my own parents included, who're going on for 56yrs) plus I think it's a fabulous tribute that Liz takes the time to put ink to paper to personally congratulate the couples.
btw - who is Brenda and why is she in the middle of your fireplace? Photo please?
That is so cool and an absolute congrats to your parents. I didn't realise the Queen still sent these messages, so I was inspired enough to check out the royal website.....
Now I am downheartened as members of the former penal colonies (such as I) MAY be entitled to such messages (repeat - may be entitled) and have to apply through our Governor-General.....
So what is that Union Jack still doing on our flag.... hmmmmm ..... especially if there are no special messages that come with it.....
Mita - "Brenda" is a nickname for Her Majesty used by Private Eye. I believe it was originally coined by author Sue Townsend, she of the Adrian Mole books, but am going on memory as I don't have time for a Google! ;)
Awww! Mabrooks to your lovely folks on their 60th! Mighty inspirational.
It is my pleasure to honor you with this Versatile Blogger Award. I have chosen you because I feel you ignite the writing community with your professionalism, support, and talent. I am thankful for the way in which you represent writers, and I am honored to be associated with you.
This award has some rules associated with it - please visit my blog to see your listing and the 4 rules.
http://banana.blog.co.uk/2010/07/27/the-versatile-blogger-award-9049472/
PS Many congrats to your Mum and Dad and thank you for another wonderful blog post.
Post a Comment