Tudor Love

Last evening, I found a documentary on Netflix about Hampton Court--King Henry VIII's palace. Of course, I watched it! I was swept away to the glittering and glamorous era of my favorite king. Oh, I know he was a bad guy, but for some reason, I adore him. Perhaps it's the time period. Perhaps it's the costumes and dress. And as much as I think I could live in that time period, I know better.

I've been fascinated with Henry since I was young. My dad had an album by Rick Wakeman titled Six Wives of Henry VIII. I suppose that was my introduction to the great king. We also made regular trips to the Colorado Renaissance Festival. I loved seeing the knights and ladies. I was even "damed" once! Girls can't be knighted, of course. Pish-posh.

I remember having a dream where my dad was dressed as Henry. In my dream, I wore one of the big, fancy dresses. We lived in New England somewhere, and I had to walk the dogs. Weird dream, I know. But it still placed me in that time period.

Every year. I celebrate Elizabeth I's birthday. It's exactly one month before mine. It's always fun to tip my hat to England's most awesome queen. Yes, they've had quite a few, but I love how Elizabeth, like a phoenix, rose from the darkness of her childhood and transformed into a powerful leader.

And I imagine this love for the Tudors is what led to me becoming a duchess. Years ago, my brother purchased the title for me from the British Title Registrars. Sure, it's nothing more than a quick buck for this internet group, but I have two lovely certificates proclaiming me as "Duchess". And it's fun to toss that around.

I look forward to the day I get to go to England and take in all this history myself. I'll nod my head to Henry, Catherine, Anne, Jane, Anne, Kathryn, and Katherine. I'll spend some time with Elizabeth. And then, I'll enjoy myself a spot o'tea.

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