Princess Catherine’s Mom: A Unique Figure in the Royal Family

Princess Catherine's mother, Carol Middleton, holds a remarkable position within the royal family.

As a non-royal, young, and trendy grandmother, she stands out like no other.

Carol, the daughter of a trucking company employee-turned-builder father and a shop clerk mother, plays an unprecedented role in raising the next generation of royals – her three grandchildren: future King Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Described as industrious, warm, and energetic, Carol, along with her husband Michael, has always been a guiding force for her three children – Catherine, Pippa, and James.

The Middletons have been deeply involved with the royal family, offering support, encouragement, and instilling a strong work ethic in their children.

Carol's close relationship with the royal family is evident in her frequent visits to Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

On one occasion, she was even spotted in the front seat of the late Queen's Range Rover.

Interestingly, Carol and Michael were guests at the castle instead of King Charles' Burke Hall, where they had previously stayed.

While the men and younger women, including Catherine, enjoyed a shoot on the grouse moors, Carol returned to the castle with the Queen after lunch.

At Royal Ascot, where the Middletons are regular guests of the Queen, they are seen as down-to-earth and relatable.

There are no delusions of grandeur despite their daughter's future role as Queen.

This attitude is appreciated by Prince Philip, who recognizes their genuine nature.

Prince William, too, cherishes his in-laws, having formed a strong bond with them during his courtship with Catherine.

Given William's own childhood experiences, his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, has made a conscious effort to include the Middletons more than she otherwise would have.

She acknowledges their significant role in her family's life and embraces it wholeheartedly.

For Carol, spending time with her grandchildren, often taking them to Buckleberry Farm Park, is a true joy.

She relishes the opportunity to read to them, play games, and engage in all the activities that a loving grandmother would do.

In an interview, Carol expressed her enthusiasm for joining in her grandchildren's adventures, including running down hills, climbing trees, and going through tunnels at the playground.

Cooking together, dancing, and going on bike rides are also part of their shared experiences.

Carol's role model is her husband's mother, whom she admires and tries to emulate.

According to reports, Carol believes it is beneficial for children to participate in kitchen chores from a young age, such as chopping and stirring.

Additionally, she affectionately refers to her daughters by endearing names – “Pip” for Pippa and the formal version of “Kate's” name, Catherine.

One can't help but wonder if Carol has another nickname for Kate, which she uses in private moments at home.

During the interview, Carol revealed some intriguing details about herself.

She confessed that she had desired a larger family than the one she has now, stating that she would have had five or six children if circumstances allowed.

Carol and Michael reside in a 4.7 million pound home in Bucklebury, located less than an hour's drive from Adelaide Cottage on the Royal Windsor Estate, the property chosen by Prince William and Catherine.

Their residence, known as Bucklebury Manor, is a magnificent seven-bedroom, grade-two listed Georgian property with a drawing room, a library, and 18 acres of land.

Interestingly, it was also the venue for Pippa Middleton's wedding reception in May 2017.

Carol Middleton's unique position within the royal family is a testament to her unwavering support, love, and dedication to her children and grandchildren.

Her hands-on approach to grandparenting, her down-to-earth nature, and her genuine connection with the royal family have endeared her to all who know her.

As she continues to create cherished memories with her beloved grandchildren, Carol remains an integral part of the Middletons' influence on the future of the British monarchy.