Meghan Markle is settling into a new chapter of her life in the United Kingdom alongside Prince Harry and their two children, following their move back to Britain in August. However, the Duchess of Sussex remains nostalgic for her friends and family in California, particularly her mother, Doria Ragland, who resides in Los Angeles.
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Sources close to Meghan have shared insights on her current situation, stating that she is coping well with the transition, although she misses her connections in Montecito. “She’s keeping busy, as she always does, and staying in close contact with her friends in Montecito,” the source remarked. Meghan is reportedly excited about returning to the U.S. for the holidays and has already begun making plans to reunite with her friends during their visit.
The wellbeing of her children, Prince Archie, aged seven, and Princess Lilibet, aged five, remains a top priority for Meghan. According to the source, the children have adjusted successfully to their new environment, which is of great importance to her. “The kids have adjusted well, and that’s the most important thing to her,” the insider noted.
In addition to her family life, Meghan is actively working on her career, particularly with her lifestyle brand, ‘Archewell.’ Recently, the brand launched its first festive collection, which includes an Advent calendar inspired by their California home. The calendar, created in partnership with Los Angeles chocolatier Compartés, features illustrations of their property and contains 24 chocolates, with the countdown numbers scripted in Meghan’s handwriting.
This new collection serves as a heartfelt nod to her Californian roots, where Meghan and Harry initially established their family residence after stepping back from their royal roles in 2020. Despite their current residence in the U.K., the couple has maintained ownership of their Montecito property.
Looking ahead to the festive season, Meghan and Harry have confirmed plans to celebrate Christmas and Thanksgiving with Doria, coordinating the holiday arrangements based on her preferences. This decision indicates that a reunion with the royal family is unlikely. Previous reports suggest that both Harry and Meghan understand the complications that such a gathering would entail. An insider commented that they do not expect an invitation from the royal family and are not anticipating one.
Meghan and Harry last spent Christmas with the royals in 2018, when they participated in the traditional celebrations with Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William, and Kate Middleton. Since that time, their relationship with the royal family has been strained, particularly following their departure as working royals and subsequent move to California, where they welcomed Lilibet in 2021.
In recent months, Harry has managed to connect with his father, King Charles III, including an in-person meeting at Highgrove alongside Meghan and their children. However, tensions with his brother, Prince William, continue to persist, with sources suggesting that there has been little progress toward reconciliation. “There has been no movement, especially on William’s side,” an insider previously disclosed.
As Harry and Meghan adapt to their life in the U.K., they are now shifting their focus towards meaningful work and causes that resonate with them. The couple has announced their first official joint appearance since returning to Britain, scheduled for 15 October in Nottingham, where they will engage with projects important to them.
The couple’s busy schedules coincide with family life, maintaining a balance that speaks to their priorities. “During the week, while the kids are in school, they’re working,” the source elaborated. “They’re enjoying family weekends together.”
As they navigate this new phase of life, Meghan and Harry appear committed to establishing a routine that fosters both their family’s happiness and their professional aspirations. With the festive season approaching, they are keen to reconnect with their loved ones, while the memories of California and their established friendships continue to hold a significant place in their hearts.