Princess Sofia of Sweden is gearing up to celebrate a significant birthday this week. Currently expecting her fourth child with Prince Carl Philip, she will turn 40 on Friday, December 6. In a recent interview with Vogue Scandinavia, she revealed that her advanced pregnancy will prevent her from hosting a grand bash to mark the start of a new decade in her life. (It was announced on September 2 that she is due in February 2025.)

Balancing Family and Royal Duties

Sofia, who married Carl Philip in 2015, is already a mother to Prince Alexander, 8, Prince Gabriel, 7, and Prince Julian, 3. She emphasized in the interview that while she finds personal fulfillment in her family life, she also derives satisfaction from her professional life and royal duties. She stated, "In a world that may seem gloomy at times, I am aware of the many amazing things happening. It's easy to think the world isn't progressing, but it is."When it comes to juggling parenting and royal obligations, Sofia and Carl Philip opened up in a 2017 interview with Swedish magazine Kupé. Carl Philip humorously described their home as "chaos," with them getting accustomed to "diaper changes and sleepless nights." Sofia added, "We strive to make as much family time as possible in the evenings through bathing and establishing a routine. But it's a challenge, especially with two children. However, there is also twice the love."And in February, their family will expand with the arrival of their fourth child, bringing even more joy and love.

Royal Family Dynamics and Future

Sofia and Carl Philip's announcement of their fourth child on Instagram three months ago revealed that the princess is "doing well" and that her pregnancy will not disrupt her already planned work schedule. The new baby will be eighth in line to the Swedish throne. It's important to note that after Carl Philip's father King Carl XVI Gustaf's 2019 decision, the children of Carl Philip and his sister Princess Madeleine will no longer be styled as HRH as they are not expected to perform royal duties. In contrast, the children of Crown Princess Victoria, Carl Philip's older sister and heir to the throne, retain their HRH styling.Carl Philip saw the decision as "positive" for his children, believing it will give them more freedom in life. He added that they will still hold their prince titles and duchies, Södermanland and Dalarna, which hold great value to the family.

Royal Events and Public Appearances

Princess Sofia and Prince Carl Philip have been actively involved in various royal events and public appearances. From attending the King's Dinner for Nobel Laureates at the Royal Palace on December 11, 2023, to participating in ceremonies like the opening of the Swedish Parliament's fall session on September 10, 2024, they have represented the royal family with grace.They also attended the Symposium "Ctrl+Rights For Increased Safety On The Net" at SPACE Stockholm on February 6, 2024, showcasing their commitment to different aspects of society.In conclusion, Princess Sofia of Sweden is navigating the joys and challenges of family life and royal duties with grace and determination. Her upcoming milestone birthday and the arrival of the new baby are moments that will add to the rich tapestry of the Swedish royal family.