Prince Harry’s memoir, "Spare," recounts a memorable holiday moment when his wife, Meghan Markle, gifted him a cherished ornament of Queen Elizabeth. This seemingly simple gesture carried profound emotional weight, only to meet an unexpected end.

A Moment Frozen in Time: The Power of Sentimental Gifts

The First American Christmas

In 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embarked on their inaugural Christmas celebration in the United States with their young son, Prince Archie. As they settled into their new life across the Atlantic, Meghan sought to bridge the distance from family by selecting a unique gift for Harry. She stumbled upon a small ornament depicting the late Queen Elizabeth II, a memento that immediately resonated with her husband.The ornament was more than just a decorative item; it symbolized the deep-rooted connection between Harry and his grandmother. Holding it up to the light, he marveled at how accurately it captured the Queen’s likeness. Placing it on the tree at eye level, Harry found comfort in seeing this familiar face during a time filled with change and uncertainty. It became a daily reminder of home and heritage, bringing smiles to both parents as they reminisced about cherished memories.

An Innocent Mishap

However, the tranquility of this heartwarming scene was interrupted by the playful antics of a toddler. Archie, then just 19 months old, was captivated by the twinkling lights and ornaments adorning the tree. In his excitement, he inadvertently knocked over the stand, causing the tree to sway. With a sudden crash, the ornament fell to the floor, shattering into pieces.Harry turned around to witness the aftermath, feeling a pang of disappointment. Yet, amidst the chaos, there was an unexpected twist. Archie, in his earnest attempt to help, grabbed a spray bottle and aimed it at the broken fragments. Believing water could mend the shattered glass, he sprayed enthusiastically. Meghan quickly intervened, calling out, “No, Archie, no—do not spray Gan-Gan!” The humor of the moment lightened the mood, turning what could have been a somber occasion into one filled with laughter and familial warmth.

Holiday Traditions and New Beginnings

Since that eventful day, the Sussex family has continued to celebrate Christmas in the United States. Meghan has expressed her love for the holidays, noting how each year becomes increasingly special as her children grow older. She finds joy in watching Archie and Lilibet experience the magic of Christmas traditions, such as leaving carrots for reindeer and decorating the tree together.These moments underscore the importance of creating new memories while honoring past ones. For the Sussexes, the holidays are not just about gifts and festivities but about fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. Despite the challenges and changes, they find solace in celebrating with their immediate family, embracing the spirit of the season and the enduring bonds that tie them together.