[quote] But they do the job, which isn't just some category of celebrity, but you either understand that or you don't.

Agreed, and r233's comment that Kate does nothing is just plain wrong.

From what I understand, UK anti-monarchists believe that the BRF should be put out to pasture on equity and financial grounds, and, of course, because the notion of human beings born Royal is inherently ridiculous.

I get that.

But this notion that the Royals like Kate do nothing is just nonsense. How do I know that? I've got a couple of eyes. All I see them do is work.

That was really brought home to me while I was watching a video of Kate at a public tea/garden party greeting volunteers and officials of the charities of which they are patrons.

She was standing in mega high-heels, shoulders back, head dipped down to make small talk to the hundredth or so person there who approached her, probably with the same words coming out of their mouth that the other one hundred people said, and she was attentive, engaged, smiling, polished, sunny.

Lather, rinse, repeat. And, oh, she did it while cell phones and video cameras were going minutely recording every facial movement and sound.

There's a 4 letter word for that: W O R K.

Are they wealthy? With status and fame and land and world-wide recognized position? Yup. But, with all the privilege, they pay a price for it.

I'd take her financial wealth of course, but I wouldn't trade my blissful life as a card-carrying member of the poor and obscure for Kate's life, no way, no how.

And yes, she asked for it; a thing William out to be counting his lucky stars about every day. I think he's the one that married-up.

But, she's taken on her duties and as far as I can see, has done them damn near flawlessly.

Oh, and last thing. I wouldn't cross her. I think behind that sunny, polished, pretty smiling exterior, Kate can cut a bitch if need be.