kings and queens

Instead of working longer as most of the population will have to in the future, the Dutch Queen Beatrix,  is taking 'early' retirement at the age of 75.

They call it abdicating, which has such a negative ring to it. She's just doing what all of us find normal - retiring and taking a few years to enjoy life !

Her son Willem Alexander is will be 45 this year, so it's about time he took on the job :~)))

This news has of course sparked a whole lot of speculation about the British monarchy - will Lizzy (age 86) ever stand down for Charles (age 64) ? If she goes on like this she'll probably outlive him and we'll get Will and Kate instead (Hurrah!)

note: The Queen Mother lived to 101 :~))

Misery Lizzy looking sceptical at the very idea of resigning...

I came across this snippet from Author Robert Lacey, who has written several books about the British monarchy, said Beatrix's decision would likely firm up Elizabeth's resolve.

"It would reinforce her feeling that the Dutch don't know what monarchy is about, and that she should go on forever," he said. "The crown is a job for life in the British system."

Ye Gods - such a typically fuddy duddy British attitude !! Now I remember why I prefer to live in Holland than the UK !!