Princess Charlotte Shines Bright on Her Seventh Birthday with New Pup Orla

Amidst the blooming bluebells of Norfolk, Princess Charlotte has turned seven, and her birthday celebrations have been nothing short of delightful.

The Duchess of Cambridge, known for her keen eye behind the camera, captured some heartwarming moments of her daughter that showcase the young princess's natural charm.

These photos not only mark a special day but also introduce the family's newest furry member, a puppy named Orla.

The royal family had kept Orla's identity a well-guarded secret until now.

This little spaniel, who joined the family in the summer of 2020, made her debut in the birthday photographs.

Charlotte, wearing a cheerful blue-patterned blouse and jumper, beams into the camera while holding a bouquet of freshly-picked daisies.

Her joyful spirit shines through, making it clear she's as comfortable in front of the lens as she is playing with her siblings.

In the pictures taken at Anmer Hall, the family's country retreat, Charlotte's resemblance to her older brother George is striking.

Yet, she carries the distinctive features of her mother, with her brunette locks and captivating green eyes.

The images were captured over the weekend, creating a sweet snapshot of family life.

Orla, the family's new companion, has provided comfort following the loss of Lupo, their first dog, who passed away in November 2020.

Lupo had been a beloved part of the family since they adopted him as a puppy in 2012.

Interestingly, the royal couple was quite protective of Lupo's privacy, keeping his name under wraps initially, which led to the amusing incident dubbed “Puppergate.”

The name Orla, which means “golden princess” in Celtic, has also been a mystery until now.

While the reasons behind the name choice remain undisclosed, it seems that William and Kate have a fondness for unique names, as evidenced by their previous choice of Lupo, which means “wolf” in Italian.

As Charlotte steps into her seventh year, she is expected to take on more royal duties.

Recently, she attended a memorial service for her great-grandfather, the late Duke of Edinburgh, alongside her brother George.

Currently enrolled at Thomas's Prep School in Battersea, there are plans for Charlotte and her younger brother, Prince Louis, to join George at an exclusive school in Berkshire this September.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are also exploring new housing options closer to the Duchess's parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, in a bid to provide their children with a more grounded upbringing.

Anmer Hall served as a perfect base during William's time with the East Anglia Air Ambulance, but with both parents now fully engaged in royal duties, they seek a more practical living situation.

Keeping their children at the same school is part of their strategy to strengthen family bonds as they prepare for their future roles within the royal family.

Earlier this year, Prince William humorously shared that one of the few quarrels he and Kate have is over the morning music selection.

Charlotte, he revealed, loves to dance around the kitchen in her dresses, often with Louis trying to imitate her.

In these joyful moments, the children's laughter fills their home.

William noted that Charlotte particularly enjoys the song “Waka Waka” by Shakira, which adds to the fun atmosphere of their mornings.

It's clear that the young princess is thriving, surrounded by love, laughter, and the companionship of her new puppy.

As Princess Charlotte embraces her newfound age, she continues to embody the spirit of modern royalty, balancing her royal duties with the joys of childhood.

With a loving family and a playful pup by her side, her journey promises to be filled with many more cherished memories.