Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, is hoping that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be happy with their choice of stepping back from the royal family. The wife of Prince Edward shared a few thoughts about their royal exit by saying that she also had some of the adjustments to make when she became a part of the family.
Queen Elizabeth's daughter-in-law said that she wishes nothing but the best for Prince Harry and Meghan, who are now building their life in the United States. The Countess of Wessex was a confidant of Meghan, who lived just 10 miles off each other when the Sussexes were still staying at Frogmore Cottage.
Sophie said in an interview with The Sunday Times Magazine that they have all pitched in to help a new family member aboard The Firm. The countess said that she herself had five years to adjust to the royal life, which started when she was engaged to Prince Edward.
The Countess of Wessex said that she had to live in Buckingham Palace during their engagement. At that time, it still was certain how her relationship to Prince Edward would turn out.
Today, the couple are staying in Bagshot Park, which has been their home since their wedding in 1999. The Earl and Countess of Wessex are actually celebrating 21 years of marriage on June 19. This long marriage has produced two children -- Lady Louis and James, Viscount Severn.
Sophie also said that she would like her kids not to become working royals when they are of age. Lady Louis is only 16, while James is 13. The Countess of Wessex revealed that she and Prince Edward have raised their children with the understanding that they will eventually have to find a job when they become adults.
Both children do not have royal titles as the Wessex royal couple want them to have a normal life away from the spotlight. However, upon reaching 18, the Wessex children can very well decide for themselves but their mother is sure that they will likely choose a different career path.
Sophie also said that Queen Elizabeth, the most important figure in the U.K., is still her children's grandmother first and foremost. While she lives in a castle, Lady Louis and James have been taught by their parents that who they are and their status in life is not that important.
The Countess of Wessex also shared that Prince Edward is a very involved father who often takes James for fishing and Louise for horseback-riding. These activities, which they have done as kids, have been treasured traditions in the Wessex household.
