Prince Charles made a brief stop at the Legislative Building in Winnipeg. There was a large crowd to greet him and his wife.
I stood in the front pathway along with other royal watchers. The crowd was made up of various people that came down to see Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla. There were families that brought their children, the elderly and there was even protesters that were part of the crowd. One lady that I stood next to, shared her story of how she grew to love Charles’ new wife, Camilla, the Duchess. I could hear other people in the crowd also sharing their own experiences of being a Royal watcher. I was bit puzzled by their fascination with the Royal family.
I could also hear an aboriginal protester behind me. I turned to see an aboriginal protester waving a bright coloured flag in front of group of police officers. I could see the situation might escalate and was concerned that the protester might get hurt by the police officer. I went over with my cell phone ready to take a picture, there was another aboriginal man, also carrying his cell phone already there. I stood in front of the officer, being obvious that I had my cell phone. The officer had the protester moved across the street with his flag and turned his back to me, once he saw that I had my cell phone pointing at him.
I went back to where I was standing. Prince Charles was very late, but no one in crowd left and were willing to wait until he came out the building. Each time the doors of the Legislative Building opened, there was a flurry of cameras flashing, hoping it was Prince Charles and his wife. It was only after 45 minutes that Prince Charles and the entourage of dignitaries made their way down the steps and into the crowd.
As he made his way towards me and the others in my area there was pause, then someone spotted him coming our direction. That moment was magical, actually seeing the future King in person. I almost forgot to take the pictures that I wanted. I couldn’t believe that the man I saw on TV was actually walking in front of me, only a few feet away from me. Now I could understand why people became so fascinated with the Royal family.
As I left the legislative grounds, I didn’t want to admit to myself that I almost became or have become a Royal groupie. I have taken photos of other famous people, but I do have to admit, the Prince did leave very favourable impression with me, but not enough for me to be storming any castle walls in the future.
