A close friend of Meghan Markle has shared a series of unseen photos from the Sussex family’s first month back in the UK. The Duke of Sussex has carried out a series of engagements since returning, while the Duchess has largely stayed out of the spotlight, seen only briefly at an Oxfordshire pub on Monday.
Friend shares snaps of family time
Meghan’s friend Kelly McKee Zajfen posted a carousel of photos to Instagram showing Harry, Meghan and their daughter Lilibet spending time together in the UK, during a holiday in the English countryside. The images include Meghan and Harry playing with Kelly’s baby son Jack, and a shot of Lilibet from behind, her ginger hair visible.
In the caption, Kelly said she was ‘having the best time’ in the UK and enjoying ‘getting a taste of this magical place with my bestie’. She added: “Having the best time. There’s something so special about getting a taste of this magical place with my bestie, and having my sweet Jack along for the adventure. I’ve loved seeing this sweet chapter through her eyes and daily adventures! Family time is just what the heart ordered. With a side of mashed peas and fish n chips! All of it has filled my heart.”
Warm welcome in England
Kelly also thanked people for welcoming Harry and Meghan back, writing: “[England] you’ve been so good to us. We’re leaving with full hearts and definitely leaving a piece of ours here. To everyone we’ve met or bumped into, thank you for being so loving to my friend. It’s been beautiful to witness. She missed you too!”
Meghan appears in two photos: one holding baby Jack in what looks like a pub, and another sitting in a garden with a glass of wine. Harry is pictured lying on the floor interacting with the toddler.
Long friendship and quiet service
Kelly and Meghan have been friends for nearly 20 years, having met through Meghan’s ex-husband Trevor Engelson. Kelly appeared on Meghan’s Netflix show With Love, Meghan, making festive decorations and cooking in episodes.
Earlier this year, Kelly spoke about their friendship at the Alliance for Children's Rights 34th Annual Champions for Children event in Beverly Hills, where they embraced on the red carpet. Kelly told HELLO! Magazine: “She's an incredible role model in living a life of service. She does not necessarily do everything loudly; she does things quietly, so it's really beautiful to watch.” She added: “Meghan is one of my best friends, and I'm honoured that she said yes [to presenting] and that she's been along this journey with me as well.” Kelly also noted the Duchess’s mothering: “She not only shows up for my family, but it's a real privilege to be able to watch her mother too.”
