The Dutch people have been waiting since January 28th when Queen Beatrix announced her abdication for 30th April 2013. When Queen's day came with the announcement of a new Queen - Maxima who the people have grown over time to know and love.
Willem-Alexander is the first Dutch king since Willem III, who reigned until his death in 1890. He is a member of the International Olympic Committee, a trained pilot and an expert in water management who was groomed for his position.
Maxima is an investment banker Maxima Zorreguieta. Her father was an agriculture minister in the military junta that ruled Argentina with an iron fist in the late 1970s and early '80s. Marriage and three daughters later love rules today.
The monarch in the Netherlands is largely ceremonial. There was no crowning ceremony taking place.
Instead the Crown and Orb was laid in front of Willem-Alexander and Maxima during the ceremony.
The recent times have shown the transferring of responsibility from one family member to another. This has been done openly, without any manipulation of deception to the people. Such openness and congruence is expected with all royals.
'King Willem-Alexander and his wife Queen Maxima took centre stage in Nieuwe Kerk, a decommissioned church, Princess Beatrix smiled happily, watching the proceedings with her three granddaughters, who all wore matching royal blue dresses.'
Wearing the fur-trimmed ceremonial mantle, Willem-Alexander swore an oath of allegiance to his country and the constitution in the historic New Church in front of guests who has attended from many different nations.
The mantle symbolizes preeminence or authority - accepted as the mantle of leadership.
'Marking the moment: King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and their daughters pose flanked by members of the royal household, heads of state and government and special guests during the photo-call'
'The family pose for an official portrait commissioned to mark the handover of the throne today'
'The investiture ceremony was the final formal act on a day of high emotion within the House of Orange-Nassau and was to be followed by an evening boat tour around the historic Amsterdam waterfront '
Princess Beatrix with her granddaughters Alexia, Catharina-Amalia and Ariane holding hands together, walk up the blue carpet to attend the ceremony.
Princess's Alexia, seven, Catharina-Amalia, the nine year old who has now become heir apparent to the throne and their little sister Ariane, six, dressed in blue wave to the crowds.
The strength of unity that is encouraged in society is shown by the head of the family. In every marriage, when two people are united together, the family are united together. This is an example that is important for future generations.
'End of an era: Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands signs the act of abdication next to her son Crown Prince Willem-Alexander and his wife Crown Princess Maxima during a ceremony at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam'
The detail in recording the event in photographs has been published in international media. The situation, people present, witnesses, approval - the time leading up to this event shows planning is necessary to organise the ceremonies.
Beatrix, now known as Princess Beatrix is openly warm with her family. The family are strengthened with affectionate bonds, despite their emotional challenges that show strength of character. Beatrix’s middle son, Prince Johan Friso, has been in a coma since he was buried in an avalanche while skiing last year. A bitter sweet day for the Dutch family both absent and present.
In her Christmas Day speech in 2010, Beatrix made a heartfelt plea for unity, saying, “with each other we all make up one society.” - when there is genuine care for the people, from royals and also officials the people respond to this.
Warmth and affection between mother and son is openly displayed and mutually reciprocated. This reflects their personal relationship and the heart of Beatrix who evidently is a family lady. Princess Beatrix, will also be queen mother.
Beatrix signed the abdication document in front of the Dutch cabinet in an ornate room.
We are reminded 'as above so below' - the painting is showing the gathering of people, with the awareness that there is an authority far beyond this earth that is a constant reminder to all members of royal families.
Princess Ariane, Princess Catharina Amalia and Princess Alexia during the ceremony
Beatrix's abdication ceremony took place in the Moseszaal of the Royal Palace
Being reminded of the New Netherlands. 'The new Dutch and his wife followed Princess Beatrix on to the balcony to greet the crowds' - and a new chapter will again begin in this time.
'Today, I make way for a new generation,' declared Beatrix, 75, who is now Princess.
Willem-Alexander kisses his mother on the balcony of the Royal Palace at the Dam Square
To the people, a new leader is presented by his mother, holding hands show their unity will continue to be strong for the rest of Beatrix days/years. Mutual Respect and warm affection is a message seen here.
The 75-year-old looked emotional on a balcony overlooking some 20,000 people.
Dutch King Willem-Alexander, Dutch Princess Beatrix and Dutch Queen Maxima sing the national anthem on the balcony. The lyrics in English are profound and far reaching. Unfortunately not all people are taught to rely totally on God.
William of Nassau am I, of Germanic descent;
True to the fatherland I remain until death.
Prince of Orange am I, free and fearless.
To the King of Spain I have always given honour.
You, my God and Lord, are my shield, on You I rely.
On You I will build; never leave me,
So that I may remain pious, your servant at all moments,
Dispelling the tyranny that wounds my heart.
The family happily wave to the excited crowds on the balcony
More photographs and report of these days can be found on the link below.
Peace, love and best wishes
Pauline Maria
No Copyright infringement intented.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2316988/Queen-Beatrix-Netherlands-abdicates-Thousands-Dutch-turn-monarch-sign-away-throne.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2317157/Royals-corners-globe-smile-camera-ceremony-welcome-new-king-Netherlands.html
