Kate's CHRISTMAS WISH

AFTER A YEAR OF PRIVATE STRUGGLES, THE PRINCESS IS GRATEFUL FOR THE GIFTS OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Just before the annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, J Kate Middleton released a note about the importance of love. The holiday season offers an "opportunity to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all," she wrote. "It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about."

Three months after she announced the end of her chemotherapy, Kate, 42, feels incredibly grateful to resume her public life. In early December, she joined Prince William in welcoming the Emir of Qatar and his wife to England. "It's a really special time for Kate because she remembers how she felt at Christmas last year, and it's been a complete 180," says a friend.

As the holidays approach, she's enlisted the aid of her three children, George, 11, Charlotte, 9, and Louis, 6, for some of her favorite seasonal activities. "Kate and the kids will make treats for their neighbors as they always do, but Kate will be back to hand delivering them this year," says the friend, who adds that some of her baked goodies will also be gifted to staff, family and friends.