A Christmas miracle! Queen Elizabeth II is not upset that her grandson Prince Harry and his wife, Duchess Meghan (née Markle), will not be spending time with the royal family for the holidays.

“In the end, the Queen didn’t mind that they did their own thing,” a source told In Touch Weekly exclusively. “She actually wanted them to announce it to take away from the fact that Prince Philip is in the hospital. She doesn’t want anyone to focus on that or the discussions about [Prince] Andrew, etc. She’s happy for them to be the talking point.”

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MEGA

On Friday, December 20, a spokesperson for the royal couple told Us Weekly that “Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are spending private family time in Canada” along with their son, Archie, 7 months. Of course, the country means a lot to the 37-year-old actress since she spent a lot of time filming Suits there. “The decision to base themselves in Canada reflects the importance of this Commonwealth country to see them both,” they added.

After a crazy year, the pair — who are constantly criticized in England — seem thrilled to have some peace and quiet with their little family. “Meghan’s so excited and relaxed back in Toronto,” an insider told Life & Style. “Right now, they’re going to dinners, they’re having fun. They’re not hiding, but nobody really notices when they’re in Toronto.”

We bet Elizabeth can’t wait to spend some well-deserved time off considering the 93-year-old queen has had a rough few months. Most recently, her husband, Philip, was admitted to the hospital. Buckingham Palace confirmed the 98-year-old royal was hospitalized on December 20.

“The Duke of Edinburgh traveled from Norfolk this morning to the King Edward VII Hospital in London for observation and treatment in relation to a pre-existing condition,” the palace said in a statement at the time. “The admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness’ Doctor.”

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip
David Hartley/Shutterstock

Despite the craziness, things seem to be looking up for the queen and her family. Days after Philip was admitted to the hospital, their eldest child, Prince Charles, gave a comforting update on the Duke of Edinburgh’s health.

“He’s being looked after very well in hospital,” the 71-year-old said of his beloved father. “At the moment that’s all we know.”

We hope Elizabeth and her family have an incredible Christmas.