These have been tough times for the Wales family, with Catherine still undergoing cancer treatment and the Monarchy stretched thin.
But there will be an outbreak of much-needed celebration today when their youngest child, Prince Louis.
Louis, brother to George, ten, and Charlotte, eight, turns six today.
Not that Charlotte will be eight for very much longer; there will be more cake and candles in just over one week's time when, on May 2, she has her ninth birthday.
In just a few short years, Louis has already delighted the public, lifting our spirits with his cheeky attitude and energetic, wholehearted reactions, while the rest of his family observe the decorum of the moment.
Here, then, are some of the magic moments have made us smile - and a reminder of why this particular birthday boy is such a favourite.
1. Digging for victory
A hole-hearted Prince Louis concentrates hard as William does some digging at the Big Help Out in the days following the Coronation
2. Barrow boy Prince
Prince Louis gets into the spirit of things with some serious shovelling
Leave it to me: Louis seems to take control he helps his Kate create a path
3. Louis takes the biscuit
On sampling duty with marshmallow biscuits as Catherine marshalls the barbeque
4. A bit of Christmas spirit
Prince Louis had smiles for everyone on his first church outing on Christmas Day
5. Look what I got...
Louis looks uncertain about this gonk-style father Christmas...
6. A big hand
A wave to the crowds on his Grandfather's big day
7. And for my next act...
Was he waving or dancing ? The crowds loved it, even in the rain
8. Won't someone make it stop?
Possibly the funniest episode on the balcony down the year, with the late Queen seemingly unaware of her great-grandson's antics
Original Karma singer Brit Smith says JoJo Siwa 'has done nothing wrong' after re
Man shot in Sydney mall after reports of stabbings, police say
MOTOR RACING/ Carlos Sainz wins F1 Australian GP after Verstappen retires early with engine fire
TVNZ staff want to know why profitable shows are being cut
Community papers to be digitalised to preserve Aotearoa's history
The UK government finally passes bill to send migrants to Rwanda. What took so long?
Upgrades begin on State Highway 6 Frankton intersection
Celine Dion reveals she wore a coat for 'nerve
Firearms Minister accused of misleading public on gun stats