After revealing her cancer diagnosis back in March, Kate Middleton just announced she's finally finished her nine-month long chemotherapy treatment. Instead of releasing a written statement or an Instagram post, Middleton shared an emotional, gorgeous video featuring her entire family. It's a serene celebration of her loving family as they take the next steps in her cancer journey together. Here's what the Princess of Wales said.
This three minute video packs in a lot of love — and a lot of life – after such a grim circumstance for the beloved royal family. Middleton opens with what a relief it is to announce that she's finished her chemo treatment, and continues by explaining, "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown."
The Princess of Wales elaborates that cancer is "complex, scary, and unpredictable," especially for friends and family. She says, ""This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved."
Middleton says that her main goal is to remain cancer-free, and continue on her long healing journey. She plans to "each day as it comes," while also hoping to join some public engagements in the future. She says, "Despite all that has gone before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life."
The Princess wraps up her statement by saying that she and Prince William are "grateful" for everyone's enduring support, noting that the overall graciousness and kindness has been "truly humbling." She says, "To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright."
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Throughout her contemplative statement, the video features gorgeous shots of the entire family out in nature, splashing through the beach, walking through a nature trail, and just generally being together. With three grown, yet still young, children, this family vibrancy resonates deeply, reminding us all to hold those we love closely.
We're so thrilled for Princess Kate, and the entire family, on this incredible health milestone, and we continue to wish them well!
When did Kate Middleton get cancer?
Kate Middleton officially announced her cancer diagnosis back in March of 2024. The Princess never explicitly stated what kind of cancer she's battling, only that she was in the midst of a thorough treatment plan.
Back in January of that same year, Middleton underwent abdominal surgery that many assume is associated with the diagnosis at hand. After the described "successful" surgery, Kensington Palace stated that Middleton wished that her "personal medical information" remained "private." They further explained that the public would get updates "when there is significant new information to share."
The next update we received was the March video, explaining Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis, leading us to believe that each incident is tied together.
Regardless, it's great to hear that the Princess of Wales has officially completed her chemotherapy treatment as of today!
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Header image via Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
December is the perfect time for holiday travel and taking a break from the seasonal bustle. Whether you’re looking to embrace winter’s chill or escape to a warmer destination, there’s a winter wonderland waiting for you. We’ve curated 13 must-visit spots for your December bucket list, from snow-covered ski havens like Park City, Utah and Burlington, Vermont, to sunny getaways in California and the Caribbean. Each destination offers its own unique take on holiday celebrations, so you'll get a memorable trip no matter what your travel cup of tea happens to be. Get ready to pack your bags and your favorite travel buddy, your December travel plans await!
EMBRACE THE CHILL
Bethlehem, PA
Just a 1.5 hour bus ride from NYC, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is known as "Christmas City" for good reason. The Historic Main Street transforms into a winter party with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday markets. The Christkindlmarkt is a must-see, offering handmade gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats. Stroll around charming 18th century architecture and cobblestoned streets, visit the Moravian Book Shop, and stay and dine at the historic Hotel Bethlehem. Find holiday fun at the SteelStacks cultural center too, like a Gingerbread Competition, and visit the Trees of Historic Bethlehem exhibitat 1810 Goundie House, Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem, and Single Sisters’ House for a festive experience.
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Breckinridge, CO
Breckenridge, Colorado, less than two hours from Denver, is nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The town is bustling with holiday spirit as snow blankets the charming streets and mountain peaks. From ski-in/out resorts to cozy cabins, there are plenty of ideal stays for your bucket-list mountain escape. Stroll back in time along Main Street in the historic downtown district and admire the colorful buildings dating back to the late 1800s. Once a mining town, now you’ll find boutique shops, galleries and restaurants like the James Beard-nominated Roostalk and Radicato. Take a scenic Gondola ride up to the mountains for winter fun and leave your car behind as all the buses are free in town. The town’s Holiday Lights and the Lighting of Breckenridge create holiday fun while you warm up at a cozy cafe after.
NYC, New York
If you've never visited NYC during the month of December, 2024 might be the year to cross that off your holiday wish list. The city comes alive, from uptown to downtown, with festive lights, decorations, and seasonal events, like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and nearby ice-skating rink beneath it. Window displays at stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue offer stunning holiday scenes, while Christmas markets like the one at Bryant Park have indie gifts and local treats on hand. Central Park covered in snow is an amazing sight and you can explore NYC's darling tea places to warm up after, like Alice's Tea Cup inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Enjoy a Broadway show, grab a French-inspired brunch at Balthazar in Soho before shopping for last-minute gifts, and take the perfect holiday photo on the Brooklyn Bridge.
Prague
Visiting Prague in December feels like you've walked into a fairytale. The city's medieval architecture decorated with festive lights and snow creates this magical experience. The famous Old Town Square hosts one of Europe’s loveliest Christmas markets, where you can find handmade crafts, traditional Czech treats, and mulled wine. The Prague Castle and Charles Bridge offer stunning views of the city. Warm up in cozy cafés with a cup of hot chocolate or try local delicacies like trdelník, a sugary cake. If you have time, plan to extend your European winter escape and visit Vienna and Budapest for more unique Christmas markets, cultural events, and holiday trimmings.
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Park City, UT
Just 35 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport, Park City, Utah is known for its luxe ski resorts like Deer Valley and Park City Mountain, making it a top destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts (and après skiaficionados). Stroll the charming, historic Main Street for cozy restaurants like Firewood, art galleries, and local breweries, and enjoy activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and taking scenic chairlift rides. It's the quintessential winter escape!
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Paris, France
Here's a holiday getaway, Emily in Paris style. Holiday shop along the Champs-Élysées, where trees are lit up in spectacular red LED lights. While there, grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower (catch a great view of it in the Christmas village at Trocadéro), the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you'll find a Christmas market for the season (also check out the one at the Tuileries Gardens). Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais or dig into the stunning bûche de Noël at the Butterfly Pâtisserie in the Hôtel de Crillon. After her last trip, Content Editor, Haley Sprankle can't recommend visiting Le Bon Georges — and their biblically long wine list — for a delicious meal enough. Regardless of where you wind up, you're sure to have something lovely!
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Leavenworth, WA
This Bavarian-inspired escape is nestled in the heart of the Cascades between Seattle and Spokane. The town's charming alpine-style buildings are decked out in festive lights for the annual Christmas Lighting Festival while snow blankets the surrounding mountains. Enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides, and/or stroll through the streets for cozy shops, holiday treats, and German-inspired foods like bratwurst and pretzels. Enjoy the carolers, festive concerts, and holiday markets that fill the town with cheer too!
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Burlington, VT
This charming winter escape offers a mix of festive holiday spirit and natural beauty. Snowy streets and nearby mountains create an IG-worthy setting. Church Street Marketplace, decorated for the season, is filled with cozy cafes, unique shops, and local artisans. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding, and sleigh rides, at nearby resorts like Stowe or Bolton Valley, while the scenic views of Lake Champlain are not to be missed. Take a factory tour of Ben & Jerry's too!
ESCAPE THE CHILL
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Santa Barbara, CA
With sunny skies and spring-like temps, Santa Barbara beaches like Butterfly Beach and Arroyo Burro are perfect for strolls, picnics, and capturing coastal views. Visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, beautifully lit up during the holiday season; shop and check out the annual Holiday Parade on State Street; and explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for your reminder of outdoor plants. Take a scenic drive to the Santa Ynez Valley to enjoy wine tasting in cozy, festive tasting rooms, or visit Solvang, known for its Danish-style architecture and being "extra" around the holidays. December is also the start of the whale-watching season as gray whales migrate along the California coast so take a tour to catch an amazing sight of them!
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The Florida Keys
With temperatures in the 70s and 80s, December is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking in the clear waters of the Florida Keys, especially at spots like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Known for its beautiful beaches, Bahia Honda State Park offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and wildlife spotting, like dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. Key West's historic Old Town is beautifully lit up for the holidays, and you can visit iconic spots like the Ernest Hemingway Home. Stay at resorts like the Lime Tree Bay Resort and Ocean Key Resort to relax in warm-weather luxury while enjoying the festive holiday atmosphere.
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San Miguel Allende, Mexico
Fly into Mexico City for a wonderful city, food, and culture experience, and then head over to San Miguel de Allende for a creative's dream. The city's colonial charm with cobblestone streets and historic buildings are decorated with beautiful lights and Christmas decorations, especially around the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. In mid-December, you can watch or participate in Las Posadas, a traditional Mexican reenactment of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem. The processions, music, and street celebrations make for a stunning cultural experience. San Miguel is also home to several art schools including Bellas Artes, and visitors can take workshops on their visit. The town hosts several holiday markets where you can buy local crafts, gifts, and festive food, and has a beautiful tradition of Christmas Eve Midnight Mass (La Misa de Gallo) at the Parroquia, often followed by fireworks in the main square (El Jardín).
Oahu, Hawaii
Even in December, Oahu offers warm temps, with highs around the mid-70s to low 80s°F. Sit with a good read and enjoy Oahu’s famous beaches like Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Kailua Beach. Surfing is especially big this time of year, with the North Shore experiencing massive winter swells, perfect for watching pro surfers during events like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, between November 12 and December 20. For calmer waters, snorkeling in spots like Hanauma Bay is beautiful. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters in December, and you can often spot them from the shore or on a whale-watching tour. This is also a great time to hike Oahu’s scenic trails, like Diamond Head, Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, and Manoa Falls, where you can enjoy lush greenery and stunning views.
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Aruba
December weather in Aruba ranges between 80-85°F with plenty of sunshine. Aruba’s pristine beaches like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are a highlight. Swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or simply relax by the crystal-clear waters. Explore the island’s coral reefs, shipwrecks like the Antilla, and enjoy water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. Inland, you can explore Arikok National Parkfor hiking, cave tours, and discovering Aruba’s unique desert-like landscapes. The capital, Oranjestad, is beautifully lit for the holidays, and you’ll find Christmas markets, parades, and holiday concerts happening throughout the month with a mix of its Dutch heritage with Caribbean flair.
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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's relationship has captivated us throughout the years. Their story has love, family, loss, and of course, royalty. But how did the Duke and Duchess of Sussex come to be the powerful, independent couple they are today? Here's everything we know about the pair's relationship timeline, starting from the first time they met!
Mike Coppola / Getty Images for 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Gala
July 2016: Meghan and Harry meet
After initially meeting on Instagram (a classic plot point for 21st century relationships), Meghan and Harry met for a first date in London.
“I was scrolling through my feed and someone who was a friend had this video of the two of them [and Meghan], it was like a Snapchat,” Harry said of is digital introduction to Meghan in the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries. He remembers asking himself, "Who is that?"
Chris Jackson / Getty Images
November 2016: Meghan and Harry reveal they are officially dating
It was an official statement from Kensington Palace that confirmed Meghan and Harry's relationship.
At the time, Meghan faced mass amounts of sexist and racist backlash through the media for her association with the royal family. Kensington Palace denounced the hate in a statement:
“Some of this has been very public — the smear on the front page of a national newspaper; the racial undertones of comment pieces; and the outright sexism and racism of social media trolls and Web article comments,” the statement read. “Some of it has been hidden from the public — the nightly legal battles to keep defamatory stories out of papers; her mother having to struggle past photographers in order to get to her front door; the attempts of reporters and photographers to gain illegal entry to her home and the calls to police that followed; the substantial bribes offered by papers to her ex-boyfriends; the bombardment of nearly every friend, coworker, and loved one in her life.”
Despite the hate, Meghan and Harry persevered as a couple.
Chris Jackson / Getty Images
September 2017: Meghan shines a light on her relationship with Harry
Meghan revealed even more information about her connection with Harry in a Vanity Faircover story in September 2017.
“We’re a couple. We’re in love,” she told Vanity Fair. “I’m sure there will be a time when we have to come forward and present ourselves, and have stories to tell, but I hope what people will understand is that this is our time. This is for us. It’s part of what makes it so special, that it’s just ours. But we’re happy. Personally, I love a great love story.”
Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation
November 2017: Meghan and Harry are engaged
Meghan officially moved to London in the fall of 2017 and the couple announced their engagement not long after.
Harry proposed to Meghan at Nottingham Cottage on the grounds of Kensington Palace with a ring made from two of Princess Diana's diamonds, and she said "yes" on the spot!
An official statement from the palace detailed their engagement further:
“His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle,” it read. “His Royal Highness and Ms. Markle became engaged in London earlier this month. Prince Harry has informed Her Majesty The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle's parents.”
Meghan recalled the moment Harry proposed on the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries:
“He’s down on one knee and I was like, ‘Yes!’ I was so joyful and excited. I was like, ‘Ah we’re doing this."
Ben Birchall / Getty Images
May 2018: Meghan and Harry’s wedding
Meghan and Harry got married at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. They admitted a few years later that they had actually exchanged vows three days before they walked down the aisle, for the sake of privacy.
“No one knows that,” Meghan said in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. “We called the archbishop and just said, look, this thing, this spectacle is for the world, but we want our union between us, so the vows that we have framed in our room are just the two of us in our backyard with the archbishop of Canterbury.”
Millions of people tuned in for their televised wedding ceremony on May 19, 2018.
October 2018: Meghan announced her first pregnancy
On October 15, 2018, Kensington Palace released a statement informing the public that Meghan and Harry were expecting their first child the following spring.
The news broke while Meghan and Harry were on a 16-day royal tour through Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. The pair returned home and settled in at Windsor Castle's Frogmore Cottage to start prepping for the baby.
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May 2019: Meghan and Harry welcome their first child
The couple welcomed their first son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6, 2019."We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses’ son weighs 7lbs. 3oz," an Instagram post from @sussexroyal read. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives."
Chris Jackson / Getty Images
January 2020: The couple steps back from their roles in the royal family
After "many months" of deliberation, Meghan and Harry had decided to "transition" from the royal family in early 2020.
In an official statement, they shared their plans to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family, become financially independent from Her Majesty, and split time between the United States and United Kingdom.
"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity," the statement read. "We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties."
They moved to the U.S. a couple months later, staying in Montecito, California until they bought a home in Santa Barbara in the summer of 2020.
November 2020: Meghan announced she had a miscarriage with her second child
Meghan admitted she experienced a miscarriage with her second pregnancy, writing in a vulnerable New York Times op-ed essay that the loss of her second pregnancy with Prince Harry felt like “an almost unbearable grief.”
“I knew, as I clutched my firstborn child, that I was losing my second,” Meghan wrote. “Hours later, I lay in a hospital bed, holding my husband’s hand. I felt the clamminess of his palm and kissed his knuckles, wet from both our tears. Staring at the cold white walls, my eyes glazed over. I tried to imagine how we’d heal.”
March 2021: Interview with Oprah
The couple sat down for a very candidinterview with Oprah in March 2021, coming clean on multiple topics that had arose since living in the public eye. From Meghan’s mental health to the dynamic of the royal family – including the racism Meghan had experienced since becoming a member – they spoke honestly.
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June 2021: Meghan and Harry welcome their daughter, Lilibet
The pair publicly announced their second pregnancy in February 2021, welcoming their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten Windsor, a few months later.
Lilibet was born on June 4, 2021 in Santa Barbara, California.
Kirsty O'Connor / Getty Images
June 2022: Meghan and Harry attend the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Meghan and Harry headed to Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, marking their first joint appearance in the U.K. in over two years at that point.
The two weren’t publicly mingling with other senior royalty in attendance, though they reportedly introduced Lilibet to the Queen in private during their trip.
"They aren't part of the [working] royal family anymore, and that's a decision they have taken — but maybe [the public] hasn't quite accepted that yet," a source close to the couple told Peoplein 2022. "Yes, they were low-key. They paid their respects and went home."
September 2022: Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral
Meghan and Harry were called to Windsor Castle on September 8, 2022, shortly after Queen Elizabeth II passed away at age 96.
They briefly reunited with Kate Middleton and Prince William to support the royal family amid the news. According to Kensington Palace, the rare meeting was actually William's idea, with a source noting that it "was an important show of unity at an incredibly difficult time for the family."
Sascha Schuermann / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation
December 2022: The Harry & Meghan docuseries drops
The first volume Meghan & Harry Netflix docuseries hit screens on December 8, 2022. The pair addressed their full love story, their new family, and dived deeper on their reasons for distancing from the royal family in the three-part series.
Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images
March 2023: Meghan and Harry were told to leave their royal residence in the U.K.
Meghan and Harry were asked to “vacate” Frogmore Cottage in the spring of 2023.
"We can confirm The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been requested to vacate their residence at Frogmore Cottage," a spokesperson for the couple's Archewell Foundation told People.
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January 2024: The truth comes to light about Queen Elizabeth’s blessing for Meghan and Harry’s daughter’s name
An inside source disputed the claim that the late Queen Elizabeth had not given Meghan and Harry her blessing to name their daughter after her known nickname, Lilibet.
“Meghan and Harry 100 percent got permission from the queen to use the name Lilibet,” the insider said. “The report is not true. [Harry and Meghan] don’t know where this is coming from...They’re shocked that this is coming now; it seems out of nowhere and out of left field. They just feel like it’s more of the same spear campaign that continues against them.”
Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation
March 2024: Meghan and Harry were in Austin, Texas for SXSW
Meghan was slated to speak on a South by Southwest panel for International Women’s Day 2024, so she and Harry traveled to Austin, Texas.
While they were in Austin, the couple had a date night at Soho House Austin.
“They were happy and in great spirits,” an eyewitness told People. “Harry was very animated throughout the dinner. They were super low key and seemed happy to be around the upbeat vibes at the lively venue.”
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Lead photo by Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation.
Cozy TV fans rejoice! Not only is Sullivan's Crossing finally back, and Sweet Magnolias season 4 is on its way, but we finally got the first look at Virgin River season 6. Not only are we prepping for Mel and Jack's wedding, but we'll also get a glimpse into Mel's father's past — and Virgin River in the '70s. This promises to be the most intriguing season yet. Here's when you can watch new episodes!
Is there a new season of Virgin River in 2024?
Netflix
Virgin River Season 6 Release Date
Yes, Virgin River season 6 is finally coming to Netflix this year! You'll be able to watch all 10 episodes of the new season on Thursday December 19, 2024.
What is Virgin River season 6 about?
Netflix
Virgin River Season 6 Plot
Mel and Jack are finally tying the knot and it's made spring in Virgin River even more beautiful than it already was. But as they get closer to their wedding ceremony, secrets and love triangles (not to mention the usual wedding drama) mean tensions are rising. And when Mel's father's past comes to light, we see a whole new side of Virgin River we've never seen before: the 1970s.
I'm so used to seeing Virgin River in the 21st Century (and all the sweaters, skinny jeans, and loose waves that come with it), and I'm very interested to see what it looks like in the '70s. Bring on the bell bottoms!
Who's in the cast of Virgin River?
Netflix
Virgin River Season 6 Cast
The cast of Virgin River season 6 includes Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.
Who is Mel's biological father?
Netflix
During the final episode of Virgin River season 5, Mel learns that her biological father is a man named Everett. Despite denying it at first, Everett confesses that he is her father and he has something important he has to share with her. But what exactly?
“As soon as we figure it out, we’re going to let you know,” writer and producer Richard Keith told Tudum in 2022.
What happened at the end of Virgin River season 5?
Netflix
The Virgin River Season 5 Ending, Explained
Virgin River season 5 was an emotional one, and the first part, which dropped September 7, 2023, culminated in a major wildfire tearing through town and Mel suffering a miscarriage while helping her neighbors. But it's not stopping Mel and Jack from settling into Virgin River for good, and building a home where Lilly's farm once stood.
In the final two episodes of Virgin River season 5, which dropped November 30, 2023, Mel and Jack set off to find Mel's dad who turns out to be Everett, the very man who claimed he wasn't her father. Meanwhile, Jack's own parents are fighting, Lizzie clashes with their mom when she finally reveals she's pregnant, Lark is secretly working with Jimmy (Calvin's second-in-command), and Charmaine ends up giving birth to her twins. Whew!
We'll have to wait for December to see what Virgin River season 6 has cooked up for us.
Read up on 21 More Comfort Shows + Binge-worthy Series To Watch This Week.