Baby princess meets the press

Her mother calls her "Ingrid", but father says "Ingrid Alexandra". Together, Norway's `crown couple' presented their new baby daughter to their fellow citizens.

Eleven-day-old Princess Ingrid Alexandra met the press on Sunday, the first of many public appearance she'll be obligated to make as the newest heir to Norway's throne. She handled it well, staying quiet and hardly blinking in the glare of TV lights and camera flashes..

Her parents and older brother, Marius, Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son from an earlier relationship, claimed that Princess Ingrid Alexandra is a good baby all the time. Even during some tummy ache in the past few days.

Crown Prince Haakon says that both names for Norway's new Royal heiress should be used, at least formally. No date has been set yet for her christening ceremony, but there's no doubt both names will be used then.

The young family met the press at their new home at Skaugum, the royal estate in suburban Asker, west of Oslo. Crown Prince Haakon grew up there and took over the property from his parents, but he and his family didn't move in until extensive renovations had been completed just before Christmas.

The estate will allow Princess Ingrid Alexandra, destined to become Norway's first queen in more than 600 years if the monarchy survives, to grow up in a `relatively sheltered' environment, according to her father. Both he and his wife have said they want their children to have as normal lives as possible, even though they'll be more protected than most and able to enjoy many royal privileges.

Both Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit claimed repeatedly that they were very lucky that the birth itself went so well. Mother and daughter left Norway's National Hospital within four hours of Princess Ingrid Alexandra's arrival, and have been mostly at home ever since.

They also admitted they are lucky to have lots of help with their baby, but claimed they are trying to do most parental duties themselves.

"We want to be parents for our own children" said the Crown Princess, who added that her son Marius seems to be tackling his new role as big brother well. Up to now, he's had most of the attention, but now must share it with his royal sibling.