Monday, December 31, 2012

The Duchess of Cambridge shines in purple Issa dress at Ottawa concert

It's been a glorious visit thus far for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Last night the couple enjoyed a concert in Ottawa as part of their official Canada day celebrations. The couple looked like any other, laughing and chatting throughout the concert. I think we were all hoping to see Kate wear something colourful and this evening she certainly didn't disappoint. Kate wore a beautiful purple Issa jersey dress.  Kate's fifth outfit change in the space of 24 hours. No easy task as any woman would know.

Once again she wore the maple leaf brooch she borrowed from the Queen. Her hair was swept back and she looked elegant as always. The couple spent half an hour at the event before retreating to a private event to watch the finale fireworks. Over half a million people gathered yesterday to see the Royal couple. In recent years I think Royals have lost the 'Wow' factor Diana brought. It is firmly back with Kate mania!


Associated Press










Saturday, December 29, 2012

William and Kate photographed at the gym together + News from the Boodles Boxing Ball

William and Kate were photographed leaving London's Harbour Club gym on the 22nd of September after working out together. Gym goers were surprised none other than the Duchess standing beside them on the treadmill. Could you imagine? Kate even looks stylish leaving the gym in a fitted black jacket and pants with a long white t shirt underneath. It's quite amazing the royal couple do go to the gym together, they are obviously very comfortable with each other. 



While it is always wonderful to see news photo's of the couple, I think we were all secretly hoping they would attend the Boodles Boxing Ball. I had anticipated they might make a surprise entrance as the ball is in aid of the Starlight Foundation, a children's charity William has worked with and thinks incredibly highly of. Unfortunately the couple decided not to attend this year. I would love to see Kate in another evening gown and she is always at her most glamourous at this event. However, Pippa managed to steal the show tonight in a slinky red dress with a plunging neckline. Pippa spent the evening chatting to ex spice girl Geri Halliwell at the event which costs almost two thousand pounds for a table of ten. For more photo's from the Boodles boxing ball and news of Pippa in general click HERE.




Looking at Pippa's dress I couldn't help but notice how similar it is to the pink Issa dress Kate wore to the event in 2008. One could certainly tell the pair are sisters. I think this is one of Kate's all time best looks.




Duchess Kate also attended the event in 2006 and 2007 wearing a similar grey Issa dress which is particularly stunning!



Finally I was reading the Daily mail earlier and saw this simply adorable video footage of William and Harry as toddlers playing the piano for a photo shoot with Charles and Diana. In the 1985 video William is encouraged to kiss Harry on the forehead as a delighted Princess Diana watches on lovingly. Charles is seeing playing peekaboo with a handkerchief to encourage the boys to look at the camera. A wonderful momet where the entire family are very happy. We often only recall the demise of Charles and Diana's marriage but obviously there were happy family times too. Diana looks stunning and radiates in her role as a mother.


 

UPDATED: I received a request about Pippa's signet ring.  Royal Reporter Richard Eden said

"The ring is a clear indication that Kate will soon be a princess. Their father, Michael, was reported to have inquired about a coat of arms from the College of Arms back in 2007. When Pippa first wore the ring it looked as though the Middleton's had found their family crest".

There doesn't appear to be a clear photo available, however I will continue to search and update!


Speaking of Pippa, judging by how close she and boyfriend Alex Loudon appear to be, I wouldn't be surprised if another Middleton wedding is on the horizon :)



Sources (Daily Mail, What Kate Wore Facebook, The Telegraph, Middletonlove.tumblr.com)

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Caring Kate shows her maternal side at EACH

Yesterday St James' Palace confirmed Kate's Patronages. Kate spent months researching worthy causes and one in particular touched her heart. Duchess Kate visited the East Anglia's Children's Hospice in November. If you read yesterdays post you'll know the centre supports and cares for children with life threatening conditions. One would imagine working with EACH would trigger an emotional response in anyone which is exactly what Kate discovered.


Kate met Grant and Charlotte Clemence whose daughter Fleur sadly died soon after birth last  May from a rare heart condition. Duchess Kate met surviving twin, eight month old Sophia. Grant and Charlotte were taken aback at how loving and kind Kate was 


'Kate was brilliant with Sophia and spent a lot of time with her. She couldn't stop playing with her and poking her cheeks. She was absolutely amazing and a totally genuine person. It was only supposed to be a short visit but she was here for about four hours. She was very emotional. She will make a very natural mother'.


Grant, Charlotte and Shophia with EACH CEO Graham Butland


EACH CEO Graham Butland was simply thrilled Kate chose to support the hospice. 

'It was such a surprise that she wanted to come and visit us, and following on from that an even bigger surprise that she wanted to become patron. We are honoured, extremely proud and thrilled to be finally able to talk about it'.

I found this story particularly touching and it gives us a wonderful insight into the 'real Kate'. Despite being beautiful on the outside it's Kate's inner beauty that shines and obviously why William loves her so dearly. I believe we are going to see Kate do trojan work with her causes. Not to mention she is going to be a fantastic mother. Kate's patronage will be of significant importance to EACH in terms of awareness and funding essential for helping families like Grant and Charlotte. To read more about the Clemence family click here. To find out more about EACH or to donate please click here.


Source (pronceofwales.gov.uk. BBC News)

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

New York Fashion Week Designers dress Duchess Kate

Following on from yesterdays post about Duchess Kate's impact on New York fashion week. I saw an  amazing article in NY mag where top fashion designers are asked about Duchess Kate's fashion and which of there pieces they would ideally put her in. Each of these looks is simply gorgeous. I love the fact we are seeing clothes on the Runway that people can actually wear, all inspired by Kate! 


Designer Jason Wu said if he could dress Kate he would put her in his blue ball dress. 'I think Kate Middleton's so beautiful she could wear anything from S/S 2012 collection and look gorgeous.'. 



John Zee, Creative director of Elle said he prefers Kate to Pippa as he loves a Queen. Zee would love to see Kate in a YSL tuxedo. 'I think she would look fantastic in that'.


Stylist, Mary Alice Stephenson said 'I'd love to give Kate a little edge. I think she's so pretty, but I think she's dressing in a formal elegant way and they need a little youthquake. I'd love to see her in Alexander Wang in Ohne titel'.


Designer, Sally La Pointe would love to see Kate wear the finale look from her show. She thinks Kate is beautiful and classic.


Designer Richard Chai said 'She looks very proper. She's doing a very good job of looking a Royal. I'd love to see her wear something colourful and printed'.


Finally stylist and designer, Nicola Formichetti thinks Kate is 'very chic'. His ideal look for Kate is a Zara Rhodes caftan. I must say I'm not entirely sure about this look for the Duchess :)


What do you all think of these looks? It's interesting to see Kate in different styles, I think the Jason Wu blue dress and the YSL tuxedo suit are absolutely stunning and would look amazing on Kate. I think Duchess Kate will experiment with more designers as time progesses and we may see her outfits like these in the future!

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Duchess Kate Reveals She 'Misses William Desperately' on Royal Visit to Leicester

Duchess Kate, The Queen and Prince Philip arrived in Leicester via train this morning to mark the beginning of the UK Diamond Jubilee tour.


Press Association


This photo of Kate looks like it was taken out of an old movie.


AP

Mayor of Leicester, Sir Peter Soulsby said 'We're a modern city that has changed most dramatically during the sixty years of Her Majesty's reign - and I think very appropriate that she should begin her tour here.'


The people of Leicester have spent five weeks preparing for the momentous visit. More than 10,000 union jacks and 1,000 metres of bunting were delivered to Leicester City Council ahead of the visit. Areas around each of the venues being visited were decorated. If interesting in purchasing your own union jack or jubilee keepsake you can visit the Official Jubilee shop.




Could anyone but Kate exit a car with such grace :)





Kate and Her Majesty applauded dancers who performed in honour of the visit. The Queen is wearing a pink outfit by Angela Kelly.



The Royals visited De Montfert University where Kate and the Queen watched a fashion show in a marquee featuring designs by four students. 










Six design students each designed a pair of shoes for Kate. The Duchess chose the dark blue pair by Becka Hunt, Below Becka poses with the shoes which were inspired by the colour of Kate's engagement ring. Perhaps we will see Kate wear them in the future :)




Kate and The Queen toured the University.




The trio  then visited Leicester Cathedral for a service.Kate greeted the crowd before the service. Over 5,000 people lined the pavements to get a glimpse of the Duchess.




The cathedral has been an important place in Leicester since 1927. It is home to several projects which aim to help asylum seekers, refugees and those living with cancer. Each year over 25,000 people visit. If interested in donating, you can find all relevant information here.




The service was attended by over seven hundred people.


A member of the crowd asked Kate how William is, She replied 'He's fine but I'm missing him desperately'. It must be a very difficult time for her at least her schedule is keeping her busy throughout William's departure. The 30 year old also said she's being well looked after.



After the service the royals will walked to the nearby St Martins House where they enjoyed a private lunch. Below we take a look at Kate's place at the dining table.




The Queen, Prince Philip and Duchess Kate signed a visitors card at St Martins house. 




Kate met with outreach worker Russell Bentley. He told the Duchess one of his role was to hand out flips flops to women whose high heels had got the better of them after a night out, Kate laughed and said 'I bet you do'. 
You can watch a selection of videos from the day at ITN Source.


Duchess Kate looked stunning in an L.K. Bennett peplum suit. Kate bought the teal Jude Jacket last November for £295. It is described as
"Femininity and unexpected detailing is key with the Jude jacket. Beautifully tailored with a nipped waist, this wool jacket features kick pleat detailing at the back and uses a soft wool feeling luxe to the touch."



 Kate also bought the L.K. Bennett Davina Dress in Teal last November for £225. The structured dress is described as
"Part of the L.K. Bennett signature collection. The Davina dress is beautifully tailored in a luxurious crepe. Elegantly designed, it's chic, gentle ruching down one side adds to the already feminine silhouette."



The Davina comes in array of beautiful colours.










Kate completed the look with the black and gold belt she last wore during her visit to Liverpool. (With thanks to Carolin)


I was hoping Kate would wear a hat today and she didn't fail to impress. Kate wore the Fairy Tale hat by milliner James Lock. (With many thanks to Kate In Waiting) The beret style hat is available in a variety of colours for £285 and can be ordered online.




Kate wore black Episode shoes. The brand is exclusively available at House of Fraser. (With thanks to Kate's Wardrobe) She also carried her black suede clutch.




Kate wore her beautiful Kiki McDonough 18ct gold and diamond earrings. They were available for €2,271. The green amethyst earrings were first worn by Kate on Christmas Day and were reportedly a gift from William.




This is one of Kate's finest sartorial selections to date. The structured suit and shorter hemline complimented Kate's tall, slender frame while the hat and accessories add a touch of 1940s glamour. Her hair and make up looked incredible. Without a doubt one of my favourites. What do you think?


Another engagement has been added to Kate's diary for this month, On March 15th Prince Charles will introduce Kate to his charity Children and Arts. This means we will be seeing Kate on the 15th, 17th and 19th. A very busy and exciting month for the Duchess.





Source (Daily Mail, Jubilee Tour, Daylife, Clarence House Via Twitter)


Look online for travel promo codes and follow Kate as she goes to upcoming engagements!

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Kate news round up UPDATED

Duchess Kate and Prince William (Am I the only one who doesn't call him The Duke?) have been keeping a very low profile and according to a new poll most people feel they deserve it. A survey conducted by Wakefield research as part of Princess Cruises' second annual 'relaxation report' found that 37 percent of Americans believe the Royal couple deserve a break from the limelight more than any other celebrities. During the Royal tour we were lucky enough to have daily news and photographs, with William and Kate taking as much time as possible to greet fans and show their enthusiasm for their role as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I for one, must admit I do miss seeing new photos of the couple but I agree with the poll.  They should be allowed to live their private lives like any other couple. I think the press (The British press for sure) respect that. Hence their reluctance to publish private photos of the couple e.g. Kate shopping at Tesco.





As the couple enjoy downtime it seems Kate has been receiving some advice from Prince Philip! After famously falling out with Princess Diana and Sarah Ferguson after their marriage splits he seems determined to ensure Kate is settling into married life and being a part of the Royal family. He even offered advice on redecorating their apartment at Kensington Palace. A source said: 'Kate is really touched. It's a sign that senior royals are keen to ensure new members fit in. Prince Philip wanted to make sure the pressures weren't getting to her. He's even been sharing fitness tips about his exercise routine with Kate. He is 90 but still tries to keep fit'. Having Prince Philip's approval is of vital importance to Kate. He is the longest serving Royal consort ever. And who doesn't want to get in long with their grandfather in law? :)






Kate graces the cover of 'People' magazine. It is an excellent edition including numerous pages of photos, articles on her style, make up and hair. A collectors item for any fan of the Duchess!





During Kate's time in Anglesey, she has been catching up on her reading. The Duchess of Cambridge was spotted at the branch of Waterstones in Kensington high street purchasing copies of 'When God Was A Rabbit' by Sarah Winman and 'The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society' by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Winman's novel about the the bond between a brother and sister features the death of Diana, Princess of Wales.
I'm sure these books will be flying off the shelves when people hear Kate has been reading them. The 'Kate' effect will do wonders for the world of publishing just as it has for fashion!

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

William and Kate enjoy pre Christmas lunch with the Royals

With less than a week until Christmas day, I think it's safe to assume we are all feeling quite festive. Even the Royal family are getting into the spirit. Earlier today The Queen hosted a pre Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace. Guests included The Cambridges, Prince Harry, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.


Roland Hoskins


William and Kate looked excited and happy as they arrived they photographed arriving at the palace. I love that William chose to drive himself instead of using a chauffeur, We can see what appears to be a hat box or a gift in the back of the car.....


Roland Hoskins

As you can see Kate looks stunning (obviously already prepared for tonight's event) The Duchess is wearing a fitted red coat, quite possibly her L.K. Bennett ami. Kate is wearing a black lace top or dress underneath.




The lunch is perhaps an informal beginning to the largest gathering of royals in years, with 27 members of the family attending this year. I'm delighted to see these new photos of Kate looking so happy. 


Love their expressions in this one :)


Roland Hoskins


Judging by Kate's hair, I know she is going to look amazing at the Sun Military Awards tonight.


See you in a few hours for the next post :)


Source (Daily Mail)

Sunday, December 16, 2012

William and Kate's Next Three Engagements Revealed + What Kate Might Wear

Hello to you all,
William and Kate's Royal diary is looking busy again - with three engagements in two days pencilled in for the end of this month. On April 25 the Cambridges will attend the UK film premiere of nature documentary 'African Cats' at the National Film Theatre, London. Narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart the 'true life adventure' tells the story of two animal families in the wild trying to survive on the African Savannah. You can watch the trailer Here.


African Cats/TheMirror


The premiere is in aid of Prince William's charity Tusk Trust, a wildlife protection charity which was established in response to 'an urgent need to halt the decline in Africa's natural heritage and find a way to combine the interests of people and wildlife alike'. William is expected to make a short speech. Last January the couple attended the premiere of Steven Speilberg's War Horse and Duchess Kate was reduced to tears. No doubt the Duchess will need a box of tissues on hand as 'African Cats' is said to be a tearjerker. 


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On April 26 the couple will have two engagements. Firstly they will attend a reception to celebrate The Scott - Amundsen Centenary Race to the South Pole. The couple will honour two British Army teams who raced across Antarctica to raise much needed funds for the British Legion's commitment to help recovering and unwell service people. William is a patron of this incredible organisation. Truly inspiring story. 

Scott Amundsen
                                       
That evening the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will attend a reception at the Imperial War Museum to launch their First World War Galleries: Centenary Campaign. For those of you interested in history or unique coverage of conflicts involving the Commonwealth the museum is a must see.

Imperial War Museum

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I am delighted about the choice of upcoming engagements and think they tip just the right balance. I'm particularly looking forward to the 'African Cats' premiere and seeing Kate in another full length gown. In terms of sartorial choices the 30 year old hasn't put a foot wrong In fact in terms of anything she hasn't Which lucky designer will Kate choose? Let's take a look at some possibilities beginning with Jenny Packham.

Jenny Packham

I'm secretly hoping Kate choose a dress by the amazing Alice Temperly. We discussed the beautiful Greta dress in this post last week and I do hope to see Kate wearing it this year. Although it could be quite chilly and she may opt for long sleeves. Below we look at the CamilleVera and the Long Draped Spiral Dress. Adore the Vera.

Temperly

Should Kate choose Amanda Wakeley, all I can say is the dress below is gorgeous. 

Amanda Wakeley


Kate's other 'go to' designer is of course Sarah Burton at McQueen. Due to the rather eccentric feel to the latest collections, a dress for Kate will most likely be custom made by Burton. I will be surprised if the Duchess chooses a designer apart from the four aforementioned British designers. What would you like to see Duchess Kate wear?

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Royal Family face funding cut!

On Friday April 29th, hundreds of police officers lined the streets along Westminster Abbey as Kate Middleton married Prince William. The total cost of the wedding is in the region of twenty million pounds. Largely due to police officers earning double time for working on the public holiday and security. One week later Ministers are planning to 'shake up' the royal finances. Treasury sources have made clear that they are planning for the Queen and her family to receive a serious reduction in their annual £39.9 million income. Chris Heaton-Harris a conservative MP said 'The royal family is a tremendous asset to this country and it is important they are properly funded. However, they would no doubt be the first to realise these are tough times and families all over the country are having to make sacrifices.

Prince Andrew's daughters Beatrice and Eugenie are reportedly going to lose their £500,000 a year security detail. The princesses, fifth and sixth in line to the throne, are set to receive protection only when they attend official events on behalf of the royal family.  Prince Andrew has fought furiously with Scotland yard over this. His argument failed because Princess Margaret's daughter, Zara Philips has no royal protection despite having a higher public profile, especially with her upcoming wedding to rugby player, Mike Tindall.  The Queen has made it abundantly clear that she wishes Beatrice and Eugenie to pursue their own careers after University, rather than go on the civil list as working members of the royal family. Prince Charles is said to be relieved by this. Andrew has become an embarrassment to the family since his controversial activities as UK trade ambassador, not to mention his ex wife Sarah Ferguson who was taped by a UK paper selling information and promising an alliance with the royal family for cash. Her documentary 'Finding Sarah' is set to air in the states soon.
With William and Kate planning state visits to Canada and California in the coming months, security is surely first priority. Kate was pictured shopping at her local Waitrose with her royal protection officer, given the level of public and media interest, security is essential for royals. However, for minor royals like Beatrice and Eugenie £500,000 annually seems quite excessive in these recessionary times. This will continue to be a controversial issue and it shall be interesting to see how these cuts affect the royal family William and Kate have refused servants in their six bedroomed Anglesey home. With a new generation of royals we may see a reduction in lavish spending.

There are many avenues which could be explored to alleviate overspending, but should security be one? Only time will tell if the reduction in protection officers will hold negative results.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Duchess Kate steps off the plane in Erdem Moralioglu dress as they begin royal tour


Reuters

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at Ottawa Airport. The couple were greeted by Canada's Prime Minister, Stephen Harper. He unveiled a special flag made for the Royal couple with Prince William's seal of approval.

Kate has made her first outfit change also. She boarded the plane in a navy outfit but landed with her hair worn half up, half down and had changed into a beautiful  Erdem Moralioglu Resort 2012 Cecile dress. Again choosing a Canadian designer. She also chose her favourite LK Bennett sledge 2 pumps with the clutch she wore to Prince Philip's 90th birthday celebrations. Anyone who changes on a plane and look that good deserves serious style points........What do you think of Kate's looks today? The Duchess has reportedly brought thirty outfits with her. The Queen who is said to be extremely fond of Kate has given her the option of taking any jewellery she wishes for the tour. I expect we shall see some classic pieces in the coming days.
The couple greeted onlookers at the airport and both appeared excited and enthusiastic about this historic visit. A young boy welcomed the Duchess of Cambridge. At the National War Memorial event where the couple paid their respects as the crowds began chanting 'We want Kate!' The couple stayed ten minutes longer than scheduled, meeting fans and Kate reportedly accepted the gift of a pillowcase made by Francine Dorian 'It's a tapestry I hope the couple will hang on their wall.'

William and Kate then arrived at Rideau hall where they were officially welcomed. William made a warm speech where he spoke of how he and Kate had longed to visit Canada prior to their marriage. The Duke of Cambridge even spoke in french and joked it would improve as they went along. Kate looked on adoringly. I love how her face is so animated and expressive. The crowds absolutely adore her. Kate mania has officially begun!

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Kate proves style doesn't have to be expensive

The Duchess of Cambridge looked stunning, greeting President Obama and his wife Michelle at Buckingham Palace this morning. The day after her wedding she left Clarence house in a blue Zara dress. Today she opted for a £175 Reiss 'shola bandage' camel dress. The Reiss website has been inundated with visitors all day with fans of Kate trying to snap up one of the dresses also available in blue.

The 29 year old teamed the dress with LK Bennett black heels and a Maude clutch by Anya Hindmarch Bespoke. Kate looked the picture of elegance proving style doesn't have to be expensive. Dispalying her tan from her honeymoon in the Seychelles, Kate looked strikingly similar to her younger sister Pippa who is never photographed without tan. Her hair was blow dried and worn down. Kate is clearly on her way to becoming a style icon, I would love to see her in Vogue. Her style is different to other royals while still conservative and classic. 
Reiss 'shola bandage' dress

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Kate's Latest Purchases + Royal Documentary + More

Hello Duchess Kate readers,
While William and Harry played polo on Saturday, Kate was spotted on the Kings Road shopping. A writer from Grazia happened to be browsing in the same shops and revealed the Duchess was wearing a pair of tight black sports trousers, a cream cropped cardigan over a white T - shirt, a pair of casual trainers and her favourite Mulberry polly push lock bag. Kate purchased two items in French Connection. (I recently read the brand was in financial difficulty, so perhaps 'The Kate Effect' will boost sales) 


Kate bought the Winter Silk Vest Top in iceberg blue. The top is currently on sale and available in a variety of colours from £27 to £49.




French Connection


Kate also reportedly bought the Tiffany Jeans in vintage wash (With many thanks to Ashley). The low rise, skinny fit jeans are $108. They have stitch detailing on the back pockets and have a faded wash. I think the jeans and top with a pair of ballet flats would look amazing on Kate, perfect casual look.


French Connection


Kate's protection officer was seen carrying an armful of bags from luxury British brand Jaeger. We mentioned the brand before as they designed the new uniforms for staff at Kensington Palace. Kate reportedly bought the Silk Printed Wrap Dress for £240. The elegant dress would be ideal for the upcoming garden party at Buckingham Palace, or perhaps Kate will save it for the tour?


Jaeger


Finally Kate popped into Anthropologie where she spent time browsing. Kate contemplated purchasing the £158 Ines Column Dress and the Luscious Langoustine Dinner Plate (not exactly the type of tableware one would see at Kensington but perhaps a fun item for a small dinner party at Anglesey :)) However Kate left empty handed. Possible future purchases in my opinion.

Anthropologie
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We all know the Royal family are notoriously private but Katie Couric has managed to get a rare interview with Prince William and Prince Harry as part of the lead up to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. In the preview William jokingly remarks: 'As I learned from growing up, you don't mess with your grandmother'. The interview also features an exclusive tour of Buckingham Palace. It airs on ABC, May 29th. You can watch the preview here.

ABC

While we're on the topic of videos. Did many of you see the ITV documentary 'William and Kate The First Year'. I thought it was a nice summary of the couple's first year together. If you wish to watch it, click on the links below :)


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This weeks issue of Hello! Magazine is packed with Kate news and photos. Love the cover photo.

Hello! Magazine
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For those of you who follow the blog via Facebook, I've had to set up a new page. For updates and general discussion on Kate please feel free to post and contribute on the Duchess Kate Blog Facebook Community :)




I have updated the 'Kate's Upcoming Dates' section on the sidebar, with a nice selection of events coming up. I'll be doing a post in more detail on them shortly.