As Kate Middleton Turns 44, She “Knows Her Brand” and “Her Influence”

Prince William and Kate Middleton made a surprise visit to a London hospital Thursday, marking their return to official engagements after the holiday break and the eve of Kate’s 44^th birthday.

On Friday, the Princess of Wales is marking her special day as she always does, surrounded by her family and closest friends. The family will celebrate Kate’s first birthday at Forest Lodge, the eight-bedroom Windsor home where they moved last fall, probably with a homemade cake and little fanfare.