How can I restore deleted iCal events without removing current events?

Question

I have just discovered that iCal on my Laptop has been deleting events older than 30 days (as per the default), even though it's supposed to be syncing via MobileMe with my iMac which has this disabled.
I have made backups and exports from iCal in the past. The former, iCal backup files, will apparently overwrite the whole calendar and restore it back to that point in time, which is surely rather useless? If there's a way to use one of these files without deleting new events, then please let me know.
I did import a previous export taken in August 2007, but that still leaves a large gap.
I have also been backing my iMac up in TimeMachine for the past year - is there a way to restore my Calendar this way without reverting new events?

Answer 1

Hi crcamp1,
If you have multiple backups, your previous backup may still be available.  Details are found in this article.
Create and delete iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch backups in iTunes - Apple Support
Where your backups are stored
The folder where your backup data is stored depends on your computer's operating system. Make sure the backup folder is included in your data-backup routine. iTunes places the backup files in these places:
Mac: ~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/Backup/
The "~" represents your Home folder. If you don't see Library in your Home folder, hold Option and click the Go menu.
Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8: \Users\(username)\AppData\Roaming\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup\
To quickly access the AppData folder, click Start. In the search bar, type %appdata%, then press Return.
Windows XP: \Documents and Settings\(username)\Application Data\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup\
To quickly access the Application Data folder, click Start, then choose Run. In the search bar, type %appdata%, then click OK.
Restoring is further discussed at the bottom of this article.
Back up and restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch using iCloud or iTunes - Apple Support
Best regards,
Nubz