Week 16: Christmas without the booze

Christmas is a strange time to be pregnant. It's that time of year when everyone drinks, eats and spends far too much - none of which I really felt I could indulge in. So it's not been particularly Christmassy for me. That's not to say I haven't enjoyed people pampering me and telling me to put my feet up but I feel I've missed out on the festive fun somewhat.

Take my Christmas party (a snap from which is below - that's me, second from the right). It was great fun getting dressed up and all the pre-party anticipation... which is why it was such a let down. There are some social events when you do need to drink - and this was one of them. In fact, I was so bored, that I left at 10pm! I'm not sure whether it was the constant slurring of my work colleagues or the fact they kept telling me it was a shame I couldn't drink or that I looked good - for a preganant women - but I was just beyond bored.

The only thing getting me through is that this time next year, baby will be here and I'll actually be able to indulge in the odd glass of champers without feeling very, very guilty.

I also really hated the whole party fashion dilemma. Being only 4 months pregnant, I'm not quite big enough for maternity clothes yet my old dresses don't fit. My top tip? Hit the cheapo shops such as Primark and buy one size bigger. The dress I'm wearing above cost me the grand total of £14 so I don't care if I never wear it again... however, I'm off to a 40th birthday party soon and so it will be getting some good use.

My other top tip? Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise. It's the only way you can stand out in a sea of smock dresses and tunics. Oh and don't give up those high heels until you absolutely must.