Ornella wrote me a couple of days ago, wondering where I'd got to. And I just found this thread: http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....rly-claire but didn't want to hijack. (And delighted Claire's been found doing nothing more dangerous than painting --- I still remember her airport trip-up with an 'ouch!')

Heavens, I miss you wonderful ladies too! Thank you so much for remembering me --- I miss all of you too, even if I hadn't realized so many of you were sharing off-forum time with me! Meredith, for one, was missing even the last time I checked in... anyone know if all's well with her?

Angie, I've been lurking and trying to keep up with your blog, though I confess I've pretty much not logged on for a fortnight, maybe more now. The forums, I confess I haven't visited in over a month. Hope your wrists are back in fine fetter (from another, older thread.)

As for my own disappearing act, no biggie---just been busy with work (festive season in full swing in India since October means magazine and newspaper offices are pretty much in hyperactive, unpaid-overtime-essential tailspin mode) and the pregnancy. I can't believe how much actual reading up, learning, checking up even a smooth pregnancy seems to occasion---not to mention the extra naps and snacks! My hat is off to Natalie for doing this thrice. I feel like I'm studying for another minor degree, though it's possibly just the result of anxious first-time parenthood.

Another reason I haven't been 'visible' is that I can no longer take photos of myself---no full-length mirror here and my 'style' has been Mostly Make-do of late. Maternity shopping has not been any more of a success since I last posted. I've just managed to use regular clothes in bigger sizes and different shapes to work out---and I'm not always happy with the results in terms of appearance, even if I'm achieved comfort and coverage. I'd have loved some ideas and feedback along the way, but with the SO also in a manic busy phase, there have been few photos taken.

On the fashion/clothing front: Currently, I'm nearly six months along and desperately seeking maternity jeans that are not pull-ons--- which are all I can find! why? is this normal where you live? And WHAT is with integrated belly bands that are a whole other colour from the pants themselves?!

Meanwhile, I'm making do with leggings and tunics (or salwar kameez, which are mostly a variation on the same theme), and a pair of oversized skirts. It's getting a bit too chilly to continue this without alterations though Grr... I need to remedy this fast or I'll soon freeze into a giant cramp this winter. But it's not yet cold enough for tights etc in synthetic fabrications (still pretty warm in the middle of the day). Transition weather added to transition sizes/shapes in professional 'high season'=quite the challenge just now!

Wish me luck, ladies, and as I head towards the last trimester, I hope to shift into a slower, hopefully more social gear again!