Cancel or not?

[Lookinatu]

Every year me and a few friends book a resturant close to Christmas to give us a chance to catch up, get dressed up and have a few drinks. It has been booked for a few months now however I am on maternity leave and I am feeling guilty on spending the money (expensive restaurant) when I still haven't finished Christmas shopping and my budget is tight until I go back to work.
Wwyd? I feel like I should cancel but I know my friends will be upset with me and I feel embarrassed to tell them I can't afford it.

Anyone?

Tell them you can't afford ito if you can't, you can't magic up money. You could invite them to yours one day / evening for a mine pie and glass of wine, socialising needn't be expensive. They may surprise you and say they find the venue a bit pricey too, and why don't you all go somewhere else this year. You won't know until you have the conversation

Can you squeeze your budget a bit tighter to allow you to go. I do feel that these events are worth it because you are worth it.
Is your baby here yet ? As opportunities to glam up and get out might be scarce in the months to come and this could be a happy thing to have done with your friends.

Go for a 2 for 1 pub lunch.

It's about catching up with your friend. Not a fancy meal surely?

If they were your friend for real they wouldn't mind a jot or make you feel embarrassed.

I would go as a treat before baby arrives.

Eat at home before you go, order something very light off the menu.
Enjoy your time with your friends.

Eat at home before you go, order something very light off the menu.
Enjoy your time with your friends.

Do you have a partner? Could you ask for the money as a Xmas present?
Having a baby whilst amazing is such a self stripping time I think it would be good to just feel like you for a night. Or can you just go to a bar together instead?