Duchess of Sussex Shows Off Baby Bump During Last Royal Engagement Before Christmas Break

Laura Grande | December 18th, 2018

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex visits the Royal Variety Charity's at Brinsworth House on December 18, 2018 in Twickenham, England. Photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Images.

As 2018 comes to a close, it’s hard to believe that, around this time last year, the big royal news was that Meghan Markle — in a clean break from protocol — was going to spend the Christmas break with the Windsors.

Oh, how much has changed in only 12 months.

Now the newlywed Duchess of Sussex is “very good” and “very pregnant!” as she gracefully eases into her new role within the Royal Family.

On Tuesday, a solo Meghan gave locals an update on how she’s faring during a morning visit to Brinsworth House, a residential nursing and care home for British entertainers run by the Royal Variety Charity. The duchess is expecting her first child with Prince Harry in the spring.

The former star of the legal drama Suits shared a special bond with retired West End theatre actress Josephine Gordon, 87. The former thespians were enjoying a heart-to-heart over a cup of tea when the royal mom-to-be asked Gordon if she had any children. “No, I had a career,” she responded. Meghan reportedly replied with a quiet, “Yes, that I understand.”

In yet another shoutout to her adopted home in Toronto, Meghan wore a stunning grey coat by Canadian brand Soia & Kyo. She also wore her hair in a low bun that harkened back to her now infamous “messy buns” from her early months of dating Harry.

At Brinsworth House, Meghan was given a private tour of the facilities and took part in the seasonal festivities, including making crafts, writing cards and listening to Christmas carols.

The outing marks Meghan’s last public engagement before the Christmas break. On Christmas Eve, she and Harry will head to Norfolk to join the other royals at Sandringham House. Her next public appearance will be after the annual church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church on Christmas Day. And, rumour has it, Meghan might have a special guest by her side — mom Doria Ragland has reportedly been invited to join the Royal Family for Christmas. How’s that for another break from protocol?