So you're not a teenager anymore but when you were, there was a lot of special birthdays to celebrate. Turning 16 means you can get your drivers license. Turning 17 means you can get into rated R movies. Turning 18 means you're a true adult, even though all you can really do differently is buy tobacco products, buy certain hotel rooms, and get into certain concerts. But turning 21 is quite honestly the last rite of passage birthday to celebrate when you're young. Therefore, it's a big deal and you really want to make some fun memories to tell your kids about one day (depending how crazy the night got).

For me, the hours leading up to midnight was nerve-racking because I didn't want to get sick or not remember my birthday. I was afraid I would be peer pressured to over-drink and my friends would buy me way too many shots (which did happen). However, how I took care of myself before and after the drinking occurred saved me from not getting sick or really being THAT hungover.

1. Drink Water Before and After

This is seriously so important! I drank water all day long before the night of drinking began. Then, I had a glass of water next to me with every alcoholic beverage and would almost chase every sip with water. Before I went to bed I drank a full glass of water but, be sure to sip DON'T CHUG.

2. Eat a Carb-Filled Meal Before and After

This might be even more important than drinking water but the two of them combined means you will be in tip top shape the next morning in order to continue the 21 celebrations. Before I turned 21 at midnight I had pasta for dinner. During the drinking I ate this massive loaf of garlic bread (which they give you for free when you turn 21 at Pepinos). And after my loving roommate made me rice. The next morning I was completely fine which is what I was most concerned for.

3. Take Frequent Bathroom Breaks

Okay so obviously go to the bathroom when you need to, but also try going to the bathroom when you don't think you have to because you might be surprised at how fast those liquids pile up. My favorite "trick" if you will during my 21st was acting like I had to rush to the bathroom because then everyone was satisfied at how drunk I was. It seemed like I had to rush to the bathroom to get sick or something but really I was just going to the bathroom to allow myself more time before they handed me the next shot.

4. Don't Finish the Shot

This is actually easy. It doesn't hurt to "accidentally" spill some liquor out of the glass or leave some at the bottom. Although it's something small, every little drop counts.

5. Take Vitamins in the Morning

At this point your body is just one big bloated glass of water and loaf of bread. Try taking some vitamins or Emergen-C packets to give your body some nutrients.