Hoobley - I wasn't having a go at you? I cannot imagine how you have coped as a single parent. but as you said Definitely anything that stimulates a baby who is over tired is not good

It's so hard to NOT be personal 1. because we are mums, 2. because there is so little scientific statistical study, and so much anecdotal knowledge about these kind of issues that matter!

I suppose if we accept that stress as a baby can shape your future personality or adaptability to life, then why stop at after the birth, I do think how you are born often can "show"/shape your personality - for example my brother had his cord around his wrist and "panicked" - ie. heart beat increased rapidly irregularly and it's so consistent with who he is. My birth was also incredibly traumatic - i was born extra uterine - ie. outside the uterus and my mother nearly died. I had nightmares until age 6 or 7 that my mother and I have since discussed and completely agree is based on my birth ( they were colours and sounds and feelings - I know babies don't have memories as such) so how much of that had an affect on anything?

Christy - that makes me think too that Matilda's birth was very traumatic, which may have links to the non-genetic nurture part of her behaviour not related to the allergies? and the 3 years of milk allergy too...which is why her behaviour won't change over night as the stress inducer has gone (milk), but she has learnt those stressed behaviours?

Astrid - that was a WAY cool show I hope they keep going, and 7-up was SO fascinating too. One of my all time favourite "social commentaries". Congrats on typing and thinking coherently so close to giving birth!