Megan, Em, that's what Autie was doing all of a sudden up until 3 days ago. I know some people have been very happy with controlled crying and each to their own but this book I was reading called the "Science of Parenting" describes how natural it is for babies of all mammal species to cry if left alone as it means their survival if they are not found, and how stress hormones get released when they are left to cry and build up making it very hard to sleep peacefully or resettle when they come through the cycle. (like how you don't sleep well when something is worrying you) The success of CC comes because of exhaustion or just giving up (sounds so sad doesn't it?) and may lead to changes in the chemicals and pathways of the brain making it difficult for them to feel sympathy, build trusting relationships etc later in life. I certainly don't want to make anyone feel guilty as, with all books, it could be just someone's opinion even though it is based on science. Since going completely in the opposite direction to CC, Autie has been having 3 - 4 hours sleep each day (up from about 1 1/2) I am aware that her problems could also have been teeth, crawling frustration etc., but she hasn't accomplished either of these and has settled down anyway. Even as I write this I know the crazy back-and-forth about what I should be doing might come back (do I? don't I? ) but I've just come to the realisation that things with these babies change everyday and I'm going to just do what makes us both relaxed and happy. I figure there's heaps of time when she understands more to be firmer about bedtimes and wakings. I do want to emphasize though, this is just me and my take on things and not a judgement against anyone who does it differently. Who knows? - it might all go downhill again tomorrow! LOL

Danielle, you're not alone in the night feedings, Autie always has woken at least twice and I still feed though it's BF. Maybe it's just a phase for you if he's learning new physical skills?