Sarah, sorry to hear that sleep is getting you down. It's amazing how much of an impact their sleeping habits have on our moods isn't it (well probably not actually), I find that if Ash is sleeping badly I feel like nothing is going right, but if he has a couple of good naps then I think it's been a great day. I know what you mean with the chewing, I've also noticed the same thing with Ash.

Heva I love the dummy story! So cute! I think it definately shows an awareness that you have a mouth as well, he was probably thinking this is so good mum you have to give it a try. Sometimes Ash will do the same thing with food, he loves to feed me! Glad to hear you and Isaac are getting a bit of time to yourselves again, I hope your DF is enjoying the new job and it all works out well for the three of you.

Storm, Wow you're super organised! I haven't even started thinking about birthday gifts yet, but should get onto it cos it really isn't that far away is it... I love the idea of a swing set, I know Ash loves to go on the swing at the park so she's probably not too young for it. Just wish we had the space for one.

Fleur I know what you mean with the tantrums, Ash is really starting to assert himself now. He loves to climb the stairs, so he will stand at the gate trying to climb it and crying until I come over and open it for him, then he has a little excited jump.

Ryatha, great to hear from you, I've missed hearing about Fred.

Leckert, love your seahorse trick, how clever, I might have to give something like that a try with Ash.

AFU all is going pretty well. We did have a bit of a grumpy week last week though, but I think there is a wonder week at 44 weeks so it was probably that. About a week ago Ash took his first steps. He was holding on to my hands (barely) and walking so I let go and he kept going, he didn't realise until he'd taken about 4 steps and DH and I were clapping, but then he freaked out and sat straight down. Since then he's been a bit reluctant to walk holding onto my hands, but is cruising everywhere he possibly can and pushing his little walker thingy around to get where he wants to go. I think he is ready physically, but not mentally iykwim? Oh well, he'll be walking for the rest of his life so there's no rush.