33 weeks-40 weeks

Baby #1 had his progress tests at the clinic when he was 33 weeks (almost 9 months). His hearing, sight, and touch were all tested. He picked up a small bead and a brick using the pincer movement (thumb and forefinger). He could support his own weight and sit up without support. Weight 20.5 lbs. length 67 cm.

This was what I described as an 'up and down phase'. He is generally fine during the day but some nights are very disturbed. He goes to bed about 7pm but wakes after an hour and doesn't get back to sleep until 9-10pm. At 9 months he had his 2nd lot of injections- triple plus polio.

Another top tooth came through around this time. Once he gets off to sleep about 8.30pm he sleeps through till about 6.30am. He now has 7 teeth- 4 at the top and 3 at the bottom.

I borrowed a baby bouncer as he likes to stand when supported on the lap. He wasn't very keen on the bouncer though. He can pull himself up using the bars of the cot and stands for a while holding cot side. As soon as he tries to let go he falls down.

At 40 weeks he suddenly became far more active. I had been able to leave him sitting on the rug like a little round Buddha playing with some toys but now he arches his back, rolls over and cries to be held upright. He pulls hair and grabs handfuls of flesh (mine not his!). Another tooth arrived (his 8th). He has started to sleep when put to bed at 7pm but only has an half hour during the day. Generally very good natured.. Has round little cheeks and very blonde hair.

Sister (Baby #2) at the same stage was sleeping well. Bed time at 6.30pm and after a bottle, she sleeps through till 6.30-7am I put her down for a sleep usually straight after lunch. This routine seems to work best at the moment. No doubt things will change again soon. She is very pretty- an alert face, big blue eyes and hair that has a tendency to curl. She gets admiring looks and comments when we're out.

Left both children with my parents for a weekend whilst we went to London. They seem to have coped well- the grandparents and the children !!!

I noted that "after eight difficult months we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel". Baby #2 is becoming more easily pleased and I am able to relax and enjoy both children.

Took baby #2 for her developmental test. She had to pick up small bricks and other objects- all of which she did perfectly. However, the hearing test did not go well. She just wouldn't respond to the noises. As we'd waited to be seen for an hour or more, she was sleepy and nodding off. Will have to return for repeat test.

We have noticed that baby #2 is trying to get up on to her knees in the crawling position. She can get around quite well, just by squirming.