I absolutely categorically cannot believe that Mabel is 8 months old. It’s scary, the rate at which she is changing and growing, I endeavour to savour and capture every moment.

She is yet to crawl (there has been some significant rolling and bum shuffling) but she has learnt to…wave. As one does – much like the Queen! She waves in greeting and when she hears anyone say goodbye. This has not occurred without coaching from the grandparents I might add but nevertheless, it is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life.

On the weaning front we’ve had a difficult month where Mabel actually went backwards rather than progressing. She has caught so many coughs and colds recently that she simply hasn’t been that interested in food, only milk. The last week has been much better though and she’s been wolfing down beef stew (!) and chocolate biscotti like there’s no tomorrow. That’s another thing – Mabel knows what she likes and what she doesn’t. I’ve spent many a wasted hour knocking up batches of healthy and nutritious meals only to be met with defiant closed lips and the side of her (generous) cheek. This appears to be her way of communicating “I would rather starve than eat this disgusting tasteless rubbish Mama”

Gee thanks Mabel. How about we warm up another pouch of Ella’s Kitchen cheesy pie then shall we?

After every meal I encourage Mabel to feed herself a few things, this is going along swimmingly thus far. Canteloupe melon, organic fruity puffs (like watsits only with far less chemicals I’m assuming) and the aforementioned chocolate biscotti appear to be her favourite. I’ve tried a variety of vegetables which have been met with indifference. I have NO IDEA where she’s developed her obvious sweet tooth from. Ahem.

Talking of teeth, Mabel has two in the bottom and four coming through in the top, sleep deprivation wise this stage for us has been the most difficult. On Saturday night Mabel woke up so many times crying in pain I lost count, I know it was approximately every half hour though. As a result yesterday there was muchos caffeine consumed and not a lot of anything else achieved at all. Seeing Mabel so uncomfortable is heart breaking, I’m sure many of you have been through exactly the same experience. I have been looking at toys for teething kids anywhere and other things I can do to help the situation.

Mabel continues to do well at nursery, I won’t tell fibs and say that all of a sudden I’m over the fact I ship her off a few days a week so I can work. I’m not. But she is a sunny, happy, joyful baby (bar the teething) so I figure what we’re doing is A ok. Nursery has certainly been very helpful in encouraging her to try foods that I perhaps (at least at this stage) wouldn’t have considered. Turns out she enjoys a good curry. And every conceivable type of pudding. Surprise surprise.

James and I make an effort to go out just the two of us every few weeks or so, even if it’s just for a couple of hours. As you read this I’ll be taking a rare Monday off work so we can spend the day together in The Cotswolds getting in the festive spirit and hopefully purchasing some Christmas gifts for friends and family. There will be cake involved. And possibly mulled wine.

I’m on the hunt for a walker if anyone can recommend one? Also if anyone knows where I can purchase some cute brown lace up type shoes and a mustard cardigan (!) that would be fab. I have the loveliest dress and tights from Zara and I just need the finishing accessories.

Yes, I am living my life vicariously (and fashionably) through my 8 month old daughter.

As with all of these posts, feel free to ask any questions on this stage – I’ll do my best to share my thoughts and advice. On that note, your own helpful hints and experiences are most welcome in the comments section below.

You can see all of this baby spam and more on my personal instagram account.