Thank so much to everyone for the sympathy and suggestions. I think you're right purple and coupester, it's probably time to make some enquiries with a sleep consultant. purple how much was the sleep lady? We could also try and make our own plan based on the Baby Sleep Science advice, as you did 100 (glad you've found it helpful!) but I will need some time and head space to do that. I'll talk to DH about the options, always helps to think aloud and talk it through. Also 100 thanks for the reminder to make sure DH and I both have time to sleep and rest, it's so important!
coupester
I had no idea HVs might be able to put me in contact with a sleep expert, that would be great! Thanks for the suggestion, I will ask - not hugely optimistic but you never know!
To answer your question about in-laws, DH and his family are French, and PILs live in France so can't help out unfortunately, although they would like to. They're actually around this weekend, not staying with us but will be here quite a bit, which is lovely but can also be tiring. I'm sure they will help out a bit though.
Hugh
Good point. I have come to the conclusion that I need to ask my mum for help more! I'm terrible at asking, but I did ask on Tuesday - she said she had a commitment in the early afternoon but could come in the morning, and I turned her down because it's a long way to come just for an hour or two... We needed her in the afternoon/evening really so maybe I should have said that
purple
Sorry you've had a cold, hope you can shift it soon.
And yes my hair is falling out too. My hair is one of the things that's upsetting me at the moment, it looks terrible! I was supposed to have a long overdue haircut on Tuesday, and was really looking forward to it, but had to cancel because I was ill I've rescheduled for next Saturday but that feels like ages away!
Carol
Hope DD fell asleep on the way to the cafe and you had a nice peaceful cuppa.