You never know what you're getting when you have a baby. Will it be sunnyside up or miserable, easy going or inflexible? There are lots of inborn temperamental characteristics. If your baby hasn't been exposed to any trauma (severe illness, medical treatment, abuse, unstable environment, etc.) then the mood you see is not your "fault" - it is simply the baby's genetic personality pattern. Your job will be to parent your child in the best way possible so as to help him reach him innate potential. As she grows you will get to know his individual character traits and discover that he has some advantages and disadvantages over other kids. Maybe he will be brave, whereas a neighbor's child is timid. Maybe he'll be quite bright, whereas another child has learning problems. Perhaps he will be very sensitive, whereas your niece turns out to be insensitive. Right now you are looking at only one characteristic - affect (mood) and you are only looking at it at this point in time. It may turn out that your baby grows into a cheerful toddler or he might turn into a more serious kid. Either way, he can be a well-adjusted, loving child. To help yourself through the parenting journey, keep in mind that your child's personality is not totally up to you. There are many factors outside your control. What is up to you is how you love and guide this child.   Sarah Chana