To be honest, since we had twins first, we didn't really know any different. It really wasn't until Gabby started moving around more that we asked ourselves "How the hell did we do this with two?".
The first part of this series is just about the beginning and some tips that helped us get through the pregnancy and early days.
I found out I was pregnant with the twins at about 20 weeks. I was finally getting over the actual shock of being pregnant (I was 24) and then BOOM, we were in for a total ride. For some reason they kept putting off the ultrasound, so our first was the "hey, let's figure out the sex of your baby"one. You can imagine how shocked we were when they said "there's a girl...and we think the other one is a girl too!". Ummm!
First thing we did (after the initial few days of shock!) was try to figure out what we would need. I did research on which carseats were the best and what other parents of twins thought was necessary. (The book Baby Bargains is ah-mazing!) Many companies offer freebies for parents of twins. I had a list compiled, but it has since changed. Companies such as Huggies, Enfamil, Dr. Browns and many more send great packages (think: free diapers, bottles).
Next thing: I made sure to buy diapers and wipes whenever possible. Back then, you could print as many Target coupons as you wanted, so I really stocked up there. Remember, babies go through 8-10 diapers a day. Times two! If I was having twins now, I would probably research cloth diapers more. Stock up on sizes 1 and 2, not too many newborn.
First tip:
Start keeping your eye out for clearance baby items. Fall is a great time of year to find items such as diapers, baby bath/shampoo and onesies on markdown. If the twins are your first, just start noticing different prices for brands and when they go on sale. From that research, you will then know when you see something at a stock-up price. Generally, I aim for $5 per pack of diapers, but hope for less. Signing up for coupons from all baby brands is a good idea. Make a "junk" email, though, so your inbox isn't bogged down. Next we found hand-me-downs for anything possible. If it's clean and safe, take it! Since twins are pretty tiny after birth, they can share a crib for up to 3 months. Don't stress too much about buying everything right away! The most important thing is a healthy pregnancy. Everything will fall into place....all babies need at first is love!
Second tip:
Get support! Find a lactation group (I loved the La Leche League!) and a twin mom's group. I just recently joined a Multiples group and I'm kicking myself for not doing so earlier! Also, line up friends that can help when needed. Start filling up your freezer with easy, healthy meals that you can quickly make in your zombie days. Hands down, my favorite breastfeeding book is The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. Also check with your doctor, I'm sure there are prenatal classes offered in your area. I think that breastfeeding is amazing and obviously great for your baby, but with twins I feel you need to do what you can. If it comes super easy for you, then more power to you. I'm not going to lie: it's hard! Even with a schedule or pumping, you are up all day and night feeding. Maddie had acid reflux, so she was extra fussy and ended up needing to go on soy formula. I made it to 3 months and I was proud of that accomplishment. Don't let someone make you feel bad if you can't breastfeed your twins (or singleton!)...that one of my pet peeves.
Third tip:
Create a schedule ASAP! It is hard to even think about a schedule at first, but a routine benefits both you and the babies. I highly recommend the techniques in Happiest Baby on the Block. The book is great, but the video (although super cheesy) demonstrates the techniques for you. You will feel silly doing the "shushing", but it works! Swaddling also is a lifesaver!I could talk forever, but I'll stop rambling now. I will cover more tips in the next section, including space saving items we loved and how to handle potty training (seriously, I can't find a decent twin book on that subject!). Also, since you go through TONS of clothes, which budget brands are worth it.
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| It's hard to imagine the twins this small now that they are almost 5! |
Remember: the first few months will be crazy, but they pass. And every moment is worth it!
If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover about twins, leave a comment or send an email!
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