Clothing Organization for Two: Twin Tips

The organization challenges began even before my babes came home from the hospital.  I remember the first clothing item I bought for the babies - a Winnie the Pooh three piece outfit, neutral in color since I wasn't sure of the baby's (singular at the time) gender.  It was all downhill from there as I learned to enjoy shopping in "both sides of the store" and my Mom and Mother in Law also rekindled their passion for baby clothes shopping.

The best description I can give is that I am a "baby clothes trafficker" with new clothes coming in (fresh from the clearance racks) for future seasons, clothes too small into the keep pile, clothes heading for kids consignment sales, and of course - piles and piles of laundry.  Sometimes I feel like I can barely keep up with it all!

Despite the struggle, I've found a few solutions and strategies that have been helpful for managing their wardrobes - past, present and future.

Just as how their clothing is just too much to tackle in one day, our system is too much for even one post to handle so we're going to break it up a bit.  First, we'll cover the "retired" baby clothes.

Clothes that have been retired from our closet have three categories - each with a designated place in the babies' bedroom.

"Clothes to Keep" go into a giant Space Bag  which holds an amazing amount of clothing.  While I use the smaller sizes for other things (like maternity clothes) the XL Cubes are perfect for baby clothes because when filled they are self-standing and can sit upright. In a year and a half, we've filled three, and they are happily being stored in our garage.  While we've considered pre-sorting this by size and gender for our future "hope baby," it's just too much in an already overwhelming task so we let it be.

Here is our before and after!  It's amazing how these guys shrink down after you vacuum the air out!

"Clothes to Sell" for kids consignment sales remain on the hangers (or stack folded if coming from a drawer) and are placed into a waiting laundry basket exclusively for this purpose.

When the basket is filled, the contents are moved to the basement, where our old luggage will store the garments to be sold.  They'll be tagged, sorted into sizes and repacked.  Out suitcases are perfect for hauling the clothes to our Mothers of Multiples sale where last time I made over $300 in sales!

Clothes with Stains have a box all their own, and get a few last attempts at salvation before heading to the rag bag.  I've learned quite a bit about stain removal, but absolutely hate to give up on something I want to keep or could get a few dollars for at a sale!


Keep an eye out for our next post in the baby clothes management series on how we handle current and future clothes!

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We love Early Intervention!

It was at our four month baby well-visit that our pediatrician diagnosed Brayden with torticollis.  "Torti-whaat?" I said to myself as I gave our doctor a blank stare.  The short definition is that Brayden had a head tilt, caused by the tightness of his sternocleidomastoid mucle (the muscle behind his ear that connected to his sternum).  For us, this was likely an issue that started before birth when he got stuck in a "frank breech" position with his feet on his head while still in my belly.  So the doctor prescribed Physical Therapy and sent us on our way.  While we started our journey at the Children's Institute's PT clinic (also awesome), the twice a week appointments were especially difficult with twins. Packing up an infant, and driving half an hour away, to have a half an hour session, while leaving Julie at home, dealing with his massive reflux and my pumping schedule - urgh... the hecticness of it is making my head spinning just thinking about it!

As Brayden's head shape was also an issue, we were referred to a specialist a Children's Hospital who suggested that we get in touch with Early Intervention as a source for home based PT who were awesome in helping with torticollis issues.  As an offshoot - this specialist also recommended a helmet for Brayden's plagioephaly (wonky shaped head asymmetry) which you can read about here.

So began our experience with Early Intervention in Allegheny County.  This incredible program offers physical, occupational, developmental and speech therapies to qualifying children within Allegheny County usually at no cost to the family. For us, the process included meeting with our service coordinator who met with us, explained the program, and had us complete some paperwork.  Because Brayden already had a diagnosis, he automatically qualified for treatment, but children without this would also complete an evaluation of all sorts of elements (physical, social, and cognitive development) and if their scores fall below certain levels, they are accepted for services.

Brayden was matched up with an awesome therapist who came to our home weekly, and was truly fantastic with our son.  She would stretch his neck, find his tickle spots, do massage, and play games with him.  It was so fun that he rarely complained!  Best of all, no long hauls to the outpatient PT office and expensive co-pays.

As Julie became more mobile, we realized that her crawl was a little "wonky" as well, and she wasn't rolling over normally.  Brayden's PT checked her over and concluded that her tummy muscles were not as strong as we'd hope, and so Julie too was evaluated and qualified for services.

As the babies have grown, their needs have changed.  Now VERY active toddlers, their need for physical therapy has passed and they are strong, flexible and very physically normal.  But we have had some concerns about their speech delays.  At 18 months, they each say only a small handful of words each (5-7).  Although I narrate our every move, Brayden only says Dada, Mama, Nana, uh-oh and yum and Julie's vocabulary consists of the same, plus "hi" and "no" (a recent addition).  Neither use these words to request food, nor can I get them to say "up" or "more" despite my efforts.

So yet again, we are thankful for Allegheny County's awesome Early Intervention program coming to the rescue.  Both babies are working with a developmental therapist who weekly works with them to encourage speech through engaging play and mimicking.

Unfortunately, twin families often find themselves with similar concerns as those we've had.  Smaller spaces as well as more time sitting is a frequent occurrence for twins and multiples.  Twins are also more frequently effected by speech delays although the true reasons for this aren't well established.

If you're a Pittsburgh family looking for resources, the Alliance for Infants and Toddlers is definitely the place to call for support.  Even if you do not have a doctor's recommendation, a parent's concern is enough for them to do an evaluation.  While I'd never encourage mom's to panic, and there is a huge range of "normal" my personal belief has been "if they qualify, they need the services.  If they don't qualify - even better as they'll be fine."  I personally don't feel like there's ever a down side to having a concern evaluated for the simple peace of mind.  If you're out of the Pittsburgh area, I have tried to find a directory for you but don't see one out there unfortunately.  My best advice would be to google "early intervention" and your county as these typically run through the Education Intermediate Units.

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They are who we teach them to be

Dan spent the morning outside, edging the front landscape with a shovel and wheelbarrow.  Nose to the glass of our front window, Brayden was watching his every move.  Since Brayden is typically better listener (for the moment) I asked Dan if he'd mind if Brayden came out to "help" for a bit.  For the next two hours, Brayden was right at his dad's side, quietly watching him work.  I asked Dan how things went when he brought the extra dirt around to the woods behind out house - how he carried Brayden while pushing the wheelbarrow.  He said it was not a problem because Brayden instinctively followed along, knowing right where he was supposed to be.

Later today, I had been napping and Dan and the kids came to wake me up.  Not one to waste an opportunity to connect, Dan laid next to me for moment with his head on my chest.  We're a pretty romantic pair (amazing after twins) and I gently ran my fingers through the back of his hair and ran my hand up and down his back.  Julie popped up on the ottoman next to our bed (their stepping stool) and stood there for a second staring at us.  After taking us in, she smiled and just watched us love one another.  I said to my husband "Just look at her - she's learning how you love someone!"  and that's truly what she was doing.

At 18 months old, I have been told their brains are like little sponges, absorbing every subliminal lesson, unintentional associations and bits of social programming that surround their little lives.  While we think we're teaching body part identification, colors and animals, what they're truly learning is how they will view and navigate this world in which they are a part.

That, truly scares the hell out of me.  No really - it does.  I'm terrified of having these little eyes (and mouths and hearts) watching my every move, and LEARNING FROM WHAT I DO!  Yes, in those sweet moments, Dan and I have a great connection, but what about when I undermine his authority and question his decision - am I teaching them to respect him?  When I get frustrated that I've lost the keys and the sippy cup has spilled and there's no more milk, and someone'e missing a shoe - will they sense and inherit my stresses?  When my dogs are begging for my dinner or sitting on top of my craft supplies and I yell "GIT!!!" - are they learning to be kind and loving to our pets?  While they're not yet too talkative, what about the words I say?  Are they the words I would be proud to hear come out of their little mouths?

Today has been such a deep reminder that these children, my babies, they will grow to be who we teach them be.  And these lessons are rarely intentional, but instead the classroom exists in our own subtle reactions and responses.

I consider my faith.  How are my babies seeing me share my faith with the world?  Are they seeing God's light through me in a way that will someday teach them to seek Him and have a light of their own?

While I wish the answers to all of these things were positive, that they were learning perfectly from what I do, I know that perfect parenting doesn't exist.  We all do things we're not proud to do and "do as I say, not as I do" is a phrase that many families live by.  But I want so much more than that for them.  I want them to value who they are, because I am proud of what they have learned from me.  I want them to find respect me as I have shared values that I would be proud for them to have.

And amazingly, as I am considering how I need to become better - for their sake, I realize how they intrinsically make me a better person for caring.  |

I have mentioned to my mother how someday I want to make sure I take excellent care of her as she ages, because I will hope that my children would do the same for me when it's my turn.  I can only hope that I can impart enough kindness, integrity and patience that they will walk my path behind me.


  

Round Hill Farm: Field Trip Friday

I'm excited to introduce Field Trip Friday - a time to share our experiences at all the places we've visited as a family!

My mind reminisces every so often of childhood memories at Round Hill Park.  With a bag of stale bread in hand, I'd hop out of the car and head straight for the lake where I'd lob hunks of crust at the ducks circling in the water. My grandparents took me most often, and as a former farm boy, my Pap was always glad to see my excitement at the animals there.

Now visiting with my own little ones, I was so excited to feel the familiarity of this special place and thrilled to see some of the new updates to make the park even more fun for kids!

We made our way to Roundhill park last Friday on a gorgeous day with a few moms and kids from our playdate group.  Special thanks to Sara from curouslittlekid,com and her "20 Things to do in Pittsburgh for under $20" post for the recommendation!

We started out at the duck pond where I excitedly got out my bag of semi-fresh "stale" bread thinking that my babes would do just as I had once done and feed the ducks.  This was a bit of a "fail" (as Dan would say) as I watched Brayden, then Juile, stuff their mouths full of their bread without second thought to the ducks.  They did enjoy watching me feed the ducks though and Brayden has even begun giving us an adapted duck "quack" (more of a grunt really.)

After the pond, we visited the farm portion of the park where animals of sizes could be found!  When you first pull in, this is to the right of the entry.  A nice stroll through the buildings allowed us to see chickens, turkeys, sheep and pigs the later my kids just adored.

Although I haven't written much about my passion for photography quite yet (don't worry - it's on its way), I am learning to have an eye for great locations and Round Hill Park is definitely on the top of my list for a great Pittburgh photo session location!  It has stone retaining walls, beautiful white farm fences and even great mildly sloping topography to provide some great backdrops.  Fingers crossed we can make it there this fall to get a little session in with the kids!

After visiting the animals, we got back in the car and headed towards the spray park.  This area is to the left of the main parking lot in front of the entry road.  For us, this was definitely a car ride but you could probably walk it if you were ambitious!

The spray park is provided free from Allegheny County and features numerous water features - fountains, sprays, and a barn that periodically dumps water on those standing beneath it.

The kids had an absolute blast running through the spray and trying to touch all of the streams of water.  Even though there were a few groups there when we attended, I felt like there was plenty of room for all of us.  I'll let the pictures speak for themselves on the fun that Brayden and Julie had there!  

Just a few notes for anyone visiting in the future:

• There were a few park benches around the spray park area, but we took extra towels and a packed lunch which worked out well.  There is also a pavilion and some playground equipment nearby if you are looking for something more substantial.
• Unlike the city Spray Parks (I believe), Round Hill Spray Park does have chlorinated water.  I personally am thrilled about this as I feel like this could be kinda germy if the water wasn't properly cleaned.  Keep in mind I'm relying fully on my nose for this information so your mileage may vary.
• Finally, there are a few port-a-potties and at least one large portable stall designated for changing.  No indoor facilities are there, but this works pretty well. 

So our official review of Round Hill Park?  We loved it and can't wait to go back. :-)

We'd love for you to take one quick second and help us climb the Top Baby Blog ranks by clicking the link below!

Special thanks to Katie of Katie Fair Photography for sharing some of her pictures with us for this post!

Win It! EquityLock Protector

A long time ago, before we were married, Dan owned our house as a bachelor.  He chose our appliances with the help of Consumer Report guides, and picked out models that shined, blinked, and had fancy LED screens.  Shortly after I moved in, it seemed our curse began - first the washer, then the dishwasher then issues with the treadmill, the grill, the laptop and the fridge filter.  It became apparent that although Dan's choices were well researched, they did not stand the test of time, and he (unfortunately) did not have a backup plan.  He left the sales associates high and dry with their extended warranties unpurchased.

More recently, we do try to purchase extended warranties but what about the items already in our home?  Our original built in microwave and oven are used so frequently that it's almost inevitable that they'll go sooner or later.  That's where the EquityLock Protector plan would be an absolute life saver!

EquityLock Protector insures your six major home appliances - washer, dryer, refrigerator, built-in microwave, dishwasher, and range/oven.  If one of these items malfunctions, EquityLock will cover a repair or replacement of up to $1.500 per appliance per 12-month period. Typically, homeowner insurance policies don't offer help when your appliances break down. With the EquityLock Protector plan, you'll safeguard up to $50,000 of the value of your property and ensure your six most essential appliances are protected.



I'm excited to be partnering with EquityLock to bring our readers an opportunity to win
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Tell us your appliance woes!  Our personal worst was three weeks without a washer because of a breakdown.  Thank goodness we were baby free at the time because we would have been buried in the piles if something like that happened now!

EquityLock Protector has provided me with a free trial of their program in exchange for my post,  and EquityLock Protector has supplied information and materials included in this post.

Bringing Baby to the Beach

Update: We just posted another great tip sheet - Five Tips for Fabulous Beach Pictures!  Be sure to check it out here!

Our annual trip to Myrtle Beach is still almost two months away, but I visit very regularly in my day dreams. On our first trip with the babies, I felt like there was little advice out there for new moms taking babies to the beach and thought I'd share some things that worked for us!  Check our our top ten list of tips for taking babies to the beach!  Hopefully we made it in time for your summer vacation. :-)

1 - Consider an "Off Season" Vacation  This September will mark our third year of visiting Myrtle Beach during a time when most families have packed up and headed home.  For us, this offers weather that is much more mild (typically low 80s) and fewer beach neighbors crowding your style.  An added benefit is that prices typically dive after Labor Day, allowing us to score a much larger place in a prime location that would be out of our budget in other summer months.

2 - Stay Close to the Water Save yourself the grief and stay "oceanfront" if at all possible.  Babies are so unpredictable and frequent trips back to your home away from home are unavoidable.  We loved being able to see our beach spot from the balcony, and run up (for the millionth time) for the items we inevitably forgot on the first trip down.

3 - Find your Shade  For our first trip with the babies we brought along a dark colored EZup (generic version) which provided excellent shade.  It was large enough for our four adults and two babies and was easy to set up with two people.  I really recommend buying extra long stakes for the sand - in the range of 10-12 inches.  An alternative would be a small "personal tent" for baby but be cautious to make sure your aware of potential risks and recalls for popular brands of such tents.

4 - A Comfy Spot for Baby We brought along a "Neat Sheet" to cover the sand where the babies would relax, and staked it with the stakes that originally came with the EZup.  For anyone who doesn't know, a "Neat Sheet "is also known as a "ground cover" and is basically a tarp with a cloth backing.  They're pretty waterproof, washable and comfortable for lounging around.  We pulled the corners tight for the stakes so they wouldn't bunch, and it provided a great sand-free surface for the babies to play on.

We also had the luxury of owning the Big Kahuna Beach Chairs by Rio that lay all the way flat.  These created mini cots on which our babies napped daily.  I guess the sound of the real ocean was just as soothing as the ocean sounds in their Sleep Sheep!

5 - Bring Everything You Need for the Afternoon  Click Here to see our Beach Baby Checklist of all the things you'll want to have in your Beach Bag!

6 - Use a Spray Bottle for Sandy Binkies Our twins adore their pacifiers - especially while napping oceanfront.  But those binkies (without exception) found their way into a sandy pile and mixed with moisture cling to the plastic.  GROSS!  Our solution was a simple spray bottle of water.  Just a few squirts and all the sand blew away.  Make sure you get one with a little power (even the ones in the travel section of target or walmart will do) and they'll work magic on those sand covered binks!

7 - Corn Starch Keeps you Sand Free Bring along a sprinkle of corn starch (baby powder works also) to keep feet and hands sand free.  By absorbing the skin's moisture, sand will slide right off keeping everybody clean and happy.

8 - Don't forget the Sun Screen While I am not a sunscreen expert, I do make absolutely sure my kids are covered from top to bottom for any exposed skin.  Our regular pick is Coppertone Kids Spray because I feel like it gives us quick, even coverage without having to hold kids down to rub it in.  If you need more information on the importance of Sun Protection, download Coppertone's printable guide here.  And for Moms concerned about chemicals, Safemama offers a great guide there as well!  Remember that just one severe burn increases your little one's risk of cancer later in life - so sunscreen is mission critical!

9 - Bring Extra Diapers Maybe one of my girl friends should have told me - but I was SHOCKED to realize that Swim Diapers were for "poop only."  For a day of lounging beach side, babies are more comfortable in regular diapers.  Otherwise, you'll be surprised when that baby who has yet to touch water for the day leaves a wet imprint on your cover up!  Trust me when I say, save the swim diapers for the pool.

10 - Get in front of the Camera After reading Allison Tate's article last year about the importance of mom's capturing the fun they have with their kids, I was inspired to hand my hubby the camera and let him shoot away as I played with my babies in the surf.  Now I'm not a swimsuit model of any kind, but I never regret having the images to remember how much fun we all had together.  I look back at my own expressions of joy, watching my sweet babies explore one of my favorite places - where the water meets the land.

Looking for another great post about the beach?  Check out our Five Tips for Fabulous Beach Pictures!

Blogger Inspiration

As you may have noticed, I've been writing a lot more lately!  I was so lucky to have been invited to an incredible "Lunch and Learn" event last week and it reignited my passion!  Hosted by Heather of Diary of a First Time Mom and The Motherhood, it felt so fabulous to escape from "the toddler zone" and have a grown up afternoon.

I was so incredibly impressed with the bloggers who were brought together for this afternoon of learning and fun,  We enjoyed a lovely lunch, and met together to share our writing experiences.  I was so humbled to realize that many of these women have been blogging for years, have made true life changing impacts on their readers, have made incredible partnerships, and many write every.single.day.

And while I felt like the blogging baby in the room, I remind myself that "a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."  I hope you'll follow along as I begin my steps - day by day to bring My Tales with Two to a level that will bring you coming back for more!  I can't guarantee daily posts quite yet, but I can promise things will be much more regular around here!

Check out Heather's post at Diary of a First Time Mom to find out more about all of the amazing Pittsburgh Bloggers that were brought together, and see pictures from the event!

What topics would you like to see My Tales with Two cover?  Do you have a motherhood or twin challenge your curious how we managed?  I'd love to hear your ideas!


And as always, we hope you'll consider voting for us at Top Baby Blogs linked below!
  

Beach Baby Checklist

I am SO excited to be working on some tips we learned last year when taking babies to the beach for the first time. Don't forget to checkout our 10 tips to bringing baby to the beach post here! Beach Baby Checklist of all of the things to pack into your beach bag when toting infants or toddlers down to the ocean!

Here are some must haves, as well as some of our personal favorites when heading to the beach with babies!

• Beach Bag:  We'd recommend something large enough to include all of your junk, but ideally would have a zipper to keep sandy breezes from coating your gear.  A favorite is the Super Organizing Tote from Thirty One Gifts!  With lots of pockets and a zipper, it's got all of the requirements for a perfect bag and comes in cute colors!
• Towels (one per person)
  
• Beach Chairs (one per adult): We love our Big Kahuna Beach Chairs by RIO which can lay flat to accommodate a sleeping baby!
  
• Neat Sheet or Blanket to provide a clean surface
  
• Sunscreen: Kid friendly spray's keep little wigglers sun safe without the struggle
  
• Sun Glasses: We adore Baby Banz for sunglasses that stay on and protect little eyes. It did take some convincing for the babies to keep them on, but now they love them!
  
• Small Cooler: For milk, or juice during hot days (and maybe your diet coke or beer).  Choose resealable containers to prevent spills and keep sand out of beverages.  Freeze a bottle of water to use as an ice pack, which doubles as an extra drink when it melts!
• Food: Kid friendly snacks like cool "squish pouches", cut fruit, cereal, cheese or any other favorites!
  
• Baby Hat
  
• Swim Diapers and Regular Diapers
  
• Change of Clothes for Baby
  
• Ziplock Bag: For wet clothes
• Plastic Grocery Bag: For dirty diapers and trash
• Pacifiers for Nap and Spray Bottle with Water
  
• Light Blanket for keeping sand away during naps.  We like Aden and Anis's muslin swaddle blankets which we use for everything!  They're large and light and perfect for summer. 
• Corn Starch or Baby Powder
• Sand Toys: Our kids favorites were a simple sand bucket, shovel, rake and molds.  At only 9 months, they weren't able to use them in the traditional fashion but enjoyed moving the sand around with the tools and dumping it out of the molds.
• Flotation Device or Baby Intertube if desired for pool
• Book or Magazine for Mom
• Camera to capture those special memories

Is there anything I've missed?  Comment with your Beach Baby must haves and I'll add them to our list!

Click here to read our full post of 10 tips for bringing baby to the beach!

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A Mama Uniform

I'm ready to throw in the towel and go naked.  Well - not really, because that would be inappropriate, but I'm throwing my hands up in surrender as the fashion gods clearly hate me.

While I was never a "fashionista" and was proud to shop the clearance racks through middle and high school, I found favorite stores in college and in my early career that kept my wardrobe on track.  The now defunct B. Moss offered classic, quality styles that were more "grown up" than teen clothes but weren't things my mother's generation would wear.  Deeper into my career I fell in love with the quality pants of Ann Taylor, upscale casual of Banana Republic and the reliable standby's of Gap.

Pregnancy brought the maternity clothes, to which my response was kinda "eh - no one looks good pregnant" but secretly I loved the excuse to wear comfy clothes and not worry about my belly "pouch."  Two babies was a great reason to let it all hang out!

My struggle with my wardrobe really began when the babies were born, and here we are 18 months later, still facing an uphill battle.

After delivery, I was down 20 lbs from my pre-pregnancy weight coming home from the hospital, and lost another ten breastfeeding.  Although my body had changed with my weight distribution, my shorts could still zipper and my tops fit fine.  A new fashion plague was upon me - reflux.  Brayden threw up so often (leaving oily stains in his path) that I could barely justify new clothes and stocked my closet full of solid colored crew necks from Kohl's.  Along with yoga pants, these became staples of my new Mommy Uniform, and remain my most commonly worn outfit to this day.  I even joke with my friends that my style is Yoga Homeless, as explained in The Naked Redhead's fabulous video.

But there's so many days I now want more.  Joining Dan for his ten year reunion, I became so frustrated with my lack of appropriate attire that I spent a whole evening crying.  The pounds had crept back on since I put away my  breast pump, and my "real clothes" were again hard to button and I certainly didn't look good in them.

I have the best husband in the world, who has blessed me with the command to "get out there and shop" - no limits, do whatever I need to do to feel better.  I started with a subscription to weight watchers, and now 15 pounds lighter, I'm sitting comfortably in new eating habits and more comfortably fitting clothes.

But the problem remains that Ann Taylor is no longer appropriate for my day to day, but Yoga Homeless is not cutting it either.  I'm ashamed to say it, but I have a terrible fashion secret that I need to "get off my chest" (literally).

I am still wearing my nursing bras - 17 months after my kids failed to nurse.

Yep, you'll have to bust out the magnifying glass to read that one.  Seriously though, I wish Stacy and Clinton from What Not to Wear could sweep me off my feet and into some magical dressing room with piles of clothes that fit and look good.

My sad reality though is that after spending a whole day looking at stores in Grove City, and a good hour of shopping at TJ Maxx, I couldn't find a single garment that interested me.  It's that rough spot where you have no idea what you're looking for, but lots of ideas what you're not looking for.  So how about you?  Where are your favorite "mom friendly" places to shop for casual yet fashion forward clothes?  Somebody's got to fill this girl in!  

Buggy Bench Review

I recently posted about how I get out (and survive) with twins and one of our favorite accessories is the Buggy Bench.  It is a "must have" product for twins, and would be awesome for any family who has two children very close in age.

I was so lucky to have come across the the Buggy Bunch when I saw a Twiniversity's facebook post asking twin parents about their favorite product made for multiples.  I was curious about the title, and googled!

So what is a buggy bench?  It's an awesome strap-in seat, which secures into the basket of almost any regular shopping cart, and ensures a "back seat" for a second child.  It suspends a few inches over the bottom of the basket, keeping little bums comfy and safe.

The seat is cloth with a little structure in the back, and has four straps with clamp-like buckles which are really secure when wrapped around the rim of a shopping cart.  It does take me about five minutes to get it right where I want it, and get the child all settled, but boy is it worth it!

The seat includes safety seat straps, which buckle around the child's waist to keep them seated - which is one of my biggest "pros" in comparison to just seating a child in the basket.  The seats come in a variety of colors, are washable, hold up to a 40 lb child, and in my opinion are of very high quality.

Brayden in his Buggy Bench

The absolute best thing about the Buggy Bench is that it allows families to take only one cart, and get a significant amount of stuff (placed around the child in the basket).  I have tried the two cart push-pull and the stroller/cart combo - both of which were a major fail.  This seat truly gave me the freedom to visit stores which don't have double carts!

While the seat and child obviously prevents you from getting a very full overflowing load of groceries - reality  is (at least in our world) that impatient toddlers don't allow you the time to do that much shopping.

I would definitely recommend the Buggy Bench to anyone who is struggling to take their twins shopping, and think it would be most appropriate for babies 10-12 months and older.  It would make a fantastic addition to any twin baby registry or as a gift for a twin baby shower!  Available at http://www.buggybench.com/!

Disclaimer:  This review is my own opinion and is not sponsored or endorsed by the makers of The Buggy Bench.  I was not receive any form of payment for my post.

Out and About

Last time I posted I promised I'd share my "out and about" experiences with my babes.  It's been a while (yes I know) since I posted about getting out of the house but hopefully, on this Twin Tip Tuesday, I can share a little bit about how we survive when we leave home.

In some ways, I must admit, my kids do pretty well.  At 18 months, they sit through restaurant meals with only an occasional crank, and hang out at target like a pro.  I like to think that that is somewhat due in part to the things I'm doing "right" along the way - but possibly just a fluke.  We do have our challenges though - Julie is a major flight risk right now, with legs ready to run but ears not ready to listen to "stop" or "no" or "JULIE!!!"  We take more adventures than most though, and so we've developed some tactics to make it a bit easier.  Here they are - in no particular order.

1 - Timing is Everything.  Tell me an hour on the clock, and I can tell you the temperament of my children.  There are these beautiful windows though where all seems right with the world and outings work SO much more smoothly.  For us, right after breakfast, right before lunch - when they're awake and full and diapers are dry - seems to be perfect.  After nap, when they've had a chance to get their diaper changed and munch on a snack is a similar window.  That's not to say that we NEVER leave the house in the afternoon, but I try to avoid it at all costs because I know sleepy/hungry/cranky babes lead to a miserable/embarrassed/frustrated Mama.  Find your window and make the most of it!

2 - Be Prepared to Entertain.  I'll be posting about my current diaper bag in the near future, but I'll share now that it is stocked FULL.  I have a container of toys that are small, portable, and hold their attention that they only get to see when we're out.  Sitting at a restaurant, hanging out at target, waiting in line for groceries - these toys offer just the right bit of novelty to keep them from hollering on high.  Some folks might have issue with my methods but my tablet is the all out in entertainment.  We especially love the Peekaboo Barn App (also from itunes) to keep them occupied wherever.  And I'm almost ashamed to say, the Bubble Guppies.  Yes, I'm well aware that the APA recommends no electronics before the age of 2 - but most of the APA never tried to take two 18 month olds shopping or out to dinner.  Our kids are just the right age to start using Busy Bag activities, and I'll be sharing more about those are in my Busy Bag exchange post in the near future!

3 - Snack at Hand.  My bag is also packed with food bribes snacks to keep them satisfied.  Before a meal out, we start with an "appetizer" of cheez-its, string cheese, or apple slices.  Nothing original about that I'm sure.  What IS original, is using mini MnMs to keep the screaming toddlers at bay while at the Optician's office.  My disaster of an eye appointment (hubby couldn't get back in time, couldn't reschedule) was salvaged by jumping out of the chair every minute or so to give the kids another MnM.  Is it the healthiest option?  Of course not - but it works for us (and all the folks around us who don't want to hear my kids scream).  Our local grocery chain even helps us out with this by offering free cookies to kids - a special treat to keep them busy while picking up the necessities.

So when we're out and about, playing with our special toys and eating our snacks, we ride in style.  Obviously with two, you learn to visit stores with double carts.  These usually work well, but there are so many stores that don't offer these options.  Our solution - The Buggy Bench!  Be on the lookout for a full review of the buggy bench soon, but we absolutely love this basket tethered "back seat" which keeps one kid in the front, and one in the basket, with everyone strapped in.  I've attempted pushing a stroller and dragging a cart, and pushing/pulling two separate carts.  This is BY FAR the best solution for Twin Moms or moms of multiple kids close in age.  Brayden is my back seat rider and he absolutely loves it.

That's about it for now, but I'm sure this post will be updated over time with links and new tips as things change daily in our world!  Happy Twin Tip Tuesday!

Twin Tips: Getting Out of the House

I was so spoiled for the first 9 months that my mom lived with us that I didn't get the full "twin experience" until she moved out I don't believe.  But once she was gone, I felt it full force, including that terrifying feeling about how I'd ever take them out - A L O N E!

Our first attempts to make it to the car together were just quick runs to my mom's house, so we were okay still wearing our sleepers with bed head.  And then one day, I braved the adventure of actually taking them into a store alone.  It was Kohls, and I ran in, looked around uneventfully, and left without even buying anything.  But I had so much pride in my accomplishment you would have thought I'd run a marathon!

It's been about five months since Mom went back home, and with two now "walkers", it's still a bit tricky to get them to the car but getting easier every day.  I thought I'd document for you our process in the works!

On any given day, we're heading out to a doctors appointment, a play date, or lunch with a friend.

I start by getting them changed and dressed on the floor of the living room.  This works best for us because the room is enclosed and they can't get too far.

I get them both in my arms, and haul them (and only them) to the car.  I slide open Brayden's door first (because he's the likely runner) and place Julie on the floor in front of his car seat (bum to carpet with my knee between her legs so that she doesn't fall out) and secure Brayden into his carseat.  Then it's Julie's turn.  I open the garage door, start the ignition and get the heat or air running.  [On really COLD days, when I'm feeling nice, I'll run down before they get dressed and pop a few blankets into the dryer first which I then get out and put on them at this point.]  If it's time for a sippy cup, we get that now too, and make sure we have a binky for each.

And I KNOW this is probably controversial, because yes, there is some possibility that someone could hijack my waiting minivan from the garage, but I do run back in, and grab my keys, phone, sunglasses, purse etc and run back down.  I choose this route as it seems easier than loading the car with the kids crying and screaming abandoned in the living room, and then trying to calm them down enough to get dressed.  The risks we weigh I guess.

Finally, I make it back to the car and away we go.

When we arrive, I start with the stroller if we're using it, and load child A- and then push the stroller to child B's side to load them.  No real order here, whoever is dressed warmer gets out first.

Another controversial things here - we don't wear coats.  I don't personally hardly ever, and I believe Julie has inherited my high pain tolerance so she should be okay too.  Brayden - well... sorry bud...  It is such a struggle sometimes to get out the door that I can't even fathom getting them on - to the car - off again - out of the car - on again - into the destination - and off again.  It's just not worth it.  And kind-hearted grandmas sand older mothers scold me all the time and even stop me to ask "aren't you putting a hat on that baby?" and I just say "oh they'll be fine" and scurry off.  My comeback of choice will be "I'm training them to be Eskimos  but I haven't had the nerve to really use it yet.

So back to our circus... If we're not using the stroller and are going into the store, I stuff my keys phone and purse into the diaper bag, and throw that over one shoulder.  Find the two shopping cart covers, and stuff those under my arms.  Grab Baby A, and then go around to Baby B.  THIS is tricky now...  I unhook Baby B with one hand and do my best to get them unstrapped.  But since they can't really lean forward to get out on their own I have to do some maneuvering.  I lean in baby A  so that he balances between my forearms, and pull baby B out with my hands.  Then I somehow split them to either hip, and shut the door.  I can't explain how that part's done... it's a mystery to even me.  And - sorry... I rarely lock my car door.  If I'm really having a great day, after getting Baby A on my side, and opening Baby B's door, I'll open the passenger front door and push the lock button before getting Baby B out.  Using the remote lock on a Toyota with the door still open doesn't work (just irritatingly beeps) and once both babies are in my arms, searching for my keys is a no go.  So if you see a gold toyota sienna in the parking lot, try the handles!  You might just be the winner of my back seat video system.

If we're going to a restaurant, which happens occasionally, we're even more wild when you replace the shopping cart covers with two booster seats.  We don't like germs, so bring out own seats everywhere with no regrets - other than the challenge.  (In case you're curious, the ones we have are the Fisher-Price Healthy Care Boosters)  It's a bit bulky and you are likely to bop some unsuspecting diner on your way to your table, but boy do you feel like super mom as everyone gawks with horror admiration.

So that's our "how to leave the house with twins" spiel.  It's scary at first of course, and undoubtedly difficult at times.  But then you remember, how lucky you are to have twins... I dare to ask - which kid would you rather have given away to have your hands less full?  Impossible to answer (on most days).

Tune in next "Twin Tip Tuesday" to find out how we manage our time out and about with two!

Dress 'em Up

I'm not ashamed to admit that my kids wear clothes from consignment sales.  Why not?  They seriously wear them for 3-6 months max, and then they've gotten so stinkin' big that their tummies and ankles are beginning to show.  We go to about 4 sales a season - some on half price day and some on their regular sale days, in order to fill our closets (maybe a little too abundantly).

As these sales begin in the next few weeks, I think back fondly to last year's post - Ten Tips for Kids Consignment Shopping Success and thought it was worth re-posting.

This weekend, I'll actually be co-chairing our Mothers of Multiples spring consignment sale, and once it's totally finished, I'll come up with a list of tips for Consignment Selling Success for when your full closet needs emptied.

Enjoy!

Twin Tip Tuesdays

I have been trying to find time to blog a little more lately and am thinking that having a regularly scheduled post will help me keep with it.  When I thought about why unique thing my blog has to offer the world, I really think our twin experiences are what set us apart from all the other million "mom bloggers" out there.

So here it is - the premier of Twin Tip Tuesdays.  Each Tuesday, I'll share a little something that helped me along the way, a review of a twin pertinent product, or an issue that focuses on twins.  Usually these will apply to everyone else too - especially those of you who continue to say "I don't know how you do it!"  Well now you'll know...

My first Twin Tip Tuesday recommendation is to find a support group.  I know I know - your kids are such a handful that you can hardly get out of the house (stay tuned for next week's tip) but it's really really worth it!

I joined a local "new moms" playdate group probably around when my kids were three months old.  And it wasn't until they were eight months old that I was brave enough to take even one of them out of the house alone to spend some time with other girls.  It was that bad!

And is it a challenge?  Sure... I had one of the other moms tell me "oh I have two kids so I understand" when I was trying to explain.  No offense - but you don't understand.  Your three-year-old can walk on his own, listen to "stay right there" and climb in and out of his booster seat alone.  Mine - not so much.  Having two kids at the very same stage IS very difficult - especially when that stage is one of much reliance on Mom.  My point is, I feel your pain and hesitation.

But once I dived in, and got to know these wonderful girls, I couldn't imagine my days without them.  We're very active on facebook and chat about everything related to motherhood - kids, dinner, husbands, Mother-In-Laws, breastfeeding, diapering, who needs to visit the doctor and who achieved what milestone.  I am especially lucky that almost all of these girls have kids within a year of my twins age so we have a lot in common.

Having mom friends is SO important to have a sounding block.  My mom remembers having kids, but isn't "in the trenches."  My girlfriends who were in my wedding are still very very important to me (love you guys) - but they have their limits to what they want to hear.  Will they watch a video of your little darling dancing?  Absolutely.  Spend a few minutes talking about what the kids are eating lately? Sure.  But going into the gory details of diaper duty and analyzing the details of immunization schedules?  Not their deal.

It's awesome for the kids too.  Brayden and Julie know all about playing with each other, but I never realized how outgoing Julie was until I let her run wild with her playgroup friends.  I've discovered that Brayden adores running with other little boys and just glows like I've never seen him before.  We get out with them once or twice a week, and it's GOOD to leave the house - especially when it gets a little overwhelming being at home.

Finally - it's good for Dad.  How you ask?  Because Mom's Night Outs are the perfect opportunity for him to spend an evening with the pair of wild children and gain a little appreciation for what you might struggle with every day.  This is only my opinion but - they're his kids too... You shouldn't have to "ask him to watch them" just as he doesn't ask you when he makes plans.  Communicate obviously, but I'm a firm believer that twin Dads need a taste of twin chaos from time to time to be reminded what an incredible breed we twin moms are.

My playgroup branched off of babycenter.com so that's a resource to check out as well as meetup.com or MOPS and MOMS.  Find your place and settle in!

Don't forget to check in next week when I share our process for getting out of the house with two.  A wild ride indeed!

So Big...

I laid there in bed tonight, waiting for Brayden to fall asleep, staring at his little toes.  "Little" being the operative word as they are no longer "tiny."  When did this happen?  I have been sorting through last summer's clothes for our upcoming consignment sale and even clothes from nine months ago seem so small.  Everyone says to capture each moment in your heart as these "baby days" are fleeting.  Each day they must grow such a tiny bit that it truly has snuck up on me.

Looking at pictures, I'm shocked at how their faces have changed.  Brayden looks like a little boy already, and Julie's baby face has thinned and become more feminine with her lovely wisps of curl.  It's incredible really.

And while I reminisce over the memory of these tiny beings, I wouldn't replace these days with those days for anything in the world.  Julie has learned to blow kisses and immitate Dan's "evil laugh" (think "mwa-ha-ha-ha").  Brayden's independence is remarkable, but I have to admit that I love the moments where he turns back to me for security.  He adores playing with other boys especially.  Their rambunctious chase just speaks to the boyish spirit within him.  Julie has begun to snuggle which was so unlike the baby she used to be.  Brayden adores his Dad and is so busy putting little people in every hole and crevice.  They both love the dogs.

Yes these days are some of the best.  And so it's been my nightly prayer that I can work to always put them first and not miss a moment.  I'm always busy... I'm a do-er, not a watcher, and sometimes find it difficult to not be in the middle of a project.  Lazy days are just not in my nature.  So staying home I've filled the gap with playdates to plan, consignment sales to coordinate, and GiggleBuzz which certainly keeps me busy preparing for my first upcoming craft show.  It's so easy to focus on my to-do list and forget to sit and play, read, sing and dance with them as much as I should.  Maybe working moms aren't the only ones struggling with balance.

But those tiny toes, now transformed into little feet, remind me how quickly they grow and that I'm blessed to be witness to every moment.

GIVEAWAY from GiggleBuzz!

I've written in the past about how there are SO many things I've wanted to do now that I am home.  And sometimes the choices are overwhelming!  In the past few months, I have really been focusing on my hair bow making, and am excited to finally launch my business - GiggleBuzz!

I've been so busy making lovely little bows and bow ties that I thought it was just about time that I share my newest passion with you.  Here's some of my favorite items!

In honor of our Etsy launch, we are hosting our first ever giveaway and hope that you'll enter!  Just use the rafflecopter widget below, or visit http://bit.ly/T8dRmI.  The winner will receive their choice of prizes! 

Option 1: Any two Adjustable or Clip Bow Ties
Option 2: A Korker Hair Bow, Shamrock Ribbon Clip, and pair of pigtail bows.

You can even enter directly via my facebook page!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway ends February 8th at 11:59 PM EST. Open to Residents of the US only.  Prizes cannot be shipped to PO Boxes.  Winner will be selected by Random.org and be notified by email. Winner have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected.  Facebook, Twitter and Google+ are in no way associated with this giveaway.  By providing your information in this form, you are providing your information to me and me alone.  I do not share or sell information and will use any information only for the purpose of contacting the winner.

Meet Brayden at One

You've already met Julianna at One so I thought it was about time to tell you more about my sweet Brayden.  He too has come a long way since I wrote about my expectations for him when I was pregnant!  

Brayden Harrison

Nicknames: Bray, Bray-Bray, Brady, Prince Charming, Brady-Boy

Size: Currently wearing 12 months
Favorite Song: Old McDonald
Favorite Food: Grilled Cheese
Favorite Toys: Gymnic Rody Horse, Little People (especially Princess Ariel), VTech Spin & Learn Top, LeapFrog My Pal Scout
Favorite TV Show: Bubble Guppies, YoGabaGaba or Spongebob (not that Mom is too fond of the last one)
Favorite Animal: Giraffe
Vocabulary: Mama, Dada (which has evolved to Da-ee), Nana, Baba, Bap, Uh-Oh
Tickle Spots: Inner Thigh, Right under Ribs

Brayden is a rambunctious, snuggly and hilarious little boy.  He is on the brink of learning to “run” and loves to walk in a room, catch your eye, and run out – only to repeat time after time for minutes on end.  He loves to laugh and has this contagious giggle that not even the most stoic could resist smiling for.  The most random things will get him going – the word “hundred,” a fake sneeze or hiccup, Mom crying hysterically, Dad bumping his head on the chandelier, and “alligator chomps” are some of his favorites about which to laugh. 

A warm, fluffy bed is “his spot” especially snuggled in between his parents.  He can have a conversation with his eyes and is such a little “flirt” when it comes to all the ladies he encounters as we go out.  He surely has his daddy’s charm.

Brayden is intense and at times can have a temper.  It’s obvious that he knows what he wants, and gets frustrated when it doesn't work how he expects.

 

He loves to carry around a balloon, and to pull ribbon off the spools.  He dances to every song he hears – bending his knees and bopping up and down.  His soft voice will sing along to a lullabye or song on tv when he’s getting drowsy.  He loves princess Ariel’s red hair with a passion and we joke that someday he’ll marry a red-head. He is my little Irish imp that stole my heart the moment our eyes met.  I am so incredibly lucky to be his Mom.

Meet Julianna at One

As our blog "restarts," I thought it might be the perfect time to reintroduce each of my "two."  Since she is technically my oldest (by one minute) I'll give you an update on Julianna first.  How far she's come since I last introduced her, about a month before her birth!

Julianna Marie

Nicknames: Julie, Julie-Bean, Beanie Baby, Beans, Princess, Beaners, Honey Bean (basically anything BUT Julianna)

Size: Currently wearing 18 months - will update with height and weight after our upcoming doctors appt.
Favorite Song: You Are My Sunshine
Favorite Food: Mandarin Oranges
Favorite Toys: Gymnic Rody Horse, Fisher-Price Little People Disney Princess Songs Palace, Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Learning Home
Favorite TV Show: Bubble Guppies
Favorite Animal: Dogs
Vocabulary: Mama, Dada, Uh-Oh and most recently "Hi"
Tickle Spots: Shoulders and Feet

Julies' spirit is just so joyful, silly, and spunky.  She always has a smile, and is filled with wild noises.  She loves to hold her hand in the air and holler like she's proclaiming something for the world to listen.  Julie's born to be a performer, hopping on every "stage" (ie box) that she can find.

She just began walking a few weeks ago, and is already tottering around everywhere.  She's a girly girl with bows in her hair, and pretty dresses, even giving us a "twirl" in her Christmas dress.  Julie despises socks, and likes shoes even less.  "Bling" is one of her favorite things, as is every texture of fabric that she comes across.  Julie's giggles are the most beautiful noise in the entire world.  God made her so perfectly, just for me. :-)

A Long Time Coming

This post has been a LONG time coming.  Last week, we celebrated the twins first birthday.  I feel like shouting "WE MADE IT!" from the highest mountaintop.  In the same way though, it is bittersweet to think that each new step my babies take is one of independence and the beginning of their own life journeys.  It has been an amazing year watching them transform from these little needy lumps (don't judge - that's basically what they were), to these incredible tiny people with their own ideas and true emotions.

While our year seems to have gone so slowly in some ways, it's flashed past in others.  One of the biggest sunrises for me is my own personal growth within this past year.  I've gone from a perfectionist with a major need for control, to a ... ... ... person who really misses perfection and still struggles with these feelings of being "out of control."  Needless to say I have lots of room to grow!  And despite my mother spending the best part of a year with us (I just couldn't let her go until she'd been here a whole nine months), I can hang my hat on the past four months of getting through each day with my kiddos and finding a strength that I didn't know I had.

Sure, there were moments of frustration and feelings of being overwhelmed.  But they are so overshadowed by the total bliss of feeling my babes unconditional love, watching their successes, and seeing their twin bond really begin to blossom.  They are such cool little people and I am so fantastically blessed to be their Mama.

As we begin our second year as a family, we also cross into a "New Year."  One of my resolutions has been a recommitting to my blog in order to capture these moments for my kids, to connect with other moms, and share our experiences.  In the past months there have been so many things I've WISHED I could have blogged about, but they seemed so silly and the hurdle of writing too great.  A fresh start is surely in order.  It's so easy to focus on the time lost between posts, that the black hole of absence begins to swallow your potential posts.  I may have missed recording some of our time, but instead I was busy living it.  Better late than never though right? While there's lots of work ahead to "restart" My Tales with Two, I'm looking forward to the challenge.