6 months later...accepting the "twin factor"- finally!

As most of my close friends and family know, I was very upset to discover we were having twins (a year ago this May). I didn't want the added risks and pressures as a first time mother, not to mention the financial and marital stress or raising multiples (by the way- did you know the divorce rates are DOUBLED for parents of multiples?). We are still considered "newlyweds" and wanted that time to enjoy and adapt to ONE baby...but we got twins! I had periods of excitement and joy and periods of resentment and frustration. I struggled with it thru the entire pregnancy.

Of course, I love my girls to death and they are my world. I would not trade them for ANYTHING...it was literally love at first sight. But, they came with their fair share of trying times- that's for sure!

I was mad that we had to have preemies and leave them in intensive care- something you cannot FATHOM unless you have had to do it. I was frustrated that we didn't get a "nice" entrance into parenthood and instead got thrust into being caretakers for preemies and having "double duty" on EVERYTHING. We still do 10 total bottles per day and solid feedings-- 10 bottles! That is more than one newborn sometimes takes! And, I will be doing that forever! Its like permenant newborn-duty. That is just feeding. When you start couting diapers, money spent, time, play, clothes, laundry...its a constant full time job just to keep up with them.

Yes, I am blessed. I have double the love. Double the giggles. Double the grins. I love my twins! (Hey! That rhymes!) I just have had a HARD time adjusting to life with twins this year and not getting the "norm" that most of my other friends have.

Recently, I had to adjust my mindset and let go of it. I don't have time to chat with girlfriends all day long like I used to or like my other friends do. It makes me sad that other moms have time to get together and visit or go on playdates...but, I have twins. I don't get to clean my house or cook dinner like I would if I had one baby. But, I have twins. It takes me 3 hours to try and get out with the twins only to have to be back home in less than 3 hours or plan my bottles and feedings out REALLY carefully. I don't have freedom like other moms. Instead, I have twins...the list could go on and on but you get the idea.

I have to let go of all preconceived notions and enjoy the cards I have been dealt...so, I am changing my 'tude and gonna just start going with the flow.
I have twins and I am gonna learn to LOVE that fact almost as much as I love the babies themselves!!!!