Saturday, September 15, 2007
Show & Tell
W: I never thought it would be us, but there we were, the "example" parents with twins in tow, in front of 15 expectant twin moms and their soon-to-be twin dads or partners. But wait a second...let me back up a bit.
If you'll recall, about a year ago here on this blog, we reported that we took Sheryl Rasmussen's (R.N.) "Expecting Multiples" class at the University of Washington Medical Center. It is a must for soon-to-be parents of twins in the Seattle area. And when we took the class, Sheryl invited some twin parents that had taken her course to come by and show that IT CAN BE DONE.
Well, long story short, this past Thursday evening, Sheryl invited us to share our experience with her new "Expecting Multiples" class. We were beyond excited to return to the class, but this time on the other side of parenthood.
The night before the class , we talked about what we wanted to share with the group, and it all came out when we started talking to everyone:
Expect bed rest. Tell your doctor what you expect your delivery to be like. It is possible to sleep with twins. You won't f---ing believe how many people say, "Double Trouble" or "You must have your hands full." Be flexible with your set up of your home and your schedule, but dammit, you must have a schedule. It's different than parenting one at a time...sometimes you must make choices between who gets attention. The Urban Mountain Buggy ROCKS. Don't be a shut-in because you have twins. Logistics, logistics, logistics. And get help: family, doulas, friends.
We were supposed to talk for 20 minutes but we took an hour. The question and answer session was great too. "What was the one thing that no one told you about having twins?"
"Seriously? No one told me how much fun it would actually be. "
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I totally agree with the "how much fun it would actually be" statement!!! At times, when my friends would be crowing about how much fun they were having with their one baby, I would have to stop myself from being obnoxious and saying "yes, and we've got TWO babies being that cute and that much fun!" It really is unbelievably marvelous!
Aina B.
You guys did a great job at the class. We definitely left there most understanding of the challenges to come, but excited at the same time. The boys are absolutely adorable!
By the way, you totally sold me on the Mountain Buggy!
Sounds like a ton of fun. It must have been quite an experience for you.
Sorry I didn't get back to you on the twin-thing, by the way. I live overseas and it was hard for me to find time to call you guys due to my load of work and the time difference. I hope it's okay. :)
--Pea
It was so good to have you guys at our class. Up until now the classes have all been theortetical, and it's easy to fall into a state of denial about what lies ahead.
But having a living breathing family in front of you helps to envisage the road ahead.
Your advice and tips were all invaluable. And knowing that you survived!!!
Thanks again for coming. Your boys are gorgeous and a credit to you both.