Things I Have Learned Since Becoming a MoM...

So for the veteran MoMs,  you can probably relate to a lot of this.  For the expectant MoMs, you can read about my experiences and hopefully it will prepare you a little bit better. When I was pregnant with the boys, I read everything there was to read on twins--blogs, books, breastfeeding guides from LLL, reviews on twin gear, etc.  Eric and I are the research type.  For example, we want to know everything we can about a product before we commit to buying it. When we recently bought a new washer, Eric knew everything about each brand and model of washer and made a very calculated choice. No amount of research can fully prepare you however for having two newborns.  So here is what I have learned thus far from my meager experience as the mother of 5 week old twins:

• When I had my babies' shower, I thought I would never need that many sleepers and receiving blankets.  I was very wrong.  I underestimated how frequently a clothes and blanket change is necessary due to spit up and/or leaky diapers.  It is like a baby has a stealth sense that they are totally clean and need some grime on them.  Right after a diaper change, bath and fresh outfit, baby(ies) will inevitably either spit up or have a massive BM.  While exhausting, you will find it amusing because babies are just so darn cute.
• You will need a safe, comfortable spot to place a baby(ies) in order to take care of another baby or meet a basic physiological need such as going to the bathroom.  In our house that comfortable place is the boys' swings.  We love them and the babies love them.  
• You will get so brain dead at some point from sleep deprivation that you cannot remember which baby ate or had their diaper changed last.  Maybe there are the ultra Type A personalities out there that really do keep a poop journal but I am not one of them.  As long as baby seems happy and content, then I know they are okay.
• You need to develop an ability to get into a zen like state of consciousness when both babies (or for the rock stars that have super twins- multiple babies) start crying and you do not know whose needs are more immediate.  Take a deep breath and realize that healthy babies cry.  Be grateful that you have such a problem as crying babies, do your best and don't be too hard on yourself.
• If you have perfectionistic tendencies, having twins will help you let that go.  If you don't let it go, you will cry too much yourself and miss out on the joy and blessing of having been given multiple babies.  
• You will learn to never underestimate how a cup of coffee and a hot shower can help you feel semi-human again.
• You will often hear the advice to take help whenever it is offered and it is true.  Don't think that your house is too dirty and that you have to get it to a certain level of clean before people can help (or is that just me?).  There is always laundry to be folded, dishes to do, errands to run, etc.  Take the help so that you can focus on the big picture- having the energy and ability to take good care of your babies.
• They change so quickly.  You really cannot take too many pictures.
• Create realistic and modest goals for yourself.  This will look different for each mom and family.  Right now we are happy to make it to church.  Next goal will be to be on time for church.  All the stuff that you want to do will continue to be there.  Remember that the newborn phase is such a precious and short time.  Don't feel like you have to do too much too quickly.
• Hug and kiss your spouse often.  Let them know how much you appreciate their help.  Dad is feeling tired too.  It's not a competition over who does more but rather focus on accomplishing the mutual goal of raising healthy and happy babies.
• You will never understand how you can love two babies so wholly and completely.  That love is what will keep you going. Their little personalities will be different from the beginning and you will love them for who they are rather than just loving your twins.