The baby is finally not sick and is in care, and mummy is able to take some time to just be. To sit and have quiet time.
The school holidays were crazy. Well, not all crazy, but some of it was just chaotic.
There were some nice moments of sleeping in, not having to be anywhere and staying at home, plus spending some nice time with the kids was good.
There always seemed to be something happening. One kid fighting, one kid hurt or hurting the other and then the arguments. Oh my gosh! As the mum of three kids, it seemed that no matter what was going on it was hard to keep up. I was constantly exhausted.
Do you find this? Trying to entertain kids at all times is difficult. Once you think everyone is happy and playing it then all changes and you are back to sorting out a disaster.
A disaster could just be someone throwing out a drawing or not playing the game they want to play. Simple things but huge dramas to a little kid.
During the holidays the twins flew to Coffs Harbour to see their grandparents. The girls were unaccompanied minors and they got on a plane all by themselves. This was a huge step and a great thing to foster their independence.
This was one of the weeks that I was really looking forward to. While the kids were away I thought that the baby would be in care, and I would get so much done.
Fast forward to the actual week that the twins flew to visit the grandparents and of course Alexander was ill. Yes, this was the week that my little boy was very sick.
No child care, he had to have mummy and now the week that I so desperately was excited about was not great. My time alone was non-existent.
I did feel like it was a horrible conspiracy. No, you can’t have time to yourself….. ever! Yes, I know that the baby did not plan to be sick and these things just happen.
However, why do they happen on the week that the older kids were not going to be home? Why couldn’t this have happened the weeks before the girls flew to visit their grandparents?
How did you fare during the school holidays? Did you have fun? Did you get driven crazy by the kids?
Now that school is finally back I hope that you are having a well-deserved rest.
If you are busy at work you might need to wait for that rest, but I’m sure work is a change from looking after kids during the school holidays.
I’m happy about school going back but I miss sleeping in, and not having to be anywhere important was nice while it lasted.
Doing your own thing was good, and I must say that I’m not really in back to school mode just yet.
How are you doing now that school has gone back?
Sign up for my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up for my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
School goes back for my twins at the end of January. Part of me is excited that they will be starting a new year of learning, and part of me is realising that time is flying.
The girls starting school last year. I’m sure they will be this excited this year.
There is also another part of me that likes the fact that they will be at school so that mummy might be able to get a few things done….. I know many parents do rejoice when school goes back so I might not be the only one doing a happy dance.
Although with school going back the routine returns. Lunches have to be made, bags packed, school uniforms washed and folded, kids dropped and picked up from school, and then after school activities return and therefore means that I need to take everyone to the required place for the required amount of time.
School holidays do tend to wear me out, but I do love the fact that you can just stay home and do nothing. You don’t have to be anywhere and no one needs a lunch box to stay home.
This was the twins last day of pre-school. They were super excited to be going to Kindy. Now they are in grade four, how time flies.
Soon the girls will be done with their primary education and move on to high school.
Not only have I been a little down about the fact that they are growing up so quickly, I have been thinking about all the items that I need to organise for the kids before they get to their first day of term 1 this year.
Are your kids starting school this year? If they are I bet they are very excited.
What do you need for the first day of school?
Depending on what year you are in you have different things to bring to school. Your school gives you a breakdown of all items that you need to for your child.
If you have attended Kindy Orientation the year before, you would have received an info pack. In the info pack you get told all about the school, bell times, teachers, where rooms are, snow and bushfire policies (Yes our school has both snow & a bushfire policy), what the kids need for their first day and so much more.
COST SAVING TIPS:
TIP 1: Look at the uniform and see how you can cut costs. If the school wears a single colour polo shirt, this same top an be purchased cheaply at Target, BigW or Kmart. If the school has a crest on their shirts buy a few of these and get the rest in the plain colour. This way your child has the fancy one for school functions, photos and excursions.
TIP 2: The same is for other items, like shorts, skorts (a cross between a skirt and shorts) and so on. I purchased skorts for the twins for $8 at BigW and from the school, they are $30 each. Shopping around for school uniform items is a good idea. Oh, and if your kids are like mine and love wearing shorts, buy the boys shorts and you will save a bundle. Who cares if they are boys or girls shorts. It really doesn’t matter.
TIP 3: If your child is at the stage you need to purchase stationery and other supplies for school, it is a good idea to see what you already have at home. I’m sure that you might already have textas, pencils, sharpener, pencil case and more already. This will save you a bit of money at the shops.
For Kindy kids, the following is basically all you need:
Full uniform, school shoes, hat (wide-brimmed is ideal), sunblock, spare clothes if needed (In case of an accident. Pack undies, socks, pants, skirt or skort in a plastic bag).
Bag or backpack that is not too big for your child. Something that they can carry without any help.
Lunch box packed with a yummy lunch. Give the kids some snacks, finger food, a sandwich and a treat here and there. If your school has a canteen or possibly a tuck shop maybe put a $2 coin in their lunch box so they might get a treat once a week.
Water Bottle
Smock for creative tasks like painting.
Jumper & rain jacket in case the weather changes. If your weather is like mine it can change without notice. You don’t want your little one to be at school and freezing.
Make sure to label everything. Kids lose so many things and you want to be able to claim your item in the lost property box.
Library Bag ( I made one for the twins so that it is different from the other kids. This way it is easily recognised as theirs)
If you are concerned that you have not packed or supplied what is needed, it is always a good idea to check with your child’s teacher.
NOTE: Normally you have a two-week window to get everything organised for the start of the school year. This gives you ample time to source all items.
Download my FREE Guide to Make a Book Bag
There are many ways to add your names to items. You can write them on the items with pen or texta, or get actual labels.
Labels can be for clothes, bags, books and more.
One website that we have used and love is called, Stuck On You.We liked that the labels are unique to each child, and were so fast to arrive.
Just google labels for kids and you get so many choices that I’m sure you will find something that suits your needs.
The above list for Kindy kids was fine until my girls got to third grade. Once we reached this level in primary school we needed to provide more for the kids.
Each grade gets sent a list via the school newsletter and it is also available for purchase from the local newsagency.
If your school uses SkoolBag (SkoolBag is an app the school uses for all communication, some school use it) then you can download the equipment list from there.
What the twins need for grade four:
2 x 30 cm ruler, clearly labelled with centimetre and millimetre markings (no metal or floppy rulers, please)
Scissors
Highlighters – at least two different colours
2 glue sticks – 35g
8 lead pencils, HB.
Sharpener with container
2 rubbers for lead pencils
Coloured pencils
Gel pens and textas are optional
Pencil case large enough to hold the above items (1 pencil case only, please!)
Library bag
4 plastic document wallets A4
2 x 0.4 or 0.5 fine point black pens for map work, labelling and artwork
Large sheet of cardboard for Art folder
3 x Lined A4 exercise books for homework/classwork
2 x Boxes of tissues (this helps the classroom if each kid contributes)
1 x packet whiteboard markers
USB 4-6GB
Drink bottle with water only for drinking during class
Please remember a hat each day
For example, grade five will be getting extras like pens as they will have their pen licence (yes this is a thing!), extra workbooks, cardboard for folders and also a calculator for maths.
This should give you a good idea of what to pack for your child who is starting school this year.
One of the things I do dread is packing the kids lunches, the dread is fuelled by the fact that the twins are so fussy that it is hard to know what to pack.
I want to give the twins something that I know that they will eat, but also try to expose them to new and yummy foods.
Did you know that you can put in tasty, yummy and healthy snacks that will make your job as the chief lunch packer easier.
A simple lunch box.
There is a place called School Snack Box and they can send you a box of snacks that you don’t need to think about.
All you need to do is to pick how many snacks you wish to add to your child’s lunch box and then order the box that is right for you. You can choose from a box with 22 snacks for $40/month, with $15 shipping fee. Or you can get 44 snacks for $80/month and also with an extra $15 shipping fee.
This is a great option if you wish to have different snacks delivered each month. Add something different to the lunch box each day.
Starting big school is a major milestone. I hope your child has a great time.
It’s a massive step when kids start Kindy. You will be emotional even if you have told yourself it won’t happen.
Let it happen and it is all normal. Trust me, I was happy and still crying.
If you are able to help out at the school, do it. It’s so amazing to see your child thrive and be more confident in their new school.
I volunteered to help with reading when the twins were younger and will do so for Alexander as well when he starts school.
Good luck with term one. I hope your kids have a great time and you do as well.
Sign up for my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up for my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Happy Birthday to us, Happy birthday to the blog, Happy Birthday.... we are turning 10 this year!
This year the blog is turning ten.
What a major milestone it is to be blogging for 10 years!
Happy Birthday to us, Happy birthday to the blog, Happy Birthday…. we are turning 10 this year!
It really doesn’t feel like it has been ten years. Maybe it is all the things that kept me busy in the nearly ten years since having my first children (I did think that I would always say first child but in my case its first children).
The blog was started just after the twins were born and the girls are soon to be ten in September. The twins are super excited to be double digits soon.
To celebrate this amazing milestone I am giving away prizes to a valued and cherished reader each month.
I value all of you that have helped create such an awesome community and for following the blog for all these years.
Make sure to follow the blog, subscribe to the newsletter on the link below (I email my readers about giveaways, promotions and interesting news), and of course, follow us on our social media sites to not miss out on these amazing competitions and much more!
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Soon there will be the first giveaway to enter and trust me the giveaways will be amazing. You will not want to miss the opportunity to win.
A HUGE thanks to all that have followed the blog and for helping make it such a great place to be.
2018 is going to be awesome and there are so many wonderful things in store.
Check out my Q & A article, it was so that the lovely Kiddipedia readers can get to know me.
I know many of you might already know some of these things that I mentioned in this post, but some might not. Take a read and learn more about me and the blog.
Each month I will be posting a new article on the Kiddipedia website. I hope you pop over to read my new articles.
While you are there, please take the time to look at all the wonderful resources that this great parenting resource offers.
Kiddipedia is very thrilled to announce our partnership with Mummy to Twins Plus One.
Founded by Suzanne, this blog was created as a project for her to work on and a way to document what is happening with her and the children.https://t.co/ApZ3pzgqdO#MummyToTwinsPlusOnepic.twitter.com/b6wGgVPWOZ
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
I find that I have to go to the toilet when the baby was previously getting up for a bottle. I am not sure why I still do this? Maybe it is due to too much water? Or is it my body being in a rhythm and due to doing this for a while now it is hard to break?
When I do get up at 2 or 3 am in the morning I try to be super quiet. I tiptoe. I also make sure that I try not to walk on the floorboards that might make a noise. You should see me it is a funny sight. I would go to any length to keep the baby sleeping for longer.
Super cute Alexander sleeping. I love watching him sleep.
Normally I just hear snoring and people sleeping. Sometimes I hear the baby talk or cry a little, however, this is shortlived and he goes back to sleep.
However, on the odd occasion, the baby wakes. This is rather annoying after all my extra care to be so quiet and not make a sound.
Why would he wake up? Is he on a timer too? Did he hear me? Does he sense when my head leaves the pillow and I walk away?
Do other mums face the same issue? Or is this just happening to me?
While sitting with Alexander at 3.30am this morning I was thinking about all these things and much more. Yes, I was solving all the problems and maybe I should have written my grand ideas down. I do remember a few of them.
During my time cuddling my baby boy I wondered the following:
How many other mums are sitting at this precise moment doing the same thing? What are they thinking?
Are they trying not to fall asleep, while wishing they were back in bed?
Do other mums end up coming up with amazing solutions while sitting with the baby? I think next time I’m up late I need to make sure a notepad and pen are next to me.
Not only do I have to go to the bathroom at odd times, I find that I wake up at these times too. I think I have been re-programmed by Alexander to be on alert in case needed.
My cells must be aware of this need to be constantly ready, and to get up at a moments notice and have decided to not rest either. They are constantly on the go.
This, in turn, has led to constant exhaustion and not much else getting done. Housework is my annoyance at the moment, and a housekeeper or cleaner each week would be a godsend.
However, this is not to be and therefore I need to soldier on and to get it all done in my sleep-deprived state.
Do you ponder this types of questions? What have you concluded?
Let us know if you do the same as I have been doing. Do you ponder some great thoughts and come up with wonderful solutions while being up late or early with the baby?
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
42,000 years into the past to be precise. How are we time traveling? Well, we don’t have a Delorean or a Tardis. Personally, this is a tragedy but not the end of the world.
Due to not having any of these fancy time travel machines, we will be roughing it by walking to our destination after parking the car.
How are we time traveling? Well, we don’t have a Delorean or a Tardis. Personally, this is a tragedy but not the end of the world. Due to not having any of these fancy time travel machines, we will be roughing it by walking to our destination after parking the car.
Due to not having any of these fancy time travel machines, we will be roughing it by walking to our destination after parking the car.
Woolly Mammoths Mural. Illustration by Velizar Simeonovski, The Field Museum.
So where are we off to that requires us to flash back thousands of years?
We are having a sneak peek at the Australian Museum’s latest exhibition. Yes, we are visiting a museum and in a way that means we are being whisked away in time. The kids, hubby and I are going to learn about the Mammoths – Giants of the Ice Age
The Mammoths – Giants of the Ice Age is an exhibition that is in partnership with Destination NSW, the Australian Museum (AAM’s) major exhibition will feature Lyuba , (pronounced Lay – oo – baa ) – a 40,000 – year – old baby woolly mammoth, discovered in 2007 by a Siberian herder and his two sons. This will be the first time the near fully intact baby mammoth has been on display in the southern hemisphere.
Lyuba , (pronounced Lay – oo – baa ) – a 40,000 – year – old baby woolly mammoth.
Fancy having history come to life and getting closer to what these animals would have been like.
Australia didn’t have mammoths, so this might be your only chance to see them.
What will you see at the exhibition?
Developed by the internationally renowned Field Museum in Chicago, the exhibition includes a rich collection of fossils, casts and cave drawings showing evidence of how early humans hunted and honoured these massive creatures. Mammoths lived alongside humans for thousands of years and were a source of food for early people, as well as artistic inspiration. Artwork dating from between 35,000 and 10,000 years ago will also be on display in the form of miniature carvings made of bone, stone and mammoth ivory from mammoth tusks. How amazing is it that this artwork has survived.
Did you know? Mammoths are an extinct group of elephants of the genus Mammuthus, whose ancestors migrated out of Africa about 3.5 million years ago.
This image of a human next to mammoths gives you an idea of how big they were. I must say I wouldn’t want to be next to one, it would be rather scary.
I cannot wait to show the kids these amazing and enormous animals. I’m also keen to learn more at the exhibition about what life must have been like alongside this massive creatures. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be close to a mammoth and to learn more about the time, the animals and much more. Make sure that you don’t miss this amazing exhibit from the Australian Museum.
What are the dates of The Mammoths Giant of the Ice Age Exhibit
The Mammoths Giants of the Ice Age is open from 19th November 2017 to 13th May 2018
Book your ticket today to see the Mammoths – Giants of the Ice Age at the Australian Museum.
Get tickets to see this amazing event
You can purchase tickets online at the Australian Museum website. Online prices: Adult $10 AM Member, $20 non-Member, Concession $8 AM Member, $16 non-Member, Child 5+ $6 AM Member, $12 non-Member. Kids under 5 go free. Having this on the list of things to do for the soon to be summer school holidays is a good idea. I always like to have some good places to take the kids that they don’t normally go to often. A museum is a good excuse to stay in the city, relax at a swish hotel and have dinner out. Follow the blog on Instagram to see all the updates at the exhibition and while we are in the city.
A big thank you to The Australian Museum for our invite to look at the exhibit before it officially opens. We are all very excited and cannot wait.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Woofy Whoops is a dog who desperately needs to go to the toilet.
Each player takes turns spinning Woofy around and whoever he lands on has to pat him according to how many times he barks. You might need to pat him once, twice or maybe more.
You need to be careful as the last pat might mean you are the one that gets wee’d on. Thank goodness it is really only water (just pretend)
How to play Woofy Whoops.
I was not sure about the idea of a game that has a dog wee on you but thought we would give it a go. The twins love the game and so did their mates that came over during the school holidays.
All the kids were giggling and wondering when or if they would be the one to get wee’d on…. yes it was funny to watch.
Isn’t it always the way… kids like something that is naughty.
Woofy Whopps looks innocent, but he might wee on you so be careful!
You need to download the Woofy Whoops App
The game works with an iPhone or Android phones. Plug in for the kids to hear the sound.
With the app, you are able to record and save video of when Woofy Whoops does actually pee on a player. The faces are priceless when this happens.
When the game replays a video of a player it is called a “wee play.”
Includes fire hydrant water tank, spinning Woofy and free Woofy Whoops app
App determines at random who will get sprayed and features funny animation
App records the moment you get ‘peed’ on in hilarious slow motion
iPhone and Android compatible – requires operating software iOS 9 or later for Apple devices and 4.3 or above for devices for Android.
Multiplayer
3 x AA batteries required
Watch Lillian and Julia have fun playing Woofy Whoops
Personally I was not sure about the game. I was worried that the kids might see that dogs weeing on them is a good thing. They both know that this is just pretending and of course would not want this to happen in real life.
I was willing to test this game out and have realised that the kids actually enjoy it and love playing it with friends.
Having warmer weather is a help with this game as well since you get wet in the process.
Woofy Whoops can be played indoors and outside as well. Due to space constraints at my house and making sure there was no water everywhere we set it up in the garden. (Music is over the video of the girls due to so many cicadas chirping and making it hard to hear anything)
If you wish to get the kids something different for Christmas this game is something to think about.
Thanks to Childsmart, Australia’s leading distributors of quality kid’s toys, nursery and lifestyle products for sending me Woofy Whoops by Worlds Apart to test out. The kids had a blast and cannot wait to test out other toys.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
And if it does it is older people that have this happen.
Wrong.
“46% of women affected by incontinence are under 50”
In fact incontinenceand bladder leakage effects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men. These numbers show that there are a lot of people in Australia dealing with this issue.
TENA has created infographics to help simplify your understanding of incontinence and prepare yourself for it.
What is incontinence?
Although there are thousands or possibly millions of people affected, no one seems to discuss this issue.
The idea of bladder leakage seems a taboo subject.
I like others have not liked to discuss it, however it happens. It is real, it is an outcome of life, and an outcome of being a mother.
Pregnancy can weaken your pelvic floor muscles. Don’t worry exercise can make it all better.
Incontinence is not all the same, there are different reasons for why it happens.
Below are the main reasons that people would have any form of incontinence.
Stress Incontinence – When you sneeze, cough, jump or laugh and end up having a leak. This is due to having a weakened pelvic floor muscle. Due to the weak pelvic floor muscle the urine cannot be contained and creates a downward pressure. This is mainly an issue for women and the reasons for the weak pelvic floor is pregnancy, childbirth, being overweight could be an issue, if you smoke that could not help and if you have constipation or had issues trying to go to the toilet.
Overflow Incontinence – This is when you have an overwhelming need to urinate and it cannot wait. Sometimes getting the toilet in time is not possible, and must be very upsetting. This could also be a sign of infection and it is best to seek advice from your doctor about this issue. Other causes could be fizzy drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.
Overflow Incontinence – Although this can be experienced by anyone it is mainly men that have this issue. Check with your doctor and see if there are any issues with prostrate or maybe a blockage. Once all fixed everything should return to normal.
Functional Incontinence – Physical injury or other health issues might affect a person’s ability to get to the bathroom on time. It might also be neurological, including Alzheimer’s, stroke and head injury, where the messages between brain and bladder aren’t getting through.
Bowel or Faecal Incontinence – Causes of Bowel or faecal incontinence can be a weak pelvic floor due to constipation, poor bowel habits, diarrhoea or maybe bowel surgery. Diseases such as Coeliac and Chrohn’s can impact control over your bowel.
Incontinence is an outcome that I don’t like.
Not only do you carry a baby for nine months or close to it if you have babies early.
Your body changes, you are also dealing with extra weight due to putting it on for the pregnancy and then have limited time to exercise to lose the weight.
Although it is an annoying outcome, it is something that can be fixed or made much better.
Yes you read that right, there are treatments that can help you!
You need to understand what is causing the issue first. Once you know why you are having bladder leakage then you can start to treat the issue.
Pelvic Floor Exercises – This addresses the weakened pelvic floor mostly due to childbirth. One option is to consult a continence physiotherapist who can develop an individually tailored program as well as assist in monitoring progress.
Bladder Retraining– This is done under the supervision of your GP, Gynaecologist, Urologist or Continence Physiotherapist. You retrain your bladder to have longer intervals to the toilet.
Surgery – This is an option if all the other treatments have not worked. Only when your doctor has recommended it is a solution that will correct the issue.
Medication– Before medication is considered doctors try a change to lifestyle, such as reducing coffee, soft drinks and alcohol. A doctor will advise if this is needed and how it can help.
Have you been slack on thekegel exercises? I am, and it is really not hard to fit them in.
TIP to help you exercise
MAKE A TIME EACH DAY WHILE DOING A CHORE: One tip that helps me is to make one time a day or maybe two to do the kegel exercises.
It could be when you are hanging out the clothes, picking kids up from school or driving in the car.
Shhhh….Don’t tell anyone, I like to do them when I am driving back and forth from school. This way they get done in the morning and afternoon.
Having a chore to do with your kegel exercises means that every time you do this chore you will think to do your kegel exercises. A win all round.
Perfecting your kegels
Pelvic Floor Exercises for Women – Continence Foundation of Australia
Now armed with some great techniques, my pelvic floor muscles will be like steel.
Yep, not abs of steel, pelvic floor of steel! Maybe this is a bad visual for you my dear readers.
I have been wanting to get toned, fit and drop some weight, maybe soon I will be a woman of steel! It could happen….given enough time? A personal trainer would help….oh how I wish.
It is best to have more water to reduce the concentration of urine, if you don’t have enough water you can irritate your bladder and aggravate urge incontinence.
Making sure that you look after yourself now, is going to pay off when you get older. Strong muscles will mean that when you are older you can control any leaks and not have accidents.
This helps with quality of life and also confidence. If you are not worried about the possibility of incontinence you can do more and be more active.
While you are exercising and working towards stronger pelvic floor muscles it is advisable to wear protection to allow you go confidently go about your everyday tasks without worry.
TENA is offering customers free samplesto help find the right product for their needs. Fill out the form and get some free samples sent to you, all in discreet packaging. (I’ve signed up for my free samples. Have you??)
Get Free TENA Samples to find out what works best for you.
While you are busy getting pelvic muscles of steel make sure to protect yourself with TENA. It will allow you to have confidence to exercise and enjoying life.
Life is short and it is best to get on with it and participate. If bladder leakage or incontinence is holding you back, get it checked at the doctors, do the exercises and be key to improving your quality of life.
MAKE YOU A PRIORITY!
Disclaimer: This post is in collaboration with TENA. I was approached to help the awareness of the different causes and treatments for incontinence. It is a fixable issue and one that you should not live with if it is bothering you. Make an appointment with your doctor and get it fixed so that you can start enjoying all the fun things you wish to do again.
I hope this helps you know more about this issue.
Note:I am going to be doing more follow up articles on this issue, so stay tuned.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
I was at a function on Wednesday. I went to hear some great women speak at the Mums Society talks this past Wednesday.
There were many tables to sit at and I chose one that had two other mums to twins.
Yes, I must have known.
Maybe there was something in the air or the universe told me to sit at that exact table.
One mum had twelve-year-old twins and a two-year-old.
The other mum had a five-year-old and soon to be two-year-old twins.
Introductions were made and we all got to know each other.
The mum of the nearly two-year-old twins, I think her name was Sam asked me the following….”How do I manage to fit everything in”.
“How do I find time to blog with three kids and everything else that needs to be managed???”
Getting stuff done while I am kid free. Maximising my time for me!
Well, if this lady ever saw my house she would be in shock. It is a mess. Sometimes it is tidier than before but that tidy never lasts long.
I do get sick of it and have days that I go mad cleaning and sorting things out. On these days I don’t get a break and never get around to doing anything for me. I use the time for myself to try and sort the house out.
Once complete and the house looks at least like a whirlwind has not been inside recently and that finally, people care about the place that they live in. My happiness at the calm, the space that has been created by removing junk and finding places for things does not last. It never does!
In a blink of an eye or even quicker the mess finds a way back to my tidy rooms. The floor that you could walk on without checking what you stepped on are soon filled with toys, mess, clothes and anything really that does not get picked up (even after a million times that mummy asks and tells kids to pick these items up!).
I know prioritise my time without kids to do something for me. Yes, the house comes second. I do wish while I was off being me and not a housekeeper or mummy that I had a cleaner or helper making sure the house was spotless. Where for art though cleaning fairy? I need some help.
So due to not having a house cleaning fairy, I do what I can. I pick the major rooms to tidy, kitchen, bathroom, and living room. They might not be 100% but they are okay for now. I do give them a big clean every now and then but I do what I can when I can.
You cannot do everything you wish to do.
However, if you manage to do something that you are wanting to do, you will be a happier person.
A less stressed mummy, a calmer version of you. Not getting to do anything that makes you happy creates frustration and anger.
You end up resenting things, people and you start yelling and being an upset individual.
Timeout for you is essential.
So answering the question of how I fit it all in. I do the following:
While kids are at school and the baby is at childcare I blog. Before I sit down to my computer I put a load in the dishwasher and the washing machine. I clean a bit of the kitchen and then while the clothes are getting washed as are the dishes I write a blog post.
I try and ignore the mess and get work done. It does annoy me and I wish it was all neat and tidy but if I did that I would have no time to do work while alone.
I get back to emails in the evening or on my time alone without kids.
Once I do a few things I then put the clothes on the line and do a quick tidy around the living room. I also if I have time tidy around the kid’s room (although now I have decided it is the twins responsibility… they need to tidy their own room).
When the twins were babies I completed my postgraduate study in Project Management. This was all done via online delivery and I did one subject at a time to maximise success and to not overwhelm myself. I did well but it was a lot of late nights reading and doing assignments.
I am now trying not to watch too much television. Once the kids are in bed, hubby and I watch one show and then I am doing a few hours on my blog.
If I had the money I would have a housekeeper or nanny. This would free up my time to do more and be a massive help. Maybe when I get rich or my book is a best seller (yes world domination awaits me!)
In the holidays I put the twins into vacation care or they visit relatives for a mini holiday. This means that I have more time to concentrate on the blog, things for me, spending time with Alexander and organising the house without interruption.
If you have the cash getting a cleaner would be ideal. Help to sort out things that you never get around to, like floors, walls, windows and countertops are a huge help. Someone to tidy up and to sort so that you can work on other things or not feel like things are getting on top of you.
I do know what it is like having too many ideas and not enough time. It is annoying or the idea that if you could only not be interrupted all the time you could be amazing. I know …… it is hard.
Choose one thing that you wish to do and give it a go. You can do some things but not everything!
Start by putting in systems to ensure that you can get a few things done for you.
Tell your partner that you cannot be interrupted between these times. If the baby cries it is their job to help out.
If you are starting something start small. If it is a blog, maybe aim to do 1 post that is wonderful each week. This way it will not freak you out that there is too much to do and causes you to panic.
To the mums that have younger twins a schedule helped me. I had them up at a certain time. Fed, and then I took them out to exhaust them. Yes park, pool, playgroup and more. If we played at home I engaged with them and did as much as I could to stimulate them to make them tired.
If they did not sleep I set up what I called quiet time in the living room. I made the floor a bed with pillows and blankets. Then I put on a movie and told them to lie down and rest. At first, they wanted me to stay with them, but I told them that mummy had to get a few things done and once done will come and be with them.
Enforcing quiet time allowed me to tidy up the kitchen or sort out the mess somewhere else or write a blog post.
In response to getting it all done, I am not doing everything I wish to do but I am trying to do a few things on my list.
I hope this helps you out if you are struggling to do something for you.
Note: I have written this in a cafe while having an ice cold orange juice. The twins are at school for their last day of term and the baby is at childcare. I’m squeezing in some work and me time while I am kid free!
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
It is hard to believe it has been nine years already.
Nine years sounds like a long time, well it actually is.
However, it only feels like yesterday that my twin girls were babies. Only yesterday when I had them and they were so tiny that they had to be in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).
Everyone said that having twins would be hard. It has had its challenges and also has not been as hard as I thought it was going to be.
I think the birth and hospital stay was the worst really for me. The twins got treated very nicely in the NICU but during birth and before it was not great for me.
About the birth of the twins
Firstly my water broke at 33 weeks and a few days. It was Father’s Day of 2008 when this happened, and it occurred at 4am at home. I did my constant pilgrimage to the toilet and then realsied that it had happened, game on by membranes rupturing naturally. We went off to the local hospital to then be told that I had to be ambulanced to Nepean due to being very early and of course pregnant with twins. Katoomba hospital does not have the facilities for intensive care of babies this little.
Now for one of the weirdest things that happened, the ambos were concerned that I might go into labour on the drive to Nepean. To get to this hospital there is only one road there and one road back home. So if there was a delay, accident or if I did indeed go into labour and have the babies it would have been a road side birth in the back of the ambulance.
The doctor thought it was best to check me out to confirm that a roadside delivery with twins was not immediate and this was done with the aid of a dolphin torch and a doctor who still had his beanie on. It was confirmed that labour and babies was ages away and it was safe to transport me to the other hospital and made the ambos happy knowing that there would be no emergency birthing issue roadside.
I was finally at the hospital and then had to be placed in a delivery suite until a room was made available. I stayed there for most of the day and night and then at some point Sunday evening went to my room in antenantal.
During my stay I had nurses thinking I had the babies, thinking that I was only having one baby, and after I had them trying to give me medicine that I did not need.
One medicine that I was given was meant to stop contractions and make labour not happen. This drug was a very tiny pill and the side effects made me dizzy and my skin all red hot and bothered. Yes I had the sweats… just perfect and what every woman wants while they wait to give birth.
I stopped taking this pill Wednesday night and at 2.30am Thursday morning it all started. I found I wanted to go to the toliet and more importantly felt the need to poo, but nothing happened. I wanted to push. My legs at this stage were like jelly and I was finding it very hard to walk. I was in a lot of pain and in tears.
Since I kept on having the urge to go to the toilet I decided to go and stay there. There was an emergency buzzer in there so I buzzed it for help. No help came for over 30 mins. Finally a nurse came and I told her in between tears and pain what has been happening and how painful it was. Mind you it was not in my belly and all in my lower back.
This nurse said that they had a few emergencies so were very busy and someone will be back soon. She also told me that it sounded like I was constipated and that she can help me if this is the case with equipment. Equipment? Really I don’t think so! I’m having the babies. Mind you by this stage I had been in hospital for five days waiting to have the twins and my water broke days ago, so they were ready to come.
Pregnant with the twins. It was only a few weeks later that they were born.
When someone finally came back they told me they could not give me painkillers, which sucked big time.
I asked if they could check to see how far along I was and they didn’t. Instead they hooked me up to a machine to see if I was having a contraction or not. They then asked me and I said I didn’t know and told them I had intense to horrific pelvic and lower back pain. It was like my pelvis would crack open and be in two different parts. It was horrible. They only seemed interested about any pains on my belly. I kept on telling them that I did not have them, just extreme bad pelvic and back pain.
After being on this machine for most of the day and night I finally got someone to look at me. It was estimated that I was about 3cms dilated and that I would need to be moved to the delivery suite downstairs. By this time it was after 8pm at night. I rang hubby so he could come to the hospital as he was home at the time.
I started at the delivery suite Thursday the 11th of September at about 8 pm, then I had the worst midwife.
She did not believe me when I told her that I still felt like I had to push and needed to go to the bathroom. She kept on asking about contractions on my belly and told her that it was all in back. She got annoyed that I was not presenting like a text book case and gave me Pethidine and left hubby and I.
During me being out of it on Pethidine I still went back and forth to the bathroom and was very upset. Hubby was in and out of sleep on a mattress on the floor. Typical that hubby manged to get some sleep.
Shift changed for the nurses and Friday morning we had a lovely midwife and trainee midwife as well. I told them what had been happening and she was upset that no one had checked me. I told her that the other lady said that if she checks to many times I might get an infection. Well she never checked me during the whole shift at all.
The midwife who I think was called Janet finally looked at me and said I was about 5 cms and like it or not I was having the babies. I asked if my chance to have drugs to help was over? I was worried I might have missed the window. She said no and got the person who did the Epidural. However I did not know at the time they did it that it would not work. It must have been put in the wrong position and I felt everything and it was horrible! It was like someone was killing me and I could not move.
Julia and Lilian on last day of school for term 1 at Pre-School. The girls were 3 years old here.
The epidural ended up parlising my legs and allowed me to feel the pain. Really not the point of it. However I never realised why the doctors were looking so concerned until after the birth of my third baby. During the birth of Alexander I had an epidural where I felt no pain for a long while, I even managed to fall asleep and I could move my legs.
Thinking back to the birth of the twins I think they thought they paralized me. I am so grateful this did not happen, but it was annoying as they kept on asking me to move my legs and I kept on telling them I couldn’t.
On the Friday night I had two doctors come and do rounds. I had never seen these doctors before. They then told me that if I could just hold off until I was 36-38 weeks that would be great.
I asked them who they were. They told me that they were doctors. I then said that I don’t think you are. My water broke nearly a week ago, I am in a delivery suite and very clearly in labour with twins. I also told them that I was over 5cm dilated so stopping this birth is not an option, so telling me to just wait till I am further along was bullshit.
During the birth I had a full room of what looked like 30-50 people. There were two doctors for the babies, two humdicribs, nurses, support staff and a whole lot of trainee doctors just observing. It was packed. Hubby ended up in the corner of the room behind a machine (I don’t know if this was the machine that goes bing) but it was a packed room. The doctor had to yell for the husband and finally people moved out of his way so he could be next to me.
Finally on Saturday the 13th of September after over 30 hours of labour and nonsense from the doctors and staff the girls were born.
Julia (Twin A) – 2:55am, weighed in at 2.1kgs, just over 4 pounds.
Lillian (Twin B) – 3:07am, weight in at 1938 grams, just over 4 pounds.
When the girls were babies I got them into a routine early on and that helped immensely. I woke the sleeping baby up so that they both could feed at the same time. I know waking a sleeping baby is not a good thing but you don’t want to be feeding babies all day and night either. Having them feeding and sleeping at the same time meant that I could go out and do things, like playgroup, shopping and have some downtime for me.
When the girls were older
I did not think the two’s were troubling but found when the girls turn three to be even harder. They had an opinion about the clothes they would wear and everything really. Things took longer to do due to the girls deciding that they preferred the pink one or the purple one and god help us if we could not get those colours when they were younger.
The girls about 3 years of age at Stanwell Tops with daddy.
The girls were always on the smaller scale for their weight and maybe height. More so their weight. They were only 8kgs at one years of age and during the years of being two and three gained and constantly lost weight too. I think in a whole year they only gained a kilo. From memory at about 3 years they were about 10kgs or just a little bit over. So they were tiny.
The girls were and still are very active. Running, jumping, swimming and exploring the outdoors.
I have found that the girls are very stubborn and headstrong. These are great traits to have but does annoy me as a parent when they don’t do as they are told. They have always thought they know best and still do.
Twin Connection
When the girls were babies about 4-5 months old. One kid was screaming and crying but never woke up. I then checked her sister and she was wet and cold. Her sister was telling me something was wrong and I had to come and change her nappy and clothes and then bedding.
The girls seem to be able to sense each other. When Lillian was 18 months old she had to be hospitalised for a bad UTI(Urinary Tract Infection). When Julia and hubby came to visit Lillian could sense they were near and said to me Julia is here and so is daddy. They are coming to visit now mummy. I knew they were coming but had no idea of the time. Then seconds after she said they were here I heard them come down the corridor of the hospital. She just knew.
The girls seem to have to hurt themselves in the same spot. One could hurt their knee falling down stairs and then the other does it somewhere else but manages to do the same injury to the same knee. This has happened to the girls with hurting other body parts but it could be minutes or hours apart but it will happen.
They need to be together. Both kids want to still sleep in the same bed.
Even though they want to be different they still like dressing the same.
The girls are very competitive and get upset when one does something better or before the other. I know this happens with siblings but it is more intense with the girls.
They need to do everything at the same time and like the other. If they were sisters who were 2 years apart then this might be upsetting but maybe not with such hysterical meltdowns and angst.
The girls and I experiencing snow in October of 2012.
Being Nine
I have found the last few years to be rather hectic. It is due to the frenetic activity, headstrong attitudes and surging independence.
The twins really want to do more on their own and I am trying to accommodate these requests. The girls like to take the bus home some afternoons, and walk to school when I park further away. When they do walk to school they really love crossing the road at the zebra crossing outside the school on their own as they feel like big girls when they do.
Lately there have been many meltdowns. I have found that they are trivial and just reactions to things that really don’t matter in the long run. However, they are super important to the twins. If they cannot listen to music of their choice, watch videos on YouTube or on the iPad or even on the television they are very grumpy and rude individuals. In fact when things don’t go their way and they cannot listen to what mummy or daddy is saying they are just plain horrible really.
I have been told it is the age. Many parents of kids that are 9 or 10 are saying the same thing.
Trying to get them to have more responsibility around the home and looking after their things is a challenge too.
I’m getting told by the girls when I ask them to pick up their rubbish or clothes, “It’s not mine!” so they leave it and promptly fall over it.
My response then is it’s not mine either and most of the things in this house that get taken care of and put away are not mine as well. Maybe I should just leave it all as it is not mine!
It is like they are grumpy teenagers all ready.
I have been told that this is the precursor to pre-teen years. Yep, hormones changing, bodies growing. Annoyed and more grumpy people to come.
Jeez I hope it gets better. However I think it won’t. Maybe they will slowly understand that having a clean room might be a good idea.
The girls being silly. This was in 2013, so they would have been about 5 years here.
Being a Twin Mum
I never thought that I would have twins and thought that I was having one baby so it was a huge surprise.
Having twins that are now 9 is a shock as I think that they are so grown up at times and at others still babies that are learning.
It is hard as I think that the kids are in between being little and being so grown up, I do struggle with what to purchase them now. I don’t want them to be babied but I would not want them to be fast tracked into being a teenager and an adult as well.
For their birthday I did a mix of toys and some more grown up items that will grow with them, oh and also a pair of shoes that are awesome (well I think so, I just hope the kids love them too).
Having twins as my first children has made me feel that I can do anything, but now I just need the time to do them.
Doing two kids at once was really hard and difficult with no sleep when they were babies but it was doable. I find that others cannot understand how you can cope, but you just deal with what you are faced with and are used to. For me this was two babies as my first children.
Sometimes it is hard when you find that you make appointments or do things and they only make one appointment or they think it is one gift for one child. I find that I am constantly explaining why my kids have the same birthday and for some people it doesn’t occur to them first off that they are twins.
Twins first has made me stronger, and able to take on more in life. I’m the primary caregiver for the girls so therefore I take them everywhere, school, activities, when little daycare, preschool, parks, outings, swimming, play-dates, parties and more. It is a huge responsibility and one that I managed mostly on my own. Hubby is with me during the evenings and weekends and helps then, but if something has to happen during the week or if he is working it is all up to me.
I’m sure that this is not unlike other families with kids and something that you just deal with and manage.
However I do drool over having a nanny and some help. Maybe a housekeeper???
Now I am not only a twin mum I am a mum to a little boy, three kids keep me very busy and help would not go astray.
I do love being a mum to my twin girls and watching all their development milestones. It was great to see them walk, talk, and much more. Hubby and I once took the kids to their 6 month check up, but happened at 9 months due to the doctor being on holiday. During this check up the twins were having a conversation in their own language and laughing and having a great time. The doctor was in awe as he had never witnessed this before. We told them that the girls did this regularly and sometimes one ended up crying and yelling at the the other one and then sometimes they laughed at supposedly and inside joke. Once the kids got the real words for things they substituted and lost their made up language.
The girls at about 8-9 months of age.
Are you a twin mum?
What have you noticed about yourself that has made you stronger since being a mum to twins?
How have your twins changed since babies?
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
It is always nice to have gifts that are unique. A gift that has meaning, and of course is special to you and others.
Creating a gift that is a work of art is even better.
How about decorating a handkerchief for dad, mum, or anyone!
This gift idea is not only just for dads but can be for mum, grandparents, friends or even as a teacher gift.
Yes, this idea is easily adapted to whoever you wish to give it to. It just depends on your imagination.
This simple DIY gift is super easy to create and won’t cost the earth.
Equipment Need:
Handkerchiefs – You can purchase some or even make some if you are crafty at sewing. I purchased plain white ones. You can get different colours with patterns if you wish and incorporate this into your design.
Cardboard or paper to put on desk to make sure that the pens don’t bleed onto the desk.
Before you get started with your design it is always advisable to think about what you would like to achieve.
Check out what I created below:
A Breakdown of my decorated handkerchief:
For my first attempt at decorating the handkerchief, I just stuck to patterns in one colour.
I alternated rows to give it a better visual effect.
As the handkerchief had a pattern on the border I decided to not decorate there and leave the pattern the way it was originally.
Once the patterns in the red colour were finished, I then added some text on one side of the handkerchief and did it on the other end, and it is upside down from each other. This was done on purpose to make sure the text can be read no matter which way you have the handkerchief.
I was going to iron the handkerchief afterwards to heat set but have read that this is not needed for the Sharpie pens.
One post that I read recommended leaving the decoration for an hour to set.
Lillian working on her masterpiece for daddy.
The twins have both decorated their own handkerchiefs for daddy and I think they look amazing.
If you need a quick gift I would give this a go. I’m sure he will not have anything like it and of course love the fact that it is such a personal gift.
Julia creating her own colourful handkerchief for daddy.
If you do create a handkerchief decorated with sharpies for Father’s Day it would be amazing if you could share your pictures on our Facebook Page. I am sure that we can gain inspiration from your creations.
My first attempt at using Stained Sharpie Pens to decorate a handkerchief for hubby.
Thanks for following another great craft idea from Mummy to Twins Plus One. Stay tuned for more on the blog soon.
Julia’s finished artwork on a handkerchief for Father’s Day.Lillian’s brightly coloured Sharpie coloured handkerchief for daddy.
I hope you enjoyed this post.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
I have spoken to many women about their pregnancy journey, and then their birth stories. Most of the things that they dreamt or thought about never actually happened.
While at Problogger last year (Alexander was eight months when I attended Problogger in 2016. I was having a funny conversation with other bloggers and the topic of my fears and worries while pregnant with baby three was discussed.)
New born baby – This cutie is looking very relaxed and has no idea about all the drama that went on before they were born.
When I was pregnant with the twins I had horrible thoughts. I watched a film when I was about five months pregnant and I ended up having terrible dreams. Now, this film was a horror film and just horrible really. One scene had a person put on a tea trolley or hospital trolley (never sure what to call them). In the film, this person met a terrible end and I found it hard to watch.
My dream was being on this trolley as a pregnant woman with twins. They were then trying to tell me that the babies were coming and if they didn’t come they would take matters into their own hands. I was shackled to the trolley and it was uncomfortable, scary, and freaky. They were going to cut me open to save the babies. I of course was screaming, NO! They are not ready. It is too early and stuff like this.
The room I was in was like the bottom of a hospital that was all tiled and not kept very clean at all, it also reminded me of some shows that use disused railway stations as it looked rather like those.
I woke very upset and was thankful it was a dream. Maybe horror films when pregnant is not a good idea!
Flash forward to being pregnant with Alexander and I had all sorts of concerns. They were the following:
Due to having one baby, this child will be HUGE and be horrible to have.
Since I thought that this child might be enormous I would need a C-Section.
The baby would not be head down and cause issues.
I knew that the baby was due on the 7th of January and had no idea that he would come exactly on his due date. I did have thoughts that I might have a New Year’s Day baby and be on the front page of the local paper.
“Local woman gives birth to the biggest baby on New Years’ Day 2016”.
As you can see I still was panicked about having a HUGE BABY!
Scans did show that my third child was indeed on the small side. This however did not relieve my very active imagination and concern.
I was fully aware that this was only one baby this time. This baby could spread themselves to every corner of my insides and be a record weight. I know… I was so fixated on the baby being too big.
I did have my reasons to be freaked out about the birth. The first birth (with the twins) was not fabulous and mind you birth is not pleasant on any level.
The midwifes at the local hospital kept on insisting due to age that certain things would happen and that it might be classified as a high-risk pregnancy. Oh, how silly I thought.
I have already had a high-risk pregnancy with twins and all was well. I do understand things can change but why freak out the mum to be with what ifs. I ended up having a very healthy pregnancy and all was well with our third little person.
If help or intervention was needed to save the baby or myself I would have not stood in their way, however if it is not needed and all is well, then I say let nature decide when the baby comes and don’t intervene.
Maybe the hospital helped with my visions of horrible things happening while pregnant? I think they contributed in a small way. Wanting me to be induced for no actual reason, saying that I will develop gestational diabetes due to age I’m sure was not helpful. For the record, I had my third child naturally on his estimated due date and was lucky not to get gestational diabetes.
All my concerns were unfounded.
My baby was tiny compared to what my brain thought it would be.
This is what happened. I had a normal to smaller sized baby that was very healthy. Lucky nothing went wrong and all my fears were unfounded.
All the scans kept on saying how small it was going to be, however, I could not tell myself that this would be the case. I was freaking myself out.
It also could have been the fact that my second pregnancy with Alexander lasted longer than my first. The twins were born at 34 weeks and 2 days. Alexander came exactly at the 40-week mark. This meant more time to grow. More time for anything else to happen… I did not know but I knew that anything past 34 weeks was overdue for me.
Did you do this?
Are you currently pregnant and freaking yourself out?
What is the weirdest thought or dream that you have had while pregnant?
I just want to say that all the things that you are thinking could happen will most likely not happen so just relax and enjoy the day. Enjoy the time being pregnant if you can, and if you are able take a nap. You might be too busy soon to rest so get in now. Although this might be hard if you are working or have other children.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Australian scientists at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute have discovered that if women have Vitamin B3 during pregnancy it can prevent miscarriages and birth defects.
“Every year 7.9 million babies are born with a birth defect worldwide and one in four pregnant women suffer a miscarriage in Australia.”
The study found that a “deficiency in a vital molecule, known as NAD, prevents a baby’s organs from developing correctly in the womb.”
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is one of the most important molecules in all our cells. It is essential for energy production, cell communication and DNA repair.
Vitamin B3 is required and essential to make NAD. This is found in meats and leafy green vegetables, oh and Vegemite.
It is essential to have a good supply of vitamin B3 in the first trimester as this is the critical time for organ development.
New Born Baby
The Victor Chang institute found that at least a third of pregnant women have low levels of vitamin B3 in the first trimester and that is with taking vitamins, also in the third trimester 60% of pregnant women needed more of vitamin B3 as their levels were low also. This would mean that pregnant women would need to boost their intake of this vitamin.
The study found that before the introduction of vitamin B3 into the mothers diet, embryos were lost due to miscarriage and babies were born with a range of severe birth defects. After adding the vitamin to the mothers diet miscarriages and birth defects were prevented and babies were born healthy.
This is a massive breakthrough that will help so many people. It is just like the discovery of of adding folic acid to prevent spina bifida and other neural tube defects in babies. Mothers worldwide are all told to take folic acid to help their pregnancy. Adding folate to the food supply and making sure women have a more of this vitamin during pregnancy has led to a 70% decrease in the number of babies born with neural tube defects. The same will now happen with the understanding of Vitamin B3, and in turn lead to less miscarriages and birth defects.
If you are pregnant or want to be soon make sure you get your vitamin B3 to ensure all will be well.
I know things sometimes are not planned when you end up pregnant, but sometimes they are. My pregnancies were all planned and I made sure that I took vitamins well before I conceived and also had a good diet of fresh vegetables, meats, fruit and also exercised.
And sometimes baby number 2 or 3 is a surprise, or you were trying but thought it might take a while and it didn’t so time-frames might not work for all.
If you know you are planning for a baby, my tip is to make sure you focus on your inner health, vitamins and stay well. Having a baby is a huge job for you and your body. Carrying twins or more also puts another strain on vitamin stores. When pregnant with the twins I had to take more vitamins due to extra of an additional baby and their need for more vitamins.
One thing to do is if you are worried about your levels you can always go to a doctor and get them checked. Then you will know what you need to take, plus you can always get the vitamins from food too.
Isn’t it interesting that vitamins play such an essential role in our lives.
I hope this has helped you know more about this new discovery and if you are pregnant or want to be make sure to have a Vegemite sandwich or toast more often. (I love Vegemite and can live off it)
7.9 million babies are born with a serious birth defect worldwide every year
3.3 million children under five die from serious birth defects annually
Congenital heart disease is the most common form of birth defect, affecting 1 in 100 babies
42 babies are born with a heart defect in Australia every week
30 babies will undergo heart surgery in Australia every week
Heart defects account for 30% of deaths in children under five
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Ladies do you find that you come last for everything? I do… and this has to stop. We women need to put our health first!
I like other women find that I look after everyone before I look after myself.
This has not been intentional but due to kids and racing everywhere mummy seems to come last on the list for everything. Sad but true.
The last few months I have felt extremely exhausted. I’ve been so tired that I have fallen asleep in my chair watching a show, fallen asleep with the baby and just felt low.
I thought maybe it was vitamins. Maybe it was exercise or maybe there was something really wrong.
Part of me did think that if I could just have a true break and some good sleep it might all be fine. A break has not happened yet and still waiting on having uninterrupted sleep…. I can only dream about this.
I took myself off to get some sunshine and a walk. I found it so tiring and found it all so hard. Gee I am not that old! I know I might not be that fit but feeling this zapped of energy is not good.
The other day I took myself off to the doctors to get to the bottom of why I am so tired and not feeling good. Blood tests were done and I left with two sore arms as the nurse found it difficult to get a vein… normally this is not an issue. I don’t think I drank much that morning so that might explain the vein issue.
Yesterday the blood had the answers I was after. All good expect a few things. Low on vitamin d mainly and this would explain why I was so tired. I have purchased some vitamin d tablets and will make sure to get more sunshine. Although getting sunshine at the moment is a bit hard due to freezing temperatures and gale force winds, oh and a sick baby does not help.
I can make some changes and get my blood tested in another three months to see how it is all going.
This current issue with my health got me thinking.
As a mum to three young kids and the primary carer I need to look after me. If something happened to me things would be a disaster. I know you cannot future proof everything but you can try and look after your health and be well for you and the family.
Sign Up to Women’s Health Week.
The two barriers that women face are:
Time
Health not being a priority
If you look after you, you can look after the ones you love as well. It all starts with you being well and healthy.
I’ve signed up for Women’s Health Week and I urge you to do so as well.
Get fit in style with this gorgeous slim pink, 22k gold plated smart fitness watch built with revolutionary features including PurePulse® heart rate, connected GPS, on-screen workouts and more.
I’ve signed up to Women’s Health Week. Have you?
So what is Women’s Health Week About?
In 2013 Jean Hailes for Women’s Health ran the first national Women’s Health Week.
Thousands signed up from all over Australia to take part. The event consisted of online activities, resources, information, videos and more.
This event is now in its fifth year and it is “time to put yourself first and get talking about women’s health.”
You can also host an eventfor your friends, workplace or community. If you register before the 31st of July 2017 you get a free elephant stress ball in every gift bag.
NOTE: I was approached by the team at Women’s Health Week to help promote this great initiative for women. As a busy mum I know how easy it is to let things for you slip or get forgotten about altogether. As you know from the first part of this post I am dealing with feeling super tired and was proactive to go to the doctors to get to the bottom of why. I must say I knew that it might be a vitamin d issue before I went but wanted to triple check that there were no underlying issues that I need to be aware of.
Women, and mums out there need to put their health first. Be selfish and care for you so that you can help and care for others as well.
If you take care of your health not only will you feel good you will be more active as well.
You don’t need to just have a family to want to be healthy, feeling well helps you do more and feel better as well.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
I know that this kid is much younger than the girls and is not the twins. I just wanted a picture that conveys annoyance, being angry and upset. Sometimes the kids are like this regardless of their age.
Note: I wrote this yesterday in order to post today. Today the twins have been extremely good and I have hardly raised my voice. Not sure why they are being so good or what they want but I am just accepting the nice behaviour as lately it is a rare occurrence (Maybe they knew that I was writing this and are being good). One kid cleaned the living room, folded the clothes and put them away. She also wrote me a note saying that she loved me and had a glass of water waiting for me to drink. Very nice indeed.
Now to more of what has been the norm around here and to see if it is happening to you as well.
I know that this kid is much younger than the girls and is not the twins. I just wanted a picture that conveys annoyance, being angry and upset. Sometimes the kids are like this regardless of their age.
What is it with the twins lately?
Any time I open my mouth to ask them to do something or see what is going on and I get attitude!
Yep I kid you not.
I get told the following and it does not matter from which kid:
“Leave us alone!”
“You don’t need to know”
“It is none of your business”
Mind you this is all said to me with the grumpiest of voices and faces, plus it gets yelled at me or screamed like a banshee is yelling, not my children.
Could it be the age?
The twins are nearly nine and lately been wanting more independence. I like to walk them to school after I park the car but the girls have been asking me to park further away and let them walk the rest of the way. One kid said she wanted to “look like a big girl”.
The girls can do a lot of things on their own and some that I wish they would do is help put things away in the house, tidy their room and help when asked. However it seems like it is a fight to get them to do anything or listen at all.
One kid helped Daddy on our land putting up a silt fence. She worked so hard and even got blisters on her hands from putting up the fencing. She did a good days work. However if you ask her to pick something that she left on the floor up, this will be completely ignored.
Is Mummy Invisible?
I could be right next to one kid and ask them to pick something up or put something away and they will not hear me. Most likely ignoring me to see if I will forget about it. (Not likely!)
The same could be when either child wants to pick up things to take to the kitchen. I ask them to wait and tell them to take more than one item to the kitchen. (This makes sense doesn’t it. Why take one item to the kitchen and have to do several trips rather than one trip). While I am asking this child to wait they are already walking away from me. I have to repeat about four to five times to get them to come back and do the job correctly.)
Why is it that as soon as I organise some wonderful treat for the kids they turn into little nightmares. I pay and get tickets for fun events and the kids act horribly towards me during and after the event. Maybe I should not bother! Why does this happen? It is very annoying and stressful to have this constantly occur.
This happened last Monday when I took the twins, baby and myself off to see Despicable Me 3. They were good to a point and then turned into rude and horrible little people. Yelling at me to give them money for the arcade. Telling me that we were staying when I had already told them we were going home. I ended up going home and the kids ended up in their room until it was clean. Once the room was clean and they were behaving themselves they got lunch and could come out of their room.
Does this happen to you? You organise some fabulous outings for the kids for them to just be annoying and horrible about the whole thing. I have told my kids that if their silly behaviour continues they will be spending more and more time in their room. Geez lets hope it gets tidy if this happens.
It is frustrating when you are constantly repeating yourself, and feel like everything is a fight to get even a small thing done. After getting something achieved I feel exhausted as it has taken a lot of energy.
I feel like I need a drink and then a lie down. Maybe a G & T would be perfect after this type of carry on.
This is me, pretending the silly behaviour is not happening. I am also trying to get some quiet and alone time with no noise.
My Techniques to Help
I have explained to the kids that I am the only one that organises all the fun things for them due to the fact that I am the primary care giver. If the kids muck up they will not have fun and instead be watching the paint on the wall in their room.
One of my techniques to help the twins understand is to put it into context for them.
I asked if the girls would want to be friends with someone that once you did something nice for them ignored you? They said no.
I then asked if they would be happy if they got tickets to a fabulous event and then their friend complained every second they were at this event. Would they be happy about this? They said no.
After going to the movies and being told that there is only a certain flavour of chips available, and not accepting any alternatives. The actions of this child is screaming and crying. I then asked if they were taking their friend to the movies and this happened would they be happy about it. The kids said no.
When we go out and end up at a restaurant and the kids don’t like the food options. The reactions are hysterical meltdowns that are just crazy and horrible. I told the kids that we cannot control what the restaurant serves and they need to be more adventurous and try new foods. They agree but then don’t. I asked if this happened to them how would they feel? Both girls told me that they would be unhappy and upset.
It seems that they understand how their behaviour is making me feel and that it is not nice. The twins acknowledge that they don’t want to be treated like this.
I then said then, “Why is it okay to treat mummy like this?”
Then I get the all encompassing answer, “I don’t know!”
Well I know they are being naughty and not nice and mostly to me and to me alone.
I told them that I don’t like being treated like this either. I don’t like doing nice things for kids who are not nice back.
So unless they can be nice, no fun things will happen.
I have also tried their silly answer to everything back at them. If they ask when dinner is happening I say, “I don’t know”, if I get asked if they can watch TV, I say, “I don’t know”, if I get asked what are we doing today, I then say, “I don’t know”.
I think you get the message. I know sometimes you don’t know and that is fine but this cannot be the answer to everything… maybe it is the other answer to life, the universe and everything?
The Twins Seem to be Better When Separated
Hubby and I noticed the other day that each child is much better behaved when they are on their own. Once they are together the silliness takes over and more naughty vibrations travel between them and they become extremely naughty. Would it be the twin connection? Have you experienced this?
It is a pity that there are not a lot of opportunity to have more one on one time with each child. We are planning to do more of this on the weekends but it is harder during the week when I am the only care giver and therefore the kids are with me.
Let us know what is working for you?
Have you found it is the age that your children are at?
The twins are seeking more independence and I suppose due to the fact the girls are identical, they are making themselves different from their sister.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Fridays are not the same when you realise they are just like any other day.
Every morning this week I have found it harder and harder to get out of bed.
I have even thought that every day was Friday or at least close to it.
Yes I thought that Monday was Friday, Tuesday was and so on. Strange but it is true.
Maybe it is wishful thinking. Maybe it is wanting the school holidays to be here now!
Fridays are not the same when you realise they are just like any other day.
However the school holidays tire me out. All the activities to keep everyone entertained and the constant whinging does my head in.
So thinking everyday was Friday was rather silly. As a mum it being Friday really has no meaning. It used to mean that I could rest on Saturday, sleep in and relax. However with kids, Saturdays and Sundays are the same as any other day.
Don’t get me wrong. Holidays are great. Not having to be anywhere or do anything is great.
I have booked the twins into some days at vacation care. This is for two reasons. Firstly, the days that I chose for the girls vacation care has special excursions or activities. The kids will also have fun with friends, be able to run around and have fun without me telling them to be quiet due to the baby sleeping.
Secondly, while the kids are at vacation care I might be able to get a few things done. Yep I can focus on the blog, tidying up around the house and maybe have some quiet time.
I have booked the kids in some days while the baby is in daycare so that this will allow full on rest or peace for me. Not totally but it will be a nice break in the holidays.
During the two weeks of school holidays I have many fun things planned. Taking the kids to the movies, a visit to the aquarium and zoo, plus seeing Frozen on Ice.
I have mixed it up for the two week break so that it gives the kids some fun things to do, and mummy some time out as well.
Have you been thinking it is Friday? Is it due to the school holidays approaching that this is happening?
It will be good to not have to do the school run and other things in the afternoon.
Today is now Friday and I am off to get ready to go to the kids school. The girls have learnt some songs in Gundungurra for NAIDOC Week. The twins can now sing heads, shoulders, knees and toes in Gundungurra. Very impressive indeed.
What are you up to for the holidays?
Do you look forward to Fridays or is it just another day?
Sign up to my newsletter
Do you wish to stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
Note:I have partnered with Voome. Yes this is very exciting news.
Here is the first of many articles to come. Also with the content partnership my articles will be appearing on the Voome Blog. I am a firm believer in wellness and being healthy and I love sharing great articles and inspiration to be the best you can be. I hope you enjoy these articles from my content partner Voome.
What is Voome?
Voome is a website that designs recipes just for you and workouts as well. Get inspired for meals, have shopping lists easily created and read some motivational articles as well.
Finding the time to exercise can be hard at the best of times. Throw winter into the mix – rainy days, freezing temperatures, layers upon layers of clothing just to leave the house – and this can really bring motivation levels down.
If you’ve ever felt that frustration, heck even guilt, for not getting out and exercising more – stop right there. Know you’re not alone and it is actually a lot harder than you give yourself credit for.
The Australian Physical Activity Guidelines recommend 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate intensity physical exercise per week. Over the course of 7 days, that’s around 20 to 40 minutes per day.
Cue the sound of Mum’s all around the world snorting with indignation at the suggestion of a free half hour each and every day of the week.
However, according to a recent survey by the ABS, 60% of adults do less than 30 minutes a day (you’re not alone!).
So how to fit more in? There are two pretty simple ways to get your body moving, sweat a little and burn a few calories: incidental exercise and express home workouts.
Feeling happy after the low impact workout from Voome. Now to get the shopping for the yummy healthy dinner.
Incidental Exercise
Incidental exercise refers to everyday movement that builds up over the day. Think: taking the stairs, running after the kids, doing all those loads of washing (who knew there could be so much!?).
By upping the ante on this, you can easily lift your heart rate, burn more energy and include this as part of your daily physical activity count.
How to get more incidental exercise
● Lunge your way to the bathroom from wherever you are – even from the back garden. It might look funny, but this will x10 your calorie burn than normal walking. Do this several times a day and you’ve strengthened and toned your butt and thighs, all while increasing your metabolism.
● Set an hourly alarm to do a lap of stairs in your house: Up and down 3x times.
● Plank in ad breaks or while warming something up in the microwave. Particularly during the morning shows as this will support your spine for the rest of your day.
● If you’re working from home at a desk, try a standing desk and march on the spot or squatting every paragraph or page.
Take a walk and feel great. Any time walking is always great.
Express Home Workouts
No, you don’t need a home-gym, or even dumbbells, to get a beneficial workout in. All you need is you.
Find a series of bodyweight routines that don’t require equipment or a lot of space and carve out a block of time (or several mini ones), each day to workout from your living room. Here are a few tips to get started.
● Find express workouts you can do anywhere, even at home in the bedroom. The less barriers (physical and time) there are, the easier it is to get started.
● Break a 20 minute workout into 4x 5 minute exercise circuits or 2 x 10 minutes. Check out these 5 minute mini routines!
● Ease into it. You may not be able to do workout every day, and that’s okay. Even if you don’t exercise for 10 days in a row, that’s okay too. Just don’t give up all together.
● Short on time? Push yourself that little bit harder and get a more intense workout in a smaller timeframe. This could be adding weights to your routine, progressing to the “next level” of a move (think: push ups on knees to push ups on toes) or aiming to fit in more repetitions in. However, ensure you always exercise safely and with proper technique. It’s better to perform a move perfectly than to rush through it to fit more in.
● Try the Low Impact Home Workout below!
The Workout: Voome’s Low Impact Home Workout for Busy Mums
Warmup
● 45 seconds of high knees
– TIP: March on the spot then transition from running to sprinting! Get that heart pumping.
Circuit #1 x 3 repetitions
● 20 x squats (take your bum as low as you can go)
– TIP: Start with your own bodyweight but progressively add weights (think: water bottles, laundry, canned food) as you get better
● 45 seconds of jumping jacks
● 20 x tricep dips
– TIP: Start with legs bent, if this is too easy straighten out your legs
Circuit #2 x 3 repetitions
● 10 x burpees
– As you progress add a push up to each burpee
● 20 x dynamic lunges (10 on each side)
● 45 seconds of mountain climbers
Final Blast
● 1 minute of planking
– Start on knees then progress to toes
Looking for more express workouts? Visit Voome and sign up for aone week free trial to experience 150+ workouts that can be done in less than 30 minutes!
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
I recently attendedThe Bloggers Brunchand had the opportunity to listen to Frank Caruso speak about his journey and how he has built such a successful business.
Frank explained how he had teachers that thought he was not bright and would not amount to much. He had doubters but he never kept on giving things a go. Frank Caruso’s talk was very motivational and made me think about my journey so far.
I had very similar things happen to me as a child. I was told that I was stupid. I would not be able to do this or that and I should just get an office job and forget about it.
Thank goodness, I was stubborn and did not listen to the doubters. I kept on plodding along and worked towards my goals.
Slowly but surely, I managed to get into the university I was drooling over. I managed to get in as a mature aged student. According to the universities mature age is from 20 years and older. I started my undergraduate degree at UTS (University of Technology, Sydney) when I was 23 years of age.
Frank invested in his health journey and was so passionate about it, it became a hugely successful family business.
Learning about Frank Caruso’s tips for success. In grade 3 one of his teachers told him he would never succeed at anything. Don’t let other people’s view of you dictate what you will become! This is one of the key points from Frank’s tips.
Hearing Frank talk at The Bloggers Brunch was inspiring and made me think of things I wish to achieve for my business and my family. Frank is contagious regarding motivating people about their dreams and passions.
It got me thinking about my health and wellness after I got home.
Since having kids, I want to make sure I look after myself. I want to be healthy and active for them, oh and myself as well.
I make sure to have good food, some exercise, rest, relaxation (although sometimes hard with a busy family), and time with the family to just be.
Part of looking after myself means that I make sure to get enough vitamins and minerals that my body will need to lead an active life.
Being a mum is tough job. You cannot afford to get sick (no sick leave, no sick pay, or nanny to come help) so being as healthy as you can is very important.
The kids and I in April 2016.
It is even tougher when kids get sick and you are the one that cares for them, dodging coughs, and snotty noses is next to impossible and therefore mum is the next one on the list to get ill.
Since having my last child, Alexander, I have noticed that my hair has been very dry and brittle. I don’t remember this happening after the twins. Maybe it did and I was so tired I never realised.
I mentioned this to the team at Caruso’s Natural Health and they recommended I try Super Collagen Builderfor Hair, Skin and Nails.
Super Collagen Builder for Hair, Skin and Nails from Caruso’s Natural Health.
I’ve been using the Super Collagen Builder for the last month and it seems to have made a difference to my hair. It appears softer, and not as dry. I will be continuing using this product to see what it does over a longer period.
I do eat quite well but like to ensure I’m getting the right vitamins and minerals with a multivitamin. I’ve been taking Women’s Super Multi. This is a multivitamin tailored for women on the go.
Women’s Super Multi by Caruso’s Natural Health
I take one multivitamin a day. I’m sure this has helped me feel better and allowed me to keep going when the kids have been unwell. This multivitamin helps you for all round health, heart, immune support, bone health, energy, stress and loads more.
Meeting Frank has made me see that I too can achieve what I set out to do. I already knew that health was extremely important and as a mum looking after myself is a top priority.
Not only will being healthy in my older years ensure that I am here for my kids but will allow me to lead a happier, and better life.
The inspirational and charming Frank Caruso from Caruso’s Natural Health. It was such a lovely thing to meet the wonderful man himself.
Have you met someone that has motivated you to be a better you? Frank Caruso is defiantly a person that encourages change in people. Frank is also proof that you should follow your passions and invest in you. The more you do this, the more successful you will be.
How do you make time for good health at your place?
Do you exercise with the kids?
Or maybe eating more vegetables and less refined food?
Let us know.
Sign up to my newsletter
Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One? Don’t miss a thing by signing up to my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.
