My mother has always said, “my blood runs through your veins”, and I understand the concept now more than ever. Just like the beauty and complexities of motherhood, seeing your babies for the first time inside your womb is beyond words. I’m technically a mother, but have trouble thinking of myself as one until I’m holding our children in my arms. Being a mother to a furry baby for 9 years has been one of the most special experiences, and has taught me so much about life, and my capacity for love. I am told that just when you think you couldn’t possibly love any more, you do.

wishing all moms (of two and/or four legged babies) a beautiful day

Hot off the presses is Mom, Inc.-the latest book from Meg Mateo Ilasco and co-author Cat Seto, and I can’t wait to read it! It is daunting to think about running my business while being a full time mom, an issue I’ll be facing very soon. The book covers everything from starting a blog to opening a shop, and tips on staying organized and focused on business while still fulfilling your mommy duties. With interviews from moms throughout the creative and entrepreneurial world, it is sure to inspire!

Ah, the adventure of finding the right diaper bag…fun, right? Mostly, yes-but I have found it to be a challenging decision! Considering I used to sell them, I felt I had a strong knowledge of the features I wanted, quality, and price. However the twins made me question it all…so I thought I would share my tips. When looking for the right bag for you, consider these points:

*Function…pockets, changing pad, a wide opening, easy to carry…all important things to look for!

*Style/form…don’t feel you have to sacrifice style for function…there are plenty of good looking ones that can have longer lives as a purse/tote  after baby needs have passed.

*Price…with so many options, there is something for everyone’s price point…don’t feel locked into big box store options, shop local boutiques and the web for unique choices!

*Cleanability…this bag is going to take a beating for sure, so wipeable materials on the inside and out are preferable!

*Stroller compatibility…one area many forget to consider…does it work well with your chosen stroller? How does it attach, is it easily accessible, does it compliment the design/look good?

In the end I chose this bag, which was large enough to accommodate our twin needs, was black and simple (my personal taste), has longevity as a tote in the future, and looks great on our Bugaboo Donkey. I first purchased this Storksak bag and liked it a lot, but after comparing the two I needed the larger size, and had no use for the two handles…I will only be using it in the messenger style. Also, don’t forget about Dad-I gave Mr. Nesting this one as a gift (we inherited it)…great idea for Father’s Day coming up. Good luck on your search, take your time, and have fun!

This makes me so happy…I bought these onesies years ago and now they are hanging in our nursery closet! It was my first purchase for our future children, knowing we wouldn’t be at that point for a while but still looking forward to the day. It’s still hard for me to believe the time has come, and I, myself, am finally NESTING!

It’s hard to believe I’m in the “twenties” now, and I’ve wished for it just like a teenager! For me it is a significant milestone in my pregnancy, as I am well over halfway through…crazy. I am savoring the second trimester, appreciating every day that I feel great and have energy, because I have an idea of what lies ahead for me in the third. It’s not going to be easy with twins, that’s for sure…but I am ready for the challenge! The babies are healthy, growing fast, and kicking me often…it’s truly amazing.

The first purchase I made after learning I was pregnant was a Mama Mio kit. I love all of their products, but my favorites are the tummy rub and boob tube! Even though the majority of skin issues are due to genetics or general health, I am hoping these keep issues at bay. I’m sure I will have some stretch marks with twins (gulp), but even so, I feel pampered when I use these every day. Check out their full line of products!

I’ve been doing a lot of reading lately, and would love to know your favorite reads and suggestions! Obviously we are reading some twin specific books, but also some very well known “classics”. My husband is reading The Expectant Father, and he is enjoying it!

lalltwelve weeks…two babies in utero…one in my arms!

After much research and thought on how to go about it, we decided to surprise my parents for Christmas! What better gift could we give them?! Right before seeing them, I took two new Clearblue pregnancy tests, the ones that say “pregnant” in the window (the text lasts for about 24 hours). I tied their soon to be nicknames to each one, labeled, and lovingly wrapped them. We put them under the tree, and waited for their arrival. Almost as soon as they walked in the door, we ushered them into our den and told them we had an early present for them both. We made sure they opened them at the same pace, and upon unwrapping them, their reaction was…blank stares! We had not realized that when my parents got pregnant with me, (in the seventies, ahem) there were no home pregnancy tests, and they had never seen one! So, after a minute or so (which seemed like an eternity), they finally saw the word PREGNANT. There were tears, laughter, hugs, and pure joy…in the end, it was perfect.

We cannot contain our excitement…we are expecting!!! It is something we have been wishing and planning for, and it is still hard to believe it has come true. After much thought we’ve decided to share it publicly before the “safe” point of the second trimester. We had an ultrasound, and saw (and heard) the strong heartbeat…S! Yes, that is an S, as in PLURAL. As in TWINS!! As in, WHOA. We were SO surprised, as it does not run in the family and we conceived naturally, but we aren’t complaining! We will be sharing our journey…les bébés are due in the summer, and we WILL be finding out the genders! Needless to say, this Christmas has been such a special one, and we are so very thankful. 2012 is going to be epic!