Double the Fun podcast is for pregnant, new or seasoned moms of twins/multiples and also moms of singletons. It will contain content for moms of toddlers & little kids and share thoughts about motherhood and on the work/life balance. The show is to encourage all twins/multiples moms, As the host, I will be real and provide/share my experiences, and reiterate that there is no “one way” to parenting well. My belief is that each mom is not perfect rather we are all just trying to do our best. Putting out these episodes is my way of cheering you on and providing content so you feel less alone and reassure you that you ARE doing a good job!
You can listen to Double the Fun on Apple iTunes here or on your iTunes App, on Stitcher here or on Spotify here.
I hope you will become a member of my free Double the Fun Podcast Community Facebook page! I have created this closed group for our most loyal listeners, and I am thrilled that you are here!
I hope you will find community and feel free to ask questions, relate to one another, provide podcast suggestions, comments on the episodes and anything else you can think of (keep it respectful, please)!
If you have not yet joined our Patreon community, you can do so here: www.patreon.com/doublethefunpodcast. Your financial help would be so appreciated to enable me to keep podcasting.
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How to Review A Podcast On iTunes (Now Apple Podcasts)
One of the best ways to support our podcast (or any podcast you’re enjoying) is to rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. But it’s not always easy or intuitive to do so.
Here’s step-by-step instructions on how to do so, either from your computer or from your phone or tablet:
How to leave an Apple Podcasts review on your computer:
1. Go to the Apple Podcasts landing page for the podcast you’d like to review (mine is https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/double-the-fun-podcast/id1471784410 )
2. Click the blue button below the title of my show that says “Listen on Apple Podcasts”
3. If you get the prompt “Do you want to allow this page to open iTunes?” select “allow”
4. Click “Ratings and Reviews”
5. Under “Customer Ratings,” click the stars 6. Next to “Click to Rate”
7. Under “Customer Reviews,” click “Write a Review”
7. write the review, click Submit
How to leave an Apple Podcasts rating or review on your iPhone or iPad:
1. Download the “Podcasts” app if it’s not already on your device.
2. Launch Podcast app.
3. Tap the Search tab (you need to do this even if I’m already listed in your app)
4. Enter “Double the Fun” (or name of podcast you’re searching for)
5. Tap the blue Search key at the bottom right.
6. Tap the album art for the podcast.
7. Tap the Reviews tab.
8. Tap the purple “Write a Review.”
9. Review, click Submit.
Here’s a YouTube video to walk you through the iPhone review steps, in case you prefer a visual guide.
Thanks for reviewing!
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Episode #32 – Podcast Hiatus
It’s good to take a break every so often. But I have a specific reason why I’m putting this podcast on hiatus. It mainly has to do with starting a new full-time job outside the home. I realize this break comes with additional benefits such. A podcast hiatus is an opportunity to catch my breath, reassess what is working, and tweak things so that in the future, Double the Fun is even stronger. In this Episode #32, I share the details about why I am putting this podcast on hold and what that means for you. The best thing you can do is Subscribe to DTF so that when I return, you are the first to know.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #31 – Mom Superpowers vs. Kryptonite
I’m Blowing My Cover to Share Some Secrets
Every mother is superwoman in my book. She gets up each morning with her invisible cape of courageous and compassionate nurturing qualities, valiant meal preparation, brave meltdown management, bold sibling rivalry resolution making, gallant and bold event and activity scheduling. Yet, every wonder woman also has Kryptonite, those things that are hard and weaken our heroine. Meltdowns, kids throwing food, a dirty house can cause this phenom to buckle at her feet and ask the Gods to step-in and provide a shield of defense and a lightning bolt of inspiration and power. In this Episode, I talk about my superpowers and Kryptonite in terms of my own parenting as a mother to our twins. I talk about those things that come more easily and skillfully vs those tasks or behaviors my kids do that can be more challenging for me to handle. *Episode inspired by The Mom Hour Podcast.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources:
The Mom Hour Podcast
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Episode #30 – Milestones & Memory Keeping
How I Have Documented My Kid’s Progression & Preserved Memorabilia
From the moment you learn you’re going to be a parent, you spend 9 months preparing for your baby’s arrival. Baby come and the next moment you’re watching them make their first smile, roll over, crawl, walk, eat solid foods, say their first words, and more. How and what do you use to hold onto precious memories, videos and pictures that you treasure? In this episode, I talk everything about what did/am doing to track my twins’ milestones and preserve the memories that they have and will create as they grow.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources:
Here is a great blog article of ideas on how to preserve memories:
20 Memory Keeping Ideas: From the Mouths of Moms By Krissy of B-Inspired Mama
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Episode #29 – Fostering Happiness in Parenting
(What Makes My Heart Warm In the Midst of the Challenges of Being A Mom)
Happiness as a parent can sometimes be elusive and challenging to live inside, but it can also be found in the delight of selflessly loving and caring for a child. In this episode, I talk about what things contribute to my happiness in parenting, what detracts from it and I touch on how I try to foster happiness in various aspects of life: home, work, parenting and relationships.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #28 – Keeping Your House Clean Enough
(What I Do to Maintain An Aesthetically Supportive Space Without Being Over-the-Top)
Vacuuming, cleaning, dusting, wiping, sweeping and more…what is the fascination with learning how others take care of their home or space? I have found it intriguing hearing about the how-tos of keeping things spic and span. In this episode, I talk about what I do to keep our home clean enough. No, it’s not sparkling or gleaming, yet it is tidy and good enough to feel comfortable and happy in. You may wonder what this has to do with being a parent or having multiples, but I believe it does. Maintaining a decently put-together space is conductive and helpful for supporting the emotional happiness, productivity and function of everyday living for everyone in a family. Tune in to this Episode #28 to get some ideas on how to maintain a fairly decent residence. And I’m also interested in what you can relate to and whether you have tips or tricks up your (cleaning) sleeves for me!
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #27 – How I Do: Birthday Parties (Ages 0-Kindergarten)
(The Inside Scoop On Throwing A Successful Bash for Your Kiddos)
From fancy, Pinterest-inspired birthday bashes to simple homey celebrations with donuts and family, birthday parties can look wildly different. But for moms today, planning a birthday party can feel a little like a competition against our friends and even ourselves. But one thing all parties do is reveal a mom’s heart to celebrate how much they love their children, value enabling space for their kids to have fun, socialize and share in the memories of their birth. On today’s episode, I share how I’ve done birthday parties, although only two of them. By no means am I an expert or professional party planner. Yet, I’ve thrown two and they’ve gone off fairly successfully. I share everything from choosing a theme, buying decorations, options for invitations, where to host it, choices of how to serve food, what type of cake or dessert to have, activities to offer during the party, gift bags or not, and more.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #26 – Meal Planning
(A 9-Week Rotational System of Dinners)
Keeping things creative and interesting in the kitchen for yourself, your partner and kids can be both challenging and tiring at times. But it can also be exciting, exercise your creative skills and can keep eating and mealtimes spicy and interesting. In this episode, I describe in detail what inspired me to create/tweak the Meal Plan that I currently use today. I share the binder I use, how I’ve created Word Docs that include a Grand 9-Week Meal Plan calendar, grocery lists and recipes and how I use each to enable to make cooking for my family pretty easy!
You can listen to this episode here.
*If you wish to purchase this Meal Plan, you can get it for $20.00! That’s a great value considering you will receive over 60 recipes, 9 grocery lists and a 9-Week Meal Plan Calendar! Just send an email to me at doublethefunpodcast@gmail.com to let me know you are interested in buying this and I will be in touch with you with the payment details and how to receive it!
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Episode #25- Sleep Training
(You CAN get through this season mamas!)
Disclaimer: I am not a doctors or sleep training expert. What I AM is a mom (of multiples) who had a positive experience with sleep training. Please consult with your pediatrician about the specific needs of your child before beginning any sleep training program.
Sleep! This is a MUCH discussed topic among twin/multiple and also singleton moms. One of the most common questions I am asked when strangers find out that I have twins is, “How did you do sleep training?” The insanity and exhaustion caused from bad or lack of sleep is unlike anything I have experienced before or since. Parents seem to be scarred by those early weeks and months when they walked through life in a half-awake daze. So much so that people with grown kids still immediately think of the sleep question when they think about babies.
I remember when I talked to fellow multiples and singleton moms during the months I was sleep training the twins, when ours were sleeping through the night consistently, I got the sense they felt as though their twins or baby should be sleeping through the night too…mostly because of peer pressure. Look, having a child who consistently sleeps through the night is wonderful! It helped me get my sense of self back. I performed at home at my mom duties so much better. I had the energy to walk/run in the mornings, clean at home, even hop on the computer and send emails and check Facebook, have sex and generally function decently. Having the twins sleep through the night was important to me and my husband. This might not be important for your family! Don’t find problems where they don’t exist. Sleep training can be tough work, so it is not to be approached by those who do not desperately need it.
Don’t solve a problem you don’t have. If you and your co-parent are happy with the state of sleeping in your household, this episode may not fully be for you, although I believe you can benefit from feeling a sense of camaraderie and relatability to how you experienced some similar challenges and experiences as ours. is not for you. At least I hope you will share/mention this podcast with someone who might need!
In this episode, I discuss all things sleep training, from how to prepare your baby’s nursery, what types of accessories helped our twins, how sleep training twins is different and what you can do. I also described and explained my personal approach to sleep training. I talk about how it put them on a 9-1-5 schedule, how feedings and activity went. I also share what my 21-month old twin toddlers sleep schedule is like now.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources
Dream On Me Violet 7 in 1 Convertible Life Style Crib
Naomi Home Brisbane Glider & Ottoman Set White/Cream
White Noise Sound Machine, HoMedics Sound Spa
Night Lights for Kids and Babies, Multicolor Star Projector with Timer for Bedtime
HALO SleepSack Micro-Fleece Swaddle, Baby Blue, PreemieHALO SleepSack Micro-Fleece Swaddle, Baby Blue, Preemie
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier, Blue, 0-3 Months, 2 Count
NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Lined Curtains
Fisher-Price Deluxe Bouncer: Geo Meadow (We fed the twins in these)
Bottle Holders (They are no longer sold by the maker on Amazon, so I found these which seem comparable –>) Baby Bottle Hands Free Holder Multifunction, by Pengsha Qi
Dr. Brown’s Original Bottle Newborn Feeding Set
Boppy Bare Naked Nursing Pillow & Pillow Slipcover
Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo
THE TWIN Z PILLOW
Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick ‘n Play Piano Gym
The Play Gym by Lovevery; Stage-Based Developmental Activity Gym & Play Mat
*Please send me an email if you would like a copy of the Baby Output Document that I used to input and analyze feedings type and time, bowel movements/pee diapers, activity (what and when) and notes.
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Episode #24 – Raising Siblings Who Like Each Other
(Fostering and Providing Opportunity for friendship between your kids)
I think one of the greatest challenges of parenting is raising siblings who like each other. Parents not only have to find ways to let each child know they are special and loved, but they also need to help them learn how to share and cooperate. Ultimately, we as parents hope to lay a foundation for our kids to become a strong sense of love, support, comfort and pleasure for each other as they journey into adulthood. But it can be a hard thing to foster. Especially with multiples. I feel as though sibling rivalry can be up there in terms of the type of distress and concern parents undergo, close to average behavior problems. But, I truly believe that we can create an atmosphere where sibling love is part of the dynamics in our home. In this episode, I talk about interventions/conflict, comparison, jealousy/attention, “forcing vs. allowing” siblings to share and form friendships and more.
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #23 – How I Do: Laundry
(A Fluffy Topic, But An Important Household Task)
In this episode, I discuss a very “fluffy” (ha ha! play on words) topic: Laundry. This topic is inspired by a few other podcasters (as acknowledged in the show). Let’s face it, as moms, we are typically the humans who do the majority of this task and we are always looking for tips and ideas about how to make it more efficient and effective. I am no expert, but in this show I share when and how I do our laundry, what products I use, when I fold and how I put clothes away and more. I hope you will find some new ideas or just be able to relate to how things are done in our household.
You can listen to this podcast here.
Resources
All Free & Clear Plus+ HE Liquid Laundry Detergent, 158 loads, 237 fl oz (Costco)
(2 pack) Dreft Laundry Stain Remover, 24 Oz (Walmart)
Wool Dryer Balls 3-Pack XL, 2.96″ Natural Organic Fabric Softener
AmazonBasics Foldable Clothes Drying Laundry Rack – Chrome
Sterilite 2-Bushel (71 L) Ultra Laundry Basket, White
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Episode #22 – Personality Types & Parenting
(How My Type In 4 Indicators Influences How I Parent)
The Enneagram has greatly influenced and impacted how I view and interact with both myself and others. It also seems within the last 5 years everyone is talking about this personality/behavior typing personality tools. Additionally, there are other systems and indicators that delve into the wide world of personality typing and behavior predictors. On this episode, I discuss (briefly) 4 of these systems: Introversion/Extroversion within the model of the Myers-Briggs Indicator, The 5 Love Languages, Gretchen Rubin’s 4 Tendencies, and finally the Enneagram. I share what I have scored in each of these tests and how after learning my numbers or groups of letters the results have been incredibly valuable to me as an individual. The Enneagram, in particular, has helped me understand myself better and how they play a part in how I parent.
You can listen to this podcast here.
Resources
Myers Briggs Indicator Information and the The 16 Personalities Myers-Briggs Quiz
Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies and the Quiz. Books by Gretchen Rubin: The Four Tendencies, Better Than Before, The Happiness Project, and Happier At Home
The Enneagram Institute and the $12 paid test or a free test and another
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #21 – Poopy Diapers, Sick Kids, and Teething Torment…Oh My!
(Navigating All the Icky Gross Stuff…)
As mamas, along with the wonderful joyous things like watching our children reach milestones, gazing into the sweet eyes of an infant, experiencing the exhilaration of your child taking his/her first steps, you also have to deal with all the icky and gross stuff: Poop, sick kids and teething…to name a few. In this Episode #21, I cover all these not-so-pleasant tasks and situations. I cover how, what used and when I handled poop, how and what to do with rashes and what types of cream, diapers and wipes I used. I also delve into the world of sick kids, how to “read” symptoms and what to do at home to alleviate discomfort and pain. Finally, I touch on teething and what resources and items I used to lessen their pain.
You can listen to this podcast here.
Resources
*Poopy Diaper Management
Desitin Daily Defense Baby Diaper Rash Cream
Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment
Boudreaux’s Butt Paste Diaper Rash Ointment
Pampers Swadlers (on Amazon)
Kirkland Signature Supreme Diapers-Sizes 1-6 (Costco)
Amazon Elements Baby Wipes, Sensitive, 480 Count
Kirkland Signature Baby Wipes 900-count (Costco)
Dekor Plus Hands-Free Diaper Pail
Germ-X Hand Sanitizer, Aloe, Pump Bottle, 30 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 4)
12 Types of Baby Poop and What They Mean (Infographic) Here!
Sick Kids
Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Cough Syrup + Mucus with Dark Honey & Ivy Leaf
Hyland’s Baby Cough Syrup, Natural Relief of Coughs
GoodSense Children’s Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, 100 mg per 5 mL
Little Remedies Infant Fever & Pain Reliever (Tylonol)
NoseFrida The Snotsucker Baby Nasal Aspirator and Saline Nasal Spray Kit
Medline 2 oz Sterile Bulb Ear Syringes (3 Pack)
Teething
Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys
Baby Banana Infant Training Toothbrush and Teether
Punkin Butt Teething Oil 2 oz.
Munchkin Fresh Food Feeder, 2 Pack
Baltic Amber Teething Necklace for Babies (Unisex) (Raw Rainbow)
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Episode #20 – The “Mish-Mashed Sprinkling of Miscellaneous Topics” Podcast!
A Random Treat of My Thoughts On A Variety of Things
As I’ve been out-and-about just doing my momming, I hear other parents ask questions, make comments and just share stories that have inspired me to want to put in my little two-cents. In this Episode #20, I put forward my thoughts and ideas about these. I talk about cranial helmets, getting outside/into the public with your kids, online vs. in-person friendships, hobbies and passions outside of motherhood, the tried-and-true favorite toys my twins have had, and tie up this colorfully varied podcast with a big bow of talking about great gift ideas for moms.
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #19 – Being A Helicopter vs. “Hippie” Mom…
(Uber-Engaging Leading vs. Creatively Intuitive Guidance Parenting)
Overprotective, over-involved, or over-focused on your kid? Or perhaps too laise faire, too permissive or non-involved? Which category do you think your parenting style falls into? Or, perhaps you are in-between these extremes? In this episode, I loosely define the differences between a helicopter mom vs a hippie (also known as “free-range”) mom/parent. I then discuss examples of how my own parenting actions, decisions and behaviors I have so far have fallen along the spectrum of these two types of approaches.
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #18 – Organizing, Tidying, and Scheduling
(A little “peak” into how I do things to keep things running as smoothly as possible…)
Keeping things fairly decent and tidy as a mom is just plain hard, especially during certain seasons of parenthood. In this episode, I talk about my main organization and tidying systems that I use in the living room/play area with the kid’s toys/furniture. I also share about how I keep the kitchen clean and kid’s things organized such as their food, sippy cups, bottles and more. I move into their bedroom and I discuss how I organize, store or decide when and how to get rid of their clothes using various tools I use such as bags, boxes, tubs and baskets. I then move into a discussion about how I schedule events and activities for the kid’s and whole family, and share about the tools used such as Google Docs, white boards, calendars and other reminders.
You can listen to this podcast here.
Resources
North States Superyard Colorplay Ultimate 6-Panel Play Yard Baby Gates
TomCare Cube Storage 6-Cube Bookshelf Closet Organizer
Philips Avent Drying Rack
Elacra 10-Pack Baby Food Storage Freezer Container
Squooshi Reusable Food Pouch, Animal 6 Pack, 6 Large Pouches
IRIS USA, Inc. TB-28 Stack & Pull Box, 31.75 Quart, Clear, 6 Pack Storage Tubs
2019-2020 Academic Planner – Weekly & Monthly Planner
Amazon Jumbo Dry Erase Laminated Wall Calendar, Huge 24-Inch by 36-Inch Size
Quartet Cork Board, Bulletin Board, 23″ x 35″, Corkboard, Oak Finish Frame
Jayden 3 Drawer Changer Dresser in White
Davinci Jayden 4-Drawer Dresser, White
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier, Blue, 0-3 Months, 2 Count
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Episode #17 – Having 2 Miscarriages
(Sharing My Real Life Experiences)
Every pregnancy loss is different and there is no right or wrong way to feel. The loss of a baby can be a scary, unhappy, and lonely experience. In this episode, I get raw, real and even teary as I share openly about the two miscarriages I’ve had, one very recent. I discuss what happened, the emotions I’ve felt, and the takeaways from them. I also discuss how my faith played a role in the process of honing my patience and trust as I waited for the outcome, and also after I found out the final news.
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #16 – Interview with Ashley Aiken
(A Woman Doing A Kick-A*^ Job Balancing Being A Single Working Mom to Twins)
Being a mother of multiples is challenging enough when you have a spouse to help share the load, or when being a stay-at-home-parent. But there are parents out there who are single and/or working who have a much larger load to carry. Ashley Aiken is one of these amazing parental wonders who is doing it both with such strength, fortitude and relative calmness. In this episode, I talk to my good friend about the ups and downs, challenges and joys and inside scoop of how she has had to utilize state and federal help, donations of generous and kind people for clothes, toys and necessities, had the love and support of friends coming around her to help. But all-in-all, she’s had to take on 90% of the work of balancing everything while still being a truly great mom to her twins Scarlet and Serenity. You’ll be impressed and inspired by this young woman who is making it happen!
You can listen to this podcast HERE.
Resources
Here are the resources that Ashley mentioned in the podcast, and some notes from her about each:
The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene
Bolthouse Farms Plant Based Milk
I give my girls the green bottle the orginal but I dilute it with regular unsweetened almond milk. So I take an empty bottle of the plant based milk & pour half into that and take the almond milk & poor half & half into each.
Simple Truth Organic Almond Milk
I used this almond milk for my girls, but any will work.
The Elderberry Shoppe
I give my girls about about 1 teaspoon every other day & it has antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system.
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Episode #15 – I Never Thought I Would…
(My Pre-Mom Parenting Plans vs. What Really Happened)
Before I had kids, I thought I would be “that mom” who had things planned out nicely, who’d run the house with ease, have control around schedules, naptimes, diaper changings and events. I thought I’d nurse for X-number of days, go on outings each day, etc. In this episode, I talk about what my education and brief synopsis of my work history, when I got married, then became a first time Mom and how that shaped my perspective on parenting. I discuss how I’ve changed, altered, tweaked or all-together ditched many of those “plans.”
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #14 – Parental Self-Care
(Keeping the Flame Burning to Avoid Burnout)
Let’s face it, most parents are overworked and exhausted and are surviving with minimal free time. In this episode, I discuss whole concept of “self-care” and it’s been such a trendy thing in the recent years. Self-Care can be redefined in the context and daily life of parenting. I talk about practicing self-care after putting the kids to sleep at bed or naptime, making date days or nights a priority, developing and spending time with friends, going on “mini-vacations” that are simple but refreshing, and how to use your precious alone time in productive yet soul-reinvigorating ways.
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #13 — Interview with Ashley Mukavetz
(From Teaching to Twins: A Fertility Story and More)
Many moms of multiples (twins, triplets, etc) have been through fertility treatments in order to become mamas. It can be a rough season, but also one of great reward and happiness when the outcome is successful. In this episode, I interviewed my friend, Ashley Mukavetz, teacher and current SAHM. Ashley shares her story of how she became pregnant after 3 years of trying, discovering the problem, tackling it head-on with IVF, and the wonderful result of beautiful boy/girl twins Cameron and Cooper. We also talk about the blossoming personalities of her 4-month kiddos, what her daily schedule looks like and what unique challenges and joys she’s experiencing being a mom of multiples.
You an listen to this episode here.
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Episode #12 – Toddler Series Part 5 – Socializing Your Toddler
Do you cringe at the thought of your toddler attempting to socialize with other kids and adults? After all, most early toddlers favorite words are “No!” and “Mine!” and they may awkwardly avoid making eye-contact with other kids and/or most of the time grab or steal a toy away from another, thus preventing true young friendship from having the chance to occur. In this episode, I discuss how to help your toddler learn how to socialize with various groups of people in an overall healthy, age-appropriate manner that will help them develop into becoming a good, faithful, respectful friend and citizen. I talk about the interaction with babysitters, grandparents/family, other toddlers, strangers, and siblings.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #11 – Pregnancy and Early Childhood Parenting “Then & Now”
“How we do things” as mamas is much different than from how we did things 30+ years ago. In this episode, I interviewed my mom, Beccy, also called “Gramma B” when she came to visit. I asked her several questions relating to what it was like when she was pregnant with my brother and I. What resources were available, how she prepared for each baby, what early motherhood was like postpartum and what emotional experiences she had as a new and second-time mother. We talk about the similarities and differences between parenting then vs. now.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #10 – Interview with Krystal Saucedo
(An Infertility Journey – Multiple Losses to Multiple Blessings)
Infertility is a tough thing to experience. My friend, Krystal Saucedo not only experienced it, but journeyed through the ups and downs of multiple losses and then finally ended in such redemptive and beautiful blessings. And not just 1! In this episode, I talk with Krystal about what her journey was like for over 5 years of trying, crying, hoping, praying and then an added surprise! Join with us as you will be amazed by her courage, determination, faith, authenticity and perseverance.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #9 – Interview with Amanda Manning
(From Infertility to Beautiful Fraternal Twins)
Perseverance and hope are the two words I can use to best describe the traits that my friend Amanda Manning exercised during her infertility journey into becoming a mom of twins. In this episode, I have this special guest share her story of patience, prayer, diagnoses, then the blessing. Amanda describes her experience with fertility treatments, becoming pregnant at the very final options, and what her pregnancy was like. She delves into sharing the story of her fraternal twin girls Emily and Elizabeth’s birth and how things went postpartum. Finally, she wrap-ups with how old the twins are currently, what they are into and she offers encouraging and hopeful words to moms-to-be either struggling with fertility issues themselves or who are pregnant with multiples.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources
Amanda Manning’s Instagram: @ aretheytwinsaz
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Episode #8 – Interview with Chelsea Harvil
(Nurturing A Healthy Marriage With Multiples)
In this episode, I interview my friend Chelsea Harvil, a friend and member of the multiples club I belong to. This show is all about how being parents has impacted our relationships as married couples. When becoming parents things can be hard as each partner navigates how to be a parent, let alone maintain and keep up a healthy and happy relationship. But we also can grow closer together in many ways also. Chelsea and I discuss the “story” of our marriages from pre-kids to present and discuss both the positives and negatives that have occurred since our wedding days into changing diapers and running after our little ones. Finally, we share some thoughts on how we keep marriage a priority while parenting young children.
You can listen to this episode here.
Amy’s Marriage Tips:
Date Nights or Day Dates – Just hire a babysitter or have a family member take care of the kids.
Try out new adventures like new restaurants, events or activities such as fairs, corn mazes, festivals, zoos, hiking, walking together, etc.
Show affection.
Vocalize gratitude.
Apologize.
Communicate.
Set boundaries and expectations.
Offering the other spouse to have solo time while you take care of the kiddos. Ask for them to do the same.
Just make time for sex! It’s the glue in the relationship.
Cultivating being and maintaining your Best-friendship-ness.
Showing equality in the relationship.
Chelsea’s Marriage Tips:
Make sure that your spouse is first; not your kids
Do the things you used to do before kids
Have a “at the end of my rope” card or phrase – allow yourself the option to tell your spouse when you really need a break, and same for him…you’ll be more likely to give each other a break if you’re feeling well rested and refreshed yourself
Let hubby come home and shower and relax for 30 mins before diving in.
Sleep in one day a weekend for each of you.
Give hubby the baby monitor!!!!
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Episode #7 – Interview with Heather Wheelock
(A Mom’s Story with Her Twins from Pregnancy to Present)
In this episode, I have a special guest, Heather Wheelock. Heather is a friend from the Busy Bees Moms of Multiples club we belong to. She is working in Real Estate and does photography on the side, as well as balancing all of that with being the primary caretaker of her now almost 1 year old twins Harlow and Oliver. She and I discuss the ups and downs of her pregnancy with her twins, her postpartum experience and what life has been like for her as a twin mom up to present day. She also shares what her kiddos are into now and what she is looking forward to as they move past the 12 month mark. Finally, we wrap up the show with Heather’s encouraging message to moms of multiples and moms in general.
You can listen to this podcast here.
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Episode #6 – Toddler Series Part 4 – Vacationing With Your Toddler
In this episode, I discuss tips and tricks for going on road trips with your kids, flying, staying in hotels, using hotel pools, visiting relatives and going to amusement parks. During the show, I share a few stories from our own experiences.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources Mentioned:
North States Baby Gates
Portable Changing Pad by Mom Pulse
VTech Brilliant Baby Laptop
LeapFrog Learning 100 Words Book
YGJT Baby Music Toys Piano Keyboard
Goplus 2Pc Kid Luggage
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Episode #5 – Toddler Series Part 3 – Venturing Out In Public
In this episode, I discuss tips and tricks we do when we venture out in public. I talk about several different places we take our kids and what we do to mitigate meltdowns or fussiness, boredom or hunger. I delve into thoughts on taking toddlers to restaurants, parks, the beach or swimming pools, movie theaters, the doctor’s office, play places, and the grocery store.
You can listen to this episode here.
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Episode #4 – Toddler Series Part 2 – Grooming Your Toddlers
In this episode, I talk about all the aspects of grooming toddlers: brushing teeth, keeping hands and nails clean, bath time, hair care and dressing/clothing and I talk a bit about our bedtime routine.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources Mentioned:
BurningDream Baby Teether and Banana Toothbrush
Nuby Electric Monkey Toothbrush
Kid’s Colgate Toothpaste
Foam Bath Toys Preschool Alphabet
Animal Rubber Duckies
Fun Express Funnels
MooToys Bath Stacking Toys/Cups
Safety 1st Deluxe Baby Grooming Kit (Includes the Infant Nail Clippers and Comb I mentioned)
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Episode #3 – Toddler Series Part 1 – Preparing Your Home and Communicating With and Feeding your Toddlers
In this episode, I discuss how to prepare your home and self for the toddler stage. I delve into how to toddler-proof the rooms of your home, and how to keep your possessions, self and your kids as safe as possible. I then go into how to communicate with your early toddler.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources Mentioned:
North States Baby Gates
Graco Simpleswitch Portable High Chair
Splat Mat for Under Highchair/Arts/Crafts
Waterproof Silicone Bibs
Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowl, 3 Count
Toddler Utensils Baby Spoons & Baby Forks Set
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Episode #2 – More About Me + Post-Partum
In this episode, I further discuss a bit of my background (where I went to school, what occupations/jobs I’ve held, and what I’m currently doing). Then, I go on to discuss how things when post-partum after I gave birth to the twins. I talk about how my husband and I created a sleeping and feeding schedule from the get-go, how breast-feeding, pumping and formula feeding went, doing placenta encapsulation, did tummy time for the twins, what types of materials we used, and more.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources Mentioned:
Philips Avent Pacifier
Spectra Baby Breastpump
Breastpumping Bra
Fisher Price Baby Bouncer
Podee Hands Free Baby Bottle
Similac NeoSure Formula (I used this from Birth – 6 months)
Kirkland Brand Infant Formula (I used this from 6+ months)
Kirkland Signature Supreme Diapers
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Episode #1 – Introduction and My Birth Story
In this episode, I introduce myself, the reason for the title of this podcast and it’s purpose, what inspired me to launch, and what types of topics and themes you can expect in future episodes. I also share my pregnancy and Birth Story of our now 19.5 month old toddlers (at the time of this recording) boy/girl twins Zoe and Zeke.
You can listen to this episode here.
Resources Mentioned:
Dr. Randall Craig (Fertility Specialist)
Natural Vitality Calm Magnesium Powder
Life Extension Neuro-Mag Supplement
Podcasts I Recommend:
The Mom Hour
The Pump and Dump Show
What Fresh Hell
The Girl Next Door
Totally Mommy
Edit Your Life
Spawned
Coffee & Crumbs
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Mama's Musings 