Entry for Giveaway Ends Today!

The $25 KozyPal Cart Cover Gift Certifcate Giveaway ends today, Feb 28th, at 11:59 PM CST.  Click here for entry instructions.  Good Luck!

The return of stroller weather:7 A.M. Enfant Duo Stroller Bag

If you can almost hear Handel's Messiah playing in the background of this post, it's because that is what the return of stroller weather means to this mommy of twins. The ability to strap my little twins into the double stroller and leave the house for a long walk is a beautiful thing. Alas, when you and your twins live in a climate like Chicago, bitterly cold snowy weather has kept you inside for months. However, the end is near. Some slightly more tolerable weather and an amazing double stroller blanket by 7 AM Enfant have me rejoicing.

The Blanket DUO is my new ticket to the outdoors. It's an exclusive concept designed by the Studio 7 A.M.® and it is the ideal accessory for your twins. With an elasticized toggle for a perfect fit, it slips over your Double Stroller in a minute. A few velcro straps help keep it in place, and a few built in pacifier leashes help keep the binkies in place. Additionally, it's single center zipper makes getting the twins in and out without removing the blanket a cinch. The Duo features a breathable Dupont® Teflon® shell that protects from wind and rain. It's lined with a weight-efficient insulation offering light weight and optimal heat retention.

The Duo fits my Valco Double Tri-mode stroller perfectly, and with the elastic toggle it is certain to adapt to most. Both of my boys seemed plenty warm and quite comfortable. I really love how it is quite warm without weighing the little guys down. Plus the zipper makes opening it up when the sun comes out a two second process. If you need something really warm and easy to use, go with the Duo.

The Duo is available in a variety of colors. They also make single style blankets for those of you who have tandem style strollers.

The twins have become friends with their shoes by Jack & Lilly

The twins are not quite walking or even crawling yet, but that's not stopping them from wearing some cool shoes.  

The twins are actually huge fans of wearing cool stuff on their feet.  They love to lay on their backs and talk to their shoes. So we were excited when we were sent some adorable sport car shoes by Jack & Lily recently.  We have carried on a very nice conversation with our Jack & Lily's each time we have worn them thus far.  

Aside from the fact these shoes are excellent conversationalists, you might be interested to know that they are handcrafted in Canada from premium 'lamb touch' leather.  Sounds good right?  Well it is.  We found the leather to be very soft and pliable.  

This attribute makes for snug-yet flexible fit on your little one.  When you have twins, you definitely don't have time to be finding a lost shoe constantly, so this fit was very appreciated.  These shoes went on and stayed on.  The soles were flexible and skid resistant.  We like skid resistant stuff even though we aren't walking.  It really makes exersaucer play easier.  I'd be remiss if I didn't mention, you can even machine or hand wash these little shoes.  Since I find my twins love to chew on each other's feet, this another much appreciated feature.  

Jack & Lily are currently offering free shipping with orders of 2 or more pairs via their online store.  And what parent of twins does not need 2 or more pairs?   [Promotional Code:  FREESHIP]

"Blog" Candy Emily Hoyt

This is just a quick note to tell all of our readers about some of the illustrations that will be appearing on our site.  We have been working hard to make the site beautiful and in the quest for some cute graphics to accompany our non-review posts, we stumbled upon Wall Candy by Emily.  

Emily's work is available via her Emrick123 Etsy Shop.  She has items available for download as well as prints she will mail to you.  Her work would look perfect in any nursery.  Twin parents will especially love some of her animal duo prints.

Thanks for making our site even cuter, Emily!

Table Toppers by Neat Solutions

As a mommy of 5, including twin 8 month old babies, I find we are on the go a lot.  Being on the go with twin babies just starting to eat finger foods conjures up immediate concerns regarding germs to a lot of parents.

Neat Solutions has come up with a pretty neat solution for this problem, Table Toppers.  Table Toppers are disposable, stick-in-place placemats.  They are designed to provide a clean eating surface for while your little ones are eating out.  It should also be noted that they are BPA, PVC,  & Phthalate Free.  Table Toppers are available in a couple different patterns that should help captivate and entertain your new eater.  These patterns include Winnie the Pooh, Baby Einstein, Dora the Explorer, and Sesame Street.

Throw some in your diaper bag and throw them out when you are done.  If you are worried about the environment, be sure to purchase the ones designated Eco-friendly.  

I wish I had these back when my now 14 year old son was little.  He is severely allergic to several food items and these would have been equally perfect to protect him from food contaminates.

Readers can fill out a form online at www.tabletopper.com to be entered into a weekly drawing for free Neat Solution items.

Keep diaper rash at bay, the Bummas way.

"What are Bummas for?" asked my 7 year old daughter when they arrived a couple weeks ago. I rattled off their cute little slogan, "After the wipe and before the dipe" but she was still completely perplexed.  Since odds are you may be baffled too, allow me to explain.

Bummas are 5"x7" cloths made from 100% cotton velour terry cloth.  Bummas are designed to dry off a baby's bottom and other "spots" after you have cleaned the darling up with your choice of baby wipes.  They can also be used for blocking those surprise squirts that have occurred all too frequently around our home with twin boys.  And attention "green families" with a little douse of water, they can be used in place of commercial baby wipes.  Babies with a particularly sensitive bum would also benefit from their parents using these with water over a commercial baby wipe.   

Additionally, Bummas can be utilized in the bath as baby washcloths or thrown in a diaper bag for general mishaps and such.

Bummas are available in four color sets.  We received the one called "the boys".  The set pictured is called "the wild ones".  There is also a set called "the girls" and a set called "the calm ones". 

We used some of our Bummas to try off parts and fend off surprise attacks.  They worked well for that purpose.  They worked equally well in the bath as a washcloth.  In fact, I like Bummas better than some of my other baby washcloths.  We haven't had any diaper rash flare ups since these arrived, but I can see where these and a bit of water would be the best choice for an already irritated bottom.

Throw a pack of Bummas in the next baby shower gift basket you assemble.  Your receiver will definitely find plenty of uses for them.

Giveaway Reminder!

Just a quick reminder note ...

The $25.00 KozyPal Cart Cover Gift Certificate Giveaway is ending Feb. 28th at 11:59 pm.  Don't miss your chance to win!  

Enter now here.

Twin Layette Shopping List:

So you are pregnant with twins or you know someone who is having twin babies soon?  Here is a twin babies layette shopping list that we hope will be of help to you.

• 10-12 onsies (long sleeve for winter babies)
• 10-12 pants/leggings/or leg warmers (skip these if you are having summer babies & won't be running the air conditioning)
• 10-12 one piece snap or zip infant footed pajamas
• 10-12 cotton socks
• 2-4 cotton hats (keeps preemies warm)
• 4-6 swaddler blankets or sleeping sacks
• 6 receiving blankets
• 24 burp cloths
• 6 hooded towels
• 8-10 infant washcloths
• 6-12 infant bibs
• 3-4 crib sheets per crib

Winter Twin Babies will also need:

• 2 snowsuits/bunting bags or a car seat bunting
• 2 winter weight hats

Consider color coding your layette if you are having two babies of the same sex.  Even fraternal twins can be hard to tell apart at first, especially for visitors.

A few other things you might want to have on hand:  pacifiers, diapers, wipes, diaper cream, baby soap, saline nose spray, infant tylenol, and baby nail clippers.

Where do all the Binkies go?Pluggy Pacifier Bibs by Traveling Pea

Where do all the binkies go?  As all my friends will attest, this was my status message on facebook about a week or two before the Pluggy Pacifier Bibs by Traveling Pea arrived.  An old friend of mine replied back, "under couches, beds, behind dressers, toy boxes... everywhere!!"

Isn't that the truth? I remember when finding a pacifier in one of my coat pockets a good 2 years after my daughter stopped using one. Pacifiers are just one of those things you never want to lose, but can never seem to find. Traveling Pea has produced a perfect remedy for this vanishing pacifier problem.

The Pluggy Pacifier Bib conveniently holds your little one’s pacifier, keeping it clean, & close within your baby‘s reach. The bib helps to eliminate all that time spent looking for a lost pacifier and all those inconvenient trips to a faucet when baby's prized binky ends up on the floor. This is especially helpful when in the car, running in a store, or even traveling on a plane.

The bibs were easy to use, easy to clean, and comfortable for my babies to wear.  Another plus is that they come in a variety of colors and patterns.  I find these a double great find for any parent of twins.  

Their online store is featuring a special right now, if you use [promotional code: winter] you will receive 20% off your entire order, as well as free shipping!

Babycapes:Innovative Outerwear for Little Ones

Winter coats are so "last year" for the little ones.  What's with all the babies in capes?  Is there a new winter fashion craze sweeping the nation?  

There is among the informed parents of little ones.  As I mentioned in a previous blog, the non-profit organization Car-Safety.org generally does not recommend a child wear a winter coat while in the car seat. The reason for this being that the car seat harness straps must remain tight on the child’s shoulders and bulky clothing can hinder this requirement. 

While on a quest to find a better alternative than bulky coats for my twins, I came across a couple innovative options.  I have personally tested both of these products with my twin boys and find them both to be not only safer, but easier to use than a traditional coat.  Ease of use being a huge plus for any mom, especially a parent of twins.

The first option was a product called The Car Seat Poncho and you can find the review for that item here.

The second option I found is a product by Babycapes.  

I received two BabyCapes that are a light blue minky marshmallow fabric trimmed in matching blue gingham.  They slip over the babies heads and have a couple snaps at the neckline to aid in this process.  The capes also feature an attached hood and little hand slits.  The back is slit open, a bit like a hospital gown, with a snap to close it when not in the car.  This slit makes it very easy to place your child in their seat without sitting on any portion of the cape.  Once seated, the BabyCape lifts up in front for easy buckling access.  The design makes it an extremely car seat friendly baby coat.  It is also an equally great coat to wear when you will be working with stroller straps or one of those forward facing baby wearing carriers.

My darling boys managed to get the cape dirty on the first run, as a result I can assure everyone that Babycapes wash well too.  Twin mommies and daddies, put a couple Babycapes on your wishlist.  You'll thank me and them for it.

Celebrate anything with aChalkydoodles Banner

Every day brings some sort of celebration around your home when you have 5 children.  The months of February and March will bring 3 birthdays to celebrate in our immediate household alone.  With all these celebrations going on, we need party decor with great flexibilty.

Chalkydoodles has created the perfect re-useable banner for all families, big or small.  This chalkboard banner is made with their signature Chalk Blocks™ and the oilcloth fabric of the buyers choice.  The small set includes 8 squares with grommets on top.  You just write your message, string them on a ribbon of your choice, and hang them up.

When our set arrived, I did a quick test run (as you can see from my photo).  They were every bit as cute as they looked in the pictures posted on Chalkydoodles Online Store.  The quality was excellent.  They have nice finished edges with stitching that looks perfect.  The grommets look professionally placed and well done as well.

I placed the Chalk Blocks on my desk once I was finished testing them out.  My 7 year old daughter returned home from school a short time later and immediately had a 100 questions about them.  Which meant of course, she really wanted to try them out herself.  Once I was certain I had done all I needed with them, off she went with the Chalk Blocks, the ribbon laying next to them, and my chalk.  Last I saw, they were strung in her room with some hand drawn pictures on each of them.  So, I guess it goes without saying there are many other uses for these blocks beyond the obvious.

Now what I am I suppose to use to decorate for these upcoming birthday parties?

Traveling with babyleads Mom to create TableTot

A TableTot originally arrived for us to test via mail.  My 10 year old son was rather intrigued by it.  Once I showed him what it does, he said he could have designed that and made millions. Don't you just love kids?  In any event, he was not the brains behind this one.  

Owner/creator Jan tells me, "I designed it originally to use traveling with my own baby 28 years ago while working on the road and living in hotels . I used it every day for over two and a half years!"

What is a TableTot?  It is a portable baby high chair and travel seat made of soft quilted fabric & a D-ring. When in use, it converts a grownup chair into a baby seat for the 6 month and older crowd.  It can also be used to better secure your child in a grocery cart or as a barrier between your child and a restaurant highchair.  Their website gives detailed pictures and instruction, so stop by and check it out.

We found it simple to use and really fell in love with the black polka dot and red design.  Another benefit is that it folds up small enough to fit in your diaper bag.  I think Urban parents will especially like this one.

$5.00 Rebate for our readers:  To receive a $5.00 rebate check with your order, please email tabletot@gmail.com and mention "And Twins make 5".

The twins are feeling egdy in Baby Rock Apparel

If you are looking for some trendy threads for your twin tots you really must have a look at the selections available from Baby Rock Apparel.  They have several witty and rocking t-shirts for baby girls and baby boys, including a twins rock shirt.  

The sizes appear to go from 3 months up to 8T, so you can even pick up a shirt, hat, or hoodie for an older sibling while you are at it. 

We selected two different t-shirts for our twin boys.  I should mention that everyone in the family had a different favorite, so narrowing it down to two was not an easy feat.  However, we just love the ones we agreed on!

Since our little guys are not standing yet, they are a touch hard to read in my photo.  The one says "Lock up your daughters" and the other says "What happens in preschool, stays in preschool".  The "lock up your daughters" shirt is perfect for Twin A, who happens to be a flirty little dude.  Twin B seemed equally well suited in the other design.  While he's too young to cause too much of a stir yet, here is just something about that pensive little man that has me a tad worried.

Beyond the fact they are extremely cool looking, they get extra "stars" for being made in the USA of 100% rib cotton, combed for both softness and comfort.  Additionally, Baby Rock Apparel donates a portion of its profits to The Pediatric Cancer Foundation.  Rock on!

Baby Rock Apparel is offering a 15% discount for our readers.

[Promo Code:  TWINSMAKE5] 

Save $Money for fun stuffconsider store brand formula

I should start by saying, yes I know breast milk is best for babies and that I am highly impressed with any mommy who is able to strictly breastfeed her twins. Kudos!  However, I realize that some families do find themselves in need of some formula for their babies.  

If you do use formula or plan to, here's a twin savings tip for you:

As you know, formula can put a real pinch on your monthly budget when buying enough for twins.  Twin parents who choose to formula feed or supplement with some formula should consider buying a store brand instead of the Name brand variety.  

Of course your first question is, is name brand safe and good for my baby?  Through some web surfing, I discovered that every can of baby formula must adhere to strict FDA regulations. The Infant Formula Act requires that manufacturers follow specific procedures in manufacturing infant formulas.  In other words, whether you buy Isomil or the Soy Target brand, your baby is getting a product certified by the FDA as fine for your babies.  

Store brands can be $13 less a can, solely because of the lack of advertising expenses.  If you are solely formula feeding your twins for the first year, this savings can add up to $1,300.  Since this is such a considerable savings, it might be worth discussing with your pediatrician on your babies next visit.

My twins have been on Target's soy formula with Iron since they were about 3 months and are very happy healthy little boys.

Spit shine your little one withMomSpit?

MomSpit, I must admit, my 3 older children were completely afraid to let me test this product on them until I assured them there was no actual human saliva in it.  What else is not in it?  MomSpit is alcohol free as well.

Inspired by the original, it's made to clean those crusty, gooey, dirty moments that inevitably happen when you lack access to a sink.  You know how they always have something icky on them as you are entering a party or church?  

Instead of the slightly disgusting method of licking your fingers and rubbing it on your child's face to remove the grime, you can simply pull this out of your purse and squirt a little dab on those same fingers to rub it off.  Not only is this a more civilized option, but it is also a less germy one.

Once I explained all of this to my 3 oldest kids, they were singing the praises of MomSpit right along with me.  I currently have one in my diaper bag and another in the car.  MomSpit comes in an unscented variety as well as in a fig & green tea scent and a lemon & white tea scent.  The lemon & white tea scent is my personal favorite.

1/2 the cost makes buying for twins twice as nice

Today I thought I would tell you about a couple mommy & little one bargain sites worth checking out. Let's face it, buying a layette for twins is rough on the budget. Especially if you want a few cute little (or maybe not so little) "extras".  Save some money buying basics for your twins at these sites and then grab some of the chic baby gear we have reviewed for you on And Twins make 5!

First there is MamaBargains.com, every single item on this site is at least 50-80% off of normal retail prices. They offer a single hot deal at a time, sometimes in your choice of a couple different colors, patterns, or styles. Their site features a little shopping mama to indicate how close the deal is to selling out. New items appear after the last bargain sells out or after the last item exhausts it's pre determined (but unannounced) time limit to be featured on the site. This is my personal favorite. I've ordered from them 3 times so far and not been disappointed.

The second such site is BabySteals.com. BabySteals offers 1 deal a day at exactly 9am MST. Their deals are also around 50-80% off of retail. Once their steal of the day sells out, you have to wait until tomorrow for another one to appear.

Good luck finding bargains on all your twin gear!

Grocery Shopping with twins:KozyPal Shopping Cart Covers

I won't kid you, grocery shopping with twins is extremely difficult.  For the first 6-7 months you only have a couple options (when going without another adult or child old enough to push a cart).

1. Push a stroller and use one of those carry baskets as your only place to put anything.  
2. Push a stroller and pull a grocery cart.  Some people can manage this one, others can not.  I can not.
3. Put one baby in a baby carrier and 1 car seat carrier in the cart with the groceries. 

I'm pretty lucky, I was able to bring one of my older children or my husband with me most of the time.  Since the twins are almost 8 months now, my options are broadening a little bit.

Now that the twins are able to sit up in a cart, I realized I can sit both of them in one of those double style warehouse carts.  Of course media outlets keeping reminding us that shopping carts are laden with germs.  Ick!  

Clearly I needed a shopping cart cover before I attempted to hit the Cosco with the babies.  A quick google search on shopping cart covers led me straight to KozyPal Cart Covers.

The KozyPal seems to have it all.  It is handmade and offered in over 250 fabrics.  The universal design allows it to fit all grocery store shopping carts, Costco and Sam`s carts, park swings, public strollers in malls and zoos, and restaurant high chairs or booster seats.  

It comes in a single or double model.  The clear choice is a double for twins.  The double features two sets of leg holes, four toy loops so you can easily attach toys, pacifiers, or any item that your baby might throw onto the dirty store floor and two detachable safety belts which means you can avoid the dirty ones on the shopping cart itself.  It even has an attached little bag positioned at the handle bar for misc. items.

I found a cart in the parking lot near my car and put it on easily.  Placed both babies in it and off we went.  The cover seemed nicely padded and comfortable for my little guys.  Once we finished, it came off the car just as easy.  It was a double win.  I felt better knowing they could only bite the cover (and each other) and they felt more comfortable not sitting directly on the hard cart seat.

P.S.  Don't miss the the KozyPal $25.00 Gift Certificate giveaway!  Enter here.

Enter to win a $25 KozyPal Cart Covers Gift Certificate!

• To enter subscribe via email to my site:

• Want additional chances to win? You’ll get one extra entry for each of the following:

1. Visit KozyPal Cart Covers and subscribe to their newsletter.  

2. Blog about this giveaway and link back to the AndTwinsmake5 Blog

3. Follow us on Facebook

(Please be sure to leave a comment below this post telling me about each additional "entry").

• The deadline for entries is February 28th, 2009, 11:59pm CST.
• An eligible entry will be chosen as the winner by random.org. The winner will be notified via email on March 1st, 2009. The winner will have 3 days to accept or another entry will be chosen.
• Valid for US addresses only. Good luck!

THIS CONTEST IS NOW ENDED.

Finding the pot of goldin See Kai Run shoes

Top of the mornin' to you!  Pull out your green garb, lads and lassies, because St. Patrick's day is less than a month away.  I'll have you know we look like we are already preparing for it around our home.  

The twins appear to be gearing up for their first St. Patrick's Day with some new shoes.  Green colored shoes arrived for both boys recently from See Kai Run.  Once everyone takes a look at my little leprechauns wearing these adorable treads, it will be kisses galore.  Lucky them?

We were sent two different styles in the same color so we could maintain our individuality yet still compliment each other.  On the left is the Finn style and on the right is the Addison.  You can probably tell how

 nice they look from the pictures, but what you can't tell is that they are handcrafted from a butter-soft sheepskin leather.  You also can't tell from the photos that they have a soft suede sole with cute little non-slip rubber pads.  These soles are very flexible too, which is important for the little ones developing feet.  

Both of the boys seemed content wearing them, so they must comfortable.  The shoes seemed to fit fairly true to size too.  If you find you need sizing help, there is a nifty chart on their website.  My twins are 7 months and the 6-9 month size fit like a glove.  

Their shoes come in a wide variety of styles and colors, both of these are from their "smaller" line.  The new Spring styles have just arrived.  I see some darling sandals on the site, I may just have to pick up.

Also, it should be noted that See Kai Run even has their own facebook page.  How cool is that?

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* As a footnote, the play mat Twin B is sitting on (in his new See Kai Run shoes) is the Hearthsong play mat reviewed by us a few days ago.  The toy next to him is the mouse that comes included with the mat. 

Wet Bags by Monkey Foot Designs

I received a small sized wet bag in the mail last week from a hip online store by the name of Monkey Foot Designs.  The store features a few trendy fashion items for mother & child, and the wet bag appears to be one of their more popular items.  Don't miss the cute belts and purses while you are visiting though.

Back to my new wet bag ...  I must admit, I've never owned a wet bag before.  After utilizing this one for a few days, I can't figure out how I survived without one for this long.  I've finally figured out where I can put all those slimy bibs and damp burp cloths without ruining the rest of my diaper bag's contents.  It's uses don't stop there either.  You can also use it to place soiled cloth diapers, dirty clothes, or even a wet bathing suit.  It also doubles as a toiletries bag.

My love for the bag doesn't stop at just it's functional value.  This bag is made of a high quality decor fabric with many prints available and there is even an eco-friendly version available too.  The bag is lined with ProCare which is known for it's high duty waterproof & anti microbial factors.  Another real plus is the 11" snapping strap which enables me to attach it to my diaper bag or stroller.  Don't you just love clever people?

Twin tip of the day:  You might want to get the large or two of the smalls for your two little ones.

Tuesday Teasers

Just a quick note to give reader's the "inside scoop" on a few items that I will be reviewing soon.  Watch for my personal reviews of the following products:

• Shoes by Jack & Lily
• Baby Rock Apparel
• Several Etsy discoveries
• Apparel from DreamSacks
• Artwork from the Doodle Store
• and MomSpit

I could go on and on, but why spoil all the surprises, right?  

P.S.  Don't forget to add your email address to our subscriber list, I'd hate to think you might miss something (like some of the giveaways we have coming soon).

I realize shopping for twins can be difficult.  My goal is to help you quickly find the items you need and by reading the reviews decide if it is the right one for you and your twins.  Anxious to see a review on an item we haven't mentioned yet?  Leave us a comment below this post and we will see what we can do.

Keeping Clothes clean withBib-A-Roo by L'il Darlins, LLC

Five children, including twin 7 month old baby boys, makes for a lot of laundry needing to be done around my house.  I really don't have a love for doing it either.  I find it hard to believe anyone enjoys gathering it, sorting it, pre-treating it, washing it, drying it, folding it, lugging it all up two flights of stairs, and putting it away.  With that being said, I am all for any product that may cut down on getting additional clothes dirty.

When I think of the Bib-a-roo by lil' Darlins, I think of that old expression about "reinventing the wheel".  Luckily they didn't pay much attention to that phrase, because Lil' Darlins has essentially reinvented the bib.

The Bib-a-roo is a full body style reversible bib.  It looks like an ordinary bib with velcro at the neck, but it comes down to cover that always messy lap area.  It features elastic loops you place around your child's legs to keep it in place and a tie at the waist.

The bib-a-roo is available in around 17 different prints and it can be reversed to feature it's quilted backing.  We received two in a whimsical frog themed pattern.  The boys and I have been testing them out for the past few days.  I must say that it really does do a great job of keeping their clothes mess free.  This should be on your "essentials" list if you have a messy eater.

Lil' Darlins is currently featuring a 50% off economic stimulus sale on virtually all their products, so be sure to go check them out soon.

Hearthsong's Baby Play Mat and Rattle Mouse

We have wood floors in several rooms of our home, so soft cushy baby play mats are "must have" items for our twins.  Since the twins are frequently at play in my office, a playmat that looked good was equally important for mom.

Hearthsong's Baby Play Mat and Rattle Mouse was the perfect match for all of us.  It arrived rolled up in a a vinyl carry bag with soft velour handles.  

Once opened, we discovered it was not only adorable but incredibly soft and padded.  It features a non skid back, which is a much appreciated feature with our sometimes slippery hard floors.  We were happily surprised to discover that the subtle appliqued flower detailing hides squeakers inside.  The mat also features a mouse design which has crinkling ears, a squeaky belly, and a rattling tail. Additionally, the play mat also comes with a plush rattle mouse friend for your little ones.  

My twin boys are very fond of the mat and the rattle mouse.  Twin B is one of those babies that just has to rub his sweet face on all the soft things around him.  He is also the bigger, less stable sitting twin, so the mat has helped break a fall or two for our chubby little honey.  

At 30" x 44", it is big enough for two babies to sit or lie on it, but small enough that it isn't taking up the entire room.  You may want to consider getting two, if you want to cover an even larger portion of your hard floor.  

The twins give this mat by Hearthsong a 5 binky rating.  I'm very please with it as well.  

Petite PalateOrganic Gourmet Baby Food

Highchairs for Two?  Serve up a Gourmet feast for your twins on Valentine's Day.

Shortly after the twins began eating solid foods, we were sent some samples of baby food by Petite Palate.  Petite Palate states their philosophy to be the following:

"Petite Palate is dedicated to providing fresh, organic, superior tasting meals for infants and toddlers that are packed full of wholesome nutrients."

I'd been hearing the benefits of feeding babies organically for quite a while now, so I was thrilled with this new find.  Petite Palate also believes in helping your little ones develop a sophisticated palate early on.  They state,

"Petite Palate knows that infants are born with taste buds that need to be nurtured from the very first taste of solid food. We believe in the French tradition of small meals with big flavor. This leads to a positive relationship with food (as opposed to large portions of bland foods typically served). If presented as early as possible, children will grow up with better eating habits, reducing the incidence of child obesity and a number of health problems. Petite Palate also believes that with a highly developed palate, older children will choose nutritious foods over fried and processed ones; setting healthy habits for their entire lives."

The package we were sent contained Petite Palate's flash frozen baby food in individual (BPA free) paper cups for easy reheating.  The sampling included an Apple Pear Puree with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla.  There was also a Lentil Stew, a Puree of Yams and a Spinach Potato Puree. The twins' favorites were the Puree of Yams and the Apple Pear Puree.  The yams smelled so good that I have to admit I had to try a little dab of it myself.  Yum!

Don't worry about it going bad quickly.  Their baby food is good for up to a year in your freezer. 

Additionally, Lisa from Petite Palate tells me that Amazon.com is on promotion starting tomorrow, February 15th.  If you buy a case, you get a free sample pack.  

You can also purchase the food directly from Petite Palate's web site.  They have offered a special promotion code for our readers [TWINBLOG], which will give you $10.00 off an order of $30.00 or more.

Bon Appetite & Happy Valentine's Day to all the Twin Babies & Toddlers!

$5.00 Off at Fierce Hugs

Hani from Fierce Hugs asked me to pass along this special coupon to our readers.  It should me noted that Fierce Hugs supports independent artists for original works of art on their organic clothing.

Promotion Code:  [TWINS3]

The Car Seat Poncho

The twins are getting bigger each day.  As they grow new challenges keep popping up.  My latest challenge?  How do I keep them warm in the car?

I recently moved my twins from carrier style car seats to convertible car seats.  It was getting too heavy for me to carry two babies in those seats.  The twins had used little covers to keep them warm in the carriers.  However, those are not an option with a convertible style seat. 

News reports I had watched said placing a coat on my babies while in their car seats was a big "no no".

Here is a quote from NHTSA, "...to keep your baby the safest, always remove bulky clothing or blankets before you place the child in the seat. Then, put the blanket or coat over the baby. You should never place anything thick underneath the baby, unless that item came with the car seat originally - which tells you it's been tested by the manufacturer. When a child is wearing a thick coat, it's hard to tell if you have a good harness fit, which is crucial. A coat can add a lot of slack, reducing the level of protection for your child in a crash."

A blanket alone was just not an option in the cold Chicago winters we experience here, so off to the internet to find a safe solution to keep them warm.

What did I find?  The Car Seat Poncho.  My 10 year old son thinks the Car Seat Ponchos look a bit like Wizard Cloaks on the twins, and I have to agree that they do seem conjure up a bit of magic.

I was dazzled by how easy they were to use.  You just unzip the poncho, drape it around your little one, and re-zip.  Once you are in the car, you set your baby down in the seat flipping the back of the poncho up so they aren't sitting on it.  You then fasten the buckles around your little one by either lifting up the poncho or utilizing the double zipper.  Repeat with the second twin.  Presto Chango!  You are in the car driving away.

The ponchos look really adorable on the babies.  Mine are a baby blue camo print trimmed in white, which I just love.  If you are anything like me, you are probably wondering if they warm enough.  They are made of 2 layers of 400 weight fleece.  The website points out that that is like placing 2 blankets on your baby.  They should be plenty warm.  Also, it should be noted that they washed up well and are designed to fit for a long time.  The size small fits from 0-24 months. 

You can conjure up a couple Car Seat Poncho's at their website.  They even have some double deals for those of us who need 2.

Attention Twin Mommies & Daddies:Sample Sale at 7 A.M. Enfant

Tivoli Couture Stroller Liners

I have twin babies and two posh strollers to wheel the little dudes around.  One of my twin strollers is a double side by side style by Valco called the Valco Twin Trimode stroller.  My other twin stroller is a tandem 3 wheel model by Jane called the Jane Powertwin stroller.  I just purchased my Jane stroller on Craigslist.  I've only used it a few times, but I am really fond of it thus far.  I plan to review my Jane Power Twin soon, so check back for that review.

So now that I have invested in two twin strollers, I decided I better protect them.  This decision had nothing to do with the fact that stroller liners would make the strollers and I look even more posh, or so I assured my husband.

I did a bit of web shopping and stumbled upon Tivoli Couture with their assortment of luxury stroller liners and other chic baby items.  It seems they gifted Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's twins some adorable liners, so surely they were nice enough for mine right?

Absolutely!  They have several trendy fabrics.  I choose a black damask fabric with a cuddly minky fabric on the reverse side.  I'm a huge fan of all things black & white.  Once they arrived, I quickly grabbed my new Jane Stroller out of the car and installed the liners.  This took mere minutes and they fit the stroller like a glove.  I just love the little bits of elastic that help keep the top from flopping about.  Genius! 

 

My friend, who sews was quite impressed by them as well.  They truly are well made, look sensational, and are functional as well.  Thanks to my Tivoli Couture stroller pads, my designated shopping stroller is now protected from twin baby spills, leaks, and whatever else might come its way.

I like them so much, I'm thinking I need some for my Valco stroller.  (Purely for it's own protection of course!)  Who has time for fashion when they have twin infants and 3 other kids anyway?

Tivoli Couture is offering our readers a 15% discount at their online store.  The Promotion code is [TWINS].  Thanks Tivoli!

Decorating your nursery for Twins

Decorating a twin nursery can be a tad trickier than decorating for a single baby.  Space becomes a bigger issue when you are suddenly trying to find room for two cribs, two dressers, two chairs, and two children who will want space to grow and play.

Here's a few things I did that might help you when making a plan for your own twins space:

First, try to position the cribs so that they won't take up too much of the square footage.  This floor space will be prime real estate for your child to crawl around on as they grow.  As cute as it may look to center the cribs under a window sticking out into the room, you may discover that configuration takes up a lot more space.  We placed our cribs in two of the 4 corners of the room, flanking a large window.  Incidentally, we picked a tiny sofa for the room over a rocker and ottoman because it provides a better spot for story time and for feeding when you have two little ones joining you.

The second most important thing to consider is the storage space.  Twin babies means double the stuff.  Double the toys, the clothes, the blankets; you get the picture.  If you maximize the storage in your nursery's closet, you may be able to eliminate the need for big bulky dressers in the actual room.  Again, this will give your children more space to move as they grow.  In our nursery, we removed the doors from our closet and installed a drawer system

 made by Ikea. We chose drawers over shelves, because kids can to quickly make a mess of clothes stacked on shelves.  The drawers hide little shirts that may have come unfolded in your little one's quest for his or hers favorite Tshirt.  We left a minimal amount of hanging room because this is a boy's nursery and they tend to have very few hanging items.  You may want to allow for more hanging space with little girls though.

There were three other priority items for our nursery.  Lighting, a place to change the babies, and a place for babies to be able to store toys. 

In regards to lighting, we went with an overhead light on a dimmer for the main light.  However, we added two floor lamps for secondary light sources. This allows us to keep the overhead light off or very dim at night.  The floor lamp in the changing area can be turned on at night without waking the other baby, and the lamp by the sofa could be turned on to feed one baby while the other sleeps.

The changing station was set up just like one would be for a singleton, however since we knew it would get double the traffic we went with an antimicrobial easily cleaned surface instead of 

something made of fabric.

The toy storage was something we kept low, so that a toddler could easily access.  We added baskets to keep it organized.

Last but not least comes the fun part, finding all the cute bedding, picking the paint colors, and picking out all the other adorable items to fill the room with until the babies arrive.  

Have Fun!  I know I did.

Two times the mess? Not with My Plate-Mate

I can't tell you how many times a day someone passes the twins and I in the store and says, "Wow, Twins!  You have your hands full!"  As if I didn't already realize this?  I wonder what the would say if they knew I had 3 other children I'm about to pick up from school?  Needless to say, they are right though.  I do have my hands full.  I have two little babies to bathe, two to change, and two to feed.  

Soon enough they'll be taking over the feeding part.  Less work right?  Typically it's just the opposite, more mess for me and more frustrated moments for the little guys.  However, I've been introduced to a product called My Plate-Mate that serves double duty.  It reduces the mess made for mom or dad and it cuts down on the difficulty for your little twins.

My Plate-Mate is a clever spill guard that fits around any 8" - 9 1/2" plate, preventing messy spills and promoting self-feeding success.  The curved rim catches runaway spoonfuls and guides food in to the utensil every time.  You can use it at home, restaurants, or even grandma's house.  And as if that isn't enough, it is made in the USA, free of lead, BPA, and phthalates.  I should also mention it's available in 3 colors, white, blue, and pink.

My Plate-Mate is offering our readers a discount, use [Promo Code:  MESSFREE] for 10% off your online orders.

Personalized Items from SugarLocks.com

I've found it is extremely helpful to parents of twinfants to have items personalized.  Whether your twins are identical or fraternal, it can be difficult for family & friends to easily tell which baby is which.  Having a monogrammed onsie for a family outing can be the perfect "hint" Great Aunt Julie needs to easily tell your twin babies apart.  Personalization becomes even more important as your baby twins become toddler twins.  Having your little one's favorite blankie embroidered with his or hers monogram can solve a few "mine" moments.

SugarLocks specializes in unique gifts for the adorned child.  The owner, Jen Cantu, has made a wide array of items available for personalization via her store.  The twins each received the onsie & blankie set pictured.  They instantly loved the softness of the blankie and I loved that it was monogrammed.  It washed up well too.  The onsie is adorable and really does make life a tad easier each time they wear them.  While my little guys aren't identical, friends do have to double check who is who.  Jen was also sweet enough to give us a little "two peas in a pod" tote, which we have put to good use as a toy bag.  Too cute!

SugarLocks is currently offering a special discount for our readers.  You will receive a 22% discount with the promo code: (offer now expired). 

More great items are on the way from SugarLock for review so stay tuned.