7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Having Twins

Jennifer Chen
Jun 01, 2016

Back when I found out I was pregnant with twin girls, I read twin parenting books, asked adult twins what life was like for them (did they hate matchy matchy outfits?), went to an Expecting Twins prenatal and spent weeks trying to find the perfect baby names for twins. But nothing really prepared me for the reality of babies times two. While my husband was stoked to someday dress our girls as The Shiningtwins for Halloween, we were blissfully unaware of how much our lives were going to radically and wonderfully change 180 degrees.

To answer the questions that many people ask me ALWAYS: 1) Twins don’t run in our family; 2) My pregnancy was “all-natural,” as if IVF treatments aren’t also a natural way to conceive a baby; 3) They are fraternal; 4) Yes, it’s hard work, but as first-time parents, my husband and I don’t know anything different.

For any expectant parents who are having multiples, here are seven things I wish I knew beforehand.

1. Sleep when they sleep. EVERYONE tells you this. I can’t tell you how many Facebook comments I got about “sleep when they sleep.” It was crazy annoying. But with two newborns, sometimes one is awake while the other is zonked out. During the rare unicorn moment that they both fall asleep at the same time, I sneak in a nap whenever I can. The struggle with sleep deprivation is real. And it’s not fun.

2. Write *everything* down. We installed a dry erase board in our nursery and it is the only reason we remember anything. We write down when the girls ate, how many times they did tummy time and when we gave them a bath last. When you’re *super* sleep deprived (see #1), you can’t remember what happened 10 minutes ago, let alone when your twins last ate. There are fancy parent apps to track feedings, but honestly, a simple dry-erase board is way easier to look at in the middle of the night when you can’t remember your own name.

3. Color code or label bottles. This was the best tip from my Expecting Twins class. Buy bottles in two different colors. Some bottles come with color bands. Designate baby A as one color and baby B as another. Twins are totally different people so they will eat differently. One might gulp down an entire bottle while the other might leave half. You’ll want to know how much your little ones are eating, and if the bottles are identical, you won’t have a clue.

4. A stay in the NICU is actually okay. NICU stands for neonatal intensive care unit where preemie babies go after birth if they are having health issues. Before their birth, I constantly worried about my girls ending up in the NICU. It seemed so scary to have your babies hooked up to machines and monitored 24/7. But, in reality, when my girls were transported to the NICU soon after they were born, it was the best place for them. The NICU nurses took excellent care of them. I was able to rest. My husband and I learned so much from the NICU nurses (who are amazing, kind, wonderful peeps). It was basically baby boot camp. Our girls were discharged 11 days later and they are healthy and growing.

5. Breastfeeding two babies = patience. Before birth, I had this idyllic vision that I would easily latch my girls onto my breasts and feed them exclusively at the breast. The reality was that they needed formula while I pumped eight times a day and tried to get them to latch. I don’t love giving them formula, but I also had to realize that breastfeeding is a relationship between each of my girls. While one is a fast eater, the other takes her time and can get fussy if the milk isn’t there right away. I only learned that by being patient with the process and learning their separate, distinct personalities was I able to get comfortable breastfeeding them.

6. Baby wearing is a life saver. We had some baby carriers at home, but one of the best things I ever bought is my Solly Baby Wrap ($65). When either of my girls is especially cranky, I wear her, bounce her around and give her kisses. Within minutes, she’s nodding off. Research different types of baby carriers and buy two different kinds. My husband loves the Ergo Baby Carrier ($115+). Plus, it gives you hands-free freedom!

7. Join mom groups for twins. Some of the best tips I’ve ever gotten are from other twin moms. Google “moms of multiples” with your city and find a Facebook group or IRL group to join. It’s so helpful to talk to other parents who have been there, done that and survived. You need the advice that singleton parents won’t ever have to deal with, like how to bottle feed two babies at the same time (hint: Prop them up with two breastfeeding pillows and hold both bottles).

Are you a parent of twins? Tweet us your best tips @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

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11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore

When you're in between episodes of your favorite January TV shows, then there's nothing better than watching new January movies. (Also, I can't believe it's almost a new year already!! Where did the time go?!). Whether you're a tried-and-true movie theater goer, or you love nothing more than a movie night from the comfort of your own couch, these rom-coms, action movies, and horror flicks coming in 2025 are exactly what you need to add to your New Year's Resolutions.

Here are all the new January movies you can watch in 2025.

1. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl — On Netflix January 3, 2025

Netflix

Wallace and Gromit are back! Thank goodness, because there's no other way I would want to start a brand new year. This January movie sees Wallace's new "smart" gnome become way too smart — and a dangerous certain someone might be behind everything. Now Gromit has to battle the most sinister of forces to save the day.

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl premieres January 3 and stars Ben Whitehead, Peter Kay, Lauren Patel, Reece Shearsmith, Diane Morgan, Adjoa Andoh, Muzz Khan, and Lenny Henry.

2. Better Man — In Theaters January 10, 2025

Paramount Pictures

This new movie is based on the true story of British popstar Robbie Williams. While examining his rise to fame and his time with boyband Take That, the movie also dives into the highs and lows of fame...all while presenting as a monkey. I'm going to be honest, this movie really confuses me. It's definitely a creative and unique concept, which I've been craving more of, but I'll have to see this movie before I can figure out how I feel!

Better Man premieres January 10 and stars Robbie Williams, Jonno Davies, Steve Pemberton, Damon Herriman, Raechelle Banno, Alison Steadman, Kate Mulvaney, Frazer Hadfield, Tom Budge, and Anthony Hayes.

3. The Last Showgirl — In Theaters January 10, 2025

Roadside Attractions

Pamela Anderson stars as Shelly, a showgirl who has to figure out what the rest of her life looks like when her show suddenly closes after 30 years. With an incredible cast, a award-worthy performance from Pamela, and music by Miley Cyrus, this is one January movie I literally can't stop thinking about.

The Last Showgirl premieres January 10 and stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka, and Billie Lourd.

4. Wolf Man — In Theaters January 17, 2025

Nicola Dove/Universal Pictures

Scary movie fans rejoice! Wolf Man is exactly the kind of movie that'll send shivers down your spine, unrelated to the winter weather. When Blake (Christopher Abbott), Charlotte (Julia Garner), and their daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) come across a dangerous and mysterious animal, they barricade themselves inside a farmhouse to stay safe. Unfortunately, Blake begins a strange transformation of his own — and puts Charlotte and Ginger in a whole new kind of danger.

Wolf Man premieres January 17 and stars Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner and Sam Jaeger, Matilda Firth, Benedict Hardie, Ben Prendergast, Zac Chandler, Beatriz Romilly, and Milo Cawthorne.

5. Paddington in Peru — In Theaters January 17, 2025

Peter Mountain/StudioCanal/Sony Pictures

If you're already dreaming about a summer vacation, you're not alone — even Paddington Bear is headed somewhere warm! In Paddington in Peru, our favorite cuddly teddy is on a quest to find Aunt Lucy...and brings the whole family along for the ride.

Paddington in Peru premieres January 17 and stars Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, Carla Tous, Ben Whishaw, Olivia Colman, and Madeleine Harris.

6. One of Them Days — In Theaters January 24, 2025

Sony Pictures

Keke Palmer and SZA are reviving the BFF comedy in 2025 and I am MORE THAN READY. When Dreux and Alyssa learn Alyssa's BF has spent their rent money, they have to go on a totally unexpected adventure to keep themselves from getting evicted.

One of Them Days premieres January 24 and stars Keke Palmer, SZA, Maude Apatow, and Janelle James.

7. Flight Risk — In Theaters January 24, 2025

Lionsgate

In this new January movie, Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery stars as a U.S. Marshall who must bring a witness to court and deal with the fact the pilot's really a hitman. (I can't help but wonder what Lady Mary would do in this scenario).

Flight Risk premieres January 24 and stars Michelle Dockery, Mark Walberg, and Topher Grace.

8. Inheritance — In Theaters January 24, 2025

IFC Films

Maya's life turns upside down when she learns her father used to be a spy...and then finds herself in the middle of an international conspiracy. No big deal!! Now Maya must evade dangerous hunters and stay alive long enough to find the answers to her questions.

Inheritance premieres January 24 and stars Phoebe Dynevor and Rhys Ifans.

9. You're Cordially Invited — On Prime Video January 30, 2025

Prime Video

Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell are starting 2025 with a bang! This hilarious R-rated rom-com follows Reese's character as she plans her sister's destination wedding...then realizes the venue has double booked them with Will Ferrell, a father who's determined that his daughter's (Geraldine Viswanathan) wedding go perfectly. When I say chaos ensues, I'm talking alligator wrestling, a zebra knocking over the cake, and strippers.

You're Cordially Invited premieres January 30 and stars Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Geraldine Viswanathan, Meredith Hagner, Jimmy Tatro, Stony Blyden, Leanne Morgan, Rory Scovel, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Ramona Young, Jack McBrayer, and Celia Weston.

10. Valiant One — In Theaters January 31, 2025

Briarcliff Entertainment

When a captain and his unit get trapped behind enemy lines — and their equipment goes out — they have to band together and figure out how to get to safety. This January movie has some familiar faces like Chase Stokes and Lana Condor, and it'll keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Valiant One premieres January 31 and stars Chase Stokes, Lana Condor, Desmin Borges, Callan Mulvey, Jonathan Whitesell, and Daniel Jun.

11. Mickey 17 — In Theaters January 31, 2025

Warner Bros. Pictures

Mickey Barnes goes on countless life-ending missions after he signs up to be an Expendable. On his quest to colonize the ice world of Niflheim, he's cloned countless times — but, shockingly, nothing really goes wrong until two Mickeys wind up surviving at the same time.

Mickey 17 premieres January 31 and stars Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.

Don't forget to watch this year's best New December Movies and New December TV Shows before you ring in the new year!

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Uh Oh, Stanley Just Recalled Millions Of Cups For This Dangerous Reason

Stanley 1913, the creator of the famed Stanley tumblers you know and love, just recalled millions of cups due to multiple reports of… burn injuries?!

Here’s what to know about the current Stanley cup recall.

Consumer Product Safety Commission

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC), the Stanley recall covers all Switchback and Trigger Action travel mugs. These travel mugs pose a “burn hazard” to sippers who have them since the mugs’ lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing the lid to detach during use.

Stanley 1913

Stanley received 91 reports from consumers facing this issue, with 38 burn injuries worldwide. A total of 11 consumers required medical attention from the flaw. The CSPC estimates that about 2.6 million mugs are part of the massive recall.

These are the exact recalled products:

  • Switchback 12-ounce mug, product identification number 20-01437
  • Switchback 16-ounce mug, product identification numbers 20-01436, 20-02211
  • Trigger Action 12-ounce mug, product identification numbers 20-02033, 20-02779, 20-02825
  • Trigger Action 16-ounce mug, product identification numbers 20-02030, 20-02745, 20-02957
  • Trigger Action 20-ounce mug, product identification numbers 20-02034, 20-02746
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Stanley 1913 (@stanley_brand)

“We ask that all customers in possession of either product immediately stop use and reach out to Stanley 1913 for a free replacement lid,” a recent Instagram post from Stanley 1913 reads. “At Stanley 1913, we are committed to constant improvement and are focused on creating quality products that are built for life.”

Stanley 1913

If you believe you own any of the recalled products, you can visit www.stanley1913tmrecall.expertinquiry.com/ for a free replacement lid by verifying your mug’s product identification number and place of purchase.

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42 Affordable Gifts That Feel Like Splurges

The holidays are great, but they can be pretty taxing on bank accounts. We all want to buy gifts for our friends and families that feel like we went out but don't break the budget. We've worked hard to dig through Amazon and find the hottest gifts of the year that feel like a splurge but are wallet-friendly. No matter who you want to impress with your gifts, we've got what you need. From gadgets to purses to trending kitchen buys, you'll find just what you need to finish your holiday shopping.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Purse Gives a Designer Feel Without a Designer Price

Amazon

Accessories don't have to be a huge, expensive gift. Made from premium vegan leather, this purse brings the style to any outfit, whether they lean more towards casual or upscale.

See it on Amazon

This Hydrating Cuticle Oil Is a Fan Favorite

Amazon

Reviewers rave about the restorative effects of this Cuccio Naturale Revitalizing-Hydrating Oil for Repaired Cuticles. This overnight moisturizing treatment repairs damaged cuticles, leaving them soft, smooth, and healthy.

See it on Amazon

This Winter Scarf Looks Like a Million Bucks

Amazon

They'll reach for this thick scarf on a daily basis. The gorgeous, elegant layer keeps them cozy and stylish whether they pair it with a formal outfit or their favorite tee and jeans combo.

See it on Amazon

A Rainfall Showerhead With Incredible Water Pressure

Amazon

Your giftee can swap out their old showerhead for this rainfall showerhead in just minutes. It's easy to install yourself and provides increased water pressure and a filtered system that's better for your hair and skin.

See it on Amazon

This Set of Bags Keeps Everything Organized

Amazon

Give them the gift of organization with these bags. The set offers two bags that look luxurious and pricey, giving them the perfect place to pack up those smaller necessities and keep them organized.

See it on Amazon

These Earrings Look Like a Luxury Piece

Amazon

Even when it comes to jewelry, you can spend far less and get far more than you think. These heart earrings are a dangling dream, making it look like you spent way too much on their gift.

See it on Amazon

This JBL Speaker Is Made for Adventures

Amazon

This awesome Bluetooth speaker is prepped and ready to go anywhere. The water- and dustproof body and the five hours of playtime make it a great gift for the music lover in your life.

See it on Amazon

These Cocktail Mixers Make Things Simple

Amazon

Gift them these mixers along with a gorgeous set of glasses and you've got a great, upscale gift. The variety pack offers tons of skinny, non-alcoholic flavors they can enjoy on their own or with their favorite liquor.

See it on Amazon

This Teddy Fleece Is So Luxurious

Amazon

Gift them this jacket and give them years of a luxurious look they can style with all their wardrobe favorites. The affordable buy looks like it stepped right off a J.Crew runway!

See it on Amazon

This Mask Is Like a Salon Treatment

Amazon

This awesome Amika hair mask is deeply nourishing and hydrating, helping to restore and heal your hair with every use. Gifting this is like gifting a much more affordable trip to the salon.

See it on Amazon

These Sea Salt Flakes Make Every Meal a Splurge

Amazon

If you've got a chef on your list, amateur or pro, this box of Maldon sea salt flakes is a must-have. The flakes are delicious and rich, adding so much flavor to every meal they make.

See it on Amazon

Elevate Any Look With These Earrings

Amazon

These chunky earrings are 14k gold-filled, hypoallergenic, and beautifully huggie. The set is a thoughtful, affordable option for the friend in your life who likes a little luxurious sparkle.

See it on Amazon

These Cozy Slippers Feel So Bougie

Amazon

These slippers are so soft and warm and look like the sort of slippers you'd pay an entire paycheck to buy. The Amazon Essentials are an affordable way to share a little luxury with friends.

See it on Amazon

These Socks Are the Ultimate Purchase

Amazon

It might seem like a lot of money for socks, but if you have a hiker in your life, they'll be thrilled to get nothing but this pair. The socks last for years, are comfortable, and provide plenty of cushion.

See it on Amazon

This Sol de Janeiro Set Makes the Brand Affordable

Amazon

If you want to gift a pricier product without hurting your bank account, this set of top sellers is a must. Featuring body wash, body butter, and perfume, this set screams "splurge" for a steal.

See it on Amazon

This Packing Cube Set Is So Glamorous

Amazon

The traveler on your list is going to fall in love with this set of packing cubes. These Baggu bags don't just organize and store all their essentials; they also add plenty of style to their luggage.

See it on Amazon

This Wallet Is Perfectly Coquette

Amazon

The Coquette Girly in your life is going to love this elegant wallet. With a bright gold bow taking center stage and plenty of storage space inside, this wallet looks so luxurious.

See it on Amazon

Give Them a Good Grip With This Paddle

Amazon

Featuring a cushioned, anti-slip grip, this pickleball paddle is a must-have for newbies and pros alike. The carbon fiber material means they'll be able to use this paddle for years of use.

See it on Amazon

This Initial Necklace Is Beautifully Dainty

Amazon

Jewelry is an easy gift, but it's also easy to mess up. This gorgeous, dainty necklace comes at an affordable price and is a great buy for the friend in your life who appreciates a personal touch.

See it on Amazon

This Puzzle Is the Height of Luxury

Amazon

Jonathan Adler is one of the most luxurious brands out there, but this puzzle isn't the splurge it seems. Your style-forward friend is going to love putting together and displaying this piece.

See it on Amazon

A Coffee Table Book Always Looks Fancy

Amazon

Not only does a coffee table book feel like a splurge purchase it also instantly elevates any space it's added to. The Art Book is a beautiful piece that's going to take center stage in the recipient's home.

See it on Amazon

These Glasses Steal the Show

Amazon

Gift them a beautiful tablescape when you give them these crystal glasses. The gorgeous, rich, jewel-toned cups instantly take center stage in anyone's home, no matter their personal style.

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Give the Gift of Style With These Nails

Amazon

Gift them these Glamnetic nails and they'll have nails not just for weeks, but years. The reusable press-ons are built to last and come in a gorgeous array of colors, patterns, and shapes.

See it on Amazon

This Fishwife Set Is All the Rage

Amazon

The internet is obsessed with Fishwife and all the delicious flavors of tinned fish they have. Give your bestie the gift of delicious flavors and all sorts of cool points when they have visitors over.

See it on Amazon

This Purse Has Plenty of Storage and No Shortage of Style

Amazon

This Amazon Essentials purse looks a lot like some of the fancier, name-brand purses, but it comes in at half the price. Choose from four classic colors and give them something they'll use daily.

See it on Amazon

Elevate Entertaining With These Tapers

Amazon

These stunning tapers steal the show. If you have someone on your list who loves entertaining, they'll love these unscented, long-lasting candles in any color you choose.

See it on Amazon

This Might Be the Ultimate Gym Bag

Amazon

The gym rat in your life is going to love this gorgeous duffle bag. The lightweight bag has a shoe compartment, a pocket for water bottles, and a strap for securing a yoga mat for easy carrying.

See it on Amazon

This Loungewewar Set Feels So Luxurious

Amazon

It might seem like you're splurging on this loungewear set, but it's so affordable! Gift them shorts, a top, and a cozy robe. The waffle-knit fabric is comfortable, breathable, and so trendy.

See it on Amazon

This Brush Is Worth Every Penny

Amazon

It might seem a little pricey, but this Drybar brush is truly worth every penny. This brush can stand out as a gift all on its own, offering easy detangling and silky smooth locks with every use.

See it on Amazon

This Soft Purse Goes With Everything

Amazon

This soft purse matches pretty much any style. Something about the texture and silhouette makes it a classic that won't ever go out of style. Choose from a handful of stunning, exciting colors.

See it on Amazon

This Bowl Dresses Up Their Petware

Amazon

If you love someone who has a pet, you already know how much they'll love this Jonathan Adler bowl. The removable no-skid cover helps minimize messes and spills while the pattern brings the style.

See it on Amazon

This Salad Bowl Instantly Elevates Dinnertime

Amazon

Whether they love to entertain and host or they just love sit-down meals, this glass salad bowl with the included tongs makes such a gorgeous statement piece on their dinner table.

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This Dumpling Kit Brings the Restaurant to Their Kitchen

Amazon

No need to go out and buy pricey dumplings anymore. This kit gives them not only the chance to make those tasty treats in their home but also to try their hand at a brand new recipe.

See it on Amazon

This Cast Iron Skillet Looks Extra Fancy

Amazon

It might look like the fancier name brands, but this cast iron skillet is so much more affordable than that. The cream color really sells the idea that it's far more expensive than it really is.

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This Hand Cream Smells Divine

Amazon

The Salt & Stone hand cream feels like an incredibly expensive purchase that you could find at a spa. The cream repairs dry, cracked skin and gives hands the nourishment they need.

See it on Amazon

This Seashell Necklace Is Dreamy

Amazon

If you want to gift them something that feels like a seaside luxury, this necklace is perfect. The shell-shaped pendant, coupled with the gorgeous pearls across the face, makes it look so luxurious.

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Prepare Smooth, Delicious Espresso With This Tool

Amazon

With this gorgeous espresso pot, they can prepare it the old-fashioned way. This stovetop maker might look pricey, but it comes in under $20 and is a perfect gift alone or paired with some espresso beans.

See it on Amazon

This Candle Is an Internet Sensation

Amazon

The La Jolie Muse candle has been on gift list after gift list this year. This luxury candle makes a stunning gift for anyone on your list, adding not only a beautiful scent to their home but elegant style.

See it on Amazon

These Slippers Are Cozy and Cute

Amazon

Keep their feet toasty and warm for years with these slippers. The sherpa look, coupled with the lightweight, barefoot-style soles, makes them comfortable to be in all throughout the day.

See it on Amazon

This Glass Skin Set Is a Fabulous Find

Amazon

Your skincare-loving bestie is going to love this COSRX set. The products are made for daily use, gifting them radiant, glowing skin that feels nourished, hydrated, and fresh.

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This Delicious Variety Pack Is So Tasty

Amazon

This Tony's Chocolonely bundle is such a sweet gift for the candy lover in your world. The chocolate is cruelty-free, made with plant-based ingredients, and chock full of flavor.

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Complement Those Meals With This Olive Oil

Amazon

The internet is obsessed with this oil! This delicious extra virgin olive oil is always fresh and never blended, offering a bold, even taste that adds the finishing touches to their favorite meals.

See it on Amazon