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Early years

22nd Apr 2019

‘Double trouble…’ 7 things strangers will say to you when you’re a mum of twins

Yes, our hands are indeed very full.

Gillian Fitzpatrick

You wouldn’t have it any other way: you’re a mum of twins.

Sure, it’s madness at times (not to mention pretty expensive) but the joy of seeing your little ones grow-up together is invaluable.

Twins also attract plenty of attention – not least when they’re still small and oh-so cute.

Indeed, perfect strangers are often completely shameless when it comes to passing all sorts of remarks on your bundles of joy. Of course, it’s lovely to have your babies adored while out-n-about… but sometimes you’re also tried and cranky and not in the mood.

With that in mind, here are seven common things to watch out for:

1) Are they twins?

You could have them dressed identically at aged two weeks; have them sitting in their double buggy side-by-side; have them wearing ‘we’re twins’ babygros… and people will still ask the same question: “Are they twins?”

2) You’ve got your hands full

Correct – yes I do. Literally. My hands are full of children because I have two hands and two children.

3) Did you have IVF?

Umm, probably none of your business.

4) Did you have a c-section?

See above.

4) Oh double-trouble, so!

You prefer to think of it as twice the fun and double the love (twin hugs are just the best).

5) Which one is older?

You’re more than likely talking a matter of minutes here in terms of discrepancy in age, so does it really matter? Probably not…

6) Do twins run in your family?

We’ve actually come to the conclusion that the whole ‘twins run in families’ thing is nonsense.

7) Can you tell them apart?

I’m their mother… I should hope so (even though at times you can’t).