5 Friday Finds!!!!! Nice as Twice!!

Let’s face it – having twins takes some effort. Whether that is making sure both are going in the same direction and not the opposite or ensuring you have double the food or just giving up your food all together. It could be when complete strangers are chasing after you to inform you that you have your hands full, it is easy to lose sight of the true joy that comes along with being a parent of twins. Even though most of us know deep down how lucky we are and that we wouldn’t change it for the world, sometimes you need a little reminder of how twice is nice They may come with electric excitement, robust giggles, and constant chatter but they have great hearts, are huge helpers at home, and are very self-sufficient at a young age, which is beautiful. Someone mentioned to me the other day “they sure are not shy, wow.” Yes, to some existent, but they were just comfortable with the person who mentioned their unabashed excitement for being in their presence. That had me thinking that when you spend time with these spectacular twins you become a better person.  It is heartwarming and entertaining to watch twins interact with one another. Twins make it necessary for parents to work as a team – one of the best benefits of having twins has lead to your mom and I strengthening our marriage bond. It has been fascinating watching our twins grow in adoration for one another, church, sports, their teachers at school, and most of all getting a sparkle in their eyes for moments and experiences with loved ones. How cool is it that twin 6-year-olds set out their clothes the night before, get themselves up in the morning and get ready for school? Do most 6 year old kids ask to get up and go to the fitness center at 630am when staying in a hotel? This is not to boast, it is a self-reminder that it can be daunting when you have twins who seem to be in constant play mode because the off switch does not exist when two brothers are competing for the macho title regularly. However, when you take time to spend with each kid, especially separately, you get to see the different traits and joys they possess. When apart you will not experience a more well-behaved kid than either one of them. When together they are still supremely polite, helpful, and enjoyable. It just takes a bit more effort to smooth out. The twins already take the trash out, pick sticks so we can mow the lawn, clean-up the dog stink-mines in the backyard, help fold their own clothes, and help mom put away dishes from the dishwasher. At times I over worry about their behavior or demeanor and forgot how truly amazing it is to be in their presence regardless if they are not perfect or take some correcting or forgiveness if they accidently hit a nerve. Twins are twice as nice, but also twice as complex and interesting, which is the most enjoyable part of being their father. The coolest thing about raising my sons is that neither of them need gifts or often ask for one. They are both one. A true gift. They both desire to connect and make memories far more than any gift. Let’s set our kids up for success. Let’s build unshakable bonds rooted in love and dependability. Let’s not share a lesson that family is fair-weather and comes and goes out of our lives. Let’s not make children feel unimportant whether that be at a young age or even as an adult. Every family is different, but that’s our perspective on the benefits of having twins. Whether you have one baby, two babies or more, we wish you the best of luck and hope you enjoy your growing, awesome family. In addition, enjoy the 5 Friday finds brought to you by fascinating twins.....

1. You establish dominance over twins by whining louder and arguing even louder even if you don’t have a built-in playmate to argue with!!

2. The twins at prayer time last night had the nerve to pray that dad picks them up on time in the school line. I have been late once this year!!

3. One thing I have yet to understand about Twins. I assumed, like adults, as they age they would get tired then they’d get sleepy and go to sleep easier. Nah, twins don’t get sleepy when they get tired, they just get increasing less pleasant to be around until you force them to go to sleep!!

4. Twins love getting the mail now and this week they threw a piece of mail at me and said PAY YOUR BILLS, and I didn't know they became my financial advisors overnight!!

5. In my wife's defense: As a dad, I just realized why my porridge was hot, Mom’s was cold, and twins are just right. I feel some type of way now!!