• About Our Family
  • Work With Me
  • Shop My Designs
  • Get In Touch
  • Cookie Policy
The Twinkle Diaries

The Twinkle Diaries

  • Life
    • Health & Beauty
    • Style & Fashion
    • Family
    • Blogging
    • The Twinterviews
    • My Twin Pregnancy
  • Home & Garden
    • Garden
    • Interiors
    • Grade 2 Listed Renovation
    • The She-Shed
  • Food & Drink
    • Cocktails and Alcohol
    • Cakes & Biscuits
    • Drinks
    • Free From
    • Ice Lollies
    • Savoury Dishes
    • Soup
    • Sweet Treats
  • Craft
    • Home Makes
    • Fancy Dress
    • Pantone
    • Paper Craft
    • Pom Poms
    • Made
  • Adventures
    • In the UK
    • Abroad
    • Festivals
    • Camping
  • Caravan Love
    • Caravan Accessories
    • Caravan Tips
    • Caravan Adventures
You are here: Home / Life / The Twinterviews / The Twinterview | Hayley from the blog ‘Hayley From Home’

7 April 2015 · 28 Comments

The Twinterview | Hayley from the blog ‘Hayley From Home’

The Twinterviews

 

My seventh Twinterview in the series is with my lovely friend Hayley,  who writes a fabulous parenting and lifestyle blog called Hayley From Home.

I remember so clearly when her twins were born and it’s been so lovely to see her three boys growing up together. Her answers to the Twinterview questions are really fantastic. Any expectant mama (or daddy) of twins would be hard pressed to find more honest and helpful advice. And with that, it’s over to Hayley!

Hayley from homeHow did you feel when you first found out you were having twins?

Totally shocked; I hadn’t ever thought that it might be twins so we went to the twelve week scan as normal.

Just as the lady started the scan the thought popped into my head then flew out again. The first thing she said was ‘Well, I have some news’ as soon as she said that I knew and I looked over at my bewildered husband, we both laughed. I remember her asking if we had any other children and I said ‘yes, a boy who is nearly two’, we just kept looking at each other, shaking our heads and laughing.

For the first hour I was on cloud nine, then I had three days of complete panic before the news properly settled in. In the end I think it was meant to be as I always wanted three children and I was so excited to be having twins.

Did you have a straightforward pregnancy?

In the end, yes it all went smoothly. At first they thought my twins were MCMA (one placenta, one amniotic sac) which is extremely rare and can be complicated.

Despite this I still didn’t see a consultant until 20 weeks and I didn’t see the lead consultant until 22 weeks who panicked — told me to prepare for the worst — and sent me to a specialist hospital for a scan.

I was an absolute wreck leading up to that scan but as soon as they started the ultrasound they spotted the separate sacs. I burst into tears, my boys were MCDA meaning a much lower risk pregnancy and later delivery date. It is worth saying that the doctor at this hospital was extremely positive on MCMA twins and put my mind at rest straight away; my original consultant just wasn’t experienced in multiples.

After this at each appointment I requested to see the same doctor who had experience with twins and was just fantastic, he even performed the c-section and welcomed our boys into the world.

How was your birth experience?

Right up until the end I was still trying to decide whether or not to have a c-section; one of the twins was head down and one was crushed right up at the top lying transverse. They didn’t put any pressure on me but I could see the relief when I asked for a c-section, my biggest fear was giving birth to one naturally and then needing a cesarean for the second.

They booked me in for Christmas Eve but after getting to the hospital and getting ready for theatre I was told that their SCBU was full and so were the local units. If they needed any care they would be sent away and I would have to stay there. They didn’t think they’d need it but no one wanted to take the risk. Also my doctor wasn’t on surgery that day but he would be when I was booked back in, so I feel like maybe it was meant to be.

I was booked back in three days later; bang on 37 weeks. My first child was a natural birth but it was such a difficult labour so going into hospital knowing you are going to have your babies that day seems surreal. It was fantastic, so calm and I remember it all so vividly.

Brandon was born first and was 5lbs 10oz,  Arthur came out one minute later and was 5lbs 9.5oz. The first thing I heard was our doctor saying ‘hello’ and then a cry. Then they were both placed on my chest and quietly took it all in. It was amazing; I was just in awe that I had carried these two tiny people!

How did you cope with having twins in the early days?

It is all such a blur but you just do it! You know it is going to be hard work but you’ve just got to crack on.

The only way I could possibly cope was having a routine; once my husband was back in work I had a nice little routine set up and that helped me get through the days. My husband had about three weeks off and family would cook us meals and take washing.

My mum used to come on her way home from work and my Nana would visit once a week. Every little thing helps so accept help if it is offered.

At the time I honestly remember thinking it wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be. The tiredness is hard and it puts such a strain on you and your relationship. I had prepared for the worst I think and actually the joy of having two babies keeps you going through the tough patches. Also you feel like Supermum when you can look after two babies at once!

Did/do you have an essential ‘must-have’ item and what is it?

Bouncers; I couldn’t have coped without them.

We only had cheap ones kept from when Lucas was a baby but they were a life-saver. I could feed them both in them, one on either side which helped keep the routine the same. It was somewhere safe to leave them and they would have little cat-naps in them. I kept using them for as long as I could but when they finally started to escape I knew it was time to give them up.

What is the best thing about being a parent of multiples?

All those cheesy things people say about double the joy, double the love; it is completely true! I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Seeing them grow up together, the bond they have and knowing that they will be friends for life is truly heart-warming. The way they interact makes me smile every single day.

Being part of the twin mums club is pretty special too.  Only a twin mum will know how truly hard your bad days can be and how amazing the good ones are. Having twins has given me a bond with other twin parents which I will always be thankful for.

And the worst?

Trying to split yourself in two and the guilt. This has become easier as they have grown older but I remember the early stages not knowing what to do when they both needed my comfort. I felt like I was torn in all directions, especially with an older one too.

Also, when people walk past and say ‘You’ve got your hands full’ or ‘Double trouble’. At first this really didn’t bother me but after 13 months of it hearing it every time we go out I must admit it does annoy me now. If you ever see a twin mum please think to say something nice, I promise you it will make her day!

And finally, what would your top tip be for any new — or soon to be —parent of twins?

I wrote down all my top tips when I felt like we were coming through the other side and I still stand by them now. The biggest thing for me was keeping them in the same routine. The routine doesn’t have to be set in stone but it does help get you through the days. We fed them at the same time and they slept at the same time — and still do now — it made everything so much easier for us.

Also, have everything to hand; nappies, wipes, sleepsuits, muslins. We had them stockpiled in three rooms in the house. You can never have enough!

Meet other twin parents – this is an important one! However you do it; in real life, online, at groups or twin classes it always helps to have a twin mum (or Dad) on hand. I don’t know what I would have done without the support of other Multiple Mamas!

To read more about Hayley’s life,  with her lovely boys,  pop over to her blog — Hayley from Home — or follow her on Twitter.

If you’re a mummy or daddy to twins, triplets or more  — and would like to share your experiences as a parent of multiples, in a ‘Twinterview’, please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you!

Please share, if you like this!

0shares
  • Share
  • Tweet
Previous Post: « How To Make Salt Dough Easter Decorations
Next Post: 108 weeks and 1 day | A day out at Folly Farm »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Nicola@twinmummyyummy says

    15 April 2015 at 11:21 pm

    ‘Only a twin mum will know how truly hard your bad days can be and how amazing the good ones are. ‘ nearly made me cry. You are dead right. I sometimes feel like yelling – you just don’t get it, when people say daft things, but feel like it makes me sound superior. Glad we’re all in the same boat to a certain degree. I enjoyed reading your story, Hayley.

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      16 April 2015 at 1:30 pm

      It’s absolutely right isn’t it? Only another mum of multiples could really understand what it’s like. It’s lovely knowing that there are people that understand though! I find other twin mums so supportive x

      Reply
  2. Nicola@twinmummyyummy says

    15 April 2015 at 11:20 pm

    ‘Only a twin mum will know how truly hard your bad days can be and how amazing the good ones are. ‘ nearly made me cry. You are dead right. I sometimes feel like yelling – you just don’t get it, when people say daft things, but feel like it makes me sound superior. Glad we’re all in the same boat to a certain degree. I enjoyed reading your story, Hayley.

    Reply
  3. Katie says

    13 April 2015 at 8:54 pm

    What a lovely and positive interview and totally true, twins really are a double blessing. Even with mine as hormonal teenagers I see what wonderful and beautiful women they will become one day and just try and grin and bear the shouty days! Thanks for linking this up with #MultipleMadness xxx

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      14 April 2015 at 9:50 am

      So true Katie. Even on the bad days, it amazing me that I’ve got these two amazing little people, with their incredible, magic bond.

      Reply
  4. Beth Twinderelmo says

    9 April 2015 at 7:02 pm

    Thats so cool – I had my girls dead on 37w too by section & also had 1 child and found out at 12w scan too!!!!

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      10 April 2015 at 1:48 pm

      Wow! That’s so spookily similar isn’t it? And strangely, your interviews are very similar too, in how lovely and positive they both are! Just a joy to read both of your sets of answers! :)

      Reply
    • Hayley @hayleyfromhome says

      12 April 2015 at 10:07 pm

      Ooh that is weird!! I knew we had a few similarities but not that many, loved your twinterview too Beth xx

      Reply
  5. Farmerswifeandmummy says

    9 April 2015 at 5:49 am

    What a fab interview. I once saw a woman with quads and I remembered what Hayley said so I said what a blessing and they are. I really wanted twins I don’t know why but I enjoy reading twin blogs instead :D

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      9 April 2015 at 11:09 am

      Thanks so much :) I always wanted twins too… and just look what happened!! You sometimes do get what you wish for, that’s for sure! x

      Reply
    • Hayley @hayleyfromhome says

      12 April 2015 at 10:08 pm

      Ahh Emma, I bet you made that lady’s day! What a sweet thing to do xx

      Reply
  6. Katy {What Katy Said} says

    8 April 2015 at 7:49 pm

    Love this series and another fab interview here from Hayley! I am shocked they left you so long to find out if they were ok! You must have been so worried all those weeks!!! x

    Reply
    • Hayley (@hayleyfromhome) says

      8 April 2015 at 8:11 pm

      It was so awful at the time, I really wish I had stood up for myself more looking back but I had two healthy babies at the end of it all and that was all that mattered then! xx

      Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      9 April 2015 at 11:01 am

      Thanks Kate :) It’s such a great interview isn’t it? So lovely to have all these different perspectives! x

      Reply
  7. Mini Travellers says

    8 April 2015 at 7:58 am

    I totally agree with the please say something nice to a mum of twins. However please (if she is looking harassed) don’t say. I always wanted twins, it must be easy as they have someone to play with. I have nearly given my babies to people who said that!

    Reply
    • Hayley (@hayleyfromhome) says

      8 April 2015 at 8:10 pm

      Why would someone say that? Haha, I’m not surprised you nearly let them have a turn! On the odd occasion someone does say something nice though it very nearly reduces me to tears :) xx

      Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      9 April 2015 at 10:56 am

      Yep — totally agree. I’ve lost count of the times people have said ‘double trouble’ or ‘you’ve got your hands full!’ — I always reply with ‘double the love’ or ‘actually, I have triplets but I’ve left the ugly one in the car’ — that usually stops them in their tracks! ;)

      Reply
  8. Hayley (@hayleyfromhome) says

    7 April 2015 at 10:00 pm

    I am so, so thrilled to be part of your Twinterview series Caro. I’ve loved reading all the other posts, it has been so great to read all about other twin parents experiences. Thank you for featuring me too xx

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      9 April 2015 at 10:41 am

      Aaah pet — I’m delighted to have you take part!! Thanks SO much taking the time to do it! After all — with 3 little ones — it’s not like you’ve got all the time in the world on your hands it it?! X

      Reply
  9. Sarah Christie says

    7 April 2015 at 8:54 pm

    lovely post Hayley and Caro, Hayley you are just so calm, such an earth Mother you just make it look so easy xx

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      7 April 2015 at 9:12 pm

      She does make it look easy! Particularly as she already had one little boy!! Amazingly calm! :)

      Reply
      • Hayley (@hayleyfromhome) says

        7 April 2015 at 9:57 pm

        That really is so kind of you Sarah, it’s nice to know I project that image even when I don’t always feel it! I think a lot of twin mums are quite calm because they have to be! xx

        Reply
  10. Katie @mummydaddyme says

    7 April 2015 at 8:52 pm

    I loved reading about this, I love Hayley’s blog and really enjoy getting an insight into her life and how she raises her three gorgeous boys. xx

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      7 April 2015 at 9:11 pm

      Thanks so much Katie! It’s been such a fascinating series. Lovely to get the perspectives of all these lovely twin mums! Hayley’s answers are fabulous.

      Reply
    • Hayley (@hayleyfromhome) says

      7 April 2015 at 9:53 pm

      Thank you so much Katie, this was so much fun to answer even though it seems like so long ago when we found out we were having twins! You are right Caro, it is fascinating to read everyone’s responses xx

      Reply
  11. mummyofboygirltwins says

    7 April 2015 at 8:15 pm

    This is fab!! Hayley you are amazing! Love how you laughed in the scan then panicked for days! You are spot on with all of this – you just have to ‘get on with it’ don’t you? As you have to! I too appreciated and am so fortunate for meeting so many fellow twin Mums…they’re so supportive. Great post again Caro – love these so much xx

    Reply
    • The Twinkles Momma says

      7 April 2015 at 9:02 pm

      I feel SO blessed to have twins — on SO many levels. One in particular is the support from other parents of multiples! It’s like an amazing, totally inclusive, welcoming club of people who all share a common bond. It’s lovely.

      Reply
    • Hayley (@hayleyfromhome) says

      7 April 2015 at 9:42 pm

      Aww thank you! I honestly don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t tapped into the twitter twin mums, you guys are an amazing support network! I’ve loved this series too so great to get an insight into others lives with twins xx

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

Hello!

Caro Davies art directed fashion and interiors before leaving the world of design to pursue a career in social media. She can now be found chasing the light — and two small twin boys. Read More…

Prints, Papercuts & Cards

BLOG NETWORK

HIBS100 Index of Home and Interior Blogs
HIBS100

IN THE ARCHIVES

Footer

  • E-mail
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

© The Twinkle Diaries {A UK Lifestyle Blog} | 2012 - The Present Day