# The Way It Really Is > Twin mom blog about real motherhood, practical tips, and helpful printables ## Posts - [The Risks and Tests you Need to Know About During Your MoDi Twin Pregnancy](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/modi-twin-pregnancy/): There are many things you need to know during your MoDi Twin pregnancy that are beyond what you'd need to know for other types of twin pregnancies or a singleton pregnancy. Here is what I learned throughout my MoDi Twin pregnancy and beyond. - [How to Have a Healthy and Successful Hypothyroid Pregnancy](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/pregnancy-hypothyroidism-successful/): Do you have Hypothyroidism and are pregnant? Having a healthy and successful hypothyroid pregnancy can be done but you'll likely need to advocate for yourself. Here are my top tips and research from my first pregnancy and twin pregnancy. - [15 Fun Games for Family Game Night with Little Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/family-game-night-with-little-kids/): Looking for some fun games for family game night? Playing games with family including little kids can be such a special time of making memories! Here are 15 of our favorite games to play with our little kids. - [Fun and Inexpensive Christmas Activities at Home for the Whole Family](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/christmas-activities-at-home/): Are you looking for some Christmas activities at home for the whole family? We've started new traditions in the past couple of years with plenty of Christmas activities at home to get our kids and ourselves into the holiday spirit and keep us busy! - [Superpower Biomarker Testing for a Comprehensive Look](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/superpower-biomarker-testing/): These days, being healthy goes way beyond going to a traditional physician once a year. I've found that taking my health into my own hands, including with biomarker testing, I get better outcomes than ever before. That's where Superpower comes in! - [Remento to Preserve the Memory of Your Family](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/remento/): A Remento keepsake book is an amazing way to preserve family memories for lifetimes to come! It's so easy to use, there is no writing required, and even grandparents can complete it from their phone or computer by voice recording. - [Top Essentials for a Family Beach Day with Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/beach-sand-water-sun/): Are you headed to the beach with your twins this summer? Here are some of our favorites to bring along to the beach to stay cool and keep our twins occupied. - [Black Friday Home Gym Equipment Deals to Boost Your Workout](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-home-gym-equipment/): There are so many amazing deals on home gym equipment and workout equipment I just had to make an additional Black Friday post to share them with you!! From Bowflex and Schwinn to Peloton and Fitbit, so much is at huge discounts! - [10 Helpful Black Friday Deals on Tools](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-deals-tools/): Black Friday Deals on Tools are always something I look forward to. It's a great time to try something new or get a tool that will better suit your needs! - [Electrifying Black Friday Deals on Electronics](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-deals-electronics/): Black Friday is KNOWN for having some, dare I say, electrifying deals on electronics! Black Friday Deals on Electronics is something I remember from my early days of Black Friday shopping and continues to the present! - [10 Best Black Friday Sales for Baby](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-sales-baby/): As an expectant or new parent, we're always looking for deals on all the baby stuff we need! Here I've rounded up the 10 best Black Friday Sales for Baby! - [Stylish Black Friday Deals on Clothing and Shoes](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-deals-clothing/): Black Friday deals on clothing and shoes are always outstanding! Whether you're stocking up on the essentials for yourself, your kids, or someone else, there are a lot of deals to be had! - [Excellent Black Friday Kitchen Mixer Deals and More for the Kitchen](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-kitchen-mixer-deals/): Black Friday often has great deals on small appliances, including exclusive black Friday kitchen mixer deals such as on a Kitchenaid Standing Mixer! See below for deals on kitchen mixers and more kitchen products! - [10+ Fun Black Friday Deals on Toys for Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/fun-black-friday-deals-on-toys/): Getting a great deal on Black Friday on Toys for Kids is a huge win in my book! It's one of the few times that big brands like Lego go on sale and hundreds of other toys are marked down more than the rest of the year! That means you can either buy more OR save more! (I like to do both) Keep reading to see some of the best Black Friday Deals on Toys for Kids for this year! - [Exciting Black Friday Deals for the Home](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday-home/): Black Friday deals are always something I look for, especially when it comes to things for my home! I'm looking forward to Black Friday Deals for the Home this year since we've been doing some more organization and purging of the old toys we have! - [A Guide for Having Fun Building a Do It Yourself Miniature House](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/do-it-yourself-miniature-house/): Want to get started building Do It Yourself Miniature Houses? They are so much fun to do, a small investment, and hours of fun! I started building them recently and I absolute love it! Here is my guide for what you need to get started! - [Thanksgiving Activities for Children for a Fun and Memorable Thanksgiving at Home](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/thanksgiving-activities/): Are you looking for some Thanksgiving activities to do with your twins this November? Click through to see what we're doing plus an offer for an Autumn Thanksgiving planner plus free printables for your kids! - [The Importance of a Gluten-Free Facility when Gluten-Sensitive or Celiac](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gluten-free-facility/): Have you been gluten-free for years yet still have symptoms? You need to look deeper at what you eat, including whether it's made in a gluten-free facility or not. I learned this the hard way. - [The Sleepeasy Solution Book Review to Help Your Twins Sleep](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/sleep-training-twins/): Are you longing for a good night's sleep but not sure where to start? We were in that situation with our twins and this book helped immensely!! From sample schedules, sleep charts, checking in, and step-by-step directions on how to make a plan, the Sleepeasy Solution book helped us get our twins to finally sleep! - [Best Reusable Water Bottles for Kids and Adults](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/water-bottles-all-ages/): Water bottles are essential anytime but especially in the summer! Here are some great options for everyone from kids to adults, plastic to stainless steel to glass. - [Gift Ideas for Kids and Adults](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gift-guide-mom-dad-kid-baby/): Are you looking for the perfect gift for someone special in your life? Here is an array of gift ideas for everyone in your life. - [8 Year Old Boy Birthday Gift Ideas My Boys Love](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/8-year-old-gift-ideas/): Looking for 8 year old boy birthday gift ideas? Here are a bunch he’s sure to love for his birthday or Christmas! I’m going off the birthday list of my 8-year-old boy to help you find the perfect gift for your 8-year-old in this gift guide.  MindWare Playful Chef Master Series My 8-year-old boy is huge into Master Chef Jr. and this is the perfect set for him! He loves helping out in the kitchen and having his own cooking and baking supplies. This is a great gift for kids who want to help out in the kitchen or are fans of the show, like my son!  […] - [Fun Gift Ideas for 7-Year-Olds that don't Involve Screens](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gift-ideas-for-7-year-olds/): Looking for fun gift ideas for 7-year-olds? I sat my 7-year-old down and asked him all about his favorite things so we could share it with you to help you on your shopping journey! - [15+ Games and More Gift Ideas for 6-Year-Olds](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gift-ideas-for-6-year-olds/): There are so many great games and more gift ideas for 6-year-olds that my twins love! Gifts for 6-year-olds can be hard to decide on now that older kids have clear interests and already have so many toys! Here are the gifts our 6-year-oldsasked for this year and was very excited to receive! - [5 Year Old Birthday Gift Ideas for All Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gifts-for-5-year-olds/): Are you looking for awesome gifts for 5-year-olds?! I've gathered 11 gift ideas that your kids are sure to love based on what my twins loved when they were 5! - [20+ Mother's Day Gift Ideas She'll Actually Want!](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/mothers-day-gift-sale/): Wondering what to get the mom or moms in your life for Mother's Day? Here are over 20 Mother's Day gift ideas she's sure to love! - [Gifts That Will Make Dad's Day This Father's Day](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/fathers-day-gift-ideas/): If you're wondering what to get the father in your life, here are some Father's Day gift ideas that he is sure to love! - [Best Gifts for Men Who Have Everything](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gift-man-dad-husband-son-present/): Are you looking for gift ideas for men in your life? Here are some ideas that any husband, dad, brother, uncle, or adult son would love! - [Creative and Active Gifts for 4-Year-Olds for Any Occasion](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/4-year-old-gifts-toys/): Are you looking for gift ideas for a 4-year-old and/or preschooler?! I've got some great ideas for you that my kids loved at that age!! - [Educational and Fun Gifts for 3-Year-Olds for Any Occasion](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gifts-for-3-year-olds/): Are you looking for educational and fun gifts for 3-year-olds? Below I have some great gifts for 3-year-old boys and girls including puzzles, trains, and pop-up tents. These are all gifts my 3-year-olds have loved at one time or another, especially my twin boys who are currently 3-years-old. - [Over 15 Gift Ideas for Women You May Not Have Thought Of](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gift-ideas-for-women/): Are you looking for gift ideas for women in your life? Here is a round-up of some top gifts women of all ages will like whether they're single, a mom, a wife, a daughter, etc. - [Cold Weather Gear that Holds Up all Winter for the Family](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gear-for-cold-weather/): Looking for cold weather gear that will withstand not only the cold but also the snow? We live in cold and snowy Minnesota and here I'll share what works for us! - [Coming Off Antidepressants after Postpartum Depression](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/coming-off-antidepressants/): If you're on SSRI antidepressants, please know that you need to be very careful coming off antidepressants. Even if you're careful, you may experience side effects that can make it difficult to function normally for a period of time. Here I'll share my two experiences with coming off SSRIs in the past 10 years. - [Best Shows to Binge Watch on Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and More](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/favorite-shows-to-binge-watch/): Looking for the best shows to binge watch? I've got some great suggestions for you from Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video! - [Mommy Wine Culture is Toxic and Needs to Stop](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/mommy-wine-culture-is-toxic/): The Mommy Wine Culture is everywhere. It's easy for moms, especially new moms, to think they cannot survive without drinking. I'm here to tell you that's not true. - [Slowly Losing My Mom to Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease is so Painful](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/early-onset-alzheimers-disease/): It's so hard having my mom, especially so young, slowly dying of Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease. She was diagnosed 6 years ago when she was 59 and since then so much has changed. I'm lucky that my mom is still alive but she's no longer my mom and she doesn't know who I am. - [Fun Halloween Activities for Children](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/halloween-at-home/): Are you looking for some fun Halloween activities for children? Halloween doesn't just have to be one night of trick-or-treating, you can make several days of fun! - [Why We Chose K12 Online School for our Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/k12-online-school/): Are you wanting to teach your kids at home but don't know where to start? That's how I felt last year when my oldest was headed into Kindergarten. Then I was told about K12, it's a online school that is FREE and sends you all the materials you need to teach. - [How to Declutter Kids' Toys WITH Kids: Work Toward a Goal](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/declutter-kids-toys/): Are you overwhelmed with the amount of kids toys in the house? We found a way to declutter toys WITH our kids, as we work toward a common goal, which I'll lay out in this blog post.  - [Gluten Free & Dairy Free Sausage Egg Breakfast Bake](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/easy-sausage-and-egg-bake/): One of my favorite breakfast recipes is this easy gluten free sausage and egg bake. Like all of my recipes, this recipe is allergen-friendly, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. - [Adjusted Age Calculator for Premature Babies](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/adjusted-age-calculator/): The adjusted age calculator for premature babies will help you easily calculate their adjusted age without having to do math. You've got enough going on, let me do the calculating for you. Knowing their adjusted age will help you track developmental milestones accurately. - [Book Review: Potty Training in 3 Days for Toddlers](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/book-review-potty-training-in-3-days/): Want to potty train your child in a weekend? Click through to learn more about what we did and what we used to potty train our kids in just 3 days! - [Health Update: 10 Years after Autoimmune Disease Diagnosis](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/10-years-later/): Have you ever had a health diagnosis that made you change everything? I did 10 years ago and it seems ever since then, I keep having more issues and need to keep changing things. It's exhausting. Here's what I'm doing currently. - [Fun and Easy Crafts for Kids Ages 5+](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/crafts-for-kids/): Looking for fun and easy crafts to keep your twins ages 5+ entertained? Look no further! In this blog post, we have curated a list of exciting craft ideas that are perfect for twins ages 5 and up. These activities will not only spark creativity but also provide an opportunity for bonding and learning. Get ready to unleash your twins' imagination with these engaging crafts! - [Twins First Birthday Gift Ideas They'll Love For Years](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/gifts-for-1-year-olds/): Need 1st birthday gifts for twin babies? From Little People toys to plush cars to learning toys, there are a lot of great 1st birthday gift ideas for twin babies! - [Easy Preschool Crafts Your Twins Will Love](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/easy-crafts-for-kids/): Looking for easy preschool crafts for preschool aged twins? I was looking for crafts my 3 year old twins can do on their own while I'm teaching my 5-year-old Kindergarten, while also developing their fine motor skills. I'm excited with what I found which I'll share below! - [Our Favorite Preschool Workbooks for Twins that are Fun and Educational](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/preschool-workbooks-we-love/): Are you looking for preschool workbooks your preschooler will look forward to using? Here are our favorite preschool workbooks that include letters, numbers, colors, tracing, and animals! Our twins love these!!! - [Guess What?! I am NOT a Perfect Parent and That’s OK!](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/i-am-not-a-perfect-parent-and-thats-ok/): I'm not gonna lie, I am NOT a perfect parent. Sure, I have a blog where I give advice and share tips but I am the first to admit that I am far from perfect...and that's ok! - [My Favorite Places to get Gluten Free Foods on a Budget](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/my-favorite-places-to-get-gluten-dairy-and-soy-free-foods/): Are there food allergies in your house and you're not sure where to buy gluten free foods? Here are some of our favorite places to buy gluten free foods that are also dairy free and soy free. - [I am 1 in 3: My Story of Domestic Violence](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/domestic-violence/): One in 3 women in the United States will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. I am 1 in 3. It's been over 10 years since I was in contact with the person that brought me such trauma, yet it still affects me. - [Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom, Partner, and Baby with Free Printable](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/hospital-bag-checklist-for-baby-and-mom/): Are you wondering what to pack in your hospital bag for when you go into labor? I've got you covered! Here is a hospital bag checklist I used when I went to the hospital to have my babies and a printable checklist for mom, partner, and baby! If you're having twins, just add on another car seat and going home outfit! - [Bath Time for Twins: Tips from Parents of Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/baby-essentials-bath-time/): Wondering what you need to keep your twins safe and entertained during bath time? Here are the baby bath essentials we found very helpful for our twins and older singleton over the years. - [Easy Ways to Tell Identical Twins, and Their Toys, Apart](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/how-to-tell-identical-twins-and-their-toys-apart/): Parents of identical twins are often concerned about being able to tell their identical twins apart. There are several ways that we tell our identical twins apart, and their toys, and I recommend that other twin parents try out. - [Why to Go Fishing with Kids and What You Need For a Successful Trip](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/fishing-with-kids/): Do you want to go fishing with your kids but aren't sure what you need? I've been fishing for decades and this is what I use for my kids and myself. Within this blog post, you'll find tips for fishing with kids, choosing the right gear, and keeping them engaged! - [Fun Family Adventures with Little Kids for All Seasons](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/family-adventures-with-little-kids/): Family adventures create wonderful memories that last a lifetime. Being a dad who works full time, I want to capitalize on the opportunities I have to spend with them and help them get their energy out. Our kids are adventure seekers and are always interested in learning the next great activity. Thankfully they have very active imaginations! - [Wyze Cams for Home Security and Keeping an Eye on the Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/wyze-cam-home-kids/): Wyze Cams are an inexpensive and easy solution to keep an eye on what's going on in, and around, the house. - [6 Easy Toy Organization Ideas To Tame the Chaos](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/toy-organization-chaos/): Are you looking for easy toy organization ideas to tame the chaos of too many toys? I feel your pain!! Here are 6 toy organization ideas we use in our home that help immensely. - [Easy Ways to Prevent the Summer Slide, No Child is Immune](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/summer-slide/): Summer break is a great time to reconnect with your children, nature, and even yourself. It's nice to relax but also keep in mind that including some educational activities throughout the summer is important to prevent summer learning loss known as summer slide. - [Finding it Hard to Celebrate Birthdays with a Traumatic Birth Story](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/traumatic-birth-story/): Do you find it hard to celebrate your kid's birthday due to a traumatic birth story? I've felt this way for all 3 of my boys, especially my twins. Read my story and what has finally helped me. - [Twin Baby Shower Games That Are Actually Fun!](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/twin-baby-shower-games/): Are you planning a baby shower and looking for twin baby shower games that your guests will actually enjoy? I've got what you need as a twin baby shower host in this blog post and printables including twin baby shower games and a twin baby shower planner! - [Postpartum Rage: What You Need to Know & My Story](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/postpartum-rage/): If you're feeling angrier than you ever have and you're in the postpartum period, you may be experiencing postpartum rage. You're not alone, it happened to me after I had my twins and I had no idea what was going on, despite my background in psychology. They didn't teach us about postpartum rage. - [Schedule for 1 Year Old Twins (plus 3 year old singleton)](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/schedule-for-1-year-old-twins/): Curious what a day in the life of 1 year old twins and a 3 year old is like? Here is our schedule for 1 year old twins and older singleton. We found a schedule to help calm some of the chaos of three littles! - [When to Transition from a Toddler Bed to a Twin Bed for Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/twin-bed/): Knowing when to transition from toddler beds to twin beds for your twins can be a tricky situation. You want to be sure that they're developmentally ready, that they have say in the change, and yet do it without disrupting their bedtime routine and sleep!  - [Home Remedies for Teething Pain for Twins, Especially at Night](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/teething-twins/): When your twins are teething, nighttime is rougher than usual! When it came to my twins teething, here are the things that helped throughout the day and at night. - [Book Review of Fierce Delight: Poems of Early Motherhood](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/fierce-delight-review/): If you're looking for a book of poetry that will speak to you and put into words your feelings around motherhood, you'll love my friend Emily Bright's new book, Fierce Delight. It's full of poems about motherhood and beyond. - [The Best Breast Pump for Twins for Exclusively Pumping](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/best-breast-pump-for-twins/): Are you expecting twins and looking for the best breast pump for twins? Whether you're exclusively pumping or just wanting to build your milk supply, this post will help you make your decision on the best breast pump for you.  - [Twin Due Date Calculator for Twin Pregnancy](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/twin-due-date-calculator/): Are you pregnant with twins but not sure when you'll deliver due to different types of identical twins being delivered at different times? I'm a mom of identical MoDi Twins and I created this twin due date calculator to help you determine what to expect! - [Gifts for Babies Under 1 for Learning and Play](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/toys-for-babies-ages-0-12-months/): Are you looking for fun gift ideas for babies under 1 that will be fun to play with and help them learn? I've got some great toys for babies your little one is going to love! - [Printable Daily Infant Report Sheets for Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/infant-daily-report-sheets-for-twins/): Having a printable daily infant report for your twins where you can keep track of both of them on one page is a HUGE help! Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, nanny, daycare provider, or child care center, this daily report is a great way to keep track of everything from diaper changes to nap times to feedings and more! Daily Report for Twins When you have newborn twins it’s easy to lose track of who you fed or changed and when. I know from first-hand experience since I’m a mom of twins!  It may seem like you can keep track of all of it in your head or within a notebook […] - [Important Tips to Help You During the First Year with Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/first-year-with-twins-2/): Are you wondering how you're going to survive the first year with twins? It's ok, I was too, and somehow I made it, postpartum depression and all! Below I have gathered up some of my helpful tips for those early days, weeks, and months! - [Fun Children's Easter Activities and Gluten Free Easter Recipes](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/childrens-easter-activities/): Are you looking for some fun Children's Easter Activities? Here are some of our favorite children's Easter activities, books, and moments to share throughout the Easter season. I'll also share our favorite gluten free and dairy free Easter recipes! - [How I Discovered I Have Hashimoto's in Addition to Hypothyroidism & What I Did To Feel Better](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/hashimotos/): Have you recently been diagnosed with Hashimoto's Disease and are wondering where to go from here? Here is my Hashimoto's story and the resources I suggest which have really helped me on my Hashimoto's journey. - [10+ Things You Don't Need For Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/dont-need-for-twins/): Having twins isn't cheap and there are many things that you don't need for twins, or any babies really. Below I'll detail what you don't need for twins and why. - [Dairy Free Breastfeeding Diet Made Easy](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/dairy-free-breastfeeding-diet/): Learning that your baby is reacting to dairy when you're a breastfeeding mom is a lot to handle. If you have to start a dairy free breastfeeding diet, I'm here to help, and make it easy! - [A Comprehensive Guide of What to Buy for Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/what-to-buy-for-twins/): Wondering what to buy for twins? Are you pregnant with twins or buying for someone who is? You'll want to see the posts below regarding what we actually used two of for our twins and what we found we only needed one of, or didn't need at all! - [10 Years Sober: What I've Learned and How Far I've Come](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/10-years-sober/): Are you wondering how to get and stay sober? Once I hit 10 years sober I felt I'd got this down pretty well and want to share with you how I got sober, what I've learned, and how I've stayed sober for so long. - [How to Have a Sober St. Patrick's Day You'll Enjoy and Remember](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/sober-st-patricks-day/): Are you sober and are wondering how to have a sober St. Patrick's Day? Here are some tips on how I've stayed sober over the years, some fun sober St. Patty's activities you can do, craft ideas for the kids, and the actual history of St. Patrick and his day. - [Boost Social Skills with Preschool Books About Sharing](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/books-about-sharing/): Are you having a hard time getting your kids to share? Sharing is a difficult topic for children, here are some books about sharing that helped my three boys learn how to share. - [We've Been Still COVIDing for 5 Years and Counting](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/still-coviding-5-years/): We're Still COVIDing 5 years later and we're not alone. As I reflect on the past five years since the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world, I think of the good that it has done for our family as well as the bad and our plans moving forward. - [10+ Fun Outdoor Toddler Activities They'll Love](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/8-best-outdoor-summer-toys-for-toddlers/): I've found that having the right outdoor toddler activities at home can lead to hours of fun so us busy toddler parents can sit for a while! Here are our favorite outdoor activities for my twins and singleton when they were toddlers and beyond. - [The Disappointment of Mother's Day That Many Mothers Feel](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/the-disappointment-of-mothers-day/): The disappointment of Mother's Day is a real thing. Mother's Day is all about celebrating moms but for many, it falls flat. This can lead to disappointment, resentment, and feeling like all hard work we do isn't appreciated. - [How to Plan a Road Trip with Twins](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/road-trip-with-twins/): Are you planning a road trip with twins? Here are our top tips for planning your road trip from setting expectations, planning for breaks, meals on the go, activities, and more! - [Best Pregnancy Tracker for Twins Printable by a Twin Mom](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/twin-pregnancy-journal/): Are you pregnant with twins and feeling overwhelmed with everything you need to keep track of throughout your high-risk pregnancy? The Pregnancy Tracker for Twins Printable will be your constant companion throughout your twin pregnancy journey, where you can write everything you need to keep track of and document your twin pregnancy.  - [Chore Calendar Printable for Kids and Family](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/chore-calendar/): The chore calendar printable is more than just a chore calendar, it includes chore charts, responsibility charts, and more! The family chore chart will help younger kids and older kids alike with remembering which household chores they need to do and give them a sense of responsibility. - [Best Toddler Basketball Hoop for Hours of Fun](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/best-toddler-basketball-hoop/): Are you looking for the best toddler basketball hoop that your child will love for years? We were too and found our favorite one that has an adjustable basketball hoop, comes with basketballs, is durable, and will last from the time you have young kids to older kids. - [Best Travel Toys for Toddlers and Young Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/mess-free-go-children-occupied/): Looking for fun yet mess free ways to keep your twins occupied while on the go or at home? Here are some great ideas for road trips or just needing to step away to make dinner and not have to worry about a mess! - [A Book Review of To Have and To Hold, an Inspiring Book on Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/motherhood-depression-help-love/): Are you looking for a book on Motherhood like no other? A book that knows what you're going through and can speak to you so clearly and eloquently you'll feel like the author knows you? Then I've got a book for you! - [Twin Baby Registry Quick Reference](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/twin-registry-quick-reference/): Wondering what to buy for twins? Here is what we had on our registry and only the things we actually used. You already have to buy two of many things, you don't need to waste your money on stuff you won't use! - [Easter Basket Ideas for Kids that Aren't Candy](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/non-candy-easter-basket-ideas/): Wondering what to put in your kids' Easter baskets? If you're like me and like to go beyond the traditional candy, here are some Easter basket ideas for kids that aren't candy, broken down by age. - [Easter Basket Ideas for 5-7 Year Old Children](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/easter-basket-ideas-5-7/): Looking for Easter Basket ideas for 5-7 Year Old Children? You're in the right spot! These Easter Basket ideas are a great way to get children excited about Easter Morning for possibly one of the last years they'll be excited about Easter Bunny! - [Easter Basket Ideas for 3-5 Year Old Preschoolers](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/easter-basket-ideas-for-preschoolers/): From Easter themed books to activity books to Play-Doh and mini dinosaurs, what’s not to love in this list of Easter basket ideas for 3 to 5 year olds?! As kids get older it’s fun to add more non candy Easter basket ideas to their baskets in addition to Easter books. We’ve added Play Doh, Dinosaur Easter Eggs, Activity Books, Crayons, and more! - [Easter Basket Toys for Toddlers plus Books](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/easter-basket-toys-for-toddlers/): Are you looking for Easter basket toys for toddlers? Below I'll share our favorite ideas for toddler Easter baskets that our kids loved when they were toddlers, and some new ones I wish they had when my kids were toddlers! - [Best Easter Basket Stuffers for Babies](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/easter-basket-stuffers-for-babies/): Easter is such a fun time for littles, even babies! Just because your baby can’t eat candy yet doesn’t mean they have to miss out on their first Easter Basket. Here are Easter Basket stuffers for babies from books to stuffed animals to toys that they’ll love to get this Easter Sunday. - [Easy and Delicious Gluten Free and Dairy Free Peanut Butter Cups Recipe](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/dairy-free-peanut-butter-cups/): Are you looking for a sweet treat to make that is easy and delicious?! Try this gluten free and dairy free peanut butter cups recipe! - [Quiet Book Review on the Power of Introverts](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/introvert-quiet-book/): Are you an introvert and looking for a book written specifically for you to help you harness your inner power? Then this book is for YOU! Here is my book review Susan Cain's book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking.. This book has helped me better understand the positive things of being an introvert and that it's ok to have this personality type! - [Overwhelmed with Kids Toys? How to Start Using Existing Toys Purposefully](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/using-existing-toys/): Using existing toys with purpose can help cut down on the chaos, clutter, and boredom! Are you finding yourself unsure of how to get your children to play with the toys they already have instead of always feeling like they need more? Here are some tips! - [The Best Natural Products for Cleaning the Kitchen](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/clean-the-kitchen/): Cleaning the kitchen is an every day, multiple times a day, task for me being a stay-at-home homeschooling mama with three little boys! Here are the products that help me keep my kitchen clean and don't require much time or effort. - [Anniversary and Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Everyone](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/valentines-day-gift-ideas/): Valentine's Day & Anniversary gift ideas can be hard to think of. Here are some ideas for the special person in your life from date night ideas to individual gifts. - [15+ Fun Indoor Activities for Kids](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/10-kids-activities-cold-wind-rain-inside/): Are you looking for fun indoor activities for kids for when you're stuck indoors due to cold, wind, rain, or other weather? Here are my top 15+ fun kids activities for just such an occasion. I've also added a bonus activity for you to have on hand! - [Setting up a Homeschool Classroom for Twins that is Fun and Organized](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/setting-up-a-classroom-at-home/): Setting up a homeschool classroom can seem like a daunting task. Below I'll detail how to set up a fun and organized homeschool classroom that you and your kids will love spending time in! ## Pages - [Black Friday Deals](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/black-friday/): Black Friday is what many shoppers wait for every year to get the best deals for their hard earned money! This year almost everyone is starting early so it’s time to get shopping!! Black Friday Get your wishlists ready!! Haven’t made one yet? Click here to make your own Amazon wishlist of items that you want to follow for Black Friday and throughout the year. You can make one for your partner, your kids, anyone! Learn more in this blog post. My Black Friday History Back in the early 2000s when I was a teenager, Black Friday deals didn’t start […] - [Twin Pregnancy Blog: Here to Help You Through It](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/having-twins-start-here/): Did you just find out you’re pregnant with twins and are feeling overwhelmed? I’m here to help you through it with my twin pregnancy blog from your first ultrasound where you find out you’re carrying to twins all the way through delivery. Here’s what you need to know.  Twin Pregnancy Primer Here are some things to know about twins right off the bat, no matter the type of twin pregnancy you are in the middle of.  My 3 Top Pieces of Advice for Twin Pregnancy #1 Trust Your Mama Gut Throughout your twin pregnancy, my biggest piece of advice is […] - [Prime Big Deal Days](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/prime-early-access-deals/): Prime Big Deal Days 2024 are a precursor to Black Friday deals for Prime Members Only!! Below I’ll share some of the great deals I’ve found that I think you’ll be really excited about! Pre Big Deal Day Deals Prime Big Deal Days doesn’t start until October 8th, 2024 but they already have some great deals going leading up to the big day! Prime Big Deal Days Below I’ve linked the posts I’ve made for the categories that I think you’ll love the most! From baby deals to deals on electronics, I’ve got it below! - [Amazon Prime Day](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/amazon-prime-day/): Amazon Prime Day is basically Black Friday in July! Amazon Prime Day will be here before we know it and I’ll update the posts below as deals are released and keep updating throughout the two day event. Shop all the Deals here! This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information. Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial To fully participate in Prime Day you need to have Amazon Prime! You can start a 30-day free trial to Amazon Prime by […] - [The Authentic Twin Mom Blog](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/): Welcome to The Way it Really Is, the twin mom blog where moms are empowered through honest personal experiences, practical tips, and helpful printables to make life easier. Featured Topics Below are just some of the most popular topics, see the menu above for more! Most Recent Posts See More Recent Posts - [Digital Product Terms and Conditions and Copyright](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/digital-product-terms/): Digital Product Terms and Conditions and Copyright for digital products of The Way it Really Is.com / The Way it Really Is, LLC. Digital products include printables, courses, ebooks, anything sold digitally by The Way it Really Is, LLC. COPYRIGHT NOTICE COPYRIGHT © The Way it Really Is, LLC 2025 – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE YOUR RIGHTS: This digital product: printable, course, or ebook, and its content are restricted to your personal use only. It does not come with any other rights. This printable, course, or ebook and its content are protected by international copyright law and may not be […] - [The Way it Really Is Printables Shop](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/shop/): Are you looking for helpful printables that will entertain your children, help you get organized, plan out special events, and more? You’ve come to the right place! Featured Products Freebies!! Tidy Home Freebie Achieve a clutter-free home without sacrificing quality time with your family Organization Freebie Download now and experience the convenience and peace of mind that organization brings! Grocery Price Comparison Worksheets Modeled after my popular grocery price comparison blog posts, you can do your own comparison easily!! Children’s Activities Kids Monthly Handprint Memory Book A delightful way for parents and teachers to commemorate the precious moments of their […] - [Recent Posts of The Way it Really Is Twin Mom Blog](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/recent-posts/): Want to see the 100 most recent posts of The Way it Really Is Twin Mom Blog? Here they are! From Twin Pregnancy to The First Year with Twins to Raising Twins and Twin Motherhood, you’re sure to find something that interests you. - [PRIVACY POLICY](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/privacy-policy-2/): The Way it Really Is, LLC (“company”, “I”, “we” or “us”) is dedicated to respecting the privacy of your personal information, and this privacy policy describes what information is collected from you on www.thewayitreallyis.com (hereinafter the “website”) and how it is used. This Privacy Policy applies to this website and any products or services that we offer that link to this policy. The term “you” refers to anyone who uses, visits and/or views the website. By visiting and using the website, you accept and agree to be bound by this privacy policy. Your continued use of the website after posting […] - [Contact Us](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/contact-us/): Do you have a question, concern, or idea for a blog post? Send me an email below! - [Testimonial Disclaimer](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/testimonial-disclaimer/): Last updated: 02/15/2022 The testimonials, reviews, endorsements, and insights presented on https://thewayitreallyis.com (the “Site’) are for illustrative purposes only and are applicable to the individuals depicted. The testimonials, reviews, endorsements, and insights are a reflection of the unique experiences and opinions of the individuals depicted. Results may vary and may not be representative of the experience of others using our products and/or services. The testimonials, reviews, endorsements, and insights are not intended to represent, promise, or guarantee that others will achieve the same or similar results. The experiences depicted on the Site may not be typical. Unique experiences and past […] - [Copyright Notice](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/copyright-notice/): COPYRIGHT © 2024 THE WAY IT REALLY IS, LLC | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE  YOUR RIGHTS: This blog and its content are restricted to your personal use only. It does not come with any other rights.  This blog and its content are protected by international copyright law and may not be modified, compiled, combined with other content, copied, recorded, synchronized, transmitted, translated, formatted, distributed, publicly displayed, publicly performed, reproduced, given away, used to create derivative works and otherwise used or exploited (including for-profit) without the creator’s expressed permission. The creator retains full copyrights to this blog and its content.  The creator […] - [DISCLAIMER](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/disclaimer/): GENERAL INFORMATION The Way it Really Is, LLC (“company”, “I”, “we” or “us”) provides general educational information on various topics on this website as a public service, which should not be construed as professional, financial, real-estate, tax or medical advice. These are my personal opinions only.  The term “you” refers to anyone who uses, visits and/or views the website. Please read this Disclaimer carefully, and I reserve the right to modify it at any time without notice.  By visiting and using this website, you accept and agree to be bound by this Disclaimer along with our Terms and Conditions and Privacy […] - [TERMS AND CONDITIONS](https://www.thewayitreallyis.com/terms-and-conditions/): By visiting and using www.thewayitreallyis.com (hereinafter the “website”), you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions including our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy posted on the website and incorporated herein by reference.  The term “you” refers to anyone who uses, visits and/or views the website. The Way it Really Is (“company”, “I”, “we” or “us”) reserves the right to amend or modify these terms and conditions in its sole discretion at any time without notice and by using the website, you accept those amendments.  It is your responsibility to periodically check the website for updates.  Your continued […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)