BCM - How did your life change when you became a mom?:

Natalie - I think the real question is how DIDN’T it change. From my sleep schedule to the contents of my purse, my life got turned upside down, but in a good way. 

BCM - What has been your most memorable moment(s) as a mom?

Natalie The most memorable moment was when my son was diagnosed as a special needs kiddo. It was traumatizing and overwhelming and made me even more thankful an organization like the Manhattan Twins Club existed. The day we got all our paperwork back from the psychologist, I posted a message to the Twins Club web forum and I received eight phone calls in thirteen minutes. Our city twin moms are unreal in the support that they give.

BCM - What has been the biggest challenge for you in motherhood?

Natalie - The biggest challenge is trying to figure out how to be a volunteer, business woman, mom and awesome wife, all at the same time.  I think it’s really something women in general struggle with. Each day I wonder if I can pull off another day of keeping everyone as content (note: I didn’t say happy) as possible.

BCM - What inspired you to start your company Twiniversity?

Natalie - I saw that there was a real need for education in New York City, as well as the rest of the country, in regards to multiple parenting. As the Director of the Manhattan Twins Club for some time now, I am able to anticipate many of the questions our members have, especially the expectant ones! I can tell you right now, almost every pregnant parent of twins wants to know about breastfeeding, how much help they need and which stroller is best! It was at a Manhattan Twins Club Meeting in April of 2009 that a mom suggested “you should really write a book” and I came home and thought, “you know, she’s right”. So I started thinking, I’ll take baby steps and organize an Expectant Parents class. That became a hit, and I added more and more classes and Tada, Twiniversity was born!

BCM - In addition to Twiniversity you are also the director of the Manhattan Twins Club.    How can moms of twins get involved?

Natalie - I STRONGLY suggest that everyone join their local multiple parenting organization the moment they find out they are pregnant with more than one. Not only does our community have special circumstances to take into consideration (we occasionally deliver early and sometimes end up on bedrest), it’s nice to get some real life experience from your fellow moms of multiples. You can join our club by visiting www.ManhattanTwinsClub.org

BCM - Do you have any quick tips for moms of twins? 

Natalie - Yes! Make sure you buy a good stroller! These streets of our in New York City are not for meek strollers. Buy something substantial, with air or foam filled tires. Little Folks, down on 23rd street, has the best selection. One of the owners, Saul, is a dad of twins himself.

BCM - How do you manage your career while being a mother and a wife? Any advice for moms?

Natalie - You know, to be honest with you, it’s hard. This isn’t easy, but when you have a plan, it all goes ok. I try to have my months lined up ahead of schedule with my volunteer work for the twins club, and I try to have my meetings all scheduled for Twiniversity AFTER I filled my calendar in with the kids events and some planned dates with my hubby. I would LOVE to say “Sure, let me tell your moms how to have it all”,but I’m still trying to figure it out. Get back to me when I’m sixty, maybe I’ll have it all figured it out then.
 

BCM - What types of activities do you like to do with your kids? 

Natalie - It’s so basic, but I love lying in my bed with them watching a movie. We do so much running around with school and my son’s therapy, that we have little time for fun and relaxation. I relish in the moments when we are all snuggly watching Ghostbusters or something that is not the most child appropriate!

BCM - If you could give another mom or expectant mom one piece of advice, what would it be?

Natalie - Don’t forget your partner! It’s easy to get caught up in the insanity that comes along with being a mom, especially a new mom. Your partner may get the short end of the stick sometimes. Never forget, the person sitting next to you on the couch watching TV or listening to NPR is the same person that you should want sitting next to you after your kids are off to college. Don’t let the years pass you by without taking time and putting some effort into your marriage.    

BCM - What has been your favorite Big City Moms event to date?

Natalie - I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, your baby showers! I love the mix of folks who attend, both as guests and as exhibitors. I learn so much about new products and services that are offered by the head honchos of the parenting community.