The Two-Headed-Monster

In the last several posts, we've talked about getting baby stuff for free (or nearly free). This is especially key if you have a 2- (or 3...or more) headed-monster, like we do. I'm referring to the twins.

They are 8 now, so now it's not such a big deal-- except for keeping their bellies full and that's just a whole 'nother post, and part of the reason why I stockpile. Back to them as babies... I did everything I could to prepare for life with 2 crying babies. I devoured every book I could get my hands on that remotely dealt with twins, sat down with friends who had multiples to watch their daily routines, and enrolled in a multiples class (where we met some wonderful friends --with twins and triplets-- and many of us still keep in touch. I would love to post a picture of all of us with all our babies; 10 couples, 21 babies!).

While in the multiples class, we were given a list of every baby product company imaginable and an address in which to write. The suggestion was to write letters to each company stating we'd had multiples and request samples of their products. Let me back up about 6 weeks before that. It was the end of the school year and I had just quit my teaching job and our income had been cut in half, with twin babies due at any time. Did I mention this was pre-coupon days? I think I'm having an anxiety attack just thinking about it!

I wrote that letter and copied it along with the twins' hospital issued birth certificates and mailed one to every company on the list. I hoped we'd hear back from just one company. Looking back, I wish I would have written down everything we got, but when you're battling a two-headed-monster, you're doing good just to perform routine daily functions. I can say though, that we received a 6 container box of formula from 2 major manufacturers and packages of diapers from 3 major producers. We received scads of coupons for baby food, formula, and diapers and oodles of congratulation letters, which you can't necessarily feed to a crying baby, but whatever.

Now, ask me if I kept that list. No don't, because I didn't... Dumb, I know. That said, many companies have 'contact us' buttons on their websites and you can plead your case there, then provide them with any additional paperwork, letters in writing, etc they might need.

So what's the moral to this story? If you (or someone you know) is expecting multiples (may the force be with you) or even just one baby, I suggest contacting baby product companies and tell them you'd like to try their products. The worst you'll do is send email or paper letters. You might just nail some freebies while you're at it!

Happy Mother's Day to my Mom and all my mom friends out there! Save on, friends!