Two Under Two: Preparing for Baby… After Baby

July 14th, 2025

Both times, it wasn’t pink lines.

It was the word pregnant staring back at me.

The first time, it felt like a long-awaited promise fulfilled—my daughter, Anastasia. And now, just months later, I saw that same word again. No second-guessing. I scheduled an appointment with my OB-GYN, and the nurse confirmed what I already felt in my spirit:

I’m pregnant again.

This new baby is due just one month before Anastasia’s first birthday. That means we’re expecting two under two—a pair of sweet souls born in the same year. Some people call it Irish twins, a term historically used to describe siblings born within 12 months of each other. Though the phrase once carried judgment, especially toward Irish Catholic families, I don’t receive it that way. For me, there’s no shame—only purpose, surprise, and sacred timing.

And honestly? I’m not worried. I’m excited—purely, joyfully excited.

I know the newborn stage is demanding, but this time around I feel prepared, not panicked. With the wisdom I’ve gained from my first baby, I’m entering this new season with strategy, grace, and peace.

If you're preparing for another baby soon after your first—or just want to make your life easier for future little ones—here’s how I’m getting ready. I’ll also be sharing links to the items I’m investing in so you can shop smart and stress less.

1. Start Neutral From the Start

One of the best decisions I made was choosing gender-neutral baby gear. It’s practical, cost-effective, and easy to pass down. Plus, everything looks cohesive and calming when you’re not juggling clashing prints and colors.

Go neutral with big-ticket items like:

• Crib sheets

• Swaddle blankets and sleep sacks

• Stroller and car seat

• High chair

• Play gym and tummy time mats

• Pack n' Play

  
  

It’s not about minimalism—it’s about function. The goal is re-usability, not rebranding everything for a different baby.

2. Re-wear and Reuse Without Shame

Most of the time, we were home. No big outings, no need for tiny tuxedos or frilly dresses.

What we used most:

• Soft zip-up sleepers

• Onesies

• Simple gowns with mitten cuffs

  
  

And guess what? I’ll be using those same pieces again. Let’s normalize passing things down, reusing baby gear, and celebrating what’s practical over what’s trendy.

3. Skip the Extras—Focus on Essentials

The second time around, I’m cutting the fluff. If I didn’t use it the first time, I’m not keeping it the second.

What I didn’t need:

• Fancy milestone outfits

• Too many newborn-sized clothes

  
  

What I can’t live without:

• A quality sound machine

• Swaddles

• My nursing pillow

• Wearable breast pump

• Anti-colic baby bottles

• Heating pad for baby

• Gas relief medicine

• DIAPERS and WIPES (always and forever)

• The “donut” pillow (lifesaver for naps)

• Changing pad + table

• Diaper caddy

• Pack n’ Play

• Rotating car seat

  • and Taxi

• Stroller combo

• Car/ Stroller seat fan

  
  

I’ve linked all the updated versions of these products I’ve loved—or ones I’m newly investing in—so you can make confident purchases without the guesswork.

4. Photos Don’t Need Props—Just Presence

Some of my favorite photos are the most simple: A wrap, a window, a sleepy baby on my chest.

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect setup. You just need love, connection, and light. That’s the beauty people want to see—and what your heart will remember most.

5. Your Experience is a Strength, Not a Setback

You’ve already been through the fire. You already know how to hold space for exhaustion and joy at the same time.

This time around, there’s less panic and more peace. You move with instinct, not just information. You’re no longer just a new mom—you’re a growing one. And your experience? It’s your power.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re facing two under two, take a deep breath—you are not behind. You’re being entrusted with more. Yes, it's fast. Yes, it's stretching. But it’s also full of purpose.

Whether you call it Irish twins or a double blessing, don’t let anyone’s opinions dim your joy. This is sacred. This is possible. And this is yours.

Reuse what you can. Prepare what you must. Rest when you need to. You already have more wisdom and strength than you know.

And mama—you’re going to thrive.

💛 Thanks for being here. If you're walking a similar path or just cheering from the sidelines, I’d love to have you along for the journey. I’ll be sharing links to my favorite baby products and prep lists in the next post. Subscribe or leave a comment below so we can grow through this season together—hand in hand, heart to heart.