Here I am walking through the shopping center. It’s been a long day and we are all tired and grumpy. But as I drag the kids past one of our favorite kids clothing shops, I happen to see those magical words…

“Buy one get the other half price.”

My eyes light up at the prospect. Surely this deal was made for me and all mothers of twins out there. Surely this little bargain is here just to help me get through the horror that is shopping for twins.

But be warned-as tempting as that bargain is, it is really just a sneaky marketing ploy to tempt you  into the shop.

It’s a lure to make you take a look at those lovely tops with the flowers on them.  A trap that makes you dare to ask your kids  if they like those tops.  Soon your shocked pleasure at the fact that both you and the children actually agree on an appropriate piece of clothing to buy will quickly turn to frustration, anger and finally tears (yours or the children’s) when you realize there is only ONE in the size you need.

One.

There is always only one size 6 when I need two.

There is always only one size 6 when I need two. One pair of pink diamond shoes when I need two. One twirly skirt when I need two. One pair of monkey pajamas when I need two.

Yes I need two, sales lady. Two, in the exact same size. Don’t look at me like I am insane. Take a look at my children… yes these two here that are whining and crying and snatching at the shirt with the flowers proclaiming “Mine, I want it, it’s mine!” Does that give you any clue as to why I need two????

And so another shopping trip ends. The children and I trudge back into the day light of the real world, still crying about the bargain lost.

photo by LuLu Vision