"So, are they sleeping through the night?"

My least favorite question.  The most frequently asked question (after the whole "are they identical" nonsense).

The thing is, N & C are pretty good sleepers.*  But the other thing is, every time I get asked The Question and admit that they are pretty good sleepers*, the universe laughs at me and N & C proceed to have at least 2 horrible nights, but usually more.  Every. time.  It doesn't matter how hard I try to acknowledge the Sleep Powers That Be with my responses: "well, for right now, they are sleeping through the night, yes, but you know, that could change at any moment" or "For now, yes they're sleeping great but we're on the cusp of some milestones so that could change at any moment".  I try so hard to be appropriately grateful and appreciative so that maybe, the pattern will break.  Never works.  Never.  Without fail crappy sleep immediately follows being asked The Question.

Some one asked The Question on Sunday.  It's been pretty rough over here since Sunday night.  I'm tired and cranky.  Do you think the Sleep Powers That Be want me to start lying?  Because I will if that's what it takes. 

In the midst of this wonky sleep stretch, I decided it was a great time to finally start calling around to start the day care search.  Infant care is pretty hard to find.  But is it really necessary to laugh when I say "Hi, I was calling to inquire about day care.  I have 9 month old twins."  Because I could do without the laughter.  It's not helping my crankiness.

That's all for now - I've got to turn in early as who knows what's in store for tonight.

*MAJOR DISCLAIMER: I understand that their sleep habits can change on a dime and I am prepared for every thing to go to shit at any moment.  Constant vigilance in expecting horrible nights is key.

Comments

[Nico]

If only there were a way to gracefully duck answering! Sorry you've had a rough couple of days.

The daycare people should know it's just mean to laugh! What timeframe are you looking for?

[Jenn]

I hated that question too because even if you say no, then people look at you like you must be doing something wrong. But at least you get some sympathy.

[Kath]

Dear Lori, is just screaming when you hear "Are they slee-" an option? Or obvious distraction maneuvers ("Hey, look! A praying mantis!")? Otherwise, I have no bleeding idea -- it's sort of a reflex question to ask new parents, isn't it? I would guess particularly so with twins. I hope the jinx lifts soon...

As for the laughing, that's just cruel. Jeez.

[Lut C.]

You could tell them just that, whenever someone asks that question they don't sleep well. :-)

[steph]

Lying might work. I have a crummy sleeper and any time I get asked that question and I tell the person how often he wakes up, we wind up having a great night of sleep!

[Michelle]

Oh no! Our DD sleeps pretty well through the night as well, but refuses to nap during the day...at least not when people are around. So she always appears super cranky. Oh well. Can you just answer by saying it varies from day to day, and leave it at that?

[Flicka]

I would see if lying works. Because honestly, it's all about what gives you the most sleep.

[waiting line]

I admit, I would probably lie. I know people mean well but sometimes I'd just say whatever will make them shut up faster. :-)

[soralis]

I am all for the lying too.. hey whatever works! :) I didn't get that question when my boys were small, the one that go me was 'Are they walking yet?'. When I said no then they followed up with 'Why?'.

Good luck, it seems like the questions just keep coming as they get older so good luck! :)

[Stacie]

"They sleep like babies" with a sweet smile on your face.

Or, look desperate and laugh.