“Then I yelled something that probably shouldn't go on the website,” attendance secretary Mandy Armes said on Humans of Saratoga High last September after realizing she was to have fraternal twins. The post received an overwhelming 422 likes and many comments like “congratulations” and “love you.”
Now, six months later, the twins, Lincoln and Jameson Armes, are already moving around on their own, and Armes is ready to return to work on May 25.
Although she said she has been missing being at school “terribly,” Armes is extremely grateful to have the opportunity to take the time off to care for her boys.
“I feel like the last months have been such a whirlwind,” Armes said. “But getting to stay home with the babies for these first months has been such a blessing, seeing them growing and learning everyday. Becoming a mother has been the most rewarding and hardest experience ever.”
Already, Armes can see different personalities developing in her sons.
“Link is my mover and shaker! He is always wanting to be doing something. He loves bouncing in the bouncer. He can do it for hours!” she said. “Jamie is my thinker. He is always observing and watching. He is also my snuggle bug! He loves to just cuddle.”
Armes believes there is something truly special about being able to see her twins grow up together, and she cannot wait until they “have their own special twin language.”
However, at the same time, she is “looking forward to everything” back at school and misses having “adult conversations” with her fellow co-workers. During her absence, Robert Wise filled in for her.
Many staff members and students, including assistant principal Brian Thompson, are anticipating her return.
“I’m excited that Ms. Armes is coming back,” Thompson said. “I miss her a lot, and really look forward to working with her.”