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The Dad Diaries

my surrogacy journey to becoming a single dad of twins

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My name is Joseph Tito, I’m a film and television producer that has traveled the world. Last year I decided to become a single father, it hasn’t been easy but the journey has well been worth it. From Jet-Setter to Fatherhood and everything in between, this is my journey. A journey of a single gay man becoming a father of twins!

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thedaddiaries.ca

From Jet-Setter to Fatherhood. My surrogacy journey to becoming a single dad of twins. #singledad | #speaker|#contentcreator | info@thedaddiaries.com

Having to tackle the Canadian weather after spendi

Having to tackle the Canadian weather after spending so much time in the Middle East was really daunting. The extreme cold and harsh winds were nearly impossible to bear for me, but even more uncomfortable and problematic for the girls. [AD] Getting through the winter nights was the biggest challenge. I would wake up in the morning with a blocked nose, congested chest, and the heat on full steam. My skin was intolerably itchy and dry. The twins, too, were aggressively bitten by the cold. I was worried more about the twins than for myself, and so I set out to find miracles that would fix our blocked noses and congested chests. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Two products I live by is the Vicks FilterFree Cool Mist Humidifier and the Braun ThermoScan 7. Believe me when I say this, the nights felt like heaven. Apart from the fact that you can conveniently purchase it on @amazon for $59.99, the humidifier passed all tests and was the PERFECT item I needed to keep my room protected from the dryness of the furnace heat. The best part is it works for at least 15 hours. Before going to bed I put it on full blast and, by the time I woke up, it was still working—and working well. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
So, after getting the blissful Vicks FilterFree Cool Mist Humidifier, the twins and I woke up having a good nights’ sleep with no breathing discomfort in the mornings. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The second must have is the Braun ThermoScan7 Thermometer. It’s considered to be the benchmark for accuracy. Thanks to its wide-angle probe, The ThermoScan 7 is designed to give accurate measurements for the entire family, including the small ear canal of a newborn. It’s the only thermometer that pre-warms the tip to 34 degrees Celsius to achieve professional accuracy and provide extra comfort. It’s fast, easy and gentle to use and with twins that is one of the most important things for me. It also comes with disposable probe covers that help prevent the spreading of germs another super important thing for me because one sick baby is hard enough. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
What do you guys use to get you through our Canadian winters?
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#canadianwinters #fluseason #flu #health #coldandflu #wellness #cold #germs #stayhealthy

This trip with @MercedesBenzCanada to Gimli, Manit

This trip with @MercedesBenzCanada to Gimli, Manitoba was spectacular. Having been away from the Canadian winters for so long, I always get a little scared when it starts to snow. But after test driving these cars on ice and in the snow, I can truly say that they handle amazingly well in full-on Canadian winters. I’m seriously considering a Mercedes for my next car. They are sleek, sexy, and really roomy, which is perfect for me and the girls. Do any of you drive Mercedes? If so, which one? And if not, what vehicle do you trust to get you and your kids safely through our snow- and ice-filled Canadian winters? *ad
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#MBownstheice #MBGarageGigs #Campiagn #canadianwinter #safetyfirst #carsofinstagram #luxuory #sexycars #offroading #drifting #manitoba

There is no worse feeling than when your baby is s

There is no worse feeling than when your baby is sick. It breaks your heart when you know that a good blow out of their nose will help, but they don’t know how. I thought I knew what all their different cries and expressions of frustration meant, but “I don’t feel well” cries are gut wrenching because there’s nothing you can do to help them understand that they’ll be better soon. With twins, it’s a sure two-for-one deal that if one gets sick, the other will as well. Just after the holidays, Mia got a cold; Stella quickly caught it. Then I caught it from Stella, and that left Mia vulnerable to round 2 of being ill without even a little break to catch her snotty breath. Hugs is the best medicine I have for them. What do you do when your little ones are fighting phlegm, coughs, and just trying to breathe?
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#coldandflu #coldseason #winterfun #parenthood #parentingmoments #singledadlife #singledad #gaydads #fatherhoodunplugged #parenthoodunplugged #thedaddiaries #titotwins #fatherhood #dadlife #fatherhoodislit #fatherhoodlooksgoodonyou #fathersmatter #proudfather #prouddadmoment #gaydads #gayfathers

January has been so dull. This damp, gloomy weathe

January has been so dull. This damp, gloomy weather is making me think about travelling. As the next best thing, in my mind, I’ve been going back to my happy place whenever the cold or snow start bringing me down. Have a look at why my happy place is so memorable and so good for the soul: My review is up for @breathlessresorts in #puntacana. If you are thinking about a quick getaway to recharge, I'd recommend this resort. Super fast to get to, great weather, the sound of the ocean, some great food, fun options if you want to participate in different experiences. Have your fill of rest and relaxation and memories of what will surely become your happy place, too. Please read my review and let me know what you think, link in bio.
So where to next? Where do you guys think I should go? .
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#BreathlessPuntaCana #BetterAtBreathless #travel #travelphotography #travelgram #instatravel #instagood #trip #travelblogger #adventure #traveling #vacation #picoftheday #travelling #explore #thedaddiaries #traveler #travelawesome #traveller #travelers #travelblog #travelingtheworld #travelguide #travelblogger #traveldiaries #travel_captures #travellingthroughtheworld #traveltheworld #traveladdict

I have a question. When did your children start wa

I have a question. When did your children start walking? The girls will be 14 months at the end of the month, and I'm still not quite sure when they should be walking. I have mixed feelings about them walking. On the one hand, I'm excited for them to start, but on the other, it means that my babies are growing up. I don't know if life will be easier once they start walking? They are already crawling in different directions, but I can still manage to keep my eye on both of them or intercept a “crawl away” as needed. What happens when they start to walk or (God help me) run?!?!
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#milestones #titotwins #thedaddiaries #babywalking #babymilestones #babymilestone #babiesofinstagram #dadlife #parenthood #fatherhood #gaydads #gaydad #singledad #fatherofdaughters #singledadlife #toysfortots #toydiscovery

A couple of months back, I asked you guys to ident

A couple of months back, I asked you guys to identify some men’s rooms where you thought a change table was needed and should be installed. Well, @pamperscanada and I heard you, and over the holidays, I headed to Trisan Centre in Schomberg to install one. I'm not very handy so I was a little nervous, but in the end, I had so much fun. I just feel so honoured to be part of the #lovethechange campaign. So far, they have provided over 1,000 change tables in men’s restrooms across North America and will be reaching 5,000 by 2021. This is a huge step forward for dads, granddads, uncles, and other males who are caregivers for babies. Huge props to Pampers for making a change! Let’s continue the love by commenting below and letting me know where you’d like your next change table installed. #ad
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#freeof #Pamperspartner #thedaddiaries #titotwins #singledad #singledadlife #dadoftwins #canadiandads #parenting #dadblogger #singlefather #dadsofinsta #journeytofatherhood #twindad #torontoblogger #surrogacy #fatherhoodunplugged #prouddad #dadlife #fatherhoodthroughinstagram #surrogacyjourney #gayswithkids #twins #twinsofinstagram #gaydads

With the new year upon us, a lot of us set new res

With the new year upon us, a lot of us set new resolutions. Health and fitness are probably on top of most of our lists. Last year for me was a very transformational year. I've had to adjust to being a parent, which lead to putting myself on the back burner. Becoming a parent has really made me put things in perspective, to have a 6-pack or a v shape no longer became a priority. But I've found that not having a fitness routine really has gotten to me. My energy level dropped dramatically, my self-confidence lowered and none of my clothing fit. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I want to be a role model for my girls and I want to teach them that living a healthy lifestyle is important. That is why this year I plan to get back on track. I'm excited to start personal training with @inklein.fitness. I will be doing a one month challenge and will be taking you along for the ride. we will be going through nutrition, supplements and training. For those of you that have health and fitness on your resolution list, what are you planning to do?
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#menshealth #fitness #womenshealth #health #wellness #mensfitness #workout #gym #fitnessmotivation #mensfashion #motivation #men #mentalhealth #bodybuilding #instagood #mensstyle #mensphysique #fitfam #mentalhealthawareness #personaltrainer #gymlife #mensgrooming #aesthetics #healthylifestyle #thedadiaries

I have some exciting news to share! I'd like to in

I have some exciting news to share! I'd like to introduce you to my new baby--NO! not a real baby Seriously, two is enough (for now anyway :) I have developed a clothing line, dedicated to the two little loves of my life: Love, By Mia&Stella. ❤️ I hope you will see something that reminds you of the Love that makes our family, and yours. Maybe it's just a reminder that says "Mia&Stella" or "Papa loves me." Or how about a message that screams it, "YASSS Queen." You can even customize your own personal message of Love. Go to link in Bio. Be Love. Show Love. Wear Love. Available for infants, toddlers, and adults--because Love comes in all sizes. 🌈
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#lgbtqfamily #lovemakesafamily #babyproducts #shop #merchandise #merch #souvenir #tshirt #souvenirmurah #clothing #fashion #design #merchandising #pin #like #thedaddiaries #titotwins #yesqueen #gaydad #gaydads #gaylife #rainbow #equality #gaystagram #instagood #genderfluid #gayguy #lgbtcommunity #fashion

New hurdle and advice needed: Mia and Stella are f

New hurdle and advice needed: Mia and Stella are finding their voices—or should I say, they have FOUND their very LOUD voices. At 13 months my two little ladies decided together (and I think they did so secretly and purposefully) to start screaming. ALL. DAY. SCREAMING!!! I know they are frustrated because they can't communicate. Be patient, I tell myself. I understand that this is a phase and it, too, shall pass. But when you are living/hearing it all day, the continuous frustration volume can get to you. These are the little things you don't hear a lot about when planning to have a baby. Don't get me wrong, I'm really not complaining, this is what I wanted and chose but after an all-day scream fest, this papa is ready to call it quits. All you parents out there, if you remember, how long did this phase last? Please, do you have any advice besides “this too shall pass”?
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#dailyparenting #fatherhood #dadlife #parenting #letthembelittle #fatherhoodunplugged #childhoodunplugged #parenthood #candidchildhood #mumlife #motherhoodrising #honestparenthood #babies #fatherhoodthroughinstagram #uniteinmotherhood #moments #thehappynow #dadsofinstagram #littleandbrave #dadblogger#mytinymoments #parentingtips #toddlerlife #gaydads #gaydad #singledad #thedaddiaries #titotwins

Looking back at this past year, so much has happen

Looking back at this past year, so much has happened. I complained a lot, I didn't sleep very much, and I learned...and learned, and learned! But at the end of the day, I still can't believe these 2 little humans are my daughters. I forget at times just how incredibly blessed I am to have them in my life. So as I look back at 2019, I am grateful for all my accomplishments, all my mistakes, all the people I have lost, and, most importantly, all the people in my life that support me and love me for me. I want to wish all of you an amazing New Year. 2020 here we come!! .
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#newyear #newbeginnings #thedaddiaries #titotwins #gratefuleveryday #lookingback #singledad #gaydads #gaydad #lgbtq #lovemakesafamily #twinsofintagram #parentingrealities #SingleFather #singlefathers #singlefatherlife #SingleFatherHustle #gayswithkids #gaydadsofinstagram #lgbtqfamily #proudfamily #fatherhoodinspired #fatherhood #iamdad

Mia is mini me. I can see how similar we are and i

Mia is mini me. I can see how similar we are and it kinda scares me, lol! She is definitely set in her ways and is a force to be reckoned with. Although she was born at just 4 lbs, she caught up with her sister quickly. In Italian, we say she’s 'furba.’ She already knows what she should and should not be doing and is constantly testing me. I can see her mind working. Some times she chooses “wrong” just for the reaction and laughs her head off. That really scares me because alone they are showing me their brilliance, but together?? God help me LOL! Mia’s fierce determination becomes clearer every day and she is constantly amazing me with her budding personality, curiosity, social skills, and sense of humor. I don’t worry because it reinforces what I know: that she will easily hold her own one day. Although a little moodier than Stella, Mia’s a cuddle bug and no matter what she wants to be with her Papa. I’m so curious to see how their relationship will blossom and how they will be as women.
Photos by: @picturethisportraits .
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#thedaddiaries #titotwins #prouddad #singlefather #singlegaydad #gaydads #gayfather #fatheroftwins #fatherofdaughters #fathersmatter #proudfather #prouddad #betterdads #iamdad #fatherhoodislife #parenthood #countyourblessings
#thankfulness #gratitude #gayparents #gaydad #instagay #gayfather #gaydadsrock #parenthood #lovemakesafamily

It is crazy to see how different my two little lad

It is crazy to see how different my two little ladies are. Stella is one of the most positive souls I've met. She definitely takes after my mom. Every morning when I open their door, she is all smiles. She's so independent that at times I get a little sad because I feel she doesn't need me. She's a sensitive soul and observes everything. We can repeat something a couple of times and within days she knows what we are saying. I often wonder what kind of women they will grow up to be. I feel Stella will be studious and contemplative. Who knows? For the parents that have older children, did you know what they would be like from a young age?
Photo by: @picturethisportraits .
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#thedaddiaries #titotwins #prouddad #singlefather #singlegaydad #gaydads #gayfather #fatheroftwins #fatherofdaughters #fathersmatter #proudfather #prouddad #betterdads #iamdad #fatherhoodislife #parenthood

THERE ARE ONLY 7 DAYS UNTIL XMAS! [AD] How did thi

THERE ARE ONLY 7 DAYS UNTIL XMAS! [AD] How did this happen? I can’t blame the girls this time. This is my pattern. It gets tougher and tougher every year. No one wants their presents to end up in the dreaded “worst gifts” pile, wilting away in a cupboard or being resold or exchanged immediately. And we don’t want to receive gifts that we don’t like or need either. We want our loved ones to “get us” and we are more conscious than ever about wasteful consumption. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
And then I saw the answer: Shopping.ca gift cards! These gift cards allow you to shop at @oshawacentre, but also at @vaughan_mills, @ocniagara, @bayshoreottawa, @mapleviewcentre and @conestogamall. Plus, if your loved ones live away from you, there are 16 other locations in Canada where they can shop using their gift card! How amazing! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
You can buy them online (yay convenience) and in-store for gift amounts between $25 and $1000. I’ll be giving—and hope to get—these as gifts. NO MORE REGIFTING, NO MORE RETURNS. Yeah, dear loved ones, I get you and I got you—exactly what it is you want. Click the link in bio to learn more about the shopping.ca gift cards!
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#ShoppingCA #NoChristmasFail #ChristmasOops #christmasshopping #giftcard

Those of you who knew me before the girls were bor

Those of you who knew me before the girls were born know that I loved to travel. Well, that hasn’t changed just because I have kids. [AD] This week I was invited to travel and attend a @victorinoxswissarmy event. Wowza! I was blown away by the amazing products they have. I've already adapted their Altmont Active Lightweight Compact Backpack for use as a diaper bag. When you are carrying 2 humans it’s important to have an extremely lightweight and durable bag—one that can take you through your urban to outdoor travel adventures. It has compression-moulded back panels and airflow-supporting shoulder straps, that together are a combination delivering maximum comfort during extended wear. And let's face it, for all you parents out there, our diaper bag becomes a part of us. Take some time to check out their website because not only do they carry amazing travel gear, but they also carry knives, cutlery, watches, and fragrances that would make amazing Christmas gifts.
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#MyVictorinox #wanderlust #adventureseeker #doyoutravel #travelmore #goexplore #wonderfulplaces #openmyworld #lovetotravel #adventurethatislife #roamtheplanet #travelbloggers #travelblogging #thattravelblog #bloggerlife #bloggerslife #travellifestyle #digitalnomads #workandtravel #nomadiclife #locationindependent #giftideas #greatgifts #titotwins #thedaddiaries

For all you single parents out there, how is your

"O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree.." [AD] The lo

"O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree.." [AD] The look in their eyes when they saw their first Christmas tree at home was priceless. I love re-living all these special moments through their eyes. When I saw them in these dresses by @tieandtiara I almost cried! The dresses are so beautiful and the girls look so grown up. They look like little ladies and, although a part of me is happy that they are growing, another part of me wants to keep them to stay just as they are. Merry Christmas from the #titotwins.

Dresses by @tieandtiara
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#tieandtiara #merrychristmas #christmastree #christmasphoto #fatherhoodunplugged #prouddad #dadlife #fatherhoodthroughinstagram #twins #twinsofinstagram #twinfluencers #twinlife #babiesofinstagram #parentsofinstagram #thedaddiaries

I haven't been in Canada for an entire winter in a

I haven't been in Canada for an entire winter in a long time, and I'm finding it hard being motivated to do anything. I know I have to suck it up. I don't want the girls to hate winter. One of my followers wrote me something she and her mom used to do. They used to walk to a coffee shop, get some hot chocolate, and have it on the walk home. They would talk about the things they saw on the walk and the beauty of winter. She went on to say that those were some of her fondest childhood memories, and because of those walks she loves winter. I love that, so I'm going to try to do the same thing. Maybe by changing my perception of winter, I might learn to at least appreciate it. I want to hear from you. What are some of your favourite winter moments?

Bumprider Connect Stroller provide by: @elfejuvenileproducts .
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#elfejuvenileproducts #bumprider #bumpriderconnect #whitechristmas #snowglobe #landscape #winterfashion #winterwonderland #snow #titotwins #thedaddiaries #makingmemories #wintertime #winterfun

A year ago today my life completely changed. I rem

A year ago today my life completely changed. I remember jumping in a tuk-tuk with my mom and best friend, yelling at the driver to just get to the hospital. When I saw them for the first time, I couldn't believe they were mine.
To Stella and Mia,
The day you were born, my life changed. I never knew a love so fierce as the love I felt for you the moment you were placed on my chest. In an instant, I knew that I wanted to protect you from the evils of the world and teach you how to be strong independent women.
Stella, from when you took your first smile you had this ability to light up the room. Your positivity at such a young age is heart warming. Mia, the depth that is in your eyes right from day one is astonishing. You have the ability to look into someone’s soul and your intuition is incredible.
You've both taught me patience and made me realize that everything is possible. I wish you the happiest of birthdays and know that I will always be there watching over you. You both are my life and I couldn't picture it being any other way.
Always remember 3 things: ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. Being opinionated is not a bad quality to possess. I already see your opinions shining through and I encourage them.
2. Find a mentor that will inspire you. Life is too short to be hanging around people who pull you down.
3. Be confident and speak your truth. What you have to say and offer this world matters.
I love you both with all my heart and soul. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ -Papa

One of the things I miss most about life before ki

One of the things I miss most about life before kids is traveling. I was fortunate to travel a lot. Traveling allows you to learn so much, not just about the world around us but also about yourself. @breathlessresorts was the perfect place to have my 3-day getaway. The resort is adults-only and offers a party atmosphere if that’s what you want, but also relaxation and quietness which I desperately needed. That is why it is so important to trust your travel agent. They should be able to offer exactly what you need and @powertravel.ca did just that. Clara knew exactly what I needed and I'm excited for her to book my next vacation with the girls! So what did I learn this trip? That I am happy with my life, that yes I may be alone but I have two happy and healthy angels that mean everything to me. As I'm sad that I leave tomorrow, I also can't help but smile thinking about what I'm going home to. .
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#BreathlessPuntaCana #BetterAtBreathless #sponspored #travel #travelphotography #travelgram #instatravel #instagood #trip #travelblogger #adventure #traveling #vacation #picoftheday #travelling #explore #thedaddiaries #traveler #travelawesome #traveller #travelers #travelblog #travelingtheworld #travelguide #travelblogger #traveldiaries #travel_captures #travellingthroughtheworld #traveltheworld #traveladdict

Parent guilt is real. As I spend the day trying to

Parent guilt is real. As I spend the day trying to be present in the moment, I can't help but think of the girls. I got a lot of DMs about #parentguilt and yes, I do feel it. But sometimes we have to let go and take care of ourselves. I know that after a year it is healthy for me to get away and unplug. We all need to. Rechargimg my batteries can only bring the best me to my babies, right? As they say, put the oxygen mask on yourself first. With that, tomorrow is my last full day at the @breathlessresorts in Punta Cana. As it comes to an end, so does the guilt. It was exactly what the doctor ordered. Thank you @powertravel.ca for this experience.
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#BreathlessPuntaCana #BetterAtBreathless #sponspored #travel #travelphotography #travelgram #instatravel #instagood #trip #travelblogger #adventure #traveling #vacation #picoftheday #travelling #explore #thedaddiaries #traveler #travelawesome #traveller #travelers #travelblog #travelingtheworld #travelguide #travelblogger #traveldiaries #travel_captures #travellingthroughtheworld #traveltheworld #traveladdict

Got Milk? So as the girls are approaching one, whi

Got Milk? So as the girls are approaching one, which I still can't believe, my mom and I find ourselves in constant conversation about milk: cow or goat? I personally can't drink cow's milk and thought I would have the girls drink goat’s milk. I read goat’s milk is the closest thing to human milk. My mom says that there is cow’s milk in a lot of products on the market, so it would be best to give them cow’s milk. The girls seem to be okay on cow’s milk and they are growing beautifully. So I guess stick with the moo? What do you guys think? What did you give your kids? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
phots by: @picturethisportraits .
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#gotmilk #freshmilk #goatsmilk #cowsmilk #breastfeeding #breastmilk #motherhood #breastpump #pregnancy #milkbooster #lactation #titotwins #thedaddiaries #thelittlethings #fatherhood #dadlife #letthembelittle #dailyparenting #magicofchildhood #babiesofinstagram #candidchildhood #babygram #pixelkids #simplychildren #childhoodunplugged #lifestyleblog #childhoodeveryday

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