In all my diva-ness (ha!), when it came to pack my hospital bag I took it very literally when told, ”bring everything you need to be comfortable” (Hey! It’s what the hospital told me to do!). I had two bags, one for mommy & daddy, and one for baby. It may have seemed like “a lot”, but I am very glad I brought everything that I did. Below is my list of “must-haves” for your delivery and hospital stay with your new baby!
In my Blue Gownie (November 2009)
In my Pink Gownie (October 2010)
For Gregory’s 1st birthday party, I wanted to take advantage of our backyard (which we were seemingly using more and more as our little guy was becoming more mobile) as well as the autumn weather setting in (if you could call it that, since South Florida rarely seems to notice any seasonal changes). I brainstormed on all the different themes I could incorporate with an outdoor party. I wanted something that would be enjoyable for both adults and children. I didn’t have many toddlers on my guest list, however, I wanted Gregory to be able to enjoy his party (even if he would only remember it through pictures).
Being a big fan of nursery rhymes, I decided on Old MacDonald had a Farm.
And so, the planning began…
Did I mention, I was NINE months pregnant for this party? Our daughter was born only 9 days later!
Cookin' my little chick & party planning! 
As with any occasion, we marked Gregory’s first birthday (and party) with a photoshoot with our dear friend and photographer Melissa Rivera, of Love Bug Photography.
Welcome to Sparkles & Dirt!
My name is April, and I am a mother to two beautiful children Gregory (20 months) and Meadow (9 months). I am a stay-at-home mom, and my family is the center of my universe. I have enjoyed the many milestones we have achieved as a family, and have worked hard to make these moments as memorable and special as possible. It hasn’t been without a few hiccups or wrong turns along the way, but this new learning game of parenthood has been an incredible journey. I decided to start a blog to share with my many friends tips, recipes, ideas, and helpful tid-bits that I am finding along the way. This blog is open to everyone, but especially to moms who are trying to find a new recipe that their kids will actually eat, wanting new crafts and activities to do with their families, and planning the perfect party! I chose the name sparkles and dirt because I have the best of both worlds – my tough, dare-devil all American boy and my delicate, soft and sweet little girl. Our days are filled with a little bit of dirt and a dash of sparkle.
