Happy 1st Birthday Noor Alya

Abang Zain proudly wanted to help with arranging the birthday jelly (allergies = no dairy)


"I have to bring Alya her Birthday cake," said a proud big brother


A bemused birthday girl


Parents looking slightly tired after a swim, countless bottles, diaper changes etc


Really pretty things, although they don't taste as good as they look


Birthday girl gets a taste




And the rest, they say is history


We took the short plane ride to KL, in a desperate attempt to get out of starting 2010 slogging in the office. So we packed the 6-or-so bags, a whole pantry, 4 litres of diamond water, a pram, a tricycle and a helmet into the car which Abah and Hafiz drove up, so we could still have the convenience of private wheels in KL.

We stayed at the glorious Royale Chulan in what turned out to be one of the best hotel stays we've had.

On 8 January, my beautiful Alya turned 1! She's a bounding handful now, her steps still slightly wobbly, but she's bent on touching and tasting everything. She says mama to get my attention, and is always armed with a brilliant smile. Alya says her name with such clarity, waves bye bye and gives the sweetest albeit wettest kisses.

Noor Alya, you've been nothing but a joy to have around. I love the way you're so tough, weathering all of Abang's playful gnaws and blows. I love the way you fight for what you believe is right, such as claiming ownership to your drinking straw. I love you cheeky streak, we all know where that comes from. You're beautiful, and brilliant and gorgeous.

Happy Birthday sweet Noor Alya.

Mama loves you more than you know.