First tooth, first trip, first steps, first birthday!

I know it has been a ghost town here on the blogosphere for a few months, but that does not mean that things have been dull here in the Roobosphere! Quite the contrary -- Mama and Papa Morris have had a hard time finding an extra minute now that the Roobs is quickly rounding in on toddlerhood. The days have found Roobs more active and entertaining than ever, with many new tricks and talents, as well as a few stamps in her passport and a new tooth in her mouth.



That's right, our little Asha Sweet joins the ranks of the dentally-endowed and can flash her own pearly-white for cameras and grandmas everywhere. After months of drool and predictions, the tooth finally emerged sans tears or trauma while we were in England. Hopefully the fact that her first tooth was bestowed by a English Tooth Fairy is not an indication that Asha will one day sport a mouth of famous British chompers (crooked ones, that is). But then again, we can just take a look at Mama Morris' old photos to know that Roobs probably has a tin-grin in her future...

England, you say old chap? That's right -- Asha Ruby is now a world traveler, and a world-class traveler at that! Asha joined Mama, Papa, Gama and G-Pers for a trip to England for her first Summer Festival. Asha loved all of the social interaction of our trip, and she spent a lot of time telling us stories in her baby language ("yaya dido dadi mama") and pointing at all of the exciting objects and people she spotted of interest. Asha was a joy to travel with, and loved spending so much time with the Creepers.



Just when Mama and Papa were adjusting to life back at home after more than two weeks away, Asha Ruby decided that it was time to learn a few new tricks and started to take her first steps! Mama and Papa were so excited to see those first attempts at walking, and even more excited to see how tickled and delighted the Roobs was in her accomplishment. She has also been learning a few things about climbing, such as mastering getting off the bed safely (whew!), climbing the stairs as well as climbing on and off of her activity table at increasingly frequent intervals.



Last but not least, Asha Ruby celebrated her first birthday a few days early with a family birthday party. Asha appears to be a born party girl, and loved being the center of attention and love. Being the first in her new generation in the family, Asha was lavished with love and presents from all of her grandparents, aunts and uncles. Asha was in great spirits and greeted each guest with a smile and each gift with a squeal.



Mama and Papa can't believe that we have already known the sweet Roobs for a whole year! It has been a year full of joy and change, triumphs and challenges. Parenting has taught us more about love and life than anything we have encountered so far. We are constantly filled with gratitude and wonder that we are able to share our life with the sweet being that is Asha Ruby. We couldn't imagine a more delightful one year old!