Annika is 2 years old! She had a great birthday, complete with a little party and her first taste of cake. The backyard-neighbor-girls, Anna and Demi, came over along with their mom. Also, her babysitter, Lauren, and her friend, Kathy, came to the party. I went a little nuts with streamers all over the dining room, and we had Pooh tablecloths, napkins, plates, you get the idea... Of course, the hit of the party was the big Pooh mylar ballon from our local grocery store. She had been eyeing that thing for the past several weeks with obvious longing. She was so happy to finally have it that she kept giving it kisses! She also had a wonderful time playing with Anna and Demi, especially as she still has so little exposure to other children. Believe me when I say that this is not from lack of trying on our part, but it does seem that everyone in town has been hit with some sort of cold lately. Anyway, she had a good time opening presents, but really she was more into the joy of playing with the other kids and, of course, the beloved babysitter, Lauren. We were curious how she would react to cake, as she's never had it before. The expression when she put it in her mouth was priceless! First she was very cautious, and chewing very very slowly as if it might turn sour at any moment. Finally she decided it was safe, and gave a big smile. However, she only ate one more bite and that was it for her. Honestly, I think she was too excited to care much about the rare treat of a sticky sweet. She also loved it when we all sang Happy Birthday to her. Again, I wish I could have bottled that look of wonder she had on her face as everyone in the room sang to her! It was especially nice, as music is her latest love, and she wants me singing to her all the time.