Saturday we had a big family reunion for Grandpa Dan's family. All 14 of the brothers and sisters were there and most of the cousins were too. Annika had a great time. The reunion was at a park so there was a playground, covered picnic area, ball field, etc. Annika spent the day walking, walking and more walking around the park, with someone following her to make sure she didn't get in trouble. She also played with the small rocks cushioning the play area. And by play, I mean eat. We were constantly fishing rocks out of her hands and mouth. She did ride on the swings, the merry-go-round and the rocking horse though and thought they were all great. There were other little kids at the reunion so she had fun playing with them too. She even had her first kiss! My 2nd cousin's child, Caleb, just turned one. He came over to Annika, grabbed both sides of her head, leaned in and planted a kiss right on Annika's mouth. It was hilarious. Then, Caleb's older sisters, Ann & Beth, who are 2 1/2 year old twins thought that was a fun new game so they came over and kept giving Annika kisses. We finally had to break that little game up as Annika was being swarmed with kids and kisses.

That night, Kris, Annika and I headed to the Vixen's first home game of the season. They lost, but it was still fun to see everyone again.

Sunday Kris finished the last of the ceramic tile work. I'm sure he's very happy to be done with that job. While he was doing that, Annika and I went to Brianna's 1st birthday party. It was a fun afternoon although Annika did want to help unwrap Brianna's presents. She was getting tired by that point and when I'd take her away from the presents and try to distract her with other toys, she'd throw a fit. She's arch her back and scream as I picked her up. Ah, the joy of my life. :)

Annika is learning more and more each day. She now likes to give things to people. She'll pick up toys and bring them to you. Then she'll take them back before giving them to you again. She also is learning to go down the stairs. She thinks she's a big person and can walk down them so you still have to sit her down and then she'll scoot down on her butt. You still have to watch per pretty carefully though as she does still stumble from time to time. She fell of the bottom stair Sunday night and hit her head on the baseboard. She didn't break the skin but she did get a nasty white welt. It's all gone now and didn't even bruise. She's one tough kid I guess.

We don't have much planned for this week. I can't believe it's August already!