Jen's favorites, 2010 edition

Following Oprah's example of her Favorite Things episode, I thought I would share some of my favorites from the last part of 2010. I figure it will be an easy way to provide a quick rundown of what we've been up to since we made our big trek down to Texas. Since I won't be giving away a slew of hot products when this is all over I know this bit of news won't ignite a wave of hysterics from all of you like the response Oprah receives from her audience, but I do hope some of these updates will give you a laugh or two.

Favorite #1 - Our new house

I have yet to find one thing that I don't like about our new home, and one of its best features which I've really grown to enjoy is the kitchen. When we were considering the house I remember thinking I would need to step up my game and do the kitchen justice because it looks like a seasoned cook's dream. Just look at the stove. Doesn't it blare, "Please use me to my fullest potential!"

Favorite #2 - Staying home with Braedan
Since the day he was born I have loved every part of it, but I think this stage in his development is one of the best. It's amazing to see how much he is learning and growing day to day. One of his newest skills is pretend play. He'll bring me over to his kitchen and cook for me, then take plates of food over to his table so we can dine and eat. One of his favorite activities is pretending to talk on the phone, and recently I caught him using our coffee table as a desk to "work" on his computer. After deciding to stay home with him a few people have asked if I miss work. All I have to say is, "Wouldn't you prefer to have a boss like this?"
Favorite #3 - Completing my second half marathon

This past November I participated in San Antonio's Rock n Roll Half Marathon, and after completing it I had the same thought as I did last time, "I should have done a full one." I know, I know, that makes me sound crazy, but I'm one of those freaks of nature who enjoys working out. Plus, I need to do some sort of physical activity since eating is another one of my favorite pastimes. Unfortunately, I ran a little slower than my first time around, two minutes to be exact, with an official time of 2:06. One day I hope to complete a full marathon, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. Keeping up with a toddler is a marathon in itself. :) (Please excuse the watermark on these pictures. I was too cheap to purchase the official photos.)

Favorite # 4 - Living in the same state as our family

It's so nice to be a car ride away from our loved ones rather than a plane ride. Braedan and I are quickly accumulating road trip miles having already made four trips to San Antonio and one to Houston. The closer proximity gave us a chance to spend the holidays with both sides of the family.

This first photo is a shot of Braedan with great grandma Napoles. He was showing her how to use his mower.

Favorite #5 - Braedan learning to dance

Favorite #3 describes my awe in watching Braedan grow and change and watching him pick up this particular skill will go down in my memory as one of the cutest and most entertaining. During a visit to San Antonio in December, we attended my uncle's 50th birthday party where there was lots of food, drinks and of course dancing. Like at all typical parties no one wanted to step out and be the first on the dance floor, but luckily Braedan was there with his 14-month old cousin Danica to break the ice and get the party started. (Sorry if it's a little dark. By this point of the party, the lighting was turned down to get people out of their seats.)