tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43992277936040074852024-03-05T12:10:28.014-08:00The Devescovi'sA home of pink, finally invaded by blue! A look at life as a mom to 3 girls and a boy.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.comBlogger280125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-32127589192041580532011-11-09T12:20:00.000-08:002011-11-09T12:35:48.157-08:00Exhaustion and Nausea and Bloating, Oh My!You guessed it. We are expecting our 6th and absolute final baby. Haha, I know we have said this before, but this time I am SERIOUS! I never saw myself as a mom to so many children. It wasn't what I set out to do and truth be told, we had decided to stop. I had an appointment coming up next Monday to determine our next step. Well, we were just a little too late. I am not sure how far along I am because I was nursing Alaina, our 11 month old and I have not had a post-partum cyle as of yet. If I had to guess I would say between 6 and 8 weeks. My first appointment will be December 5th and I will find out then. <br />All the questions people have for us, like how in the world do you find time to make a baby? How do you afford all of them? How do you give them enough attention? WELL...we just do. I get asked these types of questions very regularly with our 5 and I am sure with 6 it will be even more frequent and invasive. But, the truth is, most days I don't feel like we have a ton of kids. We get along just fine. They are kids, so they have trying moments and fighting and being bull-headed, but they really are really good kids. We discipline and teach and train and spend time with them trying to create good, solid individuals. We are not perfect, but we do our best to meet each person's needs. <br />We were not expecting to be pregnant. In fact, I signed up for 3 classes in the spring to get a little ahead. HAHA. Now, 2 is definitely the max for me for a while. I may actually have to take summer off. It does throw a curveball into my plans because I had planned to begin practicum next fall and TA for a class. Now, I don't see how that would be possible. <br />I was a little sad at first because I am a planner. When things go off course a bit, it throws me for a loop. But, that's life, right? I have thought about it and so what if I finish a year later than planned? Or so what if I get an EdS instead of a PsyD? My true job is to raise these little people and that is what matters the most to me. <br />I will still finish! I say that because I am a mom, but I also have other dreams and I fully believe that is a-okay. Also, quite honestly, when they are all teenagers and beyond, I have no doubt we will need me to have an income. Babies are cheap! Big kids are expensive!!! <br />We are so blessed though and are able to provide for these children emotionally, mentally and physically. <br /><br />So, December 5th we shall find out how far along we are and when we are due. I will also plan my tubal...no ifs ands or buts this time!!! We are at capacity for our home and our van. I am hoping to go in there and be 12 weeks already. If so, I will find out what we are having at our next appointment! How cool is that? <br /><br />So, be happy for us and think we are crazy if you want. We are happy and maybe even a little crazy.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-61672896478393916622011-06-23T11:15:00.000-07:002011-06-23T11:27:54.451-07:00The last 7 weeks...Are a blur! I have been in graduate school taking my very first class...Marriage and Couples Therapy. It is a PhD level course and whew! I was very worried about my skill level for such a course so many years after having been in class. <br />Here is what made me worried: 60% of my grade: 2 papers up to 21 pages each, a reflection paper on my family that I have to find and COUNSEL, yes, counsel. 15% of my grade: 1 1/2 hour presentation. 10% of my grade participation in class discussions. 15% of my grade: content of discussions.<br />Yes: All of my grade is writing in some form or fashion...which must be done in APA format. APA who? <br />Counseling....that is a tough one for someone with absolutely no counseling background or previous classes in theories.<br />Presentation: 1.5 hours...that is a long time to talk!<br /><br />I have been spending about 4-5 hours a day/night working on school work. Yes, in addition to my regular life responsibilities.<br /><br />BUT: I am halfway through the class and I have an A. I spent the last 3 days on campus for our residency portion. I feel very confident now. The fear is gone. I know I am capable. I have decided to pursue my PsyD! <br /><br />I thoroughly enjoyed being in class...contributing ideas, listening to other ideas, learning from some great minds. <br />I am a great wife and mother (most of the time). I am a capable (barely) keeper of our house, a pretty decent cook, a pretty decent friend. <br />But...I am also a student...a woman with ideas. I am so excited to be on this journey. <br /><br />I am on the downward slope of the class. ONLY 1 paper, 3 more counseling sessions, 7 more discussion questions and the reflection paper left! I will make it and I am determined to get an A.<br /><br />Remind me of this next semester when I might be rethinking all of this, haha. I am taking School Psych Ethics (Yawn, boring...but necessary) and Cognitive Assessment (hopefully slightly more interesting). And...I have to wean my poor, sweet baby at 9 1/2 months because I will be on campus for 7 days straight in October. But...if I can stick it out and do 2-3 classes a semester, I will be one of a few PsyD School Psychs here in FL...which will make me a hot commodity, especially if I want to teach at the University level! <br /><br />Life is never boring folks!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-58301175887094879872011-04-05T10:30:00.000-07:002011-04-05T10:56:38.074-07:00Mom of ManyWho am I? How did I become this woman I am today? I was reading a blog on a well known baby website about a lady who has 6 children and her journey to have them. Her story is so similar to mine. Originally, Tony and I did not really think or voice to each other at least, how many children we planned on having. We had Lexi less than a year after getting married and she just fit right in. Birth control has never been something I have been good at. I joke that I would not be a good druggie because I have a difficult time remembering vitamins. ;-) I took the mini pill though and thankfully nursing kept my fertility at bay until, well, I became pregnant again when Lexi was 13 months. This time, I was nervous. One child changed our lives, but we were doing well with it. I was not losing any sleep...Lexi was a dream baby. No dividing attention. I worked outside of the home. We still were able to eat out often. 2 babies...well, it rocked my world! Sleep deprivation, nursing, keeping up with a toddler and a newborn all while working outside of the home. It was too much for me! Realizing that I wasn't making that much money and I was very stressed with how our life had changed caused me to quit my job. Alivia was a high needs baby for me that stayed high needs for quite a while. (She is a very sweet, helpful child now). I had no doubt we were done. I actually bottle fed her and was on the depo shot (no need to remember a pill daily ;-) Then, doubt creeped in....hmmm...maybe I didn't feel done afterall. When Alivia was 2...and I like to say that she had terrible two's from 6 months until 3....we decided to try for another. The first time for us actually thinking about and trying for a baby! Allie fit in perfectly from the start. She was a great baby and it was almost too easy adding her to our family! But...we still longed for a son! Is it crazy to want another baby after 3 already? Could I be a good mom to more than 3? After wrestling with this for a bit, we realized our family was not complete. This was the point of no return. We knew we were going to be different than most at this point...and you know what, it is so freeing not caring what the majority thinks anymore! Domenick was another easy transition. Though not a good sleeper until well after a year old, he fit right in. Having a boy has been so much fun! It really is a whole different perspective and I do love it! He is such a momma's boy, so snuggly at one time and rough and tumble at another. You'd think I would be satisfied, right! We should be done! Well, 22 months later Lainey joined us. This time, I was supposed to have a tubal after birth. 5 is bordering crazy right!?!? And we all have to bed done at some point! My doctor, however, got involved in a complicated procedure and was unable to perform it. 6 weeks post partum, supposed to have the surgery again...did not work out again! Lainey has been such a blessing to our family. All the kids just dote on her and she is such a smiley little baby! At 3 1/2 months old, she is already sleeping all night! She is just a chunky roly poly. So, now we're done right...though no surgical measures have been taken? Well...not exactly! I know...if you are reading this...not sure anyone does anymore...I am not a regular blogger... If you knew me growing up, I was soooo not a kid person. If you knew me in college, I was going to be a professional with possibly 2 kids. Haha! Like the blogger I read, I do not feel our family is complete. I feel as if someone is missing. I would love to be able to give Domenick a brother. I know I am not in charge of that part and either way, boy or girl, I do feel we are just not finished. I know this may seem crazy to some. It's okay...a large family is not for everyone. I respect other's choices in family size. For us, though I absolutely love the chaos, the hugs and kisses, the kid's love for each other. I love my life...and yes, as crazy as it seems I am a mom of many!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-41781488175249618152010-12-03T16:02:00.000-08:002010-12-03T16:14:57.667-08:00Happy Birthday Alexis!8 years old today! <br />Daddy works late tonight, so we had pizza for dinner and she is having a friend sleep over. They are doing crafts and playing little girl make believe.<br />Tomorrow night we are doing family birthday dinner...our tradition is you get to choose anything you want and I will cook it. She has scoured the cookbooks and decided on tuscan white bean soup (Giada recipe), steaks with a olive and balsamic glaze (Giada) and sauteed broccoli....she is definitely her parent's child. ;-) <br />We are also, finally, decorating our tree while enjoying some hot cocoa and Christmas music. It's actually cold enough here in FL to have hot cocoa!!!<br />And...for the grand finale...(we make big deals about birthdays at the Devescovi house!) on Sunday we are having a treasure chest party for her friends with a treasure hunt, pin the treasure on the ship, decorating treasure boxes and a treasure chest pinata...along with a weanie roast and homemade treasure filled cupcakes. <br />After the friend portion, our families are coming. My father-in-law's and niece's birthdays are tomorrow, so we will have a big celebration for everyone. I am making Emeril's recipe for a fresh ham, Giada's parmesan baked mashed potatoes, baked ziti, salad and bread! Do you see a running theme here....FOOD!!!<br /><br />All of this rests on little Lainey staying put at least through the weekend. Now...I have never had a baby early, but you never know!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-43535124637265736012010-11-23T15:42:00.000-08:002010-11-23T15:53:09.976-08:00Mom, Wife, Friend, Chef, Maid, Taxi Driver....Of course I wear many hats these days...those are just a few. <br /><br />And, as of May I will also be a student again. I got accepted into the Master's program for school psychology today!!!!! <br /><br />I am relieved, excited, nervous...and I am sure the list will grow as May approaches. <br /><br />At one time...many, many years ago, I thought I would get my master's in psychology or possibly my PhD. Well, life took me in a totally different direction...one I couldn't possibly have known or prepared for....marriage and 5 children. I have absolutely no regrets about this path. I love being a wife and mother and all that entails. <br /><br />For the past 6 years I have been a stay at home mom and that has been a huge blessing for our family. Here and there I have held side jobs, such as my current babysitting gig...but, basically my priority has been to stay home for our children. I honestly never seriously thought about going back to work or going back to school for a career. However, that's the new path my life is taking. And, I really am so excited! <br /><br />I am not naive. I know it will be difficult to juggle everything while in school and once I start working (4 years down the road). But, I have a great support system....and I really can't wait to be involved in some really thought provoking, challenging, intellectual studies.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-2061312018128167692010-11-20T06:01:00.000-08:002010-11-20T07:01:20.342-08:00Reflections of a MommyThis year my Alexis informed me that she would love a pedicure for her birthday, which is in 2 weeks....not just her toes painted, but a real pedicure. She will be 8 and is not too many years away from being taller than I am. Well, it just so happens that this weekend my other children are with my parents, since Lexi has a swim meet in Orlando. <br /><br />So, last night Lexi and I got a date night. We each had a pedicure, which she loved! Then, we went to a pizza place that is similar to Chuck e Cheese and had dinner and played a few games. What a nice time we had. <br /><br />She really makes me so proud and I admit that I don't tell her often enough. I am constantly making sure she remembers manners, remembers to pick up after herself, remembers homework, is respectful....so many things that I do feel are so important. But, I don't want her memories to be of only those things. I want her to remember how much I really love her and love spending time with her. She is blossoming into a child any parent would be proud of. I pray she continues on the path she is on. She has such potential! I also pray the years slow down a little ;-)...these last 8 years have flown by. In the next 8, she will be driving a car! Yikes! The days go slowly sometimes, but the years just go too fast! I am in no hurry for my little girl(s) and boy to grow up! The chaos, messes, headaches, busyness...is nothing compared to the giggles, hugs, kisses, love.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-8001746970716630332010-11-17T12:03:00.001-08:002010-11-17T12:11:37.692-08:00In the Next Month..I will be on maternity leave from babysitting this time next week for 12 weeks! <br /><br />Thanksgiving will have come and gone...this year we are going to a friend's house. I am so excited! We have done Thanksgivings with family and by ourselves. This is our first year going to Keli's house. The kids will have a ball and all I have to bring is an appetizer...thank goodness for not having to make a full meal!<br /><br />All my Christmas shopping will be done. I am close to being done now!<br /><br />My oldest daughter will turn 8 and we will be having a pirate/treasure hunt party!<br /><br />I should have received a decision regarding admission into the school psychology program.<br /><br />I will have had our last baby and a tubal. 28 days from today if Lainey hasn't come on her own, I will be induced!<br /><br />What a crazy, busy, lifechanging month ahead of us!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-38109861813757484082010-10-25T06:18:00.000-07:002010-10-25T06:22:21.416-07:00Cheesy Augratin PotatoesI found this recipe yesterday while trying to think of something else to do with potatoes for a side dish for dinner. It was given 2 thumbs up by our whole family!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/creamy-au-gratin-potatoes/Detail.aspx">http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/creamy-au-gratin-potatoes/Detail.aspx</a><br /><br />Super easy and really good. I changed it to 6 servings and we have enough for leftovers tonight!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-37756288060462940002010-10-20T11:54:00.000-07:002010-10-20T12:01:16.470-07:008 weeks and counting!!!Seriously...that's all the time I have left before our caboose baby arrives. Crazy how fast time has flown. Although, as busy as we seem to always be, I guess it's not that crazy. <br />I am so ready physically to be able to sleep on my belly again, to not be uncomfortable when I stand or sit or lie down, lol. I am ready to not see the numbers on the scale continually climb.<br /><br />I am not quite ready to be up all hours of the night...Domenick didn't start sleeping through the night until he was 14 months old!!! I pray this one has mercy on me and doesn't take that long to sleep all night. I am nervous about all of our extracurricular activities and the running around they entail and having a newborn. I am super duper nervous about having a tubal. I have made it 31 years without a surgery....and now I feel it's necessary. <br /><br />I know God doesn't give us more than we can handle, with his grace. I have done this 4 times already and the difficult times are a blur compared to all the great times each one has brought to our lives.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-71393919207469837872010-10-13T10:40:00.000-07:002010-10-13T10:49:37.697-07:00Proud Mommy Moment!I had a phone conference with the school psychologist, school counselor, Alexis' teacher and the gifted teacher today. I had already received the results from Lexi's psychological/iq tests that she had this summer. She scored very high, 139 on the nonverbal portion of the tests, still higher than average on the verbal as well. Apparently geometric shapes, numerical sequences...things of that nature are her strong point as well as memory exercises. According to her former teachers and current teacher she is a very intellectual child....or as the counselor said...a smart cookie. ;). <br /><br />The gifted teacher will basically have Lexi all day on Wednesdays and has designed a program specifically to suit her strengths. She will be in class with other 1st and 2nd graders and they will get to do some group projects as well.<br /><br />I'm so proud of my little girl and hope she enjoys this program. <br />So...yeah, I'm bragging about my oldest daughter...but it's my blog, right?Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-92104814618035380522010-10-10T12:36:00.000-07:002010-10-10T12:44:03.590-07:00Back to SchoolWell...I talked to a school, Argosy University, out of Sarasota (about a 2 hour drive). I am speaking with the head of the Psych department on Tuesday or Wednesday morning. Then, I think I am going to go ahead and start the application process. Wish me luck! I have considered many avenues....from nursing to teaching....and I feel this will be my best option. The good news is they offer 3, 4 and 5 year options for the school psych program. I can do most of it online, having to report to campus a few times each semester. The bad news....it's going to cost me an arm and a leg. Seriously! But, for our family I really feel the best option would be for me to continue my education and have a job in the school system. I want the holidays off and summers off with my kids and I want a normal schedule. If I do this Tony can either keep doing what he's doing, if he chooses, or at least have more flexibility to choose a job that offers better hours than a restaurant. <br /><br />No quick fix...that's for sure! But, hopefully I will be in school as of August of next year!!! I am excited and nervous at the same time. I haven't had to be a professional or a student in so long I am not even sure I remember how. I haven't had to write anything to be read seriously in so long I may need help remembering the rules! But....I really am excited!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-41679662088799584932010-10-05T11:47:00.000-07:002010-10-05T12:18:24.004-07:00My world...What's going on in my world lately? Obviously not a whole lot of blogging, lol. I am much too lazy for that. ;-) <br />Let's see: Alivia just turned 6...how crazy is that?!? We had a great birthday party for her: puppy themed, with tons of games and a fabulous pink poodle cake. Alivia loves all things puppy..pet shops, pillow pets, puppy clothes...you name it. She is in kindergarten this year and is doing very well. She loves her teacher and other than the occasional irritation over homework, seems to really like school. Her teacher, Mrs. O'Neill seems to be a great fit for her and has nothing but positive things to say about Liv. Livia is still dancing away, her 3rd year in dance with the same teacher. <br /><br />Lexi will be 8 in December and not to be outdone by her sister, is already busy helping to plan her own spectacular party. She was tested for gifted this summer and will be starting that program here in the next few weeks. Amazingly she has an off the charts aptitude nonverbally. I can say, she didn't get that from her mama. ;-)...verbally, well that would be a different story.<br />She is on the swim team and is doing very well. Her backstroke is unbelievable and her dedication is admirable. I hope she continues to love swimming and competing. The meets, which are a couple of times a month are nervewracking (for me) and rewarding for her.<br />Lexi's teacher isn't my favorite...while good at teaching her subject areas, she's as warm as a piece of ice. I guess not everyone is warm and cuddly. Regardless of her personality, Lexi is doing well and we are so proud of her. She is making good choices and above and beyond her good grades, she is kindhearted and has good manners (which, let's face it...is a rarity).<br /><br />Allie Cat is in K-3 this year 3 days a week, doing gymnastics and her first year of dance. She is just precious in her little leotard and seems to enjoy it. She is learning and loves her new school. At this point, her favorite part is the playground. She is having a tough time being 3...a battle of the wills right now. She'll get through it though. She loves babies. She is currently enthralled with all things Dora. I have no idea why...she never watches it on tv. She wants anything and everything advertised on tv. She learned how to swim this summer and can jump in and swim all over our pool. <br /><br />Domenick...keeps us on our toes. He's heck on wheels most of the time. He is currently in love with balls and trucks. He loves pretending to cook in his little kitchen. If you give him a handful of cookies, he will stuff the entire handful into his mouth at once. He loves playing outside and has recently learned how to go down the slide by himself. He loves giving kisses and says "wub u" now. He is now sleeping in a big boy bed all night! He's so different from my girls and I love that I get to experience being a mama to a boy too.<br /><br />I am 10 weeks away from giving birth to Lainey and getting my tubes tied! Yikes! I am still babysitting for 7 more weeks. I am doing well and have enjoyed having Tony home for the last 10 months, minus his few deployments. I am organizing a consignment sale for March of next year and planning on starting online classes for a master's in school psychology in August. <br />Tony just started a new job with TooJay's deli as a manager...just, as in Monday...so we'll be getting used to him working lots again, though not as much as when he worked at Chili's. At least he won't be gone for 4-5 weeks at a time though, and employer benefits are such a plus to have again. <br /><br />So...that's what's going on in our world for now. In 10 weeks there will be more...and Christmas will be only 10 days away. ;-) And next year there will be even more still. I am so thankful for my family and friends though and if being busy and having a lot on my plate are my biggest issues...well, I surely can't complain!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-47407951788632846032010-07-26T12:55:00.000-07:002010-07-26T13:00:00.798-07:00Dinner and a movieFriday night I took Lexi to see "Ramona and Beezus." What a cute movie! We really enjoyed it! It was nice to have a mommy/Lexi date night...I really enjoyed talking about what she liked, her favorite parts of the movie. She's really growing up! (Sniffle, tear).<br /><br />After the movie, we went to Outback, which happens to be her favorite and enjoyed a nice meal. She's been having a tough time this week, missing daddy, so this was just what the doctor ordered.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-16721284949330657652010-07-22T12:52:00.001-07:002010-07-22T12:56:31.732-07:00Flying solo again..After 4 weeks home with us, Tony is yet again on the road....this time in Minnesota. Not sure how long he will be gone, but looking like maybe 3-4 weeks again. This is of course the hard part for all of us, but he has the potential to make enough $$ this time to ease my worries for quite a bit....and to make himself a valuable asset to his boss. Yay! The down part is obviously him being gone and the fact that more than likely he won't be back until school is starting back. But, God is answering our prayers and taking care of our family.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-68632098813936872712010-07-20T08:21:00.001-07:002010-07-20T08:24:32.081-07:00IT'S A ......Baby girl! We are expecting Alaina Paige to join the Devescovi family mid-December. She is healthy, and very active. She looks perfect! She was a little stinker though...did not want to show us her goods. It took the poor u/s tech 45 minutes to figure her out...she was very modest!<br /><br /><br />We are excited to be expecting another healthy baby girl. She'll fit right into our pink little world, lol. So, baby Domenick is blessed to have so many girls to take care of him and to take care of. He and Tony will definitely have to stick together against the raging girlie hormones.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-12639996377714644802010-07-15T06:19:00.000-07:002010-07-15T06:26:10.599-07:00Slacker Blogger/Busy MomI have not blogged lately.....and let's see why?<br /><br />I have all 4 kids home for the summer all day and Tony a lot of days and I babysit 2 boys.<br /><br />Keeping 6 kids out of trouble and productive/busy is a full time job, not even accounting for all the messes they make for me to clean up, laundry they create.<br /><br />Feeding 6 kids constantly is a full time job.<br /><br />Being pregnant during the hottest part of the year is EXHAUSTING. I am feeling much more human lately though.<br /><br />A week's vacation at the beach. No blogging there...too busy soaking up the sun, enjoying everything about being there.<br /><br /><br />Well, you get the picture! Summer is busy! In 5 more weeks, the school year will start here again, and well, I'll be just as busy/busier, but it will be more scheduled/structured. Alivia will be starting kindergarten this year, unbelievably. Lexi will be in 2nd grade....and Allie Cat will be going a few days a week to pre-k 3. Guess what that means? At least a few days a week with only me and Domenick....well, until December when this new little one arrives. Speaking of which, we find out what we are having next Monday, the 19th.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-84621462961384016652010-06-17T10:36:00.001-07:002010-06-17T10:42:57.907-07:00The goings on...Today I had my 2nd doctor's appointment for this new little Devescovi. It is such a relief to hear that heartbeat each time...surely helps to set the mind at ease. It was just a beating at 150 per minute. Other than reviewing my labs, which were all normal, as expected..the appointment was pretty boring, thank goodness. In about a month we should know the gender of our caboose baby.<br /><br />Tony comes home a week from today...after having been gone a total of 3 weeks...a praise surely! He may have to head out again in another week or so after our vacation...but thank goodness he'll be heading home!<br /><br />We are leaving that Saturday for our annual beach trip...this time sharing a condo with good friends of ours in Reddington Beach...never stayed there before, but CAN'T WAIT!!!!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-85908816918700267792010-06-14T12:49:00.001-07:002010-06-14T13:01:23.160-07:00Iowa...is where my husband is and has been for the last 10 days. If you have followed my blog or know me in real life, Tony is now a Catastrophic Insurance Adjuster. He has done training after training and classes and is on half a dozen rosters. He is independent, and has been waiting for an opportunity to go and make some $$. Well, our friend's dad, who is giving him an opportunity, when most companies require 2 year's experience, and will probably only call him in the event of a major hurricane...called him out to Iowa. He has trained for a bit with another adjuster and will get to actually do some of his own claims and earn some $$. What this has really done for him though is to show him that he can indeed do this and to give him the confidence that he has needed. He is doing an awesome job and will now get called out again from this company. <br /><br />What this has done for me is to show me that I can make it when he has to be gone...and it has eased some of my fears about $$. <br /><br />Praising God...He continues to show us that we have made the right decision. And...let me just say how proud of my husband I am. He left the only career he has ever had, one which had many bad aspects, but did provide well for our family. He took a chance and a risk in order to ultimately provide better for our family and to be at home more! I really couldn't be more proud!Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-29707224003208084092010-06-14T12:39:00.000-07:002010-06-14T12:48:43.798-07:0013 weeks...Saying good-bye to my 1st trimester this week! Woohoo! Hopefully the end of my exhaustion, heartburn, food aversions, and nausea.<br /><br />So, here's an update on my pregnancy so far: I am not quite showing yet, though my clothes don't fit so well anymore. I don't really look pregnant though, but more "chunky" in the middle. <br /><br />I have gained between 4 and 5 lbs so far...which is totally because I have been eating things I don't normally eat and constantly eating because I feel better when I am eating...the nausea seems to subside. So, I do plan to curb this quite a bit in the near future. I do think I gained almost this in my first trimester with Domenick and still stayed at 28 lbs for the total weight gain...so hoping to do that again this time.<br /><br />I have my 2nd doctor's appointment on Thursday and will schedule my "gender" ultrasound oon that day. Woohoo! I can't wait to know how we will complete our family. <br /><br />Anyway...so far this pregnancy is flying by....totally could be the fact that I am super busy with all the kiddos and life in general.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-90395041967290470632010-06-06T13:27:00.001-07:002010-06-06T13:31:43.731-07:00First Swim MeetAlexis did outstanding! She really has a gift for this sport. She finished 1st in her heat for freestyle and 2nd in her heat for backstroke...for 8 and under girls. I am just such a proud mama. This summer is going to be a busy one and really keep her active. 3 nights a week swim practice and meets on Saturdays. I am a little apprehensive about swim meets when Tony is gone and I have to take 3 other kids to sit for 3 hours....but I promised myself that I would just figure it out...I don't want to say no to things the kids love (within reason) just because they have a larger family. <br /><br />Pictures to come soon...it's be forever since I posted any.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-87316718609831278682010-06-02T05:02:00.001-07:002010-06-02T05:11:20.075-07:00June 1stwas the first day of hurricane season. Here in FL, that means people, especially those on the coasts will start preparing by buying extra water, batteries, canned goods, etc to have in the event of a major storm/power loss. <br /><br />For us, it means my husband should get to work a lot and really get his feet wet in this new career choice. It probably means Tony will be gone for an extended period of time....possibly months. <br /><br />While everyone else is going to be paying attention to weather stations and radars in hopes that this will be a quiet season, we will be paying attention and hoping for an active hurricane season. Forecasters have predicted anywhere from 12-25 named storms, with as many as half of those being major hurricanes.<br /><br />Now I know how this makes me sound, heartless...but I am praying for at least a major storm or two so that my husband can work and this career change he made proves the right one. There is nothing I would hate more than Tony having to go back to a job working a million hours a week, working every weekend, being stressed to the max and doing all this with little to no appreciation.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-70963192118987723942010-06-01T10:13:00.000-07:002010-06-01T10:26:44.391-07:00My girlies...They were beautiful in their play/dance recital this past week. Alexis had several lines in her spring play and did such a great job. Alivia had her last dance recital of the year...and really, is there anything cuter than little girls dressed up in leotards and tights, in costumes and shaking their hips. I will miss this preschool for her next year...the nurturing nature of these ladies is different than her school next year. I so wish we could afford private school for our girls. There are many good things to be said about our school here, but nurturing/Biblically based are not 2 adjectives to be used. <br /><br />Lexi also tried out for swim team and made it! She has always been my little fishy. The coach said she has a very advanced stroke for her age! And...most importantly, Lex really enjoys swimming. It is just a summer swim team, so we will see how it goes before deciding if this is something she would like to continue. <br /><br />Alexis is also being tested for gifted. She loves school and is reading faster/comprehending more than a 3rd grader. She also loves math right now and is adding/subtracting triple digits. It blows my mind what they learn in 1st grade these days.<br /><br />Anyway...I am just so proud of my little mini-me's. Above all, they are sweet-natured, really well-behaved (most of the time), respectful kids. I do believe that a lot of that is due to the fact that we are very selective about what tv they are allowed to watch...basically only pbs and sprout...no big kid shows at all. Also, I am not tolerant of a sassy attitude in the least...so we are very consistent about discipline when we encounter that.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-18094930856320590312010-05-25T11:18:00.000-07:002010-05-25T11:28:59.984-07:00The last few weeks of school...We are so busy right now! This week we had Alivia's last gymnastic's performance, our last soccer practice, 2nd grade orientation....all on Monday.<br /><br />Tonight Lexi is trying out for the summer swim team, which if she makes it, practices on Tues/Thurs and has meets on Saturdays.<br /><br />And...Thursday night I have Lexi's spring program and Alivia's last dance recital. Lexi has to be at school at 5:50 for a program that starts at 6:30 and at 7:10 I have to leave there and rush across town for Alivia's dance recital at 7:30. Yowzas!<br /><br />Then Saturday is our last soccer game/awards/picnic. Afterwards we leave to go to my mother-in-law's house for the weekend. <br /><br />And...on it goes until the 9th, when Alivia graduates from vpk and school's out for summer.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-30311268644406970682010-05-24T12:39:00.000-07:002010-05-24T12:47:30.795-07:00Pregnancy UpdateI am almost 10 weeks pregnant, and experiencing mad heartburn/nausea. I have not gotten sick though, so that's a plus...and the nausea comes and goes. I have gained 2 lbs, mostly since I haven't gotten sick and to combat the nausea I am constantly eating something. <br /><br />I can still fit into my clothes, but they are getting a bit uncomfortable and I have bought a few "in-between" outfits. <br /><br />I am a bit cranky, but not horribly so.<br /><br />I have gone to the doctor already, 2 weeks ago and got to see the baby on the u/s and the little heart was beating away. My next appt is at 13 wks.<br /><br />I am just trying to make it until 12 weeks and hoping I have more energy and less nausea/heartburn. So...2 more weeks, til I hopefully have some relief.<br /><br />Honestly, I am so glad this is my last time being pregnant. I am trying very hard to hide the symptoms from the kids and give them my best...but some days the exhaustion makes this difficult. I am getting my tubes tied this time because this will complete our family and I just really can't imagine another pregnancy...though of course it is worth it in the end.Nichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4399227793604007485.post-43943723247363724172010-05-03T14:19:00.000-07:002010-05-03T14:25:16.708-07:00MenuTony lost another 3.5 lbs last week. He's doing an awesome job! And...gets to add another carb in this week...yay!<br /><br />Monday: shepherd's pie...low-fat version: ground turkey instead of ground beef, mashed potatoes, corn, low-fat cheese.<br /><br />Tuesday: chicken sausage with onions and peppers on a roll with sauteed veggies<br /><br />Wednesday: chicken and veggies with penne and tomato sauce<br /><br />Thursday: grilled shrimp, skewered veggies, rice pilaf (brown rice)<br /><br />Friday-Monday our friends will be here!!! <br />Friday: carne asada, pico de gallo, guacamole, grilled bbq onions<br /><br />Saturday: Busch Gardens for the dayNichole Devescovihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534468015599746602noreply@blogger.com0