Group #2 - more weeks have passed...
Now this kind of stuff just cracks me up - here's Brandon Lillard, a recent datee of Dawn's, dropping off a bouquet of roses for their dream date, while husband Dwight is just behind him on the porch. *eyeroll* Not the sharpest tool in the shed, are we Dwight?!
Not that Dawn's slowed down any, but she's become a little more discrete, usually going downtown to hang out with friends after Dwight & Belle are asleep.
ummm, Dawn, I said after Dwight's gone to bed...
Hey - he's so wound up on building his skills to get the next promotion, he won't even notice. I think it really irritates him that I make more money than he does. But he's gotten so old-fashioned since we've gotten married. I just don't get him anymore - I don't remember him being such an old grouch in college.
No, thanks. I don't really feel like hanging out tonight. I was just hoping to stand out in front of this photo booth & play with my lips. Maybe tomorrow night.
Alright Mathew. I was just hoping that we could have some dinner or shoot pool. Say hey to your brother for me.
Hey Clint - how's tricks?
Business is tough - too many dang heroes around here! You can't swing a cat in this town without hitting a Captain Hero.
(keep moving Dawn, you're not crossing the line of the law around here. He's right!)
But the days passed swiftly and soon it was time for Belle's first birthday. Dawn always made sure she was home for some quality time with Belle.
Momma!! I'm a big girl now! Can I open my eyes?
Of course Belle - you have beautiful blue eyes! And only puppies can't open their eyes when they're babies! But I sure hope your hair grows quickly, even your daddy's hair is longer than that!
Momma?
Good girl!! You said Momma! Now, will you please work on growing your hair out?!
It's getting longer momma, can I get a snuggle now? Ummm, and I need to use the potty.
Of course! But let me just call daddy, he really wanted to do that potty duty.
Daddy, how come you don't have giant green numbers floating over your head? You're a family sim, aren't you so proud of me for learning to use my potty??
I am proud of you sweetie, but daddy's just very tired tonight. I've been working really hard & daddy needs some rest.
Why daddy? Do you have a career that you really want to master so you'll be in a great mood forever?
No. Come to think of it, I don't. I have some sappy family oriented LTW that will take me years to reach.
You what?!
I quit my job. If you're not going to stay home to raise our children, I am and I don't really care about a career.
Dammit Dwight! We should discuss these things first! We need the money right now - look around you - we're just getting started and living in this crappy little house. How do you expect to build any kind of legacy if you're going to spend your days lying around & watching TV?? And in those gawdawful underwear!!
I'm not going to be watching TV. I'm researching the heavens. I've heard some serious discussion about aliens visiting around here, so I've bought a telescope & I'm going to start studying the cosmos every night.
And what's wrong with my underwear? You bought me these for Valentine's Day, in college. Remember?
pah - your butt's not the same butt it was in college. You've got a week, two tops. And then we're revisiting this no job thing.
Now, the best sources all recommend a session in the energizer bucket, and a groovy pair of swimtrunks. I'm ready, green man. Show thyself.
ohmygod! Dwight - do you think you could do your research in the backyard? I really don't need all the neighbors knowing how nuts my husband has become.
Momma, can I wish for my real daddy to come back?
This is your real daddy Belle. He's just temporarily lost his marbles. It's a guy thing, you'll maybe understand it when you're older. And yes, wish very hard that he straightens out. Soon.
And despite her father's current zombie-like state, Belle grew into a sweet girl, very much like her mother.
.
Wheee!!! Thanks for the jumping tips, momma!! This is the best! *giggles*
Belle is a Leo, with stats of 4, 9, 5, 6, 6, and a titch overweight.
What's that? ahh, a cloud, shaped like a piano. I guess maybe I should buy my little girl a piano.
(that's right, Dwight. whatever you say.) *eyerolls*
So Dwight continued to order expensive toys for Belle and Dawn continued to go to work every day to pay for them. He was home every day when Belle came home from school, and he would take a break from his sky-searching to help with homework when he was asked.
Thanks for helping me with my math homework, daddy. But I don't think any of my math answers should be "Cumulous clouds".
Trust me, sweetie. It's all written in the sky. Are you done yet? I need to get back to the yard.
What's that doctor? No - I don't think he can wait 6 weeks for an appointment, he's really losing it & I'm worried about leaving him home alone. He doesn't eat, he barely talks to anyone. He lays in the yard & watches the clouds all day & spends all night staring through his telescope. He thinks he's talking to the aliens.
Yes, we're trying to go about our normal routine and include him as much as possible. Ok. I will try talking to him again. But please call me if you have any cancellations in the mean time.
And Dwight continued to become more stubborn & withdrawn as the days passed, and Dawn tried to get her point across, keeping a smile on her face for Belle's sake.
Dwight. You've had a break. You've explored your inner child. Time to grow up & get a job. OK?
I won't have a nanny watching our children. Somebody needs to stay home with Belle. If you would stay home & care for her, I wouldn't have to.
Watching her?? You're not watching her - you're lying around in the yard! What kind of an example are you setting for her? You don't paint, you don't study, you're just barely breathing! And just because I'm a mother, I don't have to give up my job - millions of women do just fine raising a family & having a successful career.
I don't know why you're so puzzled by this. I don't feel like working right now. I can do whatever I want in my own home. King, castle. Get over it.
Get over it?! What the hell Dwight! You've got to get back to your family & your life! I'm your partner, and your equal in this house. Snap out of it - for my sake, and for Belle.
Now, I've got to get to work. And don't spend the day lying about the front yard. I've invited the Headmaster from that new private academy over tonight. Try to clean yourself up & be presentable by 5 o'clock, ok? The dinner is ready - you just need to turn on the oven. Please don't screw it up - Belle's really looking forward to this.
Daddy - can you start the dinner please? I think that head master just arrived. No - momma says I'd better talk to him, you just get dressed & don't burn the porkchops, ok?
Hi Mister Ryan. My name's Belle & I've been studying really hard to get into your new school. ummm, let's not go in the house just yet, come over here & let me give you a tour of the front yard.
You're right, Belle. I think that is the scariest part of Wizard of Oz.
Yeah, when that mean ole' witch turns the giant hourglass over on Dorothy & yells that she's gonna steal her new shoes & her little dog too. ohhh - it gives me the creeps!
And despite, or maybe because of, Belle's classic taste in movies, the head master was impressed enough to grant admission to his Academy for Belle. And she was so proud of her new uniform that first day. She didn't even get mad when she waved goodbye to her dad, doing the only thing he ever did anymore.
Dude - you need to do that in the back yard. Or at least put some pants on! Hey Pao.
Oh, hi DW. I'm really thinking I should've taken that postal job in Strangetown. This is weirder even than those green folks they have living there.
So Dawn & Belle carry on, trying to live a normal life, while Dwight spends his days keeping the grass flat. And we'll just head up the street here to check in with Debra. Last we saw, she had just married Eman. And she spends a lot of her extra time entertaining her friends & painting non-clown pictures.
And evidently, one of her friends passed along a strong case of the bumps.
Don't be ridiculous! This is a honeymoon baby, even I know you can't "catch" pregnancy.
Thanks Deb. You just ruined this great running gag we've had going here for weeks.
Congratulations Deb! This is great news - boy, there's been a lot of babies born around here lately. Won't it be great if all our kids can go to school together & be friends?
Well, thanks Jamie. It seems like all I have lately is pregnant friends. Or relatives dropping by, looking for a hot meal *eyes Ahmal pointedly*
Listen bud, I'm really glad you feel comfortable here & even that you've chosen to hang around here for awhile, but I don't know that you should be coming over to the house for all your meals. Especially now that Deb's expecting, she's kinda touchy about her food lately.
But it's just so awesome coming over here - your house is always full of cute chicks and hot food! What more could a guy want?
How about a permanent mailing address? You know - a home of your own. Then you can have all the cute food & hot chicks that you want! Maybe something on campus??
hehe - You mean cute chicks and .. oh whatever dude! But I catch your drift, I'll try and make myself more helpful around here. And maybe you could give me the phone number for that cute red head next door?
What?? No. There's no red heads around here for you at all.
So, are any of you ladies single?
Eman?! I thought you were going to talk to him!!
I did! Honest. I'll ask him to leave right after dinner.
But Eman was a little preoccupied with his hobbies, saving the world, and looking for new ones. He spent long hours working as Captain Hero, and when he wasn't flying the friendly skies he was watching them.
(psst - Eman - why is that telescope pointed at the big green house next door??)
Deb - congrat's on the newest bump! How have you been feeling?
Honestly, I think I do nothing but sleep & eat these days. But you just had a baby, didn't you Auk? How did you manage the last few months? I swear, if I get any bigger, my belly-button will be in another time zone.
Well you do look like you're about ready to pop - I don't think you have much longer to worry about it.
OH MY God!! Ack! Auk was right - this baby's coming out now! Eman - you're a super hero - come over here & help me!
I'm coming, I'm coming... even Speed Racer can't wake up at the drop of a hat. Or a puddle of a water, as the case may be!
Oh Deb! She's beautiful! What should we name her? You want a Deb jr?
No thanks - girls don't care about having a name sake, silly. But she gives me hope for the future - what about Nadia? I like that name.
Nadia sounds great. Let me just get a snuggle in before I go back to bed.
You know, honey, I've been doing some thinking...
Yes? About what? *staring at the extra setting at the table*
Well, you know I've been working a lot of hours lately, and I think it's only going to get worse. I think we're going to lose another Hero to maternity leave & we'll all have to pick up the slack. And I don't like leaving you & Nadia here alone so much...
Have you told her the good news?
I was just getting to that. Um, honey?
Yes. You were just getting to good news?
I've asked Ahmal to move in. He's decided to stay in the area and it would be a great help for you around here, now that you've got Nadia to look after. And I would worry a lot less knowing that you two aren't alone in the house.
You know Nadia & I are fine on our own, but of course Ahmal's welcome to stay here, until he finds his own place. But I don't want a lot of wild parties, or strange women hanging about.
Now Deb - no worries! No parties, promise. I'm not much of a cook, but I can help out around here, really.
And of course, you'll be looking for work too, you'll eventually want to find your own place. Right?
Uh, yeah. Right. If you guys don't need me around here, of course I'll find my own place.
And so the days and weeks passed, with Eman working more & Ahmal flirting up every girl that came by the house. And the only thing he ever looked at in the paper was the comics.
ohmy, aren't you a breath of fresh air! You can't be a friend of Deb's, why - you're so young! You must be still in college!
Stop - you're such a tease!
And soon it was time for Nadia to celebrate her first birthday. They threw a small party for her, Eman was able to get home from work just in time to watch her blow out the candles on her first cake.
pwetty, pwetty mamma!!
AAAAAugh!! no baby - don't pull out momma's earrings! You've grown up so well - but I think we'd better teach you to talk first thing!
Sweetheart - I'll just be outside, keeping an eye on everything.
*sigh* Yes dear. Just like every other night. I swear, that telescope must've left a ring around his right eye by now.
And Eman probably should've taken a bit of a page from Dwight's book, and slowed down a little on the working so much. He missed most of Nadia's younger years. And Ahmal was actually pretty good about cleaning up his act and his beer bottles. He only had a couple of pizza parties that broke up early enough, and try as she might, Deb really couldn't complain. He was almost even almost helpful.
And little Nadia spun up to be a Cancer sim, with stats of 10, 1, 6, 9, 9, so somebody's going to be encouaging Outgoing for this little girl.
Hey baby girl! Time to learn how to use your big girl potty. This is going to be very important to know once you start school.
Fanks Unca 'mal! Why come you don't wear footy jammies, wike me??
uhhh, well, Uncles don't really want, er, need footy pajamas. We're just naturaly warm blooded.
So is Eman in the backyard already? I didn't even hear him get up this morning.
No, he's already gone to work. He skipped breakfast even. Do you want anything from the market? I think I'm going to run down & pick up some pajamas for myself. I don't want Nadia to be scarred for life because her uncle sleeps in his briefs.
So while Deb thanked her lucky stars for small favors, and Eman protected the world, we'll move on down the street to DW's house. There's another little girl that's growing up quickly there too. A very smart little girl...
Should that be tomato or tom-ah-to? I've heard the paid actors on TV commercials use both pronounciations.
Well, Selena, that's called a Regional Accent, and we'll study those a little bit tomorrow. Your vocabulary is growing by leaps & bounds.
Thank you Harold. You've really set a fine example for me to emulate.
And is my little princess ready to learn how to walk today?
Yes, please DW. I believe it will greatly reduce my travel time to the bookcase every morning. Oh, and tomorrow, can you please rotate out the bottom shelf again? I still can't get down the higher books without risking a cranial contusion.
And I appreciate the art lessons - do you like my impression of the Bengal tiger?
You mean your face paint? Did Harold help you with that?
Well, he provided me with the non-toxic, waterproof colors I requested and a few text books of the native African fauna to study from.
Oh, this is so embarrassing. I can't believe that I can't just learn this part from one of my books.
Finally! I'm done with that awful fake plastic recepticle. Now, if I could only figure out how to reach DW's telescope....
And the boys didn't throw a big bash for Salena's birthday. She was eager to get to school, so they let her have some cake for breakfast & drove her to her first day of kindergarten.
Make a wish sweetie! Would you like a new bicycle? A new doll?
I'm just looking forward to being tall enough to reach the telescope. And maybe DSL - really daddy, I mean DW, but dialup?
Yes! 5 digits for each hand, long legs, and animal print pj's to match my facial artistry!!
And Salena is a Libra, with stats of 4, 9, 4, 7, 6 - she must get her playfullness from her mom!
Harold, you really don't have to help me with this. I don't know that you're actually qualified to tutor the new math.
Humor me, sweetie. I like to feel like I'm helping you in some way. When we're done here, I'll give you those cooking lessons you've been asking about.
Oh Joy!! Harold - you are the best alternate parent there is!
Salena and Harold had to schedule their cooking lessons the afternoons, as DW was usually using the candy making equipment late into the night. He was really driven to learn all he could in the culinary arena.
And Harold had his own dreams of mastering the Mechanical field so he could fix any problem that ever came up. And so their days were peaceful & full of determination, as all three of them pushed to learn everything they could.
And did you know that we're one of the few remaining natural habitats for the purple throated swampwarbler? They migrate over 400 miles each year to build their nests here in the spring.
*slaps hand to forehead* Salena - I sent you out there in hopes of meeting a future mate, please don't scare him away just yet! *checks notes to see if Leo is a Knowledge sim*
Doesn't he just radiate enthusiasm & joy?! I swear, if these boys get any more serious, I'm going to dress them up & send them out trick or treating just for grins!! Nothing exciting ever happens around here..
Until one night, after everyone had lumbered off to bed an ear-splitting siren broke the silence of the quiet hood. Yes, despite Eman's tireless work, Russ Bear had been granted parole & he was up to his old tricks again.
Fortunately, the advanced training of the newest recruits meant that he didn't even get past the front door before he was aprehended. And what?? Who is this fresh faced, young recruit? Yowsa!!
*makes a note of Brian Burke, rookie beat cop, for future husband material*
Burke? Burke?!! Could it be a relative? - naw - there's not a banana in sight!
Is this New York information? I'm trying to get the number for the Romanian embassy please. Yes, I believe I need to file a missing persons report.
Oh, dear... I bet DW's left a certain note lying around and somebody *glancing at the short one* has put two and two together. Well, I guess, she was bound to figure it out sooner or later. Let's move on, shall we? There's a few houses yet to visit. Yes, I see another little bump just around the corner...
Hi! I don't think we've met - I'm Eman's brother, Ahmal. I just recently moved here & thought I'd better get to know my neighbors a little better.
Very nice to meet you Ahmal. You haven't been here long, you say? Do you know how to play strip chess?
I think that's enough lessons for your first night. You practice a bit at home & I'm sure you'll get better.
And Hel spent most of her maternity leave throwing parties. Mostly just casual get -togethers, but she got so much help from all of her friends and her loving hubby, that she never had to lift a finger. Everyone pitched in & helped around the house, cooking meals, cleaning and repairing anything that needed fixing. One of her most frequent visitors was Mickey Armstrong, since their hours were so different, it was hard to get together when she was working.
I'm going to miss coming over here for lunch when you have to go back to work, Hel. You are going back to work after the baby's born, aren't you?
Oh yes, as a Show Biz icon these days, I just can't stay out of the public eye for long. You understand that - people have short memories. Sometimes it feels like weeks have passed from one day to the next . And then the next few days will just fly by like that! *snaps fingers*
Argh!! Mickey - quick - go wake up Remnie - he's in the back bedroom, but I think he's going to want to be here! He'd better be here! aaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!
Oh Baby!! It's a baby! She's beautiful!! What do you wanna call her... Hel? Where are you going??
Honey - what are you doing?
Uhhh, I'm not done with this spin cycle yet! ahhhhh...
A little boy - ah, Remmie, you have a son too! Good thing we thought of names for each!
T . t.. t..twins?? Remington! You did NOT tell me that twins run in your genetic code! And did I get two aspirational spikes - No, I did not!
And Mickey, who had watched the whole process from the far corner, was stunned. And quietly he though to himself "Wow - she looks great for just having twins....". And this simmer rolled her eyes at the men who constantly swoon over ladies that are giving birth. Run along now, we're not naming either one after you!
And after a quick cuddle with both Anna and Byron, Remington headed out to the backyard for some quiet time. And he thought about all the dualities in the universe & how these twins provided them with perfect balance. And how he should buy another crib first thing tomorrow...
How's my perfect little girl this morning?! You know I think daddy's right, you're going to look just like me.
And daddy's big boy? hmm Sorry Remmie, but this one's going to look like me too. But I think you've got your daddy's ears...
And as Dagmar came by with the "Congratulations" cards for the twins the next morning, she was amazed to see Hel, chatting with friends on her phone and wondered to herself if she would ever have as many best friends as Hel. She must have at least 30 by now, judging by the amount of the mail.
Momma, if I learn to walk quickly, do you think you'd have time to buy me some clothes? I'm really kinda cold in this sash...
Tanks for helping me up daddy. Ummm, why are you wearing gloves?
Shhhh - don't tell your mom, but I like to put them on sometimes, for old times sake.
The twins were big news, and Hel's friends were lining up to talk to them & make friends with them.
And for their next birthday, Hel threw a big birthday party, making sure that each child had their own cake. And yes, that's Joe, showing up in his Llama mascot suit again. He thinks it's funny, but I think it scared little Byron there.
I wish I get my own room, I wish I get my own room!!
I wish I could get rid of these mittens. I don't wanna wear gloves like daddy!
And what do you get twins for their birthday, when they already have everything they need? That's right a new NPC, and a black spot just over the stove. Honestly Remington, you were only making spaghetti & you've maxed your cooking skills already. Is someone distracted?!
Ah, just a thought, but maybe Somebody shouldn't hang paintings directly over the stove??!
Well, at least daddy didn't burn our pancakes this morning!
Yeah! And I'm starving, that cake last night didn't really fill me up. Race you to the school bus?
Anna is an Aries, and quite well-balanced - 6, 7, 5, 6, 3
Byron is also Aries (hello? twin!) though he's more outgoing - 6, 9, 5, 4, 4
And at the end of street, there's some more birthday confetti being thrown... it's time for Ivy & Russell's little girl Rosie to celebrate her birthday. Why are all my little girls growing up with shaved heads?! Maybe I should switch out the smart milk for some Hair Tonic!
Ivy! Take it easy with that confetti, wouldya please? Somebody's got to clean all that up, or she's going to be trying to eat it!
Calm down Russell, it's just birthday confetti! It'll disappear in a sim minute here. Oh, but my little girl has an urgent call, we'd best test out that new potty, hmmm?
I donno what dis is yet, but I'm soooo gwad it's hewe! Fanks mamma!
Now that little chore is taken care of, let's get you properly trained up - my little girl has to learn to walk around this big house of ours. I've got to get some milk that doesn't turn you green, it's not the best color for us red-heads.
Yes, I know momma's been taking good care of you & daddy's been working all week, but please try to say daddy! Come on princess.... Dad-dy!
Daddy! daddydaddydaddy!! *giggles*
Ok, I taught her to talk. Now can I get back to my surgical dummy please?! I've got a skill to max.
Russ, you look at me like that & I can't refuse you anything....
*snickers* Russell, you've been at the machine for so long, you've grown whiskers! Why don't you knock it off & get some sleep, so you're well rested for tomorrow.
Why? What's tomorrow?
Ahhhh - this is tomorrow! I get it! Woot, what a red letter day for me! I've reached the pinnacle of medical success! Ivy - throw a couple of steaks on the grill, we're going to celebrate!
You hafe red hair too. Does everybody 'round here hafe red hair? I bet aliens don't hafe red hair. I bet they're just mean & ugly.
Hey shortstuff - don't talk like that! Haven't you ever seen ET? oh wait - he was kinda ugly. But not mean. Maybe Lilo & Stitch, that's more your speed. Noooo, he was pretty mean & ugly at the beginning. hm, I guess you're right, aliens are mean & ugly.
I wish for a ... a.... a haircut please!! And maybe a perm. sheesh, this hair is awful! *blows*
I wish for Aliens. And maybe some little Russell Jr's running around here reeeeeally soon!
Ivy, I heard the strangest voice last night talking about us having more children... you haven't forgetten to tell me anything, have you? No little calls from the morning sickness fairy, right??
No Russ, the only call I've made is for the Headmaster. Don't forget, he's coming over tonight. And don't worry about the more kids thing, I'm not secretly spinning children wants, and if you're not, we should be ok.
Momma, I was kinda wanting a little brother... does that count?
Oh snap!
R Icecream U watermelon?? Daddy, that makes no sense at all. Please make a super good dinner tonight so I can get out of this lame-o public school?!
Good afternoon Mr. Korey Jitmatsusomething. My momma had to work a little late, but she suggest that I show you around a little while daddy's cooking dinner. Have you seen the new fountain that popped up in the front yard today?
Between the tour & the food, they passed the HM visit, even without Ivy's sparkling smoozing, as she was working the late shift. Actually, her only shift as an Ecological Guru. He didn't even stay to have coffee. So Rosie donned her new school uniform the next day and both parents were ecstatic with the results.
Momma! Momma!! Look - my first day at my new school & I've got an A+ already!! I tole you that public school system blows cookie chunks!!
Excellent work sweetie! But tell me that's not an expression that you picked up at the Academy, because we don't really like to talk about blowing any kind of chunks around here.
And Rosie is another Aries, with stats of 6, 9, 6, 4, 6.
Will Dwight get a clue before Dawn gets fed up & kicks him to the curb?
Will Deb ever have a second baby, with Eman working so much?
What on earth does Salena think she's going to say to a Romanian ambassador?
Will Hel ever find out that Remington still misses his gloved days?
Will Russell get his wish at the telescope & hope that Rosie changes her mind about aliens being mean & ugly?!
Will we get through all of the families having babies and raising toddlers before this simmer goes bonkers from the green glow of the smart milk??
Thanks for joining us on another round of Simtoria - comments are always appreciated! ;)
Not that Dawn's slowed down any, but she's become a little more discrete, usually going downtown to hang out with friends after Dwight & Belle are asleep.
ummm, Dawn, I said after Dwight's gone to bed...
Hey - he's so wound up on building his skills to get the next promotion, he won't even notice. I think it really irritates him that I make more money than he does. But he's gotten so old-fashioned since we've gotten married. I just don't get him anymore - I don't remember him being such an old grouch in college.
No, thanks. I don't really feel like hanging out tonight. I was just hoping to stand out in front of this photo booth & play with my lips. Maybe tomorrow night.
Alright Mathew. I was just hoping that we could have some dinner or shoot pool. Say hey to your brother for me.
Hey Clint - how's tricks?
Business is tough - too many dang heroes around here! You can't swing a cat in this town without hitting a Captain Hero.
(keep moving Dawn, you're not crossing the line of the law around here. He's right!)
But the days passed swiftly and soon it was time for Belle's first birthday. Dawn always made sure she was home for some quality time with Belle.
Momma!! I'm a big girl now! Can I open my eyes?
Of course Belle - you have beautiful blue eyes! And only puppies can't open their eyes when they're babies! But I sure hope your hair grows quickly, even your daddy's hair is longer than that!
Momma?
Good girl!! You said Momma! Now, will you please work on growing your hair out?!
It's getting longer momma, can I get a snuggle now? Ummm, and I need to use the potty.
Of course! But let me just call daddy, he really wanted to do that potty duty.
Daddy, how come you don't have giant green numbers floating over your head? You're a family sim, aren't you so proud of me for learning to use my potty??
I am proud of you sweetie, but daddy's just very tired tonight. I've been working really hard & daddy needs some rest.
Why daddy? Do you have a career that you really want to master so you'll be in a great mood forever?
No. Come to think of it, I don't. I have some sappy family oriented LTW that will take me years to reach.
You what?!
I quit my job. If you're not going to stay home to raise our children, I am and I don't really care about a career.
Dammit Dwight! We should discuss these things first! We need the money right now - look around you - we're just getting started and living in this crappy little house. How do you expect to build any kind of legacy if you're going to spend your days lying around & watching TV?? And in those gawdawful underwear!!
I'm not going to be watching TV. I'm researching the heavens. I've heard some serious discussion about aliens visiting around here, so I've bought a telescope & I'm going to start studying the cosmos every night.
And what's wrong with my underwear? You bought me these for Valentine's Day, in college. Remember?
pah - your butt's not the same butt it was in college. You've got a week, two tops. And then we're revisiting this no job thing.
Now, the best sources all recommend a session in the energizer bucket, and a groovy pair of swimtrunks. I'm ready, green man. Show thyself.
ohmygod! Dwight - do you think you could do your research in the backyard? I really don't need all the neighbors knowing how nuts my husband has become.
Momma, can I wish for my real daddy to come back?
This is your real daddy Belle. He's just temporarily lost his marbles. It's a guy thing, you'll maybe understand it when you're older. And yes, wish very hard that he straightens out. Soon.
And despite her father's current zombie-like state, Belle grew into a sweet girl, very much like her mother.
.
Wheee!!! Thanks for the jumping tips, momma!! This is the best! *giggles*
Belle is a Leo, with stats of 4, 9, 5, 6, 6, and a titch overweight.
What's that? ahh, a cloud, shaped like a piano. I guess maybe I should buy my little girl a piano.
(that's right, Dwight. whatever you say.) *eyerolls*
So Dwight continued to order expensive toys for Belle and Dawn continued to go to work every day to pay for them. He was home every day when Belle came home from school, and he would take a break from his sky-searching to help with homework when he was asked.
Thanks for helping me with my math homework, daddy. But I don't think any of my math answers should be "Cumulous clouds".
Trust me, sweetie. It's all written in the sky. Are you done yet? I need to get back to the yard.
What's that doctor? No - I don't think he can wait 6 weeks for an appointment, he's really losing it & I'm worried about leaving him home alone. He doesn't eat, he barely talks to anyone. He lays in the yard & watches the clouds all day & spends all night staring through his telescope. He thinks he's talking to the aliens.
Yes, we're trying to go about our normal routine and include him as much as possible. Ok. I will try talking to him again. But please call me if you have any cancellations in the mean time.
And Dwight continued to become more stubborn & withdrawn as the days passed, and Dawn tried to get her point across, keeping a smile on her face for Belle's sake.
Dwight. You've had a break. You've explored your inner child. Time to grow up & get a job. OK?
I won't have a nanny watching our children. Somebody needs to stay home with Belle. If you would stay home & care for her, I wouldn't have to.
Watching her?? You're not watching her - you're lying around in the yard! What kind of an example are you setting for her? You don't paint, you don't study, you're just barely breathing! And just because I'm a mother, I don't have to give up my job - millions of women do just fine raising a family & having a successful career.
I don't know why you're so puzzled by this. I don't feel like working right now. I can do whatever I want in my own home. King, castle. Get over it.
Get over it?! What the hell Dwight! You've got to get back to your family & your life! I'm your partner, and your equal in this house. Snap out of it - for my sake, and for Belle.
Now, I've got to get to work. And don't spend the day lying about the front yard. I've invited the Headmaster from that new private academy over tonight. Try to clean yourself up & be presentable by 5 o'clock, ok? The dinner is ready - you just need to turn on the oven. Please don't screw it up - Belle's really looking forward to this.
Daddy - can you start the dinner please? I think that head master just arrived. No - momma says I'd better talk to him, you just get dressed & don't burn the porkchops, ok?
Hi Mister Ryan. My name's Belle & I've been studying really hard to get into your new school. ummm, let's not go in the house just yet, come over here & let me give you a tour of the front yard.
You're right, Belle. I think that is the scariest part of Wizard of Oz.
Yeah, when that mean ole' witch turns the giant hourglass over on Dorothy & yells that she's gonna steal her new shoes & her little dog too. ohhh - it gives me the creeps!
And despite, or maybe because of, Belle's classic taste in movies, the head master was impressed enough to grant admission to his Academy for Belle. And she was so proud of her new uniform that first day. She didn't even get mad when she waved goodbye to her dad, doing the only thing he ever did anymore.
Dude - you need to do that in the back yard. Or at least put some pants on! Hey Pao.
Oh, hi DW. I'm really thinking I should've taken that postal job in Strangetown. This is weirder even than those green folks they have living there.
So Dawn & Belle carry on, trying to live a normal life, while Dwight spends his days keeping the grass flat. And we'll just head up the street here to check in with Debra. Last we saw, she had just married Eman. And she spends a lot of her extra time entertaining her friends & painting non-clown pictures.
And evidently, one of her friends passed along a strong case of the bumps.
Don't be ridiculous! This is a honeymoon baby, even I know you can't "catch" pregnancy.
Thanks Deb. You just ruined this great running gag we've had going here for weeks.
Congratulations Deb! This is great news - boy, there's been a lot of babies born around here lately. Won't it be great if all our kids can go to school together & be friends?
Well, thanks Jamie. It seems like all I have lately is pregnant friends. Or relatives dropping by, looking for a hot meal *eyes Ahmal pointedly*
Listen bud, I'm really glad you feel comfortable here & even that you've chosen to hang around here for awhile, but I don't know that you should be coming over to the house for all your meals. Especially now that Deb's expecting, she's kinda touchy about her food lately.
But it's just so awesome coming over here - your house is always full of cute chicks and hot food! What more could a guy want?
How about a permanent mailing address? You know - a home of your own. Then you can have all the cute food & hot chicks that you want! Maybe something on campus??
hehe - You mean cute chicks and .. oh whatever dude! But I catch your drift, I'll try and make myself more helpful around here. And maybe you could give me the phone number for that cute red head next door?
What?? No. There's no red heads around here for you at all.
So, are any of you ladies single?
Eman?! I thought you were going to talk to him!!
I did! Honest. I'll ask him to leave right after dinner.
But Eman was a little preoccupied with his hobbies, saving the world, and looking for new ones. He spent long hours working as Captain Hero, and when he wasn't flying the friendly skies he was watching them.
(psst - Eman - why is that telescope pointed at the big green house next door??)
Deb - congrat's on the newest bump! How have you been feeling?
Honestly, I think I do nothing but sleep & eat these days. But you just had a baby, didn't you Auk? How did you manage the last few months? I swear, if I get any bigger, my belly-button will be in another time zone.
Well you do look like you're about ready to pop - I don't think you have much longer to worry about it.
OH MY God!! Ack! Auk was right - this baby's coming out now! Eman - you're a super hero - come over here & help me!
I'm coming, I'm coming... even Speed Racer can't wake up at the drop of a hat. Or a puddle of a water, as the case may be!
Oh Deb! She's beautiful! What should we name her? You want a Deb jr?
No thanks - girls don't care about having a name sake, silly. But she gives me hope for the future - what about Nadia? I like that name.
Nadia sounds great. Let me just get a snuggle in before I go back to bed.
You know, honey, I've been doing some thinking...
Yes? About what? *staring at the extra setting at the table*
Well, you know I've been working a lot of hours lately, and I think it's only going to get worse. I think we're going to lose another Hero to maternity leave & we'll all have to pick up the slack. And I don't like leaving you & Nadia here alone so much...
Have you told her the good news?
I was just getting to that. Um, honey?
Yes. You were just getting to good news?
I've asked Ahmal to move in. He's decided to stay in the area and it would be a great help for you around here, now that you've got Nadia to look after. And I would worry a lot less knowing that you two aren't alone in the house.
You know Nadia & I are fine on our own, but of course Ahmal's welcome to stay here, until he finds his own place. But I don't want a lot of wild parties, or strange women hanging about.
Now Deb - no worries! No parties, promise. I'm not much of a cook, but I can help out around here, really.
And of course, you'll be looking for work too, you'll eventually want to find your own place. Right?
Uh, yeah. Right. If you guys don't need me around here, of course I'll find my own place.
And so the days and weeks passed, with Eman working more & Ahmal flirting up every girl that came by the house. And the only thing he ever looked at in the paper was the comics.
ohmy, aren't you a breath of fresh air! You can't be a friend of Deb's, why - you're so young! You must be still in college!
Stop - you're such a tease!
And soon it was time for Nadia to celebrate her first birthday. They threw a small party for her, Eman was able to get home from work just in time to watch her blow out the candles on her first cake.
pwetty, pwetty mamma!!
AAAAAugh!! no baby - don't pull out momma's earrings! You've grown up so well - but I think we'd better teach you to talk first thing!
Sweetheart - I'll just be outside, keeping an eye on everything.
*sigh* Yes dear. Just like every other night. I swear, that telescope must've left a ring around his right eye by now.
And Eman probably should've taken a bit of a page from Dwight's book, and slowed down a little on the working so much. He missed most of Nadia's younger years. And Ahmal was actually pretty good about cleaning up his act and his beer bottles. He only had a couple of pizza parties that broke up early enough, and try as she might, Deb really couldn't complain. He was almost even almost helpful.
And little Nadia spun up to be a Cancer sim, with stats of 10, 1, 6, 9, 9, so somebody's going to be encouaging Outgoing for this little girl.
Hey baby girl! Time to learn how to use your big girl potty. This is going to be very important to know once you start school.
Fanks Unca 'mal! Why come you don't wear footy jammies, wike me??
uhhh, well, Uncles don't really want, er, need footy pajamas. We're just naturaly warm blooded.
So is Eman in the backyard already? I didn't even hear him get up this morning.
No, he's already gone to work. He skipped breakfast even. Do you want anything from the market? I think I'm going to run down & pick up some pajamas for myself. I don't want Nadia to be scarred for life because her uncle sleeps in his briefs.
So while Deb thanked her lucky stars for small favors, and Eman protected the world, we'll move on down the street to DW's house. There's another little girl that's growing up quickly there too. A very smart little girl...
Should that be tomato or tom-ah-to? I've heard the paid actors on TV commercials use both pronounciations.
Well, Selena, that's called a Regional Accent, and we'll study those a little bit tomorrow. Your vocabulary is growing by leaps & bounds.
Thank you Harold. You've really set a fine example for me to emulate.
And is my little princess ready to learn how to walk today?
Yes, please DW. I believe it will greatly reduce my travel time to the bookcase every morning. Oh, and tomorrow, can you please rotate out the bottom shelf again? I still can't get down the higher books without risking a cranial contusion.
And I appreciate the art lessons - do you like my impression of the Bengal tiger?
You mean your face paint? Did Harold help you with that?
Well, he provided me with the non-toxic, waterproof colors I requested and a few text books of the native African fauna to study from.
Oh, this is so embarrassing. I can't believe that I can't just learn this part from one of my books.
Finally! I'm done with that awful fake plastic recepticle. Now, if I could only figure out how to reach DW's telescope....
And the boys didn't throw a big bash for Salena's birthday. She was eager to get to school, so they let her have some cake for breakfast & drove her to her first day of kindergarten.
Make a wish sweetie! Would you like a new bicycle? A new doll?
I'm just looking forward to being tall enough to reach the telescope. And maybe DSL - really daddy, I mean DW, but dialup?
Yes! 5 digits for each hand, long legs, and animal print pj's to match my facial artistry!!
And Salena is a Libra, with stats of 4, 9, 4, 7, 6 - she must get her playfullness from her mom!
Harold, you really don't have to help me with this. I don't know that you're actually qualified to tutor the new math.
Humor me, sweetie. I like to feel like I'm helping you in some way. When we're done here, I'll give you those cooking lessons you've been asking about.
Oh Joy!! Harold - you are the best alternate parent there is!
Salena and Harold had to schedule their cooking lessons the afternoons, as DW was usually using the candy making equipment late into the night. He was really driven to learn all he could in the culinary arena.
And Harold had his own dreams of mastering the Mechanical field so he could fix any problem that ever came up. And so their days were peaceful & full of determination, as all three of them pushed to learn everything they could.
And did you know that we're one of the few remaining natural habitats for the purple throated swampwarbler? They migrate over 400 miles each year to build their nests here in the spring.
*slaps hand to forehead* Salena - I sent you out there in hopes of meeting a future mate, please don't scare him away just yet! *checks notes to see if Leo is a Knowledge sim*
Doesn't he just radiate enthusiasm & joy?! I swear, if these boys get any more serious, I'm going to dress them up & send them out trick or treating just for grins!! Nothing exciting ever happens around here..
Until one night, after everyone had lumbered off to bed an ear-splitting siren broke the silence of the quiet hood. Yes, despite Eman's tireless work, Russ Bear had been granted parole & he was up to his old tricks again.
Fortunately, the advanced training of the newest recruits meant that he didn't even get past the front door before he was aprehended. And what?? Who is this fresh faced, young recruit? Yowsa!!
*makes a note of Brian Burke, rookie beat cop, for future husband material*
Burke? Burke?!! Could it be a relative? - naw - there's not a banana in sight!
Is this New York information? I'm trying to get the number for the Romanian embassy please. Yes, I believe I need to file a missing persons report.
Oh, dear... I bet DW's left a certain note lying around and somebody *glancing at the short one* has put two and two together. Well, I guess, she was bound to figure it out sooner or later. Let's move on, shall we? There's a few houses yet to visit. Yes, I see another little bump just around the corner...
Hi! I don't think we've met - I'm Eman's brother, Ahmal. I just recently moved here & thought I'd better get to know my neighbors a little better.
Very nice to meet you Ahmal. You haven't been here long, you say? Do you know how to play strip chess?
I think that's enough lessons for your first night. You practice a bit at home & I'm sure you'll get better.
And Hel spent most of her maternity leave throwing parties. Mostly just casual get -togethers, but she got so much help from all of her friends and her loving hubby, that she never had to lift a finger. Everyone pitched in & helped around the house, cooking meals, cleaning and repairing anything that needed fixing. One of her most frequent visitors was Mickey Armstrong, since their hours were so different, it was hard to get together when she was working.
I'm going to miss coming over here for lunch when you have to go back to work, Hel. You are going back to work after the baby's born, aren't you?
Oh yes, as a Show Biz icon these days, I just can't stay out of the public eye for long. You understand that - people have short memories. Sometimes it feels like weeks have passed from one day to the next . And then the next few days will just fly by like that! *snaps fingers*
Argh!! Mickey - quick - go wake up Remnie - he's in the back bedroom, but I think he's going to want to be here! He'd better be here! aaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!
Oh Baby!! It's a baby! She's beautiful!! What do you wanna call her... Hel? Where are you going??
Honey - what are you doing?
Uhhh, I'm not done with this spin cycle yet! ahhhhh...
A little boy - ah, Remmie, you have a son too! Good thing we thought of names for each!
T . t.. t..twins?? Remington! You did NOT tell me that twins run in your genetic code! And did I get two aspirational spikes - No, I did not!
And Mickey, who had watched the whole process from the far corner, was stunned. And quietly he though to himself "Wow - she looks great for just having twins....". And this simmer rolled her eyes at the men who constantly swoon over ladies that are giving birth. Run along now, we're not naming either one after you!
And after a quick cuddle with both Anna and Byron, Remington headed out to the backyard for some quiet time. And he thought about all the dualities in the universe & how these twins provided them with perfect balance. And how he should buy another crib first thing tomorrow...
How's my perfect little girl this morning?! You know I think daddy's right, you're going to look just like me.
And daddy's big boy? hmm Sorry Remmie, but this one's going to look like me too. But I think you've got your daddy's ears...
And as Dagmar came by with the "Congratulations" cards for the twins the next morning, she was amazed to see Hel, chatting with friends on her phone and wondered to herself if she would ever have as many best friends as Hel. She must have at least 30 by now, judging by the amount of the mail.
Momma, if I learn to walk quickly, do you think you'd have time to buy me some clothes? I'm really kinda cold in this sash...
Tanks for helping me up daddy. Ummm, why are you wearing gloves?
Shhhh - don't tell your mom, but I like to put them on sometimes, for old times sake.
The twins were big news, and Hel's friends were lining up to talk to them & make friends with them.
And for their next birthday, Hel threw a big birthday party, making sure that each child had their own cake. And yes, that's Joe, showing up in his Llama mascot suit again. He thinks it's funny, but I think it scared little Byron there.
I wish I get my own room, I wish I get my own room!!
I wish I could get rid of these mittens. I don't wanna wear gloves like daddy!
And what do you get twins for their birthday, when they already have everything they need? That's right a new NPC, and a black spot just over the stove. Honestly Remington, you were only making spaghetti & you've maxed your cooking skills already. Is someone distracted?!
Ah, just a thought, but maybe Somebody shouldn't hang paintings directly over the stove??!
Well, at least daddy didn't burn our pancakes this morning!
Yeah! And I'm starving, that cake last night didn't really fill me up. Race you to the school bus?
Anna is an Aries, and quite well-balanced - 6, 7, 5, 6, 3
Byron is also Aries (hello? twin!) though he's more outgoing - 6, 9, 5, 4, 4
And at the end of street, there's some more birthday confetti being thrown... it's time for Ivy & Russell's little girl Rosie to celebrate her birthday. Why are all my little girls growing up with shaved heads?! Maybe I should switch out the smart milk for some Hair Tonic!
Ivy! Take it easy with that confetti, wouldya please? Somebody's got to clean all that up, or she's going to be trying to eat it!
Calm down Russell, it's just birthday confetti! It'll disappear in a sim minute here. Oh, but my little girl has an urgent call, we'd best test out that new potty, hmmm?
I donno what dis is yet, but I'm soooo gwad it's hewe! Fanks mamma!
Now that little chore is taken care of, let's get you properly trained up - my little girl has to learn to walk around this big house of ours. I've got to get some milk that doesn't turn you green, it's not the best color for us red-heads.
Yes, I know momma's been taking good care of you & daddy's been working all week, but please try to say daddy! Come on princess.... Dad-dy!
Daddy! daddydaddydaddy!! *giggles*
Ok, I taught her to talk. Now can I get back to my surgical dummy please?! I've got a skill to max.
Russ, you look at me like that & I can't refuse you anything....
*snickers* Russell, you've been at the machine for so long, you've grown whiskers! Why don't you knock it off & get some sleep, so you're well rested for tomorrow.
Why? What's tomorrow?
Ahhhh - this is tomorrow! I get it! Woot, what a red letter day for me! I've reached the pinnacle of medical success! Ivy - throw a couple of steaks on the grill, we're going to celebrate!
You hafe red hair too. Does everybody 'round here hafe red hair? I bet aliens don't hafe red hair. I bet they're just mean & ugly.
Hey shortstuff - don't talk like that! Haven't you ever seen ET? oh wait - he was kinda ugly. But not mean. Maybe Lilo & Stitch, that's more your speed. Noooo, he was pretty mean & ugly at the beginning. hm, I guess you're right, aliens are mean & ugly.
I wish for a ... a.... a haircut please!! And maybe a perm. sheesh, this hair is awful! *blows*
I wish for Aliens. And maybe some little Russell Jr's running around here reeeeeally soon!
Ivy, I heard the strangest voice last night talking about us having more children... you haven't forgetten to tell me anything, have you? No little calls from the morning sickness fairy, right??
No Russ, the only call I've made is for the Headmaster. Don't forget, he's coming over tonight. And don't worry about the more kids thing, I'm not secretly spinning children wants, and if you're not, we should be ok.
Momma, I was kinda wanting a little brother... does that count?
Oh snap!
R Icecream U watermelon?? Daddy, that makes no sense at all. Please make a super good dinner tonight so I can get out of this lame-o public school?!
Good afternoon Mr. Korey Jitmatsusomething. My momma had to work a little late, but she suggest that I show you around a little while daddy's cooking dinner. Have you seen the new fountain that popped up in the front yard today?
Between the tour & the food, they passed the HM visit, even without Ivy's sparkling smoozing, as she was working the late shift. Actually, her only shift as an Ecological Guru. He didn't even stay to have coffee. So Rosie donned her new school uniform the next day and both parents were ecstatic with the results.
Momma! Momma!! Look - my first day at my new school & I've got an A+ already!! I tole you that public school system blows cookie chunks!!
Excellent work sweetie! But tell me that's not an expression that you picked up at the Academy, because we don't really like to talk about blowing any kind of chunks around here.
And Rosie is another Aries, with stats of 6, 9, 6, 4, 6.
Will Dwight get a clue before Dawn gets fed up & kicks him to the curb?
Will Deb ever have a second baby, with Eman working so much?
What on earth does Salena think she's going to say to a Romanian ambassador?
Will Hel ever find out that Remington still misses his gloved days?
Will Russell get his wish at the telescope & hope that Rosie changes her mind about aliens being mean & ugly?!
Will we get through all of the families having babies and raising toddlers before this simmer goes bonkers from the green glow of the smart milk??
Thanks for joining us on another round of Simtoria - comments are always appreciated! ;)