Remember a while back I told you about a challenge to complete all the lifetime wishes in the Sims game? Well I've started it now and although I'm not writing an actual story to go with it I thought it would be nice to let you all know how it is coming along. So these posts are really more of a commentary of what's going on in the game as I play. However, just to make it a bit more interesting I'm gonna write it from the point of view of the founder and heirs/heiress'. Should be interesting hope you enjoy it.
When this challenge was first thought up by slynnski, there was 61 lifetime wishes. Since then 3 more were added with the new expansion pack. This figure will probably increase as time goes on and more expansion packs are added to the game. I'll try to keep you informed of this when it happens.
When this challenge was first thought up by slynnski, there was 61 lifetime wishes. Since then 3 more were added with the new expansion pack. This figure will probably increase as time goes on and more expansion packs are added to the game. I'll try to keep you informed of this when it happens.
So here we are then with generation 1. Our founder is Juanita Blanco. She is a pre-made sim I found living in the new town Appaloosa plains. I moved her into another town called Union Cove. I picked her because she has the same name as my sister who is a great fan of my stories. She always encourages me to write and is always on at me to get the next chapter out. Thanks G (her family nick name) for all you help. I have only made minor adjustments to her appearance but her traits, character and personality are as they were when I found her. I have no idea how she will behave in the game. One more thing I worked out this really cool way of giving my sims a unique date of birth, if I get requests I'll tell you how to do it. It will help to keep the family tree in order. Here is a link to that. Anyway since Juanita is the founder of our legacy she is born at the beginning of it. At the moment there are 64 generations so after a lot of calculations Juanita has ended up with a date of birth of 18th August 732. Sounds funny saying that 732, but that's what it works out to be, so let us begin.
WEEK ONE
Day one
OK Hi everyone as Karleen said my name is Juanita Blanco and I've just moved here to Union Cove. I'm a young adult, we sims don't have ages in years like you out there in the human world, but I guess I'd be around the 18 - 30 mark, if you want a comparison. We have a really unique way of going from one age to the next and maybe you'll get to see it later on in the story of my life. Well lets see... I'm an ambitious sim and very green thumbed, I'm a heavy sleeper, (which is just as well 'cause I'm gonna be sleeping outdoors for a while). What else... oh I'm a natural cook so my lifetime wish will be to become, A Celebrated 5 Star Chef. I dislike children, a bit of a disadvantage seeing I'm the founder of this legacy. Guess that'll add a twist to the challenge. I'm born under the sign of Leo so if you want to look that up you'll know what sort of character I have. My favourite music is R&B Food, Lobster Thermidor and colour, White. It's actually black and white check but we Sims are only assigned one colour choice.
So yeah...this is me and this is the plot of land I've just purchased which is empty. I started out with 16,000 Simoleons, that's the currency we sims use. The plot cost 14,700 so I only have 1,300 to live on 'til I find a job. As you can see there is a post box at the edge of my property and it is primarily there so that the town council can collect their bills. Everything costs even the taxi rides you just don't have to pay them up front as you do in the human world. When the bills arrive the charges will be in there, make no mistake. They will not be too bad to begin with but, as I improve the lot they will increase. So for now I've got me a sleeping bag and that's it for now.
Well I think I've waffled on enough time to get to work on this legacy and the first port of call is a job. So I'm off to the Bistro in town. That's one good thing about sim life you are guaranteed a job if you want it. All you have to do is turn up at the place where you want to work and they will take you on. However beware they can fire you if you are not up to scratch.
So here we have the bistro where I'll be working as a Kitchen Scullion a general dogs body in other words but it's a start and I don't intend to remain in that position, but it will do for now. Ok so my boss is a lady called Mye Thyme, yes we sims do have some strange names sometimes. She told me if I wanted to get anywhere in this business I had to work hard and eat, drink and sleep cooking. You can never know enough about it she said. Get some books and read all you can about it. Learn all the recipes you can and adapt them so they become your masterpieces. So I'm off to the book store to buy a book on cooking.
OK so here's the book store and I've got my book now to start reading. There's a nice park not far from my land so here I am reading my new cooking book. 
It's a study book so there are sections in it that tell you how far along you are in your study and what level you have achieved. I read enough to have reached level 1 by the time I realised I'd not had anything to eat. Another good thing about sim life is that there are lots of places where you can get the bare essentials of life, so you don't starve or die of exposure. So my next port of call was the town plaza. But on this occasion I didn't find anything to eat so it was back home and into sleeping bag.
That was day one
So yeah...this is me and this is the plot of land I've just purchased which is empty. I started out with 16,000 Simoleons, that's the currency we sims use. The plot cost 14,700 so I only have 1,300 to live on 'til I find a job. As you can see there is a post box at the edge of my property and it is primarily there so that the town council can collect their bills. Everything costs even the taxi rides you just don't have to pay them up front as you do in the human world. When the bills arrive the charges will be in there, make no mistake. They will not be too bad to begin with but, as I improve the lot they will increase. So for now I've got me a sleeping bag and that's it for now.
Well I think I've waffled on enough time to get to work on this legacy and the first port of call is a job. So I'm off to the Bistro in town. That's one good thing about sim life you are guaranteed a job if you want it. All you have to do is turn up at the place where you want to work and they will take you on. However beware they can fire you if you are not up to scratch.
So here we have the bistro where I'll be working as a Kitchen Scullion a general dogs body in other words but it's a start and I don't intend to remain in that position, but it will do for now. Ok so my boss is a lady called Mye Thyme, yes we sims do have some strange names sometimes. She told me if I wanted to get anywhere in this business I had to work hard and eat, drink and sleep cooking. You can never know enough about it she said. Get some books and read all you can about it. Learn all the recipes you can and adapt them so they become your masterpieces. So I'm off to the book store to buy a book on cooking. OK so here's the book store and I've got my book now to start reading. There's a nice park not far from my land so here I am reading my new cooking book. It's a study book so there are sections in it that tell you how far along you are in your study and what level you have achieved. I read enough to have reached level 1 by the time I realised I'd not had anything to eat. Another good thing about sim life is that there are lots of places where you can get the bare essentials of life, so you don't starve or die of exposure. So my next port of call was the town plaza. But on this occasion I didn't find anything to eat so it was back home and into sleeping bag. That was day one
Day two
Woke up at 10am fully rested but very hungry. Something chewed up my paper while I slept, curse that heavy sleeper trait, so I recycled it. 
I called my boss to check start time. I don't know anyone else and I really needed someone to talk to. Look at all this land I should do something with it. I decided to start my own garden. But I had no seeds. Here in sim life you can find things like that all over the place so I went off to look for seeds. I searched and searched but didn't find any by the time I had to go to work. I met co-worker Shaun Ody the line cook. I finished my first day and earned 149 Simoleons. Now I know one more person, Shaun.
I needed to bathe desperately so I went to the gym. 
The water felt so good. Then it was back home and into sleeping bag.
I called my boss to check start time. I don't know anyone else and I really needed someone to talk to. Look at all this land I should do something with it. I decided to start my own garden. But I had no seeds. Here in sim life you can find things like that all over the place so I went off to look for seeds. I searched and searched but didn't find any by the time I had to go to work. I met co-worker Shaun Ody the line cook. I finished my first day and earned 149 Simoleons. Now I know one more person, Shaun. I needed to bathe desperately so I went to the gym. The water felt so good. Then it was back home and into sleeping bag.
Day three
Woke up at 10 again. This time in desperate need of some fun. 
This time I called Shaun and chatted for a while. 
I needed to do something other than just got to work so I went to a karaoke bar.
There was hardly anyone there so I had a go. I wasn't very good but it was fun and yeah you guessed it as soon as I start singing sims started to arrive. Well they didn't boo me off and a couple were even dancing. But, time really does fly when you're having fun and before long it was time to go to work. Today I met Wyatt Halliwell another kitchen scullion like me, Hebe smith the vegetable slicer and Lori Dreamer the spice runner. I was given an assignment to come to the restaurant in my own time with a companion. Shaun was not in work today so I called him as soon as I left work.
I figured I could complete the assignment with him as I didn't know anyone else. But I needed to build up a relationship with him first. I earned 150 Simoleons today and as was beginning to be the norm went to the gym to bathe, but I decided to work out on the thread mill first. 
Fell a couple of times though. Then into the shower and home to bed...I mean sleeping bag.
This time I called Shaun and chatted for a while. I needed to do something other than just got to work so I went to a karaoke bar. There was hardly anyone there so I had a go. I wasn't very good but it was fun and yeah you guessed it as soon as I start singing sims started to arrive. Well they didn't boo me off and a couple were even dancing. But, time really does fly when you're having fun and before long it was time to go to work. Today I met Wyatt Halliwell another kitchen scullion like me, Hebe smith the vegetable slicer and Lori Dreamer the spice runner. I was given an assignment to come to the restaurant in my own time with a companion. Shaun was not in work today so I called him as soon as I left work. I figured I could complete the assignment with him as I didn't know anyone else. But I needed to build up a relationship with him first. I earned 150 Simoleons today and as was beginning to be the norm went to the gym to bathe, but I decided to work out on the thread mill first. Fell a couple of times though. Then into the shower and home to bed...I mean sleeping bag.
Day four
Woke up at 10:30 today slept in a little it's my day off today. I really must have something else to do apart from work and sleep, work and sleep. So thought I'd try the gardening thing again. Only this time decided to get a book. When I got to the book store I didn't have enough. Called Shaun and invited him to the karaoke bar.
He arrived in his work clothes and explained that he'd come straight from work and hadn't been home to change yet. He hoped I didn't mind. I didn't. We went in and sang a duet together. He was as bad as me, but we had fun together.
Before I wasn't even sure he was going to come let alone sing. We were getting along well. I discovered he was ambitious like me.
We went upstairs and played space invaders. I was enjoying the evening so I casually suggested we go back to the restaurant to get something to eat. He agreed. Then as we were talking we both realised we were trying to do the same thing. We'd both been given the same assignment. We laughed at how similar we were.
We ate together and then watched the stars right there in the restaurant outside eating area, and what do you know he was a natural cook like me too.
It was well into the morning before we finally said goodbye. Now I not only had a friend, I had a good friend.
He arrived in his work clothes and explained that he'd come straight from work and hadn't been home to change yet. He hoped I didn't mind. I didn't. We went in and sang a duet together. He was as bad as me, but we had fun together. Before I wasn't even sure he was going to come let alone sing. We were getting along well. I discovered he was ambitious like me. We went upstairs and played space invaders. I was enjoying the evening so I casually suggested we go back to the restaurant to get something to eat. He agreed. Then as we were talking we both realised we were trying to do the same thing. We'd both been given the same assignment. We laughed at how similar we were. We ate together and then watched the stars right there in the restaurant outside eating area, and what do you know he was a natural cook like me too. It was well into the morning before we finally said goodbye. Now I not only had a friend, I had a good friend.
Day five
Slept for most of the day, another day off. 
When I finally woke it was well into the afternoon and man did I need a shower, and I was so hungry I didn't know what to do first. Well nobody likes a smelly sim so I decided to head to the gym first.
I showered and as luck would have it there was a fully stocked kitchen. so I had some canned soup which was really good.
While I was eating Shaun rang and we chatted for a while. I still hadn't found anything to plant yet.
I exercised on the trampoline before going home. Although I wasn't sleepy I was working tomorrow albeit in the afternoon.
So after getting a juice from the fridge I headed home. I had fun at the gym but it would be nice to be able to have fun at home. But, who was I kidding I didn't have a home just a lot of land and not enough money to put anything on it.
When I finally woke it was well into the afternoon and man did I need a shower, and I was so hungry I didn't know what to do first. Well nobody likes a smelly sim so I decided to head to the gym first. I showered and as luck would have it there was a fully stocked kitchen. so I had some canned soup which was really good. While I was eating Shaun rang and we chatted for a while. I still hadn't found anything to plant yet. I exercised on the trampoline before going home. Although I wasn't sleepy I was working tomorrow albeit in the afternoon. So after getting a juice from the fridge I headed home. I had fun at the gym but it would be nice to be able to have fun at home. But, who was I kidding I didn't have a home just a lot of land and not enough money to put anything on it.
Day six
Woke up early, time to make some more friends, so I called Hebe.
Next I went to visit Shaun. We talked for a while then had a pillow fight. Shaun was just so easy to talk to, we were best friends now. I could talk to him about anything.
Next I went to visit Shaun. We talked for a while then had a pillow fight. Shaun was just so easy to talk to, we were best friends now. I could talk to him about anything. 
I was sitting in his lounge reading a book when I realised it was time to go to work. Time really does fly in simland. I changed into my work clothes and left. 
Both Shaun and I got recognition for our date last night, although the boss said next time we were to find someone from the general public. We laughed about that later. I earned 144 simoleons today and Shaun got promoted to Pastry Chef. I was determined to learn about gardening and had enough money now, so I visited the book store and purchased the first in the course. As I came out my phone was ringing. It was Shaun, asking me to come over to his place to hang out. 
When I got there I saw some plants in his garden which he said I could harvest. Just the gathering of them made me realise how much fun gardening was and now that I'd done it I couldn't wait to plant something on my own land.
Day seven
Again I woke up smelling like a jock after a good game, so it was back to the gym for a shower. All this backwards and forwards was beginning to get a little tedious. I hope I can get enough simoleons soon to do something about it. But, for now I was glad we had these free services here in Union Cove. I showered quickly got myself some bread and jam then sat to start reading my gardening book.
It wasn't long before it was time to go to work. Again I was asked to bring someone to the restaurant and warned not to come with any other employee. As I was leaving the boss told me I'd been promoted to spice runner and gave me a bonus of 300 simoleons. Wow I was sure I could do something at home with that. However I am just too tired to think about it right now.
I'll just say this to all you out there in human land, I'm ok, I've made it through my first week. I haven't starved and I've made some friends, so yeah, I'm doing ok. Don't forget to check in again for my next week in Union Cove. Until then goodnight.
WEEK TWO
Day one
Slight change of routine today. Woke up at 10am and went to park.
Cooked and ate hot dogs, then over to gym to shower. Called Shaun to go to Karaoke bar but he was busy so went alone.
When I got there someone was already singing. Stood and watched for a while. I just got on for my turn when I had to leave to go to work.
Here I am after my shift in my new uniform.
Now that I'm home, just so you can get a better idea of how big the lot is here it is in its entirety. All the checked area is my land,
and from the other side. Just thought you might like to see it. Anyway I left work and as usual I was tired. I was falling a little behind on my studies of cooking. I should have been on level four for the promotion I received, but I was only on level two.
So I decided to catch up a little. Had to do it standing up, don't even have a chair. I don’t know who that strange dog is or where it came from, but it looks peaceful enough so I’ll leave him. I managed to increase my skill to level three before hitting the sleeping bag.
Day two
Woke up at 9:30 See the flag on the post box it's up so that means the post man has been.
I recycled the old newspaper then checked to see how much I owed the town council. Well that's not so bad, only $1.
Better pay it though, can't afford for the repo man to take away my one and only possession, my sleeping bag.
Now down to the gym for a shower and cereal for breakfast, and it's already 1:00pm. Well at least I had the good sense to dress for work. So now breakfast is over it's off to work. I earned $192 today.
Called an acquaintance that I’d met at the bar and chatted for a while. I needed to build up a relationship with him so I could go to the restaurant with him as part of my assignment. Then I called Shaun for a chat too, and that was my day.
Day three
Woke up at 9 today and headed for the park. It was early and not many sims about.
Had some fun on the swing, took me back to my childhood days.
Shaun came to join me all dressed up. I wonder where he’s been. We had a chat. I found out a few more things about Shaun, he was an aries which was compatible with my sign.
I began to flirt with him and he flirted back. Then it was time for work again. I said a quick goodbye in a flirty sort of way
and rushed off.
I earned $210 today. Things are beginning to look up.
When I arrived home I called Shaun and invited him over. I was keen to continue our chat from earlier. I did like him a lot.
I greeted him with a handshake when I really wanted to kiss him.
I decided flowers would speed things up a bit.
We ended up watching the stars together.
It was getting late so I asked if he wanted to sleep over in a sleeping bag under the stars we had just been watching.
He said yes and had his own sleeping bag. So we bagged up for the night.
Day four
It’s my day off today so I’m hoping I’ll be able to spend it with Shaun.
As we woke up together I asked if he’d slept well and would he like to spend the day with me. He said yes he had and that would be very nice. So first I took him through my usual routine. Gym for shower and breakfast. He didn’t seem to mind.
Then we went to the karaoke bar. We chatted outside for a while then decided to go see a movie. I enjoyed the movie and suggested we go for a quiet meal. Not at work but a quiet cafe away from the crowds. Shaun agreed.
I had fish and chips he had a hamburger.
Then we danced together.
I thought things were going well.
I told him I liked him and he seemed to respond, but then I leaned in to kiss him and it all fell apart. He rejected and left the cafe.
I went home and to bed.
Day five
I’d had a late night and a bad date so I was quite ready to sleep in today, but at 8:56 my phone woke me up.
It was work giving me another assignment; I declined the offer,
then called Shaun and invited him over.
While I was waiting for him I began to recycle the news papers, but he arrived before I could put the first one in the bin. He presented me with a beautiful bunch of red roses.
We flirted then another bunch of flowers. I decided to take a different approach and ask him to move in with me. To my surprise he said yes. He said he’d been having trouble with his house mates and would be glad of the change. He didn’t seem to mind that there was nothing on the lot. He said he liked the idea of building something from scratch.
We went to the karaoke bar for the evening and sang together.
Then Shaun went on the phone and I sang with Terrel York. The evening began to deteriorate so we went home. This moving in together is not all it’s cracked up to be.
Day six
Woke up at about 10 and took Shaun through the routine at the gym.
Then it was time for work. There was something wrong. Shaun was not the lovable friend that he’d been when we first met. I had to find out what was going on. I earned $192 today and Shaun brought home $594. Two working is definitely better than one.
After work Shaun was talking on the phone to his brother. I was too tired to question him so we went straight to sleeping bag.
Day seven
I woke early and sat and watched Shaun sleep, thinking what could possibly be wrong.
When he woke I asked him.
He confessed that he was having a hard time with his girlfriend when we met and they were kinda broken up. When I came on to him he went along with it in the hope of moving on. But now he’d just found out that she’d had a baby boy. "I didn't know", he said "she kept her pregnancy a secret. It was my brother that told me, but I do want to be a part of my son's life." So that's what all the phone calls were about? "Yes" he said.
I decided that up until now no harm had been done and that we could just be friends. He wasn't too pleased about that but accepted it. I think he thought that we'd still carry on the way we were. I don't think so buster. When we went to work there was an atmosphere. He earned $593 today and I earned $188, a promotion and a bonus of $384. Things were definitely on the up and up. I was now a vegetable slicer. When I got home that evening Shaun was gone. He’d moved out. Well that’s it for week two, very eventful. I hope week three isn’t such a roller coaster.
Author's note.
There really isn't a sign that I can use to represent Simoleons so I've used a crossed out dollar sign as this is the nearest to the sign used in the game. So when you see $ think not dollar, because it's crossed out, ah yes Simoleons.
WEEK THREE
Day 1
My routine began as normal at the gym only it started around 5am.
Day 2
Couldn’t sleep, bought a Popsicle from the ice cream van, although I’ve no idea why it would be here at 5am. Went to park to eat it and again have no idea why. Things like that happen in Simland, we are just compelled to do things which make no sense at all sometimes.
Day two
Planted apple and lettuce seeds and tended other plants.
Day four
Day five
Another day off. Woke up at 8:30 showered and had cereal for breakfast.
Day six
It was back to work today. I was doing well, but my skill in cooking was beginning to lag behind a little. It was time to step it up a notch.
Day seven
I was very tired after my night out, so slept most of the morning. Woke up at 10:30. Spoke briefly to Jerome on the phone. I
So I slept over.
WEEK FOUR
Day one
Woke up feeling relaxed and refreshed, even though it was only 3:30am.
I went home. I’ve got to get myself a bed. Now that I’ve had a taste of it there’s no going back to that old sleeping bag. I had a few Simoleons so I got it straight away.
It was nothing extravagant, but it was comfortable.
As I snuggled down I could feel myself drifting off even though I wasn’t really tired.
I woke again at 10am, made breakfast and cleaned up from the day before. Working hard and getting that promotion took me to the next level in my cooking skill, but I was still a ways away from where I should be. I was currently on level 5 and had two more levels to catch up.
My garden had been neglected and I just had a few minutes to pay it a little attention before heading off to work.
The rest will have to wait until later. When I arrived at work I heard the news that Wyatt Halliwell had passed away. It was very sad, but he had lived a long and happy life. I was also asked to stay late today, which I did and earned $376 for my trouble. Plus we all got along even better now having pulled together to help out.
I went straight home after my shift and into bed.
Day two
Woke up early 8:30, not tired at all. This bed has really made a difference.
Today my little garden has finally borne fruit. I harvested it, at last my very own produce. I’ll be able to sell it to the local grocery store. Although gardening is hard work,
weeding, fertilising
and watering, it is also fun and I love it.
Now for a quick shower and change ready for work.
That’s better, now a quick snack.
Ok the car has arrived but just need to pay bills before I leave, $16 now, and so off to work. Shaun was having yet another party, a formal one this time. If I can make it I will go. I could use a bit of fun in my life about now.
I earned $282 today and went to the party and prepared a home cooked meal. It was one of those parties where everyone mostly stood around and chatted or listened to the specially laid on entertainment.
So I watched the entertainment,
and some TV. for a bit, the cooking channel of course. Well... might as well learn while you’re having fun. I had fun at the party even though I didn’t see Shaun, then it was home to bed.
Day three
Woke refreshed and attended Garden, more produce.
Harvested my first apple from my tree
and planted another tomato plant. No time for a shower, ate an apple quickly then
off to work. I heard that Shaun had hooked up with a new girl, Deborah, and perhaps it’s for the best. Jerome just had a baby with Wanda. There doesn’t seem to be anyone out there for me.
Day four
My day off today is all about having fun and it began early at 8:30.
First order of the day, tend garden. Next shower and change to go into town to sell produce, got $69 for them. Called Terrel for a chat.
Met Shaun and had a chat, he was still my best friend but, that was all it could be. He was with Deborah now and happy by all accounts. He was also very much involved with his son, even though he and his mother had moved on and were not together. I was not having much fun so I went home. Tidied up a bit then headed out again.
This time to Port a Party, a new hangout for me, needed a change of scenery and atmosphere. The place was deserted. Played on the pool table and later
met Henry Caldwell. Don’t think there will be any romance there he’s a bit old. Anyway hung around for a bit then went home. Nothing eventful today.
Day five
Slept in until 11:00, then looked after garden.
Bought a sprinkler to make the watering easier, and its fun to play in too.
Salad for lunch, made bed and read paper.
Mick’s Karaoke was one of the places to be tonight, along with The Grange and The Hoi Polloi Event Centre, according to the news. Oooh I’m spoilt for choice now. Better tidy up and head out to one of them. I picked The Grange.
I went straight to the dance floor to strut my stuff.
I called Terrel and told him how much fun the place was.
He was there in no time; we danced...
and danced ...
and talked together for the rest of the night.
Terrel was the captain in the local football team. He was ambitious and wanted to be a superstar one day he said. So far so good, now home to bed.
Day six
Back to the old grind and routine. Had a late night so slept until 10:00.
Ate some fruit for breakfast, it was delicious, and then worked in garden.
Planted another apple tree, then off to work.
I have a feeling a promotion is on the cards today, so didn’t work so hard, and kinda took it easy doing just enough to secure the promotion. Today is the first time I’ve been able to take it easy at work. I have to learn the recipe for fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches. WOOHOO YES! I’ve been promoted to Line Cook. I earned $262 and got a bonus of $564.
I’m now half way to completing my lifetime wish. I’m off to the bookstore to purchase a recipe book for the sandwiches. Yay, finished book, will get reward at work tomorrow. Now home to bed.
Day seven
By now I think you’ve got the pattern of my work day, so I’ll just say same work routine from now on unless anything changes.
I was given a great onion today and told to plant it in the hopes that the produce from it will be an upgrade, an excellent onion. Rushed home to get started before going to bed.
So that’s week no. four finished and I'm doing better than alright. Still haven’t found anyone to settle down with but there’s still time... I think.
WEEK FIVE
Day one
No rest for the wicked. Woke up at 8:30, called Terrel for a chat, called Henry too. Might as well I haven’t spoken to him since meeting him at the club. Oh drat a glitch in my life, it happens sometimes here in Simland.
Post box is not working so I can’t pay the bills, so the repo man has come to reposes stuff. Lucky it’s only a chair. That I can replace.
There, upgraded it too.
Oh look my second apple tree is doing great.
Time for work. I worked hard today, to make up for the other day. Boss said if I keep it up I’d be promoted again in half the time. Earned §462 today, funds are looking good now, won’t be able to retire just yet but §3,323 in the bank is not to be sneezed at either.
Called Terrel after work but he was busy.
Brought home leftover surplus cookies, they were so good I wanted to learn the recipe.
Looked after garden before going to bed.
Oh dear my tomato plants have died will have to dispose of them in the morning.
Day two
Up at 10:00am, had fruit for breakfast, then worked in garden again.
Got a recycling bin and put dead plants in.
Then replanted new tomatoes.
Next harvested fruit, second apple tree is big and strong, not quite ready to put forth fruit, but it won’t be long.
Fertilised all plants too.
I finished Just in time for work. I worked hard again today and made it to the next stage in my career.
I earned §442 for the day and a bonus of §1,0008 along with a promotion to Pastry Chef. I’m an actual chef now. I make the pastries, I’m in the home straight now, the first rung of the chef ladder. Can you tell I’m a little excited? Kerching things are looking more than good, with my land and the few possessions I have I’m worth a total of §21,392. That’s §5,000 more than when I started. So yeah I think I have something to be excited about. I called Terrel straight away to tell him the good news.
When I got home post box was working again, so paid bills. §17.
The surplus food today was my favourite, Lobster Thermidor.
Must clean up when I’m done, then shower and just enough time to have a little fun with the water sprinkler, and off to bed.
Day three
10:00am start and the usual routine, tend garden, fruit for breakfast and off to work. My new apple tree is now bearing and the fruit is of excellent quality. Earned §518 today. Called Terrel again but still he was busy. We are only friends but I find myself thinking about kissing him.
When I got home I found the sink had sprung a leak. Had to call a plumber, but I’m off to bed in the sure knowledge that it will be fixed by morning.
Repair men/women come whenever you call them in Union Cove and repair your stuff, they deduct their pay straight out of your funds no questions asked.
Day four
My day off today, but thanks to my bed I’m up early fully rested. I called Terrel and invited him over.
Had a bit of a tidy up while waiting for him. Then he called back and said something came up and he couldn’t make it. Hmmm...
Worked in the garden, first tree died, so I planted a new one in its place. Then it was a quick shower and off to town.
First stop grocery store to sell produce. Got a good price §309.
Then the bookstore for the recipe book for cookies. Time for dinner, went to the bistro. Nice to be on the other side of the restaurant, ate inside. Called Terrel who was still busy, then went home to bed.
Day five
Next morning I got up early and went to visit Terrel.
I got the shock of my life on arriving at his house. I rang the bell but no one answered.
I peered through the window I didn’t recognise the Sim in the dinning room but he could see me but ignored me.
I went around the back and looked up at the first floor there was Terrel with who could only be his wife, he was married and had a family. Serves me right for not asking the question. I was devastated.
I ran from the house and went to a bar where I spent the rest of the day. There doesn’t seem to be anybody in this town for me.
As I paced back and forth I took stock of any suitors I knew and gave them a quick call. There was Henry, and Daryl, I only met him once but called him anyway, I was feeling a little desperate I guess.
I met Aleksey Lachmore he worked at the bar and flirted shamelessly with him. He rejected my advances. I’ve got to find someone to settle down with soon. The bar was dead so I was spared the embracement of witnesses to my improper behaviour. It wasn’t long after that I went home. I’ve got work tomorrow and need to sleep.
On arriving home I discovered the toilet was now blocked and I had to call the plumber again. It costs §50 to call for any kind of repair, but they will fix all repairs for that price. Why couldn’t the toilet break at the same time as the sink. Just my luck, to add to the list of mishaps today. Well at least it will be fixed by morning and perhaps tomorrow will be better than today.
Day six
10am start today with bread and jam for breakfast, then looked after plants.
I have to replace grapevines but they will have to wait until later, it’s time for work. While at work I got an invitation to a party. Noelle Cordovait’s party. I could use a little fun in my life right now so I’ll go even though I’m feeling a little strained. I might meet someone interesting. I don’t remember meeting her but she must have been at the formal party that Shaun had, because according to the word around town she is not short of a few Simoleons. Why would she be inviting me to her party, I’m not anybody special, heck I can’t even find a partner in this town. I guess now that I’m a chef that must give me some standing in various circles. See it is good to be worth something, I guess my vast land suggests I also have some standing in the community. I earned §744 today and it was as much as I could do to get home shower and change for the party, which was a bit slow.
However, I did meet a colourful character called Peregrine De D’onlynpickle, well that was a bit of a mouthful, but he was pleasant enough.
I also met a guy called Frank Williams, that was a bit more normal.
We chatted for a while and danced together. It was well after two when I left and nearly four when I fell into bed.
Day seven
After the late night last night I decided there was no way I was going to make it into work. So I took a day off without pay. I think I can stand it for now.
Woke up still a bit groggy and called work, then looked after garden.
Replaced grapevine, harvested and fertilised everything else. Still no sign of that onion yet.
Had some fun with the sprinkler. I got another invitation to a party. This time it was Hannah Smith-Star’s formal do. Word certainly seems to be getting around about me somehow, it seems like everyone who is anyone wants me at their function. So it was back to bed so that I’d be fully rested for the event.
I arrived at the address and WOW!! Hannah’s place was amazing. She must really be somebody.
Hannah came out to greet me. Just after I arrived, Frank who I met the night before also arrived. The house was huge I didn’t see Frank again for a while, but there were a few Sims I knew. The colourful guy was there and Noelle, I guess the same Sims will be at the same parties, they just went around doing the circuit as it were. Here again Sims were standing around chatting, then at 11pm as if on que they all left, very strange.
I caught up with Frank, he was on the trampoline in his swim trunks. Wow! he is buff I thought.
It was after midnight and Hannah asked him to leave.
Then there was just me wandering around this huge mansion.
I cooked some hot dogs before going home. Another late night, well at least I got a taste of how the other Sims live, the rich ones that is.
So another week has come to an end. Things are going well in almost all aspects of my life, except the relationship part but I’m still hopeful where that is concerned. There are possible suitors I just have to decide which one, and work on him. I now have some rich friends and am wanted in very high up circles. I’m worth a staggering §31,217 and am just over half way in my quest to become A Celebrated 5 Star Chef. Oh by the way... I had my birthday..., while I was at Hannah’s house, I’m sorry you missed it. I’m now a fully mature adult, thirty something in your human world and the clock is ticking.
Author’s notes
I have finally found the symbol used in the game to represent Simoleons, §.
I’m really sorry I was not able to show you Juanita’s birthday. It happened right outside the gates of Hannah’s house, just as Frank arrived. Unfortunately a glitch in the game had them both occupying the same space. They were kinda mingled together as one person with two heads and double arms and legs, very weird. Any way there will be other opportunities I’m sure.
WEEK SIX
Day one
Day two
Usual routine and went to work. Today was an easy one at work and I made it to the next level. I am now a Sous Chef. I got a bonus of §1,620 on top of my day’s pay of §652. I’m going out to celebrate. Went to the karaoke bar.
Had to pay bills first though.
When I got there Frank was singing and he too didn't do very well. In fact he was being heckled by a few of the onlookers, even a dog was there howling at the top of its lungs, although why there was a dog in the bar I have no idea.
I was in a good mood and like I said I was celebrating so I ordered a round of drinks for everyone. The barman handed them out.
I talked to Frank after he finished his song. I tried to make him feel better. I told him not to worry everyone sucks at karaoke, as long as you are having fun that's all that matters. I don't know where the time goes it was now closing time and I was so tired. 4am and just going to bed.
Had to pay bills first though.
Day three
Day four
The next day we slept through most of it. In the evening I showed frank the garden and told him about my plans.
He said he wanted to be an international spy and was working towards that.
He helped me harvest the fruit and as we worked together we talked. Finally I got the onion I needed to take to work.
Frank turned on the sprinkler and soaked me,
so I joined in the fun,
but I really needed a shower
and he joined me for that too.
Frank went back to bed while I took the produce to the Grocery store. I got §425 for them. As I came out my mind began to wander, I was thinking about Frank. Yes I think I’ve found my other half, but just to be sure I’d have to ask him out on a date.
We didn’t go anywhere
just made out a lot
and had a pillow fight.
Then I asked him to move in with me, and he said yes. It was then that he told me that he’d been watching me for awhile.
It was he who’d arranged for me to be invited to the parties. I was flattered and pleased that he felt the same way I did. Frank moving in greatly increased our funds. Our funds, I like the sound of that, no more me or mine it was now us and ours.
Day five
We’d been having so much fun we hadn’t realised it was morning. I went back to bed while Frank went to get a job. He hadn’t got one yet as he’d just move to Union Cove and was too busy trying to get with me. He came back having landed himself a position as a snitch at the local police force. It’s a start and just like me he didn’t intend to stay there.
When he came back we started on a little home at the back of the property.
It wasn’t much just a bedroom really with an en-suit bathroom.
No more sleeping outdoors, not when there’s two of you, what would the neighbours say.
We got a nicer bed and a shower with a bath.
Here are some pictures from different angles.
We added a few counters to the kitchen and a stove so we could make proper meals now and of course a table for two. The kitchen is still outdoors for the moment but we like it like that.
Frank paid the bills today, they are creeping up now, §87.
I think he was pleased with the new furnishings.
It was nice having someone to share things with, so to bed in our new room.
Day six
After those couple of days off it was back to the same routine, breakfast gardening and work. But now there was two of us doing it.
There goes Frank on his first day of work. Frank finishes work at 3 and I start at 3 so I’m not sure when we will see each other as we don’t have the same days off. Can’t worry about that for now it’ll work itself out. Frank earned §238 today. Now that there are two of us there’s not so much pressure on me to work so hard. So I took it easy today. Still came home with §864 though, not bad. Between the two of us we are now worth §34,375.
Frank took me to Bronstead and Lawry today it’s our second date. Bronstead and Lawry is a kinda sports bar, we danced in the locker room. Why? Don’t ask that’s where the speaker was so we danced there. We didn’t stay long but it was still 2am when we left. Straight home and to bed.
Day seven
Work day for me but Frank has the day off.
I woke first, so went to the kitchen to cook breakfast. Our first proper breakfast, pancakes.
They were just ready when Frank arrived in the kitchen.
We ate together and then it was time for me to go to work. I’ll leave you with Frank today he can tell you about the things he gets up to. “What? No I can’t”
“Don’t be silly Frank Karleen won’t bite. Just describe what you’re doing, or thinking as she takes the pictures. Start by introducing yourself.”
Oh! ok... well I’m Frank as you know and I’m err... brave, yes that’s one of my good points but obviously not so brave when it comes to things like this.
I’m ambitious like Juanita but you already know that too. So err... yes well that’s what attracted me to her you know. I like a woman who knows what she wants and goes all out to get it. I mean you’d have to be ambitious to take on a project like this single handed. I like that about Sims in general really. Err... what else, oh I’m quite the athletic type, but I guess you can see that too. I do like to keep in shape and look after my body. Oh and the most important thing about me is family. I want a family, two or three kids maybe, I love kids. Juanita says she doesn’t like kids but I’m sure she will love ours. Oh yeah she doesn’t know it yet but I want to marry her and settle down. I’ll be popping the question real soon.
Well I can’t stand here gassing to you all day got things to do like making this bed, feel free to follow me around. I’m quite a handy Sim so I’ll be useful to Juanita around the place.
I can fix most of our appliances so we’ll save on repairs bills.
So yeah that’s the end of yet another week. I can't believe it's been six weeks already. We are now worth §34,147 and heading for §50,00, that’s our goal. Frank finished his book so he will be getting no. two of the series soon.
WEEK SEVEN
Day One
(Juanita)
I woke up at 10 today, no time for gardening. Frank is not here, he left a note to say he has gone into town to buy the second book in the logic series. He’s so sweet and thoughtful, leaving a note I mean.
I did some recycling, that made me feel so good. Got to do my bit to safe guard our world’s resources.
You know these weeds are just a little too much; maybe I’ve just got time to do a little weeding before I go to work.
There, that looks much better. I guess the harvesting will have to wait.
(Meanwhile Frank had indeed gone to the book shop and got his book. He was busy reading it in a nearby park, when his phone began to ring.)
That was a local recruiter for the sports career. They were offering me a job, but, I’d have to leave my present job so I declined the offer. I'm hungry, the Blue Fire Interwebz cafe does a nice plate of fish & chips and I can get on the internet I need to arrange the maid for Juanita, or I could play computer games, I think I’ll go there for a late lunch, you coming? I guess so.
Hmm... hmm... they are really good. Just ordering makes my mouth water.
(A man came to join frank as he was finishing his meal. Frank was a bit put out by this and rolled his eyes.)
(Without speaking he got up and went to play video games on the computer.)
Wow is that the time, Juanita will be leaving work soon I’d better be heading home.
Home sweet home; there she is my sweet Juanita.
I’ll let her tell you about her day, but after I get my hello kiss.
“Hi Hun how was your day.”
“Well... Helloo Frank, that was unexpected. I earned §965 and got a very strange assignment. I think chef has gone nuts. I've been asked to plant a bad apple in the hope that it will produce more bad apples, then bring 10 of them into work.”
“Why?”
“Apparently the stew he’s invented tastes better with bad apples. I have a deadline so I’d better get to it.”
(Juanita)
I don’t want it anywhere near my garden so I'm putting it over here.
Now to harvest those plants before bed.
Awww, he’s already fast asleep.
Day Two
(Frank)
Well today is a work day for me, so 5am I'm awake.
After using and having to clean the toilet I decided it would be much better if it could clean itself. So I get to work upgrading it.
Oops, I've made a bit of a mess of that, gee look at the time I’ll have to finish this later.
Juanita is off today so I guess you’ll be spending the day with her, sorry must dash.
(Juanita)
Juanita’s phone was ringing it woke her up.
That was Shaun, you remember him, I thought he was going to be ‘Mr Right’; well we are just very old friends now so we still chat occasionally. (Juanita goes into the bathroom to get washed.)
Oh my goodness, just look at this mess, what on earth was Frank doing in here. It’s a good job we have another toilet. Well he will clean up his own mess when he gets home. Him and his DIY.
Right, now then breakfast. I think we've got some pancakes left over... yes here they are.
Ugh... they’re off, I’ll have to throw the rest away too.
Now what am I going to have for breakfast. Hmmm, bread and jam, delicious.
Well I've got to get on with my reading now, I'm a little behind and I do want that promotion.
(Frank gets asked to work late to improve his relationship with his boss.)
OK I've caught up a bit so time to do a spot of gardening I think.
This horrible sprout seems to be doing quite well. I just hope it produces the bad apples chef wants.
I do like looking after my little garden.
(time went on)
(more time passed)
I wonder where Frank is he should have been home before now.
OK here he is now. Why has he run into the house like that? What no greeting, no kiss. Something’s not right.
“Frank where have you been, I’ve been so worried.”
“Hold on Juanita I really must have a shower.”
“Phew... yeah I think you should. But first, where have you been?”
“At work Juanita, I worked an extra shift. I earned §319 and got promoted to desk jockey. I’ll go take my shower now.” Frank goes into the shower then I get an idea.
I get in with him and... Let’s just say I'm not annoyed with him any more.
When we come out and are fully dressed, Frank takes my hand and explains.
“Awwww baby you know I love you don’t you?”
“Yes I know.”
“Well everything I do is for you, for us and our future.”
“Oh Frank...”
“Come here, listen, I know our schedules have been a little hectic, but, this promotion means a pay rise. Just think we can start making a go of this place.” I had to agree with him. But what Frank didn't know was that I’d already come to this conclusion before our antics in the shower.
But, hearing it from him made me feel so much better... and so to bed all made up.
Day Three
(Frank)
I woke up at 7 with just enough time to throw some cereal down my neck before the car was honking its arrival.
The dishes from yesterday haven’t been done. Hmm... I must do something about that.
(Juanita)
Frank had already left when I woke. I saw his empty cereal bowl, along with my plate from the day before. It was disgusting. I decided to make waffles for breakfast.
They were very nice.
Then I washed up all the dishes, and put the rest of the waffles in the fridge.
Just enough time to garden, then off to work.
(Frank)
Well I had a good day today I earned §267. I came home with the intention of doing something for Juanita, to help her around the house.
She is working so hard on her career and doing very well, she is looking after the little garden out there; she can’t be expected to housework as well. I think we can afford to get a maid now, with both of us working I don’t think it’ll break the bank.
Yes I’ll give them a call, oh and I have to finish the toilet.
I am almost done upgrading it to self cleaning.
(Juanita)
So I get home having earned §777. That must be a good sign, all the sevens I mean.
Anyway Frank has two plates of waffles set out and I join him for our evening meal.
“So how was your day?” he asks.
“Oh it was OK I reply. You won’t believe I missed my next promotion by the tiniest bit. Then my boss had the nerve to say if I’d been a little further along with my study I’d have made it. Can you believe that? Me, who is always studying, me.” I didn't mean to have a rant really it kinda just came out. Frank sat and watched me patiently then started to tell me about his day.
“Well I've got a surprise for you. I've arranged some help so you don’t have to do housework. That’ll leave you more time to study.”
“Oh thank you, but can we afford it?”
“Yes I think so and... I've agreed to fix a stereo for sports fan, that's his nickname by the way, he hasn't said how much the job is worth but I'm not doing it for free. There are a few other Sims who have heard about my handy skills, so who knows there may be some extra Simoleons coming our way. Sport fan has already dropped it off. So I guess I’ll make a start on it before going to bed.”
“Oh thanks Frank you think of everything. I’ll stay up with you and study. That way I can catch up.”
So I went and got my cooking book and settled down to have a good read, while Frank worked on the stereo. I could hear his screwdriver clicking away and him making knowing sounds as he realised what went where.
(Frank)
OK, so as I'm fixing the stereo I'm thinking, Juanita is a little stressed out. I'm glad I arranged the maid that should ease the tension for her. I'm hoping I can get a few more odd jobs like this to tied us over while we’re concentrating on our careers. I've just got a promotion and I know the next is not far off, but I think I’ll have to make a bit more of an effort to get things going the way I plan. Between you and me I'm trying to get enough Simoleons, to buy her an engagement ring. Don’t let on to her though I want to do it properly, and they don’t come cheap. That’s why I've been grabbing every opportunity that I can, to make a little extra cash. I'm almost there, any day now I’ll be taking that little lady out on the town and doing the deed.
Well I guess that’s all I can do for now, I'm bushed. I need to get a part; I’ll do that after work tomorrow. As I walk passed Juanita she is so engrossed in her book, I don’t want to disturb her.
So I tiptoe past and settle down in bed.
Day Four
(Juanita)
I'm suddenly aware of it being very light. Frank’s screwdriver had long since stopped clicking. I looked around and it was daylight. I’d been reading all night.
As I make my way to our little house I see Frank clearing up old newspapers.
“Hi!” I call to him in passing and head for the bedroom. Today is my day off and it’s just as well because I'm now fully aware of how tired I am.
“See you later” I hear him call just as I drift off to sleep.
(Frank got another opportunity while at work. This time he has to go around the neighbourhood re-assuring Sims that there are police officers patrolling the area, if they should ever need them. This will put me in good stead with the boss, as well as extra cash, he thinks, so he accepts the assignment)
(Juanita)
I got up at 2pm, slept in for most of the day, a well earned rest.
Just in time to see the maid Frank had hired leaving. As I walk to the fridge, I noticed the dishes from last night had been washed up.
Yes, I could get used to this I thought as I prepared my veggie burgers.
Hmm... they were excellent even if I do say so myself.
When I’d finished I put the leftovers in the fridge. I don’t know where the time goes I swear, the sun was beginning to set. I needed to do a little work on the garden before the light was completely gone.
As I worked It was getting darker by the second. I begin to wonder where Frank is... again.
I turn on the sprinkler and move to the horrible sprout. It had turned into a tree. It will soon be ready to harvest. Well I don’t know where Frank is but I'm bushed so it’s off to bed.
As I enter the bedroom he is well in the land of nod. He is sleeping so peacefully I can’t wake him, but why did he not let me know he was home.
Day five
(Juanita)
Slept in again today, Frank already left for work when I wake. We seem to keep missing each other. I had waffles for breakfast, so now for some gardening.
Oh look, the horrible sprout... I must stop calling it that, for one it is not a sprout any more and two, it’s not horrible it’s a fine looking tree. Anyway it has produced apples, I wonder what quality they are?
Just as I'm having these thoughts I notice a fire down the street.
I run towards it and begin to try to put it out.
The fire brigade arrive and take over.
Just then the owner of the house comes home.
He shakes my hand and thanks me for my help in preventing his home from burning to the ground. A little dramatic and exaggerated, I think, but tell him “It was no trouble at all, what are neighbours for?” I also think I must remember to get a fire alarm. He introduces himself as Rob Carr-Kennedy, and invites me in.
“Make yourself at home” he says “Take a look around, see what you helped to save. You may find the view from the bedroom of particular interest.” This seems an odd thing to say to a practical stranger, although we are neighbours, we have never actually met, but as I enter I find myself wandering aimlessly around admiring his home.
I find myself in the bedroom for no apparent reason and look through the window. I suddenly realise I can see my property. I blush as I realise all the time Frank and I were fooling around out in the open, we were or could have been, being watched. But then I guess the neighbours across the street could also have seen.
I'm suddenly uncomfortable and make a hasty retreat as I see Frank arrive home. I call goodbye to Rob on my way out.
However, when I get home Frank is already fast asleep.
I have work tomorrow so I curl up next to him and have an early night. But, it’s a very early night; it’s only 3 in the afternoon.
Well that was a mistake because by 8pm I’m awake again.
I'm about to use the bathroom when my phone starts ringing. It’s Terrell; another would have been ‘Mr Right’.
I'm a little worried as to what he wants. But, after a few short pleasantries I make an excuse and hang up. I take a quick shower then realising I'm hungry start to make my way to the kitchen. In the mean time Frank is now awake and meets me in the bathroom.
He kisses me passionately and there’s no mistaking what’s on his mind so we end up back in bed again.
Day Six
When I wake next Frank is getting up for work. However, we are able to have breakfast together.
“I got another promotion yesterday” he begins “ I'm now a traffic cop.”
“That’s great Frank; I'm so pleased for you.”
“Yeah but not as great as what I have for you, come.”
He gets up and walks towards the garden, I follow. But before we reach the plants he stops, I take a few steps past him then turn to see why he has stopped.
He presents me with a bunch of red roses.
“Oh Frank, they’re lovely thank you so much, oh they smell gorgeous.” We spent a while flirting with each other and watching the sun come up.
“A sweet rose for my sweet Juanita. But that’s not all. I was going to take you out later and do this properly but when I got it I couldn't wait for you to have it.”
“What are you talking about Frank” I ask a bit puzzled.
Then he drops to the ground and I realise what is coming next.
“ I'm talking about this” he says and holds out a small box. When he opens it the sun catches the stone and it sparkles like the sun itself. It is almost blinding.
“Juanita, Cynthia, Sharon, Blanco, I love you and want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you do me the honour of becoming Mrs Frank Henry Williams?”
I was shocked, and just stood there; he took the ring still binging blindingly, out of the box, I nodded yes as I couldn't speak and he placed it on my finger.
Then I came to my senses and leaped into his arms, nearly knocking him over.
I hugged him for what seemed like an age. When he finally put me down he said “I have to go now but, I’ll see you later, you hold that thought until then.” He left me to go get changed into his new uniform. I was still standing in the same spot when he ran past towards the waiting car.
“I love you” he said. I couldn't reply but I did note how handsome he looked in his new uniform.
I don’t know where the time goes. I was so happy, as I went to do some work on the garden. Before long it was time for me to go to work too.
(Frank)
OK so here I am now at home after a good day at work in my new role as traffic cop. I feel I'm finally getting somewhere, doing some real police work.
I earned §329 and my boss tells me I'm well ahead in my study so my next promotion won’t be long. Things are going great, Juanita was really shocked when I proposed out of the blue like that this morning. I told you it wouldn't be long. It couldn't have gone better if I’d taken her out. I loved the way the light caught the stone and made it sparkle so brightly. You wouldn't have got that in the dark. I guess you can tell I enjoyed the moment too huh!
Anyway I've got to get this stereo upgraded as I promised or I’ll not get any more work. I got the part so it shouldn't take long to finish. I'm thinking if I can get the wedding out of the way we can start on our family. I guess she’ll want a grand affair, but I’d like something simple.
OK well I guess that’s it for today, time for something to eat I'm famished and so tired. I think I’ll just have some ice-cream, don’t tell Juanita, and then call it a night.
(Juanita)
Hi there, it’s good to be home. I can’t wait to tell Frank about my promotion, but I suspect he is already asleep. He’s been working so hard and now I know why. How about that I'm engaged, I'm getting married. Who’d have thought when I moved to Union Cove that in just a few weeks I’d have found my Mr Right... well I certainly didn't Mrs Frank Williams, it has a nice ring to it. Juanita Williams, yes I like the sound of that too.
I make my way to the bedroom and curly up next to Frank and fall instantly asleep.
Day Seven
We both wake up together, it’s nice to be able to spend some time together, but, we both need a shower so I suggest we take it together.
Afterwards we have waffles for breakfast and I tell Frank about my promotion.
“You know you’re gonna have to do some taste testing for me” I begin.
“Taste testing?”
“Yes with all the new recipes I’ll be creating.”
“Creating?”
“Oh Frank you can be so dense sometimes, I'm trying...”
“To tell me you got promoted, yeah I get it” he grinned “and it’s about time, you deserve it.”
I pouted for a moment, then continued. “Well my new position comes with something else you don’t know about. As an executive chef I have to improve the menu, I'm in charge of special customer requests and over see the direction of the restaurant. My boss has also said that he has given me one star on the celebrity status list. I earned §906 yesterday and a bonus of §2,100.” I was bragging a bit but I couldn't help myself.
“So I'm getting married to a celebrity eh? I think we’d better get that done as soon as possible before you are totally out of my reach.”
Frank was teasing me again, but I didn't mind his comment lead us on to the subject of the wedding. He gets up to do the dishes.
“How do you feel about that?” he asks “Do you want a big wedding?”
“Well I don’t know many Sims” I say as I walk towards the garden.
“Neither do I.”
“How about I take a few days off, in my new position I can do that, and we can go to the local venues to have a look, see what’s on offer.”
“Sounds like a plan” he says. I make a phone call to work to take some time off, which is granted as I tell them that I will be working on something very special. They just don’t know it’s my wedding. Just then the maid arrives so we leave the rest of the housework and head into town.
Our first stop was Pier Fun Oh Won. 
“Well this is nice Frank, with the ocean as a back drop.” Frank was not happy in case it rained. Next we went to the shack.
Frank liked this place better but I thought it was a bit cluttered.
I asked the barmaid if it was possible to move some of the tables. She said yes, but I still wasn't completely happy with this one. Frank was at the other bar ordering drinks. So after a quick one we headed for The Grange.
This was nice, the best of both worlds, it had outdoors as well as indoors.
We both liked this one so we stayed awhile dancing together. We were tired by the end of our day.
“Well that was a fun date” said Frank teasing a little, but I had to agree.
WEEK EIGHT (Preview)
Day One
(Juanita)
After a good night’s sleep, and breakfast, Frank and I decided to go looking at traditional church venues. Over breakfast we were both of the opinion that we wanted to get married as soon as possible. Although we didn't know a lot of people we thought a church or chapel setting was quite romantic. There are three in Union Cove, The Sophisticated Little Chapel, The Quaint Little Chapel and Union Cove Chapel. We visited them in that order.
“Oh...” I gasped as we stepped inside the Sophisticated Little Chapel.
“Well this is something” replied Frank. I don’t think he was as taken with it as I was but he made an effort for me.
“Something? it’s beautiful, it’s so pretty.”
We wandered around for a while taking it all in.
Next was the Quaint Little Chapel. This was a beautiful one as well.
We practised holding hands under the wedding arch.
The last one, Union Cove Chapel was nice, but it didn't wow me quite like the other two.
I didn't like the trees; I think they would hide the guests. However, on reflection since we didn't plan on having many guests it probably didn't matter.
I liked the grounds though and Frank promised to always protect me by the water fountain.
It was very romantic; who would have guessed this fit, buff guy could be so sweet, sensitive and romantic.
On the way home we talked about the venues we visited yesterday and the chapels today. We couldn't decide which to pick. There were pluses and minuses for all of them and every time we thought we’d come to an agreement one of us would say something in another’s favour. So we have decided to sleep on it. Maybe you can help which would you choose?
I explain that I'm getting married and give her a rough idea as to what I want my dress to look like. She listens to me intently, while studying my figure and making suggestions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WEEK EIGHT cont...
Day Two
(Juanita)
Today was a lazy day, Frank and I spent the morning in bed, sleeping I hasten to add. But, when we did surface we got straight to our chores. I tidied up the garden and Frank continued on the stereo. Being a handy Sim has really made a difference. He has made quite a few Simoleons fixing things for Sims all over the neighbourhood. We are getting married in a few days so every little helps, which reminds me I asked you all to help me choose my wedding venue. Well the votes are in and counted. It's been a long time since you were here a lot has happened I hardly know where to start. It probably feels like a couple of years to you since you were here last. Anyway the winner is...
The Sophisticated Little Chapel.
To tell you the truth it was my favourite too. So the day was drawing to a close, I decided it was time for bed. Frank was still working on the stereo so I went on ahead. I vaguely remember hearing the rain start as I began to drift off.
I’d just about reached that place; you know the one, not quite in dreamland but not fully awake either, when this stench like burning hair hit my nostrils. It was so strong it jerked me back and fully awake. I opened my eyes and sat up with a start, to see Frank about to get into bed covered in soot, with his hair standing on end. I rushed to him to find out what had happened.
“I think I short-circuited something” he said.
“Are you alright” I asked.
“Yes, that’ll teach me to do electrical repairs in the rain. A bolt of lightning hit my screwdriver and sent a big shock through me. I can still feel it tingling.”
“Wow! That must really hurt, and look at you Frank, you’re sizzling.”
“Oh, I’ll be alright. It’s mainly soot not really burns, and my hair is statically charged, but apart from that no real harm done.”
“Well you go have a shower before you come into bed.” Frank went off to the shower and was none the worst for his close encounter.
Day Three
When I woke Frank had already left for work. I wanted to go shopping for my wedding dress, but I don’t really have any close friends, well girls anyway. So I called Shaun but he was busy, I called Terrel, I hadn't spoken to him for awhile, and we had a nice chat, however, he too was busy. Personally I think they were both running away from the idea of going shopping. Men don’t like shopping at the best of times let alone with an ex barely on speaking terms, silly idea really. So I decided to just go by myself. There will be shop assistants to help me, won’t there? But then they probably won’t be objective... as they want the sale, then again they won’t want me to leave and go somewhere else either, and that’ll be an incentive for them to keep me happy. I must remember that, if I feel I'm being railroaded. With these thoughts running through my head I head out.
I visit The Tattoo and Beauty Parlour.
It’s as good a place as any to start and I figured there’d be plenty of Sims to give advice and help me choose. The assistant walks up to me straight away and asks if she can help me.
“Yes I’d like something formal, I'm...” I don’t get to finish my sentence. She leaps for joy, claps her hands and gets a gleam in her eye. Then she whisks me off to a little room.
“Stand up here dear so I can get a good look at you” she says, pointing to a small podium in front of the mirrors. I do as I'm told. She stands there looking at me and tutting. “Oh this will never do” she says pointing, at my butt, I think, “Turn around” she snaps.
I turn glancing at my butt in the mirror. It’s not that bad...is it? I think to myself.
“Oh we will have to change everything” she says, walking over to the rack of clothes. “Let’s start with these.” she says, handing me some clothes from it. They are definitely not what I had in mind. “But I'm getting married...” I say and start to protest. “Yes, yes dear we will get to that..., I need to get a feel for what you look like in clothes more...” she pauses to think of the right words. “...suited to your figure” she finishes. She waves her hand in the general direction of the changing room, in a gesture which makes me feel I'm being dismissed. I dutifully comply. I re-emerge wearing the most hideous outfit imaginable.
I mount the podium again and took a look in the mirror. “Yes, that’s much better” squawks the assistant “do you see dear, how this flatters your particular..., assets?” I look at myself in the mirror and without saying a word I leave the podium, return to the changing room, dress in my own clothes and leave, throwing the clothes at her on my way out.
As I leave I realise I’d been holding my breath. I breathe out and take in a big gulp of the fresh air that suddenly hit my nose. Well really, who does she think she is? What was I thinking, a tattoo place? c’mon now, really? I guess I was thrown by the ‘beauty parlour’ bit of the name. Well I won’t make that mistake again. Now where to go next...
Oh I know there’s a little boutique just opened up. It’s really new, should've thought of that first I guess, but it is really new so I didn’t. I head over to it and on first site I'm impressed.
This is more like it. As I enter I can feel the atmosphere, it is more relaxed with a sweet calm energy flowing through the place. There's soft music playing in the background which complements it.
I take a moment to breath it in, before going to the gentleman behind the desk. I'm surprised its a gentleman, behind the desk I mean, but he is a far cry from the snooty woman I just encountered.
“Good morning, I’m Damon, Welcome to Karl's boutique, how can we help you today?”
I explain what I'm looking for and he directs me upstairs. “Feel free to browse around” he said “and I’ll send someone along to assist you when you've had a few minutes.” I thanked him and headed upstairs.
Now I really am impressed, upstairs is a large open plan layout with two similar podiums with mirrors as in the tattoo place.
I get onto the podium and twisting and turning I get a good look at myself, including my butt.
I don’t think there is anything wrong with my... assets, as she put it, I think it looks mighty fine. I then wander around the racks looking at the various dresses. They all look lovely, how do I choose. I must have been looking a little lost,because I'm suddenly aware of a lady standing looking at me.
"Hi I am Naomi, I didn't want to interupt, can I be of some assistance?" Naomi is a pleasant lady, after introducing herself, she talks to me about what I'm looking for.
I explain that I'm getting married and give her a rough idea as to what I want my dress to look like. She listens to me intently, while studying my figure and making suggestions.
The whole experience is a far cry from the horrible woman in the tattoo place.
She then brings out 3 dresses for me to try.
They all have different aspects of what I was thinking and she has captured the essence of what I wanted. This is a lady that knows her stuff and how to wait on Sims. She made me feel as if nothing was too much trouble.
Each time she looks at the dress from all angles, to assess the fit, style and cut on me. I am enjoying this now and prance around pretending to be a model on a runway. Naomi indulges me and goes along with the pretence. She comments on each dress and tells me honestly whether or not it is right for me.
I quite liked this one but Naomi was not impressed. “It’s not quite ceremony material” she said with and expression of horror on her face. "Maybe for the reception, are you going to change later on?"
"No, I'd like to stay in my dress for the duration of the day. After all you only get married once, I hope, so I want to make the most out of it."
"Quite right madam, What about the last one, try that on and if you don't like it or want to look at some more we can do that too."
I try on the final dress and fall in love with it immediately.
“Vwala!” she says in a mock French accent and I clap my hands. The excitment was too much.
The dress is exquisite, and fits all my curves and assets perfectly.
Naomi doesn't hover, she stands off to one side while I twist and turn in the mirror to get a good look from all angles.
Finally deciding I look hot. and after giving myself a seal of approval, Naomi says “Would you like to add some accessories?”
“Oh yes please” I reply.
She quickly pulls my hair up and accessorised it with some flowers from the dresser. She adds a necklace from one of the boxes on display. The whole look is quite appealing.
Then leaves me alone to enjoy my dress. I gaze at myself in the mirror not quite believing it's me.
I step down and take a walk around to see how it feels.
It’s perfect as I glide across the floor.
I stop at another mirror as I catch a glimpse of myself.
Not bad I think, not bad at all, yes this will do very nicely. I change back into my clothes and take the dress, shoes and accessories to the desk to pay.
“Did you find everything you needed” Asked Damon.
“Yes I did, thank you so much, oh and your assistant Naomi she is worth her weight in gold, she was so helpful I couln't have done it without her. She left before I could thank her for everything. Would you pass on my thanks and appreciation please.”
"I certainly will madam, I'm glad you enjoyed your visit with us today, please come again and bring your friends."
"I will this place is amazing."
"Now, is there anything else we can do for you, anything at all?"
"No thank you, I'm good, all set for my wedding on Saturday, you have a good day bye."
"Saturday! well you have a good day and enjoy Saturday, goodbye madam."
On the drive home I clutched my purchases and smiled to myself, I had picked out the perfect wedding dress all by myself... well with a little help from Naomi.
Days four and five
Three days to the wedding and there was still so much to do.
I spent the time on the phone mostly,
but, I did manage a little gardening
and of course there is always work.
Day six
The day before the wedding.
Frank came home from work early. I was lying on the bed reading a book.
He seemed distracted, looking out the window, but told me to get ready we were going out for dinner. He’s so thoughtful like that, it was so sweet when he would just decided to surprise me with little gestures like this.
But today seemed different, it was as if he had something on his mind that he wanted to tell me but didn't want to hurt my feelings. I guess he thought dinner would soften the blow. My mind went into overdrive thinking about what it could possibly be. Did he have a bad day at work, has he been fired? Surely he wasn’t postponing the wedding, or worse cancelling it completely. I couldn't stand it nothing could soften the blow if it was that, and I’d rather be at home with my disappointment if it was that. I’d not be able to control myself in public. No I had to find out what was wrong.
“Is everything ok Frank?” I asked.
“ Yes.” he replied not looking at me. Then probably sensing my anxiety added “I just thought you might like to go out for a quiet dinner. We don’t have anyone to invite for a formal rehearsal dinner so it’ll just be you and me.” He looked at me now anticipating a dissipation of my apprehension and for the most part I was relieved the wedding seemed to still be on. I decided to play along with him, 20 questions wasn’t going to work now and the sooner we got to dinner the sooner I’d know what was bothering him.
We went to the bistro and ate outside, it was a nice, warm evening and the sun was still shinning. We began to eat but neither of us said a word. I waited for Frank to start a conversation, but I could see him struggling with how.
I kept watching him and waiting.
I couldn't stand it any longer, Throwing my hands up in the air I broke the silence. “Ok… that’s it are you going to tell me what’s wrong?” Frank peered up at me without moving his head, he just moved his eyes enough to look into mine. I could see him trying to read me, but said nothing. I carried on eating.
When he had finished and the waiter had cleared his plate, he made a similar gesture with his hands although not with quite as much drama as I had.
“Look…” he began “you know I’d never intentionally do anything to hurt you or upset our plans…” I tuned out for a second. This is not good I thought, he is cancelling the wedding. Then I heard Frank say “Honey… you understand don’t you?” What had I missed? I recovered quickly.
“No, I don’t understand Frank, explain it to me again?” This time I was paying attention.
“It’s because of the promotion, remember. Now that I'm doing work which involves some investigations I have to attend certain courses, one of which is photography. The first course is in France and this weekend.”
“But we are getting married this weekend, tomorrow Frank.”
“I know, I know baby and if I could do it any other way you know I would. We will still get married tomorrow, but then I have to leave first thing on Sunday.” Frank paused and looked at me, waiting for a response I guess. I said nothing, I couldn't, the tears were beginning to well up in my eyes. If I opened my mouth to speak I’d be reduced to a blubbering mess.
“Juanita…, do you want the good news now?”
“The good news…” I trailed off not trusting myself to say anything else. What could possibly be good in all of this?
“Yes” said Frank “When I started to explain I said there’s good news and there's bad news which do you want first? When you didn't reply I figured I’d start with the bad. Have you been listening to me Juanita?” I hadn’t recovered smoothly enough then. I missed all of that. When I didn't reply Frank continued… apparently with the good news.
“Ok! So the good news is that they agreed to my proposal.”
“Proposal?” I asked.
“Yes I told them I wasn't going to spend my honeymoon in France by myself. I said that if my wife was ok with me spending some time on this course then we would both come. If not…” Frank didn't get a chance to finish what he was saying. I leapt up from the table and jumped into his arms. He saw me coming and only barely had time to stand up and catch me, otherwise I think we would have both ended up on the floor tangled in the table, chairs, umbrella and all. I hugged his neck and the tears that had been teetering on the brink of my eyes now flowed uncontrollably down my cheeks. They were tears of joy now.
“So I’ll take that as a yes then” said Frank “you don’t mind that I’ll be missing on our honeymoon for a couple of days…”
“We’re going to France for our honeymoon?” I said incredulously.
“Really? That’s all you got from that?” asked Frank.
“France!!” I whispered in his ear.
“Yes France” echoed Frank and it’s on the department, a wedding present if you like.”
“I love you Frank Williams” was all I could manage. Frank paid the bill and took me home. This was the most romantic pre-wedding night, well I think so, I have nothing to compare it to, but better than any old rehearsal dinner.
That night when I went to bed I was the happiest I've ever been since coming to Union Cove and the happy thoughts were helping me to drift off to sleep, when suddenly a thought snapped me back.
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