Tranquility Bay: A Sims 2 Prosperity Challenge Blog

Welcome!

2013-08-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

The Backstory

Long, long ago in a neighborhood far, far away, a disembodied mysterious voice set out to create a truly prosperous town. That town was Tranquility Acres, and the mysterious voice was able to help it grow from six houses to a full fledged suburban paradise. Then, just as the town was reaching its peak, it was attacked in the night by a monster known only as the File Limit. The mysterious voice tried to pick up the pieces, but it was no use. Tranquility Acres was gone.

Though greatly saddened by the loss of her town, the mysterious voice decided the best thing to do was to move on. So, she packed up her mysterious voice notebook and left the scene, turning her attention to an empty area just to the east. In honor of the town she lost, she named her new city "Tranquility Bay".

To both preserve the memory of her old town and to make her life easier, the mysterious voice simply picked up the now vacant houses (because all disembodied voices have the ability to do that) and moved them to the new town. She gutted the houses to make them affordable to a new group of six families, who moved in and started to populate the new town.

If you need some help keeping track of the family ties in Tranquility Bay, or if you want to see the family lines before you start reading, check out the Tranquility Bay Family Tree

Want to know where I got a hairstyle or outfit? Check out the Custom Content Link Page!

Vega 5: Round 9

2012-02-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

Another day, another new house. This one belongs to Snapple Vega and Braden Caligula. Snapple is the eldest child of Venice and Crimson, while Braden has been living in townie limbo up until now; hence he's just now becoming an adult while his sister Kalliope has already died of old age.

Beesly 13: Round 9

2012-01-30T07:28:00.000-08:00

Yes, believe it or not we've reached the 13th lot in the Beesly family. This one belongs to Angela Beesly and her fiancee, Boq Mendoza.

Hi Boq!

Boq: Hey, you got my name right!

It's easier now that you're not living with your father. You two look identical.

Oh, this is a great way to start the week...

Well, Boq's LTW is to have 20 pet best friends, so I guess his career doesn't matter.

Angela's is to earn $100,000...probably won't happen with the science career alone, but I've got a plan.

And now we've got relatives in awkward formal attire...must be wedding time!

Nothing says you're entering adulthood like getting into a pillow fight with your twin sister on your wedding day...

Hmm...Boq's outfit is a little odd but all things considered, it's not the strangest wedding attire I've seen.

So how was the rest of the party?

Boq: Ok. Nothing too exciting.

Angela: We were kind of waiting for the party to end for the excitement to start...

Point taken. I'll be admiring the lovely paint job on the living room walls...

Um, let's get help...

Yes!

Congratulations, Angela!

Angela: Thanks...but I kind of feel like I didn't do anything.

Ow! That looks incredibly painful.

Angela: It's not too bad. I'll just change outfits when I get back from work.

Um, shouldn't you be staying home?

Angela: Well, the car's already outside. I might as well go.

Um, let's inform...

Wait, so steal was the right answer? When is stealing ever the right answer?

Don't get too upset, Angela.

Angela: But now it will be two whole days until I get another shot...

Make that one whole day.

Martin 4: Round 9

2012-01-21T06:45:00.000-08:00

Another new house! This one belongs Violin Martin and Virgo Beesly. Violin is the middle daughter of Clarinet and England Martin, while Virgo is the youngest son of Rachel and Gaston Beesly.

Hi, guys!

Violin: Hi mysterious voice!

Hmm...well, Violin's lifetime want has more to do with her pets' careers than hers, so I guess this is as good of a choice as any.

And since Law Enforcement isn't available, I guess military will have to suffice for now.

Violin: Stupid rain!

Violin, stop attacking the precipitation.

Violin: But it's my wedding day!

Don't worry, I'm sure we can make some alternative arrangements.

I can see that the guests don't mind the weather...

Violin: Can we get on with this? This dress is itchy.

And as a late wedding present, the Law Enforcement career finally comes up.

Well, I guess your job choice didn't matter much after all.

Violin: I would have liked to at least learned everybody's name before I went on maternity leave.

Looks like they're getting started on her real lifetime want, though.

Welcome to the family, Bandit!

Violin: A puppy?

Virgo: Yeah, isn't he cute?

Violin: Yes, but now we have to wait until he grows up to get him into a career.

Virgo: Oh...I didn't think about that.

Let's yell really loudly!

Nice!

Congratulations, Virgo!

Virgo: Thanks!

Although I guess that congratulations will soon be in order for both of you!

Bonding with the little guy?

Violin: Yes. It's not that I don't love him, I just wish I didn't have to wait to get him started in a job. But it's been nice to have him at home while I'm on maternity leave.

Smokescreen...

Yes!

You've had a good week so far.

Virgo: I know.

Virgo: Hey, congratulations on...you know, being pregnant and all that.

Hmm...seeing as how it's her 3rd trimester...and it's your kid...don't you think that it's a little odd that you're congratulating her?

Violin: OW!

Looks like it's baby time!

Just one...Virgo's twin genes haven't kicked in yet.

It's a girl!

Violin: We're naming her Quinn!

Wait...a name that's actually a name? What craziness is this?

Virgo: Yes! We've got a gym! Great idea, honey.

Technically, you have one piece of equipment in an otherwise empty room. I don't think it counts as a gym.

Happy birthday, dear Quinn...

And she definitely favors Virgo's side of the family.

Looks like you put that maternity leave to good use.

Violin: Well, I couldn't play with the puppy the whole time.

Violin: Here you go, honey. It's good for you.

You know, most people would be concerned if their children's food was glowing...

Or if that food made their child glow.

Violin: But she's learning to walk so quickly!

And it looks like Quinn wasn't the only one having a birthday!

And it stands to reason he'd be in the same career as Violin.

And now I guess Quinn and Bandit get to start over.

Well, this seems to be as good a place as any to head on my way. I'll see all of you guys next round!

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: I was so excited to finally have a pet on a lot again. I don't play with them as much as I'd like to because my Sims are usually busy raising kids rather than puppies. And yes, Quinn's name is still part of a naming theme. I haven't decided what that theme is yet (it could be one of two) but there is a theme going here.

Martin 3: Round 9

2012-01-08T13:39:00.000-08:00

We now arrive at the third Martin house in Tranquility Bay. This one belongs to Harmonica Martin and Ash Warner. Harmonica was the second child of the Martin family, born after her father had an...experience with the family's telescope. Ash is also a middle child, with he and his brother Maple being sandwiched between two sets of twins.

What are you doing, Harmonica?

Harmonica: Oh, hi mysterious voice. I'm just, um...can I ask you something?

Sure.

Harmonica: Why aren't my eyes brown anymore?

Well, they're back to your original eyes. Aren't you happy about that?

Harmonica: I guess. It was just nice being normal for a little while, you know?

Looks like Ash has his eye on that reward bookshelf...

While Harmonica is chasing her actual lifetime want.

Nice going!

Harmonica: Thanks.

And see? I bet nobody at work cares about your skin or your eyes.

Harmonica: I work in the back. I wouldn't know.

Harmonica: You don't care, right?

Ash: About what?

Harmonica: My eyes going back to the way they were.

Ash: Of course not...in fact, I find them kind of mysterious...

Ok, that's my cue to exit.

Nice job, Ash!

Ash: Thanks!

A little early to be taking a family portrait, isn't it?

Harmonica: We wanted to get a picture of us on the wall while it's still easy to do.

And something tells me it won't be easy for much longer!

You're having a great week!

Ash: I know. It's crazy.

Like I said...

Harmonica: I wonder....

You wonder what?

Harmonica: What he'll look like...or she.

You guys do have some interesting genetics to play with, that's for sure.

Oops...both to my not getting a picture of the question and to the obviously wrong answer.

Ash: I knew it was too good to be true...

Aww, you made one mistake. You'll get that promotion back in no time.

It's amazing how those jeans are still fitting you.

Harmonica: I think it's this special kind of stretch denim...

See? What did I tell you?

And look, he even gets a child to boot! It's baby time!

Another boy....

Harmonica: We'll call him Sloth!

Odd choice of name for your firstborn, but whatever...

And with all the custom/wacky genetics in this guy's family tree, he comes out with the most basic look you could imagine!

Harmonica: He's perfect! He's so normal!

Um...Blend and Send?

Yes! I have horrible luck with this one most of the time.

Uh-oh...I detect that Sloth might not be an only child for long.

Speaking of which...happy birthday, dear Sloth...

Looks like Harmonica's eyes weren't able to be completely left out...and he even has a cute hair cut.

Well, I'll leave you guys to get some rest before the next little one arrives! See you next round!

Harmonica: Bye, mysterious voice!

A Message from the Mysterious Voice: See? I told you that as soon as Harmonica wasn't a teen anymore, her eyes would be back to normal. I still can't believe how basic Sloth came out. Between the alien genes from his mom and the custom skin tones from his Lancaster heritage, his being born with plain light skin and green eyes is a miracle in and of itself.

Beesly 12: Round 9

2012-01-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

We're plugging our way through these new houses. This one belongs to Drum Martin and Mindy Beesly. Both are romance Sims...this should be interesting.

I don't think that one was Drum's lifetime want, but whatever. A paycheck's a paycheck.

Great, a flu outbreak. That's a good way to start the week.

Why are Romance sims so drawn to the culinary career? The lower levels of it have to be some of the most un-romantic jobs I've ever heard of.

You're cleaning?

Drum: Well, yeah. This counter's a mess.

You've lived here for all of six hours.

It's like a college reunion!

Ash: So how's everybody liking their new houses?

Jasmine: Oh, ours is wonderful. But I never knew how much hard work moving was.

So I take it you two aren't having a wedding.

Drum: No, but that doesn't mean we can't have a wedding night, does it?

Technically, it does...

Mindy: Well, than can we have a...housewarming night?

I guess so...let me just slip out of the room.

I guess housewarming nights have the same risks involved as wedding nights.

What are you doing, Drum?

Drum: Researching. Mindy's got something wrong with her.

Well, I have a theory...

Drum: She thinks she's pregnant, but I know that can't be it.

And you know that how?

Drum: Well, we're not ready. And neither of us really want kids yet.

Looks like Drum does want a new job, though...

Followed by an immediate promotion thanks to an extra skill point.

Uh-oh...who left dinner on the stove?

I guess Mindy wanted to have juice for dinner instead. Um, Mindy...there's a fire going on in your kitchen. You might want to let the juice wait for a moment...

I don't think Drum's theories were correct...

Congratulations, Drum!

Drum: Thanks!

Nope, Drum's theory is definitely not panning out.

Mindy: Um, honey?

Drum: Yeah?

Mindy: Why are you washing the dinner dishes in here...while I'm in the tub?

Drum: This sink is nicer.

That doesn't explain the "while I'm in the tub" part.

Mindy: I'm going to go lie down for awhile...

Drum: You feeling ok?

I'll take that as a no...it's baby time!

It's a boy! About time, too. I was starting to think there was something wrong here. What's his name?

Mindy: Sleet!

Wow, and on your first day back from maternity leave! Great job, Mindy!

Mindy: Thanks!

Well, seeing as how it's Sleet's last night as a baby I'd better get the close-up shot...Mindy's skin, Drum's hair. Not sure where his eyes are from.

Happy birthday, dear Sleet...

And he's certainly got those Beesly cheekbones!

Mindy: You've only been a toddler for two hours! How did you get so dirty already?

Maybe it was all the hairstyling products.

Didn't you have a silver gardening badge already?

Mindy: Nope.

Huh, I could have sworn you got that back at your parent's house.

Mindy: Come on, Sleet...you can do it!

And this is unfortunately where I have to leave you guys. I'll see you three next round!

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: I know, I know. It's been forever since I've posted. I hope you all had a great holiday and new year. I actually played these guys way back in December. I need to stop leaving long gaps between when I play and when I blog a lot; it makes it difficult to remember what exactly was going on.

Tranquility Bay Holiday Greeting 2011

2011-12-24T16:45:00.000-08:00

Hi, everybody! Even though things here have been rather hectic lately, I didn't want to miss my Christmas Eve tradition of doing some kind of special Tranquility Bay blog post. For the past two years, I compiled all of the families together onto one giant photo; an undertaking that literally took all day. This year I didn't have the time to do that. But instead, I have another quick little treat for you...

And now, the students of Tranquility Bay Elementary School present a holiday play...

Willow: This is the story of a magical snowman who came to life...

Rosemary: No it's not! It's the story of the very first...

Orange: Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa started a long time ago in the far-away land of...

Verdana: ...Isreal the menorah in the temple burned for eight whole days, even though there was only enough oil to light...

Kate: ...the way for Santa. And from then on, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer helped Santa every Christmas Eve. The End!

Um, guys?

Everyone: Yes?

That was...great, but....did you rehearse this at all?

Peru: All you said to do was to come up with a holiday play. You didn't say we all had to come up with the same holiday play.

Lime: Besides, how could we rehearse? We've never been in the same place at the same time.

That is very true.

From everybody in Tranquility Bay, have a great holiday and we'll see you in 2012!

Halpert 7: Round 9

2011-11-24T09:38:00.000-08:00

We've reached yet another new house in Tranquility Bay. This one belongs to Strawberry Halpert and Nutmeg Levinson. Strawberry's the oldest daughter of Robin and Mango Halpert, while Nutmeg the third child of Brooklyn and Trumpet Levinson.

Hi there, Strawberry.

Strawberry: Oh, hi mysterious voice.

Enjoying the new digs?

Strawberry: Oh, the house is great.

Well, this makes sense in a bizarre way. I guess someone who grew up in a family that named all the children after spices would want to work around food.

Huh?

Ok, enough with the misleading of the mysterious voice when picking your jobs, please.

Strawberry: So, I know the marriage thing probably isn't going to happen, and I'm ok with that. But we never talked about having kids...

Shouldn't that have been discussed before moving in together?

Nutmeg: Yeah, sure. One kid might be ok, I guess. I mean, we've got to leave the house to someone, right?

What are you doing?

Nutmeg: Well, if we're going to have a kid I've got to start bringing some more money in.

Yes, I'm sure the revenue from selling candies off your front lawn will more than support a child.

Good thing you had that chat with Nutmeg, huh?

Strawberry: I had a hunch...

Again? Enough with the job-hopping, Strawberry!

I guess the new job doesn't make too much difference to you right now, does it?

Strawberry: No, not really.

Nutmeg: Here, hon. Let me get that for you...

Wow, for a romance Sim Nutmeg is handling the pregnancy thing really well.

I guess all that time selling candy had another benefit, huh?

Nutmeg: Yeah.

Nutmeg: So how does this thing get us money again?

Strawberry: I'm not sure exactly. But your candy scheme gave me the idea.

Baby time!

Looks like Nutmeg's twin genes haven't kicked in yet...

It's a girl!

Strawberry: Yup! We're naming her Latte.

More food names....great...

And she is Nutmeg's child in every sense of the word...

You don't look happy about the promotion, Strawberry.

Strawberry: Oh, I'm plenty happy about that. I'm not happy about the garbage all over my front lawn.

Oh, I wouldn't be happy about that either.

Happy Birthday dear Latte...

She's still mostly Levinson...but I can see a little bit of Halpert in there.

Ok, that is adorable.

Strawberry: Isn't it?

Ok, well it's about time I went on my way.

Strawberry: Ok. Hopefully Latte will be walking by the time you get back.

I'll be looking forward to it. See you guys next round!

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: I played this lot before the previous one; I got confused and accidentally skipped a lot. It's been awhile since I actually played it. I did make Latte's hat-it's my first hair recolor.

Schrute 2: Round 9

2011-10-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

After 9 rounds, the Schrute family finally expands to a second house! Jasmine is the oldest child of Giselle and Ross Schrute. Danton Holiday is new to the neighborhood, although his father Andre and several of his siblings are already established in other houses.

Hi there, Jasmine.

Jasmine: Hi, mysterious voice.

How are you liking the new digs?

Jasmine: This house is amazing. I'm just trying to get a few last minute things in order before people start arriving.

People?

Oh, I see. Everybody's dressed in formal attire-it must be wedding time!

Hmm..wouldn't have taken Jasmine for the criminal type.

This makes more sense, though newlywed life should be interesting with one criminal and one police officer...

So, did you two just choose jobs without consulting each other or what?

Jasmine: Huh? Oh, the criminal thing. That's just a temp gig. I figured it I at least went through training it would help him know what the criminals are all about.

Wow, that's one dedicated wife.

Ahh...this makes more sense.

Let's follow protocol and wait.

See? No harm done. Nothing gained either, but what are you going to do?

Damion: Hey! What do you think you're doing?

Jasmine: I was just looking through the telescope...it's dark out now! I was looking at the stars.

Damion: Yeah, sure you were. Quit spying on the elderly!

Yup, this seems about right.

Nice job, Danton. But may I ask why you look so sneaky while getting your own mail?

Oops...looks like I missed the labor. It's baby time!

I see purple! It's a girl!

Jasmine: Yup. We're naming her Downy.

And I can see that Danton really won the war with her.

Oh, hi Giselle. What are you doing here?

Giselle: Jasmine is going back to work today. I figured I would stop by and keep an eye on the nanny...

Let's go with the door.

Nice! And he didn't even have to spy on the elderly to do it.

Nice job, Jasmine.

Jasmine: Thanks!

Jasmine: We just have to wait for Daddy to get home...

Wait for what?

Nice job Danton. Jasmine's....waiting for you inside, for some reason.

Oh, it's Downy's birthday! Happy Birthday dear Downy...

And she is 100% Holiday.

Nice hairstyle.

Jasmine: Thanks. I think I did ok considering she wouldn't sit still.

Man, I'm missing everything this week. Now I've missed her learning how to walk.

Although I see an early love of dance runs in the Holiday family...

Jasmine: You be a good girl for Daddy while I'm at work, ok?

You know, I was on my way out, but I think I'll hang around until you get back.

Danton: Hey, you don't think I can handle her?

Of course not, Danton...that's not what I meant at all...

Nice job!

Jasmine: Thanks. And thanks for staying around until I got home.

No problem. But now I really do have to be on my way. See you all next round!

A Message From The Mysterious Voice: So, this post somehow only published 1/4 of the way the first time I posted it. And then right after I figured that out, I broke my right index finger, and typing became 100 times harder than it used to be. So I apologize that this post has been hanging in limbo for so long!

Levinson 4: Round 9

2011-10-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

Now that graduation is over with, it's time to start visiting the homes of the new college grads. First up is the home of Alan Scott and Ginger Levinson. Alan is the second child of Tangerine and Jack Scott, while Ginger is the 3rd (or 4th, depending on which twin came first) child of Brooklyn and Trumpet Levinson.

Hey, Ginger...

Ginger: Oh, hi mysterious voice.

How you liking the new digs?

Ginger: It's nice. It's kind of quiet, though, with just the two of us here.

Considering you're one of 6 kids and Alan is one of 4, I can see how having a house to yourselves would be strange.

How's the job search going?

Ginger: Well, my real dream is to run 5 top rated businesses...

Oh...right. Forgot about that.

Ginger: But it seems like it will take awhile for that to get off the ground, so I'm going to pick up a normal job in the meantime while I do all the research and prep work.

Ginger's thoroughness must be a relief to you, huh Alan?

Alan: Huh?

You know, building up a savings and whatnot. Kind of the complete opposite of your mom.

Alan: I guess.

That seems like a good temporary career track.

Doing some landscaping?

Ginger: No, this is just the arch for our wedding.

Oh, right...

Rosemary: Hey! How come you don't have to be dressed up?

Ginger: I'll get changed right before the wedding.

Rosemary: That's still not fair! I've had to wear this dress all day! These shoes really hurt.

Ok, let's get this ceremony over with before the kids' clothing causes any more drama.

So how was the rest of the party?

Ginger: It went well. I just wish we could have had some of Alan's family there too. Why didn't you ask any of them?

Alan: ....I don't know.

Great conversationalist, this Alan...

Getting a workout in?

Alan: Um, yeah.

Ok, seriously dude, what's up with the one word answers?

Alan: I'm not really...used to talking, I guess. Everybody just kind of ignored me back home.

Yeah, I guess between you being a middle child and a boy you were pretty much invisible in that house.

Decorating on the cheap?

Ginger: Well, for now. I think my first business is going to be an art gallery. But I need to have some art before I can do that, so I'm working on my painting skills.

How's it going so far?

Ginger: Um...I can paint a picture of a tree and a bowl of fruit.

Very original.

At least it looks like you'll have more time at home now to work on it.

Ginger: If I can stay standing up that long. It seems like as soon as I wake up from a nap I'm wiped again.

Looks like Alan is finally in his desired career.

Any minute now, huh?

Ginger: Yup!

I guess so! It's baby time!

Just one...looks like Ginger's twin genes haven't kicked in.

And I see purple! That means it's a girl!

Ginger: Yes! We're naming her Lily...

And I see blonde eyebrows. That's quite impressive given how much brown Alan had in his genetics to pass on. The only blonde in his family was his paternal grandmother, and his maternal grandfather was a redhead...everybody else was brown.

So Alan's in on the painting now, too?

Ginger: This art gallery is going to take more painting than I can do by myself.

Where are you keeping them now?

Ginger: Along our own walls, for right now. We've got some empty space left.

Let's go with through the asteroids.

Nice!

Ginger: A community lot costs how much? Are you insane? Where am I supposed to come up with that kind of money? What am I supposed to do, run an art gallery out of my house? I have an infant daughter, I can't have strangers coming in and out all day!

At least your regular job is going well.

Ginger: It's a good thing I got that raise. You wouldn't believe how much even a small piece of property goes for in this town. I don't understand how Alan's mom was able to have three at once plus raise 4 kids.

Well, technically she's only raised 2. The other two are still little. And she also moved in with Alan's very well-off grandparents.

Happy birthday, dear Lily...

And she's a Levinson all the way through!

I love the new hairstyle!

Ginger: I do too. That bob is just too plain.

So you got potty training duty?

Alan: It's ok. I helped out a lot with George, and a little bit with Morgan too.

Alan: Can you say bear?

Lily: No!

Alan: Um...ok.

Alan: So...when is this gallery opening?

Ginger: I don't know. I still have to find a location.

Alan: Why don't you just have it here?

Ginger: In our house?

Alan: We'll set up a shed out back or something. Then you don't have to leave Lily with a nanny all day.

Ginger: Hmm...maybe that could work.

Alan: Come on, Lily...you can do it...

Ginger: I think I'm going to set up the art gallery here after all.

Alan: Great!

Ginger: But that does mean we're going to have to install some better locks on the doors. And build an outbuilding that can hold all the paintings.

Sounds like you guys have a lot of work to do. Tell you what, you guys get to it and I'll check in with you all next round!

A Message from the Mysterious Voice: Round 9 is progressing, slowly but surely. I can't believe I haven't used flowers as a naming theme yet. I've used trees before, but not flowers. Lily will most likely be an only child, unless risky WooHoo has other plans. And I didn't realize until I started playing this house how little time I've spent focusing on Alan.

Graduation Ceremony: Class of Round 9

2011-08-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

Hello, and welcome back to Sim State University for the graduation ceremony for the Class of Round 9! This graduating class was the largest in the history of Tranquility Bay, with a whopping 42-yes, you read that right, 42- graduates. As always, they will all be individually announced in alphabetical order. Get comfortable, everybody...

Allegra Beesly

Angela Beesly

Brian Beesly

Canary Beesly

Connecticut Beesly

Gemini Beesly

Helvetica Beesly

Mindy Beesly

November Beesly

Popcorn Beesly

Virgo Beesly

Braden Caligula

Madrid Caligula

Risto Cooprider

Connor Dawn

Abby Halpert

Flint Halpert

Strawberry Halpert

Danton Holiday

Jazz Holiday

Brenden Lancaster

William Lancaster

Mark Larson

Ginger Levinson

Nutmeg Levinson

Drum Martin

Harmonica Martin

(See, I told you her eyes would go back to normal...)

Violin Martin

Boq Mendoza

Emerald Mendoza

Fern Mendoza

Melena Mendoza

Elmer Miguel

Jasmine Schrute

Alan Scott

Meter Vega

Snapple Vega

Ash Warner

Bay Warner

Island Warner

Maple Warner

Sea Warner

Whew! That concludes the announcement of the graduates. Now onto the second part of our ceremony: the rundown of who's leaving with who!

Island Warner and Meter Vega: New house

Harmonica Martin and Ash Warner: New House

Abby Halpert and Maple Warner: Moving Back with Abby's Parents

Ginger Levinson and Alan Scott: New House

Mindy Beesly and Drum Martin: New House

Strawberry Halpert and Nutmeg Levinson: New House

Madrid Caligula and Mark Larson: Moving Back in with Madrid's Parents

Bay Warner and Brenden Lancaster: New House

Popcorn Beesly and William Lancaster: New House

Jasmine Schrute and Danton Holiday: New House

Helvetica Beesly and Jazz Holiday: New House

Canary Beesly and Connor Dawn: Moving Back in with Canary's Parents

Emerald Mendoza and Risto Cooprider: New House

Snapple Vega and Braden Caligula: New House

Sea Warner and Brian Beesly: Moving Back in with Sea's Parents

Angela Beesly and Boq Mendoza: New House

Gemini Beesly and Elmer Miguel: Moving Back in with Gemini's Parents

Melena Mendoza and November Beesly: Moving Back in with Melena's Parents

Fern Mendoza and Connecticut Beesly: New House

Violin Martin and Virgo Beesly: New House

Allegra Beelsy and Flint Halpert: Moving Back in with Allegra's Parents

And that, ladies and gentlemen, brings us to the end of the graduation ceremony. If you were paying attention, no doubt you noticed that we've got 14 new houses to get set up. Looks like this mysterious voice has her work cut out for her! Please help yourself to refreshments on the way out, and stay tuned for the second half of round 9!

Rosada 2: Round 9

2011-08-21T15:19:00.000-07:00

Last round, Ariana Rosada moved in with Mountain Holiday after the pair completed college. They were quickly married, and gave birth to a daughter, Venus.

Hi, guys!

Mountain: Hi mysterious voice...um, do you have any clue about why she's glowing?

Did you give her smart milk?

Mountain: Yeah, but...that was last night before we put her to bed. Why is she still glowing now?

Venus: Bottle!

It seems to have helped her learn to talk, regardless...

Nice job, but...isn't it your lifetime want to be the education minister?

Ariana: Yeah, but that one hasn't come up yet. May as well get as far as I can in law enforcement while I'm waiting.

Ariana: Are you sure you didn't give her any more of that milk?

Mountain: I'm sure. We only gave her that one bottle.

She's still glowing?

Mountain: Yes! It's been a good 48 hours now-still glowing.

Yes! Ariana's in her dream career!

You weren't kidding about her still glowing...

Mountain: I'm beginning to get worried...

I wouldn't be too concerned. Smart milk is a good thing...

And anyway, I'm sure she'll stop glowing once she grows up...Happy Birthday, dear Venus...

Wow, you look just like your mom!

Venus: I know. I think it's because we share our skin color, eye color, and hair color and style. Our facial features are also very similar.

Quite verbose for someone who was in diapers five minutes ago...

All ready for the first day of school, I see.

Venus: Well, yes. But I don't think I'll be going to school today. I've been monitoring the weather and it seems there is a rather large storm system making its way up the coast. Given the drop in temperature, I think the system will produce enough snow as to make the roads impassible to school buses.

So, you're saying you think there will be a snow day.

Venus: Yes.

Well, it's 10 am and you're still home. I guess you were right.

Venus: I knew I would be. This type of weather pattern is very predictable.

Isn't this your first winter?

Venus: Oh, that reminds me. I want to go outside and play in the snow.

Venus: This snow is much too fine and powdery...it's barely adhering at all.

Looks like a fine snowman to me...

Nice going, Ariana!

Ariana: Thanks!

Venus, what are you doing up? Your parents aren't even awake yet.

Venus: Oh, I just thought I'd catch up on some reading before school.

Looks like you'll have time to do more than catch up, Venus.

Venus: Actually, this is the last book in the case. I've read them all.

Maybe that glowing milk has more of an impact than I thought...

Now, how exactly do you have to go to work when she doesn't have to go to school?

Ariana: I teach in another district. This was a very local storm.

I see...

Dress for Spirit Day...

Yes!

Nice job!

Ariana: Thanks. I think Venus was really eager for me to get this promotion.

What are you two up to?

Venus: Mom and I are having a skilling race with her new bookshelf.

Ahh, so this is why you were so excited for her promotion.

Venus: Yes. We're both studying logic. I'm two points ahead.

Impressive.

Back at the chessboard to show that logic skill off?

Venus: Oh, I was able to beat Dad before I got my skill up.

Mountain: I've never beaten her. Not once.

Let's go with pro-control...

Oops. At least she gets to keep the bookshelf.

It's ok, Ariana. You'll earn the promotion back...

Ariana: Oh, it's not that. There was a wolf over there and it barked at me.

Oh, right! I almost forgot about Mountain's job! Nice going, Mountain!

Mountain: Thanks!

Mountain: I just hope that she's going to be able to make friends in school. She's such a...unique kid.

Ariana: You're such a good father...

Oh, no...and these guys don't have an alarm.

Alright, now how does a car fit into that little bag? How?

Venus: Dad, I would really appreciate it if you and Mom would purchase an alarm system. I've been researching several on the Internet and I think I've found a few that will meet our needs and fit within the family budget.

Mountain: Um...ok, Venus. Why don't you show those to me after we finish playing with the dollhouse?

So you guys are really stopping at one child?

Mountain: We've got our heiress now.

Ariana: And Venus is a very...challenging child to raise. I don't think we should divert our attention from her right now.

Really? To me it seems like she just takes care of herself.

Mountain: Yes, but the normal kid stuff just doesn't hold her attention. I just worry that she's too curious and too smart for her own good.

And we'll end the week with you back at the chess table. Getting some practice in?

Venus: Yes, I'm working on a fabulous new strategy that will render me almost impossible to defeat.

Ok, well, you work on that, and I'll see you guys next round.

Venus: Goodbye, mysterious voice!

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: This house went by really quickly, both to play and to blog. Venus' smart milk glow really did last for days on end, and it had a major effect on her once she became a child. Her skills rocket up to the point that she could probably reach the top of a career now. And now we've reached the last of the established houses! You know what that means-it's graduation time! Grab your "Congratulations" balloons and meet me over at Sim State!

Rosada 1: Round 9

2011-08-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

Last round, the Rosadas finally joined the line-up of houses in Tranquility Bay. Pine adjusted well to family life, while Oak continued to convince himself that being in a relationship with a family Sim like Brigid wasn't completely against his nature. Both couples had a son, Colbalt for Pine and Aquamarine and Eton for Oak and Brigid. Only the former couple, though, had a wedding later in the week. Oak did, though, adopt a puppy named Luna in hopes of distracting his wife from wanting to procreate any further.

Hi there, newlyweds!

Aquamarine: Finally! Where where you?

I know, I know. It's take me forever to get through all the houses this round....

Aquamarine: Wait? All the houses?

Um, yeah.

Aquamarine: So you don't just hang out here with us? You have to go to everybody's house?

Yeah. Didn't Pine explain to you how this works?

Aquamarine: Well, he told me that you come and go but I thought we were the only ones you visited. I thought we were special.

Well, of course you are but...

Aquamarine: I feel so insignificant!

How's the little guy doing?

Pine: He's doing just fine. Don't worry about Aquamarine. She'll figure this whole mysterious voice thing out sooner or later.

I hope so.

I see parenthood isn't agreeing with you quite as well as it is with your brother.

Oak: You can say that again. Why don't he stop crying?

The cloud of stink radiating from him might be the problem.

Pine: But Aqua, didn't you notice that every time you visited someone, she was at their house too?

Aquamarine: Well, yes. But I thought she was indecisive, not that we all had to share.

You come from a family of five sisters, and you still have sharing issues?

You might want to work on that before you have a second child of your own.

Aquamarine: I don't look pregnant...

That's just your outfit. You are, trust me.

Let's go with Harry...didn't we do this one last week?

Nice!

Oh, right...they have a puppy. Well, had a puppy. Now they have a very...interesting looking dog. She's like a poodle on steroids.

Looks like she's bonded with Oak, though.

And Colbalt is somewhere behind that mass of puffy fur.

Happy birthday, dear Eton...

Not bad.

Eton: Darn!

What?

Eton: I was hoping I wouldn't be pink anymore.

Happy Birthday, dear Colbalt...

Again, not bad...

Um, Oak? You've been at that piano for like 12 hours straight.

Oak: I need more creativity skills for work.

But you haven't eaten....or slept....or bathed. Plus, your son just grew up. You should go see him. But bathe first.

Oh, no. It's the revenge of the roach flu!

Colbalt, you should be lying down.

Colbalt: But I want to teach her a trick!

How about teaching her to kill the roaches that made you all sick?

Ok, going out in the snow isn't going to help you get better either.

Eton: Maybe if I get cold enough I'll turn blue like you are!

No, then you'll just turn purple and the social worker will take you away.

Congratulations, Brigid!

Brigid: Thanks!

See? Told you she was pregnant.

No twin genes yet, though.

Yay! A girl!

Aquamarine: We'll call her...Cyan!

Cute.

First day back at work...let's dress for spirit day.

Huh? That one's never wrong!

At least she has this to come home to. I wonder if she'll actually have blond hair...

Hmm, looks like Eton was able to make friends at school even with his pink skin. I wonder what they found in common...

Nice job, Pine!

Pine: Thanks!

Equally nice job, Oak. I guess all that piano time paid off.

Oak: It sure did.

So you're pretty well-set now, right?

Oak: Yeah, I guess so.

So if Brigid had another baby...

Oak: Whoa, now. Let's not get crazy.

Having your own celebration?

Oak: Yup!

Just be careful with the fire...

Colbalt: I got an A+!

Great job. What about Eton?

Colbalt: Nope. Just me.

Huh, strange. Well, you did get a little sister and Eton didn't...maybe there is something to this sibling theory after all.

Colbalt: Nah. He just didn't do his homework last night.

Oh...yeah, that'll do it too.

You're having a good week, Brigid.

Brigid: Well, now that Oak being a romance Sim is off my mind I can concentrate more.

See, Eton? Being pink helps you make friends...especially with girls. There's going to be some stiff competition for Milli...

Happy birthday, dear Cyan...

Aww, she looks just like her aunt Willow!

That's a pretty intricate hairstyle to maintain on a toddler...

Aquamarine: What do you care? You can just go see one of the other houses when it's time to put her hair up.

Obviously she has yet to figure the mysterious voice thing out.

And let the teaching begin...you know, that smart milk glow sets off her skin really well.

Tranquility Bay FAQ's

2011-07-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

   Hello, and greetings from your friendly neighborhood mysterious voice. You may have noticed that the span of time between posts has been getting longer and longer recently. Some "real-world" changes have left me with much less time to spend with my Sims than I used to have. I do feel bad keeping everybody waiting so long for new posts, though.
   So I thought I'd try something different. I've noticed that a lot of the comments (thank you for those, by the way) contain questions that I still have yet to answer. Rather than go back to each post and respond individually, I thought I'd do a little Frequently Asked Questions post just to reassure everyone that I am, in fact, still alive. This might become a semi-regular thing, or it might not. I honestly have no idea. But I do know it's been too long since I've updated this blog, so I had to think of something to fill the void until I finish playing the next lot.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAQ #1: Where do you get your custom eyes?
   I've gotten this one from multiple people. My default eye replacements have been in my game for a very, very long time. So long that I had no memory of where I got them from. To add to my confusion, the files didn't include a creator or site in the filename. However, by checking the "created on" date and searching through the MTS2 archives, I have found a set that I'm 99% sure is the one I use. The filenames all line up to what is in my downloads folder. The set is called "Realistic Eyes V5" at MTS2 by Barcelonista, and can be found here.

FAQ #2: Where did you get the glasses for toddlers?
   Very few of my sims actually wear glasses, but those that do sure seem to leave an impression. The custom glasses that I use are called the RealiSim Geeky Glasses. The version for Child-Elders is by HystericalParoxysm and and be found here. The toddler conversions are by Sims2Playerette and can be found here.

FAQ #3: How do your baby girls wear a different outfit than the boys?
   This is another one that I get over and over again. The ability to have different outfits for baby boys and girls is a fairly new development. I learned about it while attending a live recording of the Sims 2 Challenges podcast. It took a little time to set it up exactly the way I have it, but hopefully having the answer here will save you some searching.
   The mod that allows different outfits is from Insimenator and can be downloaded here. However, I'm only including that link to give credit to the people who made it possible for girls and boys to wear different outfits. Although I originally thought I had the Insimenator file in my game, as it turns out I don't. My baby girl outfit, both the mesh and texture, are from Sim Oasis and can be downloaded here; make sure you download the "girl-only" versions of both files.

FAQ #4: How did you make a table of contents?.
   Again, learned this one from the Sims 2 Challenges podcast, so I have to give credit where it's due. It's actually a very simple process. What you have to do is create a post that will become your table of contents. At the bottom of the posting area in Blogger, directly below the "labels" box and right above the publish and save buttons, is a menu called post options. This menu has a section called post time and date, which can be used to alter the date on which Blogger thinks you published this post. You can set it to post at any point in the future. I usually give it about two years.
   Then, you need to set up your blog to display only the one most recent post. This can be done by going to "settings" from your Blogger dashboard, and then going to the "formatting" tab. It's the first option on that page. Because your table of contents is set two years into the future, it will always be the most recent post and thus be the one post that shows up on the main page. Whenever you post a new entry, just copy its URL and post a link into the table of contents post.

FAQ #5: Where did you get your default skintones?
   I have good news and bad news on this one. The good news is that my default skin replacements actually have a creator name in the file name. My skintone replacements are by creator Helaene (she is on MTS2 and also has her own site) and are known as the "805" skins. Unfortunately, the bad news is these skins don't seem to be available anymore. Apparently they were the "skins to have" back in the 2006/2007 era, though, because there was a lot of discussion about them on "what default replacements do you use" threads.

That actually covers the majority of the questions I receive, to be honest. I promise that a real update is in the works, but hopefully this will provide assurance that I haven't forgotten about this blog. Until next time, everybody!
-The Mysterious Voice

Halpert 6: Round 9

2011-06-08T12:07:00.000-07:00

Last round...

Zoe: Hey!

Um, Zoe? Could you not interrupt while I'm introducing your post?

Zoe: Sorry, but I just have to ask...where have you been?

I know, I know. It's taken me awhile to get to you guys....

Zoe: That's not what I'm talking about. You completely skipped over us last time.

What? No I didn't.

Zoe: Well, you came here. But you didn't tell anybody about what happened. Nobody has seen our house yet.

What? I didn't do that...

Zoe: Yeah, you did...

Zoe: You skipped right over how I got pregnant right after we moved in...

Zoe: And how Zyrtec and I were so sure we'd have a girl.

Zoe: But of course when the big day came, we had a little boy.

Zoe: We named him Tiger.

Zoe: And by the end of the week he was already a toddler! And you skipped all of it!

Sorry, Zoe. I guess I did forget to fill everybody in on you guys last round. But can we please move on to this one?

Zoe: (sigh) I guess so.

Having some plumbing problems?

Zyrtec: This stupid bathroom is always breaking down.

Having a toddler constantly playing in the toilet doesn't help either, I imagine.

Zyrtec: Yeah, and neither does this....

Zoe: Shut up!

Um...let's try and re-fasten the speaker.

Nice!

Nice job, Zoe.

Zoe: Thanks!

Zoe: I think I may be pregnant again!

Dawn: Are you sure?

Zoe: Well, it's either that or this is the worst case of food poisoning I've ever had.

My vote is for option one...

Oh, there's the little guy. I haven't seen him yet.

Bath time?

Zoe: I want him to be clean for the party tonight.

Party?

Oh, this party. Happy birthday, dear Tiger...

And yet another unfortunate boy grows up with pink pajamas...still cute, though.

Any minute now...

Tiger: Dad, what's the capital of Kentucky?

Zyrtec: Um...why don't we ask your mom?

Tiger: But she's sleeping.

Zyrtec: Well, why don't we save the homework for when she wakes up? How about some chess? That's educational.

Zyrtec: Hey, look over there!

Tiger: Huh?

Nice education there, Zyrtec.

Looks like it's baby time!

Just one more...

Zoe: It's another boy!

Great! What's his name?

Zoe: We're calling him Panther.

He looks an awful lot like Panther...

Wow, for two romance Sims you two sure are in a family mode this week.

Zyrtec: Oh, we're still working on the 50 dream dates. We're up to 15 now.

How on earth do you have time to date?

And of course, like clockwork....

Tiger: I got an A+!

Great job!

And he brought home a friend!

I guess all that dating is catching up with you.

Happy birthday, dear Panther...

And he still looks just like his brother.

Show a little more enthusiasm, Zyrtec.

Zyrtec: Hey, this isn't the most thrilling thing in the world here.

Zyrtec: Is this any better?

Slightly, yes.

Um, am I seeing this correctly?

Zyrtec: Tiger really wants a puppy.

Sure, a kid, a toddler, and one on the way...let's add a little more chaos.

Welcome to the family, Timber!

Tiger: He's so little!

Enjoy it while it lasts, Tiger. He won't be little for long.

Zoe: So, are we sure that the puppy was a good idea?

Zyrtec: Sure! It's been two days and he hasn't destroyed anything yet.

Key word in that sentence: yet.

Zoe: Not now, honey. Mommy's a little busy right now...

I guess so! It's baby time!

No Noah's Ark at this house...

Zoe: It's a girl!

Great, we've got our heiress! What's her name?

Zoe: We're calling her Cheetah.

Aww, she's a cutie. Now I really have to be on my way.

Zoe: You're not going to forget us again, are you?

I promise, I won't. See you all next round!

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: I know, I know. It's been way too long since I've posted. But for these guys it's been even longer. I actually was informed of my oversight by a comment on the holiday greeting post-on Christmas Eve. Only took me 6 months to remedy that situation. Anyway, Zoe and Zyrtec are having the easiest time with the 50 Dream Dates LTW. And if it seems like nobody ever went to work, it's because they didn't. Between Zoe being pregnant and Zyrtec being unemployed (for what reason I don't remember) these two had a lot of time at home.

Mendoza 3: Round 9

2011-05-09T12:11:00.000-07:00

Last round, Sarima and Fiyero Mendoza along with Emmett and Alice Martin moved in together after completing college. They all began began leading parallel lives, Sarima and Emmett on one side and Alice and Fiyero on the other, which didn't sit well with Sarima after Alice lost most of the family's funds in a botched chance card. Each couple also had a daughter, Penny for Sarima and Emmett and Aerie for Alice and Fiyero.

Hi there, Alice!

Alice: Well, it's about time!

Huh?

Alice: It's been forever since we've seen you.

Yeah, sorry about that. I've had some...things in the works.

Alice: What kind of things?

Just some mysterious voice tasks. Nothing for you to worry about.

Nice job, Sarima.

Sarima: Well, somebody's got to start making some money around here.

Still haven't forgiven Alice for last week yet?

Sarima: It's not that I blame her for it; I just don't see why my finances have to be affected by hers.

Wait...it's this your sister's side of the house?

Fiyero: We stopped caring about that a long time ago. We all use both kitchens and living rooms.

Which must be annoying considering the only way to get from one half of the house to the other is to walk outside.

Fiyero: Nah, it's not so annoying. We just have to change into and out of our winter coats more often.

Maybe that's not so annoying for you...

And now it's time to play "Mother or Aunt?"

Alice: Huh? How would I not know who my own child is?

Trust me, in this house it's easier than you think.

Looks like number 3 is on the way!

Sarima: Correction. Number 2 is on the way. I only have one child.

Oh, right...but it's number 3 for the household.

Sarima: I guess so.

Great job, Fiyero!

Fiyero: (cough) Thanks.

Sorry to see you're not feeling well.

Fiyero: It's ok, I don't think it's anything serious.

Looks like Melena paid a visit.

Sarima: So how's Fini doing at home?

Melena: She's doing well, but she's getting older.

Sarima: Fiyero and I both miss her. We've been trying to talk Alice and Emmett into getting a pet...

I don't think this is what Sarima had in mind. What's up, Mumble?

Let's go with Flashbang...

Oops.

Any minute now...

Nice going, Emmett!

Emmett: Thanks!

You're the first one in this house to get your lifetime want!

Happy birthday, dear Aerie...

...and Penny...

One beautiful young lady...

Two beautiful young ladies.

Aerie: Mom, can I have a little brother or sister too?

Alice: I don't know, honey.

Aerie: But Penny is getting one!

Right now, actually! It's baby time.

Twin gene hasn't kicked in yet...

Sarima: It's a boy!

Great! What's his name?

Sarima: We're calling him Sears.

Aerie: He's so cute, Aunt Sarima! Maybe my mom will want one too.

Sarima: (laughs) Maybe, honey.

I think she's going to have to thaw out first, though...

And I love that it's her brother, not her husband, who thaws her out.

Fiyero: Sorry, honey. I never even saw you out there.

Alice: It's ok, honey.

Fiyero: I have an idea for warming you up, though...

And that's my cue to head out.

And it appears Emmett is giving me a place to go.

Looks like Sarima convinced you, huh?

Emmett: Yeah, she did.

The girls are going to be so excited...

Emmett: And surprised. We haven't told them yet.

Coal: What do you mean you didn't know you were getting a cat today?

Aerie: I really didn't!

Looks like there's another big event today! Happy birthday, dear Sears...

Cute little guy. Looks a lot like his father....

Bonding with your nephew?

Alice: It's so different having a boy around...

Any reason you're teaching Sears to walk outside?

Emmett: I want him to experience the outdoors.

And at night?

Emmett: Um, I don't want him to be afraid of the dark.

Looks like Aerie is going to get what she wanted after all!

I don't think Kaida is the smartest cat in the world...She's yowling for food when her bowl is right next to her.

Aerie: I got an A+!

(holds applause for other cousin...)

Penny: I got an A+ too!

Great job, both of you!

Less great of a job by the nanny, though.

Aerie: It's ok, Kaida. The fire's gone.

Kaida better get used to fires, living in this town.

Glad to see you're enjoying the cat too, Penny. We haven't seen you around much this week.

You've had a good week, Sarima.

Sarima: I'm getting closer!

Looks like number 4 (number 2 for Alice) is almost here!

Alice: Yup!

And I'm glad to see Sears is still doing well...he's pretty much been chilling in his room.

Let's go with bunny rabbits...

Nice!

You win the promotion award this week, Sarima.

Sarima: I know. I'm barely getting a handle on one position before I'm promoted to a new one.

Wait, what? Baby? Many, I need to stop leaving you guys unsupervised...

Sorry I missed the birth, Alice.

Alice: That's ok.

So I'm getting that the baby's a girl named Macy?

Alice: Yup.

And Macy was, of course, born in the tiny bathroom

And she looks just like her mom...

Um, Sarima? What are you doing?

Sarima: Washing the windows.

Any reason why?

Sarima: Not really.

Ok...

Man, you are on fire this week. Metaphorically speaking, of course.

Sarima: Tell me about it.

Happy birthday, dear Sears...

Ok, guys. Let's go over something. When you head to the other kitchen for a birthday party, take the dinner out of the oven first...

Sears is quite a handsome young man, though.

Ok, it's about time for me to move on.

Sears: Ok, see you later mysterious voice!

Try to make sure that cat can find her bowl, ok?

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: I know, I know. It's been so long. I've had a lot going on recently, and there is going to be a longer gap in between posts than there has been in the past. Don't worry, there's always going to be another one coming. Anyway, I really like this house-I'm very bonded to Alice and Emmett. And Emmett had to literally be two steps from Alice to thaw her out-the option didn't come up until I sent him outside. Freaked me out!

Warner 5: Round 9

2011-03-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

Last round, Stream Warner and Capricorn Beesly moved in together after completing college. Both of them dove headfirst into new careers, although Stream quickly found herself on maternity leave with the couple's first child, Chestnut. The week passed by in such a blur that neither of them realized they had yet to marry each other.

Morning not going so well, Stream?

Stream: I guess not. This stove is so unreliable.

Stream: Guess who's growing up tonight, Chestnut!

Big birthday party planned?

Stream: Well, yes and no...

Looks like they're doing the wedding and Chestnut's birthday on the same night. Very efficient.

Hi there, guys! May I say how nice, and now normal, you all look in your suits.

Rome: Bay complained when we tried to leave the house in kimonos and Santa outfits...

I guess Capricorn didn't get the memo about the normal wedding attire.

And it looks like Chestnut wants to get in on the festivities too!

(Although it would have been nice if someone had gotten him dressed before he joined the party...)

You're having a wedding cake?

Stream: Yeah...aren't we supposed to?

I guess so...nobody else around here really does.

Between this and Chestnut's birthday, these guests are going to be on a major sugar high.

Happy birthday, dear Chestnut...

Not bad. I'm thinking a trip to the mirror is in order, though.

Much better.

Chestnut: But Dad, why do I have to go to school now?

Trust me, Chestnut. It's a better option than staying at home with the nanny all day.

Nice job, Capricorn.

Capricorn: Thanks! It's not helping me get closer to the 50 dream dates, though.

Stream: How does the food taste?

Capricorn: It's, um...great. Just great.

Stream: You don't need to lie. I know it's burned.

Still haven't mastered that stove, huh?

Looks like you'd better get that stove under control soon, Stream. Something tells me you'll be cooking more in the near future.

Don't you want to wait until it's light outside before a snowball fight?

Chestnut: No, it's more fun at night!

Man, Coal and Marble are getting around.

Chestnut: Why aren't you wearing a coat?

Marble: I don't know.

Is this what I think it is?

Stream: I know, I know. But I want to make sure I have a girl this time.

You know even this doesn't ensure that you will have a girl.

Stream: Yes, but it will increase the odds a bit.

Man, the only kids I'm seeing around town these days are Marble, Coal, and Milli...I should probably keep tabs on how well these two get along.

Chestnut: Huh? Why?

Never mind...

Looks like it's baby time!

Or babies time. That cheesecake never fails.

Looks like it paid off, though.

Stream: It's a girl!

Great! What's her name?

Stream: We're calling her Hazel!

Stream: I don't think we're done yet...

Stream: We've got another girl!

And her name is?

Stream: We're calling her Almond!

Well, even though the crib is eating her, I can see that Almond got her mom's skin...

And Hazel got her dad's.

And on your first day back from maternity leave, too! Great job, Stream.

Stream: Thanks. I don't know how I'm going to have time to make all the friends I need for the next promotion, though.

Chestnut: I can make them for you, Mom!

Ok, now I'm confused. The nanny is giving the baby a bath instead of just dropping them on the floor? What is going on around here?

Capricorn: Ugh, Almond!

That's what you get for waving her around in the air after feeding her.

Happy birthday, dear Hazel...

...and Almond...

Not bad, but I think a new hairstyle is in order.

Not so much for Almond, though. Good to see Chestnut bonding with her.

Chestnut: Mommy told me to watch her while she fixes Hazel's hair.

Stream: Come on, Almond. Come to Mommy...

Teaching her to walk and teaching her fire safety at the same time. Again, very efficient.

Chestnut: Hi, Grandma. No, Mommy and Daddy can't come to the phone. They're busy with the twins...

Decided to stop by in person, Abigail?

Abigail: It sounded like they could use my help. I know something about having a lot of little ones.

Um, Chestnut? I don't think this is the best animal for you to make friends with.

Chestnut: Why?

Well, the glowing eyes should be your first clue. Anyway, I have to be on my way now. Just try not to get bitten by anything, ok?

Chestnut: Ok!

Alright, then. I'll see everybody next round.

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: First of all, I have to thank the anonymous commenter who suggested Hazel as a girl name for this family on last round's post, and also the one who pointed out that I did in fact have to get Stream and Capricorn married in order to fulfill Abigail's lifetime want. The wedding was actually very nice, though, so I'm glad I did it. I think Capricorn's 50 dream dates are going to be on the back burner for a little while-they only managed to get in two dates in the entire week.

Scott 2: Round 9

2011-03-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

Last round, Topanga Scott and Ocean Warner moved into their new home after graduating from college. They were soon married, and Topanga became pregnant with their first child, Celery. She also joined the gamer career, while Ocean eventually entered the education field while waiting for his true dream job of slacker to be available.

Um, doing some redecorating?

Topanga: This is going to be Celery's bedroom once she grows up. That nursery is much too small.

I seem to remember your bedroom growing up not being much bigger...

Topanga: Exactly. That's how I know.

You're also aware that she won't grow up for a couple more days.

Topanga: Well, it never hurts to be ready early.

I see you've given her a makeover, too.

Topanga: I thought my little princess could use a new hairstyle.

She only had the old hairstyle for about a day and a half, but whatever...

Looks like Slacker finally came up! It's a bit of a pay cut, but it shouldn't be too much of a problem...

Oh, um...let's go with Aliens.

Oops. Did I say the pay cut wouldn't be too much of a problem?

Gee, you sure are taking total bankruptcy pretty well.

Topanga: Well, I did earn my regular salary today. We'll be ok as long as there aren't any more surprises.

Surprise! I thought Celery was going to be an only child.

Topanga: So did I...no worries, though. They'll keep paying me while I'm on maternity leave, and I'm at the top level of my career already. It's not like I'm missing out on any promotions by not going to work.

So, Ocean, can I ask you for a more objective analysis of the financial situation around here?

Ocean: Well, it's not good. We would have been ok, but the re-decoration ate up a lot of our savings. I want Celery to have a nice bedroom, too. But I don't see why we couldn't have just waited until she actually grew up and then exchanged the crib for a bed and the changing table for a desk. That's what my parents did with my sisters' rooms.

Have you brought this up with her?

Ocean: Yeah. She said something about wanting her princess to have what she didn't have.

Again with the princess...

Ocean: Exactly. She's trying to raise a princess on a pauper's salary, and now there's another on the way. I can't see this ending well but I'm holding out hope that she'll come to her senses once Celery grows up.

Well, there's only one way to find that out. Happy birthday, dear Celery...

See? I told you she'd start growing into those cheekbones.

Celery: Huh? What's wrong with my cheeks?

Nothing....nothing at all...

Any minute now, huh?

Topanga: Yup!

So, were those pajamas a gift from your mom?

Celery: Yup! I've got all kinds of princess pajamas! Ones with Belle, and Ariel, and...

Um, can I ask you a question?

Celery: Sure.

How do you know who they are? Last time I checked you guys don't have the Disney channel.

Celery: ....I know that they're princesses, like me.

Uh-huh...changing the subject, are you ready for your first day of school?

Celery: You bet!

Why does this not surprise me? Celery, I don't know if you can wear your Cinderella dress to school. I think that's just for dress-up at home.

Celery: But Mommy said I could, and she's been to my school before. You haven't.

Well, she's got me there.

Ocean: So...your teacher didn't say anything about your dress?

Celery: She said I looked very pretty.

Kind of hoping the teacher would ban it for you, Ocean?

Ocean: Wishful thinking, I know.

Well, we'll return to the dress-code debate in a minute. It's baby time!

No twin genes here...

And I see purple! That can only mean...

Topanga: We have another little princess! We're naming her Brocolli.

Funny, I don't see a crown anywhere...

However, I do see her dad's freckles.

Topanga: So what princess do you want to be today?

Celery: Belle! We're learning to read at school, and Belle likes to read.

Ok, now how on Earth does she know that?

Celery: Well, everybody knows that.

Topanga: See, I don't know what her father is talking about. The princess stuff is not just encouraging her appearance. It's encouraging her to read, too.

Yeah, while dressed in a bright yellow ball gown...because she can't enjoy reading while dressed in a t-shirt and jeans.

Milli: Why do you wear your dress-up to school?

Celery: Because I want to look like a real princess.

Milli: But you couldn't run around in gym class. You kept tripping over your dress.

Celery: It's ok. Princess don't have to run around. They can, but they don't have to.

Ocean: I'm sorry, can we talk about this princess stuff one more time?

Topanga: It's just a phase, Ocean. It's harmless fun.

Ocean: But you seem to be encouraging it an awful lot...

Topanga: Well, I want our girls to feel special, that's all. I want them to feel like they are valued and wanted in our home. When I was growing up my mother just tolerated my presence until I was old enough for her to put me to work in the store. I want my girls to know that they are the most important thing in my life.

Ocean: That's all very well and good, but why does that have to mean her going to school every day looking like it's Halloween?

So, let me take a guess. You're Rapunzel today?

Celery: Nope!

Celery: Today I want to be Jasmine.

Ok, now I know there's no way they're going to be ok with you wearing that in school.

Celery: But it's better than the dresses! I can do gym with this on. I won't trip.

Ocean: Hello? Oh, yes. Hi. Yeah, I...I know. We're...well, I'm working on it. Yeah, absolutely. I'll talk to her about it when she gets home. Ok, thank you. Bye.

Who was that?

Ocean: That was the office at Celery's school. Apparently Cinderella and Belle were fine, but Jasmine was over the line.

I suspected as much.

Oh, goody. The second-in-command is ready to ascend to the throne. Happy birthday, dear Brocolli...

Yup, she got her dad's skin!

Topanga: Good girl, Brocolli. Princesses always use the potty...

Ok, Topanga. This princess thing is starting to get old.

Topanga: It's only while they're little.

But Celery's not that little anymore, and now she's going to school in costume every day.

Topanga: Not anymore. After the school called I had a talk with her. She has to wear regular clothes to school, but she can dress up when she gets home.

I do like the new hair and glasses on Brocolli, though.

Topanga: Thank you.

Topanga: Goodnight, little princess.

So now it's "little" princess?

Topanga: Well, I have to differentiate between them somehow.

And using their names it just too easy?

Celery: Mommy, am I still a princess?

Topanga: Of course. You're always going to be my princess.

Celery: But last night you called Brocolli your princess.

Topanga: Well, I have two princesses now.

Celery: But how can there be two princesses in the same house?

Sounds like Celery's beginning to catch onto something...

Let me guess...the glowing came from "princess milk?"

Topanga: Yup!

Guess calling it smart-milk wouldn't have made her feel special enough, right?

Celery: Hi, Milli. Want to come over? I promise I'll let you be a princess too. No, I just found out there can be two princesses at the same time. Yes there can! What do you mean only one is really the princess?

So, um...just out of curiosity...what were you and Milli talking about?

Celery: Milli says that there can only be one princess at a time, because the princess is supposed to be the most important one and if someone else is just as important, then she's not really the princess.

Uh-huh...

Celery: But Mommy told me that both me and Brocolli are both princesses because she loves us both the same.

Did she, now?

I think Celery might be starting to grow out of the princess stage, Topanga.

Topanga: See? I told you. It's just a phase...

But if Brocolli's nightgown is any indication, it's a phase that won't be over in this house for quite awhile.

A Message From the Mysterious Voice: I had a lot of fun with this house. Given how Topanga was raised, it made sense that she would go in the complete opposite direction with raising her own daughters. Brocolli (yes, I realize I spelled her name wrong) was a surprise. If a Sim isn't showing pregnancy when I leave the house, I often forget that another baby is on the way before I get to them again. And yes, I made all of Celery's princess attire specifically for this storyline-it will be up on Simboree in the near future.

Mendoza 2: Round 9

2011-03-18T06:15:00.000-07:00

Last round, twin sisters Glinda and Nessarose Mendoza continued to raise almost-identical families with their respective husbands, Bronx and Harlem. Both of them became pregnant for a second time, and each gave birth to a second daughter; Jade for Nessarose and Harlem and Kelly for Glinda and Bronx. Meanwhile, the couples' first daughters Emerald and Fern grew from toddlers to children and started school.

Um, hi there guys.

Bronx: Hi, mysterious voice.

May I ask what's going on?

Harlem: Just a little early morning workout.

I see...do I smell something burning?

Maybe Bronx shouldn't have left his breakfast in the oven while he worked out.

Now, refresh my memory...she's not your kid, right?

Harlem: No. My toddler is the one with red hair.

Right! Got it.

Now, she's your sister, right?

Fern: Yeah. That's why I'm playing with her.

Ok, good to know. You and Emerald don't have hairstyles that match either parent. But just so you know, you can play with your cousin too, you know.

Fern: When I grow up, I want to be an astronaut.

Emerald: You can't be an astronaut! Nobody is an astronaut.

Fern: I can be a space pirate. That's kind of close.

Kind of begs the question of how they know what an astronaut is, though.

Ok, this is messing me up...where are her actual parents?

Glinda: They're around. I just got to her first.

Oh, ok. In that case...happy birthday, dear Jade...

...and Kelly...

Very cute.

Jade: Thanks!

Also very cute.

Kelly: Thanks!

Another workout?

Harlem: I've taken up yoga.

I can see that...that doesn't look comfortable at all. Or possible, for that matter.

Jade: You better not sit next to me at school. The teachers already think Fern and Emerald are twins. I don't want them thinking we are too.

Kelly: Well you'd better not sit next to me either. I want to make new friends.

Looks like Fern's providing an example for that one. Who's this?

Fern: This is my new friend Callie...she and her family just moved here.

Callie...oh, right. I forgot about you guys.

Fern: What do you mean you forgot about her? You don't go to her house.

Callie: Technically we don't have a house...just a lawn.

Don't worry, I'll drop by soon to remedy that...in a way.

Looks like Emerald is making a friend, too...one who's actually a citizen of this town.

Marble: You're a twin too? That's so cool.

Emerald: We're not twins! We're just cousins.

Another day, another birthday. Happy birthday, dear Fern...

...and Emerald...

Not bad.

Same goes for you, Emerald. Now, have you two chosen aspirations?

Fern: I want a big family!

We'll have to discuss the definition of "big" but alright. Family it is.

Emerald: I want a lot of friends!

Alright, another popularity Sim!

And I guess that decides what the definition of "big family" is, doesn't it? If I didn't know better I'd say she chose that just to get around my efforts at population control...

Really, Emerald? I'm having a hard enough time getting this done for Tangerine...

Hey, look who dropped by. Fern, meet Connecticut.

Connecticut: Hi, um...this is kind of awkward.

Fern: Just a bit.

How is your friend cold? It's almost summer.

Emerald: He's not cold. This is just how he looks all the time.

Oh...so who is he, anyway?

Emerald: This is Risto Cooprider. His family's new here too. Say, do you guys have a house?

Risto: Yeah, it's in the other part of town.

Emerald: Other part of town? There's another part of town?

Risto: You're not missing much. It's not great.

I have no influence over the living conditions in the other part of town, Risto.

Looks like that robot station paid off! So now everybody has their lifetime want, right?

Harlem: Everybody except for Glinda. She wants to send 3 children to college.

Oh, right...that third child.

Harlem: There's not much they can do about that now. There's already eight people living here.

Nessarose: I'm so proud of you for earning $100,000!

Harlem: I never thought I would get there.

Coal: So how do you like having a twin?

Kelly: I don't have a twin.

Coal: Yes, you do. Jade...

Kelly: We're not twins!

Something tells me that's gong to be a constant refrain for these girls.

Looks like Risto made the cut!

As did Connecticut! Pushing through the awkwardness paid off, I guess.

I like the new hairstyle, Jade.

Jade: Thanks!

Decided to take up fishing?

Kelly: There's not much else to do.

I guess fishing is a better pastime than whacking each other with pillows.

Harlem: Huh?

Never mind...

Ok, the week is winding down. Time to get the scholarships lined up. Nice job, Fern!

You too, Emerald.

Emerald: Thanks.

Alright, I will see both of you girls at graduation! Everybody else, I'll see you next round!

A Message from the Mysterious Voice: This house is both chaotic and confusing. Unlike the other shared sibling houses, where I built the house as a duplex and have a clear devision between the families, these guys live in one big 4-bedroom house. I always forget which couple sleeps in which bedroom, or which child belongs to which parent. And you may have noticed that I've added some new custom townies. Callie is actually supposed to be one, but I forgot to go into her family's (temporary) lot, age her up, and add her family to the townie pool. So don't be surprised if you see her as a teenager on another lot.