Beyond Sunset Valley---A Town Jump Story

[deedee_828]

But with Grim gone, Rory succumbs again to the loss of his father-in-law.

In truth, Samuel had been much more of a father to him than his own so he's devastated at the loss.




And in the midst of his grief, birthday sparkles hit him, with only his son Eric a witness to them!




But Eric overcomes his innate grumpiness to wish his father a happy birthday and Lorelei plays a tune on the piano.

Nothing overly upbeat as she's still grieving over Samuel, but something to let Rory know his birthday isn't being totally overlooked.




And Ella, in her state of loss, does the only thing she knows how, she throws a potion at her feet.




A ghost potion to be specific.

"You want to be a ghost right after your grandpa passed away Ella?" I ask concerned.

"I'm hoping I can get Grandpa Samuel to come out so I can see him again! I thought maybe he'd do that quicker if I was a ghost too."

"Maybe. It's worth a shot. Especially if it helps you get through his passing."




But, despite her ghostliness, Samuel doesn't appear and she dejectedly hangs her head in her disappointment.

Lorelei does her best to console her young granddaughter, patting her arms as she says, "We all miss him honey and I'm sure he'll visit us soon, whether you're a ghost or not."

With her lips trembling Ella replies, "I hope so Gramlei. I want to tell him I love him and miss him!"

"Ella sweetheart, your grandpa knows that already! You've never, ever given him reason to doubt it. But I know you just want to see him and tell him one more time, just like I do."




But Lorelei's not done consoling her young grandchildren, as once she's finished a soothing soak in the tub, young Darren flings himself in her arms sobbing, "It hurts so much Gramlei. I can't stop the hurt!"

"Don't try to stop it dear. Tears help cleanse the hurt and show our loved ones how much we miss them."

Still sniffing, Darren asks, "So it's okay to cry? Even for boys? Cullen says we should be brave and not cry!"

"Oh sweetie, showing your feelings, even crying, isn't a sign of weakness. It's an expression of the love we had for those no longer with us. Being Brave doesn't mean you don't have to show love or caring, sometimes you have to be brave to do those things, despite what others may say."




Rory consoles himself by meeting his newborn daughter and playing with her.

"Well, aren't you a beauty with your mother's pretty pink sparkles! And it's a good thing you got your maternal Gramlei's Brave trait to go along with your paternal grandmother's Insane one. Maybe it will balance out a bit better for you sweetling. But I promise you we'll do our best to make your life a happy one, despite any negative traits you may get or your rather inauspicious arrival."

Merida's happy gurgles let Rory know that she's none the worse for being overshadowed by Grim's arrival and the loss of her grandfather.




And before they head to their own home, Tia rocks outside on the back deck with Lorelei.

Her voice filled with emotion, Tia says, "Samuel told me how much I've added to the family, me and Rory, but I never got to tell him just how much he meant to me."

Lorelei says softly, "Just like I told Ella earlier tonight, he knows, dear, he knows. And I must add my own thanks to his as well. You and Rory have been inspirations to us all, embracing this family as your own, focusing on traits you hadn't been able to explore before, being loving and supportive of both Lucas and Cinda."

As Lorelei's words soothe the hurt and ache just a bit, they rock in companionable silence, both lost in their own thoughts.




Cinda, like Rory, finds solace in caring for little Merida telling her about her grandfather.

"He was a great man, little one, and we'll tell you all about him as you grow up. I'm just sorry he never got to meet you or hold you and that your first hours have been filled with such sorrow. Stay brave little one and things will hold more happiness for all of us soon."




Then she joins her mother outside still carrying Merida, braving the outdoors again rather than let her mother suffer alone.

And Lorelei can't resist the sight of the new baby, saying, "She's so sweet Cinda! It's such a shame her arrival was so overshadowed. Mémé Sophie was right all those years ago, Grim has the worst timing!"

Cinda frowns and says, "And I wish I'd had the foresight to take a page out of her book and give him a piece of my mind! But with Merida's birth happening and then dad's passing right after that, I never even got the chance."

Lorelei shakes her head and says, "That's probably for the best. I still have to meet him down the road and I wouldn't want to do that with bad feelings for our family on his side. Sophie may have gotten away with it, but she never had to meet him on those terms. And I'd hate for Grim to take his feelings out on me. I want to be able to spend my ghostly years peacefully with your dear father and the rest of the family ghosts."

"Oh, I never thought of that. I guess it was best for me to leave well enough alone and have his last parting be getting Rory's autograph. Hopefully that will make him a bit more benevolent towards our family the next time we have to meet him." But with a quick look at her mother she added, "But not for a very long time, I can't bear the thought of losing you too, Mom!"

"And I don't plan on going any time soon! As much as I want to join the family ghosts and fulfill my destiny, and be with your father for eternity, I'm happy right where I am for now, in the bosom of my family."

I'm not sure if it was just me, but it seems like both of them spoke loud enough for Grim to hear and take note of both their wishes!




And Rae pays us a visit on this sorrowful night.

I find her rocking in the nursery, always one to show up after the birth of a new baby.

But without her usual smile as she says, "The birth of a nooboo is supposed to be so joyful but to be followed so quickly by a loss, it takes some of the joy away. I agree with Cinda on this one, Grim really needed to be taken to task for such poor timing! He could have at least waited until Samuel had met and held his new granddaughter."

"I know, I was pretty shocked at the timing too. I knew Samuel's time was close, but that was really the worst possible moment."




The next afternoon, Lorelei goes in to the restaurant hoping work will help her get through her grief, so Cinda decides to welcome Marshall and Dahlia's twins.

As she gets to the front door, she sees Ella quite down hearted and asks her to come along, hoping that the nooboos will ease some of the pain of her grandfather's passing.

"We're all sad Ella, but maybe you'd like to help me welcome the new twins to the family?"

"Okay mommy, I guess I could do that. They had a boy and a girl, just like me and Eric. I wonder if they'll look alike?"

"It's a little too early to tell when they're nooboos, but we'll find out soon enough. Let's go!"




Dahlia greets them after Ella lightly knocks on the door, so as not to wake the babies with the doorbell.

And they both follow her inside, with Ella still in anguish over Samuel's passing, but grief and loss take time to overcome, and not enough has passed for the family to be smiling yet.

Undercover Agent Schmidt makes sure no one intrudes on the families grief, keeping reporters and photographers at bay.




While Dahlia feeds a bottle to Sammy, who takes after his namesake being both Friendly and Artistic, Marshall introduces his youngest daughter to Cinda.

"Since we named her twin Sammy, we named her Lorie, after mom. But she doesn't take after mom like Sammy takes after dad."




As Cinda picks up her new niece, she's mesmerized by the dark blue sparkles surrounding her!

Then she exclaims, "She's a fairy just like Merida! Oh Marshall, Grandpa Adam was right, once we stopped worrying about it, the genetics took care of themselves! We both have fairy daughters that can grow up together, our deepest wishes have come to pass."

She doesn't say it aloud, but a mean little voice inside adds, *Boy does Grim have a lot to answer for, taking dad away before he got to meet his two fairy granddaughters, and of course his namesake, little Sammy! He better beware the next time he comes around or my name's not Lucinda Frio!*

Besides being a fairy like her dad, Lorie's Good like her mother, and Clumsy like her great-grandpa Logan from days gone by, so she got something from each of her parents as well as a previous family member.




But with the birth of the twins, we decide the triplets' child birthdays need to be next on the agenda.

So the family gathers in the kitchen as Michael is brought to his cake.




And once the sparkles disappear, he stands before us a child.

A child who is now Mean-Spirited!

Marshall's still clapping away, totally oblivious to this new trait development, but Michael looks quite dismayed, and Cinda hopes she had nothing to do with passing this trait down to her nephew.




Marshall reassures his sister that it's nothing to do with her but Cinda's taking no chances and leaves the room just in case.

And I realize that's it's not just due to Michael's trait, but that she's totally overcome by her grief again and wants to cry in private.




Lorelei's gotten off work and joined them as Dahlia places Mahlia on the floor, after helping her blow out her candles.




But Cinda's hopes that leaving the room would help in the trait department are soon dashed when Mahlia ages up to child and now Hates the Outdoors!

It seems that Cinda's presence in the house is giving off her negative traits left and right!

It's probably just coincidence but I doubt I'll be able to convince her of that in her current state of mind.




Finally, it's young Nathan's turn and he's brought to the third cake.




And though both his birth mates cheer loudly for him, Nathan continues the child negative trait trend by becoming Inappropriate!

I can hear Jerad's laughter and see the smirk on his face already!




With Nathan dressed in his new pajamas and rocking nearby, Lorelei feeds her youngest grandson a bottle.

She cradles him gently, so proud that they've named him Sammy and he's taken after his grandfather in both his traits.

At least he got positive ones to start with, so if he follows the rest of the children getting a not so great one, he'll still have those two to fall back on.

But at the thought of her dear Samuel, Lorelei's heart break returns knowing he's no longer with her.




Then she settles down with her own namesake in the girl's room upstairs.

And marvels anew that both Cinda and Marshall have fairy daughters to carry on Mémé Sophie's genes.

They had both been so worried with their other children and with that weight lifted off them, they've both been blessed.

"Fate sure works in mysterious ways Watcher. Samuel's passing is such a great loss to all of us, but we have the birth of four new little Frios to carry on his genetics and Sammy to carry on his name and best traits too."

"Yes, Lucas calling to tell us that he and Tia had a baby girl was wonderful news! I'm so glad that it worked out for them. All the new babies will be such a positive focus for everyone."

"It's hard to suppress joy around nooboos Watcher, even amidst my sorrow, I feel joy, my own as well as Samuel's. And I know that though the sorrow has the upper hand right now, one day the joy will surpass it again. In time."

"Since we've not experienced a loss like this in so many generations it could take more time than usual,  but it takes as long as it takes. Each one of you needs to work through your grief in your own way. Take all the time you need Lorelei."




Samuel's passing is still fresh in the minds and hearts of his family and his loss will be felt for some time to come.

But amidst that loss we have four new Frios that have just joined the family.

You've met Merida, Sammy, and Lorie, but not Lucas and Tia's daughter, so she'll feature in the next chapter.

As well as seeing how the family continues to cope with their loss.

Some of them seek friends, others draw closer to family.

And Rory, despite his grief, or maybe because of it, starts shouldering adult responsibility as the new patriarch of the Frio heir family.

Join me in Chapter 188: Picking Up the Torch
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Early the next morning, I find Eric riding on Buzzy Bee, trying to cheer himself up.

"I was hoping having a little fun would make me feel better Watcher. But it's hard to smile with grandpa gone."

"I can see that you're trying though Eric. Maybe there's something else you'd like to do? I still see that promised learn-to-fish wish hanging around."

"Could I go fishing Watcher? Do you think mom and dad would let me?"

"Why don't you go ask?"




Rory agreed to a fishing expedition, thinking it would be beneficial to do something to take their minds of Samuel, so they packed up their gear, headed to the nearest fishing hole and popped in their lines close to an active spot.

"This is great dad! Just look at all those fish jumping around. We'll catch a bunch in no time!"

"Since I've never fished before son, I'll be happy to catch even one!"

"Really dad? You never went fishing with your father?"

"No. My family was different from the Frio's Eric. My mom, your grandmother Odessa, well, she had some difficult traits to deal with and my dad spent most of his time cleaning up the messes she left behind. But your Uncle Lucas gave my sister, your Aunt Tia, some good advice when he wasn't much older than you, telling her how his family helped each other overcome negative traits and encouraged positive ones."

"Like Gramlei did with me and Cullen when we started yelling at each other? Telling us to say, 'sorry' and be nice, help each other instead of yell?"

"Yes, just like that. Not the easiest thing to do, but it was a turning point in both our lives. Our family life was better after that, but still not as great as when we joined the Frio family. You've been born into a good family son, never forget that! I'm not saying they're perfect, because we all have some things we'd like to change about ourselves."




Eric thinks about that for a moment, pulls on his line a bit, and then asks, "Even you dad?"

"Oh, yeah Eric, especially me! My only good trait is Artistic, and you Can't Stand Art, so we won't dwell on that one, but the rest of them are harder for me to deal with. I'm Over-emotional, which means I have higher highs and lower lows than most sims. And I'm a Loner, so I prefer being by myself to being with others." Seeing the startled look on his young sons' face, he adds, "That doesn't apply to spending time with you or your sisters, or any family members, just that if there's a crowd, I'll be a bit uncomfortable."

Relieved, Eric asked, "Well, that's only three, what are the others?"

"They get worse son. Are you sure you want to know?"

Firming up his shoulders, Eric said, "I'm sure dad. How can I help you overcome them if I don't know what they are?!"

"Good point Eric! And that's something to remember with others. You never know what traits they may have to deal with, so try to find out what they may be going through rather than just take offense at their words or actions. But..oh, where was I going with this…?"

Puzzled Eric says, "You were telling me about your other two traits dad! How could you forget in the middle of telling me?"

With a disgusted sigh, Rory answers, "Because my worst trait is Absent-minded! I constantly have to write things down so I don't forget them! My family laughed at me a lot about that when I was growing up! But doing research for all my books has helped me to overcome it a lot."

Then Rory remembers just how much Cinda was willing to help him in that area and he smiles and adds, "I call your mom Cinda because thinking of Cinderella was the only way for me to remember her name. And instead of getting mad at me for that, your mom had everyone call her 'Cinda'! And she even picked fairy tale names for you and your sisters so I could remember them easier!"




"I'm named after a fairy tale?" Eric asks with a bit of a frown, not liking that idea much at all. "But fairy tales are for girls!"

"You are named after Prince Eric from the fairy tale Ariel. He sailed a great ship on the ocean, and fell in love with a mermaid with beautiful red hair." Seeing Eric's frown grow, he quickly adds, "He was not only royalty, but a skilled seaman and swordsman and rescued Ariel and the underwater kingdom from the evil octopus Ursula!"

At this final explanation, Eric's eyes have grown round and he says, "Well, that doesn't sound so bad."

And then Eric reveals part of the reason for wanting this fishing trip.

"Dad, do you miss Grandpa Samuel?"

"Yes Eric, I do very much. He took me in and treated me like a son, him and your Gramlei, and I thought of him as my father. The father of my heart. And it's hard for me not to cry when I think of him being gone."

"But I'm not Over-emotional dad, so does that mean I shouldn't cry?"

"Not at all Eric. Crying when you lose someone you love, someone important in your life, is normal and healthy. Tears of sadness, like tears of joy, are nothing to be ashamed of or something you should try to hold back. They can be a release too, of very strong emotions."




But before Eric can ask about Rory's last trait, Ella joins them, showing her displeasure at being left behind with her first words, "I can't believe you didn't ask me to come along Eric! You know I wanted to learn to fish too!"

"Yeah, but girls say stuff like that then they get all fussed up about worms being icky. So I don't want to hear it when it's time to replace your worm or take a fish off the hook. You followed us here, so just remember that!"

Seeing his father's raised eye brow, Eric changes his tone just a bit, and says, "Well, we could help you at first, if it bothers you, I guess."

But the argument is quickly forgotten when Rory catches the first fish, surprising not only the children but himself!




But Eric catches one soon enough and as reels in his first fish, Rory pulls in a second one!

Ella feels a bit left out, but her father reassures her by saying, "We've been here some time Ella and have already gained a fishing point, so give it some time and you'll catch one too."




As they enjoy each others company and the beautiful summer day, Rory starts chatting about hobbies, letting the children know that though his favorite hobbies include writing and painting, there are many others that appeal to sims.

"Don't think that just because I paint that it's the only one I'd think was worthwhile. There are merits to all types of hobbies and interests. Try different ones until you find one you really enjoy. My parents never encouraged me to paint when I was young, in fact, they forbid me and your Aunt Tia from painting at all! But I would never do such a thing to my children. I want you to feel free to explore anything that catches your interest. Like fishing! I've really enjoyed learning the skill and spending time with the both of you. But if Eric hadn't asked me, we would have all missed out on a great time."

Smiling, Eric feels closer to his father than ever before, despite the fact that he Can't Stand Art!

And showing insight beyond his young years, Eric says, "Dad, having you say that, and tell me all that other stuff, I don't miss Grandpa Samuel quite as much. It's almost like he's still here."




Almost overcome by emotion at his son words, Rory says, "No one could fill your Grandpa Samuel's shoes Eric, his legacy will live on in all of his children and grandchildren. He was a great man! I can only hope to be half the man and father he was. But I will sure try to do my best."

"Well, I think you've learned a lot from him already, staying at parties even when you don't like crowds, taking me fishing when you've never gone before, letting me know it's okay to not like painting and art, telling us we can choose any hobby."
 
But Ella zeroed in on her brother's previous words and asked, "What other stuff?"

"Dad was telling me about when he grew up and about his traits, so I can help him overcome the bad ones. Though they're not really so bad, except for forgetting stuff all the time. You could probably help too, Ella, we just have to remember things for him sometimes, like what he was talking about or where he put something, stuff like that."

"I could help with that, dad! But… if you don't remember stuff, you probably can't help me…" Ella trails off a bit disappointed.

Rory smiles and says, "I will do my best to help you Ella, with what in particular?"

"Well, Grandpa Samuel promised he'd help me find a Unicorn, I was actually hoping that with him gone, you might be able to help me with that dad. Darren told me that they hang around ponds and lakes with grassy areas, so maybe we can keep checking out this fishing hole?"

"And while we're waiting around, we could always fish right?" Rory asked his daughter, his smile growing bigger.

Nodding enthusiastically, Ella replies, "Eric's right dad, you figure things out a lot like Grandpa!"

Then it dawns on Eric that his father never told him his fifth trait so he asks, "What's your last trait dad?"

Rory, his pale cheeks showing a bloom of color, answers with, "I was hoping you'd forget to ask. It's rather embarrassing! I don't like being without clothes."

Eric shakes his head and says, "Oh, Never Nude, just like cousin David. That's no big deal dad!"

And at his son's blasé attitude about it, Rory realizes it isn't really.




Once he's back at the house and without his children to provide a distraction, Rory succumbs to grief again.

"I'm sorry this has hit you so hard Rory. But like you told Eric, you are Over-Emotional, so things like this will bother you more than most."

"I just wasn't expecting it to feel so painful Watcher. I never felt anything like this when my own father passed. A sadness yes, that we hadn't been closer, that he was gone and leaving my mother and brother on their own. But this is an actual physical ache, one that almost crushes me sometimes."

"It can be that way, Rory, when one we have been close to, respected, and loved, has moved on from this earthly plane, it's such a void in our lives. Things will happen and you'll actually think about sharing them with them and then you'll realize with a shock that they're not there to share it with. The hurt and heartache will strike with a force that almost takes your breathe away."

"That's not very reassuring Watcher! I was hoping you had words far more comforting than that!" he says accusingly.

"It's better to be prepared than to be given false hope Rory. For me to tell you the pain will go away quickly would be a falsehood, a lie, one that would end up hurting you more in the long run. And causing hurt to any of you is something I try to avoid at all costs. But here in your world, you have the comfort that your loved ones are accessible, as with their urns and gravestones on your lot, they can come and go at will."




Seeing that Merida's awake, he picks her up and cuddles her close, saying, "Well, that is a bit of a comfort, being human, and with a normal lifespan, I know I'll be joining them one day."

"Only if you wish it so Rory. I could extend your life long enough for you to stay in the next town with Cinda, your children, and your grandchildren, while the heir family continues the journey. I've done the same for other spouses married to fairies, so it's only fair that I give you the same choice."




Startled at this option, Rory stares into Merida's sweet face, and adds, "So I wouldn't have to leave Cinda or our children? I could remain with them instead of continuing with the family as one of the ghosts? But if that choice was an option, why did Grandpa Adam not stay with his Sophie?"

"Adam wanted to continue the journey. But he actually met Grim and extended his life using a death flower. But that only starts the elder years over again. When he passed before it was time to move to the next town, Sophie bravely stayed in Twinbrook, so all four of the heir family children could continue the journey to the next town. After that, with so many fairy heirs, I allowed their spouses to stay with them. But Lorelei's human and she's always felt it was her destiny to join the family ghosts, but she does have an extended lifespan, due to a Genie wish that Crewe's wife JoAnna made. I didn't realize at the time that the longer lifespan would pass on to the children and become a permanent part of their genetics."

"Oh, so that's why Cinda and Marshall have such long lives, their fairy genetics plus the extended lifespan from a genie wish."

"Exactly, and I haven't been allowing any other spouses to use the genie wishes. But I feel it's only fair that you be given the choice to stay with Cinda. It's not something you need to decide right now. You've got plenty of time to think it over and discuss it with Cinda, or anyone else you'd like to talk it over with. It's a big decision Rory and one I'm leaving up to you."




Lucas brings his boys over for a visit, happy to see Eric walking eagerly over to greet Darren.

He hopes the cousins will get along and become friends.




He's even happier when he sees Eric and Cullen putting aside their differences and playing a game of tag, but he doesn't hang around outside for long as he's still plagued by nature.

If he had, he would have been proud of both boys, as Eric's decided to take his father's words to heart and open the door to understanding and in time, friendship.

His first attempt at that has him saying, "You caught me fair and square. You sure can run fast! Even with my fairy wings I don't think I could outrun you, but I won't fly 'cause that wouldn't be fair."

Taken a bit aback by his cousin's new attitude, Cullen asks, "Why would you care if it was fair as long as you won?"

Bending over and gasping for breathe, Eric slowly replies, "Because it wouldn't be right to take advantage of my wings when you don't have any. If I did and was able to avoid you, you would get mad and lose your temper, and then I'd get all grumpy and yell back. It's better to avoid doing things that would lead us to giving in to our negative traits."

Surprised Cullen says, "So you really are going to do what Gramlei said and try and help me? I thought you said that just 'cause she made you!"

Deciding to be honest, Eric says, "Well, at the time I did just say it because she made me. That foot-tapping and 'look' she gives you, it's hard not to do what she wants! But after the fishing trip with my dad today, he helped me to understand that everyone deals with bad traits, some more than others. And if I want help dealing with mine, it's only fair to help others deal with theirs. Besides, Grandpa Samuel wouldn't like it if we kept fighting. And I don't want to do anything he wouldn't like. Him or my dad. It makes me feel bad."

Cullen nods in agreement Bravely saying, "Losing my temper makes me feel bad too. And now that I've been on the other end of Gramlei's foot-tapping and 'look', I don't want to be there again! I've seen my mom do that to my dad too, and she's almost as good as Gramlei at it! So if you're willing to try, so am I. I'm hot! Let's go for a swim in the pool! Your wings won't help you there!"

The loss of his grandfather and his new closeness to his own father have both helped Eric understand the importance of family and Cullen's decided to meet him halfway.

It might not be a big step for most sims, but for two young boys, one hot-headed and one grumpy, it's pretty huge!




Later that afternoon, Lorelei joins Lucas and the boys when they head home, before she heads off to work.

She has one more grandchild to meet.

And when she first sets eyes on her, she realizes they have been blessed yet again, for the nooboo has the MH skin tone!

Not exactly as light as her mother's, but definitely genetics from the Hyde/Winchester side of the family.

And Tia explains that as soon as they saw her they wanted to use a MH name, "But Odette was already named after mom, and we didn't like Hyde for a girl, so we named her Winnie!"

"It's perfect Tia and so is she! I'll bring her upstairs and spend some time with her while you get some rest."




Upstairs, she feeds, changes, and plays with little Winnie telling her how beautiful and special she is.

I don't know if Lorelei's thinking about it, but I know I'm wondering if, having her Mom's skin tone, Winnie will also get Tia's red hair!

Not for the genetics but just because I'm partial to it and it's so beautiful.

While I'm busy thinking about that, Lorelei consoles herself with work and her grandchildren, getting through hour after hour, day after day, as best she can without her Samuel by her side.




Odette wasn't home at the time of her grandpa Samuel's passing so isn't as overwhelmed by grief as the rest of her family.

But she still takes solace in chatting with her IF doll, Rags.

Somewhere between the time Rags became an imaginary friend and now, she's just reverted to doll form, and unfortunately, right after Odette plays with her here, she disappears altogether!

"I'm sure if we mentioned it to Ella, Odette, she'd be more than happy to research it and see if it's possibly to get Rags back."

But Odette was okay with it saying, "I know I'll miss Rags a bit, Watcher, but I'll be a teenager pretty soon, making real friends, and moving on from childish toys."




With friendship on her mind, Odette heads back to the Summer Festival to spend some time with Chase.

Apparently Chase had so much fun with the water balloon fight last time, he's invited not only Odette but the Fields siblings, Leonard and Candice, so they can have a double duel at the water balloon arena!




And Chase looks like he's really enjoying himself with Odette as his partner.




Or maybe Leonard Fields will catch her eye when they age to teen?

Since both boys are children of original residents, they're both eligible as a future boyfriend, prom date, or spouse.

We'll have to see what happens in a few days after all their teen birthdays, or what monkey wrenches SP will throw into the mix.

Though I have never been opposed to stealing an eligible spouse when it comes down to it!




But choosing a boyfriend is the last thing on Odette's mind, as when it gets dark and her friends head for home, she checks out the roller skating rink.

She's quite wobbly at first, in danger of falling any second.




Then she gets the hang of keeping her balance and is soon steadily skating around the rink.

With the success of her first attempt at skating under her belt, she heads home to tell her family all about it.




Then, as the early morning sun starts to rise, Adam pops in for a brief word as he settles into the rocker.

"The couples had taken my words to heart, to be joyful at the birth of their children, no matter what, and then this happens! It's a slap in the face Watcher! To have their joy taken away at such a time. I know that's how the circle of life works, but if my Sophie were here…"

"We all know how she dealt with Grim, Adam, but Lorelei's already helped Cinda to see it's probably for the best not to antagonize him. Though Your Sophie took a rather familiar attitude with him, and Grim allowed her to do so, he is the Ruler of the Underworld, and not someone we should abuse. We still have several generations to go on our journey and being on Grim's bad side wouldn't help us one bit!"

"You're right Watcher, all of you! But it's still such a shame that little Merida's birth day had to fall on the same day as her grandfather's passing. And two more grandchildren born shortly afterward. Three new Frio's all on the same day!"

"And another the next day! Lucas and Tia have a baby girl they named Winnie, so if we look at it that way, the Frio's come off the winner, four to one."

"So they do Watcher, so they do."




Later that morning, I start getting multiple messages about children skipping school, so I go and check it out.

Looks like a bit of overcrowding at the front doors!

I decided to give all of the current teens different schooling options and sent them off to appropriate places of higher education.




With the doors more accessible, the remaining children headed inside to begin their school day.

All except Ella, who was overcome by another burst of tears at the loss of her dear grandpa Samuel.

But once she recovered she headed inside too and bravely endured the school day despite her loss.



 
That afternoon all three of the children came home in better spirits, especially Odette who's attended her last day of grade school.

The oldest of this generation will be celebrating her teen birthday tonight!

"Do you think it will change her much Eric, being a teen?" Ella asks anxiously.

Eric frowns and says, "It better not! I'm certainly not going to let her be the boss of me! If she starts acting too high and mighty, I'll just play a fairy trick on her, and she'll be changing her tune fast enough!"

"Mom won't like that Eric, you're not supposed to play fairy tricks on those that can't play them back."

Eric shrugs and says, "She could always prank me back. You don't have to be a fairy to do that."

"But you can hide in the fairy house and she can't follow you there, so it still doesn't seem fair."

With a gleam in his eye, Eric smirks and says, "Fair or not, if she starts it by trying to boss me or you around, I'll make sure she regrets it!"

Ella, conflict making her nervous, replies, "We'll be teens soon enough, and she'll probably be too busy learning to drive and doing other teen stuff to bother with us anyway."




With Odette's teen birthday in the next chapter, I've got my fingers crossed for some better traits for the teen years since the child traits left something to be desired.

I'm with Ella on avoiding conflict, as with Samuel's passing there's been enough emotional upheaval in the house.

And with three teens pretty soon, and all the drama and mood swings that can cause, along with Merida becoming a toddler, we'll have enough to deal with!

Let's see if we can break the bad trait trend in Chapter 189: A Teen in the House
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Odette's jubilant after her last day of grade school, excitedly telling her father, "Dad, dad, I kept my 'A'! My teacher said that focusing so much in grade school will make high school easier, even if my grade will start back at a 'C'."

Rory says, "Keeping focused on each subject and learning how to study at a young age is always a good thing. It can really make your teen and later years much easier. I didn't have that kind of a childhood, so I'm really glad you and your siblings have grown up with such a good foundation."

"Eric and Ella told me about some of the things you talked about when you went fishing, especially about you being Absent-Minded, dad. I'm definitely going to try and help you with that too. Though, after my birthday, I wouldn't mind if you forgot about my curfew now and then!"

Rory smiled and said, "Even if I did, I'm sure your mother and Gramlei would be keeping an eye on the clock!"




I find Cinda rocking Merida and looking thoughtful, so I ask, "Something on your mind?"

"My oldest daughter becomes a teen tonight! Of course there's something on my mind! Have we given her the best childhood we could? Balanced love and kindness with discipline so she can make wise choices? Have I indulged my mean-spiritedness too much and let it rub off on her or any of my children? The list goes on and on Watcher!"

"Relax Cinda. All good parents worry about those things. You, Rory, and your parents have done a wonderful job with this generation."

"Well, thank you for saying that Watcher, but what about the cycle of the not-so-great childhood traits? I can't help wondering if it was me being there that influenced the traits Marshall's triplets got! Two of them getting traits of mine seems more than just a coincidence."

"I don't think it had anything to do with you Cinda, but even if it did, let's just move on and hope for the best for the teen years. It's not like we can do much about them since we don't get to choose. So I think we need to stay positive and if the teen traits are less than great, well, we'll just have to work a little harder to help the teens overcome them, just like we've done in all the generations before this." 

As my words sink in, I can see Cinda visibly relax as the tension flows out of her, and with relief in her voice she says, "Enjoy the now, and let the future take care of itself. Grandpa Adam's words apply in so many ways Watcher. I just need to keep reminding myself of them."

"You and me too, Cinda. You and me too." 




"Gramlei, is it almost done?" asks and excited Odette as she stands before her cake. "Everyone's ready."




"I'm taking it out of the oven now Odette. Go ahead and blow out your candles."




As Odette gets ready to make her wish, her family and friends cheer her on."

David watches solemnly knowing he'll be joining her soon as a teen, while the rest of the children, including Candice Fields and Chase Marks, blow party horns, twirl noise makers, or just clap and yell birthday wishes.

Rory joins in by blowing his own party horn as Cinda watches her daughter make her last wish as a child.




Then the sparkles hit and she twirls…




And stands before us a pretty and Charismatic teenage girl!

One who puts her new trait to good use as she says, "Watcher dear, make-up, new clothes, and a new hairstyle, if you please."




I can't resist such an appealing request, especially since I'm not fond of her age up blue and green outfit.

So we pop into stylist, where I find that whether she's donning her comfy and casual athletic outfit,




Or rocking her outwear, both in black and purple, pretty Odette stuns me with her beauty!

Her MH skin with shades of plum is just gorgeous, and her dark locks and eyes compliment it quite dramatically.

But I'm biased when it comes to my sims, so maybe it's just me!




But the party guests are waiting so we join them back in the kitchen wearing her everyday summer outfit of lavender shorts with a multi-color lavender top.

Odette looks so solemn, that I tell her to loosen up just a bit.




Before she grabs a piece of cake, Odette snickers, and asks if this is loose enough!

Sounds like her Charismatic trait is kicking in fast, especially making jokes about herself.

"I'm just so happy I broke the bad trait trend Watcher! And I got one of grandpa Samuel's traits, too. A win-win for sure!"




Soon everyone's smiling, laughing, and lining up for cake, with Rory heading up the line.

Though Candice and Chase can't seem to stop blowing party horns.

That's probably because the townie families don't get many birthday parties.

I wish I could give every family in each town some play time, but that doesn't work for a Town Jump game.

But if the Frio family completes it, I'm thinking about playing a rotational game with the spares starting with SV, and continuing with the spares from each town for a few generations.

It's definitely a thought, but pretty far down the road since we're only half-way through the TJ journey.

But, I digress, and we need to get on with this chapter!




Now that she's a teen, Odette starts putting her Virtuoso trait to use and plays guitar for the first time.

With all her xylophone practice and skill books as a toddler, she starts out at level 4.




Upstairs on the roof top deck, Claire listens to Odette play.

"Not bad for her first time, eh Watcher?"

"Not bad at all Claire, with her toddler skill and her Virtuoso trait, she'll be pretty unstoppable."

"Being Charismatic certainly won't hurt either! Much better than my hot-headed trait or Jared's mean-spirited one. Not that Lucinda's ever had a problem with it. In fact, I think it probably helped her a lot in her line of work."

"It has Claire. But between you and me, I'm glad the criminal element has been stopped in this town. They were way too evil to go unchecked."

Raising a brow, Claire asks, "Have you forgotten I was once the 'criminal element' in town?"

Smiling, I reply, "Not at all Claire. I may not be a spring chicken but I'm not that forgetful. Besides, your criminal tendencies ran to the klepto side of the business, not the evil branch. And luckily, Jared's mean-spiritedness never rubbed off on you!"

"Things might have been very different though if Kimberly had chosen heirship and moved here. What would you have done then?"

Smiling wider, I say, "Kimberly would have had no problem rising to the top of the field, I've no doubts about that. But it would have been quite the pickle with Lucinda and Lucas on the police force. Luckily for us things worked out the way they did."

With a wink, Claire adds, "Yes, lucky for us Watcher!"




Meanwhile another ghostly visitor has joined us for Odette's birthday.

Flinging herself into his arms, Odette cries, "Grandpa Samuel! You came back!"

"Of course I did child! I wouldn't have missed your birthday for anything. And just look at you! Pretty as a picture." Laughing he adds, "I think it's my black hair!"

"And I broke the bad trait trend and got your Charismatic trait! I don't know if that will follow through with the other kids, but it's a start."




Laughing harder he says, "It is indeed. And just think, it started off with one of my good traits! Not that it matters whose good trait you got, just saying."

Odette laughs with him and says, "Oh, you're still the same Grandpa, please don't ever change."

"I'm too old for change now my dear, but you've got plenty of change ahead of you. Some you'll like and a lot you won't, growing up and responsibility will do that to you. But enough of that kind of talk! You've just become a teenager, so you've got a lot of fun to look forward to in the next couple of weeks. Make sure you take advantage of this time."

"I will Grandpa Samuel. But boy is Ella going to be sorry she missed your first visit."

"Well, why don't we keep this one just between you and me? Until I can make the rounds and see everyone."

"Okay Grandpa. That's probably for the best."

"Back to bed with you now! You need your rest for school tomorrow. Happy Birthday sweetie."

"It's the best birthday ever now Grandpa!"




With Odette back in bed, Samuel's thoughts turn to Ella and he can't help but smile.

He might not have a physical form now, but he thinks he may still be able to help with that Unicorn hunt!




But there's someone else he needs to pay a visit to, and he drifts to the back deck to join her.

"Hello dear. Sorry my leaving took you all by such surprise. I was rather surprised myself."

"The timing was just off Samuel. With all the new babies arriving in the family, Grim's timing couldn't have been worse."

"I'm not happy about that myself. I peeked in on Merida on my way out here. She's beautiful."




"You know we said that about all of our children, and our previous grandchildren! But I agree, she is beautiful. And so are our namesakes, Lorie and Sammy, along with little Winnie!"

"Marshall and Dahlia named their twins after us?"

Lorelei  stands up in her excitement, saying, "They did. And Sammy takes after you, being both Artistic and Friendly! Lorie has my name but none of my traits, though she's a fairy just like Merida. And Winnie's got Tia's MH skin tone, well, a variation of it anyway."

"So Adam was right. Stop worrying about it, welcome the children no matter what, and the genetics and future will take care of itself."

"Yes, he was right about that, him and Sophie. And so right about taking the pressure off all of us. But he was more than a bit ticked about Grim's timing!"

With that, Samuel frowned and said, "Weren't we all!"




As Lorelei pulls out her wallet to show off all the new arrivals, Samuel eagerly looks at each photo.

All the nooboos look rather alike, but he looks long and hard at the photos of the triplets as children, with the notations of their child traits, mean-spirited, hates the outdoors, and inappropriate!

With a hard swallow he says, "I can see why Odette was so thrilled to get my Charismatic trait. The children of this generation sure have a lot to deal with."




"They do. But Rory's really stepped up and made a point of showing how a little hard work and help from each other can help us overcome them. And the children, especially Eric, have taken his words to heart."

"Eric? Grumpy, Can't Stand Art, Eric?" Samuel asks in surprise.

"Yes. The grumpy boy we love, despite his attitude, has actually worked ever so hard to overcome it and helped Cullen with his hot-headedness too! Thanks to Rory and you."

"Me? I wasn't even here! What did I do?" he says puzzled.

With a smile, Lorelei says, "You were just you! All those years with the children, with Rory and Tia, so friendly and welcoming, understanding. Then continuing with the grandchildren. You've left some very big shoes to fill Samuel Marshall Frio! And though he doesn't really know it, Rory's well on his way to filling them."

With their hearts full of love for their family and for each other, they hold hands, touching one another for the first time since Samuel departed this earthly plane.

It's not quite the same, of course, but it's what they have now, and they're content to just be together again.




Then they chat about their hobbies, with Lorelei eagerly telling him all about some of the new recipes she's been cooking.

"I've made all the family favorites, of course, and stored them in the replicators, but lately I've tried my hand at some of the more difficult recipes, like Lobster Thermidor, and it turned out perfect!"

"No surprise there my dear! You've been a level 10 master chef for quite some time now. Any thoughts of retiring?"




"Not yet. Though I may consider it when we move to the next town. Then I'd have a lot more free time to help with the great-grandchildren! Wow, just saying that makes me feel my age."

Looking deeply into her eyes, Samuel says, "Children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, makes no difference, you're still the most beautiful one of all to me Lorelei. Whether you find comics funny or not!"

And he takes her in his arms and holds her close.

She squeezes him back ever so tightly, sighs, and whispers, "This is what I needed and where I'll always belong, in your arms."




As she asks Samuel to watch the stars, Sam arrives and, seeing Samuel, tries to float away.




But not quickly enough and the inevitable happens.

He hits the deck with a thud!

Samuel chuckles and says, "Some things never change. But now I know why Jared finds that so funny!"

Lorelei can't hide a smile as she adds, "Even without a sense of humor, I can't help but smile at that. Poor Sam! I love him dearly, but my Brave trait just can't understand Cowardly behavior."

Nodding, Samuels says, "Let's hope no one else that has to live with or join the family ghosts inherits that trait! But I have to give it to Sam, he really put one over on Jared that one time. So if he can do it once, he can do it again!"

"There you go again, being so wise and profound! No wonder everyone in the family looks up to you. Next time I see Sam without other ghosts around, I will definitely have to pass that bit of wisdom on to him!"




Odette has become our first generation nine teen and broken the bad trait trend!

Let's hope it continues for the rest of this generations children.

Samuel has made his first appearance as a ghostly member of the family, to both Odette and Lorelei, and hopes to make the rounds of all the rest of them soon.

But now that Odette's a teen, she'll be starting high school.

Hopefully, some of her grade school friends will join her soon, especially Leonard Fields and Chase Marks, as it's time to do some partner searching!

And it's time for Merida's toddler birthday.

Let's see what happens in Chapter 190: Friends and Family
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Bright and early the next morning, all three of the children head off to school.

With both Ella and Eric eyeing Odette with concern, as she does look a bit nervous about her first day of high school.

Ella pats her older sister's hand and says, "It'll be okay Odette. The first day is always a little scary. I'm sure you'll make friends fast, especially with your new trait to help you out."

Eric speaks up saying, "And if anyone bothers you I could always play a fairy trick on them! You just let me know who and I'll get them good!"

With both of her younger siblings buoying her up, Odette relaxes a bit and responds with, "Thanks you guys. It helps to have both of you on my side. I don't think you'll have to play any fairy tricks Eric, but knowing that you'd be willing to does make it easier."

Then she squeezes Odette's hand as the bus turns around and heads toward the school.




With the day off, Cinda's gone over to her partner Tyra's house to check on her and meet the new twins.

"Thanks for stopping by Cinda! I definitely could use some adult company and baby advice."

"I thought Olivier was hiring nannies for you? Or that your butler would help at least?"

"He offered, but I thought I could do it all on my own. But it's really tough with no sleep. The boys are on opposite schedules but with just me doing the bulk of the care, I seem to be up at all hours of the day and night!"

"Well, don't be stu…crazy Tyra! Tell Olivier you need some help. There were four adults in the house when we had Eric and Ella. And we always have a daily maid. No way would I have tried to do it by myself. Especially if I had the money to hire a sitter, a butler, or a nanny. Maybe all three!"

"You're right. I'm being ridiculous. First time mom syndrome I guess! I'll call Olivier during his lunch break and let him know I'm hiring someone to help out with the twins, even if it is just a sitter."




But when they get upstairs to the boys room, they find that both Olivier and Ainsley are attending to the twins.

Guiltily Ainsley says, "Sorry Tyra, but you were downstairs and he was crying…"

Tyra interrupts with, "No apology necessary Ainsley! Cinda's made me realize just how ridiculous I'm being trying to care for the boys by myself. If you can stand it, please feel free to lend a hand. I'd certainly appreciate it."




"Oh Tyra, I think this one has your eyes! But they look alike, which one is this?"

Laughing Tyra says, "Let me check his bracelet, they really do look alike right now, so I kept them on. This one's Jonah, so Jackson's in his crib."

"I love their names. Family ones?"

"My dad was Jonah and my mother's maiden name was Jackson, so I got to use both of them. Olivier was an orphan with no known family, so he loved the idea of using my family names. He's been such a great father Cinda, first to Shirley, and now to the boys. But I worry that he'll not be around to see them grow up."

"That would be unfortunate. He's waited so long for more children after adopting Shirley. I'll see if there's something we can do about that!"

"Do about it? What could you do?"

"Well, I am a fairy and I know a bit of magic, and I do have some pull in town.  I know someone who has a bit more power than I do though, when it comes to things like that."

"Like a fairy godmother?" Tyra asks still puzzled.

"Something like that! I'll do some checking and see if it's possible to tweak his time just a bit."

With a sigh of relief Tyra says, "That would take a load of worry off my mind Cinda. I know Olivier will leave us comfortably off, but I want to raise our sons together."

Feeling badly that she mentioned it without checking we me first, Cinda adds, "I may have spoken too soon Tyra. Don't get your hopes up just yet, but I'll let you know what I find out."




Then their talk turns to work related matters and they chat about some recent arrests that have been made while they've both been on maternity leave.

Tyra's little dog seems most taken with Cinda's fairy self, sensing her nature as only animals can.




Then Tyra chats on excitedly about the new judge at City Hall.

"I hear she's pretty tough! Not letting many Sims slide and meting out justice with a firm hand."

"Well, they've needed someone like that here in RH for some time and a judge like that will certainly help keep things under control. And I like the idea of a female judge! Someone to take us seriously for a change, not like 'little women' who should stay at home!"

"Since we busted open Spinelli's crime ring, they've taken us very seriously Cinda! It was Spinelli who underestimated you and Reeves who underestimated me. But they both got what was coming to them!"

"That they did. You know I haven't checked on Michael and his daughter in awhile. I should stop by and see how they're doing. Michael's up there in age too, and I'd hate for poor Susan to be left on her own again so soon after being reunited with him."




Then they chat excitedly about being on patrol together again.

"I know our rank is a bit above routine patrol, but I wouldn't mind taking a spin around town now and again, like old times!"

"I'm sure the new cadets wouldn't mind that a bit. And at our higher ranks, we could handle anything that comes up, with or without back-up!"

"Though I'm sure both of our husbands, as well as Detective Nest, would have something to say about that!"

Happy to be together again, they both laugh, and the talk turns to motherhood.




Back at the house, Rory starts writing another book, while Lorelei joins him reading one.

They sit companionably together enjoying the quiet with the children in school, Cinda visiting Tyra, and little Merida napping.

Lorelei doesn't make a big deal of it as she says, "You've really stepped up to the plate Rory, with Samuel gone, and I want you to know that we both appreciate it, Samuel and I. You've become an important part of this family as the eldest male and heir spouse. A true son of our hearts. Thank you."

Rory, nonplussed at her words, doesn't say anything for a moment.

Then he responds with, "I've become who I am today due to being part of this family, with the love and encouragement I was given, being welcomed with open arms. I don't think I'll ever come close to being the man Samuel was when he was with us in the flesh, or even now as a ghost. But thanks for saying it, mom."

"Don't underestimate yourself Rory. I think you're very much like Samuel and being a part of this family  has just helped you realize your full potential. Keep up the good work, son."

Rory's cheeks flush at her continued praise, but he nods, and says, "Like I told Ella, I'll do my best."

"That's all anyone can be expected to do Rory. I'll let you get back to your book now."




Then Lorelei runs some errands in Samuel's classic car.

"You're using Samuel's car?" I ask her somewhat surprised. "I wasn't sure you'd want to."

"I didn't really choose it. I'd actually forgotten it was in my inventory, and then decided to give it a try. It's rather fun! I can see why Samuel enjoyed tooling around in it. I'm going to enjoy the look on my co-workers faces when I show up in this sweet baby!"

"Samuel felt the same way. And I love seeing how happy you both are driving it. Have fun!"




After Merida wakes from her nap, Rory gets her changed and fed, then spends some time playing with her.

"Who's daddy's girl?! You are! You are! Such pretty sparkles Merida. Wait until they turn into pretty pink wings, just like mommy's and Eric's. The three of you will have such fun fairy parties and Odette and I will love dancing outside!"

Even though Merida only coos in response, Rory's heart feels a touch warmer than it did yesterday.

Between Lorelei's words and the love and support of his children, the healing process has begun.




After school, Odette works on her homework until the grade school kids start leaving the building.

First, her cousin Darren walks by with a quick wave as he heads to his bus.




Then Leonard Fields comes out and says, "Had your teen birthday I see Odette. Candace couldn’t stop talking about it. Too bad I had Scouts. But mine's coming up soon. I can't wait to learn to drive. See you around."

Glancing up from her homework, Odette says, "See you around Leonard. Maybe we'll be in some classes together."




Then Chase Marks comes out and, a bit nervously now that she's a teen, says  "Hey Odette, great birthday party last night." Then with a burst of inspiration, "Our dog's having puppies soon. Want to come to my house and see if they've arrived yet?"

"Puppies!? I'd love to see them Chase. Let me finish this up and I'll come right over."

Trying to hide his sigh of relief, he says, "Great! See you soon."




When Odette rings the bell, she can hear lots of barking, and footsteps coming quickly to the door.

Chase opens it wide but quickly turns and says, "Hurry inside, I'm not supposed to let her get out so close to having her puppies."




Safely inside, he shrugs and says, "They haven't arrived yet, but my parents say any time now."

With the sound of barking all around her, Odette asks, "Are all of these dogs yours?"

Chase answers, "Yup, all four of them. Of course, the girls have puppies and we sell them when they're old enough, or we'd have a house full. Me and my dad wouldn't mind that, but mom says four is the limit!"

"My grandpa Sam had a cat years ago, and I've seen photos of my Glamma Karly's bird, and my grandpa Samuel grew up with a lot of pets, a cat, a dog, and a horse. But we've never had a pet at our house. They sound fun."

"They can be fun, but they're a lot of work too. Mom says if we want the dogs, me and my dad have to make sure they're well taken care of, so I've been filling pet bowls since I was little. But a horse sounds really cool!"

"My Grandpa Samuel told us it was fun getting to ride his, but we move a lot, so having a pet would be hard. But my sister Ella wants a Unicorn anyway. She's fascinated by Supernaturals!"

"A unicorn? I thought they were only in fairy tales."

"Well, my mom and brother are fairies with bright pink wings, and my baby sister has pink sparkles which will turn into wings at her toddler birthday, so we know they exist. Why not unicorns?"

"Good point. I've seen your brothers wings and they're cool. I'd love to be able to fly!"

"I'll see if I can get some fairy dust for you or have my mom cast the spell of flight on you. It doesn't last long and you can't go very high, but it's still pretty cool."

His eyes shining at the idea of flying, Chase says, "That sounds awesome. But since we can't try it now, wanna pillow fight?"




Odette agrees and soon the feathers are flying as they both smack each other silly.

But after a few rounds they're both gasping for breathe so Odette suggests a new game.




"My dad and my Aunt Tia both come from Midnight Hollow, and they have some of the creepiest stories there. Wanna hear one?"

Chase, his eyes wide, settles on the floor in front of her and says, "You bet! I love ghost stories."

So they dim the lights and Odette turns on the flashlight Chase found and she begins, "It was a dark and stormy night…even darker than usual for Midnight Hollow…and the sounds from the nearby cemetery were growing louder and louder! Clinking of chains, swishing of ratty clothes, and the moaning of ghosts…drawing ever closer!"




About halfway through the story, one of Chase's family members joins them, and Chase whispers, "She's really good at this! I can feel the chills as the ghosts get closer!"

"I felt them outside the door!" Then addressing Odette, "Sorry for the interruption, please continue."

With a mysterious smile, and a low moan, Odette replies, "I feel the presence of another soul. Come closer, closer…."




While back at the house it's time for Merida's birthday!

Rory brings her to the cake and stands oh so solemnly holding his youngest daughter.

"Time for you to get your wings sweetheart," he whispers.




While Cinda and Lorelei both twirl noise makers and yell birthday wishes, he bends down and blows out her candle.




Then he carefully places her on the floor and the birthday sparkles begin.




Where once there was a pink sparkling burrito, we now have a cute toddler.

One with her father's dark hair, or Samuel's if you ask him, and her mother's bright pink wings!




A quick trip into stylist and we get a close-up.




Then Gramlei takes over getting in the first toddler cuddles.




And being the resident chef, the first one to feed her in her highchair.

Looks like little Merida likes Gramlei's baby food.

She's licking her fingers with gusto!




Odette survived her first day of high school and is continuing to build up a friendship with Chase Marks.

The time honored traditions of pillow fights and ghost stories are still working their magic!

And little Merida is now a toddler, so you all know what that means.

Another round of teen and toddler birthdays for the Frio family and their followers!

Let's see if Odette's truly broken the bad trait trend or if she just got lucky.

Join me in Chapter 191: Four Teen Birthdays
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

I get a notice that Odette's skipped school on a field trip day!

I check it out and she's standing on the sidewalk on one side of the high school along with Lukas Cassat.

She's not on the bus but it says she's on a field trip. Okay.

But her performance is dropping---it's only a guess but maybe it's because she's standing on the sidewalk!?!




I try sending her to school, but it looks like another group of toddlers aged up and the doors are jammed again with both children and teens.

I recognize Susan Spinelli Dandy in the pink top, and that's Michael Frio, the oldest of Marshall and Dahlia's triplets, standing behind her. (I confess I did have to go and look at other photos to determine if it was Michael or his cousin Darren! With two turquoise-haired boys in the family that are currently the same age, I wasn't sure!)

But who's at the top of the steps with a huge, happy, grin?

"David, you aged up already! You certainly look happy to be a teen."




"Oh not just a teen Watcher, I'm an Irresistible teen! One with a girlfriend already. Since the schools jammed, she's working on homework for extra credit. Her name's Norma Picard.

"Picard? Like Captain Jean-Luc Picard?!"

With a laugh he answers, "Her father is Gerald Picard. You must be a Trekkie like him, he named her brother Jean-Luc! But she's named after her mother's namesake, Marilyn Monroe. Her sister's name is Jean."

"Ah, Norma with a sister named Jean, and a brother named Jean-Luc, got it! I love naming themes. You two going to keep that going?"

 "Watcher! We just aged to teen and started dating, children are not anywhere in the picture yet! Especially since I'm the oldest brother of triplets and twins. I'm not planning on kids for a long, long, time! But I could use a favor. She's burning up in that blue sweater she's wearing. Care to help us out with that?"

"My pleasure David. I love teen make-overs! I'll tweak your wardrobe a bit while I'm at it."




David loves Irish Green, something he gets from both his parents, so we stick with his favorite color for the most part.

He's a couch potato like his Gramlei, so we'll show off his athletic outfit since you'll probably never see it!




And then I work with Norma.

Her favorite color is white and I love her distinctive look, definitely interesting genetics there!




Once I'm finished in stylist with both of them, we chat a bit more.

"How's that? Better?"

"Much Watcher! My clothes were okay but this darker green is much better. And Norma looks amazing in her new black and white outfit!"

"Cooler at least! I wish age up clothes paid attention to the seasons!"




After school David comes home with Odette and they work on homework out on the lawn in the sunshine.

Roger Schmidt still looks over the Frio family from time to time as a favor to Cinda.

With all the criminals she's helped put behind bars, you never know when someone might want revenge.




Then the twins arrive home with cousin Nathan in tow!

Though, with his black hair, he looks more like their sibling than he does his own birth mates, since both Michael and Mahlia have inherited Lorelei's turquoise hair.

Ella's feeling hungry since she didn't much care for today's school lunch.

While Eric and Nathan seem more focused on their older cousins.




Gramlei was busy teaching Merida how to talk, and I couldn't resist this cute photo of them together.

Though she's smiling, Merida's had enough lessons for today as she says, "Stop, Gram'ie, stop. Wanna play now."

And hearing the grade school bus, Lorelei agrees with her, "Yes, sweetie, it's time to stop your lessons. You can play in the fairy house while I make phone calls for tonight's multiple birthday bash!"




Instead of trying to coordinate her schedule with the twins' families, she'd decided to just have one big event for all four of them.

Soon the guests start arriving, some with plates of food, others with happy birthday wishes.

The party guest list included mostly children and teens, which is fitting since the birthday honorees are children aging up to teen.

There's Norma Picard, David's girlfriend, standing between Leonard Fields and Darren Frio, with Lauren Shear carrying something yummy for the crowd to eat.

And here comes Darren's twin, Cullen, sprinting into the house!

I'm glad both of the birthday boys made it, otherwise I would have had to change the title of the chapter!




As the oldest, Darren's chosen as the first one to blow out his candles.

The crowds not very big yet, but with four children aging up, not a moment to spare.

And since Darren's a loner, he prefers a smaller group anyway.

His twin, Cullen, as well as Norma, Eric and Ella, clap, cheer, and twirl noise makers.




And with a twirl and sparkles, Darren becomes a teenager!

Oh dear, our Loner, Genius, who got Mooch as a child, gets Clumsy for his teen trait.

With a half-hearted grin, he says, "As long as I don't fall into the cake and catch fire, it's all good!"

I hate to tell him, but I think his new hairstyle would have looked better with frosting on it or on fire.




Since neither of those choices is something we'd want, I pop him into stylist for a quick hair style change.

And a new pair of jeans in a darker color.

"Alright! Now that you're done it's cake time!" he says excitedly.

That Mooch trait of his really focuses on free food, even if it is cake.




As Darren eats his cake, Cullen steps up to cake #2, and thoughtfully makes his wish.

The crowd's still small, but Norma and Ella blow party horns as loud as they can, while Eric yells birthday wishes.




And Cullen breathes a sigh of relief as he adds Loves the Heat, to his Brave, Disciplined, and Hot-Headed traits!

"I can deal with some heat Watcher, kind of goes along with hot-headed but in a better way. At least it wasn't something completely awful, like these clothes."

I agree, so it's off to stylist with him.




Cullen's favorite color is aqua, so his clothes match his twins' hair, but I think it looks good on him.

I was a bad Watcher and didn't check Darren's favorite color first, but he didn't seem to mind.




But we still have two more birthdays to celebrate so on with the show!

Eric goes next and eagerly hops on a stool to reach his cake on the counter.

But his grumpy trait takes over when he says, "With my back to everyone Watcher? Couldn't you have planned that a little better?"

"I could have just let you age naturally, six days from now, while your twin and cousins moved on to high school."

"Point taken. I'll just turn around after I blow out my candles."

"Good choice."




But once the sparkles disappear, I'm thinking I would have preferred him facing the other way.

And by the look on Rory's face, he feels the same.

"Son? Son, are you okay? Can you see?"




"Not very well Dad! Who dimmed the lights! Hey, did someone steal them?! That's my job!"

Yup. Eric's now a Grumpy, Eccentric, Can't Stand Art, Kleptomaniac!




In keeping with his new trait, I'm definitely 'stealing' that hair and those clothes!

A dark heavy blazer for summer!?!

I'm thinking that whoever programmed the age up clothes either has the Insane trait or maybe an odd sense of humor.

But it's getting late, so I want to get Ella to her cake before all the guests start leaving, so his make-over will have to wait a bit.

Our last birthday honoree steps up to her cake, and looks adorable doing so.

Though me and Cinda are the only ones looking at her as everyone else is still focused on Eric's cake.

"Attention family and guests, we have now moved on to our final birthday child. Please focus on her."




The crowd actually listens and does an about face!

Cheering Ella on as she closes her eyes, twirls and sparkles.

Catch the turquoise-haired trio on the left, Darren, Michael, and Mahlia!

They all inherited aqua locks from their Gramlei, Lorelei, so Dashing Desmond's legacy lives on in multiple spares.

It's odd how even with Cinda having it, none of the heir children do. Not a problem, not focusing on genetics, but just saying.

Apparently with Samuel and Rory both having dark hair, it trumps Cinda and Lorelei's turquoise?

Probably not, just not very lucky with the odds, which is typical!

But I bet getter on with the story as Ella's almost asleep on her feet.




She ages up in a very severe hairstyle that even her Gramlei wouldn't consider flattering.

And also gets a heavy blazer in the dead of summer, just like Eric.

Though the overall outfit and color's not half-bad, it's definitely make-over time.




We pop into stylist and when we come back out, Rory goes from yelling birthday cheers to this!

He's definitely my most expressive Sim, probably due to his Over-Emotional trait.

"What seems to be the problem Rory? You have another beautiful teenage daughter."

As his eyes bug out even more, he says, "That's EXACTLY the problem! I have another beautiful teenage daughter. I want my little girls back!"

"Sorry Rory, it just doesn't work that way. You and Cinda have amazingly compatible genes and have produced gorgeous daughters."




Ella says, "Dad, it's still me. I'll always be your little girl."

But seeing her post make-over, I have to agree with Rory, she no longer looks like a little girl!

And everything about her screams Cinda, except Rory's dark hair, which gives her that same dramatic flair that her sister Odette has.




And Eric hasn't missed out on the good-looking genes either.

With the hair out of his face and some decent clothes, he cleans up nicely!

But I only allow him his favorite color for his Prom outfit as I'm not fond of violet on guys, especially one who already has vibrant pink, sparkly wings!

So he gets a more traditional male color, blue.

"As long as I get some cake Watcher! I've been waiting for ages for a piece!"

"I'm surprised you didn't swipe one when no one was looking, Eric!"

"No need to swipe things when they're in your own home. You should know that by now Watcher with all the kleptos in our family. Past and present, included," he adds smugly.

"What's that supposed to mean? No one has gotten klepto in a long time."

Laughing he says, "You were so caught up in Ella's make-over and dad's bug-eyed look you missed it Watcher! Ella's a klepto, just like me! Finally a trait we share."

"I guess it could have been worse. You both could have gotten evil or she could have gotten grumpy."

Thoughtfully he says, "I wouldn't count your chickens just yet Watcher, we could still get either of those traits at our next birthdays!"




Well, I've been warned! Still YA birthdays to get bad traits at. Thanks, grumpy boy!

But overall, I think the teen traits have been pretty decent so far.

Odette got Charismatic, David got Irresistible, Darren got Clumsy, Cullen got Loves the Heat, and Eric and Ella both got Kleptomaniac.

At least they're not traits that cause too much family drama.

Or they haven't so far anyway. But they've only just aged up so I guess we'll see in the weeks to come.

Join me in Chapter 192: A Town Full of Children
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

As Cinda progresses in her law enforcement career, she gets called in to work at all hours.

Especially the middle of the night.

And having the Motive Mobiles, it wouldn't be a big deal keeping up her needs.

Except for the fact that the precinct is just kitty-corner to the Frio home lot, so she flies over!

But with these extra work hours, she's actually earned a couple of promotions pretty quickly and is now at level 8 in her career.




But one thing she can't do as an officer of the law is fix the school crowding issue.

More and more toddlers have aged up so I've got to assign some of them to different schools, just so they can get through the doors every morning!

I start randomly assigning them, then decide it's taking much too long doing it individually, so I head to city hall and start assigning them in groups, keeping children and teens who are close in age together.

The grade school children have limited options, but I have a little more leeway with the teens, with higher education available at both restaurants in town, the business tower, the science building, the theater, and the military base, as well as home-schooling, via NRaas.

I avoid sending anyone to boarding school as I don't want them to glitch and never return!

Strangely enough, most of the children actually have decent outfits.

But I cringe when I see poor Tad Nest in the girls' shoes!

Hopefully he fairs better when he ages to teen.




With everyone in their appropriate place of schooling, I turn my attention back to the house.

And we focus on some potty training for Merida.

Well, Lorelei does anyway. I just take photos.

"Thanks Watcher! You know a dirty potty chair always puts everyone in a bad mood. Couldn't you help out with that now and again?"

"I don't usually have to Lorelei, between the family and the maids, it's usually taken care of. And it's not like dirty plates or leftover meals, where I can drag them to where they belong. I have to direct someone to empty the potty chair. Believe me, it's just as inconvenient for me as it is you."

Wrinkling her nose, she says, "Not quite. You don't have to smell it or live with the bad moodlet!"

"True. But I do my best with 7 of you in the house and only one toddler using the potty. Imagine living across the street with triplets and twins and me not there to help."

Lorelei makes a face and says, "Now I'm getting David's attitude. That many dirty potty chairs with all the crying toddlers would put even the friendliest Sim in a bad mood. I'm glad you talked with him Watcher. And that he got a good teen trait. He deserves it, the poor boy!"

"Well, with a pretty girlfriend like Norma Picard, I don't think he's feeling particularly poor now."

With a laugh in her voice, Lorelei adds, "No, he's feeling Irresistible!"




After school, Eric gets invited over to his cousin Darren's house and he heads straight for the pool.

"This is the life Watcher! Sunshine and pool time!"

"You have both of those at home Eric, it's just around the corner!"

"But it's nicer at someone else's house."

"Why?"

"Reasons. I'll let you know later on."

I'm not sure why but his comment makes me nervous.




I wonder why Darren hasn't joined Eric in the pool and find him inside taking care of his baby sister.

"Aww, that's so sweet of you Darren. Playing big brother to Winnie."

"She's a good baby Watcher, Friendly, always smiling and she's a sound sleeper too. Plus it gives mom and dad a break after working all day."

"Well, they'll need even more help with her after her birthday, especially since I can't be here, so I hope you'll keep helping out."

"I will Watcher. But now that I'm Clumsy, I have to be even more careful with her."

"I've never had a Sim drop a baby Darren, so I think she's pretty safe with you."

"That's good to know Watcher. I was a bit worried about that."




After his swim, Eric asks Darren if he's found out anything else about tracking down a unicorn for Ella.

"Everything I've read says that you can find them around fishing holes between 8 pm and 5 am. And that wherever they are you should see a special aurora above them, a bright shining beacon that will lead you straight to them. So you're helping Ella with the project too?"




"Well, Grandpa Samuel promised her he'd help and with him gone now, Dad and I have decided to help her out."

"What about your mom? Doesn't she want to help?"




"Well, she would, but she's just like your dad and hates the outdoors."

"Oh, right. That wouldn't be a help. But Eric, most of the research I've done is about the myth of unicorns. None of my information is based on fact. I hate to get Ella's hopes up but they probably don't exist!"




"Really Darren!?! I am standing before you with bright pink wings, born of the fae, along with my mother and baby sister. And our Uncle Marshall and his daughter Lorie, have wings too. Along with our ancestors, all the way back to Mémé Sophie, and you don't think Unicorns could exist!?!"

"Ella gave me that same argument when we were kids! But occults like vampires, werewolves, witches, genies, ghosts, mermaids, and fairies, aren't quite the same as unicorns. I've seen fairies, having you all in the family. And we've had vampires, mermaids, and ghosts in the family line too. And we all have extended life due to a genie wish. But those are concrete things Eric. Things you can see and experience. None of us has ever seen a Unicorn. I just hate to disappoint Ella if we can't find one. Or waste everyone's time looking for something in vain!"

Grudgingly Eric says, "Those are good points too and I don't want Ella to be disappointed either. But imagine how much more disappointed she would be if her family just baled on her?!?"

Sighing, Darren gives in, saying, "I promised her I would help with research and I'll keep that promise. And I'll keep my doubts to myself. But we really need a birds-eye view of the sky to see the aurora."




"That's where the Watcher comes in! She promised Ella that she'd help out too, in exchange for a muffin of all things," he adds with an eye roll.

"I think the Watcher was just being nice Eric, not gullible. Right Watcher?"

"Thanks for sticking up for me Darren! And you are quite right. I was trying to be nice. And I can help by searching the sky each night over the whole town, focusing on the fishing holes, of course. But I've been doing that for awhile now and I haven't seen a thing. Not even by the fishing hole inland away from town. And I've looked from dark,




Until dawn. With no luck. I even started wondering if Roaring Heights is just too busy for a Unicorn to live in, but I did a search and found out that one IS supposed to exist in every town in Sim Land. And according to the population records, specifically animal control, there is one listed for Roaring Heights!"




Eric pumps his fist in the air, and yells, "YES!"

But Darren, the ever practical one says, "So now it's just a matter of timing."

"Timing?" Eric asks puzzled.

Darren patiently explains, "Yes, timing. Being in the right place at exactly the right moment, and before you leave town in about two weeks!"

Eric's jubilant attitude falls fast as he says, "Oh, right. We leave town soon after Odette's YA birthday. That doesn't give us much time at all does it Watcher?"

"No Eric, it really doesn't. Especially with all the teen things in the mix. Learning how to drive, slumber parties, prom, a partner for the heir. It's a busy time for all of us."




I leave the boys pondering our time dilemma and check on Rory, who's gone to a party.

I know, I know. Not the typical thing for a loner to do, but he couldn't refuse the invitation when there was a personal note inside from an old friend of Samuel's.

So I find him at the Simovitch House in earnest conversation with Henry.

"Thanks so much for coming Rory. I just wanted to pass on my thanks to Samuel's family for all he's done for me. After having baby Stefanie, Bonnie moved back in with all of the children to work on our marriage. I'm a happy man once again, having her and the children with me."

"Samuel will be happy for you Mr. Simovitch. I'll be sure and pass on the news."

"Pass on the news? Um, but he's no longer with us. I mean, I saw the write-up in his paper, a nice memorial to him."

"Oh, yes. But we keep the urns of our family members with us and they visit from time to time. So I'm sure he'll show up soon."




And Rory's right on target with that information as when I check back at the main house, I find Ella chatting away with him!

"Grandpa Samuel! Oh, I'm so happy to see you."

"I'm happy to be here Ella. Happy Birthday even if I'm a little late. Your party was so nice I didn't want to ruin it with a ghostly visit."

"You couldn't ever ruin anything Grandpa, ghostly visit included!"




"Ella, I'm still trying to help you out with the Unicorn Watch, but they're as scare as diamonds!"

"That's okay Grandpa. Dad, Rory, Darren and the Watcher are still working on it. What I really need help with is learning to drive, but mom, dad, and Gramlei have all promised to help me with that."

"Well, I could help with that too!"

"Really Grandpa? You can do that? As a ghost?" Ella asks surprised.

"Really Samuel? Ghosts can teach teens to drive?! That's a new one for me too!" I add shocked.

"Well, I see I have to show both you doubting Thomas' just what a determined ghost is capable of! Come with me!"




He heads off outside with Ella eagerly in the lead and me tagging along.

"I have got to see this Samuel! All the years I've played Sims and I never knew this was possible!"




They walk to the curb, and to my delight and amazement, pop into a motive mobile!

I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes.

But something you never, ever, ever, want to see?

The inside of a motive mobile with merged Sims! (I saw this is another story and just remembered to check it out. Please don't try this at home!)

Ghostly Samuel merged with Ella is the stuff of nightmares!




But as long as I wasn't viewing them from inside the motive mobile, things went along just as if Samuel was alive.

With Ella driving about 2 miles an hour at first, jerking to a stop, typical first driving lesson.

Here they are on the side of the lot after a few minutes.

It probably wasn't the best idea for her first driving lesson to be after dark.

But it's the time Samuel's got, so it is what it is.




And I get back to Eric just in time to see him creeping up on Winnie's new toy oven.

"Eric you are too old to play with that now! What are you up to you?"




"Nothing much, just trying out my new trait!"

And with those words, he snatches Winnie's toy oven right out of the corner!

"This is what you meant by enjoying other people's houses more isn't it?" I ask with a frown.

"You're catching on faster Watcher."

"You are planning on returning that aren't you?" I ask pointedly.

"Possibly.  When Winnie's a child and can use it!"

"Your parents may have something to say about it when your Uncle Lucas tells them it went missing after your visit."

"Uncle Lucas is a good guy. He wouldn't rat me out," he replies smugly.

"Your Uncle Lucas is a Forensic Scientist on the police force with your mother. They specialize in crime Eric!"




The next afternoon, Eric pays no mind to my admonishment and even boasts of his crime to, of all people, his mother!

Surprising no one, this does not go well.

A Grumpy, Klepto boasting of stealing from family, to his mother, a Good, but Mean-Spirited, police officer!

There is no scenario or alternate universe where this could ever turn out well.

"Eric, really! I know it's a new trait, and overcoming something so new it's easy, but from family? And something you can't even use! And then boasting about it to me, as a police officer! You can't seriously expect me to find anything good about this!"

Cinda's lecture goes on and on and I almost start feeling sorry for Eric.

Almost.

After all, I did warn him.




But Eric works off the frustration of his mother's lecture by jamming with Odette.

Now that she can actually work on her Virtuoso trait, she's been checking out every instrument in the house.

And gaining skill levels quite quickly.




Not realizing Eric's in the doghouse with Cinda, Lorelei agrees to a driving lesson and even brings Merida along.

"Wow Gramlei, you're letting me learn to drive in Grandpa's classy ride? And you're bringing Merida? Is that safe?"

"Yes, and yes. And it better be young man. It better be. You take it nice and slow and remember your Gramlei and baby sister are in the car!"

"Yes ma'am," he replies in the meekest tone I've heard him use lately.

I guess Lorelei's one of the few people who's earned his respect.




When they returned home, Lorelei rushed Merida straight to the potty.

"Just between you and me sweetie, your brother drives like an old man! I didn't think we'd make it home before you had an accident and wet all over both of us! I guess telling him to go nice and slow was  a mistake. He sure took it to heart. But he's gained a skill point and we're safely home, so it all worked out. And look at you! You can go potty now all by yourself!"

"I a big girl, Gram'ie! A big girl!"

"That you are sweetie, that you are!"




With potty training accomplished, Merida happily played with her IF doll, the only one still existing in the Frio household.

Odette's mysteriously returned to her inventory and then demanded to be let out, only to freeze in the hand and disappear again when I let go!

I hope Merida is lucky enough to keep hers through at least her toddlerhood.

Eric and Ella's dolls kept making them pop out of their cribs right after they received them as infants and disappeared soon after that.

One thing I have learned, as much as I love the IF dolls, they are glitchy and unpredictable!

So use at your own risk! (Especially in a story line)




The town is full of children and teens, but the ages and genders aren't really matching up with my heir family.

SP continues to have family members visit after school, instead of other townie children.

And Eric went to a friend's house after school, but that was family as well.

He did get the chance to discuss the Unicorn Watch with Darren though, as well as try out his new trait!

Though boasting about stealing something to a police officer, especially his mother, turned out to be a mistake.

And the teens are all focus on learning teen skills, like driving and playing different instruments.

But Odette's focus is on Chase, developing their friendship, and waiting for him to become a teen.

Let's see how that turns out in Chapter 193: An Unexpected Notice
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

After school the next day, Odette asks Rory to give her a driving lesson, but just as he agrees, I get the notice that the teens should start getting ready for Prom!

WHAT!!!???!!!

How on earth did I miss the prom announcement?!?

Prom is the big event of the teen years and the one I hope solidifies teen relationships if they aren't already going steady!

And none of mine even have dates!

I check Odette's relationship panel and wonder of wonders, Chase has finally become a teen!

I have her invite him over, but he doesn't show up and time is running out.

In a panic she says, "Dad, dad! Help me! I'm going to ruin the whole journey!"

Rory shrugs and yells, "Watcher! Do something!"




We don't have much time so I have Odette quickly change into her prom dress and call Chase and invite him to the school.

Then Odette rushes off to meet him.

But when she gets there and there's no Chase, I see her make this awful face.

"What is it? What happened?" I ask, not sure I want to know.

"He just texted that something can up and he can't make it! Now what?!"




Taking a calming breathe I answer, "You're just going to have to go to prom without a date and hope for the best. Eric and Ella will be here soon, so you won't be totally alone."

Trying to dry her tears, Odette says, "Watcher, what if…what if…"

"We'll think of something Odette! You just go to prom and try to have a good time. Look, Ella's already here waiting for you. And there's Leonard Fields and Antonia Battista. She looks pretty in her lavender dress."

Odette quickly runs over to join them and I add, "Since I assigned so many of the teens to different schools, it probably won't be a big crowd. But you kids have fun!"




Boy was I wrong!

Apparently it doesn't matter where you attend high school, prom is only held at the main school in town!

And teens start showing up in droves, with Eric at the left of the steps, and Darren and Cullen close behind him!

But not in formalwear, so I quickly help a few of them don the appropriate clothing.




I've already helped out a few previously but for some of the townie kids I'm almost afraid to see what their formal outfits are.

But to my surprise, Lauren Shear is already wearing a black and white formal, and looks beautiful!

But who's that across the road? Could it be…?




YES!!! It's Chase Marks!!! Maybe this prom won't be a complete disaster after all!!!

Oh, it was probably prom that was the 'something' that came up!

I quickly go across the road and pop him into stylist.

He cleans up quite nicely and even poses for a photo!




Eric reaches the entrance looking quite dapper with his violet button down shirt and black tux!

And both Cullen and Darren look amazing in their suits too.

The thoughts of the crowd are rather mixed though.

Eric: ***I thought I was through with school and homework since it's Friday, but no, I have to dress up in this monkey suit and go back! At least the Watcher let me wear my favorite color for once!***

Boy in red jacket: ***I hope they have some good snacks, I'm starving!***

Boy behind the thought bubbles: ***Wait until I spike the punch, then the fun will start!***




But it's Darren's thoughts that intrigue me the most: ***I know it was Eric! How rude! To steal Winnie's toy oven! And him being my BFF. I'm going to have to have a few words with him later!***

Being a Genius, it didn't take Darren long to figure out who was responsible!

I guess Eric's going to have to deal with the fallout from his actions with Darren, as well as his mother.

And I couldn't resist doing at least one female teen make-over.

That's Adianaz Battista looking amazing in the short red dress!

Too bad she's so much older than Eric and already has a partner.




Finally, the steps are free of teens attending prom, and Roger Schmidt stands there all alone, ready to take photos of the teens as they leave in a few hours.

It only took an hour and half for them all to get inside, and with that crowd I felt that was pretty good.

As for how prom turned out?

Well, it started off okay with Odette being voted Prom Queen and Eric, Prom King, though he did thank everyone for rigging the votes!

But it started going downhill from there:

Odette got rejected for a dance, and saw someone wearing the same dress, then she looked at someone's date and that started a fight!

Eric must have drank the punch after it was spiked because he kept seeing a three-eyed llama!

Ella was so dazzled by the lights she thought maybe aliens were coming for her, and fell on her face!




But in the end, Chase saved the day!

After seeing a  boy reject Odette for a dance, he couldn't bear the crushed look on her face and asked her to dance himself.

While they were dancing Odette's feelings for him grew beyond friendship and they became romantic interests with a full relationship bar!

So when they came out, Odette was glowing, chatting away with him, not wanting the evening to end.

She asked him his sign while others with dates flirted and kissed!




He told her he was a Gemini with a shy smile and an encouraging look.

So, she asked if he'd met anyone special at prom tonight, a night known for love and romance.

With a nod he replies, "I think so, but I'm kind of new at all this."




Chase moves a bit closer, his hand reaching for hers, when her cousin David interrupts with, "Have you guys seen Norma?"

But lost in each other, they don't reply.

Torn between helping David or playing match maker with my heir, I finally break down and say, "I'll help you find her David. I think Odette is otherwise occupied."

"Thanks Watcher! I wanted to say goodnight to her but we got separated in the crowd."




I look around and find Norma working on homework.

A very dedicated girl, Norma, much like the TV show Captain!

But my eyes are focused on Odette and Chase behind her, sitting close together on the ground, with their hands touching!

Looks like they did fine without me hovering over them!




They watch the stars for a bit, enjoying the star-filled sky and each other's company.




Then, impatient Watcher that I am, I encourage Odette to go for their first kiss.




But Chase apparently doesn't like public displays of affection and rejects her!

Odette's look is one I won't quickly forget.

Disappointment clouds her face but before I can apologize for my inopportune suggestion, Odette takes matters into her own hands.




She quickly apologizes to Chase, begging his forgiveness for her forwardness.

"I'm so sorry Chase. I keep forgetting you've only been a teen for one day! With the excitement of prom and all, I got ahead of myself. Too much, too soon. Please forgive me?"




To my relief, Chase accepts her apology and their relationship is back on track.

And Chase explains that it's not her, it's him, saying, "Sorry Odette. You're right, I'm just barely used to my teen self. Maybe a hug first?"

Odette smiles and says, "Sure. I'd love a hug. We'll take it slow."

She closes her eyes and squeezes Chase tight, and though she hasn't said a word to me, I can feel her censure loud and clear.




They chat, flirt and hold hands, all without my interference.

She's totally focused on Chase and has tuned me out completely.

I don't blame her, considering what happened, and how I almost ruined her prom night.

Again.

But I know I'm going to be in the dog house for sure once we have a moment alone!




Then, as the last curfew bell sounds from city hall, Chase softly places his lips against hers.




When they part he whispers, "You were right, prom night was the perfect moment for our first kiss! Goodnight, Odette. I'll call you soon."

Reeling in shock at the new feelings his kiss has kindled, Odette finally remembers to say, "Goodnight Chase. I'll never forget this night."




Still floating on cloud nine, Odette chats excitedly with her mother.

"It happened Mom! My first kiss! I feel, I feel…wonderful! I haven't ruined our journey after all."

Cinda smiles at her daughter's first taste of teen love and says, "I'm so happy for you sweetie. But even if prom hadn't brought you and Chase together, it wouldn't have ruined our journey. Maybe prolonged it a little, that's all."

"But, I thought that by prom the heir couple had been determined?"

"That's not written in stone. Your grandma Rae went to her prom with Sam and they went steady, but it wasn't until they were young adults that she asked him to move with her. She wasn't sure he'd want to leave his parents in SV, but he loved her so much he couldn't bear to have her leave him behind. Or worse, have her choose someone else as her partner!"




"So it's okay that Chase and I are just starting a relationship now?"

"It's very okay! Don't rush it Odette. I tried that with several prospective teen partners and ended up losing their friendship. So take your time and be friends, develop that and if it's meant to be, it will happen."

Shocked, Odette says, "You liked other boys besides dad!?! I thought you two were like, together forever, from the first moment."

Smiling wryly Cinda explains, "I'm Mean-Spirited and your father's Absent-Minded, we made it work, eventually, but I really wasn't sure as a teen before prom. Your father asked me to go steady then, but you have to remember that your dad is older than me, I had to catch up with him in age. Not like you and Chase, where you've been a teen for five days and he's just aged up."

"I wish we would have had this conversation before prom, Mom! I almost ruined everything by trying to kiss him too soon. But he warmed to the idea pretty fast and kissed me goodnight."

After everything I've put her through, I'm not letting Odette take the blame, so I say, "That wasn't you at all Odette, that one was on me. Sometimes I get a bit overzealous and it doesn't go so well. I'm really sorry for that, but I have to hand it to you, you turned it around and saved the day."

"It's okay Watcher, no hard feelings. And it wasn't me who saved the day, it was Chase who turned my prom disaster into a night to remember!" Turing back to her mother she adds, "I'd like to thank him for
that mom with something special. Could I have some fairy dust for him?"




"Sure sweetie. I always have fairy dust on hand. And I can't wait to meet your young man. I'll try to curb my mean-spirited nature and not show him any embarrassing baby pictures of you!"

As he strolls by, Eric adds, "Don't expect me to make that promise big sister! It's a younger siblings responsibility to be annoying, and I have no problem living up to my full potential!"




Ignoring Eric's comment, Odette tells her mother all about the music at the prom and how she hopes to be as good, or even better, than the band they had.

"The guitar player was awesome, but the bassist was off a few times, and the drummer was a bit loud. The pianist was good too. It made me want to learn them all!"

"Well, remember that your Glamma Carly was an heir and she's already completed the One Sim Band LTW, and both your grandma Rae, as an heir, and Lita Lucy, as an heir spouse, completed the Hit Movie Composer LTW, so you'll have to chose another one if you focus on music. Hopefully, with your traits, you'll get some different LTW's to choose from and you can pick the one that most appeals to you. Your Uncle Marshall and I didn't really have much of a choice."

"Why not mom?"

"Well, as fairies, we got Magic Make-Over and Greener Gardens by default, so we only got three to choose from, besides those two. Your Uncle Marshall chose Magic Make-Over as not much else appealed to him. Lucky for me, the International Super Spy LTW had only been done by an heir spouse and a spare previously."

"But I could still choose Rock Star or Golden Tongue, Golden Fingers right?"

"You could, grandpa Sam completed GT, GF, but he was an heir spouse and Rock Star hasn't been done by anyone in the family yet. But they have to show up in the five you get at your YA birthday, you can't just choose them."

"Right. We have to stay within the parameters of the TJ challenge rules. Well, I'll just keep working on my music and charisma and who knows, maybe I'll get another trait at YA that will give me another option. No sense worrying about it if I can't change it, is there?"

"Now that's the spirit an heir should have! Do your best, focus on the positive, live in the now and let the future take care of itself! Good girl!"




So even though Prom caught me unaware, and I made a serious blunder, it all turned out okay.

Odette's back on track with Chase, and doesn't harbor any ill will towards me, though she has ample reasons to.

I'm grateful for her positive attitude and I'm going to try and follow her lead and not stress about it.

Even if it takes a little longer, it'll work out for the best in the end.

I hope if I keep telling myself that, it will actually happen!

The same goes for the Unicorn Watch.

If we find one, great! If not, maybe we'll look in the next town.

Besides, you know what they say, once you stop looking for something, it usually shows up!

So Ella's decided to focus on something she can actually do right now.

Become a Supernatural!

Let's see which one she picks in Chapter 194: Werewolf, Genie, or Witch?
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

As a bright green mist rises from her feet from the elixir bottle she's just used on herself, I ask, "Which one did you pick Ella?"

"Well, we had elixirs for a quite a few of them, but we already have fairies, vampires, mermaids, and ghosts in the family, so I wanted to try something different. I narrowed it down to either a werewolf, a genie, or a witch. Unfortunately, we only had elixirs for two of those, and I decided being covered in dark hair and having pointed teeth wasn't something I wanted."

"It doesn't sound like your style," I agree, picturing the image she just described in my mind.




When the mist disappears, I see an apple appear in her hand.

"Wow, that was fast! I thought maybe it would take some time to develop, but I can already feel the magic flowing through me!" she says in awe.

"You're a witch now! How does it feel?"

"It tingles! I feel great! Different, but still me, too."

"Well, it usually doesn't change your personality, just your genetics. So I've read anyway. I've not played families with witches much. Though I've had a few of my sims be on the receiving end of spells."

"Good spells?" she asks.

"Some of them! One spell made my sim lucky, so he bought a lottery ticket, and won! It really helped him and his family out a lot."

"But I'm guessing others spells weren't so good?"

"Well, the fire and ice ones are uncomfortable for the sims they're directed at, so you need to be very careful with both of them. And one of my sims was turned into a toad, which was no fun! But the love charm needs to be used very sparingly, as it can cause more harm than good. You need lots of practice and good judgement as a witch."




Ella pulls out her newly acquired wand and starts playing with it, while bursts of magic flow around her.

"This so cool Watcher! I can feel the air around me just dancing with magical power!"




She continues practicing then says, "I think I'm ready now."




"Ready for what?" I ask, as I follow her to the kitchen, a little alarmed.

"To try my hand at transfiguration!" she replies excitedly.

"Isn't it a little too soon for that? You've only been a witch now for a whole five minutes!"

"Plenty of time Watcher. I mean if I wasn't supposed to try it out, why would I get the option in my witch infancy, so to speak."

"Well, that sounds like a reasonable supposition. But be careful."

Ella places a small piece of iron on the counter and I watch fascinated.




And with a wave of her wand, it changes into a ….cookie!?!

"Oh, I guess I was expecting something a little bit bigger, or grander maybe." I say, disappointment clearly  evident in my voice.

"It's not just a cookie Watcher! It's a starship cookie! Besides, like you said, I've only been a witch for five minutes and it was on a counter. Something bigger might have done some damage. Gramlei wouldn't like me messing up her kitchen first thing!" A bit nervously she adds, "I could break a pipe or set the stove on fire."

"All good points. Maybe a witch wasn't the best choice for you, being neurotic?"

"No, I'm thinking I should just practice somewhere safer, away from other sims, not in the house. At least until I gain some skill and can control it."

"That sounds like a good idea."




Lorelei has a busy afternoon herself and heads across the road to Marshall and Dahlia's house for the twins' birthday.

But it's Dahlia and David that help her celebrate as Marshall's taken the triplets on an excursion in town.

She brings little Sammy to the cake and helps him blow out his candle as Dahlia blows a party horn.




And as the sparkles disappear, we see that Sammy has inherited Lorelei's turquoise hair, just like his older siblings, Michael and Mahlia!

I love that he aged up in sneakers to match!




But Lorelei has to go to work soon, so she brings Lorie to her cake, blows out the candle, and sets her on the floor.




And before the sparkles dissipate, I'm staring at Lorie in shock!

Has the Frio auburn hair finally appeared for generation nine?!?

After both Adam and I had resigned ourselves to it's disappearance with gen 8's kids?




I quickly pop her into stylist and sure enough, her hair is on the orangey-brown scale!

The Frio auburn hair stays alive through yet another generation!

Not that we're focusing on such things anymore. Just saying.

But it's funny how it shows up after you've decided it's okay if it doesn't!




Meanwhile, Odette and Cinda are still bonding and decide to finish up Odette's driving skill.

From inside the motive mobile Odette says, "Finish up? I haven't even started learning yet Watcher! Haven't you been paying attention? I thought it was my dad who was Absent-Minded."

"Oh, sorry. I guess I forgot. My bad."

I don't have the heart to tell her that for some odd reason, neither of her parents or Gramlei, popped wishes to teach her to drive, but all three of them did for her siblings!

Oh well, some things are better left unsaid, only causing hurt feelings.

The important thing is, she learns and completes her own wish.

Hurrying to get inside the vehicle, Cinda says, "Yes, that's the important thing, Watcher!" And smiling at Odette she adds, "Let's go sweetie. Turn right at the corner and we’ll head out of town. It's easier without a lot of traffic or distractions for your first lesson. You've read the handbook, and you'll know what works best for you. Some people are in too much of a hurry instead of letting things take their natural course, and we all know how well that turns out!"

Somehow I get the idea that those words are directed at me.

Odette may have forgiven me about prom and her rejected kiss easily enough, but I'm afraid Cinda's going to be a different story.

Great, I've gotten on the bad side of a mean-spirited fairy!




After her driving lesson, Odette meets Chase at the Summer Festival.

True to his words on prom night, he called and asked her out on a date at the first opportunity!

They tell each other inside jokes, laughing and giggling, like only teens can about the silliest things.




And flirt.

Yes, they're flirting!

But I'm not doing any interfering, I'm letting them set the pace.




Then they head off to the photo booth for a picture together.

Okay, so I did a little interfering.




But I really wanted a festival photo!

Aww, it came out great! I like these two together.

Odette with her MH skin, though it looks peachier in photos, and her dramatic dark looks.

Chase, the perfect combination of original residents, Sharpo Marks and Janet Torrence.

I think his skin tone and hair color will be a nice addition to the Frio family tree, if it shows up.

I'm really looking forward to seeing what generation ten's children may inherit.




Then they both try their hand at skating.

Well, their feet anyway.

Chase is a bit shaky, almost falling down several times.

While Odette's a bit more stable since she had some practice as a child.

Or wait. Maybe it's because she's not wearing skates!?! Hmm, another game glitch?

Maybe we don't have as much time in RH as I thought.




I wanted to have them skate with each other, but there doesn't seem to be an option for that.

Yet, out of nowhere, a male teen offers to help Chase, and he happily takes his hands and they start twirling around together!

"Hey you! Teen, that's interfering with my heir's date---get lost!"

Unfortunately, neither of them can hear me, or if they did, they just ignored me.
(Which is pretty typical for a Capp, as it turns out the interfering teen is Kent!)

I lose either way.

Or more importantly, Odette loses!

Not only critical date time, but her balance as well.

But she caught herself just in time, and saved herself from a nasty fall.




I decide to leave Odette and Chase on their own, and hope for the best.

Besides I see a disturbance over by City Hall.

Let's see what's going on.

Protestors again! But what are they protesting this time?




Oh, well, this is a change.

Citizens protesting for nuclear energy?

And is that Marshall right in the middle of it?




"Marshall, you missed the twins birthdays! Sammy has turquoise hair and Lorie's is auburn, just like yours, and she has beautiful blue wings now!"

"That's great Watcher! But I really need to hear what the towns people have to say about the nuclear energy plant they want to bring into town. My families staying here and I want to make sure this will be safe for them before I make any decision for or against it!"

"Speaking of your family, where are the triplets?"

"I gave them permission to check out the festival, they're way too young to understand or be part of a demonstration like this. And sometimes these things get a bit heated. I don't want my kids involved in anything that could get them hurt."

"Understandable. But did you know Cullen was here participating in the protest?"

Nodding Marshall replies, "He's a teen and of an age to have opinions about such things. But with his temper, I'll make sure I keep an eye on him. It's those with short fuses than can escalate peaceful demonstrations into mob scenes!"




Marshall may be still weighing the choices about nuclear energy, but Cullen seems to be all for it!

Carrying a sign and yelling for progress to make RH a better place for all it's citizens.

I don't have the heart to tell either one of them that I've never seen a nuclear power plant or any kind of power plant in any Sims town, ever.

It's good they're getting involved and becoming part of the RH community, even if the protest is over something that can't possibly happen.




Back at the house, I find someone else working on her skills.

Hiding skills that is!

Little Merida has discovered the toy box!




But Odette tracks her down and gives her some cuddles.

"We haven't forgotten about you sweetling! I know Ella and Eric and I are taking up a lot of mom, dad, and Gramlei's time with learning to drive and getting ready for our upcoming party, but you're important too."




"And if you ever forget it, the tickle fingers won't!"

Odette's heart warms as Merida's sweet toddler laughter fills the room.

And even more so when her baby sister says, "More tickles, 'dette, more tickles!"

Happy to oblige in such a simple way, Odette tickles her again.

And the two sisters, the oldest and youngest in the heir family, become friends.




Well, Ella's finally gotten her wish and become a supernatural, a witch!

But she's decided practicing her magic may best be done away from the house, until she gains some skill anyway.

Odette and Chase are coming closer to becoming a couple, if I can keep Kent Capp away from him!

And Eric has party plans for his first Saturday night as a teen.

Let's see what happens in Chapter 195: A Slumber Party and Practicing Magic
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Hey, it's Lorelei and Eric! And he's driving around effortlessly.

"You got your license Eric! Congratulations!"

Being a good driver, he keeps his eyes focused on the road, replying, "Of course, I did Watcher! This car is the sweetest ride ever. Thanks for taking me driving Gramlei."

"You're welcome Eric. And I'm glad you like it so much as I'm giving it to you!"

Eric's shock almost has him swerving off the road as he says, "But Gramlei, this is Grandpa Samuel's car!"

"And he wants to pass it on to you Eric. Consider it an early graduation present. One I hope you enjoy for a long, long, time!"

"Wow. You're the best Gramlei. I won't forget this!"

With her famous look, Lorelei adds, "Or to return your cousin's toy oven, I hope."

Eric's too happy about the car being his to even sulk about her suggestion, he says, "Done Gramlei! I'll return it in the mail as soon as we get home."




After returning the stolen item via the mailbox, Eric tells his mom what he's done, and about getting his driver's license and Gramlei giving him Grandpa Samuel's car.

Cinda responds with, "And would returning Winnie's toy oven have anything to do with your Gramlei?"

Eric confesses that Gramlei did in fact suggest it, but after she'd already given him the car, not as a bribe or anything.

"I would have returned it eventually mom, and I've not let my klepto trait get the better of me again."

"That's because you've not been anywhere alone to use it, isn't it?"

"Maybe." And hoping to end that particular line of conversation, he says, "I've been focusing on my fairy magic mostly though. Wanna see a fairy trick?"

"Sure. Let's see what you've got!"

Eric waves his hand and Cinda is engulfed in the freeze of Chattering Teeth!




Cinda then tells him turn about is fair play, and before he can protest, she casts the Gold and Toads spell!

Eric stands still waiting for something to happen, but nothing does.

"That one's a dud mom! Nothing happened. Looks like my trick was better than yours!" he adds with a laugh.

Cinda just smiles, says, "Guess so" but I hear the sly edge in her voice when she asks, "Isn't your slumber party tonight?"

"Yeah. The kids should be arriving around 7. Why?"

"No reason. But I hope you're still feeling chipper then!" she asks with a distinctly gleeful tone.




Eric sits down to finish his extra credit book before his slumber party tonight with not a care in the world.

"Are you planning on wearing your tux at the slumber party?"

"Watcher, you know we'll all automatically change into slumber jams. No need to waste time by changing before then."

"But you won't want to mess up your suit Eric. You should change!"

"What are you going on about? I'm reading a book. How could I mess up my suit doing that?!"

"Eric, your mother's been a fairy a lot longer than you have and her tricks are very powerful. I'm not exactly sure what to expect from the Gold and Toads one, but I read it and it sounds nasty!"

Eric just shrugs and keeps on reading.

Well, I tried. Everyone please remember that I tried.




Welcome all, you're just in time to see the teens start arriving.

Eric's slumber party is so they can meet all the teens in the neighborhood.

Well, not all, but some of them anyway.

Maybe one of them will find a partner and add some more RH genetics to the Frio family.

But Rosalie Shear (adopted daughter of Dylan and Audrey) is much older and has a partner.

Though she would have been a wonderful addition to the Frio line with those cheekbones!




And Lauren Shear, Rosalie's sister, the natural daughter of Dylan and Audrey (thanks to NRAAS), is partnered too, and even older than Rosalie.

And this frown makes me wonder if she might be Grumpy like Eric.

That wouldn't do at all!




I check on Ella and find her in the hot tub with a boy!

Oooh, now we're getting somewhere!

The boy is Lukas Cassat and though he's partnered with Susan Spinelli Dandy, I might be persuaded to change that.

But then I check his age and he's -1 from aging up!

I guess I should have checked teens ages before having Eric make up the guest list.




Then I get pulled to Eric, who's moaning on the roof top balcony.

"I don't feel so good Watcher. Must be something I ate."

"I have a feeling it's gold or a toad Eric."

"What? I haven't been eating either of those things! Who would?"




Then he gasps and clasps his hand over his mouth.

Oh, this isn't going to be good.

I hate seeing people or sims be sick.




As I watch with my hand shading my eyes, Eric spews forth…..gold!

"Wow, what a lucky boy Eric. You got gold!"

Wiping the metal from his lips, Eric, yells, "Lucky! That was horrible! It felt like hot lava inside and tasted worse!"

"But at least it wasn't a toad! And it could be worth something!"




Bending down, Eric says with surprise, "It is gold! I better keep this someplace safe."

And he scoops it up and puts in in his inventory.

I don't say anything else, I know he wouldn't believe me anyway, but I have a bad feeling that he's just started feeling the effects of his mothers' spell.




Downstairs, I find Odette playing guitar for some of the teen guests.




Eric's started feeling better so he's joined the group, welcoming Lauren Shear.

"Thanks for coming to my party Lauren. Make yourself at home."




But he doesn't feel well for long as soon I see him spewing out more gold!

With Rory asking with concern, "You okay son? You don't look well."

Swallowing hard, Eric replies, "I'll be okay dad. Just feeling the effects of a fairy trick. I didn't think the one mom played on me was very effective until recently. It doesn't do anything at first, but it sure packs a punch when it gets going. I'm just hoping I only throw up gold and no toads!"

Rory's almost afraid to ask, but he plows forward with, "Toads? She can make you throw up toads?"




Eric, still reeling from his last episode says, "So far it's just been gold for me, and I'm really hoping not dad. But I'll keep you posted."

"Maybe I better get your mother? If she played the trick, maybe she can take it away?"

"Nope. Got to take it like a man…uumm. A fairy, dad. Fair's fair. She let me play a trick on her and I didn't hold back, so I can't go asking for leniency now. It's just not part of the fae code."

"But throwing up toads Eric?! That sounds a bit much."

"It's a fairy thing dad, not something anyone but a fairy would understand. But now I get why everyone says not to make a fairy mad, especially a mean-spirited one. And why it's not fair to play fairy tricks on non-fairies. Other sims just can't fight back in the same way. This is so much worse than a prank!"




Then Lorelei sets out some plates of food for the ravenous teens and they all head for the kitchen.

Hot dogs, spaghetti, and autumn salad. Something for even the pickiest eater.

But no one in this crowd seems that picky.

Except Eric, who eyes the hot dog on the kitchen table with pure disgust!

I guess he's still feeling a bit ill.




Then Ella finds Darren and asks if he's found out anything new about locating a unicorn.

"No. Just what I told Eric, that you need to keep watch every night between 8 pm and 5 am. The Watcher told us she's been doing that, but no luck so far."




Then Elle straightens up as if struck, and a boys face appears over her head, surrounded by hearts!

"Did someone just arrive Watcher? I felt something. Something I've never felt before."




I quickly scan the room and find our mysterious someone out on the front porch!

He's thinking about Ella too, though I missed seeing any hearts.

But before I can have her introduce herself, he disappears!




Ella gives up on romance for the night and decides to check out the inland fishing hole.

Maybe she'll spot a Unicorn.

And while she's waiting, she can practice her magic!

Safely away from the house and any other sims.




She practices for hours, until her magic is almost depleted, but no Unicorn appears.




Though she's there so long a paparazzi finds her!




But daylight finds her safely back at the house, where she completes her wish to cast a good luck charm on her mother!

She's such a new witch, I wasn't sure that was a good idea, but the spell worked just fine.




Before the teen guests all head for home, Odette spends some alone time with Chase.

And manages to sneak in a goodbye kiss without her father noticing!

Take that Kent Capp!




Then the teens all head home, telling Eric what a great time they had.

Turns out our throwing-up-gold fairy really knows how to throw an epic party!

Well, he should with all that fairy house party practice he's had.

And he pocketed 5 golden discs as well, and not one toad.

I guess Cinda held back a little bit after all!




Ella's still practicing her magic and watching for a Unicorn.

Eric's gotten a rather metallic taste of being on the receiving end of a powerful fairy trick.

And Odette and Chase are fast becoming a couple.

But we've still got over a week here in RH, so let's see if we can accomplish everything on everyone's wish list!

Join me in Chapter 196: Ordinary to Extraordinary
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

With driving lessons, his first slumber party, and the effects of a nasty fairy trick behind him, Eric spends some time with his baby sister, Merida.

"Odette reminded all of us that you need attention too Merida! Just because we're older and you're pretty self sufficient, no need to neglect you."

But Merida's sweet look harbors no ill will toward her big brother.

She is self-sufficient, being able to go potty by herself, drink pollen punch and sleep in a fairy house.

Though with one down in the basement and one upstairs on the rooftop balcony, she can't actually use those due to the steps when she's on the main floor, a Watcher mistake that one!

And she's content playing with her IF doll for her social needs.

But, being a toddler, she still needs love, comfort, and some attention from her family, so we need to keep that in mind.




Ella's still practicing her magic, safely outdoors, and we're both mesmerized by the pools of shapes and colors she's already able to manifest.

She's reached level 2 and can cast ice blast or fire blast spells now.

But she hasn't actually tried either of those yet, mostly because we're both a little afraid of what might happen.

So she sticks to practicing magic and conjuring apples, only producing two rotten ones, so far!




While Cinda, despite her loner trait, accepts an invitation to a neighbor's party.

My goal was to help her build up her town contacts but her traits got the best of her and this happened!

I should have known better than to think a party with lots of people chatting outside would work out for a loner, hates the outdoors, sim.

That alone put her in a foul mood and when you add mean-spirited to that, I was just asking for trouble!

"Yes, Watcher, you were! I mean, really, don't you ever stop to think about these things!?! Now look at what you've done!"

I just shake my head and move on, she's not going to accept anything I might say when she's in that kind of a mood.




Rory, on the other hand, spends his time either painting or in the pool, as you can see by his attire.

And very rarely tries to offend family, friends, or me.

Quite a refreshing change from Cinda or Eric, though it was sweet of Eric to spend time with Merida.

Now that I think about that, too sweet, I wonder what he's got up his sleeve!?!




But no time to dwell on that line of thought, as Merida needs a bottle.

Since Rory's the parent at home, he willingly helps me out, and heads down to the main floor.

"Here you go sweetling! Drink up."




With her hunger bar restored to full, Merida plays with her peg box, trying to master it before she ages up.

I love the sweet look on her face here!

Our brave, insane fairy toddler is one of my easiest family members to look after.




I find Ella close by still practicing her magic, all smiles and happiness.

She's working on perfect circles and doing a pretty good job.

Until she loses focus!




And totally freaks out!

"Ella, Ella, it's okay! Calm down. Nothing bad happened, you're fine."




But nothing can stop a neurotic sim from stopping a freak out episode, especially not in the middle of one.

Once it's over, she says, "I could feel the magic slipping away, and I panicked. But I feel fine now."

"Ella, if you panic over a magic circle when you're just practicing, what's going to happen if you try a spell on someone or something and it goes wrong?"

Pondering my question, three of her traits show in her reply, "I really don't want to think about that or I'll freak out again. But I'm not going to quit and go back to being a mere human! Being a Supernatural, a witch with magic powers, is just too cool!"




I leave her to it, and check on Odette, who's on a date with Chase.

They'd gone into town to catch a movie at the theater and are now outside chatting.




I hang around and watch to see how the date's going.

They're getting along fine, chatting, flirting, keeping their relationship positive.




Then they hug!

So it's getting more romantic by the second, and my eyes are glued to the screen.




Odette gives him flowers, romantic red, to keep the romance going.




Which leads to a romantic kiss!

I've intruded quite long enough and they're doing fine on their own.

No need for me to intervene at all, which would probably ruin it anyway!




Then I realize something, something obvious, but I was caught up in their date and she is the heir, so she deserves the attention, but….it's dark!

And close to 8 pm!

So I send Ella to the inland fishing hole to see if we have any luck with the Unicorn Watch tonight.




Neither of us sees any tell tale lights, but we figure the more eyes the better, so she calls Eric and her cousins to help keep watch.

The boys show up but with nothing happening, they get bored, bed down in sleeping bags and fall asleep!

Some help they are!



 
I wait a bit and check map view.

And…lights! A distinct glow over by the fishing hole!

A magical unicorn aurora!?!

I have to go in for a closer look.




There it is! A unicorn in all it's glory, no longer just a fairy tale, but one in the flesh!

And what a beauty she is, completely white, coat, tail, mane, and horn.

A truly wonderous sight to behold with her head thrown back, forelegs prancing high, and emanating her own magical light.




I'm wondering if Ella's going to be too nervous to approach her, now that she's actually found one.

But her brave and supernatural traits come to the fore, and she steps boldly up to the beautiful creature and holds out her hand.

"Don't be scared girl. I won't hurt you. I've loved Supernatural creatures since I was a child. And I've joined your magical ranks, becoming a witch myself, not long ago."

The mare hesitates, but then sniffs at her outstretched hand, whinnying softly as she takes in Ella's own supernatural scent.




To put the mystical creature even more at ease, she starts sharing her love of rainbows, saying, "The colorful aspect of rainbows has always enchanted me, along with the stories of treasure to be found at their ends. But your lights are shrouded in even more magic and mystery, being so much more elusive. Thank you for letting us see them, for giving me this opportunity to meet you."




Then Ella witnesses and even rarer sight as the unicorn begins cropping grass and manifests it's own rainbow!

"Oh, you love them too, you dear, dear creature!" she exclaims, and doesn't surprise me in the least when she pops a wish to befriend the unicorn.

And moments later, The Fairy Tale Finder Lifetime Wish, also appears!

Ella says, "I know it's not typically done, Watcher, choosing a Lifetime Wish at teen, but since I'm not heir, is it possible…."

I only hesitate for a moment before I accept it as her LTW.

As a spare and with so many in the family moving with us, Ella may not get another chance to fulfill this or any other Lifetime Wish.

She whispers, softly, "Thank You Watcher. I know you have no way of knowing if there's time to complete it. But thank you for giving me this chance."




With the unicorn eating by the pond, Ella tries to wake her sleeping cousins.

"Guys, wake up," she's says in an urgent whisper, "You're missing it!"

As she feels a snuffle of soft breathe on her neck, she turns to find the mare behind her, she takes an apple out of her pack out and holds it out in her flattened palm.

While the animal crunches happily away on one of her favorite treats, the boys wake up, but stumble around sleepily.

None of them even aware of the unicorn's presence!




And within moments, the boys snuggle back in their sleeping bags, returning to slumber with the creature only an arms length away!

Ella says, "It's your doing isn't it? You don't let everyone see you. That makes it even more special that I have! Thank you."

The animal stands still but gives a shake of her head, ears perked, her white mane flowing along her supple neck.

Ella laughs and says, "I'm thinking you're more interested in another treat than meeting them."

Her words elicit a happy snort from the unicorn and Ella believes in her heart that she's interpreted the creature correctly.

As she reaches back into her pack, she says, "Good thing I brought a bunch of these with me!"




Then they're joined by another creature, this one a dog, who is very aware of Ella's status as a witch!

I love it when animals pop these icons, sensing Supernaturals and Occults as only they can.

But seeing the witch on a broom, I ask, "Ella, can you ride a broom?"

Ella shrugs and says, "I don't know, maybe? I mean witches usually can, so I should be able to."

Eagerly I say, "Give it a try! I want to see!"

Ella shakes her head, and says, "Not now Watcher. I've got to spend as much time with her as I can to become friends. Besides, it's dark! That doesn't sound like the best time to start riding around on a magical broom!"




As they walk together in the moonlight, Ella continues to let the mare sniff her hand, gives her apples, and progresses to rubbing her neck, as well as continuing to chat about rainbows.

Then I realize I've left out a crucial step in becoming friends with someone.

"Ella, I was so caught up in finally finding her, I forgot to tell you her name. She's called, 'Lady'."

With a smile and another pat, Ella, says, "And a beautiful Lady you are! My name's Ella."

At the exchange of names, the mare whinnies, showing her approval, and their friendship level increases again.




So what began as an ordinary day turned into an extraordinary one!

Odette and Chase having a dream date.

Ella finally finding a Unicorn, Lady, and wanting to befriend her.

And me allowing her to choose her LTW a bit early, as The Fairy Tale Finder!
 
So, now comes the harder task for Ella, befriending Lady and adopting her.

Which isn't quite as easy as it sounds, as if I remember correctly, to adopt one, the unicorn requires you to be friends with three of the following, a cat, a dog, a horse, or a sim!

So while Ella's waiting for Lady to appear in town again, she'll be doing her best to make pet friends.

As other family members develop their friendships too.

Let's see how she progresses in Chapter 197: Developing Friendships
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

When Grandpa Samuel appears later that evening, he's bombarded with news from both his granddaughters.

First Odette, who tells him all about Prom, and Chase growing up, and the dates they've been on.

"He's so nice grandpa, and so sweet. I really like him a lot."

Samuel nods at her bemused expression and fondly thinks back to his own teenage years with Lorelei.

"I'm happy that you've found someone sweetheart. Your face just lights up when you talk about him!"




"And what about your music? How's that going?" he asks.

"Oh, I've been practicing every free moment! Guitar, bass, and piano, so far, but I'll get to the drums eventually. Eric jammed with me the other day, and we didn't sound half bad. Well, I'm going to go get cleaned up and ready for bed. It's been a long day grandpa."

"Night Odette, sweet dreams!"




After her truly exciting evening, Ella couldn't wait to tell her grandpa all about it.

"A lot has happened since you took me driving grandpa, I'm so happy you're here so I can tell you everything, " she exclaimed happily.

"Well, don't keep me in such suspense Ella! Fire away!"

"First, I chose a supernatural and I'm now a Witch! I can practice magic, conjure apples, and I know a charm, and two spells already," she said with pride.

"Do tell? What kind of charm? Have you tried casting any spells yet?" he asks intrigued.

"I've used the Lucky Charm on myself and mom, and it gives you luck for 24 hours. But I haven't dared try the ice or fire blast spells yet. I'd hate to set someone on fire or freeze them. Neither one sounds fun."




Then, not being able to wait a second longer she blurts out, "And….I found a Unicorn, Grandpa Samuel! They're real. I let her sniff my hand, and I fed her some apples, and I told her all about my love for rainbows and she can even make one herself. Plus she has a beautiful aurora of white light that surrounds her. Everything Darren found out wasn't just a myth, it's all true!"

Listening with avid interest, Samuel smiles at her enthusiasm, and says, "How wonderful! She truly sounds magical. I'm so happy your wish has finally come true Ella."




"Me too. But now I've even got bigger wishes! The Watcher let me choose The Fairy Tale Finder for my Lifetime Wish, which means adopting a unicorn into the family. But before I can do that, I have to befriend her.  So the Watcher told me the unicorn's name, which is Lady, and I told her my name, and that helped to develop our friendship a lot. Calling her by name was so much more personal."

"Names are powerful things, Ella, just ask any genie! They can be enslaved by someone using their secret name. I read that in a book a long time ago. So don't be offended if you ever meet one and they don't choose to share it with you. They've become wary after being put in bottles and lamps!"

Being an occult now, Ella's outraged at the very idea, saying, "Well, I don't blame genie's one little bit for being upset about that. I don't think anyone would be happy being imprisoned at all, but especially not in a tiny bottle or lamp! How cruel!"

Thinking about all the lamps we have in the family chests, I cringe, and hope Ella doesn't decide to go on a quest and free them all!

We've got enough on our plates with her current wishes.




But the subject is dropped, thankfully, and they share a loving hug, before Ella follows her sister's example and heads off to bed.




The next morning, with everyone refreshed after a good night's sleep, Odette chats with her father.

"How's your painting going dad? Any closer to those 5 masterpieces you wanted to complete?"

Always happy to talk about his painting, Rory replies, "Two done so far, and I've got several underway, but I won't know until their finished if they'll be masterpieces or not. The last couple were only Brilliant."

"Brilliant ones sound awesome dad. You'll have to show them to me sometime. I've still got the same painting I started ages ago on one of the easels. Maybe you could give me some tips so I can at least finish it and free it up again?"

"I'd love to Odette. Whenever your free, I'd be happy to give you a hand."

"Thanks dad! I'll let you know when I'm ready to give it another try."




They share a hug as Rory, says, "Oops, I think your baby sister's awake. I better go check on her. After you mentioning how we were leaving her on her own too much, I've been trying to check on her every hour or so."

Cinda had just settled down in the lounge chair but she offers to check on their youngest daughter.

But Rory won't hear of it, "You've been called in to the precinct in the middle of the night a lot lately. You may have a bit more stamina as a fairy, but you still need your rest. I've got this!"




I follow along and smile as I see how he plays with her.

Attack of the Claw is still a Frio family favorite with their toddlers, and Merida loves it like most of them do.

Though if she didn't have her eyes squeezed shut, I wonder if she'd find Rory's eyes as scary as I do!




The afternoon rolls around and Odette is on another date with Chase at the Summer Festival.




And my heart soars when she asks him to be her boyfriend and their kiss seals the deal!




Then she surprises him with the fairy dust she got from her mother.

But before she can sprinkle it on him, my attention is caught by the pregnant lady nearby.

It's Bonnie Davis Simovitch! And I seem to recall her just having a baby girl with Henry not that long ago.

I'm curious as to what she's having this time, so I peek using NRaas and stare in shock!

No, not because it's twins, but because the father is Clyde Reeves!

I check from the neighborhood view and sure enough, she's left Henry Simovitch's house and he's living on his own again.

The poor man, to give Bonnie such a good life, and three children, and have her go back to Clyde and have another child with him!

While he's in prison no less! The workings of her mind will forever be a mystery.




But back to our couple and the fairy dust.

Wow, look at them both glowing!

I hardly ever remember to use it, so it's something to see when I do.




And check out Odette flying!

But, wait, I see a dog in the background!

From Darren's research we think Ella will have to make several pet friends, so here's her chance to get started on that!




I quickly have her come to the festival and when she arrives, there are even more pets visiting the park.

She quickly stoops to pet and brush a cat, while the nearby dog tries to destroy a chair.




She distracts the dog from his misbehavior by letting him sniff her hand, talking to him, and brushing him down as well.

I check their relationship bar and it's not moved much at all!

This is going to be pretty slow going and we don't have much time, so we'll just have to keep at it.




Ella spends the next hour repeating all the friendly interactions she can with the dog, Jasper Marks.

The friendship bar is moving but very slowly.

And there's Odette all fairy dust sparkly trying out the skating rink again.




As night falls, Odette and Chase's fairy dust glow is hard to miss as they kiss goodbye.

Such a nice sparkly effect fairy dust has, makes even the most mundane task magical, but there's nothing mundane about these two, so it just adds to the magic of teen love.




But then I see something even more surprising, Ella speeding along in the dark on a broom!

"Hey, I thought you said learning to fly in the dark was a bad idea?!"

"It wasn't my idea at all Watcher! It's after 8 and I wanted to check and see if Lady was at the fishing hole. I came to the road, and the next thing I knew, I was speeding along on this broom! I didn't even know I had one! But it's like it knows where I want to go and the magic is just taking me there. It's pretty cool!" she adds a bit breathlessly.




And we're in luck!

Hey, I wonder if it was Ella's lucky charm that made her have the luck to find Lady the other day?

Before I can ask her, she says, "Well hello there, Lady. I'm so glad you showed up again."




And all through the night and early morning hours, Ella talks to, pets, and does everything in her power to increase her relationship with the magical mare.

With a bit more moonlight, we can actually see Lady more clearly, and her coat is actually a beautiful ivory cream with her mane, tail, and socks on all four legs being a bright white.




Then, as the 5 o'clock hour approaches, there's a flash of blinding yellow light totally surrounding Lady!




Followed by an electric blue bolt that sizzles through the air!




Ending with a purple streak that leaves Ella quite alone in the clearing.




The shock of seeing Lady disappear before our eyes and in such a spectacular way, keeps both of us quiet for a moment.

But then I have to ask, "Why were you thinking of jogging during the whole time Lady was disappearing?"

"The whole time? It took like 3 seconds Watcher! She was here, I was petting her, and then she was gone! I was actually thinking of how powerful and athletic she must be to do that so fast and so spectacularly. "

"True. I wasn't expecting it to happen like that at all. I thought she'd disappear yes, but not with all those lighting effects. It sure was something. I've never seen anything quite like it before."

"Never, Watcher?"

"Never. I had a sim befriend and adopt a unicorn once in another town, but I guess I've never been around when it was 5 am before. It's quite the experience."

"It sure was. I better head home and get some sleep before the sun comes up!"




The family is trying to stay close to each other despite their own hobbies and interests keeping them busy.

Odette and Chase's friendship developed into a romance and they're now going steady!

And Ella's met both a cat and a dog, trying to develop friendships with them.

As well as finding Lady for the second night in a row and spending some quality time developing the most important thing in her life right now, befriending a unicorn!

Things are moving right along, and wishes are being completed left and right.

Will events continue going smoothly or will there be some bumps along the way?

Join me and find out in Chapter 198: Cute Toddlers and a Quest
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Though a lot of her grandchildren are school age, there are still a few who need some time special time with Gramlei, so Lorelei heads over to Lucas and Tia's home to check on her youngest granddaughter.

Tia greets her at the door with a smile and says, "Winnie's been waiting for you, quite impatiently, too! Ever since I mentioned you were coming to visit it's been, 'Want Gram'e, want Gram'e now!', she's usually easy going but not when she wants you!"

"I'm here now and I can't wait to see her, so let's get inside and not keep her waiting."




Seeing toddler Winnie for the first time, Lorelei exclaims, "Oh, she's so precious Tia. And just look at her dark hair! Your children sure have surprised us with their hair colors, turquoise, blonde, and now a beautiful brunette."

Tia laughs and says, "Not one of them with either Lucas' auburn or my red, so we've always gotten some looks let me tell you! Thankfully, that's all it's been, looks, no one dares say a word to a Frio!"

Lorelei's back bone straightens as she responds with, "And they better not!" Then, with a wry laugh, she adds, "Easy to see why Winnie's a bit stubborn when it comes to family, she sure gets that naturally!"




But now that her Gram'e is here, Winnie happily goes through her toddler paces.

Showing off her peg box skills as Lorelei watches her with a proud and loving look.




Then it's time for tickles and cuddles, which make Winnie laugh with glee.

Saying what all toddlers say, "More Gram'e, more!"




After cuddle and tickle time, Lorelei takes her by the hands and has her walk a few steps.




And though she's focused on Winnie, her heart fills when Lucas get home and she sees just how much in love he and Tia still are as they whisper together, heads close.




When it's time for Winnie's dinner, Cullen picks her up as Lorelei says, "I've found a book of some great toddler recipes, let's see if she likes the vegetable medley one!"

"I'll get her settled in her high chair while you get it ready, she's not one for waiting on her dinner."

"I don't think very many toddlers are, they don't want to stop playing until they're starving, then fuss when they have to wait for you to make it so it's fresh and warm!"




But with Cullen and Lorelei working in tandem, Winnie's happily eating her new food in no time.

She ate it pretty fast, but we're not sure if she enjoyed the vegetable medley recipe or not.

Maybe the fruit compote one would have gone over better.




Then it's time for Lorelei to head out, so she snuggles Winnie one more time, realizing just how much she's going to miss the family staying here in Roaring Heights.




Back at the main house, Rory spent some more time with Merida.

The peg box seems to be a favorite with all toddlers.




And though he's a loner, Rory's trying to avoid going stir crazy by getting out of the house now and then.

First he went to, where else, the Art Museum, and seeing Marshall there, they had quite the conversation, discussing the art work around them as well as Rory's own paintings.




Then Marshall told him he was meeting Dahlia at the gym, and invited Rory to join them, to work out all those kinks from the long hours he spends standing in front of easels.

Rory agreed, but looking at his expression compared to Dahlia's, you can see that he doesn't relish the exercise like she does!

But when I notice Dahlia's clothes I have to ask, "Aren't you afraid you'll lose a sandal on the treadmill? That would hurt!"

"Oh no Watcher, it actually heightens all my senses having to make sure they stay on. Keeps me more focused on every aspect of my body."

"If you say so, Dahlia. I can't deny how fit you look and after having 6 children, with a set of twins and triplets!"

"Thanks Watcher, I've worked hard to stay in shape before, during, and after all of my pregnancies, so I can get back to saving sim lives as quickly as possible."

"Well, however you do it, it works, you really look amazing!"




Back at the house, darkness falls, and I see Ella on the front lawn with her wand poised in front of a reporter and spewing flames!

Looks like she finally got over her nervousness and let loose with a fire blast spell!




The reporter was, as you can imagine, a bit singed, but still quite alive.

I'm sure that's going to be front page news tomorrow, a Frio who's become a witch and casting spells on unsuspecting RH citizens!

Hopefully, there won't be too many negative repercussions from that.




But there are bigger things on tonight's agenda than a singed paparazzi.

Down in the basement, Odette and Eric finish up their homework as they discuss future careers.

"I can't choose Hit Movie Composer as it's already been completed by and heir and a spare. But I'm hoping to get the choice of Rock Star or maybe something in politics, as neither of those have been done yet."

"I have a feeling I'm going to be following Founder Claire's LTW and choosing Master Thief!" Eric adds. "I know it's not something mom or Gramlei would prefer but it is my choice after all! Unless I get a trait at my young adult birthday that gives me something else that appeals to me more."

Nodding in agreement as she writes down her last answer, Odette says, "That's true. I still have my YA trait that could change my options, especially since I'm not a fairy. Mom was saying she only had a choice of three besides the fairy options, but I did some research and I think there may be six choices altogether."

Eric's ears perked up when he head the words 'fairy options', and he eagerly says, "Since I got my klepto trait, that's been at the top of my list. But I'd forgotten about those fairy options!" But then remembering just how badly he felt during his mother's Gold and Toads trick, he asked, "Do any of those have bad effects on the fairy?"

Odette wrinkled her nose and replied, "I'm not sure, mom didn't explain them fully. She did say that one of them was Greener Gardens and that Uncle Marshall chose Magic Makeovers, as none of his other choices appealed to him."

Blowing out a sigh, Eric said, "Greener Gardens sounds like a lot of work, and since Uncle Marshall picked the other one, I guess I'll stick with Master Thief for now."

Odette raises an eyebrow and says, "If it's one of your choices! Though with your Grumpy and Can't Stand Art traits not really generating any LTW's , it probably will be. And you might get Monster Maker being Eccentric and all."

Eric's eyes gleam at the thought of that LTW, and he says, "Now that's an interesting one. I could steal all the parts I need and satisfy multiple traits all at once. I better start putting in some time on the inventing table and see what we have for scrap. And what an outlet for my grumpy trait, getting to blow things up! That's even cooler than stealing stuff!"




While upstairs, Ella gets in one more toddler play time with Merida.

"Are you ready for your birthday little sister? This time you actually get to eat the cake!"

Merida giggles and says, "Bwo out candles and eat cake!"




Rory does the honors as Lorelei watches solemnly and Odette barely contains her excitement at her baby sister's child birthday.

Rory stands a good distance back, as Merida leans forward awed by the flickering flames on her candles.

"Now daddy?" she asks.

"Now pumpkin." he says with just a bit of hesitation, his thoughts focused on his youngest child growing up, no longer a baby.




With the candles blown out, Rory places Merida on the floor with big brother Eric cheering and spinning a noise maker wildly.




Merida stands as the birthday sparkles surround her.




And she becomes a child that inherits a trait we haven't seen since Rae's Sam, Cat Lover!

Lorelei toots a party horn with gusto as Merida endures the crossed-eyes of aging up.




When she finishes her first piece of cake, she's ready for her child makeover.

So we head into Stylist and pick a cuter more pixie style haircut.

And choose this for her formal, showing it off as she may not get the chance to wear it.




She quickly picks out the rest of her clothes, donning her jammies as she's tired after her long day.

As Eric chokes down cake behind her, she says, "I'm going to go sleep in the fairy house. Night everyone."

Odette looks at Eric with concern, and with his choked, reply of, "Doesn't go down as smooth as pollen punch," she tells Merida, "Goodnight baby sister and happy birthday."




But I'm more concerned with missing family members.

I know Cinda got called in to work, her cases demanding that more and more.

But where did Ella disappear to?

I find her zooming across town on her broom, and luckily under a street lamp, so I get a great view of her.

"Where are you going in such a hurry? You missed Merida's birthday!"

"It couldn't be helped Watcher, Lady doesn't appear at my convenience! I felt her call just after dad took Merida into the kitchen."




Sure enough, lady is waiting at the fishing spot and Ella wastes no time greeting her and continuing to build up their friendship.

And giving Lady her favorite treat, an apple!

Then Lady surprises us by returning the favor and bestowing a blessing on Ella!

Ladies thoughts become her own as she senses them rather than having them spoken, *Be favored wiccan child and use my blessing wisely.*




Ella takes the opportunity to ask Lady to join her household as the option has appeared for the first time!

Sadly, Lady communes her thoughts again, *I cannot do so at this time, first you must complete a quest and prove to me that you are friend to all other creatures. Only then will I be able to consider your offer!*

Ella realizes that Darren's research has proved true once again, and is even more determined to follow through on her friendships with the dog, Jasper Marks, and hopefully, the cat, Felix Davis.




Lorelei's spent time with her youngest granddaughter, Lucas and Tia's, Winnie.

Rory's spent some free time away from the house at the art museum and the gym.

Ella's cast her first spell, using fire blast on a snoopy paparazzi!

Odette and Eric have been considering Lifetime Wishes they might like to pursue.

Cinda and Rory's youngest, Merida is now a child and will be heading off to school.

And Ella's become close enough friends with the Unicorn, Lady, to get the option to ask her to join the family.

Though that request has been denied until Ella proves herself a friend to all creatures.

Let's see if she can make that happen in Chapter 199: A Few Bumps
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

The next day is Merida's first day of school, and she sits next to Odette, her face calm, though solemn.

Though I was wrong about not getting to see her formal dress, as she's decided to dress up for the occasion.

"You look very nice Merida. I'm sure you'll have a great first day."

"Thanks Watcher. Eric says the kids will love my wings, and after some of his fairy tricks, they'll know better than to mess with me. But it's Odette I'm concerned about as she's sad since she's almost done with high school!"

Odette says, "Not sad really Merida. More like thoughtful, just thinking about the next part of my life, the journey ahead."

Merida takes her sister's hand and giving it a squeeze, she says, "You'll do just fine big sister! You made sure I wasn't being left out, and mom says keeping family in mind is a big part of being an heir. She chose this town not just for her but so Uncle Lucas could follow his Lifetime Wish too. So you don't need to make all the decisions on your own, we'll all help!"

Odette breathes a sigh of relief and says, "Out of the mouth of babes! Thanks little sister," and she squeezes Merida's hand, holding it all the way to school.




The morning goes routinely enough with Lorelei practicing her guitar, slowly gaining on her last skill point.




And Rory finishing yet another painting.

"What's wrong? Don't you like it?"

"It's okay, but I'm trying to figure out what makes it a masterpiece. It doesn't seem much different than most of the others I paint."

"Don't look at me! I'm not an artist or an art critic. I like landscapes and home scenes, country ones especially. Thomas Kincaid is one of my favorite artists! But I like that one too, all mysterious with the  unknown of space to be discovered."

Rory snaps his fingers and shouts, "That's it Watcher! That's what makes it a masterpiece, I've captured the essence of the unknown, of something waiting to be discovered!"




As school ends for the day, I go to check on Merida and see Eric outside chatting with his cousin David's girlfriend, Norma Picard.

Merida, seeing her brother, asks, "Did you wait for me Eric? I don't need a babysitter!"

Eric shakes his head, and replies, "No, I had something I wanted to do after school, nothing to do with you. Did you change your clothes from this morning?"

"We had gym class last period and I didn't feel like changing back. I didn't want to get my nice dress all sweaty. Oh, I better go before I miss the bus. Aren't you coming?"

"Not quite yet, still something I need to take care of here at school. You go on." Then directing his next words at me, he says, "You too Watcher! Nothing to see here!"

I'm not sure I believe that, especially coming from Eric, but I decide to go check on Ella.




I find her visiting the LaFontaine house, chatting away with Jeremy.

"I hate to be such a bother Jeremy, but I'm working on a special quest, for a friend, and it requires me to become friends with all creatures. I met your dog Jasper at the park the other day, so I was hoping I could spend some time with him and become friends."

"A fairy quest? I know they can play tricks and stuff, your brother's showed off to a few of us, but I didn't know they sent others on quests for them."

Shaking her head, Ella answers, "Not a fairy quest, but something that is real important to me."

"I don't see the harm in it and if it helps you, sure, be my guest. But be careful, Jasper's not the easiest dog to make friends with as he's on the aggressive side. I think he's upstairs, probably chewing on one of mom's shoes!"




Ella heads upstairs to track Jasper down and finds out just how right Jeremy is!

Her first few interactions went well enough, letting him sniff her hand, get used to her again.

And talking to him, letting him know she wanted to be friends.

But when she tried to pet him, he growled at her and had her backing off. Fast!

"It's okay boy, I won't hurt you. Sorry I overstepped there."




But opening up her senses to him, she says "You wanted to be brushed!"

And with that, they're back on a friendlier footing.




Then some play time with a chew toy has Jasper even friendlier.

Looks like Ella's getting better at reading his doggy language.

Though the LaFontaine's other pet is howling away at discovering a witch on his home territory!




When it's time to head home, Ella dons her outerwear, as the nights have a distinct chill.

Then she says goodbye to Jasper, the first creature friend of her quest!




Then she finds Lady, to tell her of her success.

"I've made friends with a dog, my first creature friend besides yourself. It wasn't easy but I wasn't expecting a Unicorn quest to be easy!"

Lady nuzzles against her, showing her approval.




Then shows her further approval by blessing Ella again!

*You have started off well, my wiccan friend, let my blessing fill you with magical light!*

Lady's thought had no sooner entered Ella's mind when she felt lighter than air, floating, filled with Unicorn magic!




The next day Lorelei heads to the festival to continue working on her last guitar skill point.

She decides to play for tips, though it's not like they need the money.

And doesn't bat an eye, or miss a chord, when one of the local residents comes out of the haunted house all gray and ghostly!

I guess it's all part of the Fall Festival spooky atmosphere, even if it's the middle of the day.




That afternoon, I see Odette and Chase chatting after school.

And Eric's doing homework, back to back with Norma Picard!

I'm wondering if I should be worried about him spending so much time with David's girlfriend.

Until I listen to what the Home Ec teacher is actually saying, rather moodily, "So nobody here has any idea how all the frogs for the science fair ended up in my classroom!?! Even you Mr. Frio?"

Eric keeps his eyes on his homework as he replies, "I've been working on homework with Norma Ms. Hopkins, I've not even been back inside the school today."

And Norma corroborates his statement with, "That's true Ms. Hopkins, he's been here with me since the dismissal bell rang, working on our homework."




With the other kids heading off to their respective homes or after-school jobs, Ms. Hopkins lingers until it's just her, Eric, and Norma on the front steps.

Giving Eric a calculating look, she says, "You may have gotten away with that prank this time Mr. Frio, but I advise you to keep out of my classroom. It didn't escape my notice that both you and Norma were focused on your whereabout today! Since my students found those frogs this morning, and spent the day cleaning rather than cooking, it's my guess that you did go back inside the school yesterday! So remember, I'll be watching and looking closely for that fairy dust you're always playing with!"

At Ms. Hopkins last words, Eric stops in mid-toss, and flicks the tell-tale residue off his hands, innocently saying, "But you didn't find any in your classroom did you, Ms. Hopkins?"

With a huff and stomp, Ms. Hopkins, replies, "Not yet! But if I do, you can bet the Principal will hear about it!"

I keep quiet but smile since I know Eric's guilty, there's not a shadow of doubt in my mind.




I head back to the house to find Merida playing Queen of the Royal Court in the basement.

"Looks like you're having fun, Merida!"

"That's Queen Merida, if you please, Watcher! It wouldn't do to have my subjects think of me as anything less."

"Oh, pardon me, Your Majesty. I beg your royal forgiveness for the slip."

With a royal nod, along with a girlish giggle, she says, "It will be overlooked, this time, Watcher!"




And when I hear a smothered laugh, along with a groan, I realize Cinda's been listening in as she works out.

"Something funny?"

Nodding, she laughs, openly this time, and says, "Merida has no problem putting anyone in their place, even you Watcher. It amuses me!"

"It would! And I'd be insulted if it didn't amuse me as well! She's so sweet and innocent along with it though, that you have to smile. Your youngest daughter has a beautiful spirit Cinda."

"She does Watcher. I just hope it's not marred by other traits. I'd hate for her to change."

"Life is about change Cinda. You of all sims should know that, and there are more changes coming soon."

"It is getting close to that time, isn't it Watcher? Leaving will hurt, it always does, but there are so many things to look forward to as well. Odette becoming a young adult and taking over heirship, choosing her Lifetime Wish and life partner. Eric and Ella growing up and doing the same, along with Merida, though that's a bit in the future, and in a different town! That's still to be decided on too. Lots of changes on the horizon."

"Household ones too, if Eric and Ella find partners here in RH, that would mean someone staying here with that partner."

With a frown Cinda says, "I can count Watcher! And I know Rory and I set ourselves up for that when we had a fourth child. But…you know, he's already wishing for another baby with Merida becoming a child."

"I saw that wish Cinda but I didn't promise it, not yet, not now. That would definitely mean having Ella or Eric move out and stay here and it would delay Odette's partner from moving in."

"But how could it work later Watcher? We'll need the house space for heir children."

"Well, I've given Rory the choice of keeping him young so he can stay in the next town with you and your children. Once you move out, you'd be free to have another child, especially with your fairy long life. It's something to think about."

With the same startled look in her eyes as Rory had, Cinda just nods, resumes her exercises, and says, "A lot to think about."




Since it's Friday night, Eric and Ella have opted to spend some time hanging out at the Fall Festival.

I find Eric chatting away with new teen Brook Simovitch, Henry and Bonnie Davis Simovitch's oldest daughter.

I'm suspicious that Eric may have an ulterior motive here, knowing that Brook's mother has returned to her old life of crime and he may want an in to try out his klepto trait a bit more.

But my suspicions prove to be unwarranted as he just chats away with her, being friendly, and totally unlike his usual grumpy self.




Then I follow the streaks of magic and find Ella practicing.

The way that elderly lady is crouching in fear, my guess is she's casting another spell.




Sure enough, within seconds, the woman is frosted with ice!

"I thought you were going to avoid using those spells because they're unpleasant?"

"I found out they're only temporary and not life-threatening Watcher. Besides, I need to cast spells to gain skill and increase my magic powers."

"Aren't you supposed to be focusing on befriending creatures, not freezing or singeing them?"

"About that Watcher, we may have a problem. The cat, Felix Davis, is not very sociable, and neither are his owners. Let me tell you what happened."




"I went over to the Davis household earlier tonight, and I told them who I was and tried explaining that I just wanted to make friends with Felix, but they wouldn't even open the door! After an hour of begging, I gave up and started practicing with my wand, in the hopes that they might let Felix outside."




"But the only thing that happened was another paparazzi snooping around and I wasn't in the best of moods, so I let her have it with another fire blast spell! Needless to say, her shrieking and screaming did not make the Davis' change their minds and invite me in."




"Then I tried going over to the Lafontaine's to increase my friendship with their dog, Jasper, and even though I saw Jasper going inside, none of his owners were home, so I couldn't visit him either."

As she finishes her recap of tonight's events, her voice rising near the end, I can hear her frustration and I think I know what's coming.




And I'm proven right when she says, "So I came here, to drown my sorrows in magic! Because if I can't make friends with Felix, or another creature, or keep up my friendship with Jasper, it seems like being a Witch is all my future is going to be, one without a Unicorn!"

"So you're giving up, just like that!?! Without a fight?"

The poor ice blast woman has thawed now, and as Ella notices her frightened stare, she says, "This probably isn't the best place to discuss this Watcher."

I agree as being on the receiving end of a spell and then listening to Ella raving like a lunatic to no one she can see, well the poor woman is frozen with fright, probably wondering just what the crazy teen witch is going to do next!

"Yes, you better go home, maybe take a relaxing bubble bath and we'll discuss this when we're both calmer.




Things are definitely looking bumpy! But there has to be something we can do to fix it.

I just need a moment to think, to come up with plan B.

Then I notice Eric still here and he's slow dancing with a girl, but it's not Brook!

It's Rosalie Shear! The much older, almost a young adult, Rosalie Shear!

Wow, first Ella going off the deep end and now this!

I hope Eric knows what he's doing, but I'm too upset to even find out what's going on.




I head back to the house wondering what could possible go wrong next, and thinking I probably don't want to know.

But I find Lorelei in the living room playing her guitar with gusto and ghostly Samuel looking on with  a big smile.

"What's going on? What's happened now?"

"Look at Lorelei, Watcher! No guitar skill bar! She's reached level 10!" Samuel exclaims with pride.

"Well, that's the best news I've had all day! Congratulations Lorelei, well done!"




The  last couple of days started out well with Merida's first day of school and we ended on a high note with Lorelei maxing her guitar skill.

Eric's full of himself pulling off a prank at school and becoming something of a ladies' man, doing homework with Norma Picard, his cousin's girlfriend, chatting away with new teen Brook Simovitch at the Fall Festival, and then slow dancing with the much older Rosalie Shear that same evening!

And I've given both Rory and Cinda some information that has them both thinking about some interesting possibilities for the future.

But we've run into a few bumps, namely Ella's quest requirement to become a friend of all creatures, as it's become quite the task.

Can we come up with a solution in time or will Ella's future not include her beloved Lady?

Find out with me in Chapter 200: Making More Friends
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Though her sister's not had a great night, Odette is jubilant as she becomes BFF with Lauren Shear.

I can't help thinking that it would be better if it was Ella having such a close relationship with another Sim, as Ella doesn't have any friendships outside of family.




Even Merida is making friends as one of her classmates, Jackson Harbucks, one of the twin boys born to Olivier and Tyra, came home from school with her.

I cringe when I see his pink jellies, though the rest of his outfit is quite appropriate for the fall weather.

I listen in to their conversation and hear the boy ask, "So you can make flowers bloom with your fairy powers?"

Focused on the chess board, Merida replies, "My mom can and my brother, but I'm not old enough to do that yet. But I can fly, and even go inside a fairy house, drink pollen punch, have parties, and even sleep in there."

"That's so cool! Maybe you could throw a party and I could dance outside sometime?"

"Maybe. But right now, I'm planning out a strategy to win this game!"

"You can try, but I play chess with my dad! No girl, even a fairy one, is going to beat me!"




The next morning, I find Lorelei and Eric having a serious discussion at the dining room table.

"The principal called, Eric, said he didn't really have any hard evidence of the culprit, but that a couple of pranks have been played at school lately, one involving the science fair frogs and another involving lots and lots of tp and the principal's own office. He said that he was calling all high school parents so that they could have discussions with their children about vandalism and destruction of school property. He's hoping that will be enough to stop it from happening again and from having to involve the local police department. And I hope so too."

Eric met Lorelei's serious look with his own and said, "I'm sure they were just harmless pranks Gramlei. Just kids' having a bit of fun, not meaning any real harm."

"I realize kids might think that was fun Eric, but for those having to clean up the mess, it's not much fun at all. So I have high hopes that the principal's message will get to the right students and the pranks will stop. No need for the police to get involved, especially a good, but mean-spirited fairy, whose job could be in jeopardy if she was made aware of such things and didn't report it."

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Eric replies, "Understood Gramlei."




And seeing the troubled look in Eric's eyes, Lorelei pulls him in for a hug, saying, "I love you Eric, and I know you'll do the right thing. I was a teen once too, and back then I had a sense of humor. I can see the fun in playing pranks and tricks, but when it could hurt someone's reputation, it's not funny."

"I understand Gramlei. Thanks for keeping this between us. I never thought about it hurting mom, her career. I'll try to make better choices from now on."

"That's my boy!"




Downstairs I find a student on the opposite end of being irresponsible.

Merida's doing her best to get her homework finished and have the rest of the weekend free, but she seems to be having trouble.

"Don't understand the question sweetie?"

"I understand it Watcher, it's just that it could have different answers depending on how you think of it."

"What's the question?"

"If Mary has six apples and gives two away, how many apples will Mary have left?"

"That doesn't sound so hard Merida. You know your subtraction."

"Yes, Watcher, typically the answer would be four, but what if Mary was a witch and could conjure as many apples as she needed or wanted?"

I laugh and say, "You've been watching Ella practice her magic! No need to consider that during your math homework!"

"Are you sure Watcher?"

"Quite sure, Merida. Math is about numbers and specifics, not speculation, or what ifs, those are for scientists and philosophers!"




Then I hear a very distinctive noise coming from upstairs so I head up and check it out.

It's a pretty white cat, our surprise for Ella and Merida!

It's actually part of plan B, one that Lorelei helped me out with.

Meet Zoe everyone!

She's joined the family for a number of reasons.

First of which is that, being a cat lover, Merida had the wish to adopt a cat.

Second, it will hopefully help Ella with two things, increasing the chances of success of her spells with a familiar around, and making it easier to befriend another creature, since she's part of the family now.




I head upstairs to tell Ella and find her with Odette, becoming BFF's!

I don't know if it will help her quest but it's nice to see sister's becoming such close friends.




And before I can say anything, Zoe's trotted upstairs and introduced herself, meowing at Ella first thing.

"Well, where did you come from pretty lady?"




Ella bends down and says, "You don't have a collar, but you look clean and healthy. Somebody's been taking care of you. But your fur looks a little mussed, let me brush that out."

I can't stand it any longer and blurt out, "She's yours Ella, well, yours and Merida's. A gift from Lorelei and me."

As she brushes Zoe, I can hear the smile in her voice, when she says, "Plan B Watcher?"

I smile too and confirm it, "Yes, plan B, if you're game?"

"I am! After a hot bath and a good nights sleep, I realized I was just disappointed and frustrated with what happened with Felix and Jasper. But now with Zoe, we're back in the game!  And if it doesn't go completely as planned, we'll try our luck with plan C, right?" she asks a bit more confidently.

"Never give up! Never surrender! That's my motto!"

"That's from a hokey old sci-fi movie isn't it?"

"It is indeed. One of my favorites, just because."




With Ella busy with Zoe, I notice Odette working to finish that painting she started as a child.

And Rory's giving her some tips too.

"A little lighter there, add some texture, try to feel what the painting is saying to you."

"Feel what the painting is saying? You've lost me dad! It's just blobs of paint I'm trying to make look like something."

"That's the problem. Don't try to make the paint look like anything, feel it and it will become what it's supposed to be. The more you paint, the easier it will be to let that happen. Let the canvas show you what it's meant to be."

"If you say so dad. You make it sound alive and it's just paint on paper."

"Trust me sweetheart, it'll become more than that if you give it a chance."




And with her last stroke, Rory lets out a cheer, complimenting her on the finished painting.

"It's not worth much dad." she says with a frown.

"It's worth more than the first painting I ever did with no skill at all. You've gotten a head start with those painting skill books we read at the library when you were a toddler. I know your music means more to you right now, but don't give up on painting, I think you have potential."

"Really? I'll keep it in mind. You know, the painting is making me think of some great new lyrics for a song! I might be able to use it for inspiration after all!"




As the sun sets, casting it's orangey glow over the town, Ella continues spending time with Zoe.

She's doing her best to make up for the lost time with Felix, and trying to stay positive about her success with the quest.




While Eric and Merida are bonding over their shared fairy heritage.

"Could you teach me some fairy things now that I'm old enough Eric?"

"Sure, I told mom when you were born and your wings were just sparkles that I'd help with fairy stuff. Let's do a fairy frolic, it's super fun! Just think small, tiny, and you'll shrink down to the size of one of your sparkles."




They both spin, and I don't know if it's Ella's witch magic, or if I just got lucky, but I catch them both in mid-twirl!

Multiple yellow rings surrounding them as they shrink down to tiny fairy versions of themselves.




And when the transformation is complete, there are two pink sparkles frolicking on the lawn where once stood two fairy children!

I can hear their high-pitched laughter as they circle around each other, both of them having a blast as they indulge in their fae powers.




When they return to normal size, Merida asks, "How did I do? Is that how it works?"

Eric shows his approval by giving her two thumbs up!

"It's been awhile since I've done that, I'd forgotten how much fun it was! You did great baby sister. It's one of the first steps to exploring your fae roots."

Intrigued by the fairy magic emanating from the front yard, Zoe joins them to see what's going on.

Being a feline she's quite attuned to magic, both fae and wiccan, which is what makes her a great familiar.




Ella followed Zoe, as she could sense the magic as well, and figures the more magic around the better.

She'll take all the help she can get to assist in her efforts to befriend another creature.




With her siblings heading inside, Merida chats with another friend, her imaginary one, Peanuts.

We don't know how long she'll stick around but she's morphed to child size and hasn't glitched yet, so we're keeping our fingers crossed that she'll stick around throughout Merida's childhood.




Inside, Ella plays chase with Zoe, which is funny to watch as she races crazily from room to room following the cat!

If you didn't know what was going on, you'd think she'd gone from being merely neurotic to full blown insane!

But if it increases her friendship level with Zoe, I'm sure she'll continue to do whatever is necessary.




She finally catches her by the piano, and after giving her some snuggles their friendship increases again.

But even though Zoe's part of the family, these increases are very tiny, though Zoe can contribute by actions of her own.

Even so, this process is slow going and is going to take some focused effort for all parties concerned, Ella, Zoe, and me!




As Lorelei plays piano, moving on to another instrument since she maxed guitar, Zoe listens nearby.

And being so close to Ella practicing magic, increases the power of Ella's efforts dramatically with a blue glow!




Afterwards, she picks up Zoe exclaiming, "Wow, that's the first time I've ever felt my magic so powerfully! That was your doing wasn't it girl!?! I read about that in one of my wiccan books, but didn't understand how it worked until now!"

Zoe doesn't answer of course, but her self-satisfied expression, as Ella gives her a loving pat, shows she knows what she's done.




Not wanting to intrude before, Merida finally gives in to her cat lover trait and asks, "Could I meet your cat Ella?"

"She's not just mine Merida, she's yours too! Gramlei and the Watcher got her for both of us. Just introduce yourself and let her get used to your smell and your fairy essence, and you'll be friends in no time."

Merida does just that, saying, "Hello, Zoe, I'm Merida and as you can sense and see, I'm a fairy. I hope we can become good friends as I love cats!"

Zoe purrs her welcome, hearing Merida's heartfelt words and sensing the truth behind them, as she lovingly twines herself around Merida's legs.

With a laugh Merida says, "I think she likes me already!"

Smiling, Ella adds, "Of course she does, what's not to like baby sister!?!"




As Merida heads off to get ready for bed, Ella picks up Zoe giving her another loving squeeze, "Thanks for welcoming her so nicely. I have to remember to share you with Merida and not keep you all to myself."

Zoe purrs her agreement and offers her friendship to Ella, giving her a second friend for her quest, which happened faster than either of us had thought!




Later I find Merida on a submarine adventure in the bathtub.

I never knew children actually used a snorkel when doing this!

Probably because I usually have shower/tub combos where you can't see them this clearly.

But to save Merida from embarrassment, I won't hang around in here, even children need their privacy.




Odette's made BFF status with both her sister, Ella, and her classmate, Lauren Shear.

Merida's met one of her classmates after only two days of school, a young boy who's even come home after school with her, and she's continuing her friendship with her imaginary friend, Patterns.

Eric and Merida are exploring their Fae heritage together and becoming closer friends in the process.

And the household was joined by a cat, Zoe, who Ella's already achieved friendship status with and felt the increased power having a feline familiar brings to a witch!

So things are back on schedule and I hope they stay that way.

But will Ella's friendships with her siblings, one cat, and one dog, plus Lady, be enough to complete her quest?

And we've got some very important birthdays and events coming up!

Follow along as we head into Chapter 201: YA Birthdays and a New Heir
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

And the ghosts show up tonight, three of them at once!

But when I hear Jared's mean chuckle, and see the smile Claire can't quite hide, I pause and pull back.




Make that four ghosts, with Sam fainting dead away at the sight of the other three.

Again.

"Must you laugh Jared?! I mean, he does it so often, aren't you over it by now?"

"No Watcher! I'll find that funny as often as he does it. It's one of the highlights of spending eternity as a ghost!"




Once Sam recovers his dignity and is ensconced in one of the rockers on the back deck, I see Jared hovering.

"No need to fuss at me Watcher, I'm heading for the more comfortable rocker inside, in the girls' room. Sam's provided enough amusement for me for one night!"

With Jerad heading inside, I chat with Sam, saying, "What's the occasion? I was surprised to see four of you appear at the same time?"

Smiling Sam says, "We wanted to welcome the new family member, especially me, as I'm looking forward to getting to know another cat! It's been a long time since I had my Misty."

"I still feel bad about Misty's grave not making it through the move from Moonlight Falls to Bridgeport Sam. Even worse that Grim took her away just before the move, that still rankles!"

"I was upset with Grim for a long time too Watcher, but I've made my peace with him over the years. But now I'm feeling all warm and fuzzy inside with a cat close by. I think I'll just rock here awhile and enjoy the feeling."




When the sun rises on a new day, I find Zoe did stick pretty close to Sam and now she's in the dining area eating.

I had Lorelei, with her handiness skill, upgrade the pet dish to automatic fill, to make sure she always has plenty of food.

This serves two purposes, keeping the poor cat from starving, and stopping all the routing issues as family members converge on the pet bowl all trying to fill it at the same time!




Hearing voices, I see Cinda and Rory are up with the sun too, and Cinda is animatedly discussing something with her husband.

"The Watcher's updated me on some choices we have in the next town Rory! My mind's been pretty occupied the last few days and nights thinking about them."

"Yeah, I had quite the conversation with her a while back. I've been meaning to talk it over with you, but somehow, other things were more of a priority. Dad's passing right after Merida's birth, then her toddler years, the older children going to school and becoming teens, and working on all those masterpieces. So what do you think is best Cinda?"

Shaking her head, Cinda responds with, "Oh, no, this isn't just my decision, Rory. These are choices we need to make as a couple. I'm all for having you live the longest life possible, staying with me in the next town, being with the children and grandchildren there. But if that's not what you want, we'll have to come up with a compromise."

Rory's eyes light up with her words, but his words carry doubts as he says, "I was hoping you'd feel that way, but I thought, maybe you wouldn't mind moving on, sharing your life with another, you have so many years ahead of you! And I'm not the most attentive husband…."

"You stop right there, Rory Hyde Frio! I have never for one moment felt neglected or unloved. You've helped raise our four beautiful children and", here she can't help a smirk showing, "never forgotten their names even once! You might not fawn all over me and focus on your painting until you're stir crazy, but I know I'm not the easiest sim to get along with either. I spend way too much time alone in the basement keeping fit and breaking space rocks, taking chances and risks when I'm on a case. And worst of all, ugly things come out of my mouth before I can stop them, and hurt the people I love!  When you add nasty fairy tricks to it, I wouldn't blame you one bit for wanting to join the family ghosts and letting someone else put up with me!"

Looking into Cinda's eyes, Rory takes her hands and says, "So I think what you're saying, what we're both saying, is that despite ourselves we've found our perfect match." And with a quirk of his lips, "And that no one else would want to put up with either of us, so we're stuck with each other!"

"And as far as I'm concerned there's no one else I'd rather be stuck with Rory. And as the Watcher reminded me, in the next town, out on our own, we may decide to fill our new house with more children!"

The look Rory shares with Cinda then, one filled with love, has me turning my attention elsewhere and giving these two some privacy.




Upstairs, Ella and Eric have also chosen to be best friends forever, so now Ella has two sim BFF's.

But despite all my research, I still haven't confirmed if family friends will count for the Unicorn's quest.

Either way, I'm glad the family is getting along so well, and staying close.

With such a house full, all working on homework, skills, and hobbies, it's quite the trick to keep relationships high as well, especially with Cinda doing her best to irritate others every chance she gets!

She wasn't exaggerating when she confessed to having an ugly temperament and allowing it to overcome her goodness, despite her attempts at self-control.

Add to that the high nerd level that most of the family members have and you've got sims going out of their way to berate each others ignorance!

Luckily, the siblings seem to be all getting along well.

For now, any way.




And before we know it, it's birthday time again, and the first guests are the Frio cousins from across the road.

David, as one of the eldest of this generation of kids, is one of the guests of honor.

But seeing teenage Michael and Mahlia on the porch, with their birth mate, Nathan, still a child, I'm thinking we'll be adding another cake and honoree to tonight's festivities.




The guests start gathering around the kitchen table, where our heir, Odette, is smiling at the group.

Oh, seeing the hearts over her and Chase's heads, I have a feeling that her smile is more for him than anyone else.

Lorelei is the first to pull out a party horn and start tooting away.




This draws the attention of the other guests and birthday boys, and the group grows larger.

Even the new maid has joined in, blowing a party horn of his own.

And both Cinda and Rory are ignoring the crowd as they wouldn't dream of missing their oldest daughter's YA  birthday, even if it means being uncomfortable in such a large group.

Rory claps as he watches Odette contemplate her candles and make a wish.

Cinda gets into the spirit and energetically toots a horn, while the fairy sparkles from both her and Merida's wings add to the magic of the moment.

I swear that middle one looks like a white, glowing heart as it hovers in the air between Odette and Chase!

That looks like a good omen to me.




Then the birthday sparkles turn into a glowing mist as they flash up and around Odette's teen self.

Chase's gasp is heard throughout the room and he claps in anticipation of her young adult transformation.

I don't have the heart to tell him that birthday age ups in active households have no more control over hideous hair and inappropriate outfits than townie birthdays.

There are some things that even a Watcher can't control.

Fix yes. Control no.

And though you can't see her, that green plumbob belongs to Zoe, the cat, who appears to be thinking about pumpkins.

Like most felines, especially one who is a witch's familiar, Halloween is a favorite holiday.




But I digress, as this event is neither about Halloween nor Zoe, the cat!

Though she steps around Chase and gives him a startled look when he blows his party horn loudly at the first sight of his now young adult girlfriend.

With Odette standing before us proudly with her hands on hips and looking quite pleased with herself.

I've seen worse age up outfits and hair, but lets go in for a closer look and congratulate our birthday girl and new heir!




"Happy Birthday, Odette! I can't believe you're a young adult already, the time has gone by so fast!"

"It has Watcher, so fast that I never thought I'd feel brave or confident when the time came, but I was wrong, everything turned out perfectly."

"Perfectly? I know the hair and outfit aren't bad, but I'm sure we could do better."

"I'm not talking about my hair or my clothes, those things can be changed easily. I'm talking about having my family here, and Chase, and about getting the best trait ever. Dad was right, it's all about perspective, and feeling, mostly feeling."

"Does that mean what I think it means?"

"Yes, Watcher, I'm Artistic now! And I chose Master of the Arts as my Lifetime Wish! I'll get to put two of my traits to use as I work hard to master both painting and guitar."

"Well, that is quite the surprise. We have another artist in the family."

Her face loses some of it's cheer as she says, "You sound disappointed Watcher. I thought you'd be happy for me."

"I am happy Odette. I'm glad you got such a positive trait. But, I'll admit, I'm a little disappointed that you didn't get Rock Star or Leader of the Free World as choices, we've never got to try either one of those careers."

"Those would have been good too, but I'm really happy that I've inherited the Artistic trait from dad and grandpa Samuel!"

"Then you're right, if you're happy with it, then everything did turn our perfectly."




I would have loved to work on Odette's hair and clothes, especially after seeing those sandals on her ice white feet with those red leggings and that green and gold coat, dress, thing.

But the birthday festivities must go on, so Chase goes next as Odette's guest and boyfriend.

He happily agreed to the joint party as having a girlfriend older than him might sound like fun, but in reality it's pretty boring, the only couple thing they can do is take a romantic photo together.

So he opted to age up a few days early.

The guests have moved on from party horns to twirling noise makers, with Odette, Lorelei, and Eric taking the lead there.

Poor Nathan looks a little lost amongst the teens and older adults.

But once he notices the fourth cake, I have a feeling he'll perk up.




I was right, both Chase and Nathan are more than happy to be celebrating their birthdays today.

Nathan sees the fourth cake and gets all excited, while Chase claps and shouts as the current birthday boy.

I see Eric totally focused on Chase and I'm hoping it's all about him being happy for Chase on his birthday and not that he's plotting another nasty fairy trick.

Though Odette has suddenly turned serious and is watching Chase with quite the sober look.




And with the sparkles gone the cheering gets louder, Chase poses for us, and Odette's happily blowing a party horn, along with cousin David and surprisingly, Cinda, who I thought would have escaped to the basement by now.

I'm sure if she'd hadn't been focused on Chase and blowing a party horn, she would have called me on that comment.

She usually does!

And I share Lorelei's excitement as she looks on Chase's color choice with approval.

I know her so well, I'm pretty sure she's thinking how nice he looks in orange!

By the look on his face, I think he's happy with his grown up new young adult self too.




Then all eyes swivel back to the table as David stands before his cake.

Cinda keeps blowing her party horn, while David's sister, Mahlia, twirls a noise maker.

Ella adds her own birthday cheers to this third celebration.




David makes his wish, the sparkles overtake him, and the crowd goes wild!

Okay, I admit it, that sounds like I'm refereeing the big game.

But look at the excitement of all his family, Odette and Michael cheering, Mahlia and Lorelei blowing party horns, Rory clapping so hard he's got his eyes squeezed shut.

And I do believe Nathan is laughing and jeering like all inappropriate sims do at birthday parties.

Founder Jared would be so proud!




And when David stands before us hands on hips, looking so much like his mother, Dahlia, and showing off his not half-bad clothes and keeping his teen hair, I have to ask.

"So what trait did you get and what lifetime wish? I'm sure everyone wants to know!"

The family starts yelling, "Yes, we do! Tell, tell!"

And in their excitement Lorelei puts her arm through her granddaughter's chest!

But no one notices, not even said granddaughter, as all eyes and ears are focused on David, who says, with just the tiniest bit of a smirk, "I think it was seeing Zoe right before the party, because I got Cat Lover! And my life's goal is to reach maximum influence with all social groups!"

"Wow, that's some goal David! I've never tried that with any sim before. Do you think you can do it?"

With a casual shrug that makes him even more handsome, he says, "I'm friendly, irresistible, and I love cats, plus I love watching tv and movies, and I always stay appropriately dressed. I'm thinking with all those traits put together, I've got a really good shot at it!"

"That's the spirit. And with a smart girlfriend like Norma Picard by your side, the sky's not even the limit!"

David sighs and says, "I know that's another Star Trek reference Watcher. Please stop. I have a sense of humor but that's not even remotely funny."




With my joke falling flat, it's a tough crowd that's for sure, it's time for our last birthday boy.

Last, but not least, as becoming a teen is an important event.

So Nathan grabs a stool and hops up to be at cake level.

Not wanting to be younger than his birth mates a moment longer, he quickly makes his wish and blows out the candles.




He hops off the stool and faces the crowd, clapping and cheering in his excitement.

But my eye is drawn again to that sparkly, booby-trapped sink that I first noticed when Chase was at his cake.

Rory's staring at it as well and seeing the nervous tapping of her foot, Ella's become aware of it too.

But thankfully, Nathan's closed his eyes and doesn't see their distracted stares.




And Nathan's sparkles pack such a wallop that he jumps at least a foot off the floor!

Everyone pauses at seeing this feat, not quite sure what to say or do.

The other birthday honorees, David, Chase, and Odette crowded together in stunned silence.

With even his Gramlei, Lorelei, stopping in mid-clap ready to lunge forward in case he falls.




No such mishap occurs, but the stunned look on his face when he realizes that he's not only got both feet planted firmly on the floor, but he's now a teen, is one to behold.

I take one look and nod approvingly, the hair's not bad, the clothes are decent enough, and I love his gray boots.

And with Nathan safely grounded and his teen self standing before them, the crowd resumes their birthday cheers and noise makers and party horns can be heard once again.




With last of the birthdays over, those who still want cake, grab slices and head for places to sit.

And only one of them gets stuck routing to cake, so not bad really.

Odette has taken up Cinda's task of calling me out though when she says, "Not bad unless you have a Watcher that totally disregards her new heir stuck to the floor!"

I frown and say, "I saw you, I was just making sure no one else was in a worse situation. You didn't even notice your Gramlei's arm through Mahlia's chest earlier!"

"Oh, well, my bad then." And she can't help a giggle as she adds, "But you got a picture right?!"

I can't help laughing myself at that point and say, "Of course, what kind of a Watcher do you think I am!?!"

Then I see Lorelei looking at all of the cakes with dismay, as even with a crowd this size, there's going to be plenty of leftovers.

Still chuckling, I whisper, "Maybe it'll get lost in the move."

"We can only hope Watcher. That's a lot of cake!"

Too late, I realize yet another one of my jokes is not appreciated, especially by someone with no sense of humor.




With all the parties over, and the only guest still around being Chase, I finally get a look at his clothes and do a double take.

The layered black and orange tank that had looked so nice at age up is paired with brown, two-toned pants that just cover his knees!

Between those pants and Odette's outfit, wow, time to hit the dresser, or in my case, stylist, as it's much more convenient.

But then I notice three things:
   1) Ella's wand making a circle of magic and not just a practice circle either;
   2) Odette cringing and waving Ella away, fear showing in every aspect of her tense body; and
   3) Chase rubbing his chin and looking concerned about what's going to happen next.

And so am I!

In my head I'm screaming, "That's my heir. Stop, Ella. Stop!"




Before I can say a word to Ella, make her stop, cancel her action, her spell, something, the circle of magic just fizzles out.

Odette stands there, even paler than normal, and Ella, her head downcast says, "It, it was supposed to be your birthday present, a lucky charm, but it didn't work. I'm sorry Odette, I didn't mean to hurt you. Are you okay?"

Her voice a little unsteady, Odette replies, "I think so, just a little tingly and chilled."

Chase had rushed over as soon as he realized Odette was in trouble, caught her eyes from a short distance away, and asked, "You're sure you're okay?  That looked like some intense magic. My cousin Jeremy told me that Ella had been trying to make friends with his dog Jasper, but he never mentioned she was a witch now!"

"She's not been one for very long, but she's cast the lucky charm spell before on both herself and mom, successfully. I just wasn't expecting it and it was so cold," she said unable to control the shiver that ran through her.

"Well, if you're sure you're okay?" And shooting a look at Ella, "Both of you? It's probably best if I head home.  Not to make light of what just happened, but these pants are just awful! And I want to find something better before I forget and wear this stunning outfit in public. It's getting dark and if I hurry, hopefully no will see me. Well, no one I know, or a reporter or anyone with a camera! Oh, this is so not looking good for me to go unnoticed."

Odette takes a deep breathe and says, "Actually, I'd like you to hang around. I wanted to talk with you about something important. And we can work on your clothes, I'm sure we have something around that would fit you. It is a bit hard to take you seriously in those pants."

Smiling now, Chase says, "I'm sure it is. I wanted to talk to you too. I'll call home and let them know I'll be here awhile longer."

Under her breathe, Odette whispers, "Forever. I hope."




The ghosts all came to visit and check out the new family member, Zoe, the cat.

And Ella now has two BBF's, her sister Odette, and her twin Eric, but will they count?

And we celebrated three young adult birthdays, along with a teen birthday, as Nathan needed to catch up with his siblings, Michael and Mahlia.

So the first born children of generation nine are now young adults!

Odette, our heir, and her cousin David, along with Odette's boyfriend, Chase Marks.

Ella had her birthday Lucky Charm spell fail when she tried it on Odette, so she's experienced a small set back in her exploration of magic.

But Odette and Chase have important things to discuss!

Will Odette confess her feelings and ask Chase to move in?

Will Chase share those feelings and accept?

Find out in Chapter 202: Young Adult Decisions
Coming soon.