A Girl's Garden--A Farmacy Story (COMPLETED)

[deedee_828]

As the tiny two-seater flies over the town, it's newest resident gets a bird's eye view of Aggie's Corner.

She's really looking forward to being part of a community, especially one encouraging new residents.

New residents who will need new homes, her specialty!

What luck that she received that invitation from Brina Dean just when she was at loose ends.



But she's sure the Dean's weren't expecting her to actually come to town.

Let alone build a place for an indefinite stay!

But build one she did, and not just any place, one that she designed herself.

One that's just a bit bigger than the Dean's original home here in Aggie's Corner!

She kept the same whimsical scarecrow though as he's such a part of the place, he's almost like family.



As she looks around her new property, a small smile curves her lips.

She's designed so many homes for sims in so many towns and now she gets to live in one of them.

Among her clients.

And maybe, just maybe, fitting in and making friends.

Becoming part of a community at last!



Across town, Jerad gets a call from Brina, telling him that she's just received a call from MrsFlynn who actually flew into town this morning!

Brina can't get away so she asks Jerad to meet up with Howard and go over and introduce themselves.

Jerad's surprised but knows he has to act fast, so he tells Brooke he's going into town to check on some things for the garden.



With the kids all at school and rain pouring outside, I decide to head into the bathroom and try out our new tub.

I know Jerad's up to something but a relaxing bubble bath sounds so wonderful, I decide not to worry about it.

I'm sure I'll worm it out of him soon!



As Jerad waits for his father-in-law, he can't stop thinking of how much all this rain will help the garden.



Once he's inside the house though, he realizes just how well off his in laws are.

The house is a showcase for the finer things in life.

Antique furniture, paintings, plants, everything is so perfectly neat and expensive!

It definitely reflects the personalities of both Howard and Murielle.

But seeing this place makes him feel a bit uncomfortable with the state of the farm.

Living in a place like this, it's no wonder Brooke's father wants to build them a new place!

And from what Brooke has told him, this is a definite step down from what her parents are used to.



But the big thing to remember is that he's the one that knows Brooke now.

What she wants out of life, what makes her happy, what they've done with the farm together.

So he gets that part out of the way, first thing.

Jerad: "I know I don't seem like much Mr. Swanson. And I've never had a high-powered desk job. Or any kind of job like that really. I was a photographer when I first came to town, and not making much money at all. I'm older than Brooke, but I wasn't much wiser when it came to making something of myself. But Brooke, she needed help with the farm, and I needed…well, I needed Brooke. She's made me the man I am today. The farm isn't much, I know that, and it's Brooke's really. But…"

Howard breaks in and stops Jerad, shaking his head, "You've done more for my girl than I could ever repay Jerad, including giving up your own name! And the children, our grandchildren! We never even dreamed Brooke would have one, let alone five! She was so flighty, so caught up in a fake world. One of our making I'm afraid. But she turned everything around after she got here, once she met you! Honestly, I don't think she could have done it on her own, not like the two of you have. And Murielle and I, we've never seen our daughter so happy. So don't think for one minute that we look down on you Jerad. You've done more for her than all the money in the world. So let's agree to be on level ground here. Both of us wanting what's best for Brooke!"

Jerad can't help but relax at his father-in-laws words and says, simply, "Agreed! Now let me tell you about my phone call from Brina Dean this morning. Not only has MrsFlynn agreed to come on board as the architect for our little project, she's actually here in town! Waiting to meet both of us."

Howard grins and says, "Well, then let's not keep her waiting too long!"



Both Howard and Jerad wait expectantly outside the door of the address Brina gave Jerad.

When the rain continues to pour down, Howard says, "It certainly rains a lot here! That old roof on the farmhouse, even if we replaced it, I'm not certain the rest of the place is sound enough to withstand it year after year. That's one of the reasons I thought a new build would be better."

Jerad nods in agreement and says, "The foundations not in the best shape either and I'm not sure how well additions would work with the place being so old now. And the place is pretty small for seven of us. And a cat. But I know I don't want anything fancy or expensive and neither would Brooke now."



And with that comment Jerad realizes Howard is just as frugal as he is.

Jerad smiles when he says that Brooke told him she was learning to budget from both of them, but he hadn't realized they both shared the trait.

It closes the gap between them even more as they're both perfectionists too!

And upon spotting the new visitor, Jerad exclaims with delight, "Howard, you won't believe this, but this woman is actually the fairy that changed our fortune!"



Then Jerad recites the tale of the fairy's good luck spell and ends with their winning lottery ticket.

Howard is skeptical but Jerad assures him it's true that whether it was the fairy's lucky spell or just plain luck, they won $100,000!

The fairy chimes in with, "I'm adding that part to my story for the paper as it will definitely sell a lot more copies! That's it Mr. Swanson, hold that pose right there!"

Then she happily snaps away, photo after photo, so she can write her career making story.

When she's finished, Jerad says, "So the best part of this is that we can actually afford the new build ourselves which is what will sell this whole plan to Brooke! But we still have to keep it within a reasonable budget and size. The hardest part will be convincing her to tear down the old place. She's rather attached to it."

Howard nods and comments, "I've been thinking about that too, and I'm not so sure I want to do that either. It does have some sentimental value even after all these years. So I was thinking maybe we could show MrsFlynn some original photos of the farm and maybe have her replicate it, making sure it's big enough for all of you now, but has room for additions later on, plus add her own special touches of course. And something Summer would really enjoy as it will be hers after her birthday. I'd like to contribute to that part, as her present. Nothing extravagant, farmhouse simplicity and charm, as it's what MrsFlynn does best!"



And as if on cue, the mention of her name has our dear architect coming out to greet her new clients!

MrsFlynn says cheerily, "Good morning, gentlemen. I'm Mysti Renée Samantha Flynn to be precise, but that was always such a mouthful, I just shortened it to my initials, MRS, which someone mistakenly took for Mrs on one of my first designs and MrsFlynn was born!"

She nods saying, "You must be Jerad, the amazing gardener Brina's told me so much about. How you and your wife, Brooke, with no experience at all, took on the job of renovating an entire farm. One that was neglected and only growing weeds for years!"

And with a look at Howard, "And you must be Brooke's father, the financial wizard, Howard Swanson. I've read about you in magazines of course, but never dreamed I'd ever be working with such a celebrity."

Both men stare at her nonplussed.

They'd never imagined a builder/architect with such a reputation being so young.

Or so friendly and chatty! (If only they new what a cover up it was for her shyness around strangers)

Howard manages to say, "My celebrity pales in view of your own MrsFlynn. I'm only known in the financial world by a few other businessmen. You are known throughout Sim towns far and wide for your wonderfully creative designs and most of all for houses that become charming, one-of-a-kind homes."



Mysti blushes and chatters on, "How kind of you to say Mr. Swanson. And it's so nice of you both to agree to meet with me on such short notice. I was disappointed that Brina wasn't available, but I'm sure our meeting will be very productive. In fact, I must confess that I've been listening in on your conversation. Sometimes clients get a little tongue-tied or overwhelmed meeting home designers for the first time, so I like to hear them discuss what they want without my presence influencing that. And I like what I'm hearing! Recapturing the essence of an original farmhouse, but giving it some character all of it's own. Making it big enough right now, but not too big, for seven people and a cat, but with room to expand in future generations. I'm eager to get started. Jerad why don't you head inside and check out the website I have up that shows a variety of my designs and I'll just chat with Mr. Swanson and get his take on the feel of the original farmhouse."

Jerad eagerly heads inside and leaves his father-in-law with the young woman they both have no doubt is about to change their lives.



Howard shows her a photo of a huge gaudy farmhouse no self-respecting farmer or gardener would ever live in.



Mysti, unprepared to view such an architectural horror, leaps back in total disgust!

Howard quickly apologizes and says with a laugh, "That's exactly what we don't want! I'm glad we agree from the start on that."

Mysti, still shuddering, says, "And I thought I made people feel awkward. Mr. Swanson, please remove it from your screen!"

Puzzled Howard says, "Awkward?!? You are the most delightful and refreshing young woman I have ever met!"



Stunned by Howard's comment, Mysti can only say in amazement, "Me? Delightful? Refreshing?"

Howard responds with, "Of course you MrsFlynn! Someone as creative and talented as yourself, at your young age, to be able to discern others reactions to themselves, to put them at ease by being so open, honest, and friendly. It's a rare talent. Almost as rare as your artistic ability."

Mysti can only stare at him, drinking in his words.

She's never felt so at ease with someone, especially a client.

She's usually tongue-tied and overwhelmed, characteristics she'd attributed to her previous clients, as that's how she usually feels at first meetings.

But she'd promised herself she wouldn't be like that here, in this new town.

A fresh start was what she'd promised herself and Howard Swanson was giving it to her so easily!

At the thought, she smiled back at him.



Howard returns her smile and continues, "Speaking of art, MrsFlynn, I was hoping you would use some old farm prints, vintage signs, old-fashioned framed photo collages, that sort of thing in Brooke's house. There used to be some in the old place, and I know I have a few bits and pieces in storage, but if you could find others to incorporate into the design, I think it would give it just the right personal touch your homes are so well known for. Nothing expensive, mind you, as Brooke will know. If she learned nothing else in her former life, she learned expensive! So will you take us on MrsFlynn and make my daughter her not too expensive dream farm?"

MrsFlynn decides to break her own cardinal rule and says, "I can only take on the project if you consent to one thing Mr. Swanson, you must call me Mysti!"

Howard's smile grows even broader as he says, "Only if you call me Howard. If we're going to be working closely together throughout this project, and I hope we are, then we need to dismiss the formality on both sides."

And on that note, they head into her house to see how Jerad's doing.



Inside, Jerad is eagerly scrolling through the amazing homes on MrsFlynn's website.

Some small for newly married couples, others larger for families, and some truly magnificent ones that could only be for the truly wealthy.

But in all of the homes he notices one cohesive factor. They all fit their surroundings perfectly!

Whether a vacation home by the seashore, a cabin in the mountains, or a farmhouse in the country, each one exudes a special charm and earthiness.

This is the builder that will make Brooke's dream farm a reality!



And before the Swanson men can even head to their respective homes, Mysti's creative process has already taken over!

She mumbles something that sounds like, "bye", but immediately picks up her graphite pencil and begins drawing.

Jerad and Howard quietly let themselves out not wanting to disturb an artist at work with what they both hope will be the future Swanson Family Farm.



When Mysti is done looking over all of Howard's photos of the farm, from the original one he gave Brooke.




To the way it looked when Brooke arrived.



And in it's current transformation with all of Jerad's hard work.



And the extensive garden brought to life with Brooke's and Jerad's sweat and determination, along with the helping hands of their five children.

Throughout the seasons, for which their daughters, Summer, Autumn, and Winter were named.

Even in the rain, for which their 2nd daughter Rayne was named!

And including their only son, Carter, the lone boy, their loner and fisherman.



The new home will have a main floor with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths between when fully completed.

A large playroom for the younger children, with a rocker and bookcase for quieter moments, that may be a formal living room one day.

A kitchen and separate entry with a large hallway with the nooks and crannies that all the best farmhouses have.

And the 2nd floor, empty for now, but knowing in time that it too will feel the running feet of Swanson children.

It's walls hear the laughter as they run and play, or listen to the dreams of future children.

A front porch for soothing rocks in the evenings and a back porch for laundry during wet weather.



Incorporating all of Howard's thoughts and feelings of the place when he was a boy and a young man, as well as his pride in all that his daughter and her family have accomplished now.

Here is her rendition of the exterior of the Swanson Family Farm, truly a masterpiece of design and vision!

The garden now and with room to grow by the covered wagon and restored wind mill, with hay waiting for munching horses and a small area for beehives to harvest honey and honeycombs.

And just waiting to be built by future generations,
   1) horse stalls in the left back corner with a barn and paddocks in time
   2) a beautiful pond for fishing in the right back corner of the lot with
   3) A wedding arch just waiting for future Swanson brides and grooms
   4) An open space for cows and
   5) Chicken coops

And anything else the Swanson generations may decide to turn their hands too.

Brooke's dream home and farm!



MrsFlynn not only took on the surprise build project for Brooke, but she moved to town!

And it's time for Summer and Autumn's birthdays.

Autumn will become a teen and start high school.

Summer will reach young adulthood!

It doesn't seem possibly that our little Summer will be graduating and we'll be the parents of three teens and a YA soon!

Join me for this auspicious event in Chapter 23: Double Birthday
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

Very Nice Dee! I love the name you gave to Mrs Flynn!

[deedee_828]

Thank you. But MrsFlynn picked out her names herself!

First the Mysti part, then the 'R' and 'S' names for her middle names.

Since her last name was Flynn, I originally went with Welsh/Irish/Gaelic names, Raichael Siobhan, which is pronounced RA-hehl Shavonne.

But Mysti does NOT identify as any specific nationality and went with names she loves, Renée Samantha, much easier to remember and pronounce, as well as spell!

And hopefully, she'll be changing her last name soon as she has found a love interest! One that came as a complete surprise to me!

[Sonshine]

Very cool! I love the name Misty!

[deedee_828]

Summer went over to Brandy Rios' home after school and started strumming a guitar.

The same one Jerad used at the party we attended there after Summer's scouts award ceremony.

She looks as happy as her father did when he picked it up and played his first awful notes!

I can honestly say I was glad I wasn't there to listen.

Once she's got a few skill points under her belt, I'll be the first one dancing, you can bet on that!

Oh, a guitar for her next birthday, that sounds like a great gift.

It's nice to have some extra funds to give special gifts to the children now.

And with a shock I realize it's coming up fast, it seemed like she just started school and now she'll be graduating!



I'm sure Carter would have loved to have gone to visit Brandy with Summer, but after a long crowded day at school, he prefers some alone time at home.

Today he chose to continue reading our cookbook while enjoying a relaxing rock in the playroom.

It's his sisters' bedroom too, of course, but it's empty for now, so he's enjoying the solitude.



The younger girls are both still at school, so I take a moment to chat with Rayne.

In the rain, of course.

Daddy's right to be concerned about our roof.

Patching it is only a temporary fix, and constant battering with rain and snow doesn't help it at all.

But my concern at the moment is with my second daughter and her behavior over the weekend.

Being with her friends, is a good thing, but not letting us know where she is, and then making plans on her sister's big night, well, those choices are just not acceptable.

I explain this to Rayne and she agrees with me, nodding and apologizing the whole time.

Then we get to the heart of the matter, both figuratively and literally, as Rayne confesses that she really likes the new boy she met, Johnny Rhoen.

And she asks if he can come over so we can meet him.

I'm all for that, as I really want to meet him, but I want Jerad to meet him too, and he's still out.

So I tell her she can invite him over but to remember it's a school night and she still has homework.



Turns out Johnny has a part-time job after school (I'm liking him more already), and could only stop in for a few minutes on his way home.

But Rayne and Johnny make the most of their time together, chatting about school, family, and just getting to know one another.

I try not to be the overprotective mother, but I find myself peeking out my bedroom window way more than usual!

And mumbling under my breathe, "not so close you two!"



After dinner, the girls all grab homework and settle down at our new kitchen table.

It's so nice to finally have enough seating for everyone.

While I chat with Jerad to see what he's been up to all day!

But before I can start, Summer shocks us both by saying, "What are your feelings on the Grim Reaper?"



Then, when I realize it's a question from her Philosophy homework, and not the state of her young teenage mind, I'm relieved and seriously think about it.

Jerad totally ignores the question and focuses on laundry as being the coward he is, questions like that really unnerve him, especially since his elder birthday.

I respond with, "My immediate thought is of death and loss. And as you age it becomes something you draw closer to. For some it means a release from pain and suffering, for others a time to be reunited with other loved ones they've lost. But it means something different to everyone and every sim deals with it in different ways, though the stages of grief are pretty universal."

Summer scratches her head thinking hard and says, "I just read that part a few pages back. Let me see if I can remember them all. Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and….Acceptance! That's all five!"

I commend Summer, but give the older girls a look so they realize they are speaking with their sisters' listening intently, youngsters who may be frightened by the topic we're discussing.

Rayne takes the hint and says, "Wow, good to know I've got a brainy sister with all that completed homework!"

Summer laughs and says, "Dream on little sister! You'll have to work for good grades just like I did. No checking my old books for notes or copying off my old homework!"

Rayne laughs at her sister's teasing and says, "It was worth a shot!"

The younger girls join in the laughter and I smile as the atmosphere has been lightened from the potentially disturbing topic. 



Though with this look I see Winter give Summer moments later, I'm not sure we were totally successful in alleviating the younger girls fears.



But something does take everyone's mind off the subject as Summer sees Kobe walking across the kitchen.

A very fat Kobe! No, not fat, expecting!

And she gleefully says, "I think Kobe's going to have kittens!"

Kobe, well aware of the fact, I'm sure, just purrs and enjoys all the attention we've focused on her.



The next morning I go and visit the Dean's as we've been so busy, I want to catch up on all of Brina's news.

And share mine , of course. Especially about Kobe having kittens.

We've not seen many pets around town, so it's definitely big news.



But not as big as Brina's and George's news, as they've added another daughter to their family, Sammi!

So the Dean's have five children now, just like me and Jerad.

Nolan, Nikki, and Harmony, who are all teens, Nathan who's just started school, and now little Sammi.

George looks at her with such love as he feeds her a bottle, I know he feels just like I did about Winter, how precious that last little one is.

Though the Dean's may surprise us and have more children! You never know!



I congratulate Brina on their new daughter and we share all the usual nooboo stories.

We chat about Summer and Nolan both graduating soon and our eyes go wide as we realize we'll both be the mother's of young adults.

I tell Brina my fears about Rayne and she says Nikki was like that too, all wrapped up in clothes and boys when she became a teen, but with an extra edge of defiance.

So much so that she declared herself an emancipated minor and moved out on her own!

I try to hide my shock as Brina stoically says that it's been rough having her leave, but actually a lot more peaceful in the house without her disruptive influence.

Both her and George have been checking up on her, making sure she's got food and that she's safe.

Nolan and Harmony visit at her place too.

It's small, just big enough for one, but Nikki seems to be handling things well, staying in school, holding down a part-time job.

In fact, Brina tells me Nikki seems closer to family members now that she's out on her own and doesn't have to deal with everyone every day.

I put on a brave face for Brina's sake, but my heart aches to think of a teenager being out on their own.



Then a family event distracts me from such sober thoughts.

Winter's ballet recital! She looks so precious in her tutu, tights, and ballet slippers!



Even mother made it, dressed to impress, of course!

She met us at the school, thrilled to see her youngest granddaughter's big moment!



We all attended as Summer was so close to graduation she quit her part-time job.

She'll be so busy tending to the farm though that she won't have time for that!

A lot more hands helping her than Jerad and I had, as the whole family will still be pitching in.



When we get home it's late, and time for a double birthday!

Autumn goes first, happily standing in front of her cake, making her wish, and blowing out the candles.

While her siblings all blow noise makers, cheering loudly, as we all do at birthday parties.



Then we all watch in horror as the cake catches fire and burns to a crisp!

Jerad and I make really derpy faces at the cake for some unknown reason.

The smell perhaps?

I wrinkle my nose and Jerad's eyes almost cross!



Summer graciously offers her cake to her younger sister, who's almost in tears.

We assure Autumn it wasn't her fault and encourage her to blow out the candles on the second cake.

But she's too nervous, wondering if this one's going to become a torch next!

To add insult to injury, a fairy fireman comes bursting through the door, scans the room, and since we'd already taken care of the incinerated cake, charges us $500 simoleans for making a fake fire call!

I try to explain it was just a cake fire and that we quickly put it out ourselves, but all I get is a stern look not to abuse the emergency systems! The nerve!



We finally get back on track, cheering for Autumn, when Summer shimmers and sparkles!



And Summer becomes a young adult!

Well, at least someone's aged up on this odd birthday night.

And it kept her cute short hairstyle with her hat, but gave her a party dress!

I don't think I'll ever understand birthday or aging up fashion, ever.



But Summer, our family-oriented, new young adult, graciously steps aside so Autumn can have her birthday.

Maybe.

Autumn tries a third time, or is it fourth? It's been so messed up none of us even knows anymore!



And finally the sparkles appear and Autumn becomes a teen adding Artistic to her traits!

But the hair and clothes fairies must have been laughing themselves silly on this one!

Instead of Rayne being happy for her sister though, she looks like she's about to cry.



But we find out the reason soon enough.

Rayne's family-oriented too, and the loss of another child to the teen years makes her sad.

I'm glad she couldn't see my face when she burst out with, "I'm always going to have a baby in my house. I want at least a dozen kids!"

But I'm facing Summer, who smiles and agrees a bit more mildly, "A house full of kids is a great idea, but with all of you still needing to grow up, I can wait a bit for mine!



I blanche again as I realize my two oldest daughters are discussing having babies!

My grandchildren, in fact.

But I'm with Jerad on being a coward on this topic, for now at least, so I help Autumn with a new hairstyle and birthday outfits.

She picks a hairstyle that's a bit longer with a layered cut that emphasizes her cheekbones.

And I surprise her with this everyday look.

A cute brown and pink skirt, with a white tank and pink sleeveless shrug with cute white sandals.



A hot pink formal with matching heels from her Mimi.

Which she looks way too old in!

I agree with Rayne, I miss Autumn's childhood already!



The next morning in the garden, I ask Jerad if he's feeling old with a young adult daughter and three teens in the house now.

His answer was to grab me, dip me, and kiss me soundly!

So I guess he's not feeling old at all, my hopeless romantic teddy bear!

We used the time the kids were in school quite wisely, if I do say so myself!

Though I looked at Jerad with alarm when he said, "Maybe Rayne will get a baby in the house after all!"



With Winter's ballet recital, followed by a double birthday, I'm almost partied out!

I almost bite my tongue when those words pop into my head.

But with the birthday cake catching on fire, and the snarky fireman fining us, it was a long , long, day.

So long that Summer agreed to wait for her makeover, wardrobe, and bio as the new heir!

Yes, it's official, Summer's going to be the Swanson heir and take over the farm after graduation.

And if that smirk on Jerad's face is anything to go by, he's either hoping I'm expecting or that mysterious surprise he's working on with daddy is almost ready.

I'm not sure which option has me more concerned!

But you'll find out as soon as I do in Chapter 24: Our Family Grows
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

Very nice! Her family is almost grown up now.

[deedee_828]

Even though our last harvest was interrupted with a romantic interlude, we still had lots of produce to consign, so I made my way over to the elixir store.

When I saw daddy there talking to a tourist, I finished my business quickly, so we could chat.



I was so happy to see him out and about.

Still dressed up and looking so dapper like he just came from the office, but change takes time.

Something I'm very well aware of!

Then we chat excitedly about Summer becoming a YA and Autumn entering her teen years.

I even try to wheedle out of him what he and Jerad are up to but daddy just smiles and acts like he doesn't know what I'm talking about!



After school, Rayne shows she was really listening to what I said during our little chat, because she calls and lets us know she's going to stay at school to work on her homework.



Autumn came straight home but brought a new friend with her, Jamey Rios.

They chatted together getting to know one another, but not doing anything to set off parental alarms!



Then I notice Summer outside playing with Kobe.

Still in her hat and party dress!

She's been patient but I know it's time for her new YA look.



She decides that she wants a longer hairstyle and chooses to go with this very flattering side ponytail, with longer bangs and wispy tendrils framing the other side of her face.

Summer is such a great mix of both me and Jerad, along with her own unique personality.

Summer Swanson--young adult human
LTW: The Cat Herder (befriend 15 cats)!!!
Career: Homemaker
Traits: Loves the Outdoors, Friendly, Family-Oriented, Cat Person, and at YA, Good
Skills at age up: Athletic-1; Charisma-3; Cooking-3, Fishing-3, Gardening-1
BF: Nolan Dean



She hurriedly picks out all of her outfits, showing off her new everyday look, as she continues playing with Kobe.

Both of them really enjoy their time together and Summer is determined to complete her LTW.

Though I'm skeptical she'll have that much free time to make friends with 15 cats!

She's only got one so far with Kobe, but she's positive she can find the time.

And I questioned her choice of career, but she said that someone has to do the housework and take care of the family, so she might as well get paid for that.

I can't fault that logic! If I'd been paid to cook and clean, it might have helped our household funds in those early days when we really needed the money.



But both Summer's and Kobe's attention is caught by a boisterous game of tag between Winter and her school friend Michael Gallo, who by the wings, is at least a fairy.

There are a lot of occults in town, many of them multiple hybrids like the paparazzi that cast that Lucky spell on Jerad.

She's a fairy, witch, vampire!

But Agnes Crumplebottom's accepted everyone willing to work hard to improve the town.

And it's brought all Sims together, human and occult, with our community being all the better for it.



But acceptance isn't the same as seeing someone transform into an occult.

As the full moon appeared, I heard several screams from inside the house!

By the time I got inside though, everyone was acting normally again.

And sitting their calmly doing homework with Autumn was Jamey Rios in his werewolf form!

My first motherly thought is that it must be tough keeping werefolk in clothes if Jamey's shirt is anything to go by.

Followed quickly by wondering just how attached Autumn may be to Jamey as she'll certainly have her work cut out for her with little werechildren!



After playing tag with Michael, Winter wanted to spend some time fishing, but she followed through on her promise to finish her homework first.

I must say, for the most part, our kids have been pretty easy to raise.

Doing their homework, being careful about curfew, and not abusing driving privileges.



And as is typical, Kobe gives birth in the middle of the night, to one lone male kitten, which we name Flynn in honor of his father!

Rembrandt Flynn belongs to a new resident in town that just moved here recently.

Now we all know where Kobe's been spending her time!

Summer's the first one to meet little Flynn and she dances with joy at having another cat to be friends with.

But little Flynn is tired after the effort of being born and needs some sleep before play time.



Summer shares the new kitten news with all of us as we stumble into the kitchen, roused from our beds with Kobe's yowling.

But realizing why Kobe was being so loud, we all smile, check out the new kitten and head back to bed.



Rested and ready for playtime, Flynn and Summer get to know one another.

I have a feeling she'll make friends easily with Flynn but that still leaves 13 other cats to befriend!

Summer's certainly got her work cut out for her taking care of the house, the garden, and working on her LTW.

And that's even before adding a husband and children to the mix!



Something that I know has been on Summer's mind now that Nolan's a young adult too!

With her being heir and family-oriented, it's no surprise really that she'd be thinking about it.

But I'm hoping she goes the more traditional route and gets married first!

That thought gives me pause as I realize Jerad and I having Summer first, before we wed, probably made daddy and mother a bit nervous too.



But then Jerad takes all thoughts of Summer, marriage, and babies from my mind as he says he needs to tell me something important.

That with Summer's YA birthday and heirship, it's time to let me in on the secret.



I tell him something special for me is not necessary as I've lost all interest in expensive clothes and jewels.

That I treasure much simpler things now, a healthy, happy family, being at the top of my list.

And our garden's bringing in good money so we can splurge on the children now and then, for birthdays and special occasions.



Jerad says that he'd like to give me anything and everything in the world to show how much I mean to him.

And I tell him he already has!

Himself, our love, our children. Those are the things that mean the world to me now.



He pulls me close and says that he'll save the surprise then, make it a surprise for Summer as the new heir.

I love that idea but knowing that my surprise can be so easily transferred to Summer has me curious.

So I ask him.

But Summer surprised us both by popping into the kitchen to play with Flynn.

Jerad was saved by a kitten!



Later that day we have lots of visitors.

Summer invited Nolan over looking very handsome in his uniform.

And daddy and mother came both dressed very casually.

I think they're adjusting to the more laid back spirit of Aggie's Corner faster than I did.

But they also brought a friend along, one I didn't recognize, a pretty young woman who kept looking thoughtfully at our house.



Daddy comes inside and I greet him with a hug.

It's been such a long time since we'd hugged like that. It really felt good being so close again.

Daddy must have felt the same way as I did because he held on for a long time!



Summer focuses on Nolan as this is the first time they've been together since their YA birthdays.

She tells him about Kobe having a kitten, so the Dean's cat Tigress is now a grankitty!



But then their conversation takes a more romantic turn and she tells him that she loves him.

And then she asks him to move in!



Nolan doesn't hesitate to accept, telling her he loves her too, and they hold each other close.

This is a serious step in their relationship and one I'd thought Summer would discuss with us first.

But she's a young adult now, the Swanson heir, and I need to let go of the apron strings!



They both chat excitedly about all the plans they have for the garden and the house.

All the things they want to do together.

But then Summer notices Nolan is ready to drop on his feet!

He's been up since before dawn at his new job.



Sweet Summer, ever the caretaker with her friendly, family-oriented, and good traits, brings Nolan inside to his new room.

She tells him they've got all the time in the world to discuss their future plans, but what he needs now is sleep.

Nolan would have liked to disagree but he can barely keep his eyes open, so he just laughs and says, "So it's you who'll be wearing the pants in the family, Miss Bossy!"

Summer laughs and says, "Even in a swimsuit I rule your little world, Mr. Dean! So off to bed!"



Our family's grown larger today with Kobe having her kitten, Flynn.

And Summer having Nolan join the family!

So the house is full with eight of us now and Kobe and her kitten make 10.

Me and Jerad as Founders.

Summer and Nolan Dean as the new heirs.

And all of Summer's siblings, Carter, Rayne, and Autumn all still teens, and Winter still a child.

But both Carter and Winter have birthdays coming up.

On the same day again, so another double birthday for us!

Will we make it through them without another cake catching on fire?

Let's find out in Chapter 25: A Whirlwind of Parties
Coming soon

[deedee_828]

Please click on the thumbnails for a larger photo

My first event is a pool party at the Dean's house.

I'm so excited I can't resist a party, "Woo, woo" as I step into the house.



First thing I do is share pictures of Kobe and Rembrandt's kitten, Flynn, with Brina.

Brina is happy to see that their Tigress has another generation in her line in town.



But Brina's big news is that Sammi's had her first birthday and is now a toddler!

One who has Brina's hair, just like her older sister Nikki.

And she looks adorable in her swimsuit that matches her hair color!



Then I confess my worries to Brina about our old farmhouse.

How it really needs a new roof, but that really won't help the condition of the old walls and foundation.

Brina agrees that those are definite concerns but her smile has me wondering if she knows more than she's letting on.



After we catch up on each others news, I thank her for inviting me to the party and tell her how great it is to go to one I haven't planned.

Brina tells me that me and my family are always at the top of their guest list, their first friends in town, but more like family, which we'll soon be!



That makes both of feel so good we share a hug and promise to keep in touch, no matter how busy we both are.



Then it's time for Winter's birthday!

I cheer along with the rest of our family, though I'm shocked that our youngest is becoming a teen already.

The time has just flown by and we're at the end of Week 6, Day 7, Saturday.



And here's teen Winter, looking so much like her father but with my hair color.

She chose Natural Cook as her new trait and I'm thrilled.

Finally someone with some natural cooking skill to start making delicious meals for us.



Those who are interested grab a piece of cake.

And I catch Autumn's eye as she motions that someone needs a different hairstyle.



So it's off to Stylist for Nolan.

He looked so handsome in his military uniform, he decides on a much shorter cut and keeps the camo style for his athletic wear.

Introducing, Nolan Dean---young adult human
LTW: Become an Astronaut
Career: Military
Traits: Hates the Outdoors, Supernatural Skeptic, Athletic, Easily Impressed, and Heavy Sleeper
Skills at move in: Charisam-2; Gardening-1, Logic-5
GF: Summer Swanson



With our increased income and lottery winnings, we no longer have to depend on care packages from mother.

Or open gifts from Jerad with apprehension as we wonder what horrors the Thrift Shop has provided this time!

So Nolan gets the honor of choosing some stylish formalwear.



With that taken care of, we continue with the birthday party.

Next up is Carter's YA birthday!

He looks so excited this lone son of ours, as does Jerad!

Seeing their happiness makes everything we've endured so worth it.



And when the sparkles finish and the family's all cheering, our son gets his first taste of adulthood.

Introducing, Carter Swanson---young adult human
LTW: Perfect Aquarium
Career: Angler
Traits: Loves the Outdoors, Loner, Bookworm, Angler, and at YA Hopeless Romantic (like his father)
RI: None (yet)



Then Winter decides she's waited long enough for her teen makeover.

She chooses an easy care hair style in twin pigtails tied with green ribbons that match her t-shirt and the cuffs of her gray denim capris.

And tops off the whole look with a matching cropped jacket and comfortable flats, for long days in the garden and by the stove.



Then I get a call from mother and daddy asking us to stop in for a visit.

Now that I've got them in town, I'm not passing up this chance to spend time with them, so we head over to their new home.

Mother takes my hand in hers as I walk into the house and gives it a loving squeeze, while both daddy and Jerad give us tender looks.

Both daddy and Jerad are so happy that I've been able to reconnect with my family.

We settle in for a nice family chat and my heart fills with joy to have both of them back in my life.



Back at the house, Carter's decided to invite one of his teen friends over, Brandy Rios.

And they've surprised her with a cake!



After her birthday sparkles disappear, she's even prettier, if that's possible.

And Carter looks concerned about his plain old clothes.



So he heads for a dresser and picks out something a bit more his style.

Some lighter faded jeans and a shirt with his trademark pink.



And after a quick run through the sprinkler, he starts talking to Brandy in earnest.

First asking her sign.

She tells him she's a Leo which isn't a compatible sign, but he perseveres.



Asking her if she's single.

And finding out she's got a boyfriend and not happy at all that he even asked!

Doesn't look like this relationship is going to pan out for our hopeless romantic.



But another couple is having a lot more fun together as Summer and Nolan enjoy a romantic moment.



Then I see Rayne with Johnny.

But she's introduced Carter to Mysti Flynn.

And to my complete surprise they both like what they see, immediately stepping closer to each other!



So much so that within a few moments, Mysti's giving Carter flowers.

Pink ones, Carter's favorite color!

And Carter accepts them giddily, breathing in deeply of their scent.



When Rayne returns, Carter and Mysti are deep in conversation, so Rayne can turn her own attention to Johnny.

Summer wanders by and she's thinking that her dear brother may have found his soulmate at last!



With all the parties done, I'm now the mother of two young adults and three teens!

But something has happened that's a bit of a surprise.

Something that Rayne and Summer were only too happy to share with me.

That Carter and Mysti Flynn met and had an instant connection.

And something that we were expecting hasn't happened at all, graduation!

Is the town so new, that they aren't going to hold graduation ceremonies?

And now that Summer's a young adult and Nolan's moved in, I'm more anxious than ever to find out what my, well, her, surprise is!

Join me in Chapter 26: Summer's Surprise
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

What a nice surprise to find Carter and Mysti connecting so fast! Are there wedding bells in the future for them? Of course very happy for Rayne and Johnny also!  Curious though, do you pronounce her name rain or rainee? Once upon a time, I worked w/a girl whose name was pronounced rainee.

[deedee_828]

It really was as I'd been planning on creating a sim for her to fall in love with, maybe a much younger version of Howard, Brooke's dad. A nephew or something.

But before I got around to that, she met Carter and instant connection! One that I love really. They do continue their relationship, but with Carter out of the house, it's mostly at the mercy of NRAAS SP. Though I do tweak it now and again.

I pronounce it Rain, but unfortunately my typing is dyslexic and I am forever typing it as Ryane! (It doesn't help that I have a cousin Ryan, who is a girl!)

I named her that partly because of it raining so much in Aggie's Corner, and partly in memory of a dear HS friend who passed away last year, her name was Lorraine.

I should have just used Raine and not tried to be creative by changing the 'i' to a 'y', as it's been a nightmare for me to spell it correctly throughout the story.

[Sonshine]

No worries about your spelling! Rayne can be pronounced any way you want.

[deedee_828]

And I get an inkling of what it might be sooner than I expected.

The mysterious young woman that was brought to town is none other than MrsFlynn, the Dean's very creative and talented architect!

A surprisingly young woman who Rayne introduced to Carter with interest being shown by both parties.

I find her in the girl's bedroom and she introduces herself to me, saying that with everything she's heard about me from Brina, Jerad, and Howard, wait, what? She calls my father Howard?, she feels like she knows me already.



Then she whispers to me, "Don't worry Brooke, I'm taking everything into consideration and I think you'll love the end results. Ssshhh, don't want to say anything more and ruin Summer's surprise. Call me tomorrow if you have any additional requests."

I don't let on that I have no idea what she's talking about, but with MrsFlynn involved, um, Mysti, I know it has to be something to do with the house.

A surprise I'm now even more curious about!

But asking questions would give away that I'm still not in on the secret, so I hold my tongue, though it almost kills me to do so.



But the suspense is short-lived because soon after Mysti leaves, Jerad tells all of us to check out something outside.

Before I know what's going on, the whole family has left the house and I can hear screaming and yelling in the distance.

It's dark so I can barely see a thing as I follow after them.

I see a house in the dim light, but can't make out much more, until I catch up with Jerad by the front porch, which is all lit up.

My first thought is that it's so welcoming, having a covered front porch.

But when I see my family just walking inside, I'm mortified.

Haven't I taught them better manners than that!?!



But Jerad doesn't give me time to reprimand them as he quickly ushers me inside and they all shout, "Welcome Home Mom!"

Stunned, I stand in the entryway of a house just down the road from ours, a house that seems vaguely familiar, right down to the wallpaper of our own home!

I glance at Summer and her gentle smile lets me know she's been in on the surprise the whole time!

As I now realize has everyone in my family, along with my parents, the Dean's, and even Mysti!

They were all conspiring to make me think the surprise was now Summer's, when it was mine all along.



And then everyone's talking at once telling Jerad they did it, they kept the secret!

I step towards Jerad with a smile and say, "A whole new house? But what about the farm? All of our hard work?"

Jerad smiles and tells me the old farmhouse and garden are still mine.

But with the roof and foundation being what they were, the place just wasn't sound enough to add expansions to, to keep being a home for a large family.

Along with our pets.

Which is when I realize there are two pet bowls, one filled for Kobe, the other waiting for Flynn once he's weaned off his mother's milk.



It's getting late so Jerad suggests we all head off to our beds and explore our new home in the morning.

Before we head to our bedroom, he pulls me close and whispers in my ear, "Is this better than that romantic vacation somewhere warm?"

I smile and say, "Maybe… let's check out our new bedroom and find out!"

But by the look on Rayne's face, I must have said it a bit louder than I thought.

No one does disgust as well as a teenage girl!



First thing the next morning, most of us head outside and admire our new garden space, with it's well-laid-out plots, and orchard, all within a new sturdy fence.

The new plants here were all taken from cuttings or seeds from the garden at the old farm lot.

We weed and harvest, taking care of a task that's become part of our daily routine.



Then we get a call from City Hall telling us that their first graduating class is so unexpectedly large it took a few more days to plan than usual.

Summer happily dons her cap and gown that were delivered by express mail moments later and takes off for City Hall, eager to get her diploma.

But we're surprised when Nolan dons his as well.

Luckily, he was a bit slower than Summer, and Jerad was able to snap a photo.



And then we're even more shocked when Carter spins into his!

With the delay, several classes will be graduating today, Summer's, Nolan's, and Carter's!



We finally catch up to Summer at the steps of City Hall, and get her to stand still long enough for her photo.



Jerad was even quick enough to catch a shot of Summer throwing her diploma up in the air with a cheer.

So instead of being disappointed that Summer didn't get a graduation, we're filled with joy at our three new graduates!

Nolan passing and voted Most Likely To Be Mediocre by his classmates.
(Which I thought was rather rude, but typical of teens just becoming young adults and something I would have laughed at when I was that age)

Carter graduating with Highest Honors, and being voted Most Likely to Write a Best-Seller. ( A book on how to catch perfect fish perhaps?)

And Summer graduating at the top of her class and being Class Valedictorian and being voted Most Likely to Have a Large Family!

This announcement made both Summer and Nolan blush and my eyes open wide.

Though with the house full at the moment, I don't have to worry about grandchildren just yet.



But graduation was not the biggest event of the day.

As soon as their robes were off, Nolan dropped to one knee and proposed to Summer!

Right there on the courthouse steps.

Most of us were busy checking out the crowd or playing on our phones.

But I heard Summer's gasp of delight and turned just in time.



To see my oldest daughter's face as her boyfriend, um, fiancé, slipped his ring on her finger!

A face that was filled with so much love, joy, and happiness, that I couldn't stop my own smile.

First graduation and then an engagement, Summer and Nolan are going full steam ahead!



As I keep all these precious sights stored in my memory, the newly engaged couple hug each other tight.



Then Summer, knowing no other way to express her feelings, grabs Nolan and kisses him soundly!

And I hear Jerad say, "That's my girl!"

Looks like Carter's not the only one that picked up on his romantic streak, even if she doesn't have the trait!



Speaking of Carter, I can't find him in the crowd anywhere.

And he wasn't.

He tells me all about it when he gets home, how he went to see a special someone.

Mysti!

He broke the ice with some chat about gardening.



Then decided his graduation cap and gown just aren't cutting it for a serious conversation.

He removes them, feeling much more comfortable in his jeans and shirt.

Comfortable enough to ask Mysti her sign!



Mysti blushed a bit and told him she's a Sagittarius.



Then for the bigger question, does she have a partner?

Carter said his heart jumped when she told him there wasn't anyone special in her life, yet!



And when he brought up fishing she was almost as excited as he was!



The next morning Carter tells us he's sure Mysti is the one for him and he invites her over to the house.

I have a feeling that Mysti feels the same way when I peek out the window and catch their hug.

A hug that expresses so much love that my heart almost bursts when I see it!



Carter surprised her with flowers this time as Mysti has already given him two bouquets.



He tells her he knows they haven't been dating long, but that she's the only one for him.



Then he asks her to be his one and only!

And she doesn't hesitate to accept.



I'm a bit surprised when the topic turns to children, but then I realize that Carter is telling Mysti that with a full house, Summer and Nolan can't start their family yet.

So he's moving to his own place today, the original Dean home right next door to Mysti's own home!

My heart catches in my throat a bit as I realize that Carter's just the first of our children moving out.

But then a burst of joy fills me as my next thought is that we're not losing our son, but we're gaining another daughter.



Summer's surprise turned out to be my surprise---A new home modeled after our original farmhouse but with a second story for expansion down the line and with a permanent, well laid out garden space!

And we were all surprised when graduation day finally was announced, but not just for Summer as Nolan and Carter graduated too.

Then Nolan surprised us all by proposing to Summer right after graduation!

And Carter followed his heart, asked Mysti Flynn to be his girlfriend, and moved across town to the house next door to hers.

Truly two days filled with surprises!

But with an empty space in the house, will Summer and Nolan take advantage of it?

And how long before Carter and Mysti move their relationship along?

What choices will Rayne, Autumn, and Winter make?

Well, those answers will be up to Summer to disclose as I'm turning over journal entries to her.

Follow along in Chapter 27: A New House, A New Heir
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

 I loved  your update and I love your new house and garden!

[deedee_828]

Thank you! I know it was just supposed to be a two-room expansion for Summer and Nolan, but I couldn't resist using it once I saw MrsFlynn's expanded version. And the 2nd story is off limits for now, just as Summer explains in the next chapter.
MrsFlynn's re-make of the garden is absolutely magnificent.
Eventually the crop will be largely Red Berry Beans, for the outdoor garden anyway, with a small orchard and one garden plot for use in cooking.
That's my plan anyway.

But sometimes my sims ruin the best laid plans! lol

[Sonshine]

LOL