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

[deedee_828]

I never knew Mom was keeping a journal of her life since she moved here to Aggie's Corner.

In fact, until our grandparents moved here, I didn't know much about Mom's previous life.

 And I was pretty shocked to see her rich playgirl photos!

She's beautiful, but just so made up, and showing lots of skin.

Not a photo I plan on showing to Rayne as Mom would never hear the end of it!

That is so NOT the mom I know.

I mean sure she loves a party, but I had no idea it was pretty much her whole focus, along with shopping, back in the city.

But I'm real happy she moved here to Aggie's Corner, even if she wasn't at first.

After all, she met and fell in love with my dad here.

And seeing how much hard work her and dad did to make the farm a paying success, well, it definitely makes me want to work just as hard to keep the new farm lot going.



But to kick things off for my journal, I'm going to show off a photo of our new house.

With the move, graduation, and Carter moving out, mom never even got a chance to do that.

Here's the main floor with most of stuff all in place.

MrsFlynn, the Dean's architect and now Carter's girlfriend, separated one main room into a kitchen and entry area.

We still have the three bedrooms but now there's a 2nd bath/laundry room with a dryer for use in cold weather.

And a 2nd clothesline as with 7 of us, we have lots of laundry. More about that later.

For now, the 2nd floor will remain off limits until it's time for the next gens expansion.
(I just realized that means MY children, mine and Nolan's, and I got goosebumps!)

But we're using the open hallway on the main floor for a computer area on one end and a kid's area on the other.

And our living room boasts two rocking chairs and our old radio, along with a bookcase and odds and ends.

We've still not broken down and gotten a TV or even a couch.



That doesn't bother me at all since my favorite past time is playing with our cat, Kobe, and her kitten Flynn.

And it's nice to have a little more elbow room to do that in.

Even with Carter living in his own place, our house is still pretty full with 7 people and 2 cats.



I'm enjoying the breather with mom out in the new garden, harvesting away.



And dad teaching Winter how to drive.



And Autumn at the business office doing a project for school.

She's planning on going over to Jamey's after that to work on homework.

But she's not fooling anyone as we know they'll be taking plenty of breaks.

I can just picture the two of them now with Autumn telling Jamey how cute he is and all.

I can't blame her though, he is cute, whether he's in human form or his werewolf one!



I just hope she's not setting herself up for heartbreak as she knows he has a girlfriend, even if he did agree to go to prom with her.



Later on Mysti stopped by with Carter to help him pack some of his stuff and Mom chatted with her about the new house.

Mysti told mom she has all sorts of decorations, photos, and farmhouse style décor, just waiting for mom to choose from, to add her own sense of style to the house.

Mom told her that she'd pick out some things for her and dad's bedroom and maybe a few other special pieces, but that she'd let everyone pick something out for their own rooms themselves.

And that since I'm the new heir, along with Nolan, we could change anything we'd like in our room or any part of the house really.



I overheard dad chatting with Nolan over dinner about exercise equipment.

Nolan's athletic so he was really happy to give his opinion on the best kind of treadmills and workout benches.

I have a feeling that dad and Nolan are going to get along just fine.



Speaking of getting along just fine, Nolan and I had our own special moment in the kitchen later that night.

He held me close and told me that this was the beginning of the rest of our lives.

Then we both grinned at how corny that was, but our kiss after that had us heading off to our bedroom for some alone time.



Nolan's so romantic and sweet.

Always caressing me and telling me how beautiful I am.



But it's not all play here in the new house and Nolan's really taken up his part and started helping out in the new garden first thing.

Even though he hates the outdoors, he gave up his dream of being an astronaut, and joined the gardener career just like mom and dad.

He changed his LTW too, to Renaissance Sim, wanting to max three skills.

Athletic for one, then gardening, and maybe handiness. Or something else.

He's not so sure about the third one yet.



That evening it was time for prom for Rayne, Autumn, and Winter.

Johnny came over all dressed in his tux to pick up Rayne.

And Jamey told dad he would have worn his too, but he'd transformed in it once so it wasn't really wearable anymore.

Dad commiserated with him and said it wasn't clothes that made the man, but the man who made the clothes.



Rayne was thrilled to be going to prom with Johnny and I overheard her saying to Autumn and Winter that homework was no reason to keep guys waiting, especially on prom night!



Then things got a little tense when Autumn said there was no way she was riding in a limo with a snooty older sister and her boyfriend.

Winter, ever the peace-maker, said Autumn could go on ahead with Jamey and she'd ride in the limo with Rayne and Johnny, as she didn't mind playing gooseberry.

Especially since she didn't have a date.



Autumn loved that idea and hurried out to greet Jamey.



While Rayne and Winter joined Johnny in the limo.

Winter took her chaperone duties very seriously and sat next to Johnny.

No hanky-panky on her watch!

When Winter showed me the photo later, I just had to have it for my journal.



When prom was over, Autumn was Jamey's steady girl.

Turns out taking Autumn to prom was his way of showing his previous girlfriend that it was over between them.

Pretty rough, but Jamey's a werewolf half the time, and you can't get much rougher than that.

Though by Autumn's smile and shining eyes when she got home, everything turned out just the way she was hoping.



And Rayne got her wish too when Johnny asked her to go steady.

But we all saw that one coming as these two have been pretty inseparable since they met.



And even though Winter went without a date, her classmates showed her she was loved by voting her Prom Queen!



After prom Autumn and Rayne worked on homework while Winter had a piece of cake.

Turns out she never even made it to the refreshments table with all her friends congratulating her on her crown.



Then she was stuck on some homework, so mom gave her hand.



But prom wasn't the biggest thing on my mind that night.

Nope, becoming a mother-to-be took all thoughts of my sisters' prom right out of my head!



I shared my news with Nolan right away!

And neither one of us could contain our excitement.



And Nolan took my breathe away when he said, "Sweetheart, find a gown and call all the family. We're getting married first thing!"



So my first journal entries were pretty big!

A new house.

Nolan changing his career and LTW.

Rayne and Autumn going steady with their prom dates, Johnny and Jamey.

Winter being voted prom Queen.

And Nolan and I expecting the first child of the next generation!

But with a wedding coming up, I'm sure my next journal entry will be just as exciting.

I'll try to contain myself in Chapter 28: Wedding Bells
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

I took Nolan's words to heart and checked out wedding gowns immediately.

There weren't as many to choose from with me expecting, but I found one that was perfect.




Then we set up a small wedding area with only an arch for now.

I'm not considering it a farm expansion because, well, it's not.

Farm expansions to me, and the rest of the family, mean something that brings in income for the farm.

So this is a 'just because' item. As mom said with a laugh, 'Just because we want it and can afford it!'

A small luxury that she's considering a gift to Nolan and me.

And Nolan got it set up just in time too, as guests had already started arriving.




Then when I saw this new stereo in the entryway, I couldn't help dancing.

I may not be a party animal like mom, but music always makes me want to dance, so I must have picked up a little of her trait.




Then Nolan and I stood together under the arch with all our family and friends  gathered around us.

Everyone looked so nice in their formalwear, especially Nolan, but my thoughts were on our baby.

I silently reassured our little one that mommy's nervousness was just because it was the special moment that her/his father and I were pledging ourselves to one another, 'from this day forward'.




Then it was time to say those words aloud as Nolan and I exchanged rings.

We kept our vows simple and sweet.

Nolan said, "Receive and wear this ring as a symbol of my trust, my respect and my love for you."

And I repeated it back to him, "Receive and wear this ring as a symbol of my trust, my respect and my love for you."

Then together we said, "This circle will now seal the vows of our marriage and will symbolize the purity and endlessness of our love, from this day forward until death do us part."

Modified From <https://www.learnreligions.com/exchanging-of-the-rings-700413>




Then we kissed for the first time as husband and wife, as rose petals were showered over us.

The love I felt for Nolan at that moment was so huge I thought my heart might burst.




Nolan must have felt the same way as he twirled me and dip kissed me right there in front of everyone!

Just like I had done with him after his proposal on the steps of City Hall.

I heard both dad and Carter say, "We'll make a romantic out of him yet!"

But I knew that even if we didn't carry the trait, Nolan and I were hopelessly in love and always would be.




Then it was time to cut the cake.

I shared a glance with Nolan that told me as full as my heart was today, it wouldn't even compare to how much our love would grow in the coming years.




Nolan let me do the cake cutting honors.

With my face lowered I could even hide the smile that had started when I noticed Mysti's formal dress.

I'd seen the exact same one when I was looking for my wedding gown.

So looks like I'm not the only one expecting a baby!




I grab my cake and join grandmother and Winter in the kitchen.

Grandmother tells me how beautiful I look and how much she's looking forward to her first great-grandchild.

I feel another surge of love as I realize that with my grandparents in town, this new little one will be loved by three generations of Swansons!




In the morning I eagerly chat with Autumn about the coming baby, telling her I'm hoping for a boy.

One that looks just like his daddy!




Winter chimes in asking what if it's a girl.

I laugh and say, well, it'll be one or the other, and loved either way.




Then Autumn shyly asks if she can feel my tummy.

And when her hand jumps at the baby's kick, she looks at me with such awe, I know I've got a live-in baby sitter!




And feeling that kick, knowing there's a little one in there, Autumn can't resist chatting away.

Telling him/her that they'll  get to play with blocks, learn songs on the xylophone, and read stories together.

Just like our mom and dad did with us.

Except this little one will have plenty of aunts in addition to grandparents and great-grandparents!




After a shower, change of clothes, and some breakfast, I take care of another chore.

Paying the bills.

I'm not the only one who can do this of course, but it's the first time I've done it, so it was a big deal.

Made me feel more grown up I guess.

Although, now that I'm married and expecting a baby, I should feel grown-up!

Since we've still got the bulk of our lottery winnings as well as more harvest money coming in, paying the $416 simoleans that were due was no big deal.

But I realized that would have been a huge chunk of change when mom and dad were first starting out, so I'm determined to do things as frugally as possible, making sure other generations don't have to feel that same pinch.

I smile when I realize that I may not have the frugal trait, but dad and grandpa Swanson have certainly instilled the habit into all of us kids.

And mom too.

It was harder for her, giving up all those luxuries, but she managed it and she's shown us kids nothing but joy and happiness our entire lives.

That's what I want for my children too, for them to be happy with family, and the togetherness of that, not just focusing on things, possessions.




I'd been doing some pregnancy reading lately, and with a start I realize I'm a bit hungry.

So I grab one of the apples I'd stashed away for quick snacks.

I'd read that eating apples could sway the odds in favor of a boy, so I give it a shot.

Probably and old wives tale, but what could it hurt.

And even though the apple was just a great quality one, it tasted delicious!

So even if it doesn't do anything for the gender of the baby, at least I can feel good about eating a healthy, delicious snack.

I feel the rocking chair inside calling me, but I don't give in just yet.




Besides healthy snacks, I need exercise to keep me and the baby in tip top shape.

So I head for the garden and do some light work, picking out some weeds, harvesting a few items.




Mom tells me not to overdo and that there's plenty of family to help with our ever growing garden.

I glance around at it and feel such pride.

But dad reminds me that I haven't picked out my farm/garden expansion project yet.

He says I've got plenty of time, and maybe I should get off my feet and check some things out on the web while I'm resting.




That sounds like a great idea.

But when I get inside, I find Nolan working on the old 2nd hand computer dad picked up.

The things spewing smoke and I'm a bit concerned with Nolan holding that screwdriver and all.

But he's confident he can fix it with his handiness skills, so I leave him to it.




When I hear eager young voices behind me, I turn around and see that Rayne and Winter are home from school.

Rayne sets down to start on her homework, but Winter's brought a friend home, Michael Gallo, the fairy boy who she's been best friends with since grade school.

I know she wanted to go to prom with him, but Michael has an afterschool job and wasn't free to go.

So instead of finding another boy to go with, Winter decided to go by herself, with her sisters.

But if the look on Michael's face is anything to go by, he's very much into his best friend!

And he confirms it.

Winter asks him if she thinks their star signs are compatible and Michael says, star signs or not, she's beautiful!

The blush on my baby sister's cheeks tells me everything I need to know as I watch first love blossom right before my eyes.




I check on them a little later on and I see why Rayne was so eager to get her homework done.

Johnny's arrived and the two couples are so engrossed in each other that they don't even notice me.

I can't resist a quick photo as they hold hands and chat away, getting to know one another.




And by the end of the evening, Winter's asked Michael to be her boyfriend.

He said yes, of course!




And then all eyes fly to Flynn as he becomes an adult kitty!




But as I bend down to pet him, I grab my tummy as I'm hit with an excruciating pain.

Baby Swanson is on the way!

Journal entry or not, baby's take precedence!

Once I've got everything under control, I'll continue with my story.




Did you really think I'd leave everyone hanging like that!?!

After several moments of everyone panicking, then leaving me alone to finish the job, our daughter is born!

And she's beautiful, looking just like Nolan.

Welcome to Breeze Swanson, our friendly little girl, who loves the outdoors.

Now I really do have to end it, I have a baby to take care of.




Nolan and I got married.

Winter has a steady boyfriend, Michael Gallo.

And Nolan and I have started gen 2 with a beautiful daughter, Breeze.

Join me in Chapter 29: New Baby in the House
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

Welcome little Breeze! I love how you got around the expansion by saying the arch was not it, LOL

[deedee_828]

Well, if you could have a wedding party w/o one I probably wouldn't have bothered with one just yet.

And I didn't want to try a community lot wedding at this time.

But I do have several wedding lots in my library so I may give that a try in an upcoming generation.

And down the line when there's no more updating to do on the house expansions, we'll probably make a more formal wedding area, like what MrsFlynn had in her farm lot mock up.

[Sonshine]

You'll have to let me know about the community wedding venues. I've never done that. Most of the time, I opt for a private wedding so I'm branching out here w/formal weddings.

[deedee_828]

Moments after Breeze is born, dad's all settled in the rocker and asking if he can hold her.




But Nolan exercises his new daddy rights and claims her first!

Getting in some snuggle time.




As well as some play time.

And Breeze loves it, cooing and waving her little arms as she gets to know her daddy.




But after having Breeze, I did some real hard soul searching.

I love spending time with Kobe and Flynn.

But even just taking the time I need to work in the garden and do household chores, my relationship with both of them deteriorates.

And with a husband and a child to take care of, I'm going to have even less free time to play with them.

So first I quit my job as a Homemaker, which wasn't going anywhere, and registered as a Gardener.




And before Breeze was born, I petitioned the town for a community lot for cats and they thought it was a great idea.

I went over all excited to meet our neighbor cats, but there were only five of them.

And it wasn't easy making friends with them. Mom was right, a pretty tough LTW choice.

I checked with the community pet registration board and we only have about 10 cats in town, total.

I guess I should have checked that out before choosing it.




And cuddling Breeze in my arms right after she was born, made me realize something else.
 
My heart's desire is to be---Surrounded By Family! So I changed my LTW.

It may take some time, but if mom and dad can do it on a shoe string budget, Nolan and I shouldn't have a problem with it.

And my heart sings at the idea of having five children with Nolan and raising them on our farm!




But having a baby in the house doesn't stop other family members from aging and we all gather for Rayne's YA birthday.

Seeing the sweet smile on her face, I blow my noise maker extra hard, though I think I may have startled Grandpa Swanson.




And Rayne's smile only grows bigger as she stands before us a new young adult.

With family and friends cheering her on, including Nolan's younger brother Nathan and his baby sister Sammi, who just started school.

But the hair style and clothes aren't going to cut it, especially not for Rayne.




She chooses a more natural free flowing hairstyle.

And comfortable leggings with a short-sleeved cotton sweater.

With sturdy boots for the garden, her every day look is complete.




For swimwear she chooses a black top and skirt with a flirty white drape.




And she chooses two formal outfits.

One, a black and white sleeveless tunic over black stockings with black heels.




The other, a classic black dress that shows off her new grown-up look.

And as soon as the noise makers stop and the guests quiet down, Rayne makes two announcements.

The first, that she's not only completed her LTW of having the Perfect Garden, with eight perfect plants, but surpassed it with nine!




Then she leads the way to the kitchen where a second birthday cake is waiting.

For her boyfriend, Johnny Rhoen!

Rayne blows a noise maker and the crowd cheers as Johnny's a bit startled by the sparkles.




But Johnny shouldn't have been worried as he grew up rather fine.

With the way Rayne was cheering, I think she was more than impressed with her boyfriend's new look.

And then Rayne makes her second announcement.

She's talked it over with mom and dad and Grandpa Swanson, and she's going to move in to the original farmhouse with Johnny!

The papers have all been drawn up, they just need their adult signatures, so this is her last night with the family.

I'll miss my sister, but I'm happy she's getting to move back to the old farm.

None of us liked the idea of selling it but we didn't like seeing it empty either.

With Rayne and her Johnny there, family will be living in it again. Just like it should be.




With the crowd gone, and the house settled down, Carter and I enjoy some left over cake.

He tells me all about the latest book he's read, then broaches a more delicate subject.

Babies. He asks me if I feel any different having a child, not physically, emotionally.

I tell him, definitely different. So different, I changed my LTW. I want a house full of kids!

Carter smiles and says he peeked in on Breeze earlier and she's a cutie, looking just like Nolan.

I ask when Mysti is due and he just takes a deep breathe and tells me, soon, very soon.

I pat his hand and tell him he'll do just fine, after all, he's survived being the only son in a house full of sisters, so one little baby should be a breeze.

We both laugh at that and he nods and says, "Thanks, big sister, I really needed that vote of confidence."




With Rayne's birthday being on a night with a full moon, mom was in for a shock at the consignment shop.

She found out that the consignment specialist was not only a vampire, but a werewolf too!

But he still took her produce, our latest harvest and she felt bad enough to apologize for her shocked look when she first saw him.

He didn't say much, but just shrugged and gave her a wolfy grin.




Mom checked on Breeze after she got back, now that the crowd was gone and she wasn't having to fight anyone for a turn at holding her.

It seems like even when it's just family, there's a line waiting to shower our daughter with hugs and cuddles.

So she got in some playtime.




And some cuddles too.

She said her favorite game with her babies was nosey nosey and now she gets to indulge in it again with her granddaughter!




The next day it poured for hours, but we all still worked in the garden.

The harvest waits for no man, dog, cat, or weather!




Then mom and dad went over to grandpa and grandmother Swanson's for the afternoon.

Dad got in some video gaming time, something he's not played since he was a kid.




Then they got THE call!

Mysti had her baby and Carter's a dad now!

They rushed right over and mom couldn't wait to show me the photos.

The newest Swanson, Mysti and Carter's, Flynn.

He's a loner just like his dad, being disciplined as well.




And she got in her grandma snuggles with him first thing.




But from the way she said Carter and Mysti were together, so thoughtful and sweet.

Hugging, flirting, thrilled at being new parents.

Flynn may not be an only child for long!




And when mom got home, she still hadn't gotten enough grandma time in that day.

So she fed Breeze a bottle and got in one more snuggle before heading off to bed.




I didn't say anything to mom when she mentioned Carter and Mysti adding to their family already.

But with Rayne living at the old farmhouse with Johnny, that left a space in our house too.

And with my new LTW, no time to waste, so I've already talked Nolan into trying for baby #2!

Then Rayne called with the news that Johnny proposed, so they're already engaged.

I'm sure wedding bells and nooboos won't be far behind for them either.

My siblings are really moving on starting generation 2!

And I've come up with a great idea for my farm expansion project, one that I think Nolan will love being in charge of!

Join me in Chapter 30: A Notion for Nolan
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

It all began when I headed off to the grocery store to buy things we can't grow.

You know, like meat patties and steak, since mom and dad haven't learned the secret to growing any of those plants yet.

As well as baby items, diapers and wipes, especially as Breeze goes through them super fast!

The clerk recognized me and congratulated me on the baby and then asked about our garden.

How it was doing, if we were going to have any more produce before fall, stuff like that.

I told him we'd probably have another crop or two before the real cold weather hit, but that we'd been selling most of our produce at the elixir consignment shop as they could get really good prices outside of Aggie's Corner.

He said that was true enough, but he had a tip for me, so I moved closer and my eyes opened wide at his information.

Information that gave me the perfect expansion, one that will be right up Nolan's alley!




And it didn't take me long to realize the clerk was right.

I did a little research on the web and it was really a great idea for a farm that had some space available and a gardener that hated the outdoors!

I discussed it with mom and dad, we all agreed to give it a shot and I sent a chunk of our lottery money abroad to obtain the necessary items.

So if you cast your eyes back to the edge of the garden fence, you'll see the newest building addition to the Swanson Farm.

It doesn't look like much, just a small garden shed.




Here's a closer look.

Still quite the nondescript little building, just an ordinary shed.




And not much inside it either, besides a double wide staircase.




But once you go down those stairs, you enter a large underground room that's perfect not only for what the clerk mentioned but the perfect fit for Nolan too!

A room with special garden soil 'rugs' that allow you to plant inside.

A room with two odd looking machines and special boxes that came from France and can become a farmer's dream money-making enterprise, the perfect Nectary!




As soon as it was set up, Nolan and mom got right to work planting.

Nolan had to plant regular grapes in his plot but mom was so skilled she could plant all the specialty grapes that came from France in the second one.




And from the information we received from France on tips and tricks for amazing blends, mom plants the third bed with life fruit and flame fruit.

Once she's finished, she breaks out in song and dance to the new radio we bought especially for the nectary.




While they were busy doing that, I headed to the day spa for a relaxing massage.




But when I was finished, I realized why I was having such a back ache.

Breeze is going to be a big sister!




I can't wait to get home to tell Nolan, mom, dad, all the family about the new baby!




Nolan's thrilled and ignores his pancakes to talk about baby stuff while I eat ravenously.

I still want a boy, but he loves Breeze so much he says another little girl would be just fine.

I agree, but tell him I'm hoping to use his family name for a boy.

"Dean Swanson? That doesn't sound half bad. I really like that and I know my parents will too!"

I smile and say, "Well, if not this one, we'll just keep trying!"




After our meal, Nolan heads back to the nectary to fertilize all the plants he can.

He doesn't have quite enough garlic to fertilize all three plots, but he gets over to the first row of life plants, which he notices are perfect quality!

From what I read, those should make fine nectar indeed.

And between his planting and fertilizing, Nolan's reached level 7 of gardening and can now plant all the specialty grapes and plants.




I head to the garden and start harvesting a few more plants.

With the way we've been planting, we always have something that's ready to be harvested.

And with as much money as the Red Berry Beans bring in, even as late as I joined the career, I'm already at level 7, Nolan's at level 8, and mom and dad have maxed the career, both being level 10 gardeners!

So now we're just working towards perfect crops for everything we have planted.




And Winter's thrilled that she's finally gotten in her last driving hours with dad.

Now all of us can help mom and dad bring produce to the elixir store.




And Autumn's really bonded with Flynn.

If she's not painting, she's brushing him, or playing with him.

I'm glad though since I don't have much free time to do that now.




With our gardening chores over for the moment, Nolan and I share some parents-to-be moments.

First he gently rubs my tummy.




Then he talks to the new baby.




And then he listens for a response!




After all of that he pulls me close and tells me he loves me.




And Breeze is getting attention too.

First some auntie cuddles with Winter.




And Dad finally got a moment to have her to himself, rocking her in the sunshine of the bay window.

Even after five kids, dad still looks nervous holding babies.




I was all settled in a nearby rocker, reading another pregnancy book, when dad stood up.

And as soon as he did his frown disappeared to be replaced with a huge smile.

I asked him why he was smiling and he told me Breeze smiled at him, her first smile!

I didn't have the heart to tell him it was probably just gas!

And who knows, maybe she knew her grandpa was nervous and needed a smile.




And Nolan's been reading up on pregnancy too.

He says you can never be too prepared when it comes to childbirth.

I didn't comment but it's the mother that does all the work, so I'm not sure what he's actually preparing for.

Maybe the best way to jump around, freak out, and otherwise drive a woman in the throws of labor to distraction?

But I guess his hearts in the right place, wanting to learn as much about the experience as possible.

Frankly, I think he'd be better off spending time learning nectar recipes!




But I must admit he's a great dad.

Feeding Breeze a bottle whenever she's hungry.




And getting in as many kisses and hugs as he can!

After reading those baby books, we know these baby days may seem like a long time, but they really end way too fast.




So our farm expansion for this generation ended up being a basement garden and nectary.

Something special for Nolan so he can garden inside with the added benefit of being able to grow nectar-making fruits year round.

Little Breeze is getting plenty of attention from all of us and is going to be a big sister soon!

But before that happens we have a big event coming up, mom's elder birthday!

I'll tell you all about it in Chapter 31: Mom's Still Mom
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Mom and Winter have been spending a lot of time in the garden together.

I think mom's trying to spend as much time as she can with her and Autumn, knowing they'll be graduating and becoming young adults and moving out soon.




But before that happens, we've got a big event happening, mom's elder birthday!

Once all the guests are gathered around, and the candles are lit, mom pauses for a moment to make her wish.

Brina spins a noise maker, while George is focused solely on those burning candles.

I've heard rumors and Nolan's admitted that things have a tendency to burst into flames with the Dean's around, but the candles keep there small safe flames.




And when the sparkles disappeared so had mom's red hair!

We knew it was going to happen but it was still a shock.

Especially the odd, high double ponytail hairstyle.

But it didn't seem to faze mom, who just wriggled her fingers and smiled.

Everyone laughed when she said, "I've still got plenty of gardening left in these hands!"




Then mom grabbed the first piece of cake and said, "dig in everyone and then we can dance!"




The party was great and Rayne and Johnny took mom at her word and slow danced together most of the night.

Mysti hung around too, getting to spend time with the family.

Carter stayed home as Flynn had a sniffle but we know how much Carter likes crowds, so no one was surprised he chose to call mom and wish her happy birthday over the phone.

And poor Kobe was disappointed that there wasn't any birthday cake left over for her to enjoy!




And at first grandmother Murielle remained her prim and proper self, rocking in the nursery and keeping Breeze company.




But soon she was laughing, giggling, and gossiping with Rayne as they took turns peeking in on Breeze.

It was so nice to see her loosening up and enjoying herself.




Rayne and Mysti got a chance to catch up with each other too.

While Nikki proudly showed off her baby bump to everyone.

Looks like the Dean's are expecting two more grandchildren!




But the surprise of the evening was learning that Johnny was a genie!

Turns out he inherited it from his mom, but no one really knew as he got his dad's coloring.

He can actually fly and cook and clean with a snap of his fingers!

Rayne said his meals are divine and she'll have us all over for dinner soon.




Then Rayne and I chatted about Breeze and the new baby, too.

She was asking all sorts of questions so I'm thinking she's planning on being a mom soon herself.




The baby was moving around a lot, so I let her feel my tummy.




When everyone finally headed home, I spent some time with Breeze.

A little play time.




A diaper change and a bottle.




Then some snuggles.




And a cozy rock before nap time.

My usual mommy/baby routine.

It's worked pretty well so far, so I'm sticking to it.




When mom joins me, I'm still shocked by her hair.

She's changed the style which is better, but I miss her red locks.

She decides she does too and heads off to town.




Dad had told her the sky was the limit for her present but she's used to being a bit more thrifty now, so she headed to the day spa for a cut and color, along with a new outfit.

When she got back, I was relieved to see she looked more like her old self.

I mean, her younger self!

Her red hair was back with just a touch of gray and in a very attractive style.

I told her how great she looked and she beamed and said she knew!

Mom's always known she was beautiful and becoming an elder hasn't changed that one bit.




I was so thrilled that being an elder hadn't changed her that I gave her a great big hug.




But someone else wanted some attention because as mom pressed against me, the baby kicked.

Hard!

Mom laughed and poked my tummy and was rewarded with another strong kick.




But dad's gone overboard with his frugality and started dumpster diving!

I wouldn't have believed it but you can't deny a full spread of photos in the local paper!

Local Lottery Winner Down in the Dumpsters!












But his limelight was short-lived when this hit the paper!

Teen Fairy Woos Local Heiress!!!




And I think Winter's cheeks were redder than her hair or the roses when we saw this photo.




Mom was a bit miffed that she's never made the papers here in Aggie's Corner, but she decided that if it the choices were jumping into trash bins, being kissed in public, or staying anonymous, she'd have to pick anonymous!

We all told her that with her party animal ways there wasn't an anonymous bone in her body.

She thought about it a moment and then laughed as she knew we were right.

Boy are we going to have plenty of stories to pass on to little Breeze!

Who's growing up fast as her birthday's right around the corner.

I'll take plenty of photos to share in Chapter 32: An Unbirthday and a Birth Day
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

Well, I'm sure you can figure out what happened.

Toddler birthdays are important.

It's when you find out who the little one is going to look like.

Will he or she have mom or dad's hair or eyes?

Maybe grandpa's nose?

It's the first look at the next gen as a real person and not a burrito baby!

But the best laid plans of mice and men…well, not mice…

Not going there.

Anyway.

Michael and Winter were still determined to have a nice date despite paparazzi and tabloid interference.

So they met at the festival.




They were getting a little too caught up with each other again.

Ah hem, PDA wise.




So before they ended up in the paper again, they decided to go see a movie.

You know, in a nice darkened theater, where they could be a bit more private.

And Winter even admitted that something was bugging her about home, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it.

So she went inside and watched the movie ( or didn't watch the movie) with Michael.




Then when the movie was over, she spotted Jamey, Autumn's boyfriend, so she called her.

Autumn was thrilled that Jamey had gotten off work early so she rushed into town to spend some time with him.




Then she spotted Carter all decked out in his lab coat.

He's taken a job with the local science center as they needed someone with gardener and fishing skills.

And they forgot all about pregnant me.

The one who laid down to take a nap while mom and dad went into town and Nolan was in the nectary gardening.




And I'm the one who was supposed to plan the party and call everyone when it was all set.

Except I slept right through it!

And by the time I got the cake out---it was too late!

Breeze aged up on the floor!

No cake, no candles, no balloons, no party, nothing at all.

I feel like the world's worst mom!




But everyone said it was fine. No harm done and Breeze won't even remember it.

Mom fixed her hair and put her in the cute birthday outfit she bought and dad scooped her up and tickled her.

Mom was thrilled that Breeze has our red hair and I must admit she looked cute as a button in dad's arms.




Nolan started teaching her to talk right away.




But he missed her first potty training and had to change her diaper.

He said it was a lesson learned and he'll pay closer attention when Breeze starts squirming next time.

As Autumn eats a piece of birthday cake, she says, "Don't feel bad Nolan, messy diapers come with the territory. Mom and dad have told us kids plenty of stories about that!"

Nolan laughs ruefully and says, "I'm the oldest of five too, Autumn, so I should know all about it. But being a big brother isn't quite the same as being a dad!"




With a fresh diaper and all comfy in her new pajamas, Auntie Winter puts her to bed.

And Winter notices one of those unique dolls that her siblings got when they were little.

She asked me about it later, asking if I had passed mine on or if this is a new one.

I told her this was a new one, just showing up in the mail like they do sometimes.

Now that Winter brought it up, it is odd how some babies get them and others don't.




Across town her cousin Flynn's had his birthday too.

And he's just too cute for words!




But it was late and time for bedtime for him too.




But it was a good thing Breeze was all settled in her bed.

Because it was time for the next little Swanson to be born!

And Nolan followed all his pregnancy training just like most other fathers.

He totally freaked out!




Then headed out of the room to get my parents, I guess.

Because shortly after he left, mom came in.

And even after five kids, she freaked out too!




Then dad came into the room, looked at me just long enough to realize I was in labor, saw mom freaking out, and just walked right back out of the door.

Dad's overcome his cowardice for a few things but labor isn't one of them!




And with the room empty and quiet, so I could focus, I gave a final push.

Accompanied by an agonizing groan, as mom was right on the money when she told me labor hurts.




And Breeze has a little sister!

I'd been planning on a boy, but I had a girls' name picked out just in case.

Grandmother Murielle's name was too old-fashioned for me, but I played around with it a bit and found a shortened version I really liked.




So here she is, our second daughter, Rielle Swanson!

Who's athletic just like her daddy, and brave along with it!

Maybe she'll be the Dean  that puts out fires instead of setting them?

It's a thought.




I feed her her first bottle.




And Nolan gets in some play time and cuddles with her..




Then mom rocks her while Breeze takes her first wobbly steps.




By the time mom's got Rielle fed, changed, and ready for a nap, Breeze is much more confident and taking step after step!




Dad was so excited he ran over to Rayne and Johnny's house, the old farmstead, to share the news.




He'd already taken a wallet full of photos of little Rielle and was super excited to be a grandpa again!

"She's beautiful Rayne, like all the Swanson girls. We're all wondering who's hair this little one will get! The Swanson red, the Cartwright blonde like yours, or maybe the Dean brown."

Rayne nods and says, "Or maybe even Brina's hair color as she seems to pass it on to girls."

Jerad smiles and says, "She does and it's very distinctive that's for sure! I guess only time will tell. Who knows maybe one of yours will get the Cartwright blonde and keep it in the family."

"I hope so dad. Johnny wants a little girl that looks just like me, while I'm just hoping he passes on his genie powers, girl or boy. It's such a time saver having him cook and clean with just a snap!"

Being a perfectionist, Jerad agrees with enthusiasm on that point.

Just imagine having the power to instantly make the house spic and span and being able to make perfect meals!




"Unfortunately, no baby news yet dad, but we did adopt a kitten. And you and mom will be the first to know when we get the happy news."

"No rush on our part Rayne! Your mother and I love having grandchildren, but the timing is up to you and Johnny. You'll know when it's the best time. But I'm glad we put that new roof on and shored up the foundation. The restoration carpenter I spoke with said our original carpenter was right, the foundation won't hold up a second story. But adding new foundation for any add-ons would be fine. So you just say the word and we'll get on that. "

"Well, I've completed my LTW, so now I've got plenty of time for raising a family! And Johnny says we'll welcome as many as the Watchers see fit to give us, so we may take you up on some add-on rooms. And I'd love a covered porch or a deck, maybe both, I'll see if Mysti has any ideas!"




Breeze is a toddler and she's starting to talk and walk.

And she's got a little sister, Rielle!

Rayne and Johnny have adopted a kitten but no baby news for them yet.

And mom was right about Carter and Mysti.

They called and told us that they're expecting another baby!

But we've got more than baby news coming up.

It's almost time for Autumn to have her young adult birthday.

Let's see if she can blow out her candles without burning the house down this time!

All the details in Chapter 33: Toddler Talk and Cake
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

Welcome little Rielle! Little Flynn is very cute indeed! I have to ask though, what does PDA stand for? I'm afraid I'm not up on all of the abbreviations. : /

[deedee_828]

Oh, sorry, PDA is Public Display of Affection, keep hearing it in connection with my kids schools, on the not allowed list of course!

[Sonshine]

Thanks!

[deedee_828]

And with my help and her daddy's encouragement, it wasn't long before Breeze mastered walking.




And started toddling all over the house on her own!

Her favorite spot being the kid's play area on the other side of the hallway.




And one of her favorite toys being this cute drum that was a gift from her great-grandparents.

They found it online at a store called the Golden Ticket Toy Shop.

We all thought it was a toy for children, until Breeze started banging away on it.

And she could play with the teddy bear too.

But the jack-in-box was a bit beyond her level, so I guess she'll check that one out when she's older.




Next we finished up her potty training.

With Rielle becoming a toddler soon, I was glad to get that one done fast.




But for now I'm still enjoying her baby days.

I love playing nosey nosey with her and just breathing in that baby scent.

And when her little hands pat my face, oh, my heart fills up with so much love and tenderness.




Nolan's favorite game is attack of the claw but Breeze makes such scared faces I keep telling him to take it easy.

He says she laughs right afterward and isn't really scared.

But you never know, it could give her a complex when she's older.

It has 'therapy session' written all over it if you ask me!

Dad does have the coward trait and there's no sense taking chances on her picking something like that up.




But he's such a good dad, taking the time to play with her and teach her to talk.

Though I sometimes wonder at Nolan's choice of vocabulary words.

Mom told me that she got to listen to his last talking session with Breeze as she was rocking Rielle nearby.

It started with flies of all things!

Mom said Breeze said the word quickly enough but seemed a bit puzzled by it.




Then he taught her bus.

"The wheels on the bus go round and round."

Which made a little more sense as she'd seen her aunts, Autumn and Winter, get on the school bus that morning.

Mom said Breeze repeated that word several times, her little arms waving and bouncing on her bottom in her excitement.




From there he went to 'Simoleans', which mom said was way too big a word for her.

But after a couple of false starts, Breeze managed to spit a reasonable variation of the word out.

"Si-si-mo-leens!"

Mom was pleasantly surprised and said, "Well done, sweetie! But daddy should probably stick to simple words."

Nolan gave her a grin and said, "She's doing great. That's my smart girl! But grandma's right. We should probably take it down a notch."




Mom warned me I wasn't going to like the last word he taught her.

Well, not the word itself, but how he presented it.

"Cake. We won't let mommy forget and miss cake at your next birthday."

Breeze repeated the word with ease mom said, but didn't really understand the rest.

But I beg to differ as when I picked her up later, she said, "Mommy miss cake?"

I will never live that down!

But boy will I get after Nolan for reminding Breeze of that!




Later that afternoon, mom picked a few ripe veggies, beans, and herbs while she was waiting for the rest of us to get ready for Winter's drama recital.

We'd had a bit of an Indian summer so there were some stragglers left on some of the fall plants.




Then she fed Rielle a bottle and got her all settled in her crib.




And she gave Breeze one last hug and kiss as we all headed out to the high school.

We all decided it would be best if Nolan and I didn't say goodbye and make her nervous with all of the adults she was used to being out of the house for a few hours.




But the babysitter said they were both angels, Rielle calm and quiet in her crib.

And Breeze happily playing with her xylophone while she played with Flynn.




But we didn't hang around in town long as after Winter's recital we had a big family event.

Autumn's birthday!

Mom had the cake already and quickly put it on the table as we all gathered round.




And before we knew it, Autumn was a young adult!

But her hair was just not her style and the clothes looked like dad had grabbed them off the costume rack at the thrift store!

He swore he didn't but we ribbed him about it anyway.




First Autumn changed her hair, back to the longer style she preferred, but in a new sophisticated cut.

Since this was Autumn's last birthday at the house, mom said she splurged a bit on a new wardrobe for her.

All in pinky shades that Autumn loves, even with her red hair.

Here's her spring/summer everyday outfit.




Her formal, a hot pink sheath with a black belt and matching black shoes.

And she looked gorgeous in it!

She'd always been pretty growing up, but now, wow, she was just breathtaking.




Mom laughed as Rayne modeled this one as she'd gone completely retro for athletic wear.

But Autumn didn't mind and I wouldn't have either if I'd looked like that in it!

I don't usually even think about my body shape but seeing first Rayne and then Autumn take after mom, I did feel a little self-conscious about my bigger build, taking after dad.




Autumn modeled her outerwear, a grey-blue outfit with a long pink off the shoulder sweater.

And then she said she was done as it was too cold to model her swimsuit and her sleepwear was nobody's business but her own.




We took a close-up for her bio for my journal.

Somehow I missed one of Rayne and I didn't want that to happen again.

Autumn Swanson---young adult human
LTW:  Master of the Arts (max painting and guitar)
Career: Music (she'll be heading into town to take a job at the local theater)
Traits: Loves the Cold, Good, Perfectionist, Artistic, and at YA, Nurturing
Fav's: Roots, Firecracker Tofu, and Pink
BF: Jamey Rios ( teen werewolf)




She stayed in her fall/winter everyday outfit as we all chatted and grabbed cake.

I tried a bite or two out of politeness, but knew I didn't need the extra calories.

Especially as stuff like that seems to go straight to my hips and thighs!




When the doorbell rang it was Winter that did the honors and gave a classmate some early holiday candy.

Turns out, trick-or-treating is done over several days here in Aggie's corners, not just on Spooky Day.

She'd hope to enjoy the holiday herself tonight, but between her recital and Autumn's birthday, there just wasn't time.




And even though Jamey Rios joined us to celebrate Autumn's birthday, he declined her offer to get him a cake.




He said he'd be celebrating his birthday later with his family and that seemed pretty reasonable.

Besides none of us was really sure what happened when teen werewolves aged up and I think we were all a bit nervous about finding out, especially dad!




Breeze is well on her way to mastering all of her toddler skills.

Winter's school days are coming to a close with her drama recital marking the end of her club activities.

Autumn's a young adult now and won't be with us much longer as Jamey ages up soon himself.

And next up is little Rielle's birthday.

Hopefully I'll be on top of things this time and not wait too long before getting the cake set up.

Join me in Chapter 34: Toddlers and Teens
Coming soon.

[deedee_828]

With no school the next day, Winter spent some time with her nieces.

She rocked Rielle ever so gently and the baby never uttered a peep, totally content in her arms.

Breeze was nearby playing her xylophone again and I even heard Winter murmuring words of encouragement.




And when Autumn got back from signing on at the theater as a Fan, she had a guitar she needed to practice with.

She had three skill points from her toddler days, but she was going to need many more to complete her LTW.

So she started practicing immediately, and it wasn't long before she had another skill point under her belt.

But right after she earned it, she got a call from Jamey asking her to meet him in town.

He texted her the address and told her to hurry.




But to Autumn's surprise, when she gets inside, she's not just greeted by grown up young adult Jamey, who is super cute, by the way, but mom and Rayne are there too.

Jamey let mom do the honors and announce their surprise.

A welcome home party in the new house they got for the young couple!

It had been a one-story, one bedroom home, that Jamey's parent's helped him buy.

But mom and dad renovated it and added a second story and two more bedrooms and a bath upstairs.




When Jamey asked Autumn if she was happy about his surprise, her answer was a passionate kiss!

Mom looked at Rayne and said she thought that was a definite yes and they should probably give them some privacy.

Besides, she wanted to go over some remodeling plans with Rayne for the farmhouse.

They couldn't add a second story and Grandpa Swanson had already put a new roof on before Rayne and Johnny had moved in, but they could tweak it a bit, give it a bit more personality and restore some of it's farmhouse character.




When they were alone, Autumn told me that Jamey was concerned about springing the house on her that way.

He was grateful that mom and dad took on the expense of the renovation, but he still would have liked Autumn's go ahead and input before it was a done deal.

Autumn told him not to worry as done deals were pretty much a Swanson trademark!

But it was really sweet of him to be concerned.

Turns out he wasn't just being sweet, just nervous, as before the night was over, he asked Autumn to marry him!

Autumn said she'd show us the ring when she stopped by to pick up more of her things.




Since she didn't get to go out trick-or-treating, mom and dad gave Winter permission to have a slumber party.

She invited all of her teen friends that hadn't graduated.

Her boyfriend Michael Gallo, of course.

Along with a Rios boy who had genie coloring, a vampire girl, and our recent babysitter, a new girl at the high school.




The teens were a lot of fun. It brought back memories of my own slumber parties.

Winter would have loved to spend some alone time with Michael, watching the stars preferably.

But it had started to rain and the temperature had dropped too so they just spent the night chatting and dancing.




Well, until the stereo start spewing smoke and Nolan said it was going to take awhile to fix it.

Then the teens all grabbed sleeping bags and sacked out.

Lucky for Winter and her friends that the new house has plenty of open space for slumber parties.

At my slumber party Nolan spent the night freezing outside on our tiny front stoop!




In the morning, Nolan got Breeze ready for the day with a clean diaper and a fresh outfit.

Then he cuddled her a bit and left her to play with her toys.




He was spending the day taking care of his nectary plants.

They were doing amazingly well in the basement, but being inside they needed a bit more care as he had to do all the watering by hand.




I headed out to the main garden.

But before I could even check on any plants, my suspicions were confirmed with my noticeable rounder tummy!

Nolan and I were going to be parents again.




But my sleeveless maternity dress wasn't warm enough for fall temperatures.

So I headed inside for some warmer clothes and found dad in the front room.

He looked at my figure with questioning eyes and I confirmed it with a big smile and said, "Yes dad, another grandchild is on the way!"




I'd heard the mailman and went out to check the mail.

It was time to the pay the bills, so I got that chore out of the way.




Then I headed to the nectary to share my news with Nolan and Mom.

Mom did a little dance while Nolan patted my tummy.




And he couldn't resist listening to the little one on the way.




Or chatting with him/her either!

He was so excited and went on and on about playing with blocks and all the things they would do together.

I'm really glad that Nolan comes from a big family too and doesn't mind having a houseful of kids.

At least I hope he doesn't mind.




He must have felt my insecure vibe about that because moments later he took me in his arms and hugged me.

Tenderly and very, very, gently, he circled my waist with his strong arms.

Then he looked deeply into my eyes and told me he loved me, now more than ever.

That each and every day his love for me grew stronger.

He said he wanted this baby, had wanted another child for awhile now, and he was so happy to know that he/she would soon be here.

I confessed that I'd wanted another child too, plus I still had my heart set on a boy.

Nolan said he was happy with girls and hoped we had a house full of them!

I told him he may live to regret that wish, but he just smiled, and pulled me closer.




As we were heading back inside, we spotted a couple of trick-or-treaters and we realize tonight is the actual holiday.

Then we realize that the teen cheerleader is sporting distinctive Nolan hair!

But before we can catch up to Sammi and offer birthday congratulations, she's hopped into a waiting car and is gone.




But poor Winter is going to miss it again as it's Rielle's birthday!

I get inside and cuddle her once last time, just drinking in that nooboo smell of baby shampoo and powder.

Earlier today I was a bit sad to know she was growing up, but now with another baby on the way, I'm ready for her toddler time.




The cake is all set and Nolan and Winter have joined me.

While mom and dad stand together on the other side of the kitchen.

I made sure it was in plenty of time this time!




Once I blow out her candle, I set her gently on the floor.

While everyone else cheers and blows noise makers.

I hold my breathe in anticipation wondering who she'll look like.

Me? Nolan? One of her grandparents?




And I'm thrilled when I see her grandmother Brina's hair!

Oh, she looks so cute.

Breeze has my red hair and Rielle got Brina's purple-streaked hair.

So now that only leaves dad's blonde, Nolan and his dad's brown, and Grandpa Swanson's dark hair.

We've got three more possibilities and three more kids to complete my LTW, so it could happen!




And dad wants 5 grandchildren, with Carter's Flynn, and my two girls, that's three.

Plus the new one Carter and Mysti are expecting and now Nolan and my little one-to-be, so that will be five.

And then the phone rings and dad's grin is so huge I'm thinking Mysti must have had the baby.

I blurt out my thoughts and dad shakes his head, still grinning like a fool.

Dad gets off the phone and shows us the photos Carter just sent him.

First Mysti with the baby.




And then Carter holding her.




We all look at dad a bit puzzled.

And I ask, "Why did you say Mysti didn't have the baby when she did?"

Dad grins again like a loon and shows us the last photo.

Our mouths all drop open in complete surprise when we realize what we're looking at.

As it sinks in dad confirms it as he shouts, "The baby Mysti is holding is Stephanie and the baby with Carter is Samantha. Mysti had twins!"




Autumn moved out into a home with Jamey and they got engaged that same night.

Breeze has been joined in toddlerhood by Rielle, who's inherited her grandmother Brina's purple-streaked hair!

And Mysti and Carter just had twin daughters, Samantha and Stephanie!

So dad got his five grandchildren wish and immediately popped a wish for 10!

Which mom wholeheartedly endorsed.

Nolan and I are expecting baby #3, a baby that Nolan and I both want very much.

But will Nolan get his wish for another girl, or will I finally get my wish and add a son to our family?

I'll let you know when it happens in Chapter 35: Girl or Boy?
Coming soon.

[Sonshine]

YAY for Grandma Brina's hair! Let's hope that the noboo on the way is a boy finally.