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

[deedee_828]

Monday morning, I tried smoking the bees first,  but instead of calming them, the bees seemed even more incensed by the smoke and my intrusions and attacked me even more viscously than the first time.

Dad was a bit alarmed, saying, "That doesn't look like much fun Scott! Maybe you should re-think the bee hives!?!"




Once I was once again free of stingers, though still suffering from the bee stings, I talked it over with Dad and he reminded me that the elixir shop in town had hives and that the odds of getting stung were much less with bees used to so many sims and they didn't require everyday up keep either.

Being able to acquire good quality honey without the danger of being attacked sounded good to me, especially having more free time for learning recipes, cooking, gardening, and fishing, not to mention spending time with Keri!

My relief at such a simple solution, giving up on raising my own bees, was so great I laughed out loud, which Dad caught in this photo.




Inside the house, Bella started taking her wifely duties seriously, neatly making the bed once she woke up.




Jeffery had arisen even earlier and talked Mom into training him.

During that workout session, Jeffery was promoted to Assistant Fire Chief!




After lunch, Dad and I cooled off in the sprinklers and then got back to work tending the garden.

I'd already harvested so many berries from my new plantings that I knew having enough for jams and baking this fall wouldn't be a problem.

Though I'd given up on raising my own bees, I still wanted to try my hand at all the aspects of cooking that were available.




Catrice helped me out by doing some more fishing, though I'm not sure Appaloosa Plains residents are ready for shark steaks!

What on earth are sharks doing in our pond anyway!?!




With Jeffery being trained by Mom, Bella relaxed a bit and played a game of chess with Grandpa.




With the heat bearing down in the afternoon, I helped one of our gardeners tend plants in the nectary gardens.




Which is how I got to see Mom eating some of that wedding spaghetti.

By the look Mom gave her food, I'm thinking her fondness may be waning with the thought of having to eat it for days with all the leftovers!




Once the afternoon had started to cool off a bit, I relaxed and played with our new chicks.




And milked the poor cow as I'd forgotten to with my awful bee experience in the morning.

She was so full of milk that she was eager to be relieved of her burden!




With the last rays of the sun, I tended a few more plants.




Then considered my chores done and popped in a fishing line.




But I didn't fish for long as I was eager to start reading more recipes.

It was such a beautiful evening, I lit the small table lamps and read under the wedding pavilion.




After learning three new recipes, I heard voices and found Bella and Jeffery on the front porch, their favorite spot.

But it wasn't stars they were talking about as I heard Bella say, "So it's settled. As soon as you get your promotion to Fire Chief, we move! Can you believe we're going to have a place together, just the two of us? It's so romantic and exciting! I'll start house hunting first thing in the morning!"




With that incentive spurring him on, Jeffery pushed himself to the limit.

Seeing the huge biceps and shoulders he had now, I was a bit envious and thought about asking Mom to train me!




And all Jeffery's hard work paid off as, a few hours later, he was the proud new Fire Chief of Appaloosa Plains!

"I've finally worked out enough to achieve my goal, sir! With the stipend a Fire Chief makes, I can support Bella in the way she deserves. It won't be a self-sustaining farm like this, but I'll make sure she wants for nothing!"

Dad simply said, "Bella makes a pretty good salary in her own right, Jeffery, so I've no doubt the two of you will do well financially. But making simoleans isn't the only thing a couple needs, make sure the two of you spend time together, love and support each other, so your relationship will grow deeper, a tie that can never be broken. And if the two of you need anything, anything at all, don't hesitate to ask us."




Jeffery had given the news to Bella first, so she was already saying her goodbyes.

First to grandpa as they hugged each other tightly.




And then to Mom, with both of them wiping away a tear or two.




Last but not least, she said her goodbyes to Catrice, Josh, and Dad as they'd all come to see them off from the front porch.

But it wasn't a new home, well, not one of her own that Bella and Jeffery would be moving to.

"We will take you up on that offer of a house Dad, just not right now. I can't pass up this opportunity to take on a private case. Besides, Ms. Bird has no family and I wouldn't be living up to my oath as a doctor if I didn't care for her in her final days. With my training and Jeffery's, we make the perfect couple to live in and oversee her care. "

"She will be in the best of hands Bella! But hospice care is a tough job. If you need anything, even if it's just a listening ear, call us!"

"I will, Dad! I promise. It may not be the exciting, romantic place for two I'd been thinking about, but it's where we need to be right now."

And with those words she walked off the porch and she and Jeffery headed to the ridge, where Ms. Bird now lived.




Mom came out to relax in the lounge chair, to come to terms with another daughter leaving to start a life of her own.

But she didn't get to relax long as Catrice and Josh's flirtation suddenly turned serious as Catrice fell to one knee and asked, "Josh Bluegill, will you marry me!?!"




Mom was so shocked she almost ran off the porch as Catrice flourished a diamond ring that sparkled in the sun.




But she was still close enough to hear Josh's shouted, "Yes! Yes! Yes! Of course, I'll marry you!" as he jumped into Catrice's waiting arms.




Afterward, I found the three of them, Mom, Dad, and Grandpa sitting on the couch.

Grandpa didn't bat an eye as he said, "I guess this means you'll be putting together another wedding; gown, shoes, guests, and all!"

Mom and Dad didn't say a word, just stared straight ahead, the shock of one daughter being a mother already, another one engaged, married, and moved out, all in the span of a few days, taking it's toll.

And now Catrice engaged to Josh with another wedding right around the corner!




Here I thought my bee decision was going to be the highpoint of the week, but with Bella and Jeffery moving out, and Catrice and Josh now engaged, that seemed like small beans!

And Mom and Dad were not taking these big changes, happening so close together, well!

Not well at all!

Along with that thought came one I'd been thinking about since I'd heard Bella say they'd be moving soon, though I'd never dreamt it would be so soon!

But it was another big change, a really big step for me in particular as, with space in the house, I could now ask Keri to move in!

[deedee_828]

Later that day, Catrice had been all mysterious about going into town, so I followed her.

Oddly enough, she ended up at the Kindle house, distant cousins of mine through one of Grandpa's sisters.

What on earth could she be doing here?




Peeking through a window and seeing Catrice brushing one of the Kindle cats, Tugger, the mystery was solved.

I wasn't the only one thinking about the house having open spaces!

Catrice must be thinking about adopting a cat, since she's never had the opportunity before now.




I followed her next door, where my cousin and Jeffery's co-worker, Deanna Gallo, now lived.

There was a party going on, so this time I walked boldly inside like I'd been invited, and I found Catrice petting a kitten.

"He's cute! What's his name?"

Not taking her eyes off the small pet, Catrice smiled and said, "Dink."

"He looks pretty chubby to be called that!"

"Deanna told me he was the runt of the litter and pretty scrawny when she first got him. He's filled out now."

"I'll say! He looks more like a 'Chub' than a 'Dink'! Is he why you're here or did you come to attend the party?"




Catrice looked up at my question and said, "Scott, you may be an angler, a natural cook, and have a green thumb, but a detective you are not! I saw you following me in the truck as soon as I left the farm! You were peeking in the Kindle's window and then you followed me here! I might not have lived a real life as long as you have but I wasn't born yesterday, so don't bother denying it!"

Sheepishly, I admitted, "You were being so mysterious about where you were going, I was just curious. I thought maybe you were planning to meet Josh and elope or something!"

"I wouldn't do that! Mom and Dad are freaked out enough with all the changes on the farm!"

"But why hide that you're looking for a cat? We all know you love cats and there's finally space in the house now, so it seems reasonable for you to get one."

"You wouldn't mind? I mean, it's your farm now and you're not an animal lover…"

I smiled and said, "Maybe not an overt animal lover, like you, Mom, and Mia, but I'm a farmer Catrice, and a farm has animals, so I wouldn't object to a kitten or a cat on the farm. We had cats in the beginning you know, Kobe and Flynn weren't always ghost cats, they lived their lives back on the farm in Aggie's Corner. Heidi, one of the cats that lives with Karina was Great- Grandma Summer's much loved pet. And I bought chickens, cows, and bees, for my expansions, for Sim's sake, so where did you get the idea I didn't like animals?"

Catrice smiled a bit and said, "Don't let Mom hear you say that! She'll be washing your mouth out with soap!"

I smiled back and said, "Or worse, lecture me for hours on propriety and etiquette! But seriously, if you want a pet, don't let being on the farm stop you. It's your home as well as mine. Besides Kimo misses the horses so much, he'd probably love the company. I've been thinking about adopting either Max or Lady, from the litter he fathered with the Belle Pelly, now that they've grown up, but we've got room for both, another dog and a cat!"




With thoughts of new family members filling my mind, I called Keri on my way back home and had her meet me out back by the pond.

"I hope you don't mind chatting outside, Keri? It's private and a beautiful girl deserves a beautiful setting…"




Keri smiled at the compliment, saying, "It is beautiful Scott! The glow of the lily lights, the splash of the fish, the two of us alone under the full moon. Since my birthday I've developed a much greater appreciation for the outdoors so I love the farm even more now!"

Keri's words, spoken with so much feeling, made my own even stronger and I knew, without a shadow of doubt, that she was THE girl for me!

So I looked straight into her shining eyes, and asked, "So you wouldn't mind moving in? Living here on the farm with me!?!"




Keri didn't even hesitate, but placed a sweet kiss on my lips, murmuring, "Mind? It's what I've wanted for as long as I can remember!"

My mind went pretty blank after that as we wrapped our arms around each other, the kiss going from sweet to passionate,  expressing our deepest feelings for each other in a way that went beyond mere words.




Now that she's living on the farm, it's official, so I asked Keri for a photo, so I could add it to my journal, show off my special girl, the love of my life!

But the photo Keri chose is one that almost made me blush, one of her in a very suggestive black nightie that was edged in my favorite color, violet!

Keri might not be inappropriate after all of Mom's etiquette lessons, but the smile she gave me when she handed the photo to me had my blood racing faster than ever!

Introducing:
Keri Loveland--young adult human
Parents: Rodney Singleton and Gracie Loveland
Siblings: Ariel, Oliver, Kyle, Claire and Lynn, and young brother, Monte
LTW: The Tinkerer (Master Logic and Handiness)
Career: Science, but will change, probably to gardener
Traits: Loves the Outdoors, Nurturing, Neat, Genius, and Ambitious
Fav's: Dark Wave music, Pancakes, Seafoam
Skills at move in: Charisma-4, Cooking-4, and Logic-4




But having Keri move in wasn't even the biggest event that evening.

Mom and Dad got a call that had us racing across town to Mia and Anoki's and the sight that met our eyes was a little confusing at first.

Because instead of Mia holding a now toddler-aged Kamaya, we found her in Bella's arms!

Bella's smile grew as she said, "Mia had planned on inviting you all to Kamaya's birthday party, but right before she called you, she went into labor! So she called me instead, to babysit Kamaya, and then Anoki drove her to the hospital. Kamaya's got a baby brother, Keanu!"




If that news wasn't amazing enough, Mom's eagle eye had spotted something else, Kamaya's eyebrows.

Mom quickly whisked Kamaya to a mirror and, with actually hair, it was clear that her eldest grandchild had inherited Mom's unique hair color!

That beautiful teal green with pink tips and highlights, though Kamaya's highlights were much more predominant than Mom's.

She also had huge baby blue eyes!

No doubt about it, my niece is adorable!




But Dad wasn't letting Mom monopolize his only granddaughter this time around and he soon had her cuddled in his arms.

Kamaya seemed a bit hesitant with dad at first.




But a few soft words and a tickle had her laughing out loud in Dad's arms.

Though Mom wasn't laughing when she asked, "Why didn't Mia tell us she was expecting again!?!"

Bella said, "Her pregnancy was so close to Kamaya's that we weren't sure if she'd actually carry the baby to term. She didn't want to get everyone's hopes up and have everyone be devastated by the loss."

"So she went through it alone? How was that better!?!"

Bella put a hand on Mom's arm, trying to calm her a bit, "Not alone. Anoki and I knew, and we respected her choice to keep the pregnancy a secret. In fact, it would have been obvious at Kamaya's birthday party that she was expecting. If she'd actually made it to the party."

Seeing Mom's concerned look, Bella added, "But she was far enough along for the baby to be healthy! Keanu will be coming home with Mia first thing in the morning."

Relieved at this good news, Mom realized just how late it was, not for us, but for Kamaya, and decided we all needed to head home and let Bella get Kamaya ready for bed.




When we got back to the house, I noticed the small painting on the wall near the easel.

It was an amazing portrait of a cat curled up on a desk cluttered with magazines and a pile of books.

No wonder Catrice had been roaming around town earlier today, she must have been trying to find a cat that looked like the one in her painting!

Of the two I'd seen her with, Dink had come pretty close to having that same coloring, being white and yellow, only missing the darker patches on his head, neck, and hind quarters.

Maybe Catrice's reluctance at adopting a cat was less about living on the farm and more about finding just the right cat?




A familiar sound from upstairs had me racing up to make sure Keri was okay.

She'd wanted to discover some potions and I remembered just how volatile some of Bella's mixtures had been!

Thankfully, Keri was fine, just excited about discovering her first potion.

A foaming green concoction with an awful odor that had me vowing to stick to cooking, something much more appetizing!




But Keri didn't limit herself to discovering potions, first thing in the morning she started learning the handiness skill.

Listening to a handiness tab cast and reading a handiness book to get a jump start on the skill!

I don't know if doing both at the same time helps or not, but Keri's a smart girl so I'm sure she knows what's she doing.




I got busy in the garden, harvesting Red Berry Beans before it got too hot.




Catrice took advantage of the beautiful summer morning to do a sketch of Grandpa Leonard.

Even at 135 days old Gramps can still hold his own with the ladies, just look at the pose he struck!

As Catrice sketched, he had her listening wide-eyed as he recounted all of the times he had Grandma Rielle blushing like a school girl when he blew her kisses!




Then Mom came outside looking a bit shocked as she said, "Your father is on the computer right now, confirming our flight and reservations…for China! We'll be leaving in just a few minutes!"




Then Mom shocked all of us as she threw propriety to the wind, raced across the lawn, and started playing in a pile of leaves!

Grandpa was the first one to find his voice as he said, "Looks like getting to go on a vacation has turned your Mom into a carefree school girl! That's it, Marley, let those feelings of joy out! It's good to see you being playful, my dear!"

Mom's lips curved into a smile as she said, "It feels good too! With Scott taking over the farm and Keri now here to support him, I feel we can go on vacation knowing the farm is in good hands. Especially with you here, Dad, and Catrice and Josh, too, plenty of family to help provide a helping hand or valuable advice. And let me and Diwan go on vacation without having to worry about how the farm is doing."

Dad added, "It's pretty amazing how free you feel when the next generation takes over the farm! It's not like it's a burden really, but you have to stay more focused until that happens." Turning to me he winked and added, "Especially once children start arriving!"

Mom was so thrilled about going to China she didn't even bat an eye at Grandpa's outrageous comment!

Keri had just moved in and here Grandpa was shouting about us having kids at the top of his lungs!

Thankfully, Keri was in the house, and didn't see me turning as red as one of my raspberries!




But I didn't have time to be embarrassed for long as, watching Mom and Dad waiting by the road for the airport van, Mom's and Grandpa's other words finally penetrated my brain.

I'd been so busy with my expansions, then we had Bella and Jeffery's wedding and them moving out soon after, followed by Catrice's engagement, I'd not really thought much about Mom and Dad's plans to travel.

How them leaving the farm, leaving the country, showed just how much they trusted me with the farm!

Sure, Mom had mentioned Keri, Grandpa, Catrice and Josh being here to help me out, but she'd also said, 'Scott taking over the farm', and it was at that moment that I realized I had done just that.

I'd made plenty of decisions, some good, some not so good, um, beehives!

One decision I had no qualms about at all, asking Keri to move in.

And all those decisions showed my parents I was no longer a kid, but a responsible young man.

Just before the van showed up I shouted, "You two have a good time and catch lots of fish to stock the pond!"

No need to mention the farm as they trusted me and knowing that, I now trusted myself.




Catrice is thinking about adopting her first cat, but hasn't decided on which one yet.

But with room on the farm, I didn't hesitate to ask Keri to move in and that was the decision that gave Mom and Dad the chance to travel, confident in my ability to run the farm.

I'll definitely be putting together an entry of their trip to China, though I'm not sure how exciting it will be for those who aren't as enthusiastic about fishing as me, Catrice, and Dad!

[deedee_828]

Just like my sisters, Mom and dad's first photo from China was taken at the bottom of the steps to the Hostel, perched far above on the hill.

But they were holding hands and I grimaced as I still wasn't all that comfortable seeing my parents be romantic.




But it wasn't romance dad was aiming for as he'd just taken Mom's hand to hurry her along to get sightseeing out of the way as Mom wanted to see historic buildings while they were in China.

Their first stop was at the Halls of the Lost Army.

Just look at all those steps and the Chinese architecture!




But Dad couldn't be kept from his fishing for long and soon they were fishing in the Scholar's Garden.

Mom popped in a pole too and she even caught the first fish and proudly held it up to show off her prize!




To her surprise she caught the 2nd fish too!




Dad decided it just wasn't his day and went and chatted with one of the locals asking about other fishing spots in the area.




But when Dad saw just how much attention Mom was earning from the local paparazzi, one writing furiously as he watched her fish, while the other one was snapping photo after photo of her, he was a little concerned about just what they were doing, especially after Bella's encounters here in China!

I can't say I blame him as I wouldn't have felt comfortable with other men ogling Keri either!




And ogling Mom they were, especially when she caught another fish, her largest one yet!




That spurred Dad on to find a different fishing hole, one he hoped was secluded enough to discourage paparazzi!

And it was at that fishing hole, Hot Springs, that Dad caught his first Koi!




Mom's first catch here was disappointing though as it was just a goldfish, something you could catch in most any pond at home.




But then the fish really started to bite, with dad catching another Koi.




And Mom too!




They fished all night and when the sun came up, even got to see some wild horses.




Mom took a break then and went for a swim in the beautiful pool nearby.




Dad continued to fish, determined to catch at least 10 of each species of Koi so he could stock our pond on the farm.

But when the wild horses came closer, snorting and rearing in displeasure at finding their way blocked by a fishing pole and a strange sim, Dad decided it was time to take a break too.




Especially when a local young woman started snapping photos of him and asking him to smile!

She'd scared off the wild horses, but she'd scared Dad a bit too!




So Mom and Dad decided to check out another famous landmark in China, The Temple of Heaven.

This place had more terraced stairways and even spiral stairs inside, going all the way to the lookout balcony at the top.




And Mom and Dad climbed every one to see that amazing view!

Mom clapping in delight at the beauty of it.




Then they focused on each other and kissed passionately!

I was a bit embarrassed by that, but Keri told me she hoped our love endured just like theirs had, something I'd tried not to think about while I was kid growing up!




Then they visited another fishing hole called Dragon Springs, given the name due to the fountain at the top.

Mom, despite all those steps she'd just climbed at the Temple of Heaven, played kicky ball to keep even more fit.

Some of her moves were so astounding that no one seeing them would take her for a grandmother that was soon to be an elder!




Dad stuck to fishing and caught his first Dragon Fish!

The sight of it taking him completely by surprise as he'd no idea such a fish even existed!




His exclamations over it had Mom joining him and it wasn't long before she caught one too!




I must admit, it's one of the strangest fish I've ever laid eyes on!




They both fished until dark, catching enough fish to stock our pond with all the different species of Koi and Dragon Fish!

Once that was done, they settled on the ground, relaxed, and watched the stars, enjoying their last night in China.




They even took a photo of the beautiful night sky as a memento of their trip.

With the tinkling sound of the water of the Dragon fountain nearby we could all just imagine how romantic and memorable it was.

And, like Keri, I now hope that our love endures just like theirs has, growing stronger and deeper as the years go by!




I don't have any wishes to travel, yet, as I've still got a lot to do here on the farm.

Seeing just how happy Mom and Dad were in the photos of their long awaited trip to China, I'm glad my taking over the farm gave them the opportunity to enjoy it!

Things went smoothly while they were gone and I hope that continues to be the case upon their return.

[deedee_828]

Author's note: After posting this chapter, I discovered that none of the images were showing up.
Hopefully this is a temporary issue with the imaging site I use and will be resolved soon.

[deedee_828]

As soon as Mom and Dad got home from China, Dad stocked our pond with all his new fish!

Four different species of Koi plus those incredible Dragon Fish.




I was pretty excited to try and catch one of those Dragon Fish, until something else happened that totally caught me by surprise.

I completed my Lifetime wish!

I've no idea how harvesting apples contributed to that, but I'm not complaining!

I felt just like Jeffery and Josh did, that having accomplished that so early in my young adult years, I was now free to focus on other important things in my life.




The first thing being spending more time with Keri as furthering our relationship was at the top of my list.

Grandpa too, as he was really getting up there in age, being 136 days old now.

So old that he kept forgetting to change out of his pajamas before coming outside!

And I still wanted to add one of Kimo's puppies to the farm to keep him company as well as keep his doggie line going.




But when Keri and Catrice started chatting about her adopting a kitten or a cat, if she could just find the right one,  I thought I'd help her out.

So I called up the local animal shelter and told them the type of kitten we were looking for, and was told that the coloring was called Calico, denoting three different colors, but that it could refer to a number of different breeds, some not even having the white, black, orange coloring at all!

I thanked him for the information and asked if they had one available that had those specific colors, especially orange and black spots on it's head and hind quarters.

And it must have been our lucky day because they said they did have a Calico kitten at the shelter!




I told Catrice and she immediately went on-line to adopt her new pet.

The shelter told her they'd drop the kitten off later today, once it was cleared for adoption with all the required shots.




But then our luck ran out, as something we'd all been dreading for weeks happened.

Grandpa Leonard floated off the nectary floor, sparkled…with a bit of a shocked expression on his face…




…and faded away to a gray ghost!




I'd been working in one of the nectary gardens so I was the first one to see Grandpa in his ghostly state.




My hands flew to my mouth, but they couldn't stop my cry, "Grandpa Leonard!!!"

Then a cold like I never knew wafted up from the nectary floor.




Moments later, Grim himself appeared, his scythe mere inches from Grandpa!

Even though I knew in my heart that Grim had extended Grandpa's time much farther than he was want, I shifted my gaze to him, imploring, "No! Please, no!"




But Grim just shouted, "Silence, mortal!"

And with an imperious wave of his hand, a golden urn began to materialize in front of me.

I knew it was hopeless to continue pleading and sobbed into my hands.




Just as Dad joined us, Grim, intoned, "Leonard Diwan Kimble Swanson, I come for thee. I have parted thee from your beloved wife, Rielle, long enough for her to regret her treatment of me in days gone past and understand my power."

Grandpa nodded, but Dad and I were puzzled by Grim's words, and I blurted out, "Grandpa getting to stay with us so long was a punishment for Grandma?"

Grim stayed unnervingly silent at my question, but Grandpa replied, "She called him a bully when he took her mother's cat, Kobe, and then when he returned for Flynn right after that, she hit him! I always knew Grim would get his own back, but I never dreamed it would be by taking my Rielle so soon and then letting her live in the underworld without me for so long!"

Grandpa added fiercely, "The punishment was unusually cruel, even for one such as you! Rielle was right all along, you are a bully!"

Grandpa's words had Grim loosing his professional stiff demeanor and shouting, "Me!?! It wouldn't have been nearly this long, but the blasted woman kept goading me until I realized that she was doing it on purpose to extend your life!"

Grandpa smirked, "So she won after all! That's my Rielle!"




Then Grandpa stepped forward and said, "If I promise to keep her out of your hair from now on will you let bygones be bygones?"

Grim grasped Grandpa's hand and said, "If you can keep her from nagging me from dawn to dusk, you've got a deal! How you enjoyed being married to such a woman is beyond me! She's turned my own realm into a battleground instead of my refuge and I never get a moments respite!"

Grandpa gave a laugh and said, "I'm irresistible, sir, there's not a woman alive, or dead for that matter, that wouldn't fall prey to my charm! But Rielle has been my one and only most of my life and I plan to keep our love a living flame even as ghosts in the Netherworld. She'll be way too busy to bother with you!"

"Big promises for a mortal now a ghost, but such a promise deserves it's own reward. It is done!"

I knew I should feel relief that our family was no longer at odds with Grim, but with the cost being Grandpa's life I couldn't hold back my sobs.

And even through my own grief, I heard Dad crying his heart out, so I knew he felt the same way.




But both of us were shocked into silence when, instead of returning to the Netherworld after Grandpa jumped into his urn, Grim turned to Dad.

Bowing before him he said, "My promise to your father is one that will be upheld for all Swanson's, as long as they each hold what is precious to me! But if one should forget this offering, then for that one, the promise will be null and void and they will join me as all have before this pact was sealed!"

With those puzzling words, he vanished.




I rushed into dad's arms and he did his best to console me as I mumbled, "What…what did Grim mean by those words, Dad!?!"

"I'm not sure, son. I can barely think of anything right now except that your grandfather is gone! He'll be happy, of course, to be reunited with your grandmother, but my chest aches with the pain of it! Those of us that remain behind will feel his loss deeply."




Dad's words proved true as, moments after he uttered them, we both broke down, unable to contain such deep grief.

The shining gold urn behind us a silent reminder of our loss.




But a sniffle from the other side of the room made us aware we weren't alone.

I walked over, wiping away tears, to find Keri looking sad and lost.

"I'm so …sorry, Scott. The words just don't convey my feelings enough, but I didn't want to intrude. I didn't know Grandpa Leonard like you and your Dad did, but he was a friend, made me feel so welcome here."

"You're not intruding Keri, you're one of the family. Maybe not blood related but family just the same, like Catrice, Josh, Anoki, and Jeffery. We should go upstairs and help Dad break the news, make calls to the rest of the family."




But two-legged family members weren't the only ones affected.

Kimo took Grandpa's loss just as hard as we did and only ate from his food bowl when he couldn't hold out any longer.

Making pitiful sniffling noises to show that he missed his sim companion and was experiencing his own grief.




Despite, or maybe because of, Grandpa's passing, Josh and Catrice watched the stars on the back porch.

I'd sat out their many times with Keri, so I know you can't actually see any stars through the porch roof, but the fall temps had made the ground too cool to sit on and they were just doing something to keep their minds off our loss, seeking solace in each other.




But when the animal shelter representative arrived, Catrice was quickly reminded of her new responsibility!

Shaking the woman's hand, she said, "I promise to take the best care of my new kitten. I've wanted one for the longest time."

Hearing Josh's sob, she wiped away a tear, and added, "This is just not the best time for us, we've recently lost our grandfather… but I won't neglect my duties toward my new pet."

The woman's face softened with this revelation and, even though her eyes held the unearthly glow of a vampire, her voice was full of compassion as she said, "My condolences. Maybe your new pet will help to ease the pain of your loss."




Dad and I held it together just long enough to discuss what to do about the Produce Stand as some of Dad's items had been up for sale for three days and, contrary to my belief, what had sold had extremely high fees attached to it!

So, for the first time ever, we cancelled consignments!

Between that and Grandpa's loss, Dad and I felt broken in heart and spirit, our grief overwhelming us both again.




That's when Catrice joined us, crouching down before her cute Calico kitten, Ilia, crooning, "Welcome, little one. I think you're going to be just what we all need around here, something to cheer us all up!"

Somehow the kitten seemed to understand Catrice's words, or maybe it was just her tone, but Dad swore the kitten knew we'd just lost a family member to the underworld and this had Catrice pondering the fairy/vampire woman's words more deeply.




So much so that she quickly made another call and finding out that one of the cats was fast reaching his time limit at the shelter, she adopted him too!

His name is Budge and he's pure black.

I guess Catrice figured if one pet could help us get through our grief, then two would help even more and she'd be saving a cat at the same time!




As was my duty as heir, I finally gathered the strength to collect Grandpa's urn from the nectary basement and placed it in it's permanent home.

On a table across from Grandma's in the stable loft, where they could remain together, forever.




I know the next couple of days are going to be rough for all of us, but with our two new pets around it may help us adjust a bit easier.

The hardest part is going to be waking up in the morning and remembering that Grandpa Leonard's no longer here with us on the farm.

But farm work will keep us busy, gathering eggs, milking the cow, taking care of all the gardens before Fall, and getting in some last minute fishing before the pond freezes.

[deedee_828]

In the morning, Catrice welcomed her pets with a song as they eagerly ate from the pet bowls.

It wasn't a peppy song as she wasn't feeling quite up to playing an upbeat tempo but it was one that soothed with it's soft melody.




I couldn't help but be drawn towards it and to cute little Ilia who had finished eating.

My grief for Grandpa was still uppermost in my mind but, feeling Ilia's soft nose and scratchy tongue against my fingers as she sniffed and licked my hand, did make me feel a little better.

Catrice smiled down upon us and said, "Thank you so much for finding out they had a Calico kitten at the shelter, Scott. I think we need Ilia and Budge even more so now, to help us get through this."




Kimo seemed a bit surprised when Ilia wandered into the living room, but the two soon got acquainted.

It gave me a warm feeling seeing him sniff and nuzzle the small kitten, especially seeing how gentle he was with her.




Then Ilia tried out the scratching post.




We introduced her to the top-of-line litter box that had just been delivered, and she immediately knew what it was for.

And it wasn't just any litter box, it used lasers to automatically clean the box after each use, so no mess and no smell!

Mom was the most impressed as she'd been concerned about having our farmhouse smell like a barn, something she felt wouldn't be proper at all.




After meeting all of us, eating, and using the litter box, little Ilia was all tuckered out and settled into the cat bed Catrice had placed under her cat painting.

There wasn't a pile of books and magazines for her to curl up on, but she looked very much like a smaller version of the cat in the painting.




While Ilia was napping, Catrice brushed Budge and got to know her new adult cat.

Budge had been at the shelter the longest and was the cat most in need of a good home.

Catrice felt even better about adopting him, knowing she'd saved a pet and was providing him a home and a family of his own.




But having new pets on the farm didn't allow us the luxury of passing on farm chores, so we all got to work.

Keeping busy was the best way to keep from breaking down over Grandpa, at least.

Mom introduced Keri to gardening, showing her what plants to harvest and how to prepare them for the coming dormant seasons.

Keri was so intrigued by all the different species of plants we had and the knowledge required to keep them healthy and producing well, she decided to become a gardener herself!

When he saw her interest, one of our local gardeners mentioned that they had a new software program to help us keep track of our produce, planting beds, and our sales.




He came inside, booted up his laptop, and showed me just how easy it was to use!

I was a little skeptical, after the bees and produce stand fiascos, but the program was pretty impressive, so I ordered a copy of it.




Trying to offset that expense, I drove into town to consign our last Red Berry Bean harvest for the season.

The consignment clerk was thrilled to see me and said, "We've had numerous requests for Swanson Red Berry Beans, Scott! The perfect quality has them on the top of our sales list! In fact, many of our regular clients have standing orders for them. I'm glad to see you returning as your farm is our top contributor, though I'm very sorry to hear of your Grandfather's passing. He will be missed."

"He will, indeed. I appreciate your kind words and I'll pass them on to the rest of my family."




Buoyed by the clerk's words, I had high hopes of reaching level 7 of the gardening career with our upcoming sales.

To celebrate, though it was a bit premature, I settled down in a rocker in the nursery and read a few recipes.

Soon I had three more recipes added to my growing list of recipes known and with a bit more cooking skill, I could move on to the next level of recipes.

Despite my sadness over Grandpa's loss, this small achievement had me crowing with success.




I went down to the basement to share my good news with Keri, but instead ended up crying on her shoulder as a new wave of sadness struck me!

Keri consoled me as best she could, patting my back and whispering soft words of commiseration.




Then she decided what I really needed was a distraction and quickly showed me some of the plants she'd tended earlier.

She was really proud of the mushrooms and said they'd be ready for harvest soon, not being affected by the seasons like the plants outside.

It did my heart good to see and hear her excitement over her new career.

Even more so when she exclaimed, "I'm already a level 10 gardener!?! How could that be!?! I just signed up this morning after learning the skill!"

I grinned and said, "Because the consignment shop already had buyers for our Red Berry Beans, but I never dreamed they'd sell this fast. Or bring in so much!!! Over $125,000 simoleans just from that one consignment batch! And only $1 simolean in fees! That's incredible!"




Mom had been exercising nearby and, overhearing our conversation, said, "Congratulations, Scott! But I think it's time to see if something else incredible can happen here on the farm."

And with those words, Mom planted one of the precious Forbidden Fruit seeds that Bella had formulated during one of her gene splicing experiments at Uni!




With the Forbidden Fruit seed nestled in it's mound of soil, Mom took the Sunflower plants out of storage and said, "Just look at them dance! We'll have sunflower blossoms in no time!"




Mom was proven correct and, with the 2nd batch of sunflower blossoms, all of her newly planted specialty grapes grew to their next stage.

While her Forbidden Fruit seed actually grew to maturity, completing the wish she'd held for so long!

Keri immediately started tending the plants nearby, amazed at the wonders of the sunflower blossoms used in the composter as all those plants were ready for harvest again.




With Keri helping Mom in the gardens, Dad spent most of the day fishing, determined to catch 50 Kawarimono koi!

He was well on his way too as he had 39 of them safely stored away.




Josh had kept busy today as well, painting, of course.

He completed a painting of little Ilia, which was a masterpiece, his second one!




To be fair, Josh painted one of Budge right afterward, not a masterpiece, but a brilliant painting all the same.

But upon completion, Grandpa's loss hit him full force and he cried out in sadness and pain!




But my thoughts kept dwelling on the Forbidden Fruit seed now grown to maturity in the nectary.

Were the rumors I'd heard for so many years true?

Mom had told me all about my Aunt Thistle, my Uncle Jake's wife, who was a PlantSim.

And my sisters had told me of the PlantSim girl they'd met at Uni, Sharon Dorsey.

But could the little seed actually become a PlantSim?

There was only one way to find out!

I rushed down to the nectary before I could lose my nerve, quickly knelt down, and gently picked the Forbidden fruit seed, easing it from the ground.

Under the small sprout of leaves it actually looked like it had a head and face!

The gardener exclaimed, "You have to be careful picking THAT plant, Mr. Swanson, it can add to your family!'

My heart soared at his comment and I said, "I'm counting on it!"




But what I wasn't expecting was having a nooboo nestled in a blue blanket in my arms!

I'm not sure what I HAD expected, a full grown PlantSim, a child or teen, maybe!?!

But that's not what I got!

Ready or not, I was a father of a baby PlantSim!

The thought gave me a warm feeling, made me a bit nervous, too, but as I cuddled him closer, I smiled, looked down at the squirming nooboo and said, "You came from the earth so I will name you Terrin! Welcome to Swanson Farm, my son!"




I'm not sure how I did it, but I managed to make it upstairs and into the nursery without dropping my precious bundle.

I collapsed into one of the rockers with Terrin and my parents soon joined me, both of them staring in amazement at the newest addition to our family.

I suddenly wondered if I'd done the right thing!

Maybe Mom had wanted to pick the Forbidden Fruit plant, call the child her own!?!

I quickly turned that thought into a question, dreading Mom's answer, but instead of censuring me, Mom looked thoughtful and replied, "I've no wish to be a parent again, Scott. Ever since Mia and Anoki had their 2nd child, Keanu, all I've wished for is more grandchildren! It's only fitting that the new heir should bring in the next generation, be the parent of the first PlantSim in the Swanson family! After all, it's the ultimate achievement for any Farmacy!"

Dad nodded and said, "I feel the same way! Adding a PlantSim to the family is a great privilege, but I'd much rather get to spoil one as a grandson!"




And spoil him they did!

As soon as I put Terrin in his crib, Dad was cuddling him and playing with him.




Then Mom rocked him to sleep.

After she showered and changed, of course, as it wouldn't have been proper for her to cuddle her new grandson in workout gear, all sweaty and smelly!

Not that Mom was EVER sweaty or smelly, as she always uses the 'Don't Break A Sweat' option when she exercises, but you know how Mom is about doing things properly.

I didn't say anything though as seeing Mom and Terrin looking so sweet together as she rocked him, well, that really helped ease the pain of Grandpa's passing.

And I could see by Mom's smiling face, her contentment as she rocked Terrin, that she felt the same way.




But we were all so caught up in Terrin's unexpected arrival that we'd forgotten Kimo's birthday!

Mom's faithful companion, his muzzle and head showing his advanced age by sprouting grey hairs, is now an elder!




Our new pets, Ilia and Budge, had kept us busy and kept us from dwelling on Grandpa Leonard's loss.

But my PlantSim son Terrin's arrival banished the last of our feelings of sadness and loss, bringing joy back into our lives!

Along with that joy we'll be busier than ever, taking care of him, and watching him grow.

After all, he is the very first Swanson PlantSim on the farm!

[deedee_828]

That evening, Josh went to the library to help increase his logic skill for his teaching job.

He'd recently been promoted to Art Department Head and the position required several additional logic levels.




To his surprise, Bella was there and told him she'd just found out that she and Jeffery were expecting their first child!

Josh exclaimed, "Congratulations! Your parents will be very happy to hear the news. They've been hoping for more grandchildren to spoil with attention and teddy bears! Terrin makes three and yours will make four."

Bella smiled and said, "We're getting close to giving them the five they both want, that's for sure! The Swanson's run to big families and have had lots of little ones over the years, so I guess we're just keeping up the tradition!"




Across town, Keri and I were enjoying our first formal party as a couple.

We grabbed plates of autumn salad and sat together chatting over our meal.

I couldn't hold back my smile when Keri asked, "Would you mind if I learned how to fish, Scott? I've learned so much about gardening, I'd like to learn fishing too and get to spend even more time outdoors! The farm is so beautiful, no matter the season!"

"Mind!?! Of course not! I'd love to spend time together fishing. But it may be awhile before the happens, with the weather cooling off, our pond will freeze soon."

"That's okay. It'll give me time to learn the basics from books, and read over all those fishing bait books your Dad has collected over the years!"




Later that evening, we got home from our party just as Catrice got home from the theater, proud of her first performance as a Back Up Singer.

And she excitedly raced towards the barn when she saw spotted a familiar ghostly face!

Grandpa Leonard's first materialization since he'd left with Grim!




But before she could greet him, he'd drifted away, so she decided to check on the chickens.

She found some eggs I'd missed that morning, including an exotic one, which she safely tucked away.




After a quick shower and changing into her athleticwear, she tried her hand at milking the cow!

She did a good too, singing a tune to the cow to keep her calm.

Though I was surprised she wanted take care of those jobs so early in the morning, before the sun was even up, I was more than happy to give her the privelge and sleep in myself!




But the reason for her doing so became clear when, right after breakfast, Josh asked us all to gather in the side yard.

For their wedding!

With our joy at Terrin's arrival banishing our grief at Grandpa's loss, they decided to add to that joy by getting married.

But with Grandpa leaving us so recently, they decided on a quiet family ceremony, just me and Keri and Mom and Dad.

Keri was all excited to be a witness to this intimate ceremony, but then she shivered as a cold feeling swept over both of us!




The bride and groom were just as startled as Keri and I when ghostly Founder Jerad materialized and cheerily greeted Catrice with a wave and snapped their photo!

He was definitely not an expected guest!

But as an Imaginary Friend Made Real, a daughter of the house by adoption, and not blood, Catrice took it in the spirit it was meant, a reflection of just how accepted she was as part of our family.




Dad was so startled he was totally focused on ghostly Jerad instead of the bride and groom.

Going so far as to whisper, "Never had a family ghost attend a wedding before…it's quite the honor."




This spurred Catrice and Josh to clasp hands and quickly say their vows together, "With this ring I thee wed, two hearts now becoming one, forsaking all others, promising before these witnesses to love, honor, and cherish each other, to love one another, from this day forward as husband and wife."




As they kissed, my ghostly great-great grandfather clapped and said, "Introducing Josh and Catrice Bluegill! Congratulations to both of you and welcome to the family, Josh!"

And then he disappeared back to his urn!

If Josh and Catrice were startled by the proclamation or his disappearance, they didn't show it, just kissed each other lovingly as Keri, Dad, and I threw heart-shaped rose petals.




Mom joined in from under the wedding canopy, adding her wedding cheers and blessings to ours.




As our small group dispersed, Keri grabbed my hands, and looked deeply into my eyes, saying, "Oh, weddings are so joyful, Scott. They bring out such feelings of love, joy, and romance. I don't want this feeling to end!"

"Finding that special someone, committing to them, marrying them, it's pretty special Keri."

Keri's eyes glowed as she added, "I'm so glad you feel that way, Scott!"




And throwing away all the propriety she'd learned from Mom, she dropped to one knee, pulled out a little black box, and blurted, "Scott Swanson, I love you with all my heart and soul! Will you marry me!?!"

My hands flew to my mouth and I stood there, dumbfounded!

I knew I loved Keri and that she loved me, but was I ready for this?

To be engaged?

Wouldn't that be better than being a single father, giving Terrin a mother?

So many thoughts flew threw my mind but when I looked into Keri's eyes, saw the smile lighting up her face, there was only one answer I could give.




I threw my arms around her and said, "Of course, I'll marry you! But you're wearing the ring! My mother would lecture me non-stop if she thought I'd allowed you to do the asking!"

Keri laughed and said, "You don't know her as well as you think, Scott. She said your Dad mucked it all up and if I wanted it done right, I better do the asking!"




Catrice volunteered to watch Terrin so Keri and I could celebrate our engagement, though we felt that she and Josh should be having a more exciting honeymoon than babysitting.

But when we saw her happily playing with Terrin, making him coo and wave his hands, we knew he was in good hands.




Catrice's parting words let us know that she had a bit of an ulterior motive for volunteering for the task, "You two have fun! I need to get in some baby practice now that I'm married!'




We took Catrice's words to heart, strolled over to the Fall Festival and entered the apple bobbing contest against my cousin, Claire Schmidt, and Keri's older brother, Kyle.

We didn't win but we laughed a lot, got pretty wet, and had a great time!




Then we both grabbed something to eat from the food booths, as bobbing for apples had made us ravenous.

After that, we headed to the pumpkin patch to hand-pick some pumpkins as we didn't have any ready for harvesting at the farm.

They sure had some beauties and I vowed to get some planted so had a few available when Terrin was old enough to carve one.




Keri and I even had our first formal photo taken, planning to have copies made announcing our engagement!




As soon as we got back home from the Festival, Josh finalized the sale of the house they'd picked out.

A house up on Sweetapple Ridge Way next to Aunt Kindle's home, where she still lived with my cousin, Tyler, his wife Claire, who's Keri's older sister, and their young daughter, Gracie.

The Ridge was also where Mia and Bella lived, in their respective homes, so all three of my sisters would live close together.




After some pretty tearful goodbyes, Catrice took one last look around the farm, the only home she'd known for her relatively short life.




Josh picked up Ilia and carried her down the porch steps as she was too small to negotiate them herself.




Last but not least, Budge headed out to join them, walking at his own stately pace.

And with a final wave and toot of the bus horn, the Bluegill family headed for their new house, hoping to quickly make it into a loving home for themselves and their two pets.




After their departure, Keri and I watched the stars together.

Cold was seeping up from the ground so we cuddled close on the grass, staring up into a clear sky blazing with stars.

The heavens above us looked close enough to touch and Keri murmured, "That's exactly how I feel, like a sparkling star, one that's found it's purpose, joining my brightness to another's as we embark on a life together."

I smiled at Keri's words, but then my smile faltered as an unwarranted thought burst forth, "But instead of getting to explore all of the infinite possibilities that the stars hold, you'll be living down here on the farm, doing mundane chores. It's not a very exciting life you've committed to."

But Keri's happiness couldn't be dimmed and she continued to smile as she added, "Scott, it's not WHERE you go, or WHAT you do, but WHO you do it with that matters. Mundane chores or exploring the universe, if you do them with love in your heart for another, to make their load lighter, your return is a happiness and joy that has no boundaries."

Keri's words touched me in a way I never expected and filled me with the knowledge that at least one of my many decisions was without flaw, asking her to be my life partner!




Bella and Jeffery are expecting their first child and everyone's excited about having another nooboo in the family.

Grandpa Leonard's already made his first appearance on the farm, and it was nice to see him, even if we didn't get a chance to chat.

Catrice and Josh got married and Keri proposed to me right after their wedding!

Keri and I celebrated our engagement with a date to the Fall Festival.

And then Catrice, Josh, their kitten, Ilia, and their cat, Budge, all piled into Catrice's tour bus and headed to their new home high up on the ridge, just a few houses down from Mia and Bella's homes.

Watching the stars with Keri, she's given me a new perspective; no matter how mundane our everyday life on the farm may be, it's our being together, sharing life's joys, that will make all the difference, and add all the excitement we need for our future here on the farm!

And what could be more exciting, or terrifying, than having my little nooboo, Terrin, become a toddler!?!

Those baby days sure went by fast, but I'm sure his toddlerhood will keep us busier than ever!

[deedee_828]

The weather was getting cooler so the fish were burrowing deeper and deeper into the mud to stay warm,  except for a few stubborn goldfish, which is all I managed to catch when I dropped in a line.

I shot a worried look at the fairy paparazzi hovering nearby but, thankfully, a rustling in the fallen leaves had her looking the other way and I was able to slip it back into the pond without her noticing my meager catch.




Dad finally gave up in disgust and chose to spend some quality time with Terrin.

Rocking him back and forth and just enjoying the nooboo time before his toddler birthday.




The next morning, Keri, dressed in her new fall outfit, tried her hand at making us all breakfast.

Pancakes, of course, because they're easy, but more importantly, her favorite food.

They came out great too, which is no surprise as she'd made them with life fruit!




But it wasn't pancakes I was thinking about when I spotted Bella in the hall, her pregnancy more than just a baby bump!

I'm not a doctor, but she looked quite far along and my nervous glance must have shown my thoughts as plain as day as she smiled and tried to reassure me, saying, "I'm fine, Scott. Don't worry about me, just get Terrin and let's get this party started."




I'm not one for arguing with my big sisters, so I did as she said, and brought Terrin to his cake.




Family soon gathered around us, Josh smiling as he looked on, Mom and Catrice tooting away on party horns.




I placed little Terrin on the floor so he could age up and watched Keri as she joined in and blew enthusiastically on a party horn of her own, while our new maid clapped beside her, happy to share in our birthday celebration.

I knew he was wondering where on earth this green-skinned nooboo had come from, but I was more concerned with how Keri felt about becoming a step-mother the moment we got married.

But watching her join in the celebration so wholeheartedly, I didn't think there was any need to be worried.




But moments later I was the worried one as, surrounded by colored sparkles, Terrin became a toddler!

Was I ready to care for a toddler?

Could I handle the responsibility?




I picked him up a bit nervously, but when his eyes lit up and he laughed delightedly, my heart almost burst with love for the little guy.

That's when Mom mentioned that a diaper wasn't going to work for the cold weather we had and there were proper clothes in the nursery.

I'd lived with Mom's hints for so long it wasn't hard to tell that her words were more an order than a suggestion.




So I quickly took Terrin off to the nursery and got him dressed in very appropriate overalls, a t-shirt, and shoes.

And with a proper head of hair, it was clear that the dark eyebrows he had were not black, like my own, but a deep green, just like his hair!

I know I'm partial, but he sure is a handsome little lad!




Terrin and I quickly rejoined the party, showing off his new big boy outfit.

And his delightful toddler laugh as I tickled him silly!




I settled Terrin down in the living room with a cuddly toy and his smile grew even bigger as he bopped it around on the floor.




Then I rejoined the party, grabbing a piece of cake.

Just as I was about to take my first bite, Keri exclaimed, "Now that we've celebrated Terrin's toddler birthday, it's time we started planning our wedding, Scott. There are so many beautiful wedding themes, I'm not sure which one to choose yet!"

Dad smiled and said, "I'm sure Marley would be glad to help with all the details Keri! Just name the time and place and I'll make sure the groom shows up!"

I just nodded, quickly finished my cake, and mumbled something about getting Terrin down for a nap.




I'd just gotten him tucked in on my old napping mat when Anoki came in, slapped me on the back, then shook his finger in my face and said, "Your single days are numbered, Scott! Once the bride mentions wedding plans, that's all she wrote! Soon your life will be full of color swatches and a myriad of decisions about flowers, decorations, wedding venues…"

I just stared at Anoki in horror and said, "I just figured we'd get married here on the farm, everything's all set up…so what's to decide?"

"Mark my words, Scott. If Keri's heart was set on getting married here on the farm, she wouldn't have mentioned making wedding plans. And since Keri's always looked up to your Mom, you can bet it will be no less than a 'proper' wedding, not one held at the beach in Island casual clothing!"



 
Lucky for me, even though Mom was in the nursery, she was totally focused on Bella and her coming grandchild.

Spouting and cooing baby gibberish to Bella's tummy.

I'd always thought that was pretty ridiculous, but since it was saving me from a discussion about flowers, wedding venues, and decorations, I was grateful for the distraction.




Then Mia called to Mom from the hallway telling her what a great party it was.

Mom quickly headed out and asked, "Leaving so soon? I'm sure Keanu's fine with the sitter. Is it Kamaya? Has her cold gotten worse!?!"

"The kids are fine, Mom. It's just that…I'm feeling a little queasy myself…"

"Queasy as in.."

Mia smiled and gave a quick nod in the affirmative.




Mom pulled her in for a hug and asked, "Why the secrecy?"

Mia kept her voice low and said, "I didn't want to spoil Bella's moment in the spotlight, being the one expecting. I've already had that honor twice! So let's just keep it our little secret for now."

"Of course, dear. That's very thoughtful of you. I won't say a word."

That's when Mia spotted me in the doorway and said, "That goes for you too, Scott."

I was just thankful that all this baby news was keeping Mom pre-occupied and not thinking of 'proper' weddings, so I nodded my head vigorously and said, "No problem, big sister. I'll have my hands full caring for a toddler so no gossiping for me!"




I glanced back into the nursery to see if Bella had possibly overheard Mia's news, but instead of asking me what all the whispering was about, she calmly asked, "Is that taxi I called a few minutes ago here yet Scott?"

"You called a taxi? Any one of us would have driven you home."

"Could you just please check to see if it's here?"

"Sure thing, sis. I'll go see and be right back."




I quickly looked out the front door and there was a taxi waiting out front, so I headed back to the nursery to let Bella know.

But I'd barely made it past the front hall when I saw Bella clutch her stomach and let out a groan!

"Bella! Are you okay!?!"

She panted, "Fi..fine…but I think someone else wants to attend Terrin's party! I'm in labor!"

"Now!?!"

"Now, Scott. Please help me to the taxi!"




Unfortunately, the taxi driver took one look at Bella and ran off down the road!

I was so stunned that when Bella climbed into the driver's seat and yelled, "Scott! Get in!!!" I did what I was told and climbed into the back seat.




It was a wild ride into town with Bella speeding up and then slowing down a bit whenever a contraction hit, but we finally made it to the hospital.

I followed Bella inside as she said, "Jeffery's on his way, but please stay with me, Scott. I don't want to do this alone."

Trying to keep the nervousness out of my voice, I said, "I will, but I'm sure Jeffery will make it in time!"




Moments later, to my relief, I spotted Jeffery rushing towards the front doors.




Just in time too, as James and Jeremy were in quite the hurry to make their appearance!

But with me bringing Bella in, one of the nurses mistook me for the proud papa and sent me off after Bella with a small blue bundle in my arms!




Once Jeffery made sure Bella and their twin sons were settled into a taxi, he rushed back and with a quick wave said, "Thanks for being there for Bella, Scott! It's not every day that an Uncle gets to be in on the delivery of his nephews!"

I sighed in relief now that the emergency was over with and said, "It was definitely a big day for me, Terrin becoming a toddler, being here with Bella to welcome your sons. Our family is sure growing fast."

"Even more so with Mia and Anoki expecting again! At this rate, you're mom and dad will get those 10 grandkids in no time."

"I thought Mia was keeping her pregnancy a secret!?!"

"From her twin that's a doctor!?! She told me she knew the moment Mia walked into the house! And I'm sure it won't be long before Catrice and Josh and you and Keri add to the family!"




I turned to Jeffery and said, "I've got to endure a wedding before that happens!"

"You having second thoughts? Getting cold feet?"

"Not at all! I have no doubts about marrying Keri! It's the wedding I'm worried about, especially with Keri looking up to Mom so much. I was all set for a simple ceremony at the farm, like Catrice and Josh, or a bigger bash like you and Bella had, or even a beach wedding like Mia and Anoki. But it sounds like Keri wants something totally different! And once Mom starts thinking about 'proper' weddings…."

"Well, just hang in there buddy, just nod and smile, do everything they ask, and just keep thinking that it's all for a good cause, to make your Mom and Keri happy."




Terrin became a handsome little toddler.

Bella and Jeffery are now the proud parents of twin sons, James and Jeremy.

Mia and Anoki are expecting their third child.

Our family is growing by leaps and bounds.

But now that Terrin's a toddler, I'm sure my days will be even busier.

Especially with Keri having wedding plans on her mind!

I can only hope that between Terrin and my sisters children, Mom will focus on all her grandchildren instead of a wedding extravaganza.

But who am I kidding?

Mom give up on the idea of a 'proper' wedding for her only son, the heir of Swanson Farm?

I'm just hoping this extravaganza won't take place until Spring, maybe even Summer!

[deedee_828]

I got back home and made myself some dinner, while Kimo watched me like a hawk, hoping I'd drop him a tidbit or two.




But it was Mom and Dad's raised voices in the living room that had me a bit worried.

"I know Keri wants a special wedding, Marley, most brides do, but just don't forget that this is Scott's wedding too! Don't try to make it some big extravagant affair that will make him totally uncomfortable. He's a farm boy from the top of his head right down to his toes! So try and keep it reasonable, no ice swans or doves being released!"

Mom didn't reply for a moment but what she did took me and Dad completely by surprise.




She laughed and said, "No ice swans or flying doves, I can promise you that, Diwan! Keri wants something different from the weddings we've already had, something memorable, a special day that will commemorate the beginning of their married life. Besides, ice sculptures melt too quickly, and doves…well, even the best trained ones I wouldn't want flying over my head, or over the brides gown! But both the Swanson and Loveland families are extensive, so it could end up being a rather large wedding, even if we just keep it to siblings and their spouses. So unless we can find a suitable venue, Scott may just get his Farm wedding after all."

"I know he won't mind that all, but I don't want Keri to be disappointed, not have her wedding day feel special."

"I'll do my best to make it special for her Diwan, without her own mother by her side, as her soon-to-be mother-in-law, I'm the next best thing."

"Best is right! I don't know why I was worried Marley, I should have known you were thinking of Scott too."

"You were worried because he's your child, your only son and heir of the farm, but just remember, he's MY son too. And we'll include him as much as he wants to be included. I'm sure having to pick out color swatches or choose flowers would have him running for the nearest fishing pond in the hills, much like it would his father!"

"You've got that right! But speaking of children…do you think Bella and Jeffery would mind us popping in to see our new grandsons?"

"As grandparents, it would be the 'proper' thing to do, Diwan! Let's go!"




Breathing a sigh of relief that Mom was thinking of me too, I went to the nursery and sat with Terrin as he plunked away on his xylophone.

He wasn't especially musical, but it was fun watching his face light up when he hit the keys with the little wooden baton.




At Bella and Jeffery's Mom and Dad were enjoying their time with the twins.

Playing with them.




Feeding them.




Rocking them to sleep.




And getting them settled into their cribs for the night.




When Mom and Dad got back home, I was crowing excitedly about the trail of flowers Terrin produced as he took his first steps!




It was the most amazing thing to see leaves and white and yellow flowers appear and fade away under his toddler feet as he took tentative steps towards me.

Almost as amazing as the proud look on his face, and mine, as he reached my waiting arms.




After all that walking, we engaged in a tickle session.




Which had Terrin laughing out loud!

Toddler laughter is such a joyous sound.




Then it was a last cuddle.




And off to dreamland for my young son.

He fell asleep quickly and, after tucking him in, I watched over him, my heart almost bursting with the love I felt for him.




The next morning, Mom got in her own tickle time with Terrin, making him laugh just like he did with me.




Then she settled down on the floor with him to teach him a few words.

And we soon realized that, being a PlantSim, Terrin was especially interested in gardening!




Mom was a great teacher and soon Terrin was repeating word after word, food, bandits, benches, school, even the word computer!

But it was love that Mom explained in detail.

Mimi loves Grandad, Grandad loves Mimi, Daddy loves Keri, Keri loves your Daddy, and we all love you, one big happy family!"

And Mom was ecstatic when Terrin said, "Love you Mimi!"




After such a productive lesson, Keri joined Terrin for some musical play time.




With a break in the cold temps, which had the pond teeming with hungry fish, Dad couldn't resist throwing in a line.

He caught a beauty!




That had me joining him and making a respectable catch of my own.

My heaviest red herring so far!




Keri and I shared a meal together that evening, with Keri making sure everything was cleaned up afterward.




But giggles from the living room had us peeking inside, where we found Terrin peeking back at us from inside the toybox!




Keri did the honors that night, got Terrin ready for bed and all tucked in on his sleeping mat.




After that, we enjoyed some romantic time on our own.

When my eyes met Keri's she whispered, "Do you mind Scott, not having a wedding here on the farm?"

I couldn't disappoint her and shook my head, saying, "Whatever makes you happy, makes me happy, Keri!"

Keri gave me a little smirk and asked, "Even if it includes ice swans and doves!?!"




But the smirk quickly left her face when I twirled her around into my arms, and as my lips met hers, whispered huskily, "Even if it includes ice swans and doves! I'll endure even that to make you my wife!"




Terrin's growing so fast and learning things quickly too.

How to talk and walk, leaving a cute little flower trail behind him wherever he goes.

But more importantly he's learning how much he is loved.

And so is Keri, especially since I've promised her she can have whatever wedding she desires.

But I'm seriously hoping it doesn't include ice swans and doves!

[deedee_828]

Before our wedding plans got too far underway and took over everyone's waking thought, I called Elise Pelly and since I couldn't choose, adopted both of Kimo's pups, Max and Lady!

Of course, they were fully grown now and looked very much like Kimo.

Especially Max, who had both Kimo's coloring and his build, whereas Lady had a lighter coloring and a leaner build like her mother, Belle.




Mom was thrilled to have more canine pets on the farm.

And it meant even more that they were Kimo's own offspring that would be keeping him company in his elder years.

She lovingly brushed Max.




And gave Lady a warm welcome too, teaching her how to hunt.




After her hunting lesson, Lady headed straight for the pet food bowls and chowed down.




Keri joined the welcoming committee and got Lady looking fine with her coat all clean and brushed.

Max made himself at home, napping on the living room floor.




Even the family ghosts, Founder Brooke and ghost cat, Kobe, paid us a visit to welcome our new pets.

Lady paid particular attention to our ghostly visitors.




Terrin didn't even let out a peep when Kobe floated nearby, just kept banging away on his toy drum.

Banging being the operative word as the sounds that came from it where far from being harmonious or pleasing to the ear!

But little Terrin enjoyed it so much that the rest of us just endured the racket, hoping he would either lose interest or improve soon.




But instead of losing interest in music, Terrin headed into the nursery to play with his xylophone, under the watchful eye of both of my ghostly grandparents!

Since he'd had more practice with the xylophone, it actually sounded like a song and not just noise and Grandma Rielle was settled into a rocker listening to Terrin's happy little tune.

I took the opportunity to chat with Grandpa Leonard.

"It's so nice to see you Grandpa! And you and Grandma got to visit us together so I'm guessing that things are going well for you in the Netherworld?"

"Very well indeed, Scott! I've kept your grandmother so content that, when I mentioned I was planning a visit, Grim insisted I bring her along, make a date of it!"

Grandma piped up with, "Not because he wanted to do us a favor, only because he knew if I hung around without your grandfather, I'd find something to nag him about! He may be the Lord of the Underworld, but he's easy enough to manage, if you know what buttons to push!"

With that admission, I was glad it was Grim that was on Grandma's hit list and not me, as she'd proven, without a doubt, that if she thinks her family has been wronged, she'll do everything in her power to right that wrong!

Even if it means standing up to Grim himself!

She'd even managed to turn Grim's punishment of taking her early into a reward for Grandpa as he'd lived almost a double elder lifespan!

What a woman!

It wasn't hard to see why Grandpa stayed true to her his whole life and was continuing their relationship in the Netherworld.

I hope the love that Keri and I share grows as deep as that, surpassing even death!




With that thought, I started telling Grandpa all about our upcoming wedding.

That as long as it made Keri happy, I was willing to endure anything, even if it meant ice swans and doves!

Grandpa chuckled and said, "I doubt your proper and frugal mother would want doves, beautiful to look at but, like all birds, messy, and expensive! And Keri's a sensible girl, Scott. I'm sure it will be a beautiful and memorable wedding, but not over the top."

Grandpa's comment had me feeling even better about it as he was right, Mom was proper and frugal.

And Keri was sensible, she even loved the outdoors just like I did, so there was a good chance it would still be held outside, maybe not on the farm, but not in a stuffy, over-decorated wedding venue either!




And Keri proved just how sensible and down-to-earth she is the very next morning.

The weather was still warm for Fall, warm enough that Keri went outside bright and early and played with our latest batch of chicks.

She was just as spellbound as Mom with their peeps and downy softness having her cooing away at them as she gently held one little ball of fluff after another in her cupped palms.




Then she tried her hand at milking our cow.




And she was just as proud of her first bottle of milk as I was!




She was even brave enough to feed the cow some produce, to ensure we got good quality milk.




While Keri was doing all that, I cleaned up the outdoor garden beds, as though it was a bit warmer, most of the plants were covered in a glistening white frost, already dormant.

I did find the occasional head of lettuce or cucumber we'd missed during harvesting, but they weren't in any kind of condition for human consumption now!




The weather was so nice that Lady and Kimo played together in the now empty horse paddock.

Kimo's now adult pups only arrived last night, yet they've already become loved member's of the family, and brought new life back into their father.




Mom couldn't resist talking to Max and building up their friendship.




Since Mom's a dog lover, all it took was a few kind words and a friendly pat.




And a more than welcome belly rub to cement their friendship.




But then Dad surprised Mom with a bouquet of flowers, saying, "Happy Anniversary, Marley!"




And then he had her go get gussied up for a date in town!

Dad cleaned up nice and Mom looked stunning!




And they weren't just going to the diner or the bistro, either.

Dad had made reservations at a new place in town called The Old Mill.

Well, it wasn't exactly new as it had been a working mill at one time, but new owners had turned the place into a Tea House!

And what better place for Dad to take Mom on their anniversary than a classy one where you could order a 'proper' cup of tea!

Even the grounds were amazing!

They'd kept the old mill wheel and added a picturesque arched bridge that spanned the stream.

And not wanting to waste that serene view, they had a lovely outdoor tea area as well as several tea tables in the main room.




Inside, the stone and woodwork were a charming contrast to the elegant tea services scattered around the room.

At least that's what Mom told Dad!

Adding, "And just look at that arched stone fireplace, such craftsmanship and detail! And this tea, well, it's absolutely delicious. What a perfect place, Diwan!"




Mom glanced carefully around the room, her thoughts going a mile a minute, and spotting a buffet table, she gave a little gasp.

"Oh, what a perfectly marvelous idea I've just had!"




Mom was so excited that she jumped up, her face aglow with a wide smile as she said, "I must speak to the manager, Diwan! I think we've discovered the perfect place for Scott and Keri's wedding!"




But it certainly wasn't me and Keri they were thinking about when they got back home.

Mom flew into Dad's arms and kissed him soundly!

Once they came up for air, Mom smiled and said, "That was for the most amazing anniversary ever! And I hope we have many, many, more!"




Kimo's grown pups, Max and Lady, have joined the family and are settling in nicely.

Fall has lessened our gardening tasks but Keri's pitched in and helped out with both the chickens and the cows.

Mom and Dad celebrated their anniversary at The Old Mill, a charming place that's been turned into a Tea House.

And Mom has high hopes that it will be the perfect setting for our wedding!

If the management will allow some renovating to include a wedding arch and seating.

I was concerned at how much time that would take, but Mom and Keri both assured me that since the Fall season has just begun, and we've got Winter to endure, it would be ready just in time for a Spring wedding!

Plenty of time for them to get all the other wedding details in order.

Since I told Keri she could have the wedding of her dreams, I didn't even ask what details, and was glad I'd kept quite as the two of them poured over wedding magazines and checked out websites to pick out the perfect accessories.

Listening to the two of them chat, I even started getting a little excited about all their plans myself.

Especially the part where Keri would be standing by my side, my eager bride!

[deedee_828]

That night was also Spooky Day and Terrin sat with me on the front porch, supervising as I carved my first pumpkin!




Then he toddled inside to see how Keri was doing with her jack o' lantern.




Both of them looked perfect as they flanked our front door, their candles casting an eerie glow over the front entry.




With kids running all over town trick or treating and Terrin too young to participate, Keri and I had spent the rest of the evening together.

I caressed her cheek and told her she was the most beautiful girl in the world…




Then surprised her with flowers, "Happy Spooky Day!"




This had the effect I was hoping for and soon Keri was in my arms, kissing me deeply, Spooky Day and jack o' lanterns forgotten as we were swept away by our passion.




The next morning, I was so happy that I picked Terrin up first thing and tickled him silly!

What more could a guy ask for than to spend a romantic night with his fiancée and hear his son's happy laughter to start off the day!?!




But the day got even better, better than I could have imagined, as Keri led me downstairs to the backroom of the nectary basement.

A room that had previously held empty terrariums, since all of Kobe's and Flynn's catches had passed on long ago.

But now it was a cook's dream kitchen, on the short section, there was a canning station and boxes of canning jars just waiting to be filled with jams and preserves, and a baker's station surrounded by numerous counters the whole length of the adjoining wall!

Complete with cookbooks, flour, a pie from a local bakery and a fancy dessert caddy that already had a few baked goods gracing it's tiered plates, the delicious aroma one of inspiration for any baker.




Keri pulled me into the room and taking by my hands, asked anxiously, "Do you like it, Scott? Your Mom told me that as heir you get to add an expansion to the house as well as the farm, but the kitchen in the farmhouse isn't nearly large enough for canning and baking, so I had them build it down here."

"Like it!?! This is absolutely amazing, Keri! I couldn't imagine a more perfect gift! But it's not even my birthday…"

"It's my wedding gift to you, Scott! Mom Swanson said that it's not done so much anymore, but it's still 'proper'."

"But I didn't get you anything…"

"Why Scott Swanson, of course you did! You gave me this farm, your family, your blessing on the wedding of my dreams, but most of all your love and a son that will soon be mine as well! Those last two alone make me the happiest girl in Appaloosa Plains, the rest is just icing on the cake!"




Mom strolled in with Lady, looking around at all the baking accessories and said, "And Keri not only stuck to the budget I suggested, she managed to do all this well under that amount! Truly a remarkable haggler!"

Keri blushed at the compliment and said, "My family's so large that we know many of the tradesmen in town, and they all knew and loved my mother, so they insisted on giving me hefty discounts. I was pretty surprised at their generosity myself!"

"Grandpa Leonard was friends with a lot of townspeople too. It's amazing how a smile and a kind word will grow when it gets passed on. The pay-it-forward concept really has helped so many people and communities come together to do big things, all stemming from little acts of kindness. To do my part, I'll make sure some of my canned and baked goods find their way into the hands of others, just like our leftover produce does!"

"Oh, what a good idea, Scott! We've got so much here on the farm, sharing our bounty is the least we can do."




I was so eager to try out the canning station, I didn't even remove my coat!

As I added fruit and sugar and stirred my first batch of jam, Keri looked over the room with a smile and said, "I do believe that it was money well spent!"

I agreed wholeheartedly and told her she was well on her way to becoming the perfect farmer's wife, even if we weren't officially wed yet!




The final step of the canning process was carefully removing the full jars from their steaming hot water bath.

The canning station made the whole process quick and easy.




So easy that within a short time, I was looking at my canning shelves with satisfaction, the top row lined with two batches of jam!

One of the reasons that Keri had given me this gift early was so that I could can and bake through the Fall and Winter months, while the majority of our gardens were dormant.

Filling up those shelves and the temperature controlled baked goods display would be the perfect project to keep me busy over those months for many years to come.



 
The canning station had warmed up the room, so I removed my coat and started making my first cobbler.

Mixing it went quickly with everything I needed right on hand, and I was soon pouring the batter over the fruit in the pan.




I popped it into the oven and, in my impatience, checked it several times.




Then I shook my head at my own foolishness and went to check on Terrin.

I found him happily learning new words as Keri continued his speech lessons.

When he saw me he asked, "I ride a bike when bigger, Daddy?"

Hearing him call me 'Daddy' for the first time had my throat closing up so much that I could only nod, but then I realized he was waiting for my answer, so I nodded again and said, "Of course, son, I think a bike would be the perfect gift for your next birthday!"




But birthdays had me thinking of birthday cakes and I remembered my cobbler and rushed back to the basement!

Luckily, it was a perfectly golden brown with the fruit bubbling up through the crust and smelling delicious!

So delicious, I couldn't resist trying a small piece!

As I glanced at my new baker's station, I wondered what other bakery items were possible and promised myself to check on that as soon as I was through taste-testing my cobbler.




Upstairs, Keri was having her own special moment with Terrin, as when she picked him up he asked sadly, "Where my Mommy, Keri?"

We'd never given it a thought that we all called Keri by her given name.

Never even realized that Terrin understood the concept of mommy enough to miss having someone in his life with that title!




Keri hugged him close and said, "Oh, Terrin, please don't fret about that! I love you and your Daddy so much, in my heart, I'm your Mommy!"




Terrin pulled away moments later, a thoughtful look on his young face and said, "So I can call you Mommy?"

"You sweet, adorable, boy, of course you can call me Mommy!"

Terrin pulled at Keri's heartstrings even more when he added, "Terrin loves Daddy and Mommy, and Gampa and Gamma, too, one big happy family!"




And the human members of our family weren't the only ones happy with that arrangement.

Lady and Max had settled into the family so well that it seemed like they'd been a part of it for a long time, not just a few days.

Just look at the two of them companionably chewing on doggie toys in the living room!




Mom and Dad exercising nearby hadn't even disturbed them, no howling along to the stereo at all!

But as Mom and Dad worked out, both of them looking so trim and fit, I realized it would be the last time I'd see them this way.

Tomorrow evening we'd be celebrating their elder birthdays!




With that thought in mind, I hurried back to my baker's station and checked the items that you could make with it.

A variety of cobblers, pies, breads, and rolls, and to my delight, birthday, as well as wedding cake!

I got right to work and whipped up a birthday cake, and placed it carefully in the oven.




It came out golden brown and smelled just as delicious as my cobbler.




When it was finished, it looked just like the ones we buy from the bakery, complete with chocolate frosting, decorations, and candles, but I was hoping it tasted even better!

Mom preferred vanilla icing, which oddly enough, wasn't available, so this cake would be my special gift to Dad for his elder birthday.




Keri surprised me with an early wedding gift, having the back room in the nectary basement made into a cook's dream kitchen, complete with canning station, baker's station, and all the items necessary to make a myriad of items.

Then Terrin surprised me by calling me 'Daddy' for the first time, and asking Keri if he could call her 'Mommy', she was touched by his request and agreed immediately.

It might not be official yet, but as far as Terrin is concerned, we're one big happy family!

The home crafted birthday cake I made for dad's elder birthday isn't as big deal as that, but it's the thought that counts, and I'm sure Dad will appreciate having a non-traditional cake, just like Mom prefers the traditional, 'proper' vanilla cake.

I'll tell you all about it as we're throwing a huge party to celebrate the milestone of Mom and Dad's elder birthdays!

[deedee_828]

The house was filled with family so I grabbed Dad's birthday cake to bring it upstairs and get the party started.




Dad beamed when he saw the cake and said, "You actually made this one, son? It looks just like one from the bakery, quite the professional job!"

"It turned out much better than I thought my first attempt would, Dad! Happy Birthday!"

With those words, I twirled a noise maker and shouted for everyone to join us.




Mia and Bella took up spots behind Dad and immediately started cheering, while I'd switched to a party horn.

Several guests shouted, "Make it a good wish Diwan, last birthday cake and all that!"

Dad seemed a bit startled by that thought, but he'd already blown out his candles, and since he hadn't set the cake on fire, no do overs for him!




Mom waited beside me, and though she kept her eyes downcast, she encouraged Dad saying, "I can't wait to see how handsome you are with grey hair, Diwan! I'm sure you'll make a distinguished elder."




As Catrice tooted a party horn loudly, we almost missed Dad's quip, "I noticed you didn't say 'distinguished gentleman', everyone knows I'm just a plain old fisherman at heart, and now 'old' will be even more apt!"




Before she blew her own party horn, Keri parried, "Your only as old as you feel Dad Swanson and if you're anything like Grandpa Leonard, you'll never really lose the spirit of your youth!"

The young girl beside Keri was so excited she asked, "Now, Miss Keri?"

Everyone was a little puzzled by the interchange, but when Keri replied, "Not yet," we all focused back on Dad.




As he'd gotten back to the business at hand and was his new elder self!

Both my Aunts, Karina and Kindle, along with Mia, seemed shocked by Dad's transformation, though since it was his elder birthday, I wasn't quite sure why.

But then seeing the expression on Dad's face, it looked like he was a bit startled himself.

Maybe it was the powder blue suit and bowtie he was wearing, instead of his classic black one?




But once the initial shock was over and everyone was blowing party horns and cheering for him, Dad got into the spirit of the party and gave himself two thumbs up, saying "Not bad for an old man!"




But before anyone could grab a slice of Dad's cake, Keri stage-whispered, "Now Rae, take it away!"

The young girl jumped up into the chair at the end of the table, all dressed in her Presiding Over the Royal Court outfit, complete with golden crown and scepter held high, and said with authority, "Hold your places, all! Cake will not be eaten until after the birthday girl blows out her candles! I have spoken!"




This announcement was confusing for most of us, but Mom knew a 'proper' introduction when she heard one and stepping before her cake she nodded regally and said, "Thank you, My Lady! You honor us with your presence! As your humble servants, we beg you let us continue the festivities."

I'm not sure who was more surprised by her comment, the young girl, Keri, or Josh, who'd stood immobile at Mom's words, not wanting to interrupt whatever was going on.

But Rae was a real trooper and a fine little actress and she recovered quickly, saying, "Very well then, let the festivities continue."




Mom took her cue and, bending towards her cake, thoughtfully pondered her wish as the young queen looked on, continuing to play her part.

Josh actually relaxed and smiled, relieved that he hadn't ruined the moment.

And Keri's eyes lit up as her little ploy had not only stopped everyone from grabbing cake but, with Mom's participation, had added an unexpected bit of pageantry to the occasion.




Pageantry that continued as the young queen commanded, "You may all cheer now!"

And with the Queen's blessing, cheer we did, including Mom!




But when the big moment arrived and Mom was engulfed in colorful sparkles, our young queen couldn't resist and cheered along with the rest of us.




And when the sparkles were gone, Mom stood before us, the most amazing elderly female we'd ever seen!

From the top of her grey head, still streaked with her signature green and pink highlights, down to the tips of her white gloves!

I think Keri expressed it best when she exclaimed, "You look like a queen yourself, Mom Swanson, a proper regal queen!"

Even Kimo stared as he looked at Mom dressed in such finery.




While most of the family dug into the cakes, Mom totally focused on Catrice, or rather, her coming grandchild, as she chattered away to Catrice's tummy!

My Aunt Karina looked on wistfully, as though her son Bryce had children, none of her three daughters had yet to give her grandchildren.

In fact, all three of her girls were still single.

That's when it struck me that my Aunt Kindle's two daughters were still single too, and only two of her sons, Evan and Tyler, had married and had children.

With that thought, I realized why Mom and Dad were so excited about each coming grandchild, as one never knew if one's children would choose to continue the line.

But with Mom and Dad having five grandchildren already and both Mia and Catrice currently expecting, no worries in our line as the branches were extensive!




It was so cold that a frost had dusted the ground outside, but with the kitchen being overly warm, I opted to go outside and eat my cake, sitting down at a table under the pavilion with Josh.

Josh must have been really hot, or the cold didn't bother him as he'd not even put on a jacket.

My Uncle Ben, Karina's husband, sat at a table nearby and I couldn't help but think that he must be getting up there in age too, and Karina was lucky to still have him around.

My Aunt Kindle hadn't been so lucky as she'd lost her Trevor some time ago, but not to old age.

He'd gone on tour and just didn't return one day, and we'd never heard from him again!

But that was an unwelcome thought on so happy an occasion, and I was glad when Dad and Bella struck up a conversation to divert my thoughts.

"I'm glad the hospital's letting you keep up your medical research at home, Bella, with twins, you'll be off for some time."

Bella laughed and said, "Even longer if Jeffery and I decide to have another child before my leave is up! I never expected to find being a parent so rewarding, and Jeffery feels the same way, so we're seriously considering it! Especially since we'd rather have our kids close together."

At Bella's words, it struck me that Terrin was growing up an only child, and even if Keri and I decided to have a child right after our wedding, there would still be a number of years between them!




Once all the family had left, Keri got Terrin ready for bed and let him play with his drum for a few minutes to wind down after all that excitement of a house full of family.




Then she tickled him just to hear his incredible toddler laughter.




Chatted with him for a bit, telling him what a good little boy  he was.




And gave him one last hug.




Once he'd crawled onto his sleeping mat, Dad got him tucked in.

That's when I noticed the cane!

Dad laughed and said, "If you think this is funny, wait until you see your mother with the gift I got her!"




But once I'd fallen asleep, Keri tucked in beside me, my dreams were filled with wedding rings and wedding bells!

Maybe it meant Keri and I shouldn't wait for Spring to get married?




But seeing Mom using Dad's gift had the thought going clear out of my head!

They'd both bought each other canes!

And instead of laughing them off as a joke, they both started using them!




But being old enough to warrant a cane didn't stop Mom from making her way down to the nectary basement and checking on her precious grapes.




Or even planting a few more.




I know Mom was hoping for a Spring wedding at The Old Mill, but is that even feasible?

With both my parents elders now and using canes, no less!

And me dreaming about weddings!

Maybe I should discuss moving up the wedding with Keri?

Especially with Terrin getting older everyday, wanting a mommy, and growing up an only child!

One things for sure, with my thoughts in a jumble, I should have plenty to write about!

Even if it's just to help me sort it out.

[deedee_828]

Finding Terrin awake, Dad picked him up and asked, "Want to go outside and try out your new toy, little man?"

Dad's question had Terrin bouncing in his arms excitedly exclaiming, "Outside, outside!"




Dressed warmly in his outerwear Terrin gleefully rode his new buckin' bronco spring rider!

Seeing the look on Terrin's face and Dad's thumbs up as he grinned and said, "That's it, little man, you're a natural! Just look at you go," I'm not sure who was  enjoying the activity more, Terrin or Dad!




With Mom busy in the nectary garden and Dad and Terrin outside playing, I took the opportunity to have a private conversation with Keri.

"Since we haven't even had breakfast and you waited until everyone else was out of the house to talk to me about it, I'm guessing this idea of yours is important, Scott?"

I took a deep breath and then took the plunge.




"I know Terrin's already calling you Mommy, but I dreamt about our wedding last night. I think it's a sign that we should get married sooner rather than wait until Spring!"

"A sign? Do you really believe in stuff like that?  Signs, portents, dreams foreshadowing upcoming events?"




I scooted closer to Keri, wrapped my arms around her, and looking deeply into her eyes, said, "I've always been much to practical for that, being an angler, cook, and gardener, but dreaming about our wedding last night… It made me realize just how much I love you, Keri!  How much I want to make you my wife, make you Terrin's mother, officially make us a family!"




Keri placed a sweet kiss on my lips and snuggled up to me, her words soft and filled with love, "Oh, Scott, when you put it like that, I don't want to wait any longer either!"




That afternoon Keri and I drove over to The Old Mill to see if it was feasible to still have our wedding there.

Our first look at the place had me nodding and Keri sighing saying, "Oh, even the outside is romantic, like something out of a fairy tale. Just look at that bridge over the mill stream. Even if the place isn't available for a formal wedding, maybe we could get permission to have a private one on that bridge…"

"Possibly, but let's see if the Swanson reputation can provide some clout to have the wedding of your dreams!"




Keri tried the tea first thing and said it was delicious.

But more importantly, the manager said if we didn't mind the weather being a bit chilly, the back deck could be cleared of tea tables and set up for a small wedding.

For a price, of course!

But when he realized who I was, he decided he'd rather barter the venue for some of my desserts, to expand the menu from just tea to include a high tea on the weekends!

If sims around town liked them, then he'd pay for my desserts after that.

That sounded like the perfect way to get my desserts noticed around town and we knew Mom would love the idea of such a bargain!



 
On our way out, I met Bella, a very pregnant Bella, who was taking their new puppy, Sassy, out for her first outing.

And then decided she needed to get off her feet and enjoy a restorative cup of tea.

She did look pretty uncomfortable.




But when she found out Keri and I were getting married at The Old Mill on Saturday, she went from exhausted to ecstatic in no time flat!

"I'm due soon, but hopefully I can make it, this place is perfect for a wedding!"




Keri took one last look around and smiling, agreed, "It is, isn't it Bella!?! The tea tables, the buffet, so romantic and intimate, it's the perfect place for the wedding of my dreams!"

Seeing Keri looking so happy had me smiling too as I said, "Marrying Keri fulfills my dreams all by itself, but getting married out on the back deck in the great outdoors, that's a bonus that makes this place truly perfect, for both of us!"




On the way out I heard the sound of rushing water and couldn't believe our luck, even with the sun setting, the temps were warm enough to melt the ice by the mill wheel!

I called Mom and told her all our good news, that we'd made a deal to use the place this coming Saturday and that the stream had even thawed, a promise of warmer weather on it's way.

Then I told her that we'd met Bella here and that she'd be adding to her family any day now!




That news had Mom leaving Terrin under Dad's watchful eye as she raced over to Bella's to check up on her!

Mom's smile couldn't have been wider or happier as she said, "Just look at you! All motherly again with that special glow!"

Bella frowned a bit and said, "I wouldn't mind the motherly glow if it didn't also include an aching back and sore feet! And feeling exhausted, especially caring for the twins while Jeffery's responding to one emergency after another! Great-Grandpa Dean's pyro gene can't be the only thing responsible for all the fires in this town!"




Mom gave Bella a hug and said, "There does seem to be an unusual increase in fires lately, but I can't do anything about them that would allow Jeffery to spend more time at home. But I can help you out. You get off your feet, take a nap, and I'll watch the twins!"

"Oh, Mom, a nap sounds heavenly. I'll crash in one of the rockers upstairs, so I'll  be close by if you need me."




Mom watched Jeremy playing with his peg box for a bit, but then she heard a whimper from the next room.




James had woken from his nap and wasn't happy to find himself all alone.

But when Mom picked him up, he was all smiles, "Grammie, Grammie!!!"




And his laughter was even louder when Mom tickled him, so Mom was grateful that Bella had chosen to nap upstairs in a rocker and not in her bed, which was in the same room as the twins' cribs.

Bella and Jeffery's house was modern architecture at it's finest, but with it having several wings, not quite practical for raising a family.

Not until they children were older anyway, and could sleep further away from their parents.




Not long after that, Jeffery got home and got James settled on his new napping mat.

Giving Mom a chance to spend time with Jeremy.




But it was getting late, so she got Jeremy ready for bed and all tucked in on his napping mat too.

As busy as Bella and Jeffery are with just their twin sons, I'm not sure what they're going to do when the new baby shows up!




Instead of going straight home, Keri and I extended our outing to include a movie, going on a real date, something we hadn't done in awhile.

Afterward, Keri exclaimed, "Oh, Scott, what a wonderfully romantic day. Going to The Old Mill, seeing a happily-ever-after movie together, and knowing we're getting married Saturday! I don't think I've ever been happier!"




My eyes gleamed as I whispered, "Let's see if I can make this night even better," and I pulled her towards me and kissed her passionately!

Keri's sighs were a good indication that I had succeeded!

Though afterward, spotting that nosy paparazzi, I'm afraid our public make-out session will hit the paper and be gossip for days to come!




But that didn't stop of us from continuing our romantic evening watching the stars.

Keri and I got so caught up in pointing them out to each other, that the theater personnel locked up the place and went home!




With everyone deep asleep on the farm, Keri and I kept the romance going snuggling together in the hot tub.




A secluded, private spot that let us indulge our passion!




Keri and I are both floating on cloud nine after spending an entire day and night together, one filled with love, romance, and passion!

And with our wedding scheduled to take place Saturday at The Old Mill, this is only the beginning of our happily-ever-after!

[deedee_828]

Friday morning, while I was brushing Lady, Terrin threw his first tantrum!

I guess spending pretty much the whole day without me or Keri was a little unsettling for him.

But with our wedding tomorrow, he was going to be spending most of today with Dad too, as Mom, Keri and I were going to be busy with wedding plans.




So I tried to make things better by spending some time with him now.

A diaper change and clean clothes, along with some tickles, had his mood improving dramatically!




And I went off to the library with him and Dad to make sure he would be okay.

Terrin was so excited by the toddler book Dad started reading to him, he didn't even pay any attention to me at all.




And being at the library, Terrin picked up on reading super fast.

So fast that he was soon reading the toddler books all by himself!




Giving Dad a chance to get in some reading of his own.




That was the plan anyway, until Dad discovered Bella downstairs, reading a book, along with Karina and her daughter-in-law, Lynn Loveland Schmidt!

And this time Bella hadn't brought Sassy along.




She'd brought Jeremy!

Who was just thrilled to see Dad, especially when it involved tickles.




And Dad took the opportunity to read a toddler book with Jeremy too.




Then Dad read a few more books with Terrin before heading back home to the farm.




And we had an unexpected guest, one of Max's puppies with Snaggles Hobble had found it's way to the farm!

Meet Razzle everyone!

Or maybe Brooks…

I'm not sure which puppy this is, but now Max has his own daughter and son, ensuring Kimo's line for another generation!

You can just imagine how thrilled Mom was with this news!

She even let out a whoop or two, before she caught us smirking, and turned back into her proper sedate self.




Though finding Max on the back porch playing in trash had Mom going from whooping over puppy news to scolding Max soundly!

"Bad dog! Bad Max! No playing in trash! Not only did you make a mess of the porch, but you stink!"




But Mom can't stay mad at anyone for very long, her canine friends included, and soon she was petting Max and saying, "Sorry, I yelled at you boy. It didn't take that long to clean up the mess and I'll make sure your food dish is full from now on!"




After their long day at the library, Dad and Terrin had some dinner.

And while Dad showered, Mom watched Terrin play with his xylophone.




With Terrin all ready for bed in his pajamas, Mom let him watch a fishing show with Dad.

Dad chatted away to Terrin about all the different fish he could catch, even in our little pond on the farm.




While I relaxed reading another recipe, content knowing that everything was all set for our wedding tomorrow!




Then I braved the cool back deck to try out my new recipe, grilled salmon, my favorite.

But hearing a high pitched bark, I spotted Razzle out on the lawn or maybe it was Brooks this time.

So instead of getting to eat my first batch of grilled salmon, grilled to perfection, I might add, I ended up playing puppy catcher.

It's amazing how fast they can run, even on slippery ground!

But I finally corralled the little devil and got the puppy back to it's mother.




When I got home, a commotion had me running upstairs to see what was going on.

Mom was standing in her nightgown, next to the bed, looking a little stunned, "I woke up and went to the bathroom and when I got back, the bed was off the floor."

Perplexed I said, "Mom…it's a hover bed…it's supposed to be off the floor. Maybe you had a bad dream…"




"Scott Leonard Swanson, I know it's a hover bed, I'm not senile or dreaming! Just look at it! It floats but not sideways like that! I think it's malfunctioning!"

As those words left Mom's mouth, the bed's head board flipped out of the wall and tilted crazily to the side!

"You're right, Mom! Get away from that thing!"

"I'm not leaving you in this room alone with it! You're getting married tomorrow! Keri would never forgive me if something happened to you! Neither would your father! I wouldn't forgive myself. What kind of a mother would I be if I left you in a room with something dangerous!"




So I dashed into the hall with Mom following close behind me!

As I turned to help Mom escape, I noticed a familiar small red head with white glowing eyes peeking out from under the bed.

The sight had me gasping in surprise.




Which had Mom turning around too.

Just in time to see one of our family ghost cats, Kobe, drift out more fully, but not from under the bed, from inside it!

Mom huffed out an indignant, "Well, at least we know the bed isn't broken, it was just possessed."

I was still trying to wrap my head about what had just happened when Mom said, "Now that the excitement is over, I'm going back to bed. Tomorrow is a big day and I need my rest. And so do you. Now off to bed!"

Mom's voice was so firm, I meekly replied, "Yes, ma'am."




I crawled into bed and Keri snuggled up behind me, her breath warm against my back.

Mostly asleep, she murmured, "Sunny day…for wedding…sunny day…"

And my last thought before I fell asleep myself was that tomorrow Keri and I were getting married!




Terrin had his first tantrum, followed by a trip to the library with Dad; Terrin's first outing.

Razzle and Brooks, Max's puppies visited the farm, their first outings, though not with permission!

Max made a mess with trash, hopefully for the first and only time.

I made my favorite meal, grilled salmon, for the first time, and it came out perfect.

And Mom and I were freaked out by ghost cat Kobe's first possession; especially since it was Mom and Dad's huge hover bed!

But tomorrow is the big day as Keri and I are getting married at The Old Mill!

Even escaping puppies and a ghostly cat can't top that!

[deedee_828]

Saturday dawned clear and warm, not a hint of frost on the ground, except for the garden plants, definitely a positive way to start our wedding day!

Mom got Terrin all cleaned up and dressed in his cute little suit.

And once Mom was ready, looking all prim and proper, they headed outside to wait for the limo.




Soon Dad and I joined them, both of us dressed in our best formalwear.

I didn't think I was nervous until my phone started ringing and I nearly jumped out of my skin!

Especially after finding out that it was Jeffery calling letting us know that he and Bella were the proud parents of another set of twins, a boy, Jordan, and a girl, Jasmine!

Mother and babies doing fine, but attending the wedding wouldn't be possible.

I assured him that we understood, but then Bella grabbed the phone and said, "Jeffery will be there, I insist! There's nothing he can do here at the hospital and he really needs a chance to unwind. Between work, the twins, and my pregnancy, and now another set of twins…well, he probably won't get the opportunity to do something fun for a long time!"

Since Bella was being unusually emotional, not surprising after giving birth, I quickly agreed to whatever she wanted.




Which is how Jeffery ended up at our wedding on his own, looking dapper enough to be the groom.

That's when he confessed that his suit was the one he'd worn to his own wedding!

His life was so busy, he'd forgotten to buy another formal outfit.




But Bella wasn't the only one that couldn't attend our wedding.

Moments before, just after we arrived, we saw Catrice racing towards the stone arch of The Old Mill.

Once she got her breath she said, "I can't stay, I just wanted to offer my congratulations…"

Mom's voice was filled with censure as she said, "You can't stay? But you're already here…"

Catrice's eyes grew big as she covered her mouth with her hand and squeaked, "Sick…"

Mom was all concern now as she asked, "Oh, you shouldn't have come out then…"

Catrice's lips curved into a whisper of a smile as she said, "Not that kind of sick…morning sickness! I'm pregnant again! But I wanted to get a peek at the Bride in her gown. I really didn't want to miss the wedding. But I don't want to ruin it either…"

Mom couldn't contain her joy at the idea of another grandchild and interrupted with, "Which is why you can't stay! Totally understandable! Congratulations! And pass them on to Josh…"

"Oh, you can do so yourself! We only live down the road, but he's insisting on driving me home, and then he'll come back!"

Catching a glimpse of Keri in her wedding gown, Catrice gasped and said, "Oh, Keri!!! What a beautiful dress! You are the picture of the perfect bride! Congratulations!"




Looking at one of Keri's formal wedding photos, I knew I was probably biased, but I couldn't help but agree!

Keri was the picture-perfect bride, so gorgeous she could have graced the cover of a magazine!

And what was even better was knowing that the soft, loving glow on her face, in her eyes, was for me.




Mia showed up as Mom was bringing Terrin out to the back deck.

But a sob behind me had me turning to see who was in such pain!




It was my Great-Aunt Karina, who'd come to our wedding despite still being in mourning for her dearly beloved Benjamin.

He'd passed just a day ago, so we really hadn't expected her to attend.

But maybe she needed family around her, to take her mind off losing him, if only for a few minutes.




Keri must have had the same thought as she met me under the wedding arch to get the ceremony started.

Quickly sliding the band of gold onto my finger.




And saying her vows, "I, Keri Loveland, take thee, Scott Swanson, to be my lawfully wedded husband, and your son, Terrin, to be my son, the son of my heart. To love and to honor both of you, from this day forward a family, a family I promise to love and protect with all of my being, heart, body, and soul."




Then it was my turn, and clasping Keri's hand in my own, and placing a matching band upon her finger, I intoned, "Keri Loveland, with this ring I thee wed, making my son, Terrin, and I, not only the happiest two guys on earth, but a family, with a wife and mother whose smile and words can add sunshine even on the darkest day. From this day forward, I promise to love and cherish you, to honor this commitment, for better or worse, in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, to the end of our days and beyond, as I become your husband and have the honor of calling you my wife."




Our family cheered, and threw heart-shaped petals as Keri and I shared the sweetest, most memorable kiss.

Our first kiss as husband and wife, as Mr. and Mrs. Scott Swanson!




But then our nephew, Keanu, piped up with, "Is it time for food and drinks yet? I'm starving!"

Terrin caught one word and bounced up and down repeating, "Food, food!!!"

Even though he'd never had any food in his life as PlantSims absorb nutrients ambiently.




Some of the guests laughed at the kids' words, others shouted congratulations as they threw another handful of petals.

But even with all that going on around us, Keri and I were only thinking about each other and being married!

Mom had already headed inside to make sure the buffet was properly set up to her very stringent standards.




As Mom perused the buffet table, grabbing a plate of spaghetti, she noticed that it was the most popular dish, with several servings already missing.

I have to admit, Mom shares her favorite food with a lot more people as I prefer salmon.

I'm sure that's why she insists on spaghetti being on every buffet, either at home or at a destination party, like this one.




Keri opted for salad, choosing a table by the window.

Even eating she looked amazing!




Then Mom joined her as Keri said, "This salad is so fresh! This can't be store bought!"

Mom beamed, "Home grown makes all the difference! I made sure we had everything we needed for it planted in the nectary gardens. And when you and Scott moved your wedding up, I just helped them along with some sunflower blossoms."

"I have a feeling the manager is going to want to make a deal for our fresh fruits and veggies too. Have you mentioned your fabulous nectar to him?"

Mom blushed as she admitted, "I might have slipped in a few bottles when I gave them the basket of vegetables! They can't serve nectar here yet as they don't have a license. But after he samples it, I'm betting he applies for one right away!"

"I'm not taking odds on that bet unless they're in your favor!"

"Wise girl!"

Then Mom dropped her joking attitude and said, "Keri, I know you've lived with us for some time now, but I just wanted to welcome you into the family. And to let you know that Diwan and I think of you as a daughter, and if you feel comfortable doing it, only if you feel comfortable, we'd love for you to call us, 'Mom' and 'Dad'.

Keri said, "That means a lot! I think of you that way all the time, especially after I lost my own mother. Ariel does her best, but she's still a sister, not a mother. Not like you…Mom."

I'd planned on joining them but I didn't want to spoil the moment, my wife and my mother bonding, a relationship that had started back when Keri was a teen, one that had started off a little rocky but soon became one of mutual respect and love.




My hesitation had one of my cousins, Rae Gallo, pushing past me, sitting down in my seat, and pouring tea!

Then it struck me that though Rae's father is my cousin, Evan Gallo, her mother is Ariel Loveland, Keri's sister, so Rae was actually Keri's niece!

But even that relationship wasn't going to save the poor girl as Mom froze at this improper intrusion as even I know that the bride and groom sit together.

I did an about face as I wasn't about to listen in on a lecture about manners on my wedding day.




And then I sat at the only available table, by myself!

But Keri shot me a glance and mouthed, "I love you. I'm going to get Terrin now."

I nodded and couldn't resist a contented smile as I knew what was coming.




Dad had a cup of tea too, but it was Keri who had my complete attention when she picked up Terrin and held him close, saying, "It's official now Terrin, you're my son, and I'm your mommy!"

Then she added, "But this isn't just our wedding day, our first official day as a family, it's another important day too."




She placed Terrin on the floor and stepped away, just as sparkles surrounded him.




Because our wedding day was also Terrin's birthday!

Keri and I felt it was more than appropriate as that made both days even more special.

A day we could all look back on with happiness and joy!

Even Great-Aunt Karina, who's tears had subsided, grabbed a teapot and said, "Happy Birthday, Terrin! That calls for another cup of tea!"

Being with family on such happy occasions really had helped alleviate the pain of her loss.




We didn't have a birthday cake, or a wedding cake either for that matter, somehow they weren't allowed on community lots.

(Mom said she be discussing that with the powers that be at City Hall, but I have a feeling the issue goes higher up than that.)

Terrin didn't seem to mind about the cake at all as he doesn't really need to eat.

But he still dug into the pumpkin pie with enthusiasm, exclaiming, "This is delicious! Now I see why Keanu was in such a hurry to get to the food!"

Once Terrin finished his pie, we all headed home, thankful that The Old Mill staff would be doing the cleaning up.




But I wasn't letting my bride's perfect wedding end without a dance.

I took Keri into the living room, turned the radio to a slow song, and swept Keri into my arms!




That led to hugging and kissing, with some frisky tickles too.

Prompting Keri to say, "You devil! You know I'm ticklish there!"

And then she grabbed me by the hand and dragged me off to our bedroom!

I guess Keri hasn't lost all of her inappropriateness after all.

All I can say about that is, "Lucky me!!!"




The weather cooperated and Keri got the wedding of her dreams.

The wedding party afterwards was a huge success and ended with Terrin's child birthday.

But it's not the ending at all, it's the beginning of our life together as a family!