#R0805

[changingplumbob]

Pancakes Household: Chapter 8, Part 3

In this part Bob works on increasing his fame despite being a loner, but mainly it is Iggy's party! Time to join the teen world. The rolled traits/aspiration are set to be... a ride (I didn't mean that as a pun, but when you read you'll understand it kind of works as a pun).

For clarity Bob's nickname for Eliza is Jumble, and Eliza's nickname for Bob is Sleek. I'll try to capitalise them when they're being used as names to make any translations easier.

Harvey: We better head home, mum will have finished her next art piece by now

Carson: Thanks for having us Mrs Pancakes

Eliza: You’re welcome. Iggy dear, before you run off can you help clean up?

Iggy: Fine. But I’m still rebelling

Eliza: Whatever you say

Fergus: Ginger all you have to do it lie down, you do it all the time, just lie down

Ginger: *barks* kid is treating me like an idiot

Everyone else has contributed to laundry duty today except Bob so it’s up to him to hang it all up. He then works on a blue confetti cake for Iggy’s party tomorrow, never sure why birthday cakes don’t improve his baking skill. He had elected to take the day ff work but having done everything he wanted to do at home 2 hours into his shift he decides to head to work anyway, got to impress the bosses.

On his last night as a child Iggy spends some time on the tiny violin while Fergus, outside the gaze of his parents, dominates his homework. He may be rebelling but as a grade A student he does like to do it. Eliza can finally make some business calls, the opportunities always pop up at the most bizarre times. Since she’s still very dazed it doesn’t go well, and she takes Bob’s advice to lie down.

Bob: Shift was crazy. I-

Eliza: I’m awake! I’m awake

Bob: *chuckles* sure you are

Eliza: What were you saying Sleek?

Bob: That critic came back so instead of the mac and cheese I did the lobster dish. He approved but I know he was wanting more cheese

Eliza: Did you bring me leftovers

Bob: Not today. Let’s go to sleep

Eliza: But woohoo! I like woohoo!

Bob: Jumble you’re still smoking, and sound exhausted. I know you’ll want to be awake for the party tomorrow. You need sleep

Eliza: *sighs* Spoilsport

Bob: Happy birthday!

Iggy: Thanks dad. Are you sure I can’t just age up now

Bob: If you do that you can’t go to school today

Iggy: Exactly!

Eliza: No one is missing school. And no one is missing their own birthday party

Fergus: Remember, if you don’t like any of your presents, I’ll take them

Eliza: Will you take today off work

Bob: No, I’ll have time to party before my shift. How about you

Eliza: I need to take the day or I’ll miss the party

Bob and Eliza both feel the need to exercise, they are active sims after all. While Bob volunteers to brave the rain to take Ginger for a jog, Eliza, who is not a fan of getting rained on, uses the exercise machine on the deck. Afterwards she’s pleased to discover her husband hung the washing up properly and takes down the now dry laundry.

Bob: Hello followers. Today we will be doing some lobster. First step, as always, prep. Prep your workspace, prep your ingredients, prep your cooking attitude!

The drone beeps that more viewers have tuned in.

Bob: Now lobster is expensive, not all of us can afford it. We’re lucky that here in Brindleton Bay there’s a fresh supply at a reasonable price. Next time we’ll look at how to get the best flavour for your fish, no matter how fancy, so be sure to tune in!

Bob: Remember guys, putting the dish in the oven is not like reaching the end of a book. You can always take the meal out as it cooks to add more flavour, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do!

The drone beeps to show Bob has gained more followers.

Bob: Thanks for subscribing everyone. Believe me I’m doing much better than if you were here in person. And at long last, our meal! Sparkling with excellence. But we’re still not at the end of the book guys! Final step, as my wife often tells me, is to clean up! If you’re like me, you hate it, but it’s important to keep your kitchen sanitised.

Eliza: Great stream jumble, I kept the computer open to it while Aaron was helping me with my debating

Bob: Please tell me it was on mute

Aaron: You’re better than you give yourself credit for Bob

Bob: I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t need the fame for promotion

Eliza: Charisma is always a beneficial skill

Bob: Don’t mind me, I’m going to start the next book

Aaron: You mentally prepared for your oldest to be a teenager

Eliza: Not even close

The kids get home and it looks like it’ll be an indoor party.

Iggy: Carson, take a picture with me before the height difference confuses the camera

Bob: Cake is up! Where’s the birthday kid?

Iggy: Right here dad

Eliza: Make a wish

Iggy thinks for a minute, then blows out the candles!

Iggy roles the ambitious traits from their parents, but since that can’t be applied as a teen, it’ll be the YA trait. So a reroll lands the horse lover trait, as well as the joke star aspiration despite a weakness for comedy. We have our third pansexual Pancakes and they also rolled being genderfluid. I’m going to do my best googling and rereading of Lumpinou’s LGBTQIA mod notes to hopefully represent them accurately.

The cake goes down a hit and the guests tuck in. Bob has to go to work but Iggy pulls him aside before he leaves.

Iggy: Before you go dad, I just want you to know…

Bob: Yes?

Iggy: I’ve been thinking, about myself and.. I’m pansexual

Bob: Awesome! Just like me and your mother

Iggy: Wait, you’re pan?

Bob: Yeah. Everyone always forgets because we’re in a straight presenting relationship, but we are. I got to head off but I love you buddy, thanks for opening up

Iggy watches their dad go and has mixed feeling about not having time to broach their gender.

Iggy returns to their party and mingles around their friends, trying to get as many selfies as they can to cement themselves as a teenager.

Iggy: I’m so excited to see what high school is like

Amie: Don’t be, it’s not very exciting

Angel: Well I like it

Iggy: Since I already became a llamacorn scout I’m thinking of joining the cheer squad

William: Not football

Iggy: So I can get hit in the face constantly? I don’t think so. Anyway, I’ll see you all tomorrow, okay?

Darwin: Sure thing, later Pancakes

With the party done Iggy heads to the study where Eliza helps them tackle their homework.

Iggy: But what do they mean? Since when is pie a chart

Eliza: Don’t worry, your dad would get stuck but I know all about that

They both stumble through it and Iggy sighs in relief when it’s done.

Eliza: Are you okay? You just aged up with high confidence but you seem downcast

Iggy: It’s just a lot to adjust to mother

Eliza: Want to tell me about it? Sometimes a problem seems less big if you get it out of your head

Iggy: Well I told dad before he left but, I’m pan. He said that was just like the two of you

Eliza: Oh you bet! I like a nice ass, no matter the identity of the person it belongs to

Iggy: OMW mother! It’s hard enough to go from not thinking about romance to suddenly having all these attraction thoughts without hearing about what you find attractive

Eliza: Sorry. I’m just glad you shared this with me. Come give me a hug son

Iggy leans in to her hug, but ultimately has to pull back.

Eliza: What is it?

Iggy: I’m not exactly your son

Eliza: Oh?

Iggy isn’t to sure what to say next but Eliza gives their hand a reassuring squeeze.

Iggy: I’ve realised I’m not a guy. At least, not all the time. I’m this thing called genderfluid, I don’t know if you know about it…

Eliza: If it’s part of you, I want to learn. I promise to listen

Iggy: Okay mother. So you know how most people will have a gender identity and stick to it? I don’t. Some days I’ll feel like your son, some days I’ll feel like your daughter, some days I’ll feel like I’m somewhere inbetween.

Eliza: Who are you today Iggy? Oh shoot, should I call you Iggy? I can change if you want me to

Iggy: *laughs* Hey mother, this is new for me to, we’re both bound to make mistakes. Today is very much a they/them day though

Eliza: Come here then my child

Iggy: *laughs* you sound silly

Eliza: Hey now, if it’s to make you feel happy and safe, I’ll sound as silly as… well, a thing that’s ridiculously silly

Iggy: Socks and jandals

Eliza: *laughs* As silly as socks and jandals

They hug and Iggy feels a weight lifted. They might just float to the roof if Eliza lets go.

Eliza: You may be on the cheer squad, but I’ll always be your biggest cheerleader okay? So will you dad

Iggy: About that, can you tell him? I don’t know how

Eliza: *sighs* I’m afraid you’re going to come out to people for the rest of your life. It’s a side effect of being in a mostly straight cis world. It can help to tell those that love you first, and your dad loves you. I will if you want me to but please consider telling him yourself, I know he’d appreciate it

Iggy: I guess I could practice by telling Fergus, and if that doesn’t blow up in my face I’ll tell dad in the morning

Eliza: That’s my brave- my brave kid. Come on

Fergus is in the lounge trying his best to build a fake volcano. Eliza and Iggy both settle down to help. The three chat and with time Iggy relaxes enough to talk properly to Fergus.

Iggy: Fergus, I got to tell you something. I’m not your brother today

Fergus: You’re not? Why? Did I annoy you too much? I tried to keep quiet at the party

Iggy: No, no. It’s not that. It’s just… I’m not a boy today

Fergus: Oh. Are you a girl then?

Iggy: No, I’m not really either today, and kind of both. But I’m still your sibling. They/them pronouns just feel more like me today

Fergus: Okay. Are you still Iggy

Iggy: I’m not sure. Definitely not when I’m a girl. Maybe I should come up with another name

Eliza: Whatever you choose, we’ll call you. Right Fergus?

Fergus: You bet. Now can we please get back to the lava?

What do you know, both the conversation and the volcano do not blow up in Iggy's face!

Iggy decides to do a workout before bed as they like fitness, but don’t feel like trying somersaults on their cheer mat before bed. Then they head upstairs to their touched up room. We have changed wall colour, as well as the bed and desk to reflect their like of the farmhouse deco style. The bookcase has also been moved to an easier to see position.

Bob: I’m back, let’s go to bed

Eliza: Gladly. But hey, your eldest child wants a chat with you tomorrow before school

Bob: Sounds ominous, I’m in

Previous Part ... Next Part

[jotaro-hoards-belts]

Ocean Star you sure have an... interesting way of speaking (aka how did you make that sound with your mouth—)

Ocean Star: 17′5 7H3 R080 V01C3 Y0. 17 JU57 50UND5 L1K3 7H47. 47 L3457 F0R M3. 50M3 R0805 PR085 G07 17 B3773R.

Ocean Star: P30PL3 D0 S4Y 17′5 H4RD 70 UND3RST4ND M3 47 F1R57 8U7 L1K3 7H3N P3R15H????????

[changingplumbob]

Pancakes Household: Chapter 8, Part 5

In this part Bob tries another food sale and gets ready for his birthday. Eliza takes they day off and they celebrate him becoming an adult. Lastly Onyx has a new dream. Contains some sim spice, as usual no pixel private parts are shown.

Bob takes Ginger out for their regular run and decides to stream it to try increase his fame. He needs fame for promotion and a level 10 career is his dream. I take the opportunity to enjoy the views of the bay, as everyone else is at work or school.

Back home he washes his hands before beginning some more baking. The bench quickly becomes filthy but he reminds the camera that as long as they don’t dump the mixture on the counter, it’ll be fine. When Fergus and Onyx get home they both quicky skim through their homework before their after school activities. Good news today, Onyx has reached A student level! Will they be able to keep it with their cheer commitments though?

Bob: Let’s see here

Onyx: Later dad, I’m heading to practice

Bob: Good luck! Okay, everything is arranged. Come one, come all, we have fudge bars!

Before the sale gets too underway however the drone malfunctions. Bob has been using it a lot lately. Guess he will just have to charm customers by himself.

It seems like Bob may be inspiring some loyalty. The first few customers are all ones that purchased snacks from him at the dog park! Onyx arrives home and resists the temptation to grab a lemon bar for free. Fergus also arrives back from drama club at the same time and can talk to Briana who came around after school. She is not having a good day so Fergus tries to cheer her up with some jokes.

Eliza arrives home and has a proud wife moment when she sees all the sims keen to try Bob’s baking. Inside it’s grand meal leftovers for everyone. Following dinner while Bob is still doing his sale, Eliza heads to the computer to file reports for work, gaining level 4 in the entrepreneur skill. Onyx spends time practicing on the cheer mat and reaches level 2 fitness. Fergus plays on the treehouse with Briana and reaches level 9 creativity skill.

Bob: Guess who made 250 simoleons on their day off work? This guy

Eliza: Well done. Are you excited for your birthday tomorrow? I’m going to take the day off work

Bob: Why?

Eliza: *laughs* Because it’s your birthday

Eliza has to head to bed but Bob still has some energy. He teaches Ginger how to fetch then carries her inside to save her little legs the trouble.

Light begins to peak over the horizon and Bob and Eliza are snuggled together.

Eliza: Happy Birthday Sleek

Bob: *sleepily* Happy birthday to you

Eliza: *giggles* your birthday, not mine

Bob: My birthday? That must be why I’m waking up next to a drop dead gorgeous woman

Eliza: Bob, I’m not that-

Bob: You are beautiful Jumble, inside and out. Thanks for sticking with me through it all. I love you so much

Eliza: And I love you, clothing piles and all. Now, I do have a day off, the kids can get themselves ready for school… Do you want to start your birthday off right?

...

Onyx: Did you have a good night ginger? Weird, mother is normally up by now. Must be resting

...

Bob: Please… faster…

Eliza: Is that an official birthday request? I’ll take it into consideration

Bob groans in delight as Eliza speeds up.

...

Fergus: You seen dad yet?

Onyx: Nah, he’s probably sleeping in for his birthday. We better be quiet when we leave so we don’t wake them up

The kids have indeed left for school by the time Bob and Eliza get out of bed. While Dale was obsessed with kitchen things it would appear Ginger is fascinated by bathroom plumbing. Following a quick breakfast Eliza suggests they head to the island off the coast to get their exercise in, oh how I wish there was an option to have sims go jogging together. Eliza takes Ginger so Bob has a chance to see how fast he can run without worrying about if the dog can keep up.

Of course no trip to the island would be complete without a visit to the top of the lighthouse. And, since it’s Bob’s birthday after all, a trip inside the lighthouse. I mean it’s a very cloudy day so really they were doing a public service making that light shine out.

Eliza: Oh Bob... is that your adult look?

Bob: It’s not too ridiculous is it

Eliza: It’s completely you Sleek. Ready to age up?

Bob: As ready as I'll ever be

He blows the candles out and spins up while Eliza does her best to sing happy birthday.

Bob hates parties, they are a nightmare for loner sims. However Eliza did manage to convince him to have his friends come over for a “casual catch up” and sure enough Bob enjoys it. He doesn’t feel quite so out of the loop now Onyx has aged up and he can join the discussions on the perils of raising teens.

After school Fergus does his homework before drama club and Onyx fits in some cheer practice since the watcher didn’t have time to follow them to school more this week. In the kitchen, while the adults chat, Ginger has realised that a crime has been committed. Her food bowl is empty! She begins to yap in distress until Eliza comes over to fix the situation.

Ginger: *yapping* thank goodness Mother, I almost STARVED

Harvey: I just don’t understand why he won’t accept some more money. It's not like they couldn't use it

Bob: Maybe he wants to be his own person

Harvey: Yeah or maybe Samir is telling him not to

Kayleigh: Look we don’t know Samir much, let’s give him the benefit of the doubt. He was the more attentive of the two when we gave Reece the woohoo talk

Harvey: All I know is we have more than enough and our son is choosing to sleep in a ruin of a house *sighs*

Bob: Do you regret letting him move out

Kayleigh: It’s not that exactly Bob. We're glad he's getting out in the world...

Harvey: It’s more, it hurts imagining him uncomfortable when we could help. I think I'll try give Reece money for his birthday

Bob: If it helps, I can deal with dirty surroundings just fine. Not everyone needs the dust free life to be comfy

The guests are gone by the time the kids get home and Bob figures it would be fine to work on his skills for promotion.

Bob: Do you two mind if I do my cooking livestream

Fergus: Pretty sure you’d do it anyway

Bob: Maybe but I wouldn’t enjoy it as much

Onyx: *laughs* go ahead dad, we’re almost done

Bob: Today followers, we will be looking at the best way to cook a rack of lamb. First step, don’t be imagining cute fluffy lambs while cooking, that’s how I get gloomy

Bob continues walking through his cooking process and once the rack is done reaches level 10 Gourmet Cooking skill. I’m so proud of him, well done Bob!

Fergus heads to play some games but Onyx has other tasks on their mind. First they set the table, then they check the house for dirty dishes. Finally they pick up Ginger’s latest poop to throw away. They want a horse! Of course a horse is a big ask for their parents so they’re trying to get everything just right to convince them that they should have one.

Eliza: My husband, level 10 gourmet cooking! Oh it’s simply too good for words!

Ginger: *yaps* you’ll cook me pet food when???

Eliza: I myself managed to level up my debating skill, so all that’s left for the next promotion is charisma

Bob: Oh hey, maybe we should throw a dinner party sometime. Take advantage of the charisma boost that comes if it goes well

Eliza: A proper dinner party will take a lot of planning

Bob: I’m sure we can do it together

Fergus is practising his dramatics, despite being too short for the mirror, when Ginger finds him.

Ginger: *yaps* I would like some attention and I would like it now

Fergus: Oh hey Ginger, you are just mastering going up and down stairs aren’t you

Ginger: *yaps* Of course, I’m a dog

Fergus: What have you been doing? You’re all dirty!

Ginger: *yaps* beats me, I literally just stood here and it happened

Before bed Onyx has time for some cheer practice, and judging by their routine, they need it! After falling over several times they cut their losses and head to bed before they can get more bruises. In the morning Bob is first to the breakfast table for once.

Bob: What’s all this

Onyx: They’re called placemats dad

Bob: I know, I do work in a restaurant Onyx, but why are they out? I thought we only used them for fancy times

Onyx: I thought you might like them

Bob: That’s sweet kid. Morning whippersnapper

Fergus: Morning dad

Onyx: Dad, as I’m sitting here eating this brilliant meal so lovingly cooked-

Bob: Alright kid, what is it

Onyx: What do you mean

Bob: I’m a chef, I can tell when something’s getting buttered up

Fergus: Yeah Onyx, even I could smell the cheese a mile away

Onyx: *rolls eyes* I was wondering… would I be able to… maybe if you’re okay with it… get a horse

Bob: *is surprised* Oh, well you know how it goes. Changes in the house get run past the mother

Onyx: But dad if you said yes-

Bob: Wait until your mother is here

Previous Part ... Next Part

[changingplumbob]

Pancakes Household: Chapter 8, Part 6

In this part Eliza learns Onyx wants a horse, there is a hiccup with Onyx's exam and the family take in the festival of light.

Eliza: Ginger was sulking through that entire bath, I swear more bubbles are on the floor than got on her

Fergus: I’m going to go ride my bike

Eliza: Right now? I’ve only just sat down

Bob: Why don’t I go mop those bubbles up for you

Eliza: You, clean a room that’s not the kitchen? What’s going on?

Onyx: Mother I’ve been trying to help out around the house more

Eliza: I had noticed, thank you. Your dad loves to leave plates everywhere

Bob: Why would we have tables everywhere if I couldn't put plates on them

Onyx: I was hoping that… I could get a horse

Eliza: A horse?

Onyx: Yes. For riding and jumping and stuff

Eliza: *sighs* Do you have any idea how much mess horses make? What did your dad say

Onyx: That I had to wait to ask you. But I’d look after it, I promise! You wouldn’t get burdened with the mess mother

Eliza: Onyx, mess aside, horses require a lot of care and attention. Not to mention they’re very expensive

Onyx looks deflated at this, the idea of waiting at lest five more years to have their own household and get a horse seems impossible.

Eliza: Onyx, look at me

Onyx looks up dejectedly, ready for a lecture on the germs horses have.

Eliza: If you’re serious about it, your dad and I will discuss it

Onyx: Really?

Bob nods.

Eliza: If you can show us you can stay on top of your grades, and fit in your cheerleading alongside a few more chores, then we’ll know you are responsible enough for one. But with our finances I can’t promise-

Onyx: Mother you are the best! I’ll get right on it. Let me clear the table!

Eliza: Oh, markets are open. Let me just make these business calls

Onyx is fitting in a workout before the exams start when their teacher finds them.

Mrs T: Onyx, there you are

Onyx: Were you looking for me Mrs Tinker?

Mrs T: Thanks to a certain someone there’s been an error with printing the exam papers for this morning

Maximus: Yeah my bad

Mrs T: Maximus is accompanying me while I let all affected students know. The majority of your class will have their grades calculated from the terms course work, but you started later. I’m afraid your exam will be in an interview format as I simply don’t have the data yet

Maximus: Yeah my bad

Mrs T leaves Onyx with Maximus following her as she mumbles something about meddling Lotharios.

Onyx isn’t really sure what to expect from an interview format exam but when the bell rings they head to class anyway. They quickly realise the seriousness of the error as only one other student enters the room, a senior who apparently needs to be watched to stop them disrupting their class.

Mrs T: Okay Onyx, are you ready

Onyx: I have no idea so I’m going to say yes

Mrs T: Correct, that’s 1 out of 20

Onyx relaxes as Mrs T simply asks them questions on the more memorable things she has taught and they can recall it. It also helps that Mrs T nods along and mouths words at them if they get stuck. Clearly whatever Maximus did has left her with no fucks to give no care about proper process.

Onyx: One junior lunch tray please…

Adam: I’m human not to be confused with my alien Adam

Onyx: Nice to meet you

Christen: OMW Onyx where were you? We were having study hall in the library

Onyx: Lucky for some, I had to do the exam

Angel: Bummer. That Maximus did most of us a favour I reckon, who can even think on Fridays?

Maximus: Not me

Paola: Was the exam deadly

Onyx: Oh you have no idea

Evie: Whatever, Mrs T is a pushover. She probably had you make paper snowflakes

Maximus: I miss being in her class

Amie: She is pretty great

Onyx sits down and enjoys a stress free lunch. While they were working on their “exam” most of the other students had a study period. While they do have an afternoon exam, being teenagers most of them goofed off and enjoy catching Onyx up on all that they missed.

Last class of the day and it looks like the printer issue has been sorted. The students file in, listen to Mrs T prattle off some basic instructions and begin the exam. Onyx is delighted to find the content is stuff they know. Once time is up, everyone hands their tests in, then the weekend can begin.

Bob: Let’s go Ginger, plenty of smells to explore

Ginger: *yaps* heck yeah

Bob begins to jog down the drive where the kids are arriving home.

Bob: Onyx are you sure that’s a great place to do your homework

Onyx: I’ll be fine dad, I’m comfy here

Bob doubts this but also knows his comfort is not always in line with others. When Onyx has finished their homework they do some chores and manage to fit in some cheer practice.

Bob has work but the rest of the family are free to travel to the festival of light. Fergus is keen to get to the wishing tree and is only there for a minute before racing off in search of Yamachan.

Onyx: So mother, I have some good news about my horse

Eliza: Onyx you don’t have a horse yet

Onyx: I know but I aced my exams. That’s pretty horse worthy don’t you think

Eliza: And what about cheerleading

Onyx: Okay I am still level 1 in the activity but I’m fitness level 3 now

Eliza: I’m glad to know you can focus your mind on your goals. Like I said, your dad and I can’t promise a horse. Money is tight

Onyx: But Dad is basically at the top of his career and you are super high up to

Eliza: Yes but we have costs. Rates, utilities, groceries

Onyx: I can eat less

Eliza: No one is stopping eating. Plus we like to have savings so that we can take you to events like this, and we want to be able to leave you with something

Onyx: Yes but your death is like forever away

Eliza: Be patient Onyx, your dad and I need to discuss it more

Eliza: Fergus what are you doing over here

Fergus: I talked to Yamachan, they only gave me one simmi capsule!

Eliza: Honey don’t be greedy, they need to make sure there’s enough for everyone

Fergus: I think I’m going to be a fire dancer when I grow up

Eliza: Is that right

Fergus: Yeah, just look at them. It looks so fun

Eliza: I guess we have different definitions of fun

Carson: Onyx! Over here

Onyx: Carson! How have you been

Carson: Bored out of my skull alone in school, I can’t wait until it’s my turn to age up

Onyx: Bring it on! I’ve already scooped out some good spots for us to chill. Oh and I have to tell you all about my crazy week

Fergus begins to entertain Eliza with some of the jokes he learned at drama club, realising too late that one Atlas told him is about how stupid adults are. And that he probably should not repeat it to his mother. Eliza tells him off and he looks suitably ashamed of his muck up, oops.

Back home Eliza goes to work on her speech more while the kids take some time to relax. Onyx does some journalling while Fergus chats with Brianna who seems to have invited herself over again. Before very long though both kids are asleep, and it looks like Onyx is dreaming happily.

Bob gets home and heads straight inside, searching for Eliza.

Bob: Jumble, you’ll never guess what

Eliza: You had that critic for the third shift in a row

Bob: Yes! But also, I reached 2 star celebrity status

Eliza: You did?

Bob: I think that deserves a celebration, don’t you

Eliza: Of course. Meet me in the shower?

Ginger: *yaps* humans! Where are you? I want snuggles

Bob and Eliza are blissfully unaware of her presence though.

Ginger: *yaps* Are you trying to make puppies in there? I can sing a romantic song if you like *howls*

Bob and Eliza finish up, give Ginger the necessary snuggle toll and head to bed. That ends this chapter of the Pancakes. Goodnight from Brindelton Bay.

Previous Part ... Next Part (Woods)

[changingplumbob]

Pancakes Household: Chapter 8, Part 2

In this part Fergus' sleepover continues then Eliza tells Bob about her pregnancy decision. It's a quick Freezer Bunny day and Iggy and Carson catch up after their scout meeting. Contains some sim spice, as usual no pixel private parts are shown.

For clarity Bob's nickname for Eliza is Jumble, and Eliza's nickname for Bob is Sleek. I'll try to capitalise them when they're being used as names to make any translations easier.

Eliza: Kids! Come eat! Bob left waffles

Drake: Sweet

Fergus: Did Atlas just disappear

Eliza: He left, he’s not coming back

Fergus: OMW mother what did you do

Eliza: Nothing! He was coughing and his mum rang and said she tested positive for Llamaflu and thought he should get home and rest just in case

Kelly: I hope he infected us all, it’s what I would do

Iggy: Fergus why are your friends so weird

Drake: I’m sure your friends are more weird

Ginger: *whines* just drop a corner, come on, give me a taste of waffle

Iggy: Kelly? Weren’t you just here

Kelly: It’s called a sleepover and if it goes well the watcher will count it as one of needed three gold sleepovers

Iggy: I’m not sure that’s how the watcher works

Kelly: How would you know? Had a conversation with them have you

Iggy: Just about how annoying you are

Eliza: Ginger? Where are you?

Ginger: *barks happily* 🎵trash, oh glorious TRASH🎶

Eliza: Ginger did you come outside?

Ginger: *barks happily* 🎶Trash I love you, oh trash I do🎵

Eliza: GINGER! We do NOT play in trash! Are you a common stray? No, you are meant to be domesticated. Get your paws OUT

Ginger whines sadly, learning not to play in the trash.

Eliza: There there, it’s okay. You’re still the best girl around here

Eliza: Lets go give you a bath before Bob decides you smell great in trash scents

Fergus: It’s called- mother, why are you here

Eliza: It is my house, I need good light

Fergus: But this is my sleepover

Eliza: Relax Fergus. I’m nearly done then I’ll leave you three in peace

Drake: Knew we should have done this at my house

Kelly: To bad you were to stupid to book this weekend first

The kids bicker and Eliza once again wonders how any of them call Kelly their friend.

Drake: I hope Atlas will be better for school

Fergus: The family always get their vaccinations, they’ll be fine

Kelly: Unless they all die

Drake: You don’t seriously think that

Kelly: Maybe they’re getting a visit from Grim right now, he’s going to get us all

Fergus: Oh yeah? Is Grim going to get Anya then?

Kelly: Obviously, Grim means business

Fergus: I forgot to tell you, I’ve joined the drama club

Drake: Why

Fergus: Just had a whim to try it

Kelly: Yeah I have whims to but they’re normally stuff like, make enemies

Drake: Do you actually have any enemies

Kelly: *sighs* it’s not for lack of trying, believe me

Fergus: Plus look at those two on the TV, they’re our age and they would have made money from this

Drake: Their parents probably forced them to do it

Kelly: Parents are the worst

Fergus: Make that all adults *titters* I’m an adult and you need to do what I say

Drake: If you don’t you’ll be sent straight to bed

Kelly: With no supper to wither and starve

The three wind themselves up with their impersonations and eventually have to give up on the film after missing what was even happening.

Fergus: Okay, story time! Come here Ginger, you can help

Drake: Why is your dog half inside your sleeping bag

Fergus: Dogs belong everywhere, don’t question it

Kelly: This better be scary

Fergus: Actually I’m going to tell the tale of a pirate

Drake cheers while Kelly boos. Fergus launches into his adventurous tale anyway. He has fun and the boys can see he’s practicing for drama club already.

We had some minor game glitches (by minor I mean it took between 1 and 2 hours of mod testing to find the culprit) so if there’s some continuity errors we will all just roll with it.

Bob arrives home happy. He had a stern critic come by the restaurant and rather than bore them with the house staple he decided to make them some comforting mac and cheese. He didn’t lose any job performance, so he calls in a vacation day for tomorrow. He sneaks inside past the sleeping kids and goes to find his wife.

Eliza: And that is why your only choice can be to invest in the company

Bob: I’m convinced

Eliza: You’re home, finally! Let’s get it on

Bob: Can we talk first

Eliza: Sure. What is it Sleek?

Bob: Have you thought about if we’re going to properly try for another pregnancy

Eliza: *sighs* I have thought about it

Bob: Do we have a verdict

Eliza: Lie back, get comfy, and listen

Bob climbs on the bed and Eliza begins to speak between kisses.

Eliza: I want another kid with you. I do. But I’m proud of what I’m achieving career wise right now. This next promotion will take a lot of work. If we get pregnant, then we get pregnant and I will love our child, but for now my focus needs to be on upskilling myself

Bob: I think you’re very skilled already

Eliza: *smirks* I can hardly use these skills in the boardroom. But I’ll make you a promise

Bob: I’m listening, I am a captive audience after all

Eliza: If we don’t get pregnant by the time Fergus is a teenager, we can start properly trying again. Will you be okay with that?

Bob: I can be. I love you. I want you to be happy

Eliza: Believe me Bob, right now you are making me very happy and… *chuckles* yes it feels like I’m making you happy to

The conversation draws to its natural conclusion, woohoo. The next day is Freezer Bunny Day and the slumber party kids wake up pretty early.

Eliza: Have you lot had breakfast already?

Fergus: Of course mother

Eliza: Are you alright Kelly? You don’t look too flash

Kelly: Bloody Atlas must have infected me before he left

Eliza: I think it’s time to head home then. You to Drake

Fergus: Mother what time is the holiday ceremony

Eliza: Not until 10, we have some time

Bob: I wanted waffles for breakfast

Eliza: You could always make some more

Bob: No point, I’m doomed to be sad

Eliza: Have some of this trout with me, you did a great job with it

Bob: Really?

Eliza: It’s excellent, I promise

The two eat and flirt some more before Eliza gets up to wash the dishes.

Eliza: I can feel you staring at my ass Sleek

Bob: But it’s such a fine ass

Eliza: I’m glad one of us appreciates this unshifting baby weight

Iggy enters the kitchen and Bob decides to pull Eliza aside to keep talking.

Bob: I’m sorry you’re unhappy with it, but I do love the curves

Eliza: I know you do, I just wished I loved them more. I mean looking at me, who would know I’m fit

Bob: Don’t worry about what other people think, to me you’re the most beautiful sim in the world. Remember what I told you last time you felt like this

Eliza: *sighs* That me being curvy was a sign of love? Love for the food you make and love for the lives I brought into this world

Bob: Exactly. You know I met this stunning girl in university who told me, weight doesn’t equal worth, and it helped me beyond measure

Eliza: She sounds like a catch

Bob: *chuckles* why do you think I married you before some other sim could. Now come on, or we’ll be late

After the Freezer Bunny Day ceremony Eliza goes to practice her skills and Bob searches for Ginger. She is very dirty so Bob decides the smartest thing to do is wait until after a jog to give her a bath.

Fergus: Did you check the couches

Iggy: Yes, I found a couple. Did you look in the laundry bins

Fergus: I don’t think the Freezer Bunny would put eggs in dirty laundry

Iggy: Yet you said we needed to check the toilets

Fergus: You’ve been pranked!

Iggy: How could it be a prank if I found an egg there

Fergus: *huffs* stupid Freezer Bunny

Bob: We did the jog, no more avoiding, it’s bath time

Ginger: *whimpers* but I don’t even know how I got dirty

Bob: I’m sorry. If it was up to me you could stay dirty forever. But we need to think of the others in the house, and they don’t enjoy dirty dog smell

Ginger: *whines* but I just had a bath yesterday, infants don’t even get bathed daily

Bob: Guess we’ll do this the hard way then

He scoops up Ginger and carries her to the bathroom, all the while she yaps in protest.

Bob: See, if we keep the harness on we can clean it at the same time. Eliza had to get me to stop showering with my clothes on, but it saved time so it was hard to convince me not to

Bob places Ginger down and she immediately begins flinging off all the loose water. Bob tries to avoid it but a puddle appears. He decides it will dry by itself. Carrying Ginger in to the lounge he sets her down and switches her into he collar.

Bob: There, clean and fashionable

Iggy brings Carson with him after scouts. Harvey is going to swing by for dinner and pick him up then. They do the secret scout handshake and reflect on the meeting.

Carson: I can’t believe you found that super rare badge

Iggy: I can’t believe they dropped it. I’m glad the troop leader knew who it belonged to though and was able to get it back to them

Carson: You definitely couldn’t have kept it, the leader would know you didn’t earn it

Harvey: I saw your wife tuning up the doorbell

Bob: I knew there was probably something I forgot to do

Harvey: Are you looking forward to your birthday tomorrow Iggy?

Iggy: Yes! Though it sucks Carson can’t age up at the same time

Carson: We are technically the same age after all. Promise me you’ll still come to my birthday party when I have it

Iggy: Absolutely!

Bob: Food everyone! Come and get it!

Iggy: It looks great dad. Mother are you... smoking?

Eliza: I’ll be fine. I just got electrocuted by the doorbell

Bob: Are you sure you’re okay? Maybe you should lie down? With soup!

Eliza: I’ll be fine Bob

Fergus: Wait… if both of you are Llamacorn scouts... why don’t you have matching uniforms?

Iggy: I don't have an answer (and neither does the watcher)

Previous Part ... Next Part

[changingplumbob]

Pancakes Household: Chapter 8, Part 4

In this part the eldest Pancake begins high school, unfortunately on career day. Then it's a trip to the dog part, despite the rain, because Bob needs to drum up customers!

Bob: Your mother said you wanted to chat, is everything okay?

Iggy: Yeah dad. It’s just..

Bob: You’re not just a boy?

Iggy: Wait what? How did you know

Bob: The make up was a clue. How did you do that eyeliner? The lashes are superb

Iggy: Thanks dad, youtube had tutorials. So today I’m feeling pretty non-binary, but that will change, and change again. It’s called being genderfluid, today I fit they/them pronouns

Bob: I’m glad you wanted to share who you are with me. Give your old dad a hug. Best of luck with your first day, I’m proud of you no matter what, got it?

Iggy: Got it. Thanks dad, I love you

First day of High School! Iggy sets out to find where on earth the principal is. Turns out he’s in the computer science class talking with the class 2 teacher.

Iggy: Hi, are you Mr Amarinth?

Mr A: Yes I am, how can I help you?

Iggy: Well it’s my first day and I’m not really sure what I should be doing

Mr A: Ah, you’re Mr Pancakes. Well, first up check for a locker, claim the one you want

Iggy: I’m not exactly-

Mr A: Then go find your teacher, she’s around here somewhere. It’s her job to let you know what is going on

Iggy: Okay but if we could swing back to-

Mr A: Now Mr Pancakes I do not have time to talk all day, important principal stuff

Iggy: *sighs* sure sir

Iggy went off to search the halls feeling somewhat deflated. They know that when their parents enrolled them they had put male student. Their parents hadn’t known then so Iggy couldn’t blame them. And judging from Mr A’s tone, he was not interested in getting to know the student body. They could only hope that their class teacher would be more understanding.

Iggy finally finds the person they’re looking for in the actual computer lab. Mustering their high confidence back together, they go over to introduce themselves.

Iggy: Hello, I think I’m your new student

Mrs Tinker: Oh, hello. Nice to meet you. I was told I was getting a new student but Mr Amarinth didn’t elaborate beyond that

Iggy: Oh, well… My name, at least for now, is Iggy. And Mr A didn’t have time to listen but I do prefer they/them pronouns

Mrs T: No problem. Let me know if anything changes and I’ll do my best to keep up

Iggy feels some relief at this. At least some adult at this school seems supportive.

Mrs T: Come on, come on, we’re already late starting

Amie: Sorry miss

Mrs T: Social studies. What is social studies really but the science of people?

Iggy does their best write notes and listen but they’re really trying to think up a new name. One that will fit them better, no matter which gender they feel like on any particular day. Their mind goes through all the books they read as a kid, wondering if any of them had suitable names. How did parents decide what their kids should be called anyway?

Iggy: What options do we have? Any Monte Cristo in stock?

Naveah: This isn’t the Ritz kid. We have slider options and tray options

Iggy: Then I’ll have some veggie sliders please…

Naveah: Oh I’m Naveah

Iggy: What a cool name! Maybe I should go with a colour

Iggy moves to a table and ponders this where Amie finds them.

Amie: Hey Ig, you ready

Iggy: Ready for what

Amie: It’s career day

Iggy: But we’re only 13, what can we possibly know about careers

Amie: That’s why we have it I guess

Career day and Iggy sped through the career check ins to make sure the teacher would stay off their back. Not that Mrs Tinker seemed like she would be harsh but Iggy was certainly not ready to start imagining adult life, they’d only just become a teenager after all.

After Iggy had checked in Mrs Tinker they drifted over to the arcade game where they were soon joined by friends Darwin and William.

William: Yo Igs, you found something cool?

Iggy: I guess, hard to find anything in all this clutter

Darwin: It’s to “inspire our young minds”

The three teens burst into laughter as Darwin’s impersonation and try their best to figure out how to work such archaic technology.

William: You thought of a new name yet

Darwin: I still vote Chaos the Destroyer

William: Dude, no. We're not characters in a video game

Iggy: Did you know our cafeteria lady is called Naveah? That’s cool right

Darwin: So you gonna steal her name

Iggy: No but it’s got me thinking about non traditional names. I can’t do standard gender neutral names because the save already has a Kelly, Charlie, Devin, Alex

William: Just don’t go calling yourself something like apple

Darwin: Oh, how about peach? If you’re thinking colours

William: Dude you are not serious

Iggy: Pretty sure I want something that’s not going to make me sound like a stripper

Darwin: Oh… yeah I hear that now

William: I mean, you read a shoot ton of books, there must be something in there that sounds cool

Iggy: Good point!

Darwin: How about Katniss

William: Pretty sure the idea is to sound less gendered

Darwin: and your cis self knows about that do you

William: It’s called being helpful dude, try it some time

William walks off despite Darwin insisting he is being helpful actually.

Darwin: Whatever you pick Pancakes, we’ll use. Flick us a text when you figure it out

Iggy: Thanks, you’ve given me stuff to think about. I think I have a top three now

Darwin: Sweet. Next time you see William tell him I am actually helpful

After school Bob and Iggy head to the park. Bob wants to see if a bake sale at a community lot will result in more customers so Iggy is here to keep Ginger occupied.

Bob: Are you going to be okay here

Iggy: Dad, I’m not 5, I’ll be fine

Bob: If anyone looks at you funny send them to me, I’ll slip an extra something into their fudge slice

Bob sets up but with the rain his gloomy self is not optimistic about the turn out. After filling an empty bowl for Ginger, Iggy sits down to do their homework. Fergus is off at drama club but there’s no cheer practice today.

Ginger is happily snacking away when I notice Clover is here watching. A quick scan about the park shows that Kaori has brought her. Despite the rain Bob has a line at his stall before too long. It’s the best way to move the baking that he has had to do to level his skill, if sims buy.

Iggy: Okay Ginger, that’s my homework all done. Time to practice some cheer

Ginger: *yaps* Umm what about me

Iggy: Do you want to play huh? I suppose this is technically the dog park

Ginger: *yaps* damn right it is

Ginger: *yaps* tell me your problems human, I’m smart, I shall solve

Iggy: Well I had a bunch of name ideas, how do parents pick names? There’s so many

Ginger: *yaps* beats me

Iggy: But I think I’ve found one that… well I’m kind of in love with, so that’s a good thing right

Ginger: *yaps* indeed, tell me your new identity

Onyx: I’m Onyx *laughs* yeah, I’m Onyx

Ginger yaps her approval and after a snuggle Onyx begins trying to teach her how to fetch.

Bob manages to get a steady stream of sims throughout the afternoon despite the downpour. When Fergus arrives from drama cub he eagerly dives into the playground, despite things being slippery. For the most part Onyx and Ginger manage to stay under cover but for some of the longer throws they have to brave the rain. With Eliza’s shift almost done the family pack up and head home.

Eliza: How was the first day of high school then?

Onyx: Mixed bag. The principal was quite busy but my classroom teacher, Mrs Tinker, seems nice. She agreed to use my pronouns

Eliza: As she should

Onyx: But we only got one class then it was career day

Bob: Oh I’ve done a few of those

Onyx: I wish you had been there today dad, the speakers were so boring. I didn’t want to do any of the options

Eliza: You’re still young, you’ve got all the time in the world to figure it out

Onyx: I have figured out something though. A name that sounds more… me

Bob: What is it?

Onyx: I was thinking… Onyx. Although I won’t mind Nyx for short

Eliza: Onyx… I like it

Bob: Definitely better than a name I could come up with. You know when you were born I wanted to call you-

But luckily Bob sees Eliza shaking her head and stops that sentence before he spills the beans.

Fergus: You should have picked a cuss word, it would have been hilarious

Eliza: Fergus, Onyx doesn’t need a hilarious name. They want a name that suits them

Fergus: But imagine the prank possibilities!

Onyx: Aren’t you meant to be proper

Fergus: Sometimes

Onyx: Look I just wanted to say, to all of you really, thank you for accepting who I am

Bob: Kid, we love you. That’s what family does

Onyx: Not all family. I know how lucky I am to have you, that’s all

That night Eliza tries shooing Ginger before she and Bob woohoo but Ginger is feeling clingy and refuses to leave the room. Pets.

Fergus: Hey Onyx, I was wondering…

Onyx: Is this a real question or a nonsense question

Fergus: Well now I want to ask two questions

Onyx: Fine, go ahead

Fergus: Can I have your old bike AND what do sheep wear to the beach?

Onyx: Sure and I don’t know, what do they wear

Fergus:  A BAAkini, get it

Onyx: Yeah I’m not using that in my future comedy sets

Eliza: Morning kids

Fergus: Hey Mother, can I have some help

Eliza: What with

Fergus: Well some kid in my class was giving out birthday gifts. As in, it was their birthday so they got each of us a gift

Eliza: Hold on Fergus, your dad and I do not have the money to do that

Fergus: I’m not asking you to. Anyway mine sucks. What do I do? Try to enjoy it? Give it back?

Eliza: Tell you what, you give it to me and I’ll return it to the store. Then you can get something else

Fergus: Genius

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