#del sol valley memories

[anamoon63]

While Anika and Lukas discuss about celebrity, Kennedy’s gone to take his dinner in the music room, where Allan is practicing on the piano. Allan: Hey, Kenny, what’s up? You look sad. Kennedy: I am.

Allan: Wanna talk about it? Kennedy: I don’t know if there’s a point. Allan: Well, if this is about what I said to Alex up there, I… Kennedy: It’s none of that, it’s… about Orange. Allan: Oh, I see. What did he do now?

Kennedy: Rather what did he NOT do. Allan: Still MIA, huh? Kennedy: Yeah, no matter how many text messages I send him, he never answers them, and he rarely ever picks up my calls… Aw, I wish I was lucky like Anika, she’s got Alex wrapped around her finger.

Kennedy: Why can’t I have the same with O.? Allan: Well, that kid’s life is hectic. His family tours all the time and attends lots of events. There’s hardly time for anything else. But I’m really close friends with Octavia, so if you’d like, I can call her and… Kennedy: Thanks, Dad, that’s nice of you, but I can manage.

[moonwoodhollow]

Jean's Life - next [The River ♫] Jean is by the lovely @cowplant-snacks

[cuddle-wuddle]

LAST MINUTE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING 🛍 🎁

Introducing...Ms Chyna Kwami. Chyna, a 21-year-old aspiring model, has been Blake's close friend since their days at Oasis Springs High. The two have shared countless memories and currently share a cozy townhouse in Oasis Springs. Originally from Del Sol Valley, Chyna relocated to Oasis Springs at the start of high school when her parents sought a quieter life. Now, both Chyna and Blake are preparing for an exciting new chapter as they move to San Myshuno to attend USM (University of San Myshuno). In the images below, the duo, while trying to catch up on their Christmas shopping, found themselves a little sidetracked at David's Restaurant. Stay tuned for more introductions to Blake's circle of friends!

@sentate @serenity-cc

[redwebber]

I fucking love Natlan

I've seen many people complain about how they expected Natlan to be bloodier (even seen some mentions of human sacrifices which seem kinda reductive and disrespectful?) because they are the nation of war, but ngl, as a mexican, I actually really liked how they interpreted and referenced some cultural an mythological stuff!

Some examples:

SPOILERS FOR THE NATLAN QUESTS

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•Natlan. I mean, this is an obvious one, but I'm still gonna talk about it lmao. I love the name! Natlan is probably originated from the word Aztlan (Or Aztlán/Aztatlan), the homeplace of Aztecs. The 'Na' I'm assuming is either a referrence to the word 'Nahuatl', the language of the Aztecs, the word 'Nativo', or Native, or the word Nacimiento (Birth). Honestly I lean more towards the last one mostly because, with '-tlan' meaning 'close to' or 'beside' (as with the names of places like Mazatlán, Tenochtitlán, Cuautitlán, among others that still remain to this day), it would come to mean something like 'Close to birth'. And I find that neat as a nation that was at war for so long only to finally find some peace.

•The Archon of War and the sun motifs. The Aztecs venerated Tonatiuh, The Old Sun, and thus were known as the People of the Sun (El Pueblo del Sol para mis amistades mexas). I think this isn't precisely the god being used as a referrence for the current archon, but rather part of the inspiration for Xblanque (who i will talk more about later). Instead, the main god of the Mexicas was Mexi, or as we more commonly know him, Huitzilopochtli, who is the god of War and the young sun.

•Tribe names. While everyone probably remembers the tribes by their nicknames 'Scions of the Canopy', 'Children of the Echoes', 'Collective of Plenty', they actually have names that we can see in the reputation quest screen! That is Nanatzcáyan, Huitztlán, Meztli, Tlalocan, Teteocán, and Mictlan. These names mostly come from the Mexica 13 skies, part of their cosmology which represents the world above where the gods reside. Though while I love the reference, I don't quite see why they chose most of the names here (Except for the one on the next point), since the name meanings don't have anything to do with what the place is about, but oh well...

•The Masters of the Night Wind. I lied a bit on the last point. The Masters of the Night Wind are called Mictlan, which isn't a part of the 13 skies. Rather, it's the Aztec equivalent of the underworld, so it made so much sense for them to be the most connected to the Night-Soul Kingdom!

•The Pilgrimage of the Return of the Sacred Flame. On that note, the whole 'sending our best warriors to fight in the world of the dead and being able to be rebirthed from flame' thing is also kinda related! In Mexica mythology, warriors that died in combat or in sacrifice were said to go somewhere other than Mictlan. This was Tonatiuhichan (which would be the equivalent of Vallhalla and Elysium if anyone wants a referrence), or the House of the Sun, a place where warriors wouldn't have to feel sadness, pain, or displeasure. In myths, the souls of the warriors accompanied the sun from the moment it rose until its midpoint (hey, kinda like Mavuika and her theme of memory).

Fun fact: Women who died during childbirth were considered to be on the same level as said warriors, as childbirth was considered a form of combat. As such, they are the ones who accompanied the sun from its midpoint until the sun set, singing and fighting as a form of entertainment.

•Tenoch. Ah, yes, the one to select the ancient heroes from the 6 tribes in the game. Tenoch is the namesake of Tenochtitlan, Mexico City's ancient name. Tenoch was said to be the last cuāuhtlahtoh, who were the leaders of the Mexica as they travelled from Aztlan to the Mexican Valley. He was also the first one to do the first Fuego Nuevo Ceremony and- heeeey, doesn't that sound familiar?

•The Sacred Flame. I admit, this one is actually one I only learned recently when I was investigating Tenoch because I actually didn't know much about him. The Fuego Nuevo, or New Fire reminded me of the sacred flame! Essentially, the ceremony represented the start of a new cycle, a sort of rebirth, which is another one of Natlan's core themes. In this ceremony, among many other things, they burned statues of the gods in sacrifice, and common people burned their old belongings and any physical representation of their gods, cleaning their houses thoroughly. The priests would go on a pilgrimage to the top of the Huixachtecatl, where they would light a hearth. This fire would then be shared onto the main temples! Thus, the New Fire means rebirth, just like how the Sacred Flame brings back the heroes.

•Och-kan and Ochkanatlan. This one is more speculation, but I wonder if the 'Och' is a reference to Tenoch too. As said before, Tenoch is the namesake of Tenochtitlan, which was named that by Tenoch's successor Acamapichtli. Thus, clould it be that Ochkanatlan stands for Tenochtitlan as an ancient form of Natlan standing for Mexican-adyancent? And Och-kan was, I believe (but correct me if im wrong because I do not remember lmao), the last king of Ochkanatlan, just like Tenoch was the last cuāuhtlahtoh? Wow, too much theorizing, my brain hurts.

•Och-kan part 2: Electric Bugaloo. Wait a damn minute. Cocouik is a little bird-like thing that represents the mind and turns into a full on dragon (named Och-kan, whatever, name isn't as relevant in this second theory of mind). In mexica mythology, Quetzalcoatl is the feathered serpent (Often represented as your typical feathered amphitere dragon, which is symbolized by the quetzal). Quetzalcoatl is the god creator of men and god of light (among other stuff) who famously fought against Tezcatlipoca, the god of darkness, magic and war, kind of how Cocouik and Bona were fighting against the dragon of the city of ash in order to reach the altar of the primal flame. One might also nickname Quetzalcoatl as Coco. Am I tripping? Perhaps. Uhhhh back to the regular schedule.

•Obsidian. Those paying close attention to Natlan's worldbuilding might see obsidian popping up again and again! This is because obsidian was highly valuable to ancient mesoamerican cultures. It was used in everything, from making cutting tools, to weapons, jewelry, art, and yes, religious purposes! Obsidian was thought to be the blood of the Earth and was used for bloodletting, statues of the gods, etc. which is why I find it especially fascinating that ancient names are made out of it. Plus all the Waylob Obsidian totems!

•Relay Ball. Some of you might be aware of the Relay Ball mechanic in the game! Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if this is inspired by the Mesoamerican Juego de Pelota/Ball game, an ancient sport where players struck a ball made out of rubber to send it through a hoop of stone! Dunno, just look at them pictures!

•Natlan food! While there's probably more that I didn't notice, the three main ones I remember are Chocolate, Xocoatl, and, of course, the tatacos. First off Xocoatl in the game is based of Xocolatl, which is a form of ancient hot chocolate made out of water and cacao the mexicas used to drink, particularly nobles and warriors. Next off is chocolate, which I was surprised to see! For some reason, I never see people talk about the fact that Chocolate actually originates from ancient Mexico, it was a treat to see (pun intended). Finally, tatacos. While it's obvious that these are tacos, I find it so cool that they actually didn't go for the meat ones but rather the ones made from shrimp from Ensenada! They are soooo good!

•Names names names! There's so many references in the names of many characters in the story! From Citlali, Granny Iztli (ik they're the same but the meaning has different origins!), Kinich, Xilonen, Chasca, etc. As well as the names of some of the places! Really, it's a treat reading through the story and seeing a name of an origin I recognize.

•Not exactly Natlan but I looove this hoyoverse Dia de Muertos post. The Cempasúchil? The papel picado? The catrin and the alebrijes??? I so hope they make an event similar to this next october/november!

That's all I'm including in my post, but there's so many things I didn't mention because I'm on my migraine arc. Hopefully this post gave you a bit of insight on some ways the game did represent our culture beyond the typical 'human-sacrificing savages' outlook. I loved Natlan and, though I wish we had darker-skinned playable characters (Sumeru fans 🤝 Natlan fans) and that the characters were voiced (What I get for being an English player), I do see that they dug pretty deep in our mythology and culture to create Natlan. I'd love to hear what other things you loved about the nation, or what things from your own culture you noticed! After all, ancient mexico is just one of several cultures used as inspiration. That's it from me, maybe I'll be back if I notice something particularly cool that I didn't mention. Have a great day!

[pixelnrd]

The Lenowski family enjoyed their Christmas in Del Sol Valley that year. Eleanor and Daphne spent much of the time reminiscing on their childhood and telling the kids wild stories that they had never heard before. Eleanor usually shied away from telling her children about her youth, but in the presence of Daphne she let her guard down.

The trip down memory lane took a turn when Daphne brought out the records that they had made with their parents as The Dreyfus Family Band. The girls laughed as they remembered the experience, and next thing the kids were all dancing to their songs. It was a wonderful holiday and brought them all much closer together.

While inside everyone was dancing, outside the older teenagers were reflecting on their time in Del Sol Valley and what they had experienced. Both of them were even more determined to get out of Sulani and see the world.

'I can't stay in Sulani forever,' said Clover to River. 'There’s nothing there, man - unless you like surfing. As soon as I graduate, I'm getting out. This is where it's at. This place is… alive.’

'I'm with you there,' said River. 'I don't care what Mom and Dad say. I'm gonna find a way out of that place somehow. If I can get into college, that'll be my ticket.'

The siblings watched the sunset over the vast city from the patio and thought about their futures. They didn't resent their parents for their upbringing - but they wanted more.

[simvanie]

Luxor Amata for Scarlett's love is embarrassing BC

Guess who is back (in an alternate timeline)? I totally forgot about the existence of bachelor challenges when I was playing with Luxor for the lust generation of my legacy, until he was old and already fully committed to his wife. I think doing a bachelor challenge with Luxor would have been really fun, but doing one myself with him now, even in an alternate timeline, wouldn't make sense for me since Luxor has already established his story and lore in my sims universe. So, when I saw @theosconfessions post for Scarlett's Love is Embarrassing BC I got this idea where Luxor can still participate in a BC in some way and let others have fun with him. I thought, what if I make an updated version of Luxor set in an alternate timeline where he hasn't met the love of his life yet and so it's entirely possible that he ends up with Scarlett? So, I gave Luxor a makeover and pitched this idea to Stacey (theosconfessions) and luckily she liked it!

Info about Luxor under the cut:

"Blondes have more fun, right?" That is what Luxor heard some of his co-stars say on the set of the upcoming series where he plays a role in. When he asked what they were talking about, they showed him Scarlett's bachelorette challenge call. Luxor's heart skipped a beat and suddenly it felt like his brain wasn't getting enough oxygen anymore. For a while now, Luxor really wants to find someone to grow old with and thinks that Scarlett might be the one. Luxor has had his fair share of official (and unofficial) relationships in the past and it's safe to say that this heartthrob already has a lot of experience in the dating field. One might attribute his need for love and affection to his childhood, in which his single mother, who tried to keep her head above water as a criminal, was often angry at him and didn't give him much attention until he was a little older. But don't get me wrong, Luxor is 100% capable of being fully committed when he finds the right person. He is charismatic, has a good heart and doesn't actually want to cause anyone heartbreak. Although his noncommittal trait caused him sometimes to suddenly jump from one relationship into the other or have multiple at once (and this 'multiple at once' can also be applied to a couple of in the bedroom activities he has had), he feels that it is finally time to settle down and find someone to build a future with. Luxor is currently a B-lister celebrity with a love for stand-up comedy and playing the guitar. He is romantically more interested in women but open to explore romantically, and has had woohoo experience with both men and women. His PR agency told him that it would be better for his public celebrity image to keep that last one under wraps for now. The life in the spotlight can sometimes be a bit hectic, and Luxor hopes that he can find in Scarlett someone to come home to, cuddle on the couch with, tell his new jokes to, go on dates with, play guitar for, have romantic dinners with, go on advetures with, visit the petting zoo with (he absolutely loves the little goats), make memories with, and to show him if it's true when they say that blondes have more fun (whatever fun for them may mean *wink wink*). And what better place to meet Scarlett than one of Luxor's favorite vacation locations, Tartosa!

Pronouns: He/him

Age: He's already nearing the end of his young adult years, but Luxor never minded an age gap in relationships and hopes Scarlett feels the same about it

Sexuality: Bisexual (currently closeted for the public image, but close friends and family know)

Traits: Noncommittal, outgoing, music lover (Luxor originally had the romantic trait here, but it's changed to music lover to make it more fair regarding the other contestants)

Career: Actor

Hometown: Del Sol Valley

I hope you like him! Can't wait to see how the drama, ✨the spice✨, and everything else unfolds in Scarlett's bachelorette challenge.

[dreamlandiasims]

previous | next

Erwin: Back in the 70s, Strangerville was a military base and research facility. Well, it was a town before that, too, but the government presence really made it what it is today. The story is they got a report one day of some strange plant growing here and the feds rolled into to check it out. Turns out, the plant was alien in nature. The military did their best to cover it up, but it caught the attention of some of the early ufologists, namely the Curious brothers. Long story short, the military lost control of the situation, the plant-alien threatened to take over the town, and the ufologists had to dispose of it.

Frankie: There’s no way a single word of that is true.

Erwin: Yeah, well, that’s what a lot of people said to the Curious brothers. The government sealed the case up tight, and without any proof, no one believed them. Anyways, the town was pretty quiet after that. Officially, the military operation here was done. But in reality, they had worked out an under-the-table deal with some private organization, which bought the lab and took over research there.

Frankie: I met someone at the lab who said he owned it—well, paid for it at least. Ted Roswell?

Erwin: Ah, the Roswells. So this organization that bought the lab, it’s called Agnos. I don’t know much about it—there’s, like, nothing online—but it seems to involve the leaders and wealthy elite of cities all over the country. I’m talking Del Sol Valley, San Myshuno, Willow Creek… I don’t think the Roswells are really involved at the highest level. But they have the money to keep the lab in operation, so they’re given just enough power and influence to stay loyal.

Frankie: Wait… so how does BioSim Tech come into all of this?

Erwin: Well, now that’s the next piece of the puzzle. BioSim Tech is a real, legit company—but it’s owned by Agnos. They seem to dabble in a lot of different industries, but “bio engineering” is their main focus. On paper, the company is dedicated to “developing cutting edge solutions towards a brighter future for Sims everywhere”.

Frankie: Okay, sure.

Erwin: So it seems like they’re working on cures for disease, operations to increase longevity, things like that. But—and this part is just my theory, by the way—I think it’s all a front. I think what they’re really interested in is Strangerville’s connection to the extraterrestrial.

Frankie: Here we go…

Erwin: See, the alien plant… no one knows how it got here. It just appeared one day. Now, one of the leading theories among ufologists is that there are certain places in the world—places where there’s a higher frequency of abduction stories, UFO sightings, what have you—and that this means that the fabric, the material, separating our world from others is thinner, or more fragile. And so, periodically there are events that may cause a small tear—

Frankie: Aaaand you’ve lost me. How does any of this help me find my mom?

Erwin: I’m getting to that, if you’ll just listen…

Frankie: I’m trying! Could you get there a little faster maybe?

Erwin: Fine. Forget my theories, here’s what I know. A few years ago a new team of scientists showed up, some sort of changing of the guard. Still part of BioSim Tech, but… different somehow. More secretive, more controlling. And things have been weird here ever since. Technology going haywire, people losing their memories, and… well… people coming to town and never leaving.

Frankie: Wait, what?

Erwin: It’s not every person that drives through. But every now and then, they’ll decide to stick around—sometimes they’re tourists, sometimes… they have car trouble. And within a few days, they’ve disappeared. No one sees them leave, but we all just assume they skipped town. You know… helps us sleep at night.

Frankie: And you didn’t think to tell me this sooner?

Erwin: Look, I’m sorry. Like I said, it’s not every person that comes through. I didn’t want to scare you unnecessarily. Also… they scare the shit out of me. Agnos seems to have eyes and ears everywhere. People that go out of their way to warn others… also disappear.

Frankie: … What are they doing with the people they take?

Erwin: That… I don’t know.

Frankie: Then let’s find out.

Erwin: I, erm, what?

Frankie: You and me, Merlin. We’re getting into that lab.

[queeniecook]

February 11

Inna Cents is doing a scheduled appearance in Ciudad Enamorada at the Mirador del Amor nightclub. It's basically to hype her guest appearance on the show "The Young and the Restless Undead" - a vampire soap opera. She invited Naya Grant to meet her at the club to conduct their next interview.

As Inna signs an autograph for an adoring fan, she thinks over the fact that the woman who is writing an article on her so happens to be the sister-in-law of Caleb Vatore. She hadn't planned or asked for the situation. The Fashion Magazine La Bella - who Naya works for- had reached out to her agent, who then pestered Inna into giving the interviews.

But the circumstances had provided her with an interesting opportunity.

Mrs. Grant arrives on time, after flying from Sulani to Ciudad Enamorada.

"How long did it take the paparazzi to figure out they can't take pictures of you the same way they do other celebrities?" Naya asks Inna after they sit down together.

Inna briefly pauses in thought. "About a month." She replies, her lips curving into an amused smirk at her memories of the Pap getting angry because their prized photos weren't turning out. "Did your brother-in-law tell you about this?"

Naya shakes her head slightly. "My sister-in-law actually. They had a engagement photoshoot done and they had to hire a photographer who knew what they were doing so it didn't look like Vera was posing with herself." 

Inna nods her head, a small lump forming in her throat for some unknown reason.

Naya doesn't notice the change in Miss Cent's mood and launches into her questions after turning on her tape recorder. Granted it will be a bit harder to get everything clear in the nightclub setting but she'll have to do her best. This is the time she was given to do this month's interview.

"So, Kumikya's store in Del Sol Valley or their website?" Inna asks after the interview winds down. It didn't escape her that they both wore the same skirt, just different colors.

Naya laughs slightly "Online."

Inna smiles slightly, careful not to show her fangs. She feels a little guilt, Naya Grant seems like a sweet woman and she likes her tastes in fashion.  She's connected to Caleb though and there's a part of Inna that isn't pleased that Caleb is happy.

[simsmoonie]

Name: Adriel Nunez

Age: 25

Occupation: DJ & Professional Dancer

Location: Del Sol Valley

”Hey! I’m Adriel, a laid-back Libra who believes in living life to the fullest and making a difference wherever I can. As a DJ and professional dancer, music and movement are my lifeblood. I thrive on good vibes and believe that every moment can be a celebration—whether it’s spinning tracks at a local club or dancing under the stars, just you and I.

I might come off a bit too chill for some, but trust me, my heart is as big as my dreams. I’d give my last shirt to someone in need and have a soft spot for every stray animal out there—seriously, I’d adopt them all if I could! My friends joke that I only packed my sneakers for this fancy trip because who needs dress shoes? Right?

I’m mixed with my Australian dad and Spanish mom while I spent my childhood in Japan, so I’m lucky enough to speak a few languages. I can strike up a conversation with anyone, and I’m told my green eyes and curls have a way of captivating hearts—platonic or romantic!

I’m here looking for someone who appreciates life’s simple joys and can match my energy. Let’s dance through life together, create unforgettable memories, and enjoy every moment while we can.”

see more of mr loverboy over at @bunnithechubs (≖ ͜ʖ≖)

[simslegacy5083]

Today's (10/31/2024) Episode: In Loving Memory

Luigi had been happy to see his step-mom at New Years but was devastated when he found out he had missed his last chance to hug her goodbye. 

"Thanks for letting me know" he said, his voice breaking "you're right, she was really something special." Ending the call with his step-brother he turned to Noemi, who was sitting next to him at the computer, looking concerned. "That was Scott" he told her "Mom passed away this morning…" 

"Oh honey, I'm so sorry" Noemi replied, rising to wrap him in a hug "She was such an amazing sim. I can't begin to imagine how hard this must be for you. Let me know if there’s anything special we can do today in her memory."

Luigi was still deep into processing his own feelings that afternoon when Noemi came to gently remind him that Skye would be home soon. "He was so close to his grandmother, and he feels things so deeply. I'm really worried about how he’ll handle the news." 

"Ugh, I'm such a plumhole!" Luigi swore “I was so wrapped up in myself I hadn’t even considered that, and I have no idea how to help him with this… no wait! Maybe a special drink to soften the blow?“

 Noemi didn’t dispute his plan, such as it was. "It couldn’t hurt to show him we care in small ways. Bringing him to Orange’s place for the memorial tonight should help him come to terms as well“. She frowned. “As long as we aren’t interrupted by fans or those paparazzi vultures.”

Skye's reaction was pretty much exactly what his parents had expected. As soon as they told him he started to sob, quickly pushing back his chair and running from the room. The sound of his bedroom door closing followed shortly thereafter. "Should we go after him?" Luigi asked his wife, unsure. 

"Let's give him some time" she said "This is really his first time dealing with the death of a loved one. He was so little when your dad passed. Why don't we get dressed for dinner first and then check on him? He’ll be able to catch his breath, and we’ll still have time to answer his questions before we go."

It turned out Skye was less blindsided by the news than his father. "Grandma told me she'd be going to the ever after soon" he explained when they came to see him a few minutes later. "She said she was looking forward to being with Grandpa again… but I’m still really going to miss her.” 

“Me too, buddy." Luigi agreed "She moved in with my dads and me when I was just a toddler and was as much a parent to me as they were.”

Noemi put an arm around her son. We're going to her dad's house to see your Uncle Scott and Aunt Kelsie for dinner tonight; and we can all share the ways she made us feel loved. You don’t have to share if you don't want too though, it's up to you. Are you ready to get dressed so we can go?"

Skye nodded solemnly and went to get ready. Settling outside his door to wait Luigi turned to Noemi, a question in his eyes. 

"I never even considered, dad and mom and papa… how's that going to work!? Dad and mom weren't together romantically until after papa passed." He paused then, his eyes widening with fear and concern. "Noemi… what about us, and Kiana…??

Noemi was quick to put him at ease about their own relationship "Honey, you know as well as anyone that my marriage to Kiana had been one of convenience for ages before her death. I’ll be happy to see her, but I was never more than a poor stand-in for her previous partner, who she’s reunited with now.”

I’m only interested in a relationship with YOU." She leaned in to demonstrate the depth of her romantic interest in him, and him alone. 

"Your parents" she continued after breaking away from her husband's relieved kiss "are a different story. They’ll need to come to some sort of arrangement, I imagine" she chuckled "but I suspect they’ll figure it out. Like you told Skye, the three of them lived together for years."

That evening Valentina's family gathered at her father Orange's ancestral home in the Del Sol Valley Hills to celebrate her life. 

"Thanks for hosting this privately." Luigi said as his famous step-grandfather greeted them at the door and led them to the front patio where everything was setup for their meal. “I mostly enjoy interacting with my fans, but I don’t think I could bear paparazzi and the public bothering me right now. I don't know how you’ve managed all these centuries without building a moat around this place!“

Orange stared at him, bewildered "Luigi… hasn't anyone told you about the celebrity disguise!?" Now it was Luigi's turn to stare. Shaking his head in disbelief Orange continued “you must REALLY love the attention to have gotten this far without knowing about THAT. I’ll fill you in during dinner.”

The family spent a pleasant evening reminiscing about the dearly departed sim that had touched all their lives so deeply. Before they left for the night Orange was even kind enough to let young Skye post a picture of him and Luigi together for his ever-growing simstagram account.

They all felt better following the meal, and after helping with his homework Noemi introduced Skye to one more way to center his emotions.

“These are yoga mats” she began. “Yoga is an exercise that helps me relax, and I’ve read it can also help with your asthma. It's been a long stressful day, and I think we could all enjoy a little time here under the stars together. You up to following along with your father and I?”

Skye nodded, and their little family began a tradition that night that would serve them well as they dealt with life’s many ups and downs.

View The Full Story of My Not So Berry Challenge Here

[anamoon63]

Then Allan and Zoe moved from words to action. Mind you, they were careful not to be too loud. They don’t want the kids to overhear them. (Muffled giggles sound).

Fortunately for them, Anika did get Zeke to fall asleep quickly. And Lukas is already resting in Morpheus’ arms too.

Kennedy had long since gone to bed, and Anika herself was dying of sleep, so she left the study for a later time and went to bed as well. That was one of the most peaceful nights for the Wilsons in their beloved Del Sol Valley home, when all was still peace and happiness for them. 🩷

[honeyjars-sims]

1.47 I Won't Be Home for Christmas

Lexie: So I guess this is Christmastime in Del Sol Valley.

Johnny: Yeah, it’s no winter wonderland. I bet it’s more festive in Brindleton Bay. Are you going there for Winter Break?

Lexie: Well, I was supposed to, but my mom just told me that she and my dad are going skiing on Mt. Komorebi this year. 

Johnny: Oh, that sounds nice. Are you going with them?

Lexie: Nope. It was pretty last minute and they won’t be getting back until after the new semester starts.

Johnny: You sound disappointed.

Lexie: I am. I didn’t get to see them on my birthday, and now this. I’ve never not spent Christmas with my parents. It’s extra hard because I’ve been feeling a little homesick lately. I’ve never been away from my family this long.

Johnny: I’m sorry, baby. You’re welcome to spend Christmas with me and my family if you want.

Lexie: Are you sure? I wouldn’t want to intrude.

Johnny: Yeah, my parents would love to have you over! They’ve been hounding me to bring you around.

Lexie: Well, in that case, I’d love to come! I have a feeling your family knows how to entertain.

Johnny: Oh, for sure! There’s never a dull moment when we get together. I know it doesn’t make up for you missing out on time with your family, but I’m glad we’ll get to spend the holiday together.

Lexie: Me too. Christmas has always been a big holiday in my family. I was just thinking about my favorite Christmas memory. When I was 6, my parents surprised me with my favorite stuffed animal. You remember that little white dog from the dog food commercials?

Johnny: Yeah, he was so cute!

Lexie: I was obsessed with that dog. Apparently they made him into a stuffed animal and that’s what my parents gave me that year. I named him Snowflake and I took him everywhere. After a while he was more of a dingy gray.

Johnny: Aw, that’s cute! Do you still have him? Don’t tell anyone, but I still have my favorite stuffed cat from when I was a kid and I still sleep with it every night.

Lexie: I think that's sweet! Unfortunately our dog mistook Snowflake for a chew toy. My mom tried her best to salvage it, but it was a lost cause. I wish I still had him, though. Maybe having Snowflake to cuddle up with would help me feel less homesick.

Johnny: I’m sorry you’re missing home so much. I know I can’t replace Snowflake, but if you ever need a cuddle buddy, you know I’m here.

Lexie: Hmm, well, you’re not as soft and fluffy, but you’re still pretty cuddly. What’s your favorite Christmas memory? 

Johnny: Well, Christmas growing up was pretty rough. We didn’t have much money and my mom usually had to work so it was never much of a thing in my house.

Lexie: Oh, I’m sorry. I keep forgetting you didn’t grow up like I did.

Johnny: That’s ok, I haven’t really talked about it much. Maybe I’ll tell you more about it someday. But things were much better once I moved in with my dads. 

Lexie: That’s good. What do they do for the holidays?

Johnny: Well, Dad is Jewish and Pops grew up Protestant so we do a secular “Chrismakkuh” thing where we combine traditions from Hanukkah and Christmas. On Christmas Eve we make cookies and popcorn and hunker down in the living room for the night to watch cheesy holiday movies. We get our sleeping bags and make snarky comments about the movies. 

Lexie: Oh, like those movies where a woman goes back to her hometown and discovers the true meaning of the holiday season, which always involves a guy?

Johnny: Yep. Our first Chrismakkuh together, my parents kept trying to get me hyped up, but I wasn’t having it. I was just being a typical 14-year-old who was too cool to hang out with his family. But I ended up having a great time. That’s probably my favorite memory. 

Lexie: It sounds like a lovely one.

Johnny: It was. I remember waking up the next morning with the TV still going and seeing the rest of my family still snoring away in their sleeping bags. That was the first time I really felt like I was home.

Lexie: I’m glad you finally got to make some positive holiday memories. That must have meant the world to you.

Johnny: It did. And it means the world to me that I’ll be making memories with you this year.

Previous | Beginning of story | Beginning of chapter | Next

[changingplumbob]

Villareal: Chapter 6, Part 2

Saturdays are for toddlers.

For ease of reading if the toddlers are trying to say real words I'll put the English in brackets. Luna (mummy) and Devin (mama) use some German and Italian. Buongiorno (Italian) Good morning Caro (Italian) Dear Nonna/Nonno (Italian) Grandfather/Grandmother Piccolo (Italian) Little one Schnucki (German) Sweetie but doesn’t have an exact translation Zia/Zio (Italian) Aunt/Uncle

Devin: Good luck working on the game

Joey: Thanks. I’ll see you later

Alfred: Bye bye Zio Joey

Devin scoops Alfred up to take him to the bathroom so he can get a wash and a clean diaper.

Rilian: Up mummy, up! I like snuggle

Luna: Come here then schnucki. Oh mummy loves you

She puts the toddler back down as Devin brings in Alfred.

Devin: Special delivery, one bird in need of a bath

Alfred: *imitates bird*

Luna: Come here you

Rilian: Mama I had fun bath, we go play

Devin: No it’s not time for play yet

Rilian: But… I want to play

Rilian begins to toddle out of the room while Devin turns to Luna.

Devin: When does the memory kick in again? Come back caro!

Devin gets in front of him before he can get far and Luna can focus on Alfred.

Luna: So someone needs a bird bath?

Alfred: I pin gin (penguin) like Nonna made

Luna: Yeah, Nonna made a penguin for you and for Rilian didn’t she?

Alfred: I should thanks!

Luna: *laughs* That’s right schnucki

Rilian: Mama I want play

Devin: I know piccolo, you can play later. Mama really needs to talk to you about our manners

Rilian: Okay Mama, I stay

Devin: Thank you caro. Do you know why I said thank you?

Rilian: You happy I stay?

Devin: Si! When someone does something nice that makes you happy, you say thank you or thanks

Rilian: *singing* Thank you, thank you, thank you Mama

Devin: You’re welcome. Actually, let’s not worry about that yet. What do we say when we would like something?

Rilian: I can has please?

Devin: That’s it. Let’s practice

Rilian: *excitedly* What you be Mama, what you be?

Devin: *in accent* I am a merchant from a far away land. I have many things you can buy. Would you like to buy something

Rilian: Yes please Mama- ah, mer che (merchant)

Devin: What would you like

Rilian: Umm, I not know

Devin: You don’t know? How about some candy

Rilian: I not hung- hungry. Not hungry mama

Devin: That’s a shame, I have some great ice cream

Rilian: No thanks Mama, I have water please

Devin: You want some water

Rilian: YES

Devin: What are you planning with this water

Rilian: I play Mama

Devin: Rilian, caro, we have a pool and a pond already

Rilian: I not big for pool. I want me pool please

Devin: Well I’ll talk with Mummy and see what we can do

Rilian: YAY! Thank you Mama

Alfred: *singing* Splish splash, splash with Mummy, splish splish

Luna: Try keep some of that water in the bath schnucki

Alfred: Mummy?

Luna: Yes Alfred

Alfred: You love me?

Luna: Of course I do

Alfred: And Mama love me

Luna: She loves you very much

Alfred: I want say… I happy

Luna: Aww, thank you Alfred. That’s lovely to hear

Alfred: Duckie happy to *quacks*

All the work done by Devin and Luna this morning earns each of them a boost in their parenting skill, Devin goes up to level 8 and Luna hits level 7. All the talk has also boosted Alfred’s communication to level 4, his highest skill. Luna heads to the garden with the twins, Devin heads out for a jog and Joey is where he’s been all morning. Behind a computer screen in his pjs. He wants to make sure this debut video game is as good as it can be.

Turning on her drone, Devin is off. Time to talk to her fans!

Devin: Buongiorno everyone! We are having a beautiful fall day here in Del Sol Valley. I am lucky to live here in the Pinnacles. It couldn’t have been done without my hard working wife and all of your loyal support. Now, who wants to hear what I’ll be shooting this month?

Initially it was hard for Devin to jog and talk but she’s glad she stuck with it, it really is the easiest way to touch base with her fans. It’s not so different from the cheering she did in high school.

In the yard Alfred has taken over the chef station while Rilian is driving the food truck. The stove is a bit high for Alfred so Luna has brought him out some books to balance on.

Rilian: Honk honk! Out the way bird

Alfred: I not in way

Rilian: No you Alfe, you cook for me

Alfred: And we sell

Rilian: We be money

Luna: Rich schnucki

Twins: *visible confusion*

Luna: You don’t become money, you get money. And if you have lots of money you are rich

Rilian: Okay mummy

Alfred: We get money, be rich. I buy bird

Rilian: Our food good?

Alfred: I do best. Make it nice

Rilian: Make it pretty

Alfred: Yes Ri, pretty like Mama and like Mummy

Rilian: *giggles* And like us

Alfred: YES. Okay I bring now

Rilian: Honk honk! We open! Come! Give money

Alfred: You buy

Rilian: No, you buy

Alfred: I make

Rilian: But I drive *honking noises*

Alfred: Okay Ri. Hello

Rilian: Hello

Alfred: Can I has burger please

Rilian: What you pay

Alfred: Kissy *blows kiss*

Rilian laughs and grabs at the air trying to catch it.

After the twins have finished playing with the food truck their imagination climbs to level 2. Enjoying their playtime they move on to other toys. They mostly play in their own worlds, Alfred is in a land of dinosaurs while Rilian is in a castle of squeaky toys. While they play Luna is doing laps in the pool. She is determined to try shake her latest fear of water before the weather gets to cold. Not that it ever really gets too cold in Del Sol Valley.

Previous ... Next

[eljeebee]

Regarding to my recent post, Del Sol Vanderburgs is my (poor) attempt trying to do royalty simblr. I'm so in awe with everyone's royal families here so I just had to write one.

Originally, the Vanderburgs in my stories are the Vanderburgs from The Sims 3 Hidden Springs. I actually played a family there, and followed their background story, with my own sim marrying Sebastian Vanderburg (so sorry Ella Carlisle).

I lost the original save file for it, even the household, so I cannot replicate them anymore...and I don't want to remake them anyway. So in memory of that save file, I wrote Del Sol Vanderburgs : a small branch of the family that moved to Del Sol Valley.

Because the main branch of the family are more old-fashioned, they were actually against Margaux marrying Prince Seamus I. It reminds them of King Sebastian and Queen Anna (which is another superstar actress). In the family's defense, Anna had noble backgrounds through her father...and to them, Margaux is just...a commoner.

So like, they're the...black sheep...of the family. The reason the family is still in contact with them is because the Queen Mother adores the twins.

Anyways.......I have a lot in store for them. Who knows what will happen...👀👀

[simxess]

Mt. Komorebi Trip

Their last day in Mt. Komorebi was greeted with a gentle rain over the city. Though the weather was less than ideal, Cassidy, Gil, and Peyton were determined to make the most of it and immerse themselves in the culture before heading home.

First on their agenda was visiting a famous shrine nestled in the valley. Armed with umbrellas and raincoats, they navigated the cobblestone paths, the sound of raindrops blending with the soft hum of nature around them. Gil, with his trusty camera in hand, stopped frequently to snap photos of the intricate shrine architecture.

As they crossed a wooden bridge over a serene stream, Gil suddenly yelped and swatted at his arm.

“Something bit me!” he exclaimed, shaking his arm as the bug fell off.

Cassidy chuckled. “It’s just a bug, Gil. You’ll survive.”

“It was huge! Like… mutant huge!” he insisted, inspecting the bite. Thankfully, it was harmless, and they all had a good laugh at his expense as they continued on their way.

Their walk through the valley eventually led them to a grand temple. The rain had eased into a light drizzle by then, making it easier to explore the sacred space.

They marveled at the sights, and even participated in the local tradition of making wishes silently hope for good fortune.

Peyton captured the moment, ensuring they had plenty of memories to look back on.

As the sun set, they made their way to a cozy lounge on the other side of town. Cassidy and Gil enjoyed a quiet drink and admired the view of the city lights through the large glass windows, while Peyton wandered around and stumbled upon another Yamachan statue.

“I swear, this place is Yamachan central,” she laughed, positioning herself for yet another selfie.

As she adjusted her phone, a group of teens around her age approached. They seemed curious but friendly, and soon they struck up a conversation.

Despite some language barriers, Peyton was eager to practice her Komorebigo, drawing from lessons she’d taken online. When things got tricky, they pulled out a translation app to keep the conversation flowing.

The teens turned out to be really cool, sharing stories about life in Mt. Komorebi and asking Peyton questions about Del Sol Valley. Laughter bridged the language gap as they compared favorite movies, music, and hobbies.

“Peyton!” Cassidy called from across the street. “We need to start packing soon, remember?”

Peyton sighed but smiled, knowing the trip was almost at its end. She hugged her new friends and promised to follow them on social media before rejoining her mom and Gil.

As they headed back to the rental for one final night of packing and rest, Peyton couldn’t help but feel grateful for the trip. It had been full of adventure, new experiences, and memories that would last a lifetime. Mt. Komorebi had left its mark on all of them, and as they prepared to return to Del Sol Valley, they knew this was a journey they’d never forget.

Previous

[blackcatsims]

Speaking of hyperfixations...

One of my latest is Chappell Roan. I know, I know, I'm 34 now and it's weird. I think I'm just going to have to accept it.

So I made a Chappell Roan INSPIRED sim. I say inspired because I just made her face from memory (as opposed to copying a picture) and because I wanted to put my own spin on her and her story.

So, instead of being from the american midwest, my sim is from Moonwood Mill. Inspired by Roan's album "Midwest Princess" I decided to name my sim "Moonwood Princess". Which brings me to the main difference between Chappell Roan and Moonwood Princess: Moonwood is a werewolf.

Her parents' relationship is going strong despite her mother being the alpha of the Moonwood Collective, and her father being alpha of the Wildfangs.

When Moonwood aged into a young adult she left her small town behind and followed her dreams to the bright lights Del Sol Valley.

She still thinks about her high school sweetheart, a werewolf who swept Moonwood off her feet when, out on the deck, she put her canine teeth ... well, you know the rest.

She's a little distracted at the moment. She's been charmed by an evil creature from the sea ... I think you know the rest of that too.