#sims4nsbstraud

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Today's (10/17/2024) Episode: Tough Decisions

When Luigi got home from the stadium, he had the unenviable job of telling his wife what Doc had said.

Noemi eyed the wrist brace he’d slipped on as soon as he arrived suspiciously while he began with the good news of his victory. Her expression darkened as he moved on to recounting the trainer’s suspicions and his flimsy justifications for ignoring everyone’s warnings and advice to rest his hand.

"Lu… your job is not as important as your health!" she eventually berated him. “I can’t believe I have to babysit you, but you’ll make the same dumb choices about your next tournament and Rainy Day’s inevitable request for DLC and updates to Watcher Tales if I don’t keep an eye on you…!" 

Given the way he was feeling just then, Luigi couldn't even argue with her. He'd achieved those all-important professional goals, but at what cost?

The price for his hubris was revealed at Luigi’s appointment with the hand specialist. With a few tests Dr. Cody confirmed Doc Leonard’s suspicion that Luigi had sustained some permanent nerve damage and echoed the trainer's assessment that surgery was the best option for his long-term recovery. 

"I’m definitely not interested in surgery“ Luigi told her right away, prompting Noemi to question "Lu, what could it hurt to learn more about…”

He fired back unusually gruffly: "No! absolutely not" before asking the Dr. “What else can you offer me, because surgery isn't happening."

They finally settled on trying steroid injections.

“The effectiveness varies patient to patient and the benefits are only temporary” the provider told them “but they should offer you some relief. I also strongly recommend you change your lifestyle and minimize activities that aggravate your condition. That includes intensive computer work." 

Luigi was glad to see some improvement after his first injection. He also finally accepted the fact that something had to give in his professional life. In the end that decision was a simple one, even if it broke his heart a little to do what he felt he had to do.

A few days after his championship win Luigi was seated in the press room with Rainy Day’s E-Sports coaching staff.

"From the time I was a teenager I knew I wanted to play SimScuffle professionally" he began “As many of you know I got my start on Foxbury’s collegiate team, and when that amazing journey ended, I was lucky enough to be recruited by Rainy Day.” He paused and took a deep breath.

“Today I’m here to announce that I am officially retiring from competitive play.”

The teams head coach took over then “Luigi’s mentorship abilities and strategic insights have elevated our team’s profile and performance immensely. We are excited to transition him into a permanent role as our new director of strategy and recruitment. We’re looking forward to what the future holds.”

As he focused his attention on the press and prepared to answer questions Luigi reflected that, while this was not the way he’d wanted his E-Sports career to end, he was eager to tackle this new challenge in the days and weeks to come.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/19/2024) Episode: Market Mayhem

Before Luigi had a chance to sit down and start overanalyzing his SimTube trends he got an unexpected phone call.

It seemed Grandpa Steven’s spirit had popped into the world of the living for a visit and wanted to see his family at the Flea Market. Since his son had less opportunity to visit with his ancestors than Luigi had growing up at the homestead, he quickly agreed.

“We’ll be right there.” he said, hanging up and turning to his wife. “We have to go see my grandpa… I think you’ll like him; he was an author.”

“Steven Lothario?” Noemi asked, “I’ve enjoyed a few of his books. As I recall he was a recluse who preferred the company of his llama to throngs of adoring fans; I think we’ll get along just fine.” Luigi wasn’t sure he’d characterize his grandfather as a recluse, but he wasn’t going to contradict her on that perceived similarity.

Arriving at the market Luigi quickly said hi to the ghost who Noemi recognized from his book jackets before introducing her and Skye “It’s a pleasure to meet you” Steven told her, then turned to his great-grandson “Well hello Skye! Just like your shirt, hmm. Is that your favorite color?”

Noemi cringed inwardly at the crowd of people gathered at the market across the way, but she didn’t get a chance to dwell on it. Suddenly someone called out “I can’t believe it! It’s the Wedding Dancers!” Luigi headed over to say hello while Noemi waved shyly.

Focused on the stranger, neither parent saw Skye panic as his grandfather went to give him a hug, but they heard Steven yelp as their son kicked him.

Luigi didn’t break away from taking a selfie with the fan, judging that he could deal with the latest hijinks of his tiny terror afterward.

Noemi jumped in right away but was distracted from the actual sources of the commotion when she spotted a paparazzo eagerly snapping photos inches from the angry toddler and the spirit rubbing his smarting shin, with her seemingly uncaring husband directly in the background.

She’d heard Luigi complain about his public image often enough to know that this wouldn’t be a good look, so she stepped directly between him and the camera as she apologized to the ancestral spirit. “I’m so sorry, he’s been having some issues dealing with his feelings lately.”

Steven nodded, rubbing his leg “I had two of my own, I know how it is. He’s stronger than he looks!”  He smiled fondly at the pouting baby, whose mother had turned her back to the photographer as she scooped him up to scold him for his bad behavior.

Luigi finished with the fan and headed back their way. Putting Skye down, Noemi turned to him and explained what had happened.

Before he could say anything Steven piped up “Paparazzi!? Oh no. I’d hate to have a picture like that get into the paper.” Luigi knew his grandfather had always been shy about public attention, rarely taking interviews, preferring to let his work speak for itself. Even Luigi wasn’t thrilled about this interaction. As much as he loved the spotlight, he had a strong desire to control how his image and reputation were presented in the media.

“They’re the scum of the earth!” he agreed. “Why don’t all of you go into the gaming center, get out of the open? I’ll see if I can talk her into using the least unflattering images.”

Noemi gave him a worried look but was feeling too overwhelmed just then to argue. “Please don’t do anything rash” she pleaded as she left.

“Come on little man” Steven told Skye as they headed inside “We’ll find a table and I can show you the book I wrote for your daddy when he was just a little bit younger than you are now.”

Luigi spotted his target standing a few steps away, reviewing the footage on her camera. Just seeing the look of satisfaction on her face made his temperature rise, but he did his best to control his anger as he headed over to have a little chat with the unwanted intruder into his family reunion.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/18/2024) Episode: Back to Reality

Noemi and Luigi popped home just long enough to drop off their Batuu souvenirs and bags , then headed right back out to pick up Skye and Blossom.

“It was great to have some time just for us” Noemi said as they climbed the steps to Isra and Rhy’s place “but I’m ready to see my baby!” Luigi just smiled and nodded. He didn’t feel nearly as ready to dive back into “that parenthood life”, but he wasn’t about to disappoint her by saying so.

They waved at Isra and the kids through the door, but as soon as little Skye spotted his mom he took off like a tiny parent-seeking rocket.

Isra wasn’t able to catch him in time and the toddler smacked face first into the nearly invisible glass. Fortunately, maternal comfort was close at hand. “Shhh, you’re OK, mommy and daddy are here now, we missed you so much.” Noemi whispered as she wrapped him in a hug.

“momma back now” Skye echoed, his tears subsiding quickly under her loving ministrations as his little friend played happily beside him, quite used to his drama by now. Luigi was hanging back to let Noemi handle it when Isra stepped up next to him to have a quiet private word.

“Luigi” she began “I have to tell you; Skye was a little… aggressive while he was here. He was fine with the older kids, but we had some issues with the infants. First, he bit Orson when he tried to take a toy Skye was playing with. Then yesterday, during a playdate with Beau and Breanne on the beach, he hit Betty after she accidently messed up his sandcastle. We convinced Beau not to bother you, but he’s pretty mad. You should talk to him.”

Luigi didn’t know what to say, finally landing on “I’m sorry about that. I know Skye likes things just so and he’s not used to sharing.”

Gesturing towards the back patio where Noemi had settled with the tiny terror in question for a game of peek-a-boo he continued “He was obviously missing us too. I’m sure now that we’re back, he’ll calm down. Also, thanks for the heads up about Beau, I’ll call him soon.”

Isra followed Luigi outside to join the others. Wanting to make sure she knew he was taking the information she’d provided seriously Luigi wasted no time filling Noemi in: “Honey, Isra was telling me that Skye here wasn’t very nice to the little ones while we were gone.”

Noemi was appalled when she heard what had happened, immediately telling Skye: “We don’t treat other sims that way! We have to be nice to our friends or they won’t want to play with us. Now you say sorry to Ms. Isra, and then we’re going to go find Orson and say sorry to him too.”

“Sorry” Skye parroted, looking vaguely in Isra’s direction “Thank you” she replied “Everybody makes mistakes. I’m sure Orson will forgive you too.”

As Noemi led Skye inside to the nursery, where Isra indicated the twins had just woken up from a nap, Rhys appeared. “Welcome back man!” he greeted Luigi “Can you believe the hype around the video you posted of your wedding dance!?”

“What hype?” Luigi said, all ears. “Part of the Batuu experience is avoiding interaction with the outside world as much as possible.”

Rhys shook his head in disbelief “Oh wow, they really keep you isolated at that theme park. Well, come on upstairs – you’ve got to see this.”

Luigi could hardly believe the millions of views listed under his SimTube video. “People are talking about it, and you, everywhere” Rhys told him “I know the PR department at work is going to want to capitalize on this while it’s still viral. I’d say you’re a proper celebrity now – congratulations!”

Thanking Rhys for the good news Luigi hurried downstairs to find Blossom and leave. He was eager get home and take a serious look at his SimTube analytics dashboard. His older videos were sure to be seeing an uptick in viewership thanks to this, and he was dying to review everything.

Noemi wasn’t thrilled to be the other half of the dance video that was apparently sweeping the nation, but she tried her best to take it in stride. She knew Luigi loved the fans and the fame, and she loved him. It was why she’d agreed to let him film them after all.

Collecting Blossom from under their friend’s couch, they agreed to catch up again soon before heading down the beach towards home.

In game I actually moved Skye into Isra’s household to live “that NPC life” for a couple days while I took his parents on their honeymoon, and this is what I came back to 🤪🤭!

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/13/2024) Episode: Mission Interruptus

As Noemi and Luigi approached the leader of the local rebel faction about their next mission, they were surprised to see her throw her spanner to the ground and let loose with a string of forbidden words. She jumped as she noticed the pair. “Forgive me! You must be our hard-working new recruits. I have some good news and some bad news for you. The good news is that if I can’t fix my ship, then we can’t be shot down.”

“Is there anything we can do to help?” Noemi asked, since that seemed to be the obvious path forward here.

“Well, I can always use more hands to rustle up possible replacement parts, but I’d most appreciate help avoiding that “shoot us down” thing. I hear you’re pretty handy with a data spike. If you can use this to scramble the First Order’s tracking system, our odds of surviving our trip go way up.”

Luigi wanted to try the hacking minigame on this mission. They traveled to the First Order main control tower and found an access panel tucked out of the way. He inserted the data spike and asked Noemi to watch his back as he worked to penetrate the layers of protection.

“Don’t worry” she replied, “if I see any sign of a patrol, I’ll alert you. Just watch out for the countermeasure programs, this one looks tougher.”

Luigi smiled nervously as he began the process of rewriting the code. Logically he knew it was all pretend, but the park did their job well and just like the day before it felt very real. He was almost done when Noemi called out “You might want to hurry it up, I see a Storm Trooper headed this way”.

He fumbled a sequence in his haste and was shocked, literally, when the screen flashed red and arced with “harmless” static electric defenses.

That famous special effect was supposed to be safe, but suddenly Luigi’s mousing hand went completely numb. He started dropping forbidden words left and right as he massaged a hand that felt like dead wood. Noemi rushed over, roleplaying forgotten as she asked what was wrong.

“My hand… I can’t feel my hand” he gasped out “I made a mistake, got shocked. It’s supposed to be immersive, but this doesn’t feel OK at all!”

Noemi did her best to comfort him. “Hang in there, we’ll figure this out.” She paused then, asking quietly “Could this have anything to do with your Carpel Tunnel? I know that makes your hand “fall asleep” sometimes, but they should have accounted for that if it was going to be a problem when they programmed your data pad. Did you put that on the medical form they gave us to fill out at check-in?”

Luigi hung his head “No. I didn’t see what difference it could make.” He didn’t add that he hadn’t wanted to be restricted from any missions, but he wasn’t fooling his spouse by leaving that out. Noemi sighed “I gotta be honest, that was a boneheaded move. Still, what’s done is done. Let’s find the first aid station, we need to get you looked at, and maybe they should check over that machine too.”

By the time they located the nearest first aid station and got checked in Luigi was feeling relatively better. The pins and needles were uncomfortable, but at least he could feel something and just then that was a vast improvement.

The medic confirmed that the shock had likely inflamed Luigi’s Carpel Tunnel. After a stern reminder to list all medical conditions on the waiver for his own safety she reprogrammed his datapad to prevent future shock effects. “You can try the mission again, but you’ll be at a disadvantage if you don’t wait to recover full use of that hand first.”

Exiting the clinic Noemi asked “OK, so we’ve got some time to kill. What do you want to do?”

“Honestly” Luigi replied, “After that what I need is a stiff drink!”

Goal in mind, their path turned once more to their favorite attraction: The Cantina. Luigi got his stiff drink, but he’d forgotten just how stiff some of them could be!

The Dagobah Slug Slinger was low in sugar because its juices had been converted into high-octane punch. He was also much older than the last time he’d had this particular “park exclusive”, and his tolerance had fallen off with his drinking habits, now that his diet excluded his favorite cocktails.

Noemi fought hard to hold back a laugh when she realized her spouse was literally reeling. “Come on champ” she said, “It’s time to get you to bed.”

“But the miz-shon…” Luigi slurred plaintively. “Can wait until morning” she replied.

Gathering him under her arm Noemi helped her tipsy boy towards the door, asking on the way “How’s your hand?”

“Ach’y” he said with a big sigh “Itz not fair!” “No, its not fair” she agreed, kissing him lightly on the cheek “and I’m sorry, but I’ll make sure to grab an ice pack on the way to our room for you.”

“I wuv you” he blubbered “I know” she replied with a chuckle as she led them both slowly down the path towards some much-needed rest.

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Today's (10/30/2024) Episode: An Evening of Contests

After a morning spent gaming and learning indoors, Luigi’s family and their foundation friends were ready to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.

He’d prepared a fun and wholesome event to cap off the foundation livestream, gathering everyone on a nearby beach. Isra, who still worked at the Observe to Conserve foundation took point, explaining a bit of the conservation work they did, and also specifically how trash left on the beach by careless Sims could harm not just the beauty of the environment, but also the health of the native plants and animals living there.

Then she and Luigi showed off a collection of prizes. They divided the attendees into small groups and promised first choice of prizes to whichever group collected the most trash over the next hour or so.

The kids of various ages were excited to roam up and down the beach, picking up anything that didn’t belong and collecting inventories full of trash they hoped to exchange for priority access to one prize or another they had liked.

Some of them, especially the younger ones, were perhaps a bit more distracted exploring the pretty beach than cleaning it, but Isra had experience with this. As they got closer to the designated time she made regular announcements, and by the last 5 minutes everyone was clustered around the last few uncleaned feet of beach hunting for last minute “treasures”.

Yoshi collected great footage of it all, including Isra’s little awards ceremony and her final pitch for the kids to keep Sulani Beautiful as they left.

After the kids dispersed with their winnings, Luigi headed back to the gaming center where he had arranged to meetup with Professor Silva.

He wasn’t the only one looking forward to seeing his old faculty mentor.  A number of his old Foxbury E-Sports teammates came too, engaging in an impromptu mini-tourney. Much to the chagrin of the professional e-sports players there, Luigi’s college fling Jade won the day.

Yoshi was taking a charging break, but Skye captured several pictures of his father’s defeat, not that Lawbourne senior was too broken up about his loss. “Some of my fondest memories are playing games with you guys at the University commons, and this was a great walk down memory lane!”

“If you’re up for more reminiscing, the E-Sports team has their big game coming up in just a few hours” Professor Silva mentioned. “I’d love for you all to head back to campus with me and cheer on my current crew; maybe pick out your favorites for the Rainy Day internship program?”

Noemi and several others were only too happy to spin into their winter wear and teleport to the stadium at their old Alma Mater.

“Your mom and I made so many great memories here” Luigi told his son as they walked through campus. “When you’re old enough we should take the college tour so you can see everything Foxbury has to offer.” Skye nodded shyly, not wanting to disappoint his parents, but in truth the big, cold lot intimidated him. He wasn’t so sure about this whole “university” thing.

The game was well worth the price of admission. The two teams were neck and neck all evening, but in the end, for the first time in a long time, Foxbury won the day. “You did it – congrats man!” Luigi enthused to his old mentor as they were leaving the stadium.

 “Thank you for supporting the team,” Coach Silva replied, “I’ve got to get back to my champions, but your advice and help made a big difference.”

By the time the game ended it was quite late, but no one wanted to go to bed without ringing in the new year. To that end they made their way back to the gaming center to end the evening in style. 

“Shushubie… shushubie… Fleeba Zoob!” the large group of Luigi’s favorite sims cried as the New Year’s countdown ticked over to midnight.

A recharged Yoshi was cruising the crowd with the other streaming cameras, capturing the celebration as everyone thanked their viewers for contributing to the big fundraiser earlier in the day. With hugs all around, and a strange question from Skye about how long teeth took to digest (where, Luigi wondered, did kids get these ideas!?) the large happy family started the new year off right: with a dance party of course.

Luigi didn’t know how things would look a year from now, but it seemed unlikely he’d be able to top that day’s accomplishments.

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Today's (10/10/2024) Episode: Naughty or Nice

Noemi had been overjoyed to get Denton’s invitation and jumped right into grilling him when they arrived “Congratulations! Tell us everything!”

“Well,” Denton began “We had already arranged to adopt Peter after the holidays, but Hunter called this morning. Apparently, a scared young wolf desperately needed a room, and The Collective asked if the missus and I could help them out by taking our boy a bit sooner than planned.”

At Luigi’s puzzled look around for the rest of the family Denton continued: “Bridget’s visiting her folks with Markus while Peter gets comfortable here, but I realized that for someone used to The Collective, it’s far too quiet. That’s why I asked you to come over and say hi when I saw you on the news.”

On the other side of the room Peter was definitely not lonely anymore; proudly posing for a picture in front of his magnificent new dollhouse.

The boys were happily playing when out of nowhere Father Winter popped out of the fireplace! They immediately stopped what they were doing to run over and say hello, excitedly asking for presents from the jolly old elf.

“Happy Winterfest young man and congratulations on your new forever family!” Father Winter told Peter. As he ran to his father for help unboxing his gift, Skye waited expectantly for his own special surprise. However, instead of producing a second gayly wrapped package the old sim shook his head.

Confusion turned to mortification as Skye realized he was being rebuffed and he started  cry, devastated and clueless as to why this was happening.

The mythical holiday mascot rose to take his leave, only to find his path blocked by the slighted sims furious father. “I don’t know what your problem is” Luigi cried “But giving Peter a gift right in front of my boy and then turning him away, on his birthday no less, is just cruel.”

“Skye was denied a gift because of his misbehavior as a toddler.” Father Winter replied sagely “If he’s a good child next year things will be different when I visit again.” Skye, who was still sobbing in his mothers arms a few feet away whimpered “I’m sorry! I promise I’ll be good.”

Once again Luigi had to bring every one of the anger management coping skills he’d learned in therapy to bear to refrain from slugging the smug old sim right in the face. “YOU.ARE.THE.WORST!” he finally said, stepping away from the door and going to join Noemi in consoling his distraught little boy.

Once Skye calmed down Luigi told Denton “We need to get going man, we’re running late to a potluck on the beach with my teammates and their kids.”

“No problem” Denton replied, “Say hello to Beau for me.” He paused as he got to the door. “Sorry about what happened with Father Winter. If I’d realized I would have warned you, that Plumhole pulled the same stunt on me for the same reason when I was Skye’s age.”

“Not your fault” Luigi shrugged, “You had no way of knowing. Anyway, thanks for having us over and congratulations, Peter seems like a great kid.”

Turning back to Skye and Noemi Luigi asked them “Are you ready to go see our island friends and end the night right?” Skye nodded, smiling through his tears, and the three of them left the city behind to head to their final Winterfest destination on the sunny shores of Sulani.

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NSB (Straud Legacy) Gen 9 Ep 99: A Little Love Day Assist

Luigi was still anxiously awaiting Peachy’s call the day before the Love Day that he had promised Noemi would be especially memorable.

He was starting to consider what kind of amateur romantic proposal he could whip up himself at the last minute when his father finally let him know that everything was ready for them in Oasis Springs. He’d really expected someplace more like Tartosa, well known for its romantic atmosphere, but he trusted whatever love guru his dad had consulted and gratefully agreed to bring Noemi there after classes the following day.

Usually this close to a big game Luigi wouldn’t miss practice with his team, but his fiery co-captain had pushed him to take the night off.

“Your highness has an heir on the way! You need to stock up on fun times and goodwill with your lady now, while you have the time and energy!”

Luigi smiled. “Is that the wisdom of a new father, or a cry for help? I’m happy to cover so you can have a night off with Bruce and Brianne sometime.”

Beau laughed in response. “Yes, yes, and yes! But right now, let’s talk early morning Love Day gift strategy.” His advice helped Luigi be ready with a novel to give Noemi after she surprised him with a beautiful card the next morning, starting their grand holiday adventure off right.

When the couple got to Oasis Springs that evening, they found Peachy and his “twin” waiting for them.

Luigi gave his dad a big hug as a thank you for helping him out while Noemi reintroduced herself to August. With a sly smile Peachy told him “I’m not the only one you’re going to need to thank son” before directing him to talk to his uncle to receive the couples first gift of the evening.

August’s contribution turned out to be a batch of Plentiful Needs potions, to help the pair enjoy the truly epic night to come without fatigue. There were four in total, and August suggested they set the extras aside for some later date when they needed the pick me up to deal with the baby.

Their first romantic stop of the evening was a couple's massage courtesy of the secret mastermind of this Love Day extravaganza, Grandpa Steven, and his twin, Luigi’s Great Uncle Spencer. Death had not dulled the brothers' skills in the slightest and their charges were feeling fantastic in no time.

Noemi opted for a foot massage to soothe feet swollen and sore from carrying their “big boy” with her everywhere while Luigi went with a hand massage to work out the kinks caused by long evenings on the SimScuffle “playing field”.

The couple thanked their caring elders before they moved on towards a horse and carriage just peeking through the trees at the edge of the park.

As they approached, they found Noemi’s parents waiting for them. Luigi was a bit worried after their last encounter with her mother, but Shannon seemed to be in a much better mood this time around. “I’ll be your chauffeur for the evening” she told him as Noemi hugged her dad hello.

Before Luigi and Gilbert helped the mom-to-be into the carriage she went over to greet their faithful steed. “Look at you! Not such a little guy anymore huh?” she murmured to Cheyenne, who had apparently been just a foal when she’d left home for university. Luigi had never seen her around horses prior to this, but it was obvious she had a big soft spot for the massive beasts, or at least this one.

Filing this new knowledge away for later the men got their lady safely settled in her chariot, where she snuggled into Luigi’s open arms with a contented sigh as her mother flicked the reins and started them on their way up into the hills.

By the time they arrived at their destination the sun was setting. They found another glowing ghost waiting for them at the entrance of a small cave.

Great-Grandma Daisy was a loner and didn’t come around to visit the homestead much, but like most of the family ghosts she had always liked Steven.

When she’d signed on to assist with his little plan, she had actually been the one to suggest the location for the outing. It was a good fit for both Luigi’s love of warm climates and Noemi’s anxiety when faced with crowds of unfamiliar sims (a struggle to which she could relate).

She introduced herself to the pair and explained that their final destination was a very special grotto she’d discovered as a young sim hundreds of years ago. After warning them to “be careful making any wishes at the well” she said their journey’s end awaited just inside.

Luigi was the first to step carefully into the dimly lit crystal cavern, reflecting on how lucky he was to have so many kind and supportive sims in his life. This date had far surpassed his expectations already and apparently it was only just beginning!

He had no idea what awaited them on the other side of the cave mouth, but something told him it would be truly magical.

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Today's (10/22/2024) Episode: Making Time For Romance

Skye’s doctor and eye appointments arrived shortly after Luigi’s meetup with his old coach. Both visits had been scheduled after school, leaving his parents with the day to themselves and time to kill.

They started out in the living room, Noemi diving into a novel while Luigi fired up a game of Manic Matchums on the virtual gaming mat he’d received when he got promoted. However, it wasn’t long before he sensed her standing beside him, a pensive look on her face.

As soon as he turned off the program she lamented “The book is good, but I can’t concentrate. I’m worried about Skye. He already struggles so much with his emotions; I don’t know how he’ll react if he gets bad news tonight.”

“I know” Luigi replied “I was pretty distracted myself honestly. I think what we need is to get out of here for awhile, and I know just the place. You ready to take another trip down memory lane?” “Sure” she said “Anything is better than sitting around the house stewing. Lead the way!”

In no time the pair arrived at the gym and spa near their old apartment in the city. “Odd choice to take your mind off your worries” Noemi said, “Seeing as how the last time we were here you were having a pretty bad day.”

“Yes” Luigi agreed “but the lesson from that day was that a certain special lady helped me got over it quickly.” He pulled her into his arms and delivered a long, romantic kiss. “I’m sure she’ll do just as fine a job helping our son deal with whatever he learns tonight.”

Noemi smiled softly and ducked out from under his arms. “I always do my best for you troublesome little Lawbournes. Now we better get a move on so we have some time left after our workout to relax.” She jogged towards the entrance calling out over her shoulder: “Do try to keep up!”

“Arugh!” Luigi cried  a couple hours later, swinging his arm in a controlled arc and smacking the punching bag in front of him with a satisfying thunk. Stripping off his gloves he turned to his wife, “I don’t know about you, but that was just what I needed.”

“Agreed” Noemi said, removing her own gear “Now I’m too tired to think! Come on, let’s sit down and catch our breath, then maybe we can get in a swim or have a little fun in the sauna before heading back” she winked “just like old times…”

“… and you actually came hobbling up to me the next evening before practice with the 5 simoleons!” Noemi laughed “I couldn’t believe you thought I would take your money! That stupid dunking contest was my idea and then I had to watch you limping around campus for a week – I felt terrible!”

“Hey, a bets a bet” Luigi chuckled “and to be fair, you convinced me to give up on the game and relax. It was running around playing amateur firefighter when I got home that really did me in. Then you spent that week, I’ll never forget it, joining me for dinner and bringing me my meal so I didn’t have to stand in line. It was so sweet. By the end of it I was crazier about you than ever!”

“I should have known it was too good to last” Luigi groaned as the flash of cameras interrupted their tete a tete “how do they keep finding us!?”

“I have no idea, it’s not like we were even planning to be out” Noemi replied. “Do you think they’ll cause any trouble at the doctors office tonight?”

“I’ll call ahead and arrange a discreet exam room” he replied, rising to shoo away the paparazzi “But I do think this is our cue to get out of here.”

They were headed towards the exit when a tiny voice called out “Look mom – its Mr. Luigi!” and a small boy came running over “You’re the best scuffle player ever – I want to be just like you one day!” Luigi grinned, much happier to talk with his fans than deal with nosy paparazzi.

“I need a quick shower.” Luigi said as they got home. He spun out of his sweaty clothes, but didn’t quite reach the tub before he was ambushed.

Noemi’s strong arms spun him back into a hungry kiss; the towel she was wearing all that stood between them as he surrendered to her embrace.

“I love the way you think” he whispered, taking his eyes off her just long enough to turn on the water before pulling her into the tub with him.

They emerged, quite satisfied, just in time to hear the back door slam and Skye call out “Mom? Dad? Where are you?” “Well, I guess play time’s over” Luigi said, hollering back “We’ll be right there!” They had a big day ahead of them, and that morning had been a great start.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/2/2024) Episode: A Difference of Opinion

The guests had just begun trickling into Luigi and Noemi’s beachside wedding when the chefs finished preparing the fishy feast and refreshments. 

Fresh from the bar, the groom-to-be smiled indulgently as his papa pulled him aside. He could spin into his formal wear after one last round of advice.

To his surprise, his father wasn’t congratulating him on his blushing bride but instead concerned with their little boy. “Skye is old enough now to learn about his special status.” Jack said “If you need help teaching him about The Watcher and legacy heirs just let me know. I’m happy to do my part”.

Luigi, unprepared, looked away. He had almost never disagreed with his papa, but he knew what he had to say on this topic wouldn’t go over well.

“Thanks for the offer” he finally began “but I’ve decided not to tell Skye about any of that. I think its better if he lives his life without those worries.”

Jack immediately blurted out “But son, you can’t keep who he really is from him! If this is about not wanting to give up the spotlight…”

“It’s not about the spotlight!” Luigi fired back “Yes, I can be a self absorbed plumhole, but that’s exactly why I won’t be telling my son about how “special” he is! I want him to have a chance at a normal life, without the idea that he’s somehow better than every other sim in the nation!”

Luigi had meant every word, but seeing the look on Jack’s face he immediately regretted his outburst. “I’m sorry papa” he said, hanging his head.

Jack reached out a hand in reassurance “Its OK, but if you have time, I think we need to talk. I promise not to try and pressure you into anything.”

Luigi nodded. He’d meant to broach this subject much more gently, but clearly, he had a lot of resentment built up around it that he hadn’t ever explored. He texted Noemi that he’d join her in a few minutes and waved his father’s shade over to the nearby banquet table.

He hoped he could help his father understand without driving a wedge between them.

Once they were seated Jack started things off “I never knew you struggled with the knowledge of your legacy heir status. You always seemed so proud of it. You never tired of hearing my stories about the Lacey’s.”

Luigi sighed. “I was a child who had very little contact with anyone outside our immediate family circle. You told me other sims here wouldn’t understand, but it wasn’t until I went to high school that I truly began to appreciate what that meant.”

“I had such a hard time fitting in, and it certainly didn’t help having this idea in my head that I was somehow better than everyone else. Even when I thought I was doing such a good job “hiding”; Beau saw right through me in University. I was so embarrassed, and that made me resent him more than I already did for being a better scuffle player then me. If I’m the heir, shouldn’t I be the best at anything I put my mind to!?”

“The first time I told Noemi the truth” he continued “it almost destroyed our relationship. I learned then that its one thing for you to feel Dada and I are the most special sims in the nation, but its something else entirely for me to think that about myself. That’s a problem, no matter if its true or not.”

“I don’t want Skye to have to deal with that, especially since as far as I can tell it won’t change anything. By your count I’m the ninth heir of this family but the first one to have been raised with the knowledge of it. It didn’t seem to make those other heirs any less special just because they didn’t know.”

By the end of Luigi’s passionate monologue Jack had deflated to a shadow of his already translucent self. He sat in silence for a while, clearly processing what his son had said and deciding what to say in return.

At last, Jack cleared his spectral throat “I hear you, and I won’t tell you how you raise your boy, but will you listen to why I chose to raise you the way I did? I promise, I’m not trying to change your mind. I just really want to know that you understand my decisions, now that you’re a father yourself.”

Luigi nodded for Jack to continue. In his experience his papa had always tried to do the right thing, and he was willing to listen and try to understand what had made him believe teaching Luigi this fact about his life, that had often only made it harder, had been the right thing to do.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (8/30/2024) Episode: Preparing To Wed

Luigi woke up the day of his wedding still pondering what to tell his son about the watcher, but seeing Noemi refocused his priorities.

He gave his girl a big hug and a kiss good morning. “It’s taken us a long time to get here, but I’m so excited to finally make this thing official.”

“Honey” she replied laughing “I think, wedding rings or not, we’ve been “official” for awhile now.” She gave him a serious look. “I thought I’d feel jitters worse than before my first wedding, having had it fall apart on me once already, but I’ve been more and more excited to marry you every day.”

Her man gave her one last tender kiss and headed off to cook up some breakfast while she gave Skye a bath. “You are going to smell so nice for your sleepover with Auntie Isra and Uncle Rhys.” she told him. “E-Lee! E-Lee!” he cheerfully chanted, clearly looking forward to seeing his playmate, Elyse.

Once everyone was clean and fed it was time to deliver all the non wedding participants to their various temporary homes, as Noemi and Luigi would be heading off on their honeymoon immediately after the ceremony.

Their first stop was just down the beach to deliver Skye and Blossom to Isra and Rhys. Beau and Breanne had planned to host Blossom so she could visit her kitten, but Beau’s delivery of their new daughter Betty hadn’t gone as smoothly as that of his firstborn. He was still recovering from some post surgical complications, and Breanne bowed out of the added responsibility of another cat on top of a newborn, toddler, and ailing husband.

“Thank you, again, for taking both of them” Noemi told the pair as Luigi got everyone settled “Its our pleasure” Isra replied “I’m sure Elyse will love having a cat and especially a friend her own age around. She gets so frustrated that the twins are still too small to really play games with her.”

The couples next stop required donning their cold weather gear. Arriving in Galloping Gulch Amaya launched herself at the bride-to-be “🎶Someone’s Getting Married🎶” she sang “and I get to be in the wedding! You sure you can deal with that hot stuff?”

“All good” Luigi called back from the porch, rolling his eyes as he gave her husband a briefing about all of Roach’s preferences and fears. He was sure Noemi was likewise filling Amaya in on the needs of her “four-legged baby”, but he’d actually come to care for his little “mascot” quite a bit and wanted to ensure he would be well taken care of and happy until they returned.

With all their babies settled, the pair returned to the beach, arriving early to ensure their waterfront venue was perfectly prepared.

A couple special guests were there to greet them when they arrived. Neither Jack nor Peachy were going to miss their boy's big day and both were equally excited to be a part of the “prep crew”.

While Noemi filled Peachy in on Skye’s latest culinary explorations Luigi practically bowled his Papa over in his excitement to see him and tie the knot. “It’s really happening!” he cried, earning himself a fatherly grin. “Congratulations! Noemi’s a great gal, and it’s obvious you two are very happy.”

Once everyone had a chance to say hello Noemi headed over to the ceremony space to check that everything was setup correctly.

Luigi, who after much discussion had gotten his fiancée’s permission to film the whole thing, fired up Yoshi and headed down to a nearby fishing hole with his dads. They were collecting a fresh, locally sourced (and Luigi diet approved), seafood feast for dinner.

Luigi was all smiles as he helped fish up their meal. The general distaste he’d developed in young adulthood for getting up close and personal to the slimy denizens of the sea barely detracted from the joy he felt getting to spend quality time with his dada and papa once again.

When they'd decided they had enough fish to feed their guests it was time to turn their catch into something delicious.

Jack and Peachy met up with Anderson, who was providing the vegetable side dishes, inside the kitchen pavilion to get started on their contributions, while Luigi got his own dish started on the firepit before joining the others to whip up a fresh batch of Kava. 

His wedding day had barely begun and already Luigi was feeling on top of the world.

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Today's (11/12/2024) Episode: Prank Day Potluck

“This potluck is such a delight” Luigi lied, wishing he had stuck to the plates he had prepared himself earlier. He didn’t want to hurt his friend’s feelings, especially when he knew the issue was less their dishes and more his very high culinary expectations.

Skye was glad no one was asking him about his meal. The bangers and mash Isra had made had looked quite tasty, but something about the combination of greasy sausage and fluffy potato really weren’t doing his tummy any favors.

Once everyone was finished eating, they broke into small groups to catch up with each other and enjoy some fun in the sun.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better.” Skye told Bruce as he and Elyse sat with the other kids, “My dad said you got hurt pretty bad at the trials.”

“Tales of my downfall were greatly exaggerated” the teen quickly replied. Elyse, who shared classes with Bruce at Copperdale and had seen him hobbling around after he’d been cleared by his doctor to return rolled her eyes but didn’t comment.

“Anyway” Bruce continued “the trials were stupid, but I heard a wild story there. Did you know that stargazing can get you abducted? This guy I met heard it from a guy whose cousin works at the science lab.” Skye listened, rapt. Who knew using a telescope could be so dangerous!?

“I can’t believe Skye is almost a teenager!” Noemi lamented to her girlfriends “I swear some days it seems like only yesterday I was waddling around the university, feeling as big as a house, wishing the desks were bigger and my classes were closer together!”

Breanne laughed. “The teen years will fly by too, believe me. It seems like only yesterday my oldest girl Bailey was dating the captain of the chess team, and now she’s married and expecting her second little one.” “Congratulations!” the others chorused.

“So, do you want to host Skye’s birthday party at our place again?” Isra asked. “Thanks” Noemi replied “but Luigi and I are planning to take him on one last trip with just the three of us. Once he ages up, I’m not sure when we’ll get to see him again without making an appointment with Elyse first.” Isra chuckled “So you say, yet I seem to recall both our kids spent all morning at your house!”

“Sheesh, someone needs to lay off the garlic noodles!” Beau complained, holding his nose while waving his hand in Luigi’s direction.

“What!? That wasn’t me!” Luigi protested before his friend started laughing uproariously “Gotcha!” “Argh, I should have known! I’ll get you back for that, just you wait” Luigi told him as the men enjoyed a game of cards.

“Hey, when will you have that Cyberworld item from the Expansion Pack ready for us try out?” Rhys asked, tactfully changing the subject. “I can’t wait to battle myself in the game!” Beau agreed, adding with a grin: “and I can’t wait to have another way to kick both your butts! Seriously man, let’s test it!”

“Soon” Luigi promised “we’re still working out some kinks in the interface. Creating a virtual world within a virtual world turned out to be significantly more difficult than it seemed; but I just know its going to be awesome when we get it right.”

“Thanks for agreeing to help with the motion capture and voice your NPCs.” he continued, before turning back to Beau “I think the new candle making hobby is going to go over well too. I don’t know how Breanne does it all day, my fingers were sore for hours after my visit!”

“My wife is a pro” Beau smiled proudly “only noobs like your highness get singed every 5 minutes!” he laughed “Honestly though, thank you for thinking of her. She was thrilled to participate and having the official hobby lot in the game be modeled after her shop was very flattering.”

After a few more hours talking, pranking, and enjoying some snorkeling and deep-sea diving in the waters surrounding the bungalow Luigi and his family said their goodbyes and headed home, happy to have spent a wonderful day enjoying one of their favorite holidays with some of their favorite sims.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/11/2024) Episode: Cantina Memories

After a hard day’s “espionage” the newlyweds found their way to the theme park’s Cantina for a drink in memory of Luigi’s dearly departed uncle.

“Its so weird being back here as a guest” Luigi said as he led Noemi into the familiar establishment. “I wonder if anyone I worked with is still around.”

“Luigi!” a friendly voice answered his question. Ralla came around from behind the bar, wearing a familiar cantina uniform. “How long has it been?” He couldn’t help but return a rueful smile – of course they’d run into his old flame.

“Honey” he joked, “Meet your new best friend,” chuckling at the confusion this comment prompted on the faces of both ladies in question.

“It’s a long story” he continued as the bartender began mixing them some drinks. “Noemi, you remember I told you about Ralla? My favorite co-worker from back in the day. Ralla, Noemi and I are here celebrating…” he started, but got no further.

“Your Honeymoon!” she smiled, laughing at his surprised gasp as she pushed the first drink towards Noemi. “It’s not Force Vision, your Uncle Paul kept me up to date on your exploits and prepared a list of drinks that should meet with the approval of your lovely lady… and your doctors.”

At the look of grief that passed over his face, she nodded. “He predicted that the last time he was here. I guess his timing was spot on, then. He was a regular, and a friend who will be missed.” She started mixing another cocktail. “How does a skinny jet juice with a splash of green milk sound to you, Lu?”

“Sounds like old times!” he replied. “You know how much I like that combo. I can’t regret my new career and family, but I sure do miss the taps here.”

“Yeah, good luck finding these trademarked ingredients in any normal bar” she said, winking at Noemi. “Did he tell you about the one night we had nothing but virgin drinks to dispense because the previous shift quit and took almost all the spirits with them on the way out?”

Noemi smiled shyly. “Lu’s told me a few stories of the fun times you guys had during his internship, but he didn’t mention that one.” She was secretly feeling left out by all the talk of past events she hadn’t shared but was doing her best not to be jealous.

Her cloudy drink and some more small talk eventually made her a little more comfortable. When the bar began to get busy, she and Luigi stood up and left a tip for his old friend. Ralla waved at them as the pair headed out: “It was great seeing you – make sure to come see me again before you go!”

Walking hand in hand through the cool night, Noemi smelled something tasty, and the pair stopped to order a Ronto wrap for dinner.

“OK, tell me who Ralla was to you again?” she asked as they found a table. “She seemed to be trying to emphasize your time working together, but it felt like maybe you two were more than friends? It's been such a long time since we’ve talked about other relationships from our past.”

“Yes, we dated briefly.” he confirmed. “I liked her, but she and I really weren’t on the same wavelength, nothing like me and you.” he reached out and gave her hand a gentle squeeze, smiling softly.

“Wavelength? Is that what the kids are calling it these days?” Noemi grinned. “My friend Kenzie told me you’d be a perfect distraction from my “situation” with Kiana when she saw me checking you out that time Professor Silva invited us to observe the team in action. She practically dragged me to your station and bet me 10 simoleons I wouldn’t have the courage to talk to you. If you hadn’t looked so cute mansplaining computers to the robotics team she might have won!”

“Remind me to buy that girl something nice from the giftshop” Luigi replied “I owe her big time. Now if you’re done eating, I’m ready to take you back to the hotel and remind you just how compatible we are.”

“That sounds perfect” she said, rising to follow him to The Dwelling, giving his cheek a big pinch just as they passed a patrol.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/5/2024) Episode: Dinner and Dancing

At the reception Luigi kept his drone recording as everyone gathered to enjoy the seafood feast he’d helped prepare earlier that afternoon.

Bonnie, who was flying solo as usual, was seated across from Noemi. Now that she understood the bride’s own social struggles, she was willing to admit “Leroy’s “demanding job” isn’t really the reason he never comes to these things. He’s socially awkward, and crowds make him anxious.” 

“I totally get it.” Noemi sympathized, “I’ve come to accept this zoo…” she waved to indicate the crowded table “as “part of the package” with Lu’s close knit family, but its awesome you’re willing to let Leroy enjoy his solitude.” She leaned in closer. “I’m a little jealous, I wish I was home right now too.”

Lu himself was happily telling Grandpa Don “PrimSim gave us a bonus for our little Harvestfest collab, no doubt due to your expert lead…”

 Don held up a hand to stop Luigi from making the offer he knew was coming “That’s great! You can consider it an extra wedding present.”

In lieu of dessert champagne was poured and both sims of honor rose to give a toast.

Amaya went first “At the last wedding Luigi and I attended I told him I never wanted to see him again. Then I stumbled into friendship with his pretty momma as we were both learning to be better mommas to our incoming bundles of joy. Ain’t life strange? You did good hot stuff – but if you let my girl down you best believe I’ll be the one kicking your butt!”

Denton followed up with “Luigi and I got off to a bit of a rough start…” “To be fair,” Luigi hollered back to the crowds delight, “we WERE toddlers…”

“… but we grew up to have a lot in common.” his cousin continued with a smile. “Noemi, much as we both love him, it’s clear that he doesn’t quite deserve you. We’re all so very glad you eventually agreed to marry him anyway!” Luigi nodded happily, leaning over to give his wife a quick kiss.

Bellies full and hearts light everyone made their way to the dance floor after dinner.

For their first dance the newlyweds had picked an upbeat funky tune. The pair shimmied onto the floor and proceeded to boogie down, performing an adorable duet to the quirky retro love song they both felt perfectly captured the essence of their story and their love for one another.

🎶For so long, You and me been findin' each other for so long… I want you layin' in the love I have to bring, I'd do anything to be your everything🎶

When their song finished the pair invited everyone to join them and “get this dance party started!”.

Luigi of course was in his element, but Noemi surprised herself by how much fun she was having.

Surrounded by the large crowd of family and friends she’d come to know so well, on one of the happiest days of her life, she felt nothing but joy as she swayed in time to the music.

All good things must come to an end, and as Luigi and Noemi’s party ended, he was approached by Professor Silva.

“Care to autograph this for me? I’d love to hang it on the “wall of fame” in my office”. His old advisor handed over a headshot from Luigi’s days as co-captain of Foxbury’s E-Sports team. As Luigi worked, he added “I was sorry to hear about your Carpel Tunnel, but glad you’re taking it seriously.”

Luigi, remembering that his coach’s own stress injury had kept him from going pro, nodded. “Thanks. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s given me a chance to put those leadership skills you taught me to good use.” He handed back the picture and promised to check up on the professor’s current team soon.

Once their guests had all departed Luigi snuggled Noemi close “So, wife of mine… man I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of saying that… I know that both of us are “seldom sleepy” these days. You up to have a little more fun before bed?”

“Absolutely” she replied “After all, it’s a rare treat not to have anyone but ourselves to worry about. Carpe Diem!”

Luigi laughed “well OK then, let’s go!”

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NSB (Straud Legacy) Gen 9 Ep 94: Getting to Know You

The day of her 2nd trimester appointment, Luigi and Noemi began doing the “homework” suggested at their therapy session. Beau was covering for him at practice as they headed to Magnolia Promenade after class to visit the maternity shop near the hospital.

It was an expansion of the paternity boutique Steven and Peachy had sworn by during their pregnancies. A big-name maternity retailer had opened a branch of their store next door so that sims of all genders and shapes could find comfortable clothing for pregnancy in a little conjoined mini-mall.

Luigi was doing his best to win smiles from his glum girlfriend, even going so far as to pull a couple items from the paternity section to “model” over a “baby bump” pillow that the shop had available for sims to get a sense of how something would fit at a later stage of gestation.

In the end it was mission accomplished! Noemi left the store in a much better of frame of mind than she’d entered it, wearing a comfortable and stylish new maternity ensemble that fit (and looked!) much better than Luigi’s old t-shirt and sweatpants had.

Their next stop was a nearby baby supply emporium. They didn’t plan to setup the nursery until after graduation, when they moved to the island, but they could still follow Dr. Velasquez’s advice by picking out some things and making plans.

They did manage to select one small toy for the baby before they left for Noemi’s prenatal appointment.

She was shocked when Luigi was drawn to blue options instead of his usual green, but he just shrugged. To date each heir in his family had loved a unique color; and just as dada Peachy had been stuck on “green themed” name ideas, he figured he was being guided towards the right hue for his future little one.

Luigi was feeling unsettled as they arrived at the hospital. Shopping for the baby had made his child feel more “real”, but he had quickly realized that wasn’t necessarily a good thing. He wanted to want his child, but thinking about the future with a little one in it was still a struggle for him.

Noemi’s midwives worked with a medical OB, and this visit she was scheduled with him for some bloodwork. After that was finished the exam proceeded as usual, with a listen to the babies' nice strong heartbeat and some measurements to ensure their growth was on target. Everything seemed to be progressing well and Noemi was instructed to come back one final time once she entered her third trimester.

When the check-up was done their provider sent them down the hall for the ultrasound that would give them their first glimpse at the baby.

Luigi lagged a little bit behind as they headed in, texting Denton as an excuse to keep his head down. His anxiety was through the roof – if looking at cribs and diapers had been hard how was he going to feel seeing his son or daughter “in living color”!?

The tech introduced themselves, instructed Noemi to lie back on the table, and in no time their child was visible on the screen. Noemi asked right away if they could tell the babies sex, and with a quick adjustment of the wand the technician confirmed they were having a boy.

Luigi was reeling as Noemi got redressed, but pasted on a smile that he hoped came close to matching her ecstatic grin as he helped her to her feet.

When she told him “come say hello to your son” Luigi hesitated for only a moment before leaning down and directing a shy wave towards Noemi’s belly along with a quick “nice to meet you”.

He was glad to let Noemi babble on as they headed towards the exit. He had known what the pregnancy test, the therapy, and Noemi’s growing belly meant, but seeing his little boy on the monitor had brought the weight of reality crashing down in a whole new way that he was still trying to process.

Rather than following her into the teleporter station that would take them home Luigi hung back, claiming that he wanted to grab some finger food for dinner so they could both dive right into their homework without distraction.

Noemi, quite tired out from the long day, didn’t argue, giving him a kiss and requesting “something from that Mediterranean place – your baby wants some hummus!” before continuing on her way.

The shiny jewelry on display in the stall Luigi headed towards once she teleported out of sight declared that it didn’t sell Mediterranean food.

Seeing his son had unsettled him, but it had also made him even more sure that he wanted to ask his girlfriend to become his wife.

He didn’t doubt they would have gotten there without a baby in the mix, he’d loved her for ages, but he needed her to know he was in this for the long haul, and what better way to show his devotion than asking her to spend the rest of her life with him?

It was time to take the next step in their relationship, if she was willing, and unlike parenthood it was a journey he was ready and eager to begin.

Yes, of course they are having a boy 🤭, and no, I didn’t do anything to influence this outcome (but I’m not mad about it)!

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Not So Berry (Straud Legacy) - Let's Play!

The Story of a Family...

My main sims focus is my little legacy family.  I post new episodes Mon - Fri.  

All previous episodes can be found here

Today’s Episode: Friends and More

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (10/3/2024) Episode: Last Minute Preparations

After his successful promotional event, Luigi dropped Skye off at home and checked in on his recovering spouse.

“A day of rest was just what the doctor ordered” Noemi told him, “tomorrow I think I’ll be right as rain and ready to celebrate.”

She settled down in Skye’s bedroom, smiling as he rambled on excitedly about “Mr. Winter” coming to visit.

When Luigi finally got home, he noticed that the spouse who got up to greet him was a bit stiff (and smelly) from her long convalescence.

“Why don’t you go run yourself a soothing bath” he diplomatically suggested, “I’ll get our little monster all settled down for the night.”

The sweet sounds of her boys reading their favorite bedtime stories and talking about the presents to come helped her almost float away on a cloud of steamy bubbles. Noemi stretched achy muscles in the tub and relaxed fully for what felt like the first time in days.

Fully refreshed and wrapped in a nice dry robe, Noemi found her baby fast asleep, and his father quietly straightening up the room.

“He went down surprisingly easily” he said, pulling her into a warm embrace. “Mmmm, you smell good enough to eat.”

His hot breath stirred desires that her lingering illness had suppressed. “Is that a promise, or just something you tell all the pretty girls?” she asked as she pulled him in for a hungry kiss. “Well, I have good news for you mister: I’m ready for an early Winterfest present, if you think you can deliver.”

He was ever her obedient servant in that regard, but clearly could have used a stretch or a relaxing bath himself first.

Right after he finished taking his own turn he leapt from their bed with a cry of “Cramp, cramp, cramp!!” lurching comically around as he tried to walk it off. He took Noemi’s laughter as a personal challenge and “gave her something to laugh about” with a spirited one-sided tickle war.

“Stop, stop, I surrender!” Noemi giggled. “Honestly, thank you, that was just what I needed” she continued with a happy sigh. “Sadly, we now have a lot of work to do if we want to give our baby that Happy Winterfest he’s no doubt dreaming of as we speak!”

Their Winterfest tree was sitting, unadorned, in the corner of the living room, where it had waited in vain for them to feel up to decorating it properly.

“After we get this up, we need to take a quick trip out. We don’t even have his present…” Luigi turned back towards his wife, stopping mid sentence when he saw her reeling on her feet. 

“I’m OK, just a little dizzy” she replied, holding her head as if to stop it spinning by force. “Let’s do this”.

“How about you sit down before you fall down.” Luigi replied, emphatically settling her onto the sofa. “I’ll get started on this tree, and you gather strength and ideas to go shopping with me for his present later.” Labor thus fairly divided, he gazed intently at his blank green canvas.

The house was quiet as Noemi dozed and Luigi busied himself getting their Winterfest tree into tip top shape. “I’m glad we decided to go with Gold and White decorations” he murmured to himself when he finished: “Noemi was right, green on green would have been too much, even for me!”

“So, what do you think hon?” he started to ask, turning back towards the couch “I think I did good, if I do say so myself…”

His voice died away again when he saw his wife was sound asleep “Well, I guess I’m going shopping on my own” Luigi murmured, writing her a quick note to let her know where he’d gone.

Leaning down, he planted a soft kiss on her cheek before spinning into his winter wear and heading out into the night to find something that would bring magical Winterfest joy to their boy’s face the following morning.

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