Chapter 0.17 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 1.1

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

(A/N: Guys, I did it. I managed to get myself through the whole generation of posts! AND I kept to the story the whole time! What a huge accomplishment. On other notes, Today marks the halfway point for the month, and I’m still getting out a post a day! Another accomplishment. So today is definitely a good day! Now.. on to the last post of Generation Zero.)

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Everyone got up this excited this morning. Why? Because it’s Winterfest! So we all sat down to breakfast together, thrilled that this year was almost over, and that today was present day!

After breakfast, we went out, got the tree, and all worked to decorate it. We didn’t really have a great place to put it anymore, because no way was I moving the fish tank, but we made the tree fit anyway.

Of note: Vaea is still sick. And I don’t feel great, either. But at least it hasn’t traveled to the kids. Being sick on a holiday is awful. We managed to get the tree all decorated, and Vaea took a quick nap, which helped him feel a bit better.

After Vaea’s nap, we all opened presents. No sense in waiting for Father Winter, he would just bring more presents.. so we opened our family presents early. Everyone was suitably happy with their gifts, and went off to play with their new toys. I, however, had a grand meal to make in the fire pit, and got busy setting that up. I then took a short nap to help with being sick, and woke up in time for dinner.

We had a fabulous Island Veggie feast, made with fresh veggies from the garden, and had plenty left over so I wouldn’t have to cook for the rest of the day.

Father Winter brought everyone gifts, as usual.. and we all took our turn. Some gifts were better than others, but it was still nice to get presents. (Isn’t it always nice to get presents?!)

Part of my present was apparently a broken tub. Again. So I finished off Winter fest with a night of fixing it.

The next day, Tevin showed up to visit, full of stories about his growing family. We interrupted lunch to talk to him, and weren’t sorry about it one bit. Vaea and I reveled in tales of our grandson Kyler’s antics, and cooed over the pictures of him on Tevin’s phone opening up his presents from the day before. We brought out the presents we had saved for Tevin and his family, and he packed them away to take home. All in all, it was a fantastic visit.

With most of the chores done, Vaea and I had a chance to enjoy the morning doing our own things. Vaea chose to play with the lump of clay.. while I went for a swim in the ocean.

Kaleb came home from school in a strange mood, pretending he was a dolphin, so I sent him out to the sea to play with the real ones. It was funny… although Corina did not seem amused.

I let her make dinner, since she’ll be out on her own before long and will need to know how.. and she did a great job.

I, of course, had other things to do than cook. The fridge was broken again, so I fixed it while Corina cooked. It took far less time this time that it has taken in the past, luckily, and I was done by the time dinner was ready.

We had another random visitor today.. she just wandered off the street and took a nap in Corina’s bed. We quickly chased her away, because the whole incident left all of us feeling a bit creeped out.

Kaleb is so good at doing his homework. He never has to be asked. Even though he already has his “A”, he continues to work hard to better himself.

Tevin visited again for a while, and I once again enjoyed the stories and pictures of my grandson. They were planning to bring him to visit next week when it warmed up (so Kyler wouldn’t have to sit on the cold bus from the city for hours), and I was so excited.

On New Year’s Day, we toasted in the new year… and finally sat Corina down to talk about what was expected of her as she would be the one to carry on my legacy. She listened carefully, but I can’t say she seemed horribly pleased that she would be the one to start from scratch in a new place, just like I did.

Vaea and Corina sat up most the night enjoying drinks and chatting, however, so by the end of the night she seemed to have come to terms with her “inheritance” – such as it was.

A young man by the name of Loario stopped by from the village the next day, and Corina seemed immediately drawn to him. I can’t say as I blamed her, either, because he was definitely nice to look at. (Hey, I can look!)

They spent the afternoon watching the springtime clouds go by and talking. I didn’t get close enough to hear the conversation, for obvious reasons. Eavesdropping on your nearly grown daughter is just “not cool”.

Corina practiced making dinner again, and made a very nice salad. It was a big day, tomorrow, after all, with it being the twins’ birthday.

The big event passed almost un-noticed, in the rush to get Corina’s things all packed up. As part of her inheritance, I provided the money for her to buy her own land in Sulani, as well as enough for a shopping spree for new clothes. It was bittersweet watching her go, however, just as it had been with Tevin. Now only Kaleb would be staying with us, and from what he said, he had big plans with his girlfriend Rarahu. I only hoped that included more grandkids! Before I knew it, she was gone, off to her new home.

I wiped away the tears of joy, and wandered out to the ocean for some alone time. Thing had certainly turned out well for me, considering the start I had had. Three amazing kids, a safe and cozy home.. and I had found out mermaids were not only real – I had become one. Being a part of the local ocean life had been so rewarding. But now things were changing, and I couldn’t wait to see how Corina would face the world on her own.

---

Post makeover shot of Corina:

Bonus Outtake:

No, Vlad.. Just no. Vampires are not welcome here!

See you all in the next generation!!

Chapter 0.17 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 1.1

Chapter 0.16 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.18

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

---

Corina’s mood did not “blow over” like I’d hoped. In fact, she woke up in a worse mood… and before anyone could say anything, she was out the door in athletic gear.

Apparently, she’s determined that the few extra pounds she carries need to go away, and she’s taken up jogging to make it happen. I commend her on her determination, even though I think she’s gorgeous just the way she is.

Then, she came home, and took out her rage on the poor stuffed animal. I guess it’s better than other options.. but still.

At this point, Vaea stepped in. Apparently he was better at being diplomatic than I was, because he calmed her down, and helped her remember that she was amazing just as she is. I think she’s still determined to lose some weight, though, which I applaud, but at least she’s over hating herself for it – for now.

Now that she’s calmed down, I suggested she do something creative.. and she immediately decided the Llama needed to go.

I’m not sure what she built, but it is certainly impressive! (A/N: never seen THAT one before!)

Then, she sat down and worked on her homework. She claimed she didn’t need help, though, so Vaea and I wisely left her alone.

I thanked him profusely for diffusing the situation, and he blew the compliment off like he usually does.. but I could tell he was secretly pleased with himself.

After some time playing on the swings, it was (yet again) time to do the laundry. While I was working on it, however, we had a guest show up.

It was Manuia, and his first action was to take out the trash. I’m telling you, this boy is a keeper! I wasn’t about to tell Corina that, however, so I kept myself busy with the wash.

They had a lively discussion, mostly complaining about the puddles left over from the wash (that I eventually cleaned up). I tried very hard not to eavesdrop, but it’s tough in such a small house and I got drawn into the conversation more than once – to Corina’s dismay, I’m sure. Shortly after, the two left to do .. who knows what – teenage stuff (probably hanging out on the swingset!) – and I got to work cleaning up puddles.

Then I chatted with the fish, who were thrilled with their new home, especially the Leopard Shark. I fed them, and watched them all play for a while, wondering what the kids were doing, but not nosy enough to peek out a window to see. Corina would have killed me if she caught me!

Vaea comforted me, saying he saw the two of them heading to the ocean, and gave me a big hug – which is always welcome.

Through it all, Kaleb’s music rang through the small hut, enhancing the island feel with his chords. He really was getting pretty good at it, and was, rightly, proud of himself.

Vaea and I had an early dinner together, talking about the kids. We had such a wonderful family, it’s hard not to brag on them to each other.

Corina came home shortly after we finished dinner, and Kaleb emerged from his room, so we had a bit of family time before bed. I was, of course, still working on housework – things were never completely done around here! – but it was a pleasant evening all around.

The next day, I had the best surprise ever. Tevin came over with a picture…

Of my new grandson, Kyler! The adoption paperwork had finally come through, and I was now a grandmother! Tevin even let me keep the picture, and I quickly hung it up on the wall. He assured me they had plenty of copies of the picture, and that Kyler was healthy and happy. I worried that he would grow up in the city, but Tevin assured me that they would come visit before long.

We sat and talked about Kyler for what seemed like hours, and eventually, I convinced him he needed to visit the ocean again.

So, the two of us went out and swam in the sea for a while. Echo came over to visit with us, glad to see Tevin again, too. However, the afternoon couldn’t last forever, and Tevin had an active toddler at home waiting on him, so he gave me a big hug and headed back on the bus to Everett and his city home. The whole visit was definitely the highlight of my week!

When I got home, I discovered that Vaea had come down with some sort of sickness, and I quickly administered orange juice and sent him to bed for a nap.

Corina and I left him alone to rest, and went outside for a while on the swingset. She finally let me in on the fact that Manuia was still seeming to play hard to get, and she bemoaned her poor love life. Meanwhile, Kaleb was out with his girlfriend.. which wasn’t helping Corina’s mood any. I assured her that she was gorgeous, and all things would come, eventually, but I’m not entirely sure she believed me.

By the next morning, it was obvious I had come down with the same thing Vaea had.. and it was my turn for a nap and Orange Juice. I sincerely hoped neither of us would get worse, because the holidays were coming up.. and being sick on the holidays is NOBODY’s idea of a good time. Luckily, the twins were more than willing to step in and help with the housework while Vaea and I were “down for the count”, so we didn’t have to worry about the house becoming any more of a disaster zone while we were sick.

Chapter 0.16 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.18

Chapter 0.15 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.17

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

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Kaleb is testing fate.. and my patience… by swimming in a thunderstorm. But it made for a gorgeous picture. (Don’t worry, he gets home safe and in time for school.)

The thunderstorm, however, makes laundry impossible.. and very soggy. Yes, I could have cleared the skies.. but a storm is good for the land sometimes. Plants need water to grow and all that.

Look who came to visit!! We had just gotten the twins off to school when there was a knock at the door.

I was so excited to see Tevin – and thoroughly glad that he was making good on his promise to visit often. We talked for more than an hour about Everett, the excitement of the city, and the fact that he and Everett were already talking about adopting! No plans were in place yet, but it sounds like there will be a grand-baby in my near future!

After Tevin left, it was back to household chores. Once again, something needed fixing. At least it was a quick fix, because I’ve gotten pretty good at this handiness thing.

Once the toilet was fixed, the sun had come out, and Vaea and I immediately headed for the sea. We may be old, but with Mastered Fitness skills for both of us, we don’t have to worry about over-exerting ourselves. It was a beautiful day for swimming, too. Crystal clear water, fish all around, and the sun warming our fins.

When we finally got home, Corina was hanging out on the swings with her new friend, Manuia.

… And poor Kaleb had come home from school in a horrible mood. He was busy in the bathroom talking himself down when we got home. I wisely left him alone.

After her friend left, Corina volunteered to try to fix the tub. As she said, she was going to have to learn sometime! She’s right, of course, so I helped her figure it out then left her to fix it on her own.

Kaleb and Vaea worked late into the night to finish Kaleb’s school project since it had taken Kaleb so long to calm down after school. But that was okay, because tomorrow is a holiday… so no school to wake up early for!

As is tradition, the gnomes arrived bright and early the next morning, and Vaea was the first to try out his luck.

Corina wasn’t as lucky, but somehow, she was still happy about it. Sometimes I wonder about that girl.

I failed, too… and immediately started making plans to sell the destructive little beasties at market before they could break anything ELSE in the house.

Before I could do that, however, Kaleb had to try his luck.

He was in such a good mood afterwards that he volunteered to do the laundry! I certainly wasn’t going to complain!

Someone found the lump of clay we’ve had forever. (Since last Winterfest, I believe…) They made it into this playful Llama and left it on the table for all to see. Too cute. I did, however, move it off the dinner table to the counter, but I left it intact. It’s good to see someone working on their creativity!

Kaleb washed the laundry, but forgot to put it on the line, so I stepped in to help. Chores can sometimes be a team effort.

The next day, both teens arrived home with GREAT news! They were both carrying “A”s at school now! My kids have all done very well in school with my encouragement, which is so nice considering how badly *I* did in school.

They immediately went outside to play, despite the fact that it was a bit overcast. The lure of that swing set is strong!

Before long, however, Kaleb noticed a familiar face across the street…. Rarahu had grown up. And what a beautiful young lady she was. Kaleb seemed completely taken by her, and ran all the way over there to renew their acquaintance.

Manuia and Corina, however, are still just friends.. despite my wishes to the contrary. (Not that I’ve said anything to Corina.. obviously it’s her choice! .. But.. darn.. I want grandbabies!)

Watching Corina and Manuia watching the clouds almost missed me a photo opportunity as Kaleb moved in for the first kiss. Way to go, Kaleb!

Kids grow up so fast. Later, while doing their homework, Kaleb was so proud of himself he could hardly stand it.. and Corina just sulked and muttered about maybe her weight being the cause of Manuia not liking her “like that”. I assured her that couldn’t be it, because she wasn’t very overweight.. but apparently that didn’t help the situation any.. and she stomped off to her room without finishing her homework. Parenting can be hard work. I left her be, sensing that anything I said was likely to make it worse.

Oh well. Tomorrow is another day, and in all likelihood, the whole situation will just blow over with some rest.

Chapter 0.15 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.17

Chapter 0.14 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.16

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

(A/N: I know I took a liberty in the way I moved Tevin out, but I felt it fit with the story better than him just getting kicked out of the house on his Young Adult birthday. Also – on the birthday note.. this challenge has been particularly tough because I have to wait until they age up on their own with their little “sad” moodlet. (Can’t bake cakes off the grid.) However, I did figure out a work-a-round for those on an off-the-grid challenge. Visit a restaurant and use the cake they provide there. In fact, next generation I transform one of the Sulani beaches into a restaurant for my mermaid sims. But that’s later, so it doesn’t help me at all this generation, and with the rule I made for no traveling away from the islands.. I couldn’t go to a restaurant in another town. Which made things difficult. But for now, it’s back to the story!)

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My family just loves the sea – for obvious reasons. We spend as much time there as possible – especially on beautiful sunny days like today.

Not sure where they’re off to, but the picture turned out adorable anyway. Corina really has grown up into a beautiful young woman!

Everett came over again, and Tevin immediately asked him out on a date. I have to say I was totally cheering them on! It’s so nice to see Tevin interacting with someone outside of the family.

Tevin took Everett out to the local bar, and surprised him with a rose. How romantic! I never knew Tevin had that side of him!

First kiss! They really make an adorable couple.

Everett is completely into being romanced, and reciprocates with a kiss of his own, although he’s a little bit more on the shy side.

My baby got married! I know it was fast, but they were very sure.. and Tevin couldn’t wait to get out and start his own life like I did as a teenager. I’m proud of him and support his decision, but it doesn’t make letting go any easier.

The whole family helped Tevin move (even though he didn’t have a whole lot to move WITH.. it’s the thought that counts).. and Everett’s apartment in the city (he lives where his parents used to) was the perfect place for them to start out. I made doubly sure that he would come back and visit, because, as a mom, I worry about his fins drying up without the ocean!

With Tevin moving out, I surprised the twins with bedroom makeovers, thinking it was past time they had their own rooms. We just hadn’t had the space before now.

They were absolutely overjoyed, and congratulated each other on their good fortune. Too cute!

Yes, I finally broke down and sold the dollhouse. I bought us a fish tank instead and put the lone Leopard shark I’d managed to keep safe all his life into it … now he needed friends.

So Vaea and I made a fishing derby out of it and spent the day at the local dock. Lucky for us, mermaids can cast a special lure on the water to make catching rare fish easier, and we hoped for some really pretty ones to add to our tank.

Kaleb and Corina were at the beach, too, but they were far more interested in the water than in fishing. I can’t say as I blame them. Fishing can be boring.

Corina gives her first try at cooking. Somehow, it turned out better than my first attempt did… even though she decided to season the grill before putting anything on. Silly girl.

It was late by the time we’d caught all the fish we wanted for our tank, and other people had come and gone all day, taking full advantage of the mermaid lure.

We definitely had some awesome fish, though, including a Rainbow fish that I caught, an angelfish and parrot fish that Vaea caught, and a couple others. Now our shark had friends for the first time in his life since being gifted to me by Echo.

We then spent the rest of the evening doing household chores together. The kids were still not home from the beach, but I wasn’t worried. Much. I mean, they had school in the morning, but both were very responsible for their ages and they would be home.

Our last task for the evening was bittersweet. Vaea and I retired from our jobs. We wouldn’t make a whole lot for our pension – but we had saved up enough that I was very sure we would be okay without it. This would mean we would have more time for the kids (and each other!)

And yes, the kids did get home in time for bed before school. And we all slept peacefully. WITHOUT monsters! I had almost forgotten what a good night’s sleep felt like!

Overall, it was a crazy weekend. After everyone aged up, Tevin found his true love and moved away.. and now I missed him terribly. With our spotty phone service, I wasn’t at all sure how much we would hear from him – despite his reassurances he would visit as often as possible. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that he visits often!

Chapter 0.14 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.16

Chapter 0.13 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.15

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

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Today started out epically – on the water, of course. What day can be bad when you get a full night’s sleep and then wake up to go play in the ocean?? (That’s a rhetorical question, of course..)

After some ocean play time, Vaea and I head home to work on household chores. As per the usual, it takes most of the day to do the laundry, and I get very little else done.

Other than, of course, making sure lunch is available for the kiddos coming home from school. Tevin is complaining about the mess on the counter (I think). The other kids barely seem to notice.

Well, if you’re going to complain about it, at least go fix it… and he does, bless him!

Vaea’s out busy with his garden in the afternoon. Communing with his plants. Occasionally I catch him talking to them. I wonder if that’s the secret to an awesome garden… talking to them? Pretty sure that’s not a technique I read about, but it seems to work for him!

I decide to make a feast for dinner, and the aromas from the barbecue pit keep everyone’s mouth watering for the two hours it takes to cook. I now know why the islanders choose this pit grill over the more modern ways of cooking – it’s just so tasty!

Dinner ended up being just as good as it smelled (Vaea was at his lifeguard duty), and it was a moment to catch up with the kids. All of them seem to be enjoying school, and they were all talking over each other in their excitement to share what goes on during their day. Tevin, of course, was the quiet one. I try not to mind or worry.. but it’s hard when you love them so much!

After dinner, all the kids pitch in with more housework. There’s always something to be done!

… While I go take a nap.

I wake up to back pain and grey hair. Joy. I knew it was coming, but I’d hoped it wasn’t coming this fast. I still have kids to raise!

… And tubs to fix, apparently.

Vaea ages up not too long after me – and looks very handsome in grey. He’s not too happy about it, but since both of us have mastered fitness, we can expect a few extra days.. hopefully that gives us time to get the kids out of the house and on their own.

Laundry, I’ve found, is even more back-breaking when you’re an elder. But it still needs to be done … every day. I have to confess there are days that I use my power to change the weather outside just so the wash will dry in time to hang a new load up.

Corina seems to have developed a hatred for the poor bear. She’s always practicing arguments against him… and this time she was doing it while poor Kaleb was trying to take a nap. I had to go in an shush her to remind her to be polite to her brother.

And then… it happened. The Bheeda’s son, Everett, stopped by. I remember them from the city, but their son hadn’t been born by the time I left, so I didn’t know him at all, and I’m not sure how he tracked us down to Sulani… but Tevin was the first to meet him at the door. They chatted amiably for a couple hours before Everett had to go, but for the rest of the day Tevin seemed to be wearing a secret little smile.

The twins have been playing practical jokes on each other all day. Must be Prank day again. – Or at least, it is for them. I keep hearing those silly hand buzzers going off, and the sounds of childish giggles follow wherever that sound goes.

… However, perhaps the joke went too far when the dollhouse was the one that suffered. Corina feels bad about it after the fact, but that didn’t stop her from trashing it in the first place. A quick time out solved that.. and left me with something else to repair.

Tevin aged up to Young Adult, and felt very important around the house now. So, that evening, when Everett showed up again… Tevin was the first to welcome him back. In fact, he barely let anyone else get a word in edgewise. They just talked and talked and talked… I was so glad to see him with a new friend that I didn’t even bother interrupting them to call them in for dinner. If they were hungry, they could smell it and come get some.

Before long, the conversation seemed to turn quite flirty- which was another good reason to give those two their space. I kept my fingers crossed for him the whole time.

But I apparently needn’t have worried, because the two of them were getting along famously. And I had other things to attend to.

Like my twins growing up to be teenagers! Corina is just stunning, and has decided to grow her hair out. One of these days soon I’m going to have to sit her down and talk to her about the legacy I’m leaving behind for her and what I “expect” of her as she grows up.. but today wasn’t the day for it.

Kaleb saw his sister age up.. and was already halfway to the water to try his new fins before he even turned into a teenager.

Corina still somehow beat him to the water, though.. and between the two of them, her fins more closely resemble mine.

Kaleb’s are just as beautiful, though. I watched the two of them cavort in the sea for a while, and then decided to join them for a short while.

… Even though I knew what a disaster zone I had left behind at home. Clean-up could come later. After another nap.

Chapter 0.13 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.15

Chapter 0.12 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.14

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

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Sulani is still amazing. I swim whenever I get the chance, even if it’s already dark outside. In fact, sometimes I go swim even if I don’t really have time. It’s a mermaid thing. I find that Vaea and Tevin do the same thing.

I have to say, I’m sick and tired of that monster bugging my babies, though. I tried yelling at it tonight, but it didn’t help anything except my frustration level. Tevin is usually the first to get woken up, but before long, the whole household is up – all because the monster just won’t leave us alone. It’s nearly time for school before I get everyone back into bed, which is terribly frustrating and makes for lots of grumpy sims the next day!

Kaleb came home from school stinky, but insisted on playing with Rarahu anyway. I suggested they do something useful, but Rarahu needed to vent at the moment, so they just chatted for a while instead.

Manuia and Corina seem to be making great friends… and they look so cute together. Maybe I can hope there’s something there in the future? What can I say… grandkids sound like a great thing to me!

Vaea helps out by cleaning the grill – that he was the last one to use. So I guess it was fitting.

Apparently parental help was not necessary for projects today, because friends trump parents every time. I was definitely a little concerned for all the chemicals they were using, though.. I’m glad they chose to set up outside. (And that the weather decided to cooperate!)

Kaleb never did get his shower.. and poor Rarahu doesn’t look all that into the project.

One successful (if not very good) volcano. I’m not sure why she always picks the volcano project to do, but she really seems drawn to it. Manuia looks a little concerned about her zeal for setting the volcano off, though. Perhaps his family lives closer to the actual volcano and knows how destructive it can really be.

I have no idea what Corina is celebrating here, but she felt the need to blow that silly horn INSIDE the house. Trust me, I quickly put an end to that and sent her outside with it.

And the monster’s back. Again. Kaleb is done with the whole thing and manages to nap through it, but the rest of the house is on monster spray duty so that it finally goes away long enough for all of us to get some much-needed rest.

Vaea’s garden is spectacular. He’s done a really good job with it, considering he’s done it all on his own. His expertise from his Manual Labor job means that the plants are pretty near Perfect quality, and the fresh fruit we harvest is amazing.

The laundry is never done. As soon as one load finishes drying, there’s another ready to hang up. Some days, my arms feel like they’re about to fall off from all the washing!

.. What can I say? It’s been one of those days. Between very little sleep and all the household chores.. I need a break to get some “me” time…

… So once again, I’m busy with the kids’ old toys. They try not to laugh, but I can tell they think me playing with their toys is hilarious.

Following his sister’s example, Kaleb finishes up his creative aspiration with some more pictures that I save (but don’t hang on the wall.)

After taking the “me” time, I’m in a much better mood, and Vaea and I sit around the table and tell jokes while the kids play outside with their friends. Well, except for Tevin. I still have yet to see him with a classmate, which continues to worry me.

Hard to be too worried, though, when the sun’s shining and the swingset’s calling my name.

The kids spend some time cloudgazing, and I sneak pictures of them from around the corner. Can never have too many pictures of your kids!

I swear, they’re adorable together. I manage to snap another extra picture, then I decide to head out to the ocean for a while.

I end up playing in with the action figure, though, by the shore. Hopefully nobody noticed!

The monster gave us a reprieve for the night, which allowed Vaea and I to have some time together for a change…

.. and my babies to get some much-needed sleep.

Perhaps the monster will take the hint that we don’t really want him around and stay away for another day or two – but somehow, I doubt it!

Meanwhile, I drift off to sleep with the night sounds from the islands, and the smell of the salt on the air. There’s time enough to worry about the monster tomorrow.

Chapter 0.12 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.14

Chapter 0.11 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.13

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

---

Tevin is getting pretty good at the guitar, and while we don’t all flock to watch him, he seems to enjoy the alone time. Gloomy Sims are like that for some reason.

Speaking of alone time, Kaleb is trying to get started on his aspiration. Yeah, you read that right. He’s just now getting started on it. (Bad Watcher!) Better late than never!

We bought Corina her own violin, and she seems to really enjoy it. She’s a lot further ahead in her aspiration than Kaleb, so the instrument really is helping her out.

As for me, I’m back to fixing the tub. It seems to always be broken.

Tevin is gloomy again, and I took the time to try to figure out why. He said he’d talk to me later about it. So, no idea what that’s about.

Kaleb is such a happy-go-lucky kid. He’s always willing to play with me on the dollhouse. Which is nice, because with my childish nature needs it’s playtime.

Vaea spends some time with Corina after work. While she is taking a break from her violin practice.

Kaleb finally gets some time on the craft table, and finds the glitter to his liking. Why a train needs glitter, I don’t know, but apparently it does.

Kaleb helping out around the house. The kids are so good at that.

My boys – dreaming about rockets and traveling to the stars. Must be a guy thing, because I’ve never once wanted to go to the stars..

Vaea is trying to give me a heart attack by swinging without even holding on.

Corina just has to draw five different pictures to finish her aspiration.

While she’s busy, Kaleb tried out her violin, complaining the whole time that it’s PINK.

I help Corina with her homework while Vaea looks on.

Filthy, but finished with her aspiration. Way to go, Corina! At this point, Vaea and I both had to head to work, and Tevin was off in the ocean.. so I left the twins on their own. I figured they’d be okay for a few hours.

Not long after we left, it seems like half the town arrived randomly. Corina was at first worried about getting in trouble…

But then, she decided this was the perfect opportunity to make some friends. This is Rarahu.

Kaleb just looks overwhelmed. I wonder later if the whole town showed up just because I made a feast in the barbecue pit and smelled up the whole neighborhood. The little tyke with the mohawk is Manuia – we’ll see him later.

Dinner was mostly over by the time Vaea came home. And tried very hard to cut the party short.

Completely overwhelmed, however, he simply went to bed. Thanks for leaving the whole mess for me to clean up! Tevin, however, apparently felt bad for being gone for the evening and had most of it cleaned up by the time I got home.

Then, he “cornered” me for a conversation. He seemed reluctant to talk, but finally, he confessed haltingly that he’s gay. Why he seemed to be worried about that small fact changing my opinion of him, I don’t know… because it certainly did not. We ended up staying up most the night talking, which was nice… although being exhausted by the morning meant that I took a vacation day and stayed home from work to take a nap. I felt bad for Tevin having to go to school, however.. and finally decided he could use a vacation day, too. It had been a long night.

Chapter 0.11 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.13

Chapter 0.10 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.12

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

---

I figured I’d start this update off with a picture of the outside of the house. Since I haven’t bothered to show it off since it got the last addition for the twins. (What can I say, I’ve had other things on my mind!) We have even added a path up to the door – not that we have many visitors.

For a change, there wasn’t laundry hanging on the line, but I’m working on changing that now. There always seems to be dirty clothes in this house!

… Especially socks.

The monster strikes again at night. Kaleb looks completely done with the whole idea, and Corina is just scared. I can’t blame her. If tentacles were coming out from under my bed and making noises, I’d be scared, too. It takes a couple hours to get everyone back in bed after the hullabaloo, so everyone will be tired again tomorrow. Joy.

In the morning, while the kids are at school, I take the time to clean house after work and enjoy the fact that I can’t do laundry. Why? Well, because the previous load is still drying, thanks to the rain.

Vaea and I take some “together” time while the kids are still gone, and it was definitely a welcome diversion.

As expected, everyone is exhausted by the time they get home from school. Poor Tevin is barely walking, and I send him to bed for a nap immediately. Corina needs a shower, as usual. Kaleb, strangely, seems to be in a good mood, however, and I help him with his homework before he, too, heads off for a nap.

After her shower, Corina’s homework turns out to be less complicated, so with my help she breezes right through it, leaving her plenty of time to play before bed.

Vaea is having dinner all by his lonesome while I go play in the ocean for a while… proving that yes, there are leftovers in the fridge.

Which I bring up because Tevin tries to start a fire by attempting to learn to cook on the grill. Luckily, nothing happens.

Except, of course, slightly more than burnt hot dogs. (Which smell up the house for the rest of the day. Have you ever tried to get that smell out of your nose? I assure you, it’s a smell that lingers…)

Amazingly, the next night, everyone sleeps peacefully through. I’m not sure how, but I appreciate the uninterrupted sleep all the same. We all do, actually.

Everyone has a much better day, and is definitely more on the cheerful side after a full night’s sleep. Kaleb and Vaea play with the dollhouse, Corina is on the swingset…

… and some random elder just wanders in to play on our chess set. What?? I asked around the family, and nobody has any idea who she is, and for some reason, nobody feels brave enough to shoo her away.. so we just let her play chess (it’s not like the rest of us ever use that set) and, finally, wander back to wherever she came from.

Tevin is out enjoying the sea for the evening, having (thankfully) given up on jogging as a whole. I did tell him that swimming was better for fitness, but I suppose he had to find that out on his own. Stubborn teens.

The next morning, Vaea surprises me with flowers for Love Day, and invites me out to the local bar for a date.

He really is the best husband. I tell him how much I appreciate him, and his constant loving support in raising these three kids.

I’m sure the rest of the bar patrons were completely tired of our lovey-dovey by the time we left, but we were completely busy, so neither of us noticed.

Later, Vaea showed me a gorgeous, nearly private cove, and we went for a swim. I still can’t get over how beautiful the islands are. There’s always something new that I’m finding, and part of me misses wandering the islands when I first got here without a care in the world.

I certainly don’t regret anything, however, and Love Day (and the date) was a smashing success. I hope Tevin wasn’t too annoyed at having to watch the twins for the afternoon, but at least he didn’t complain about it.

Vaea ends up cooking some grilled fruit for dinner when we get home… however, he ends up burning it. So dinner .. is .. again.. leftovers…

…  and everyone gathers around the table as a family to enjoy it… Except for Kaleb, who decides he’d rather clean the house. Silly kid.

I can’t even begin to say how much I love my family. Kaleb welcomes Vaea home from work, and Corina and I play with the dollhouse. It’s a lovely quiet evening, so I’ll wrap this up and save more drama for next time.

Chapter 0.10 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.12

Chapter 0.9 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.11

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

---

Tevin is determined to raise his fitness skill for school, so he has been out jogging around town every day. I tried to tell him that swimming would work just as well, but maybe he’s shy of his new tail. Who knows.

The kids are hard at work on their Creativity aspirations, while Tevin…. is once again… out jogging. Corina’s artistic skills are definitely expanding, though, and I have to resist the urge to plaster our boring walls with kid’s artwork.

I mastered the cooking skill today. On making a salad. I’ve gotten very good at those. Although I do grill other things, as well, for a little variety in our diet.

Vaea and I celebrated with a swim out in the ocean. Echo was there, again, and I assured him that I hadn’t completely forgotten him – I’ve just been busy. Very busy.

Tevin finally is showing off his fins – they’re spectacular, of course – and he’s got his Fitness skill high enough to get that school grade up. I’m so proud of him for working so hard on his schoolwork. In fact, all the kids are very responsible about their schoolwork. Which is nice, since I was definitely NOT responsible, and I still struggle with keeping my job performance up on account of my tendency to slack off at work. I have so many vacation days, however, that if things get dire on the performance front, I can just start taking vacation… which, to be honest, doesn’t sound like too bad of an idea.

My mermen. Chatting together like it’s the most natural thing in the world to have fins. And it is… natural, that is.

Corina and I playing with the dollhouse. I totally didn’t keep it just for the kids, right? It’s so much fun to be able to play with them instead of just watching them!

Tevin is just such a good boy. He helps out around the house, and is enjoying his new guitar. I worry that he doesn’t seem to have any friends, though, even though I like him being home all the time. He swears he has friends at school – he just doesn’t bring them home.. but I’m not sure I believe him. There’s just something in his face that’s Gloomy these days.

Perhaps it’s because the twins keep waking him up at night to spray the monsters away. Why they gravitate towards having Tevin help them, I don’t know… but help them, he does. Even if it interferes with his sleep. Perhaps it’s because he remembers all the problems he had with monsters not too very long ago.

Having only one bathroom can be such a struggle at times, but without actual plumbing, I can’t see the sense in expanding for another one. We end up waiting in line a lot, though.

Vaea spent some time (while waiting on the bathroom) helping Tevin on a school essay, although Kaleb chatting with them didn’t really help get the essay done.

I’m so glad all my kids get along, though. They’re not what you’d call the best of friends.. but they’re all friends.. and that means a lot to me.

I don’t know why Tevin has been so gloomy, but I comfort him when I can. His sad face just tears at my heart when he’s down.. so I work hard to keep him cheerful.

Kaleb is going through a phase, and seems very distant from the rest of us (although here he is, still having dinner with us, even though his face shows it all….) I try to get him to interact, but he’d rather play on his own for the most part.

It’s hard to be grumpy when it’s so pretty outside, though, apparently. And I can’t blame him. Not once have I ever regretted my move to the islands!

.. The kids finally tried out the chess board today, although I’m still not sure they completely understand the concept of the game. .. And yes, Kaleb was, once again, waiting on the bathroom to take his shower(s). I say showers only because it takes more than one to actually get clean.

It’s Monday again. School project day. But based on the faces they all had when they came home from school, it may be a bit before they are able to get started on them. They’ll certainly be queued up for the bathroom before then.. and Kaleb looks like he’ll need a nap.

Vaea decided he’d help Corina on her project, while somehow I got to help with Tevin’s.

Which was just as well, because between the two of us, we couldn’t wait to try the air pressure rocket off once it was built.

Vaea and Corina’s volcano was spectacular. And they took the rest of the evening off for a field trip to see the REAL volcano on the other island. They came back complaining of the people who litter over there and the fact that there was trash everywhere.. but the volcano was still amazing to see.

There was enough light left by the time we got the rocket done that we cheered as we set it off. We’re not entirely sure where it went since we lost it behind the clouds.. but it was still an amazing experience. (The next day, a neighbor brought it back, a little worse for wear, but still functional.. so Tevin was still able to get full credit for his project.)

Kaleb, true to form.. wanted to do his project by himself. He got confused on the instructions, though, and Vaea was called in to help in the end.

I wasn’t about to tell him Corina’s volcano had looked better (even though it had), because he was crazily proud of his work… and claimed he’d done most of it himself. Which, I suppose, he had. So his pride wasn’t exactly misplaced.

It was another long night, however, as the monster reappeared.. and the entire household ended up being awake for this one. I wish I could rig up a monster-sprayer that would just automatically spray every couple of hours so my babies could actually get some real sleep for a change!

Vaea still enjoys keeping his garden, by the way, even though he doesn’t really need the skill for his Manual Labor job anymore. It’s grown so well, and gives us wonderful fresh produce.. and it’s something that he really enjoys doing, so I don’t mind.

The next day was a long one, and we all ended up taking naps… on account of the monsters, of course. The kids still got their homework done, and the housework still got done, but it was definitely a struggle. It’s times like these that I almost regret choosing not to connect our house to the grid!

Chapter 0.9 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.11

Chapter 0.8 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.10

Generation Zero: Beige - Starts with a HUMAN Sim

Appearance: Dark Blonde Hair, poor clothing style
Traits: Slob, Childish, Clumsy
Aspiration: Pick whatever you'd like. (Your goal this
generation is only to become a Mermaid and have your heir)
Occupation: Part Time Jobs ONLY
House Goal: None
Lot Trait: Off the Grid

(A/N: This is being posted from my husband’s computer, because my computer decided to die. It’s complicated, but let’s just say it’s not working correctly. So I’m unable to get to a web browser, or 90% of the programs on my computer, but I’m still able to play sims and take screenshots. So I’m using a flash drive and a backup save to try to play as much as possible so I’ll still have daily updates for SimNaNoWriMo at the boolprop forums while my computer is at the shop. Or at least, that’s the hope. And hopefully all my sims saves will be okay. So keep your fingers crossed for me – and my poor computer!)

---

My family loves the ocean. As we should. But we hardly ever have time to enjoy it now that the twins are still toddlers. Part of me is very eager for when they’re grown to school age, because then I’ll be able to start enjoying the sea again. On another note, though, not being able to take time for collecting things for sale is not a problem, because we’re surviving just fine on the two jobs each of us have. Which is a huge positive, and something that, as a parent, I was worried about.

However, my house is a disaster. Between filthy toddlers, an exhausted Tevin who is still being beleaguered by nightly monsters, and now – things all over the house breaking. How does a non-electric fridge even break? At least Vaea is making dinner so I can concentrate on fixing things.

I don’t know how it breaks, but at least I was able to fix it. Granted, it took me most of the morning, but it works again now.

Once Tevin got home from school, he had another project due, so the two of us worked together on it. He had to build a midieval castle diorama, and we had a great time putting it together. I’m not sure what castle it was modelled after, or how historically accurate it was, but it was still fun.

Despite Tevin being miserable, I was still very proud of him for sticking it out and finishing the project.

By the time we were done, however, Vaea was more than done with watching two toddlers. The toddlers, amazingly, were both clean, and the even the dollhouse was still standing. I heartily congratulated Vaea on a job well done, and gave him the rest of the night “off”.

I fed Corina and Kaleb, and tucked them into bed, because the next day was a big one.

Vaea chose not to take the night “off”, but instead did laundry (I guess because he didn’t want either of us to have to do it on Winterfest.)

Tevin was thrilled to have a day off of school, and enthusiastically threw himself into decorating the tree. He did an excellent job, and only really needed help with the top of the tree because he simply couldn’t reach.

I bought us our own barbeque pit, and made a huge island feast for Winterfest. It saved me having to slave away in front of a gas stove, and made the entire yard smell delicious.

Father Winter showed up, and Tevin quickly made his acquaintance and started begging for presents.

Father Winter complied happily (while the toddlers were off getting into trouble, of course), and Tevin was really happy with his new toy.

Corina is definitely our little Wild Child. I caught her running around without her clothes earlier – in the middle of Winter! I quickly got her dressed again, and made sure she didn’t end up wandering around outside in the chilly air.

Tevin is finally a teenager! And he’s thrilled to finally “really” be a mermaid. He flapped his arms around like a dolphin in celebration, and had all of us laughing.

The twins, were, of course, filthy again. We can’t keep up with them, they’re always getting into everything – but it’s almost over.

Here’s Corina, who is near to having a temper tantrum because she’s absolutely uninterested in going to school the next day.

And here’s Kaleb, who is so proud of himself for growing up and finally getting a “big boy” bed. I hate to tell him, it’s probably going to be haunted by a monster at night, and he’s going to end up constantly tired. I really wish those monster lights worked. I hate my kids being miserable!

And here’s the disaster that was left over from two toddlers. Messes outside, messes inside.. messes basically everywhere.

And once again, the bathtub was broken. I felt like it was pretty much always broken.

The next day was a lovely day outside, and I was able to kick all of them out of the house so I could spend some time doing a serious deep clean.

…Okay, so the whole day wasn’t spent cleaning. I did take some “me” time.. with the dollhouse.

Kaleb ended up wanting to help, and put all the toys away – although he didn’t seem happy about it.

By evening, a storm had moved in, and Corina ran inside, terrified of the lightning. Poor thing. I comforted her as best as possible, and wondered about poor Vaea who was at work patrolling the beach.

Luckily, he came home later safely, and we had a wonderful family dinner. (Although Tevin decided he’d rather take a nap – I think he’s still recovering from the monster debacle.)

All I can say, is – I’m glad the toddler phase is over. And I’m absolutely sure I don’t want any more kids. I’m done with toddlers. Especially living off-the-grid. Vaea, thankfully, completely agrees. We’re so glad our little family is growing up, and that Spring is just around the corner.

Chapter 0.8 | Rules for this challenge | Chapter 0.10