The Wilsonoff Family_McIntosh Blvd

Changes

2009-03-03T19:37:00.000-08:00

Peacar 2000Construction on the Wilsonoff School of Business (grey building in the left corner) is almost complete. It sits in the main academic quad of Pierce University.

Other changes include that I've changed my hairstyle and locked my hair. The twins are almost 5 years old and wow, it seems like time flys. I still need to do some renovated at the Toy Shoppe, not to mention some renovating with my body. I've gained quite a bit of weight and it's not the cutest thing.

Quick Jet To Kimikura

2008-12-31T09:13:00.000-08:00

My older brother, Ray, came into town for a short visit with his girlfriend, Lydia. He had come into a bit of money and I convinced him to travel to Apple Valley so that we could go to Kimikura. Julio had found a great deal for four sims and it didn't take much convincing! We hired a nanny to watch the twins and we were off!

After checking into our hotel, we visited the hotel gift shop and brought some east asian outfits. Lydia and I kept picking the same kimono. I didn't realize that we both have very similar senses of style. We both LOVE the color brown-though I could live with orange as well.

After changing we visited the Majoung Market for a game of majoung and some authentic noodle dishes. The boys kept whispering on thier end of the bar, but Lydia and I barely noticed. We were so involved in our own conversation. Lydia is very interested in finances, like myself, so we spent most of the vacation debating about the economic slump and ways to avoid it and overcome it.

It wasn't all serious talk, we managed to book a historic walking tour through some of the ancient, historic and most popular destinations in Kimikura. It was amazing, we managed to see ancient temples, vast forest lands, native animal species and more. We saw the most amazing sculptures including deities representing Nature and Wealth.

During our trip we stopped at the world famous Kimikura Tea House for a traditional tea ceremony. It was amazing. I have to tell Sazo about this tea, he needs to start stocking it in his business...or perhaps I could open an import store...hmmm. Oh, back to the trip. What I didn't know during the tea ceremony is that Ray was nervously planning a big surprise for Lydia. Julio had to distract me for a few hours and he chose the perfect way, a nice long soak in the natural hot springs. Later Lydia and Ray joined us and she was beaming and waving her hands about. In spite of her waving her hands about, I was able to see that she was wearing grandmother's ring. I remember our mom looking for that ring after dad's funeral. She said that Lydia was something special and wanted Ray to have the ring to give to her. Seeing the ring made me teary eyed as memories of mom and grandmom rushed back to me.

All too soon, the trip was over and I was waving goodbye to my brother and my future sister-in-law (I'll let Ray give the details about the proposal!)

Educational Charity

2008-12-13T18:33:00.000-08:00

We liguidated some stock options, sold our share of The Peacock and cashed in the insurance checks. With the extra simoleans, I'm commissioning Wilsonoff Hall, school of business, as well as making a donation to Simmington Hills. I can not wait to see the new hall. I talked with Li and hope to make it in a similar fashion to this university building I saw. So she is sketching the details for me.

Expanding Again

2008-12-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

I think we should have another baby...the twins have celebrated thier first birthday and I am itching for another baby in the house...now...if only I can convince Rebecca.

Death..Again

2008-12-02T19:16:00.000-08:00

Mother died. Thankfully Ray was able to see her before she died...now I am alone in this world...no parents to guide me. I have found myself at the shop a little longer than neccessary and Li Sweeny offered a few words of encouragement. It meant a lot...I know she and her husband are struggling for a baby and yet they seem so optimistic.

Pets

2008-11-28T06:50:00.000-08:00

I think we sould invest in a pet, nothing furry at the moment, but a fish tank would entertain the twins. Also, fish are supposed to have a calming effect on sims and with all the stress lately of Rebecca being on the hood council, Ajani's death, Rayne's failing health, my promotion at work...well we could all use some stress relief.

Spic and Span

2008-11-11T19:55:00.000-08:00

Business has been slow at the Peacock...so slow that I had to clean windows out of boredom...I think the intense snow has kept families indoors. Perhaps offering some coupons would help boast business? Or hosting a special new years event at the place. I know that we need more tables, but there is a lack of space...perhaps expanding upstairs as well?

Studying

2008-11-09T19:49:00.000-08:00

The house is quiet...Christmas time is near and we're planning for the twins first holiday. The snow is heavy and the night air is obviously cooler. I've been under a lot of pressure at work by the medical centre director. She wants to make sure that I know everything I need to before her...demise if you want to say so. She's semi-retired, meaning she comes into work every other day, so that leaves the clinic in my hands. I honestly think we try to do too much at the clinic, but she won't listen...

Coldly Exercising

2008-11-04T19:57:00.000-08:00

I've thrown myself into my fitness regiman...it is one of the few things that I do to keep my mind off Ajani and the lack of his prescence...I hate it. Thankfully, I will see our son, Ray, soon as he and his girlfriend are coming for the memorial service. Roy could not make it due to the recent birth of his son...it will be nice to have most of my family in the same room again.

Unpleasant Convos

2008-10-31T18:47:00.000-07:00

Mother and I sat down shortly after father's death to discuss several unpleasant issues. Such as wills and insurance policies. I have to send checks to my brothers for father's insurance policy and mother wanted to discuss her policy, not the best conversation after a formal dinner out on the town to take our minds off daddy's death...

Goodbye my love

2008-10-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

My lover is like the morning fog, only here for a moment and then in the dawning of a new age, he is gone. My husband of many many simdays is dead...thankfully we enjoyed our anniversary party, but I resent him for leaving me here without him. Here alone with such a cold empty bed. WHY!!!!

Death

2008-10-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

Father died. It was such an ironic death. He

recieved the news of his twin sister's death (Aunt Ayanna or Aunt 'Yanna as we call her) and once he barely hung up the phone when he clutched his heart and died!!! Now the family has to plan his funeral, I told Ray so hopefully he can come for the funeral...

A Small Party

2008-10-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

I am glad that I agreed to host a small anniversary party for Ajani and I. Time is so short and I think I did not realize how old we had gotten. Our hair is now silver and our wrinkles deeper, but our love is stronger and our family ties are like steel. Aging does have it's benefits.

Happy Anniversary!

2008-10-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

Rayne and I celebrated our golden anniversary with a small group of family and friends. It was wonderful seeing the look on my darling wife's face. I think I love her more than I did when we first married. I am very content, all my children are safe and happy. My niece gave me word of my son Ray and how he's doing in his new hood. He has a little girlfriend, can you believe it! Perhaps I'll have a chance to visit him and his family once he decides to settle down and have a few children.

Finally News!

2008-10-13T16:02:00.000-07:00

Finally we recieved news of Ray from my niece, Fiona. Rebecca talks with him a lot, but Fiona was able to see him in the flesh and that calmed my nerves, especially after the news of the huge hurricane that swept his hood, Simmington Hills. Well he's fine according to our niece and even interested in a lady friend, so maybe I'll get grandchildren from him before my death. All my friends are getting old and making sure thier wills and insurance policies are accurate...a morbid outlook, but at my age it's simply reality.

Brand Spanking New

2008-10-12T17:05:00.000-07:00

Business has been good so I splurged on a kitchen redo. Nothing fancy, just new counters and tile walls and a new dining room set. Speaking of business, getting the new buildings up and running is taking longer than I expected. The Peacock is back and running, but I need a new host since Fiona is joining the hood council, so I will promote Jorge and then hire a local teen or two to work as servers. Good help is hard to find, I hope we are able to do something about that soon.

A Grandmother

2008-10-08T17:03:00.000-07:00

Yea, I'm a grandmother, but still a fit and cute granny. I can keep up with the twins better than the kids. I think it's my special protien shakes, I tried to share one with Rebecca, but she said it smelled horrible. What does she know! Wheat grass and rye seed are wonderful antioxidants. Doesn't she know?

Another Baby?

2008-10-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

I know the twins are still infants, but I have already started talking to Rebecca about the possibility of another baby. I want a houseful of kids, heck it was five of us in the house and we didn't kill each other. Amazingly, Rebecca didn't scream bloody murder when I suggested another child. She simply said that it would be best to wait until the twins celebrated thier first birthday before we start trying again.

The New Stores

2008-09-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Visited the new and improved CupaJava and I must admit, I love the large open windows. It was a welcome sight to see the hood but not experience the cold weather. I picked up some coffee for my parents' anniversary party (those elders can drink a lot of coffee) and a box of cigars for Julio.

Explorers

2008-08-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

Two children signed up for Explorers and our first event was participating in the fishing contest for the Food Expo. I taught them how to bait and cast a reel, we didn't catch very much, but that's alright. I mostly wanted to bond with the children. This simweekend we're going on a camping trip to Schatazweitzier Mountain. I am still searching for acceptable uniforms or at least shirts/sweaters so we'll see.

Helping out

2008-07-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

I visited Pastor Lyndon's house today and simply helped out in the garden. He and his family don't have the time, nor the knowledge to care for thier plants, so I weeded, watered and disposed of a few items for them. I mean, they do so much for the hood anyway.

Building Plans

2008-07-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

I overheard some teens talking about the lack of recreational activities for them and I wondered about starting a youth oriented hangout. There is empty space above The Toy Shoppe and I could get a loan, add a few arcade games, lounge seating, a dance floor and music and a smoothie bar (or maybe nightly snacks like sodas & pizza) and viola! A teen hangout! I could charge admission for the nightly club or simply have the arcade machines collect simoleans and limit the amount of pizza and soda. However, I do like the idea of charging admission. I could simply just have the club open after the Toy Shoppe closes...or maybe the Toy Shoppe could be open on simMonday - simThursday days, while the club is open on simFriday and simSaturday nights. I'd have to do bartender duty of course, but we'll see how that goes. Hmmm...that would be a nice venture actually. For now I am looking to hire a trainer to learn how to craft robots and man the cash register. Mom and dad are getting older and I need to make some wise business desicions, especially now that I'm a mother.

My Son...and Daughter

2008-07-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

I am a proud father. Twins in fact. I wasn't surprised since I am a twin and Rebecca's father is a twin, but to have your own to raise...very different.

I have accepted a new position at the Medical Centre, the director is getting...older, so I am training for her role. Finally. It will mean a pay increase, which is needed around here and of course more responsibility.

A Surprise Delivery

2008-07-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

I am a grandmother and not to soon either! When Rebecca started screaming about pain and cramping in her belly, I knew that the time had arrived. Thankfully simhours later, I was the proud grandmother of twins, a boy and a girl. Rebecca is content and wants no more children, but of course the rest of the family wants more. I wonder how my sons are doing? There was a tragedy where Roy lives, but I haven't heard word about him...only that they are still searching for him. I hope he is alright. Ray...well, I hope Ray doesn't cause any trouble in Simmington Hills.

Twins

2008-07-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

Thank the Lord! I am a grandfather! Finally! Rebecca and Julio doubly blessed us with twins! Abel and Amanda, such beautiful babies. My wife and I are so happy that we want to do it again! (become grandparents that is)

Explorers

2008-06-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

I am the Explorer Leader! Explorers is an organization for children/teens with the aim of supporting them in their physical, mental and spiritual development, so that they may play constructive roles in society.

We're having our first meeting at Celebration Park, I will be discuss a camping trip to Schatazweitzier Mountain and handing out uniforms and answering questions.

I can't wait, we're going to enjoy hiking, birdwatching, insect collecting and more!

Loan?

2008-06-01T05:50:00.000-07:00

Been seriously thinking about a loan. We had enough simoleans to build an addition to the house, but now we need funds to run the businesses. We can't run a business without inventory! Agh! Soon the baby (or babies since Julio is a twin and dad is a twin) will be here.

Baby Blues?

2008-05-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

So we're pregnant. Rebecca is anxious about simoleans and wondering about expanding the house. I understand her fear since we just had an expensive vacation, redecorated much of the living room and kitchen and brought a second business. I suppose we could get a loan for the expansion project of the house, but that would be another bill.

To calm my mind I've been spending time outside-while I can. Raking leaves, looking at birds and examining insects. I've even started an insect collection. Rebecca isn't fond of it, but it's fascinating the types of insects on this island. I"ve also joined the garden club. I like talking to other sims that love nature and plants.

Pregnant

2008-05-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

Wow, we wanted to start trying for a baby soon after the honeymoon, but it seems as if we may have started a bit too early. I found out that I am pregnant. I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, I am happy. A little baby will soon join the house, but that means some remodeling. Right now the third bedroom is used for the crafting room. Meaning either crafts get moved to the outdoors-not the best with winter coming soon, or we need to expand the house and build another room. Yikes, I hope we get some profits from the stores soon! Mama's got a baby on board!

Raise!

2008-05-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

I got a raise at work-thank goodness. The employees at the Medical Centre are some of the lowest paid sims on the island. We're having a meeting this simweek to discuss a new name for the centre-something not so...generic. So we're supposed to come prepared and I'm researching notable sims in the medical history of Apple Valley for possible names.

New Inventory

2008-05-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

With my crafting skill so low, I think I will also invest in creating my own collection of children's items. I have some ideas about baby blankets, dolls for the girls and of course teddy bears to go with my new series I'm writing. Yep, I'm writing a series of children's books about the adventures of a group of creatures called The Fruit Head Bears. I thought about the idea during our honeymoon and even wrote down some ideas (in bewteen making sand castles and swimming). Julio was the one to persuade me to go ahead and give publishing a try, as something to do during downtimes at the shop (very rare) and on days the shop is closed (when I'm not trying to work on inventory or hound my crafters). Maybe if the book is good, I could get a TV series for the bears and then a line of bedding (and matching pillows, curtains and rugs or course) and what about clothing-the kids would want to wear clothing of the bears and tennis shoes and bookbags and then we would be rich and The Fruit Head Bears would dominate the world!!!!!

*sigh* If only I could finish the first chapter.

Finally, Honeymoon

2008-05-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

Rebecca and I returned from our honeymoon to Tiki Island not too long ago. It was rather short, but enough. We spent time at the beach, swam, visited an old pirate's ship and ate lots of food-including the best ice-cream I ever had! Wonderful! Rebecca and I were so distracted by each other that at times we forgot to...protect ourselves if you will. Ah, well. I am prepared for fatherhood should the opportunity come. Speaking of which, Rebecca seems to be more inclined to motherhood. We talked about it during the honeymoon and we even agreed to start trying for a baby soon! I can't wait!

Working on Building Inventory

2008-05-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

I would like to take another vacation, but in order to do so, Ajani and I must build up the inventory for the shop since Rebecca isn't quite as skilled at building toys or robots. She is trying to learn, but her talents lie in the administration of the business. It would be better for her to hire a crafter, perhaps even buy the toys from the crafter.

I was browsing the Farmer's Market and saw some wonderful flowers and it got me thinking. With the talk of the new apprenticeship guild, perhaps we should establish a scholarship for one student to attend as long as thier guild is toy design. Then they could help around the store and the next generation of toy crafters would be established. I'll put the idea to Ajani and Rebecca. It would cost at least $1500 (half the tuition/room/board) to make it appealing to students, but I think we could cover the entire cost of the education ($3000) to ensure quality products in the future.

Owning The Peacock

2008-04-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

The Peacock came up for sale and I put my bid in. What do I know about the resturaunt business? Nothing, but I know good business. The Peacock is fully staffed-employees are happy with thier pay (somewhat, but small raises would fix that) and hours-business is good. All I need to do is walk about, clearing a table occasionally and letting the employees make money for me. According to the documents, I would officially be known as the "manager"-but technically I'll own the resturaunt. I'll have to send a check every simday with a percentage of the profits-but that's ok. I met my cousin, Fiona, for cake and coffee at CupaJava (owned by a distant cousin...sort of) and we talked about her upcoming wedding. Her mom is making the invitations and she's expecting a lot of interhood guests.

New Family and Babies

2008-03-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

My in-laws and I want children, well-they want grandchildren. The only thing is that Rebecca doesn't want a child right now. Perhaps she will think differently in a few simdays. I think a little one running about would be wonderful. A little girl that looks like her mother. My twin brother, Jorge, and his wife are trying to have a baby. I wish them all the luck in the world. I need to visit with him, perhaps we should go out for dinner. Invite Antonio as well, and have a brother's night out.

A New Generation

2008-03-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Rebecca and Julio are finally married, soon Rayne and I will step back in the home. We've already turned the reins over to Rebecca for the business, but we still maintain control over the home to some degree. It's strange with the newlyweds in the house. At the wedding we met the new resident everyone has been buzzing about, Li Yoo. She seems like a nice individual, a bit quiet but very articulate...cute too.

Growing Family

2008-03-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

Rebecca is married and our sons are settling into thier new hoods. Things are going nicely I must say and my new son-in-law is very sweet. I adore him. I told him that he should consider running for the Community Director position in the upcoming elections. He has a few simdays to think about it before he needs to declare his candidancy, but he would be the perfect fit.

Married, at last

2008-02-25T14:06:00.000-08:00

Finally I am married and can go about my business without worrying about Julio's affections. We had a small wedding and we're taking a nice vacation simtomorrow. However... I will miss the shop. I am working on learning how to craft toys, but I think I may just hire another crafter once mother decides not to craft anymore. Thankfully the shop sells more than just crafted toys. Nursery sets and other custom ordered toys fill our shelves. In fact I sold quite a few nursery sets to some eager grandparents on the isle. I suppose thier children will soon be fulfilling thier wishes. I predict a baby boom in fact. Speaking of babies, Julio wants to start trying for a baby. Ugh, not yet. We just married. To make matters worse, mom and dad are also asking for grandchildren. Grrr....

Married Man

2008-02-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

Finally Rebecca and I are married! I've waited so long to be with her and have her as my wife! Yes! We were first in the rotation so we quickly put on our formal attire and went to the church and married. My brother, Antonio, took photos (for a family discounted price of course) and we enjoyed a small wedding dinner at the house afterwards.

We're traveling to Tiki Island for our honeymoon the next simday. We haven't decided where we will be staying yet, I would love to visit the Greke Isle with it's stone whitewashed buildings, sandy shores and deep blue ocean. Maybe even the cosmopolition Sunset Beach with the modern hotels and celebrities or the Ti'japaki Rainforest and the active volcanos and hot springs.

As long as I am with my wife, I don't care where we go! I would like to start trying for a family now. I am a bit older than Rebecca and we both lost out on valuable time sitting in the shelter, but I don't want to rush her. Maybe two children, definately not more.

My son

2008-02-05T07:55:00.000-08:00

My son Ray is doing quite well for himself. He joined Aldaleigh's FENSE society and has started his own bakery in Simmington Hills. I think that he will do quite well for himself, as long as he stays out of trouble with the females.

Little Shop

2008-01-28T12:14:00.000-08:00

The Toy Shoppe is booming! We recieved a Best of the Best Award! I must say a lot of my ideas are awesome!

We now sell toys and nursery items! I ordered the new shipment of dolls and am negogiating a contract with the Power Bears book series to get the bears and the books into the store. That would be a great way to get more customers!

Almost

2008-01-20T12:48:00.000-08:00

Rebecca is almost ready to take over the shop, I have to teach her some more skills, but then she can take over ownership and I will step back into more crafting.

Right now she sells to customers and is making management decisions, while Ajani mans the register and creates the robots and I still create the toys. I think she will do well.

I'm in Charge!

2008-01-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

I'm in charge! I will soon be the owner of Toy Shoppe, but of course my parents still have so much to teach me. I have many new ideas and will sell custom toys. Teddy bears and dolls, maybe toy boxes and blocks. I could gain recognition as a famour toy designer!

Julio and I will marry soon, I am excited a bit. I haven't had time to plan a wedding much, mom isn't much help. She says it's my day and to have it however I want. I have my dress, thank goodness. It's A.Pentrignani's Alvaro. I still need to plan my hair, I want some flowers to be in it-or maybe a nice ribbon surrounding my bun. But we still haven't decided on a location, there's the botanical gardens, but Jolie recently had her wedding there and then the vineyard but that celebrity couple had thier wedding there.

We could do a destination wedding, maybe go to Kimikura, mom and dad said that it is beautiful there and we could probably marry at the Lucky Temple. That might be interesting. I could invite Jolie and Jorge (Julio's twin), that would be a nice holiday. Yes, that does sound wonderful.

New Kitchen

2008-01-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

We had some extra cash due to recieving the Owner's Association Award for the Toy Shoppe. We used the money to make the shop better, take a vacation, add an addition to the house and finally-get a new kitchen. Rebecca will be taking over the house and the store soon, which means one of us can stay home and "retire", unfortunately it wouldn't be a very relaxing retirement since Rebecca only has some basic levels in her sales and cashier badges and none in her toy making.

Homemakers Club

2007-12-19T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am in charge of this simweek's Homemakers Club Meeting. We're going to meet at CupaJava for some espresso and maybe a cake...or two and discuss how we can bring Exercise in the Home. I will publish the minutes from the meeting.

I'm an elder and life is slowing down. I will not run for re-election, I wonder who will take my spot on the Hood Council.

Grooming

2007-11-30T11:28:00.000-08:00

Going through our hold vacation photos. The Zen garden was so great, I loved to groom it-o, yes, the vacation was lovely, we stayed in our underwear for most fo the trip-hihi! I felt so alive. We had a small party when we returned to celebrate our golden anniversary! Rebecca was able to come from school and we told her all about the trip!

Hood Council Note: Farming Rights

2007-11-24T13:52:00.000-08:00

There's been a lot of discussion about farming rights and food produce for the hood, so I decided to do a formal report.

Number of households: 13 (not including house on BAP Campus-thier food source comes from national sources)

Current Number of Residential lots: 15

Number of ground plots needed to feed each lot: 5

Total number of ground plots needed: 75

Only one family has farm rights. These farm rights include:

Must develop/harvest a minimum of 22 ground plots, 3 fruit trees or any combination of the two to equal 25 (ie 20 ground plots/5 fruit trees; 10 ground plots, 15 fruit trees, etc).
Must develop at least one plot of each food: Tomatoes , Strawberries , Cucumbers , Pole Beans, Peppers , Eggplant.
Must have at least two fruit trees variety: Apple, Lemon, Orange
May reside on a 3x3 to a 4x3 lot
$300 incentive each season

Mendenhall Farm: 30 plots (5 plots of each variety) + 6 fruit trees (2 trees of each variety) + 3 bee hives that each produce 4 jars of honey simdaily (12 jars (6 servings each (72 meals total)) simdaily)+ small pond with healthy fish population.

There are no grocery stores and Smokey Jane's reduced it's selection of fine wines and cheeses that can be purchased-thus families pay an additional $50 delivery fee for processed food. This is an incentive for families to buy fresh local produce from the Farmer's Market. As long as prices are kept reasonable, the hood council will be able to support the farm and local produce.

As My

2007-11-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

I miss my children. When my son, Roy, prepared to leave, I shared with him an ancient tale from our vacation. When Ray decided to leave, I shared a check with him. Thankfully Rebecca is staying in Apple Valley with her family. I don't fault the boys, there are better opportunities for them in other hoods. I miss them.

Goodbye!

2007-11-11T13:50:00.000-08:00

I am out of here! Where am I going you ask? I'm going to Murdville! Grigia and I both got accepted and we're on our way. We have a lot of paperwork to process but thankfully things will be fine. I will transition when I arrive so mom and dad will miss out on that, but that's ok. Whooppie!!!

School

2007-11-03T13:46:00.000-07:00

Riverdale said wait-I am inpatient and want to start teaching now! Today at lunch, Grigia told me about her immigration application to Murdville. I wonder if they'll accept me as well, I could start a school there.

Hood Council Note: Musik Faire

2007-11-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

The Musik Festival has been approved. It will be the last day of summer, a nice event for the teens, at The Foundry. It will be in the evening of the Summer Festival and we're importing special snack kiosks for the event, as well as making sure there is ample room and restrooms.

Performers
Sam Jones, Mayfair Plaza: pending
Selena Farrell, Mayfair Plaza: pending
Sergio Gitano, Harper's Cove: confirmed
The Fighters, Palatial Heights: confirmed

Special Guests
Chad Vanderburg, MC: confirmed

There will be a re-release of Alisa Crawston's CDs and concert tees; and the sales of the other performers CDs and tees. Tickets will be on sale for $50 and VIP tickets will be on sale for ~$150 and will feature access to the VIP lounge, meet and greet with performers and a special souvenior backstage pass. The profits will go towards the purchase of new computers for the school.

Brrr Cold

2007-11-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

Gosh, no one told me that uni was so cold! It's always snowing and freezing! Yikes! O, uni is going well, I'm learning lots of theory behind business, and even some hands on studies, but not a lot. I wish I just stayed at home and ran the business, this economics degree won't help me with managing the Toy Shoppe! I'm doing well though, managing a high GPA-I need more hands on projects!

Vacation

2007-10-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

Rayne and I went to Kimikura to celebrate our anniversary and our elder birthday. It was a nice trip. We learned so much and enjoyed each other's company-I don't like being old though, I wet my pants while in the shopping district-so embarassing!

Teaching

2007-10-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

There's a position open in Riverdale for a teacher, I would love to apply-I sent them a letter explaining my desire, maybe they'll let me come. I'm very very skilled!

Hood Council Note: New Tasks?

2007-10-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

With the new deal, we're supposed to discuss how to manage the new task of overseeing the increased travel and vacation destinations. Since I'm in charge of culture, it falls to me :(

Thankfully there isn't much. So here's an update to my plan:

Secure family values, uphold rights for children and elders

Encourage families to create wills by hosting a free class at The Centre, free donuts will bring a bigger crowd

~~Research health insurance policies for residents~~

Establish a play group system for children to meet thier neighbors

Ensure a family friendly and healthy community for current & future generations.

Encourage residents to compost instead of trash (see report in paper)

~~Install more lights and benches at the parks~~

Obtain address signs for homes

Ensure adequate culture, local food produce, restaurants and bars, & social meeting places.

Look into selling travel certificates

Look into hosting charter tours

Host a child friendly event: Children's Festival with free lemonade and sweets and local entertainment and games and prizes. Location: Celebration Park or Modern Sculpture Park, cost for residents: free

Host a teen-friendly event.Musik Festival with concerts from local bands and maybe some international acts (contact Sergio Gitano of Harper's Cove, post notice on Career & Fame Board). Location: The Foundry

~~Add a trend section in the local paper. Will review resturaunts, bars, etc. Also help residents stay abreast of the local trends.~~

~~Allow local farmer's to reside on larger lots, thus produce more food.~~

~~Build a public pool and gym for residents to enjoy in the summer time~~

Ensure a quality education system for residents

~~Build a local school for the children of Apple Valley.~~

Host graduation ceremonies for graduates of the school and the university

~~Encourage more extracurricular activities for teens and children-start with debate team, chess club, and simscouting program~~ Postponed until more information about Spring 2008 Deal is revealed.

Finally-A Teen

2007-10-02T13:53:00.000-07:00

I'm finally a teen and I don't know what to do!!! It was all so simple when I was younger. Mom and Dad said that I will grow into myself and find my own interests and hobbies, but what? What could I do?

Studies

2007-09-23T13:06:00.000-07:00

With Julio gone I have to concentrate on my studies more-no more dates, well, I do see him sometimes, but school has gotten so busy-especially with my business classes. Mom and Dad are moving to another house-I was able to see it since I will be the one inheriting it later...wow...I am almost an adult-it doesn't feel like it.

Reviews

2007-09-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

Did a review for the Apple Valley News of Tati's. I won't say too much since it will be in my article, but I can talk about the reviews/trend section.

Each paper will have the section and we'll either have a review of a business (done by various sims so businesses won't start trying to be nice to one particular viewer). The businesses can earn ratings of up to five apples (the worst rating is the "Rotten Apple" the best is the "Golden Apple"). Ka'obi wants to award a Golden Apple to a business each simweek and the reviews will help her with the task. The other part of the reviews/trends is that we'll have residents tell us what's hot and what's not...we haven't fully decided about this part yet since STAR has a similar section and Clark doesn't want to repeat.

Hood Council Note: Community Director Report

2007-09-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Update on my progress this term:

Secure family values, uphold rights for children and elders

Encourage families to create wills by hosting a free class at The Centre, free donuts will bring a bigger crowd

~~Research health insurance policies for residents~~

Establish a play group system for children to meet thier neighbors

Ensure a family friendly and healthy community for current & future generations.

Encourage residents to compost instead of trash

~~Install more lights and benches at the parks~~

Obtain address signs for homes

Ensure adequate culture, local food produce, restaurants and bars, & social meeting places.

Host a child friendly event: Children's Festival with free lemonade and sweets and local entertainment and games and prizes. Location: Celebration Park or Modern Sculpture Park, cost for residents: free

Host a teen-friendly event. (What's cool now?): Musik Festival with concerts from local bands (contact Selita Grey) and maybe some international acts (contact Sergio Gitano of Harper's Cove, post notice on Career & Fame Board). Location: The Foundry

~~Add a trend section in the local paper. Will review resturaunts, bars, etc. Also help residents stay abreast of the local trends.~~

~~Allow local farmer's to reside on larger lots, thus produce more food.~~

~~Build a public pool and gym for residents to enjoy in the summer time~~

Ensure a quality education system for residents

~~Build a local school for the children of Apple Valley.~~

Host graduation ceremonies for graduates of the school and the university

Encourage more extracurricular activities for teens and children-start with debate team, chess club, and simscouting program

Engaged

2007-08-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

WOW! It so...WOW! It was Julio's last day on campus and we went for a walk in the snow...next thing I know he's on his knees proposing!!! I said yes of course! I can't wait until mom sees my ring!

Date

2007-08-29T11:21:00.000-07:00

Went to the park with my lovely wife, it's been so long since we had a nice date for the two of us. She talked about the upcoming trial, that seems to be the topic on every sims mind these days. We also discussed pulling up our roots and buying that empty house on Fuji. We would convert the Toy Shoppe into a community lot and finally seperate it from our home. It would be good especially with Rebecca's interest in the business.

Happened So Fast

2007-08-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with Julio! I always thought he was cute and a very good friend and I secretly crushed on him-but never thought he liked me too! Well oncampus he confessed and we started dating! He's a senior and I'm a freshman, so all the other freshmen think that I'm amazing for snagging a cute senior! He wants to run the medical centre, I'll continue the Toy Shoppe and together...together we'll be the best!

Good bye!

2007-08-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm off for university. All my things are packed and I can't wait to learn about business and economics.

My family took me out to Tati's as a treat and I got to order whatever I wanted! It was great!

I can't wait to start university. Mom made me promise that I would get a make-over once I reached campus and that Roy could come visit me. That's ok, a small price to pay for learning.

Family Trip to the Park

2007-07-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

Before Rebecca left for university, we all had a trip to the park. It was nice seeing my family enjoy nature and each other. I must post a note to see how my son, Ray, is doing in Simmington Hills. Ayanna mentioned that she might be making a tour to some nearby hoods and that she would try to visit Simmington Hills. I hope she says hello to Ray and see how he's doing.

Exercise in the Family

2007-07-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

I decided to get the family involved in some exercise routines. Even little Roy joined us in jumping jacks and streches. I think that the family that exercises together will have a healthy life together.

I will look into promoting a healthier lifestyle in the hood, so many teens and children are overweight and eat junk food all day. Chips and cookies. No, especially with so much fresh food, children should snack on juice, honey wheat cakes and fresh salads.

University

2007-07-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

I leave for university soon, the next simday in fact. Rosemary and I are both going to be freshmen and hopefully we can share a room and be roommates.

Mum says that she thinks Rosemary likes me as more than a friend, but...I doubt it, besides, Julio still calls me from university. He says that he's waiting on me. How sweet is that! He will be a senior when I get there, but hopefully...well, I don't want to dream too much. Besides, he is busy with school and trying to get a job at the medical centre...why would he wait for a sim like me?

Trial of the Century

2007-07-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

I stopped by Celebration Park and bumped into Elda-the wife of Clark who broke the story that the Brad Dawson death might be murder. There are rumors that an arrest will happen soon and once the arrest happens, there will be a trial naturally. Thank goodness the construction is finished with the courthouse at The Centre. I hope there won't be a lot of press at the trial...I guess it depends on which sim they arrest.

Hood Council Note: Phase One School Curriculm Proposal

2007-07-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

Curriculm
Classes will be held simMonday-simFriday, 9am-3pm.
Teens: Level 3, simyears 14-18 (pupil count 4)
Teens: Level 4, simyears 18-22 (pupil count 0)
*Teens: Level 5, simyears 23-28 (pupil count 0)
9am-11pm: Morning Period
11am-1pm: Lunch/Break
1pm-3pm: Afternoon Period

Level 3 Class Schedule (AM/PM)
simMonday:Golf Clinic III/Science III
simTuesday: Art III/Shop Class III
simWednesday: Science III/Physical Education III
simThursday: Golf Clinic III /Shop Class III
simFriday: Art III/Physical Education III

Level 4 Class Schedule (AM/PM)
simMonday: Science VI/History IV
simTuesday: Physical Education VI /English VI
simWednesday: Home Ecomonics VI/Science VI
simThursday: English VI/Physical Education VI
simFriday: History IV/Home Ecomonics VI

*Level 4 Class Schedule
Optional for teens opting not to attend university.
Encourage teens will join a trainee program with a local business.
Teens can also take classes of thier choice.

Class Descriptions
-Science III (cleaning): students will learn how to find lurking bacteria
-Shop Class III (mechanical): students will learn how to craft small electronics
-Physical Education III (body): students will learn healthy habits through kick boxing
-Art III (creativity): students will learn the basics of cubism
-Golf Clinic III (charisma): students will learn how to play the game of golf
-Science VI (logic): students will study microbiology
-Home Ecomonics VI (cooking): students will study spaghetti techniques
-Physical Education VI (body): students will learn healthy habits through yoga
-English VI (charisma): students will learn how to effectively give speeches
-History IV (creativity): students will learn how to write historical research papers'

Extracurriculars (TBD): chess club, debate team, sports team, theater, yearbook, etc

Hood Council Note: Proposal for School: Phase One

2007-06-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Purpose
There is a need for the hood council to build a local school instead of bussing off the children and teens to other public schools where parents and the council can not monitor thier curriculm and education closely. This effort would take a considerable investment, but it would provide more jobs for residents and give us more control over the curriculm and education our children recieve.

State of the Hood's Education System
Currently the hood counts 9 teens and 10 children that are bussed off to nearby schools. It would take about two simdays to establish the Apple Valley school so that it can open on simMonday (if construction starts this simSaturday). By this time the pupil count would be 16 pupils. If we look at the number of students currently enrolled in private school: 5 teens and 2 children, that would ease the load of pupils for the school. Then that would leave 12 students to start the school.

Phase One
It will be best to slowly intergrate the students into the school and start with high school students and then add elementary students in Phase Two. With the increased requirements for university, the high school students are in danger of not being prepared for thier future. That would give the school 4 students to start with, also would only require 1 teacher. With this in mind:

Potential Jobs
1 Secondary School Teacher
-suggest teacher moves into an apartment on school grounds. If not possible, then at least the caretaker must move into the school.

1 Principal
-suggest that the Community Director holds this position to oversee the curriculm, will not increase duties of the CD too much, also will not cost the hood extra money to pay the principal.

1 Part-Time Cafeteria Worker or Delivered Pre-cooked Meals
-suggest delivered meals to save on cost. Can try to work a contract with Tati's

1 Part-Time Caretaker
-suggest either teacher does this afterschool or hire a worker to come in during afterschool hours to clean. Local maid service will be disruptive to classroom environment.

Classes/Grade Levels
Classes will be held simMonday-simFriday, 9am-3pm.
Will submit a more detailed curriculm proposal if the school proposal is approved.
Teens: Level 3, simyears 14-18 (pupil count 4)
Teens: Level 4, simyears 18-22 (pupil count 0)

Curriculm
Nationally Approved Curriculm/Subjects: use basic gradebooks
Extracurriculars: chess club, debate team, sports team, theater, yearbook, etc
Skill Building Classes: art, physical education, home ec, music class, shop class, etc

Investment
School Building
-believe this will be about $50,000 for the initial construction. Then another $30,000 for furnishing the school with neccessary equiptment.

Salary for Teacher
-can be a flat salary (suggest $1000/simweek) subsidized by the fact the teacher lives on campus and has room and board

Maintanience of School Building
-cleaning, repair work, landscaping, school supplies

Total Initial Investment=$90,000

We can qualify for the New School Education Grant ($35,000) and the Small School Iniative Grant ($40,000) which would require the hood to provide $15,000 towards the cost of the school, which is well within the budget.

Hood Council Note:My Plans for the Term

2007-06-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

My plans for the term as Community Director:

Secure family values, uphold rights for children and elders

Encourage families to create wills by hosting a free class at The Centre, free donuts will bring a bigger crowd
Research health insurance policies for residents
Establish a play group system for children to meet thier neighbors

Ensure a family friendly and healthy community for current & future generations.

Encourage residents to compost instead of trash
Install more lights and benches at the parks
Obtain address signs for homes

Ensure adequate culture, local food produce, restaurants and bars, & social meeting places.

Host a child friendly event: Children's Festival with free lemonade and sweets and local entertainment and games and prizes. Location: Celebration Park or Modern Sculpture Park, cost for residents: free
Host a teen-friendly event. (What's cool now?): Musik Festival with concerts from local bands (contact Selita Grey) and maybe some international acts (contact Sergio Gitano of Harper's Cove, post notice on Career & Fame Board). Location: The Foundry
Add a trend section in the local paper. Will review resturaunts, bars, etc. Also help residents stay abreast of the local trends.
Allow local farmer's to reside on larger lots, thus produce more food.
Build a public pool and gym for residents to enjoy in the summer time

Ensure a quality education system for residents

Build a local school for the children of Apple Valley.
Host graduation ceremonies for graduates of the school and the university
Encourage more extracurricular activities for teens and children-start with debate team, chess club, and simscouting program

Bye Bye Hello

2007-06-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

My big brother, Ray, moved to Simmington Hills. He wants to open a bakery or something. I still help out with the store, my skills are getting better, but not by much. I still haven't decided if I will go to university or not. Julio and I still talk on the phone. He's cute...older, much older. He's in university already. I doubt he would wait for me...

WooHoo! Goodbye!

2007-06-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

Goodbye Apple Valley! Hello Simmington Hills! I graduated this past simday (after a rousing game of snow war on campus) and am off to settle in Simmington Hills. Thanks Aunt Ayanna for believing in me, thanks Sabien for the encouragement! I can't wait. Mum and Pop were shocked, but they wished me the best and even took over my college loan-I can't emmigrate with debt-thanks mum and pop! Sister is happy-no direct competion for the Toy Shoppe and Roy...well Roy said he would miss me and cried. I was a bit sad. Also, my grandmum died...I can't go to the funeral because of my move.

Possibilities

2007-05-29T13:26:00.000-07:00

I've been taking breaks bewteen term papers and class cooking assignments. I found out about this interesting hood. It's kind of small, brand new in a way, but I would love to move there after graduation...maybe open a bakery. I could sell raisin buns and carrot muffins in the morning to the citizens, and chocolate eclairs in the evening. I bet I could make a bundle! That would be much better than baking for my great-uncle's coffee shop. They also have some nice looking ladies there...I wonder if they would dig a younger man?

Business

2007-05-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

Business is going well. Rebecca is learning the ropes at crafting toy bricks and she's even helping at the register at times. Sometimes I catch her helping customers find items or encouraging them to buy a gift for thier child. I think she will do well with the business. Very well. Ray is in university. He wants to be a pastry chef for his great-uncle's store, CupaJava. I might have to visit and talk with the family about that.

Birthday

2007-05-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

My baby brother celebrated his child birthday. It was rather eventful. We ate cake and that's about it. I help in the store after school. Sometimes I work the cash register, other times I help customers find items. Mum and Pop said that they will buy me my very own toy crafting station. I am excited. I will learn how to make toy bricks first and then kites! I wonder if I should go to university. I think I would do better training here at the store for those four simdays. I haven't asked mum and pop yet.

Future

2007-04-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

Should I be a chef? Or a baker? I like to bake-my best recipes are for tri-tier lemon almond chocolate torte. Yummy. I need to study more...will mom and dad be disappointed that I won't take over the business? Maybe I could start my own business. Sell cakes in my spare time. Maybe I'll work with CupaJava. They're starting a bakery section in thier shop. I can bake. I'll bake all day!

Contract

2007-04-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

The hood council has asked us to supply some toys for one of the parks-so Rayne is making those spinning top things and her custom water-octi as well as a few kites for good measure. I need to make some more toy robots for the shop and try to spend some more time with the children. Thankfully we decided to keep the Toy Shoppe on our land and work from home. Which means the commute is shorter, but residents didn't like the option of not being able to chose when to come to the store and buy a little goody, perhaps we could have a big grand reopening sale/event. Select items would be heavily discounted, raffles for free toys and plenty of cake. Yes, cake. Maybe Ray could bake some cake. Ray will be leaving for university soon, I have no idea what that young man is going to do. His sister, Rebecca, has made it clear that she wants to take over the toy business and has been helping Rayne craft toys, she's been doing pet bricks and soon she'll know enough to make music boxes and kites. Roy, well Roy is toddling about, soon he'll celebrate his child birthday and head off to school. Nothing else is happening except my twin sister is having issues at home with mother, the twins and the hood council.

Our Family

2007-03-31T19:52:00.000-07:00

Our family:

Rayne-co-owner of The Toy Shoppe/sales/master crafter
Ajani (Kent)-co-owner of The Toy Shoppe/cashier/restocker
Ray, teen-2 simdays until he starts university
Rebecca, teen-6 simdays until she starts university
Roy-child

Nothing more to say