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Dear reader, welcome back to the Bookacy Family Alphabet Adventures!

This is chapter 35 already, and as I'm not one to do regular recaps in the beginning of each chapter, I suggest that you start reading this story from the beginning, that is, chapter one. This chapter is an extended family update, so be warned, it's long and may contain traces of more sims than the law (or at least anyone's short term memory) permits. But, it appears to be Cyrus' and Chris' wedding day. Shall we go and see what's going on? ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Hi sis, said Cyrus squeezing Cho tightly, while Chris was welcoming Claire just as warmly and the rest of the immediate family waited for their turn. How are things? Oh, nice as of late. Dirk requires most of my attention these days. Hi from him and George too. Thanks. It's nice of George to babysit everyone's little ones for the wedding, we truly appreciate it. Are we the first to arrive? asked Trevor, looking around. So far yes, answered Chris, but I'm sure the others will start arriving any minute now. Let's head for the garden, I was just about to set up the buffet.

After everyone was done with the greetings round, Chris and Cyrus led their first guests to the garden where the wedding was to take place. The buffet was soon set up, and everyone helped themselves to the delicious-looking food. It was a kind of a daring choice to have the wedding in the garden don't you think? Cho asked her brother when they were settling down at a table with their plates. It's in the middle of the winter, after all the weather looks nice right now, but we could have had a snowstorm, too. I know, Cyrus nodded, We were kinda worried about that with Chris. But really, with a wedding as big as this one, having it outside really was the only option. We'd need a house bigger than yours to fit everyone, and we all know your house is big, he grinned. Anyway, so far the weather is good, and the heaters seem to be doing their job quite nicely. In case it does start snowing, we have the rent furniture company just a phonecall away, so we can have men setting up a temporary heated floor and an awning in a matter of a half an hour or so. But hopefully the weather stays good.

The party was slowly getting started. Everyone enjoyed the food, and every now and then someone new would arrive and Chris and Cyrus would jump up from the table to be greeted and congratulated by the newcomers. At some point the young couple deemed that a sufficient crowd had gathered, and got up. Cyrus clapped his hands to get everyone's attention. Friends, he started, at this point, we just wanted to wish you all welcome to our wedding. Me and Chris are both thrilled to see you all here, and I believe we'll be seeing some more of you yet. Thanks for coming on our big day. For the moment, continued Chris, beaming from his side, there's no particular programme going on. The idea is to eat, she gestured towards the buffet, and enjoy each other's company. The marriage ceremony and other slightly more official programme will take place in the evening. Until then, let's enjoy the refreshments and the company. The food is over here, and in case you need to rest a bit, warm up or use the bathroom, also the door is open. Thanks and welcome once more!

The guests obediently did as they were told. Discussion at the main table was lively. ... and little Dirk is certainly keeping us busy at the moment, finished Baudolino. But how about you? I think we last met properly when you got married, he gestured towards Claire and Trevor. If I remember correctly, Cho said that you went on a honeymoon to... Takemizu Village, is that right? How was that? Claire nodded. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Claire is the adopted daughter to Bill and Ira Riley, and first cousin to the current heiress, Cho. Trevor is her husband, originally a Sim State University dormie.

Yes, Takemizu Village. Well, you all remember the wedding, it was a great success, she beamed and squeezed Trevor's hand, Thanks once again for coming, it definitely wouldn't have been the same without you all. Our pleasure, said Baudolino smiling. We had the flight scheduled that very night, we left just about as soon as you'd all gone home and we'd gotten the chance to get changed, explained Claire. Yeah, confirmed Trevor. That of course left Bill and Ira with all the cleaning up, but they insisted that they could handle it. That was absolutely no problem, waved Bill dismissively at his son-in-law's apologetic words, You kids deserved the vacation and some time to spend together, to get properly started on married life.

So we got there alright, maybe feeling a little bit confused after the long flight, but the hotel seemed very nice. Quite luxorious, actually, which was nice for a honeymoon.

What'd you do? asked Cho, a bit of a mischevious smirk playing on her lips. She was going to ask something about getting out of the hotel room, but Baudolino gave her a stern look, so she didn't. Well, the first day we mostly just relaxed. The hotel had its ownd zen garden, and I wanted to try tending it. That was quite a soothing experience.

And I went to get a local massage, continued Trevor. It was very relaxing, and interesting too. The guy explained to me what he was doing, so I think I could do it myself, too. I certainly wouldn't object, said Claire with a wink.

In the evening we celebrated by going to a very nice restaurant, had our first dinner as a married couple. I really liked the place, the athmosphere was quite something, said Claire.

Then let's see, what else... pondered Claire aloud. Well, aside from the couple-y stuff... she continued and made Trevor blush vigorously, You're so cute when you blush like that, she teased. Yeah, ahem, said Trevor quickly, which made the rest of the table shake with supressed laughter, we also saw lots of interesting things.

Like, this shrine where you can make an offering. It's an ancient habit they say. I made an offering, and the shrine lit up green. The locals later told me that my offering was accepted and it would bring me good luck.

Yeah, that was quite nice to see, agreed Claire. But I think the man who invited us for a tea ceremony was even nicer, a real local experience. Oh yeah. The locals said there was a secret route to this place a small distance away. A local man, a meditation guru, lived there by himself, and the locals would go seek his wisdom. They just called him the Wise Old Man. Well, we went there and found him. He was in fact very nice, and invited us to have tea with him, the traditional way. He said he rarely had guests, especially from as far as Alphabetia, and he was quite interested in getting talk to us, too.

In the evening, he wanted to tell us an ancient legend, the Dragon Legend as he called it, explained Claire. It was fascinating, I could really see the events in the eyes of my mind. The legend must be thousands of years old, and it was simply captivating.

Well, that does sound quite exciting, said Baudolino. Marylena has been interested in visiting Takemizu village for a while now, maybe we will some day if we get the chance. It's absolutely worth it if you can, confirmed Trevor. Did you learn anything else? asked Baudolino. Well, Trevor met an actual Ninja, said Claire, that was quite exciting. That had the others quite impressed. I was getting a massage then, but he says that was very interesting, and the Ninja actually gave him some teleportation lessons! Wow, teleportation? Cho was in awe. Yeah, well, I'm not as good as he clearly was, but it was quite an interesting thing to learn and...

Meanwhile, Marylena decided to sit down at the next table, to say hello to Thomas, Clyde and their table company. Hello, Marylena, nice to see you! greeted Thomas as Marylena was approaching. Have a seat. Thank you Thomas, how are you? Oh I'm very well, thank you. I'm not sure if you've met everyone, have you? I'm not quite sure, actually, Marylena said, smiling. Clyde I of course remember, good to see you, she said, holding out a hand to the long-haired young man beside her. You too, he said, shaking her hand briskly.

Thomas went on. You probably haven't met Margaret here, he gestured. She recently got married to our Clyde here, he said proudly. Congratulations! said Marylena, shaking hands with Margaret. I'm Marylena, Cyrus' mother. Nice to meet you. Margaret. You too, said the young woman. Well, how are things? asked Marylena from Thomas. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Clyde is the son of Bonnie and Thomas Riley, and second cousin to Cho and Cyrus. Margaret is his spouse, originally a Sim State University dormie.

Well, it's been a busy time lately. First, me and Bonnie had our birthday, soon after Clyde moved back after college and asked Margaret to move in too. There was no actual party, since we were a bit too busy for that.

But we did grow up anyway, as you can see, grinned Thomas.

Bonnie still looks as gorgeous as she always has, by the way. She's in here somewhere, I think she went to powder her nose inside, say hi if you catch her.

It was around that time that Margaret started settling in with us, I believe. A little bit before, actually, she was already there for our birthday.

I don't suppose it came as a huge surprise to anyone when Clyde popped the question, said Thomas smiling. Margaret grinned and squeezed her husband's hand. Not even me, although a girl has to play along in these situations. Well you certainly seemed surprised at the time, when you nearly collapsed to the floor, teased Clyde. Hush you, I was only happy.

Well, be that as it may, continued Clyde with a wink at his listeners, there was no point in postponing the wedding any further, so that was held on the first possible occasion.

It was a nice ceremony, said Thomas, Bonnie and I were of course very happy. And it was nice to see so many could come even though the schedule was a bit rushed. Yes, Cho did say it was a very nice wedding. I'm sorry me and Baudolino couldn't make it, we had locked our schedule already. We totally understand, assured Clyde. But it was nice that Cho was able to come, still.

So what about after the wedding? I think Cho also said you had a honeymoon? asked Marylena. Yeah, Clyde nodded, we did. We went to Three Lakes. Oh, said Marylena, that sounds interesting. We've only visited Twikkii Island. How was it? Very nice and relaxing. Especially that one spa-day we did. The sauna was very nice. Did you get a massage?

I did, replied Margaret. That was incredibly relaxing, I really can recommend the local massage if your muscles are feeling stiff. That sounds wonderful, said Marylena smiling. I take it that you didn't spend the whole time in the spa? Well I could have, grinned Clyde, but Margaret insisted on seeing some of the local sights. She even had a map to this cottage up in the mountains, it was quite a hike there.

A cottage? Did someone live there or was it some kind of an old, abandoned cottage sort of sight? Well, said Margaret, it isn't really a well-known sight or anything, few sims actually wander there, but, yes, someone lived there. I was very excited when I found out, she explained, turning enthusiastic. It turned out that the cottage belonged to, can you believe it, an actual bigfoot! Marylena gasped. A bigfoot? Oh, I think Cho mentioned... Yes, Margaret nodded, his name is Bruce, and I believe Cho has met him while working in the bakery.

So he in fact lives with you, then? Yes. Clyde was a little wary at first, but we got to know each other pretty well over the vacation, and so he moved in with us. So will the cottage be empty, now then? Probably not, said Margaret, I asked Bruce about that and he said that there are some bigfeet in the forests of Three Lakes think of it, more bigfeet! and probably someone will take over at one point or another.

That sounds facinating, said Marylena, not really knowing whether she should find this whole bigfoot matter interesting or worrying. So that's what you were up to, then? That, among other things, said Clyde. We tried the local sports, too. Sports? What kind of sports do they do at Three Lakes? Well, there's log-rolling, where you stand on this big log floating on water and try to stay on it as it rolls. Or, try to make the person standing at the other end of the log fall into the water, Clyde explained.

And there's axe-throwing, added Margaret. Axe-throwing?!?! asked Marylena, sounding horrified. Thomas, who had been silently listening, laughed. That was my reaction too when they first told me. But... isn't that dangerous? Well, kind of obviously it is if you don't know what you're doing, commented Clyde. You have to take care you don't stand in the marked area, and even so, you have to follow the game very closely. But they say that there hasn't been an accident in a very long time.

We also tried some of the local foods, said Margaret, mostly to take Marylena's mind off axes. The flapjacks were especially delicious. You were getting quite hungry then, too, said Clyde with a playful look towards his wife. Margaret gave him a mock-hurt expression and a forceful No I was not!, to which Clyde replied by an adoring pat on his wife's quite obvious baby-belly.

The local customs were quite interesting, said Margaret to Marylena, For example, did you know that at Three Lakes, sims greet each other by pounding their chest? Oh, no I didn't. I know there is a special local greeting on Twikkii Island, we saw it on our honeymoon there, but I'm not really familiar with the Three Lakes habits. I wasn't either, but it was very interesting to meet the local and learn something about their customs. I'm sure it was, dear, that sounds very interesting, said Marylena. I'll have to tell Baudolino about your trip, I'm sure he'd be fascinated too.

So Bruce ended up living together with you? Marylena continued. Yes, said Thomas, We were a little stunned with Bonnie when Clyde and Margaret came home and asked whether we'd have room in the house for a very nice bigfoot! I can imagine! said Marylena, chuckling. But it all turned out very well. We had an empty bedroom, and really, Bruce is a very nice fellow, it's been easy to become friends with him, and he comes along with the dog as well. Not everyone does, Spot is a bit... challenging at times. Marylena remembered very distinctly that one time she'd visited the Thayers and Spot had nothing but growled and barked at her, until Bonnie had had to lock him in an empty bedroom for the visit. She nodded. He took up a position in the Law career, said he's always wanted to be The Law, but there haven't really been possibilities for that at Three Lakes. We were worried at first about how the coworkers would react to a guy who looks as different as Bruce, but it seems we needn't have. They have been very interested in him, reacted very positively overall, and some of them have even given him presents!

That's nice to hear, said Marylena. How's working life for the rest of you then? she asked, gesturing towards Clyde and Margaret. Well, Margaret works in Science, said Clyde, but obviously she's on maternity leave right now. She's doing quite nicely I think, bagged a couple of promotions already. Margaret blushed with pleasure, and Marylena nodded and smiled approvingly. Myself, well I had a bit of a rough start, Clyde continued. I got a job in the Criminal field, like I'd always wanted to, but on my very first day, I somehow managed to get myself into a bad chance card, and got fired. Oh, said Marylena sympaethically. I'm so sorry! Clyde smiled. Luckily, that's not the whole story. I tried pleading with the boss, but he'd have none of it. I was pretty devastated, as you can imagine. But then, my darling Margaret pointed out to me that it was still my first day, so the job advert where they were hiring sims for the Criminal track would still be online. So I went to check and got a position under a different boss, and since then things have gone a lot smoother.

Well you have clearly found a keeper then, Clyde, said Marylena, smiling at Margaret. If you don't mind me asking, how far along are you now? Third trimester, said Margaret. We found out I was pregnant after we came back from Three Lakes. The trimester isn't very far yet, but we're eagerly expecting. As are Bonnie and Thomas surely as well, said Marylena with a smile. Congratulations, dear! Thank you.

Marylena turned to Thomas. So it seems all is going well in your home then. I'm really glad to hear that. Oh yes indeed, me and Bonnie couldn't be happier with how things have turned out, he replied, beaming. After a moment of silence, Thomas jumped. My plumbbob! I'm being terribly inpolite! I was going to do the introductions but we got all sidetracked and I forgot. Marylena gasped. Goodness, it's all my fault, I started asking all these questions and... I'm so sorry, she said, embarassed, to the two sims sitting at the other end of the table.

Oh, not at all, said the blond young man, smiling, and the familiar looking young lady nodded vigorously, That was fascinating to hear, we've been listening intently. Thomas took the lead. Marylena, I believe you've met Corinna, Barry and Laura's oldest. The darkhaired woman rose with a little difficulty to shake her hand, as she too was clearly pregnant. Ah, I was wondering whether you were one of their girls, you look an awfully lot like Laura but I wasn't sure which one you'd be. Corinna laughed. No wonder, we are four. I'm really surprised our parents can keep us straight as well as they can. And this is Weldon, Corinna's husband, continued Thomas the introductions. Nice to meet you, said the man holding out a hand, which Marylena shook. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Corinna is the oldest daughter of Barry and Laura Custer, and second cousin to Cho and Cyrus. Weldon is her husband, originally a SSU dormie.

Well, since you two have been so quiet so far, while the rest of us have been babbling away, I believe it's only fair you should have your turn now. How has life been for you two lovebirds? asked Marylena. Well, said Corinna, pondering where to start, after college, me and Weldon decided to move in with my parents. They were hoping that we would, and with the renovation plans they were having, we were sure to fit in. Oh, Barry and Laura have done a renovation? asked Marylena. Thomas chipped in: I think a lot of the family have, actually. It's been quite popular to expand the house a bit now that the next generation returns from college, many with spouses. Corinna nodded. Yeah, that seems to be a trend. And the results have been quite nice, I think so anyway. You should come see the house some time. Oh thank you, maybe I should, said Marylena. So yeah, after college we settled in, and it wasn't long after that we got engaged. After all, we'd known for a while we'd get married.

We had a fairly small wedding, explained Weldon, As Corinna said, we'd both known for a while we'd get married, and we didn't want to make a big fuss about it. I mean, we were eager to get to it, but... I know what you mean, Marylena said, nodding. Not everyone wants to make the wedding 'the event of the year'. Exactly, said Corinna.

It was most important to us that Mom and Dad would be there, and my sisters of course, she continued. They must have been enthusiastic about it, said Marylena, referring to Barry and Laura. Yes, if possible even more so than ourselves, replied Weldon, and we're both family sims! Especially Mom, pointed out Corinna. I almost feared that having three of her daughters marry within a very short period of time would prove too much for her, but apparently she survived. Marylena and Thomas both chuckled. You know, we parents are surprisingly durable when it comes to children marrying, Thomas said and winked.

After the wedding, things have pretty much gone back to normal, said Corinna then. You know, there's been the housework, studying for work, all that.

And the dogs of course need a lot of attention. Especially Leroy, now that he's gotten old and all. I've lost track, interjected Marylena, how many dogs are there? Three, replied Corinna, Thre's Leroy and Lulu, who are the elders, and Didi is their puppy whom we kept. Oh, I see. They must be a handful. Definitely. But well, what can I say? Mom and Dad just are into dogs that much, said Corinna. And we don't object, continued Weldon. Especially if there are puppies.

And then there's the garden of course. Mom especially loves working there, and I think she's getting quite good at it too, Corinna mentioned. Oh gardening is very relaxing, agreed Marylena. At our house, George takes care of the bulk of the work, and he's the master gardener, but I do like to help whenever I can.

Other than that, well, not that much. We've all got our jobs and that takes up a lot of time, concluded Weldon. Barry and Laura still both work? asked Thomas. Yes, said Corinna. They both enjoy what they do, and haven't felt the need to retire yet. Possibly they'll consider it a bit later, so that they can spend as much time with the grandkids as possible. But as of right now, their grandkids are only of the expected sort, so they've decided to keep working.

And judging by that belly, said Thomas, there's at least one of those to be expected. Well, as of right now, three minimum, said Corinna grinning. Calista and Chloe are also both expecting. Indeed, confirmed Marylena. We met them at Dirk's birthday party and they were already looking quite pregnant. Oh goodness, said Thomas to that. If it is possible for a family sim to burst out of too much happiness, I am quite worried about both Barry and Laura!

Over at another table, the bride and groom were sitting together with, among others, Thomas' spouse Bonnie, and were engaged in a rather exciting discussion. So he is an actual bigfoot? asked Cyrus. Wow, I didn't know those really existed. Calista, who was sitting next to him and listening intently, looked confused and perhaps slightly amused. I didn't expect you to be into bigfeet, Cyrus. I'd think a lot of sims, disregarding knowledge ones, would actually be scared of them. I know I'm a little bit worried, although the aspect of meeting someone new would be fun of course. Oh maybe it would be somewhat frightening to run into one in a dark forest, not knowing what exactly it is that you've run into, what's on their mind and how they'll react to you, pondered Cyrus aloud, But meeting an urbanized, friendly bigfoot might actually be quite interesting. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Calista is the second-oldest (alongside with her twin) of Barry and Laura Custer, second cousin to Cyrus and Cho. She is married to Joshua Ruben, a former SSU fraternity boy.

Well, Bruce certainly is the friendly type, said Bonnie to that. and he'd definitely be thrilled to meet new sims, he's very into that. Actually, one of the his reasons to move in with us, alongside with being able to work in a career that interested him, was that he was feeling a little lonely in the forests of Three Lakes, and Alphabetia would offer better opportunities for making friends. You know, you could even have brought him with you, said Chris, Meeting someone new is always a thrill for me too. Oh I know dear, thank you for the kind offer, said Bonnie smiling, We thought about asking if it'd be okay for him to come, but it felt that perhaps meeting the whole family at once would be a little overwhelming even for Bruce let alone for the family. Besides, someone had to stay and watch Spot. But I'm sure Bruce would be happy to meet you some less hectic time. That'd be great, replied Chris. But anyway, I think we were talking about something else entirely. Namely, what's up with you two, she continued gesturing towards the twin girls sitting at the other end of the table.

Okay, okay, said Calista, although I think Bruce might have been more interesting.Or whaddaya think, Ciff, you're a knowledge sim? she asked her cousin across the table. Oh Bruce is plenty interesting, he said but I do think we were talking about you guys. Well okay then. Chloe, you go first. Oh alright, Calista's twin mock-sighed. Just lemme get a little turkey first, this is delicious. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Chloe is Calistas twin, and therefore the second/third oldest daughter of Barry and Laura Custer. She's married to Ryker Lillard, who's a former SSU dormie and placeholder to the Bookacy Family Greek House Greek House. Cliff is the only child of Bill Thayer and Sandy Fairchild, and currently in college.

Well, we got married, started Chloe, smirking. That's the interesting bit I suppose. Some of you were there, of course, she said, nodding towards her twin, or well, as many of you as our tiny apartment could fit anyway. So you live in an apartment? asked Bonnie. Yeah, for the moment anyway. We'll see about it again later, when we've moved up in our careers a bit and accumulated some money, but for now it has enough space, and we should nicely fit even when the baby arrives, Chloe finished, gently patting her belly. I see, Bonnie nodded. Is the place far away? Not at all. Actually, it's in the same house where Bill and Sandy live. Oh, I didn't know that. Well, I might come for a visit the next time I come by to see my brother then. Warmly welcome.

Anyway, Chloe continued, thanks for the latest, it was a lot of fun. Any time, sister dear. If there's a party, I'm always around. But what have you been up to since? asked Calista.

Well, I've been getting to know the neighbors and so, now that I happen to have some time on my hands the doctor was of the opinion that I shouldn't work anymore, so I've been at home. Studying, the usual stuff.

Ryker's been stargazing a lot. He's read a lot of some recent UFO sightings and became interested. I've tried to tell him not to try to spot them at daytime, since to my understanding they are only properly visible during the night anyway, plus the neighbors might think he's spying on them or something. But does he listen? Of course not.

Other than that, there's not that much going on. We're trying to take it easy since I'm pregnant and all. No need to rush around now, finished Chloe, shrugging. Your turn. Calista looked around, dumbstruck. Oh, what's up with us. Okay then.

Well, me and Joshua moved into our own little place after graduation. It was affordable, and should be expandable should the need arise. Where is he now, by the way? asked Cliff, looking around. Oh I think he went inside to warm up a bit and use the bathroom. Probably some relative or other has cornered him by now, said Calista.

Anyway, we've entertained guests a couple of times, Clyde was over one time, and Carl came by right in the beginning. It's nice to have a place of one's own, and actually big enough to ask someone over if we feel like it. We've been enjoying that.

And I suppose for those who wouldn't otherwise know it or guess it, or who haven't had Mom squeal their ear off about it, yeah, we got engaged pretty soon after moving in. Joshua got me a very beautiful ring, too, Calista said, showing her engagement ring which had a rather large diamond on it.

The wedding was on the back yard, as soon as we could get to it. Couldn't keep Mom in anticipation much longer anyway. It was a very nice ceremony, I think. It was, confirmed Chloe.

The party afterwards definitely was fun, Calista continued. Except for some reason Joshua hasn't wanted to eat cake afterwards. Wonder why that is, commented Chloe, slightly rolling her eyes. It's a good thing cake overdose usually isn't lethal, said Bonnie with a smile, otherwise quite many of us would be dead right now.

Otherwise our life has been kinda quiet. Me and Chloe found out about our pregnancies about the same time. So me and Joshua and Chloe and Ryker have sort of all been expecting together. It's been good to share the experiences.

Not to mention confuse sims by wearing each other's usual colors in pregnancy outfits! said Chloe, and both the twins smirked.

The discussion continued to be lively, never ceasing as various sims got up and went to get another plate of the delicious turkey, or popped inside to warm up a little bit.

Oh, very nicely, very nicely indeed, thank you, Trevor it was, correct? was Aadam just saying in one of the tables. Joy and I are enjoying life, and we're both very proud of our two wonderful daughters. At this, both Aadam and Joy turned to beam at Barbara, who was sitting at the other end of the table. She looked a little bit embarassed, but didn't say anything. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Aadam and Joy Mendoza have twin daughters, Barbara and Beatrice, who are first cousins once removed to the current generation C of the main house. Barbara is married to Tara Mendoza (formerly Bertino), and Beatrice is in a long-time relationship with Brenda GilsCarbo, both former SSU dormies.

Life has been treating us well. I for one didn't exactly mind the peace and quiet when the girls were in college and it was just us two and Benny. Benny is our dog, Aadam added to Ryker, who was looking slightly confused opposite to Aadam.

But really, it's been great to have some more life at the house since Barbara and Tara moved in at the beginning of the autumn. The house was in pretty good condition and didn't need a major renovation, but it really did benefit from Tara's eye for colors when picking new wall-coverings and such. It's great how small changes can make a place feel brand new, Aadam said, gesturing towards his daughter-in-law.

Oh, I didn't know you've done interior designing, said Ryker to Tara, impressed. Well I wouldn't really call it that, Tara said, though she was blushing with pleasure, I've read a little bit about it on my spare time, and it was nice to put it to some use. Barbara smiled. I have such a talented wife, she said, squeezing Tara's hand.

Indeed you do, said Joy, nodding. What about you, mrs. Mendoza, asked Ryker, what have you been doing lately? Please, don't call me 'Mrs. Mendoza', it makes me feel so old, Joy said, smiled and dismissively waved her hand. You can call me Joy. Okay, mrs. I mean, Joy. Well, as for your question, lately I've been very interested in music. I've been working on my violin playing some, and I think the difference sounds. Suddenly Joy smiled. It's a hobby me and Benny both enjoy. Benny is a highly musical dog and likes to sing along when I play. This caused a burst of laughter in the listeners, who could easily imagine Benny the musical dog singing along to violin playing.

Aadam, on the other hand, has been working on his charisma. In fact, he's finally been able to fulfill his longtime wish to maximize all of his skills, now that he's studied also charisma to its full extent. I'm so very proud of him. Congratulations, that's a great achievement! said Trevor, clearly impressed.

Thank you, said Aadam, That was briefly before Barbara proposed to Tara, he said thoughtfully. It's a good thing I managed to complete that beforehands. It may have been difficult to concentrate on studying with the knowledge that there's a wedding coming up.

Joy laughed. Yes, well there was some fuss with the arranging of course, she said, although clearly not as much as in arranging this one, she said, gesturing towards the wedding decorations surrounding them. In the end, all went well, thank goodness.

And of course, we couldn't have been prouder or happier with Aadam.

Since then, we've found some kind of a daily routine again. Work, skill-building, music with Benny..., explained Joy. It's fairly quiet now that there's no grandchildren in the house yet. Ryker turned to look at Barbara and Tara. Yet? So you're considering adoption, then? Well, maybe at some point yes, said Tara, but actually...

Barbara spoke up: Actually, there might be a chance for us to have a biological child of our own. Oh. I didn't know that was possible, said Trevor. Well it isn't very well-known, explained Barbara, but apparently they've done it successfully in several places. Dad read something about when he was working in the Science career, and it seems it's possible. Now since he has his small home laboratorium, he's been reading up on the topic and trying to find out if it would be possible for me and Tara.

Ryker looked a little nervous. Umm... Aren't you worried something... something might go wrong? Then suddenly, he seemed to realize what he'd said, turned bright red and stuttered: I mean... No offense or anything... Aadam smiled. Oh don't worry, son, none taken. With my history in experiments especially, I believe that's a valid concern. Ryker was still embarassed. I really didn't think about... The unfortunate accident with Rebecca's resurrection, yes, I perfectly understand. I'm glad others have been able to forget, and most of all, forgive what happened back then. I've apologized to Rebecca herself for what must have been a thousand times, but she tells me to stop with 'the nonsense'. That notwithstanding, myself and Abraham made a grave mistake, one that will follow me till the end of my days. Aadam was quiet for a moment. However, the process of artificial impregnation is quite different from the one of resurrection, and cited by several sources to be risk-free.

Barbara nodded eagerly and filled in: Yeah, the worst case scenario is that it won't work and me and Tara won't be able to have a biological child after all. If that happens, we're putting our hope in adoption. According to what Bill has said, the process was relatively smooth for them, they got Claire without any big roadbumps. Yes, and even if we are able to have a biological baby the usual... erm, unusual way, added Tara, we might consider adoption later. We're both very grateful to Aadam for trying, whether it in the end succeeds or not.

So now, said Barbara, we concentrate on being happy the way things are, and wait for what's yet to come.

That's very nice to hear, said Trevor, smiling in the general direction of all the sims in his table. Oh, and if you don't mind, I'd be interested in the theoretical literature of artificial impregnation myself. I mean, from a scientific perspective, even if I'll never need it in practice. Oh, of course, said Aadam. Always happy to help out a fellow knowledge sim. Remind me later and I'll send you a few links on email. Thanks. Oh, and how is Beatrice by the way? I don't know her that well myself, but I'm sure Claire would like to know how she is.

Oh, just great, just great! said Aadam, beaming. She should be around her somewhere with her girlfriend, go say hi if you're able to find her here. Cool, we'll try, said Trevor. So she has her own place now, right?

Oh yes. She and Brenda, her girlfriend, found a really nice place that was in their price-range and not too far away. And they've done a very nice job making it their own, too. We've visited a couple of times and we're really impressed by how nice a home they've gotten for themselves.

That's very nice to hear. I think me and Claire have to pay a visit soon, too, said Trevor. What's otherwise going on with them? Well, as far as I know, they're both fairly busy with their jobs. There's a lot of skill-building to be done in the evenings.

I do think they're also taking the time to enjoy each others' company, pointed out Joy from the side. Which is of course great. Oh oh, I nearly forgot! Just recently, they've got themselves...

... an incredibly adorable puppy! Plenty of adoring voices were heard around the table. Oh yes, the puppy. Her name's Mimi by the way, said Aadam amused. Actually, Beatrice just told me last week, how Mimi likes watching TV. Watching TV? asked Ryker, surprised. Oh yeah, Suzi does that sometimes too, nodded Trevor. Yeah, watching TV. Beatrice said she'll sit there very very tight, focused...

... and if she or Brenda turn the TV off when it's watching, she'll whine at them miserably. That caused a burst of laughter in the listeners. Well nobody likes to have their favorite show interrupted! said Ryker, wiping his eyes. So yes, it seems to me that Beatrice and Brenda are doing quite nicely, concluded Aadam smiling.

Meanwhile, a couple of tables away. So you two are actually living quite close to us? asked Andrew from Clarissa after fetching another plate of salad from the buffet. Uh-huh... she replied looking over his shoulder, and apparently hadn't heard or registered the question.

Suddenly Clarissa jumped. Oh, I'm sorry, I was looking to see if Dad was over there, I haven't been able to catch him yet. Did you say something? she asked. That's alright. I was just asking you if I'm correct in that you live quite close to us. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Clarissa is the daughter of Bonnie and Thomas Thayer (twin to Clyde), and second cousin to Cho and Cyrus. She's long been in an open relationship with Glen Fuchs, who is, like many other significant others this generation, a former SSU dormie.

Oh. Yeah, yeah, actually we do. Across the road from Chip and Sunny's, Clarissa explained. Yes, yes, that's what I'd heard from Mehrissa, said Andrew. Yeah, me and Glen were looking for a place of our own after college, and it seemed nice enough and fit our budget.

It had enough space for our hobbies, the easel in one corner... And even a nice space for a telescope on the yard.

All in all it was just right for two, Clarissa finished. But is that enough? asked Connor from beside Andrew. I was under the impression... ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Connor is the youngest child of Bianca and Ramin Patch, and second cousin to the main line. He's currently attending college.

Oh, yeah, replied Clarissa, amused, yeah, we're actually three now. At that time, we got the house with two sims in mind, but pretty soon after we moved in, I noticed I had morning sickness. It was a surprise, but an altogether pleasant one, said Glen, who now spoke for the first time.

Yeah, confirmed Clarissa. We were wondering about it first, since, well... our relationship is not really the traditional kind, but...

... we talked about it, and really, what matters is that we both love Daniel, and he's going to have even more of a loving family around, so in the end, it'll be fine, Glen finished Clarissa's sentence. That's what your mother said, too, he continued and squeezed her shoulders. Cyrus spoke up. And she's right about that. Not everyone needs to go the same route, there's more than one way to happiness. That's something you can teach your child, too. Clarissa smiled a little and nodded. Yeah.

Well, anyway, I was getting increasingly pregnant of course. After the uncertainty at the beginning, I was quite enjoying it really. And Glen was taking such good care of me, she smiled.

Around that time we also met Bruce. Clyde had been talking about him on the phone so when he walked past our house, it was pretty impossible not to recognize him, said Clarissa then. Oh, you've met Bruce, said Cyrus. I just heard your Mom talk about him a whole lot. Oh yeah. Bruce is cool, confirmed Glen. It's no wonder the lot of them have been pretty excited to have him live with them. We invited him to stay for dinner, and it was a fun evening all around. We'll be sure to have him over again.

So it can't have been long since the baby was born, said Andrew. Yeah, replied Glen, only a couple of weeks. One night when I'd fallen asleep on the couch watching tv, I woke up to Clarissa's yelp of pain. For a moment I was all disoriented and didn't know what was going on, but luckily she... erm, brought me back to my senses pretty soon. Hey, I didn't even hit you, commented Clarissa, smiling.

So, now we are the proud parents of a little boy named Daniel. He's got his mother's eyes definitely, but apparently he has some of my looks, too. Oh that sounds wonderful, sighed Aurora happily. Congratulations! Do you happen to have any pictures with you? she asked eagerly. Funny you should ask, said Clarissa winking, and the happy chatter continued as she dove under the table to look for her purse.

The afternoon progressed further. Cliff caught Christa for a friendly game of red hands, while Chris, Mehrissa and Sandy had a discussion about the latest dress fashion. Others piled one more portion of food on thei plates, or simply sat down and enjoyed the heaters installed under the tables. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Christa is the fourth and youngest daughter of Barry and Laura Custer, currently attending Sim State University.

So, Bobby asked Bianca a little further, how are you adjusting to the new life?

Umm, adjusting? asked Bianca a little confused. To what? Well, to life with Carla and Kevin at home, of course. And, by the look of things, apparently also filling the house quite succesfully, Bobby replied, targeting Carla with a big-brotherly tease. Oh, yes, said Bianca and beamed at Bobby. Quite beautifully, actually. Thanks for asking. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Carla is the firstborn of Bianca and Ramin Patch, second cousin to the main line. She's married to Kevin Patch (Enriquez), another former SSU dormie.

We're quite enjoying the elderhood, me and Ramin, Bianca said. Really, it starts with a party, and then there are still quite many someone news to meet apparently these in-laws and grandbabies start to make their appearence at just about that time. We've been quite enjoying that. In our case, Ramin is a little bit older than I am, so his birthday was first.

That was a great party I have to say. We were both so happy that even Connor could make it from college. He's not that much of a party person himself, but still. It was great he made it.

And well, as you can see, said Bianca gesturing towards her husband, Ramin is quite handsome as an elder. I've no compaints there.

I wasn't far behind myself, of course, said Bianca. But having seen Ramin do it first, I knew it wouldn't be too bad.

And you aren't a bad-looking old lady yourself, teased Ramin and pecked Bianca on the cheek. Oh! said Bobby suddenly, Just remembered. Do you still have Dolores?

Oh yeah, we still have Dolores. She's quite likeable once you get past the intimidating appearence, said Carla. And don't try to grab the cake, said Kevin, who was perhaps not as certain about Dolores' likeability as Carla was. Yeah, and don't try to grab the cake, confirmed Ramin.

After Mom's birthday, me and Kevin had a little bit of a surprise. Turned out I was pregnant.

And at that point, I proposed, Kevin continued. We were at that time debating whether we should hurry or postpone the wedding, since we had been planning on getting married since college anyway. In the end, we decided to hurry it a bit, since we figured it might be difficult to find the time to have such a big party after the baby arrived.

And a big party it really was, said Ramin. Yeah, I remember that one, said Bobby smiling. It was a lot of fun.

Well, if the party was big, so was the bride, said Carla to that. Mom was worried I might go into labor during the party, so close I was. I was a little tired but all in all things went just fine.

Oh yes indeed it did, dear, said Bianca. The guests seemed happy, and the food and the cake was delicious. And, you didn't go into labor during the party.

No, I didn't. Only the night after, Carla said and grinned. Wow, then that was a tight schedule, remarked The Other Bill from the end of the table. It really was, said Carla.

But all went well in the end, and so little Darren was born. In the middle of the night.

We're all very happy about that of course, said Ramin. It's been very exciting for me and Bianca especially to meet our first grandchild. And in turn, me and Carla are happy to have some help around, added Kevin. It's really a relief.

Yeah, absolutely, said Carla. That's been very important since me and Kevin both have our jobs and all. If it wasn't for Mom and Dad helping with Darren, I definitely wouldn't have topped my career this fast. Oh, you've already made it to the top? asked Bobby. Which career? Athletic. Like I've always wanted to, beamed Carla. Congratulations! Thanks.

Other than that, we've just been trying to take it as easy as possible, and to spend time together, said Bianca. Even when everybody is busy, with jobs, with taking care of Darren, all that, we try to have at least one meal a day together, so we get to talk about our days and relax for a little bit.

For especially Carla that's very important of course; as you can see, she's pregnant again.

Over at a table further back, Beth and Sean had just loaded their plates with food and sat down. I'm so glad you could make it, said Cho to her aunt. I must have missed you guys earlier. Well we've been here for a while, but we were indeed a bit late, Sean replied in her stead. We had a bit of a fuss earlier, but luckily that's settled now, and we're here. It was lucky for us that the ceremony is only in the evening, he added.

Oh, I hope it's nothing serious? asked Marylena from Cho's right. They both looked concerned. No, not at all... Just a... small work-related thing I needed to take care of, said Sean, with a hint of hesitation in his voice. Nothing to worry about. Well, that's good to hear, replied Marylena. Hey, is Carl here? Cho asked. I haven't heard from him for a while, it'd be nice to... Oh yes, he should be here, he was running a bit late with... But I think he should be here at right about these times. Right then, there was a familiar voice asking: Did I hear someone miss me?

Carl had suddenly appeared behind the table while the others were engaged in discussion, and was now grinning at them. Carl! squealed Cho with delight. Good to see you! Good to see you too, cousin, said Carl. Hey listen, are these seats free? he asked, pointed at the two empty chairs. Yes, honey, it'd be great if you could join us. Alright then, be right back! Carl announced and dashed away again. Wow he's energetic, isn't he? asked Cho, puzzled. Oh yeah, he's been like that for a while, Beth said, smiling a little mysteriously.

A few moments later, Carl was back, walking a blonde young woman, who was obviously pregnant. He then helped her sit down on one of the vacant chairs and made the introductions. Aunt Marylena, I don't believe you've met, Cho, I think you have, my girlfriend Veronica GilsCarbo. Veronica, this is my aunt Marylena. And that's my cousin Cho. Nice to meet you, Veronica smiled at Marylena, Hi, yeah I remember you from college, she said to Cho. Hi Beth and Sean, she then said to Carl's parents.

When the introductions were done, Cho had expected Carl to sit down beside Veronica, but instead he quickly pecked her on the cheeck, said see you in a minute and disappeared again. Beth and Sean didn't seem the least surprised, and Beth merely asked: How are you feeling now, Veronica? Oh much better, thanks. The rest really did wonders. She turned to Cho and Marylena and explained: I was feeling a little nauseous in the morning, but I went to lay down for a bit and now I'm again feeling much better.

So how far along are you? asked Cho. It's no wonder I haven't heard from Carl lately, he must have been fussing around you like mad!

Third trimester. The doctor was unsure about letting me go anymore, but in the end said it's okay if I take it easy and if I feel too tired then go to rest. Chris said it'd be okay if I went inside to rest if I felt like it so we decided I could come. Congratulations! said Marylena and Cho in unison. Thanks, said Veronica with a smile. I'm pretty excited. That would also explain... started Marylena.

... why we haven't really heard from you two, either. With a grandchild on the way, I can imagine you must be running like chicken with their heads cut off. Oh you don't know half of it, said Beth with an air of dry amusement. Yeah, we've been pretty busy, said Sean, first there's been the move and... Ahem, said a voice from Beth's side.

Cho and Marylena turned to look to the voice's direction, and saw Carl, with a black-haired young woman, also obviously pregnant. Carl grinned widely and said: May I introduce you to my girlfriend Audrey London. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Carl is, as you may remember or have deduced by now, the only child of Beth and Sean Cameron, and first cousin to Cho and Cyrus. He's in a long-time relationship with Veronica GilsCarbo and Audrey London, both former SSU dormies.

Both Cho and Marylena were speechless. Meanwhile, Carl continued to grin and would have helped Audrey to sit down, too, but she said Shush, I can manage, and pulled a chair for herself. When Cho and Marylena continued to be speechless, all the five others burst to laughter. I told, you, Carl, this was a great idea, said Beth, wiping her eyes. Yep, the looks are totally worth it, said Carl. Everyone, this is Audrey, said Sean, smiling widely. Carl's girlfriend, as he said. Audrey, this is Carl's aunt, Marylena, and his cousin, Cho. Nice to meet you, said Audrey, extending a hand to Marylena, who shook it. I remember you, hi, she said to Cho.

At that moment, Chris had apparently noticed that Carl and his ladies had arrived, and rushed to greet him. Hi, Carl, so glad you could make it! Me too, me too, Chris, said Carl smiling. Chris the looked in Veronica and Audrey's direction. And congratulations. You must be excited!

Thanks. Yeah, we all are, he replied. And I think there's reason to congratulate you too today, but I'll save that for later. Heh, okay, laughed Chris. Now if you'll excuse me, I think I'd better listen to what's being said about me there, Carl said and pointed at the table, where a bubbling discussion was beginning to take place.

... yeah, I remember you both from college, Cho seemed to be just saying, both of you were hanging around quite often, but I didn't know... what he'd do about things when he grew up. Well, neither did we, said Veronica. And actually, we were both a little worried with Audrey. We knew there was some pressure on Carl, real and imagined. The kind of pressure that he should pick one sim with whom he'll be able to live happily ever after. And we thought, maybe he'll try to live up to that, you know, follow some crazy ideal. Cho made a small, amused snort. Yeah, I don't know who on Earth would do that sort of thing. Marylena squeezed her daughter's hand, Carl smiled at his cousin. Well, I didn't know myself in the beginning, either, he admitted. And I was pretty damn confused. I pondered and pondered, and couldn't get to any result. I'd been dating two girls all the way in college, they both knew about the situation and apparently didn't mind. Still, I found myself wondering 'which girl is the one that I love?' and all that. Until well, one evening at college when I spoke to Mom.

Carl reached out to squeeze Beth's hand. We'd talked about it for some time, and that evening she simply asked me the obvious question: why should it be so that I can only love either Audrey or Veronica? Carl drew breath. That clicked for me. I was trying to find an answer to a question that had no answer. So then my next step was clear: I called both the girls, and asked to meet them, with the three of us. I was a little worried what they might think, but I knew what I felt and wanted to say it. I said I loved them both, and didn't want to part ways with either after college. And found out both were actually happy about that. So that's how we came up with the plan to live together, all three of us, after college. That seemed to suit us perfectly, said Audrey. I don't know if you find this weird from your perspective, but me and Veronica have never really been jealous of each other. We didn't really know each other well in the beginning, but have come to over all this time, and found we actually like each other and come along just great. So, for each of us, the idea of living together meant the idea of living together with two sims with whom we came along great. It was a no-brainer really.

Yeah, said Carl. That's not the whole story though. You see, me and Sean had started to realize that Carl wouldn't be moving back home with us after college, especially when we heard from him his plans on moving in together with Audrey and Veronica. Our house was small, and it wasn't easily expandable. That was fine of course, but perhaps we felt a little lonely when thinking about the possibility of spending our twilight years in that small house, just the two of us. Sean spoke up. It all took a while. I have to admit that when I heard from Beth what Carl's plans were, I was dumbstruck to say the least. Don't get me wrong, I never disapproved of my son or either of the girls, I just..., he laughed, didn't know one could do that. But in time he got used to the idea, like I knew he would, said Beth. And she might have had something to do with that, Sean added with a small smile.

So when Carl did move in together with Audrey and Veronica, and found a nice place that was affordable as well as big enough and expandable in the future, me and Sean started considering things. We were tossing around the possibility of us moving in with the three of them in the future, but definitely not right away. We did have some serious discussions about it with the kids but... Kids, Carl sneered quietly. Well from my perspective... said Beth smiling and shrugged. Anyway, as I was saying, we had some fairly serious discussions but weren't really planning on doing anything as of yet.

That was until we found out I was pregnant, said Veronica smiling. That sort of changed things a bit. Definitely, said Sean. Suddenly the thought of being close to a grandchild was not something that might be of consideration some day, but something that we actually wanted to happen, in the current situation. And I suppose the same thing happened to the idea of having help around the house, too, he grinned.

So that's when the idea of us moving in suddenly became a lot more concrete, Beth said. We started planning on it in earnest, and preparing. There was a lot of other things to take care of, too. The house was expandable, but it wasn't really planned for kids, so there was some work to get things set up. Mom and Dad helped us get a nursery set up, explained Carl. Now it's all ready and looks quite nice. Yeah, it's beautiful, agreed Audrey. We also set up an extra bedroom for ourselves, plus some additional work here and there, said Sean.

So then, everything was just about settled, and we made the final decision of selling our old house and moving in with the kids. That's been such a great decision, things couldn't have ended up better, said Beth. So we packed up our stuff, and managed the move.

And just in time too, said Audrey, amused. You see, shortly after Beth and Sean moved in with us, we discovered that I was pregnant as well. Apparently Veronica is a bit ahead of me, but not by much. Carl grinned. You can imagine I nearly fainted when I heard that! he joked, but clearly he was bursting with happiness and pride. Both Cho and Marylena congratulated the trio again. After a moment of hesitation, Cho said: I hope you don't mind me asking... um... aren't you worried about jealousy issues at all?

Well, I suppose a little bit, said Audrey, and Veronica nodded. Luckily, it hasn't really been a huge thing previously, so we don't assume it will be in the future either. It's just... We're all very comfortable with the deal we have now, and we're all very close. If there's some change in feelings on someone's side, I'd think and hope we're open enough to talk about it. Yeah, said Veronica. If any one of us wants to 'discuss the conditions' then we've agreed that we can always discuss. We all try to be as respectful towards each other as we can, hopefully that'll settle any bigger arguments. And just in case there is an issue, finished Carl, Mom has taken up gardening again. She's read that there's an excellent recipe with strawberries that works well with soothing raging feelings. Dunno if that works, but we like to be prepared.

So right now, everything's just great and we're all happy about the situation, said Carl. We have a nice house that's well prepared for the future and we all come along nicely. So now we're done with most of the fuss, and just waiting for the big days, which should probably not be too far apart. We're incredibly excited, Sean finished. I bet, said Cho, beaming at the whole Cameron family. Actually, I'm too. I'm already thinking of how we could arrange playdates for the kids and... That's a wonderful idea, said Marylena and smiled. Although I think we have to wait a bit until we get to that point. Probably, laughed Carl. But in the mean time, I think we need to invite you to dinner with us some time. With us excited grandparents and George, I suppose a babysitting arrangement can be made, said Beth smiling. That sounds like a great idea.

The chatter went on all around the yard, and the conditions were optimal. It was dry, and warm for a winter day. Well, that's an interesting point, Cyrus. In all of my political career, I haven't come across to such a case, but I assume it would be possible and if so...

... and we found him nearly frozen next to the bubble blower! Oh my goodness! Was he okay? Sure, nothing that a hot chocolate and a slice of pizza wouldn't fix. But that party was epic! One, two, testing... Did you say something, Laura? What? No, nothing at all, nothing at all, just... thinking aloud. Clarissa's story reminds me, Marylena, have I told you about that one time when...

But in fact, friendly chatter and excess eating was not all that was going on that afternoon, and Laura was well aware of that. One, two, one two. Operation White Dove, come on in. Can everybody hear me? Positive. Positive. Yes. Can't talk, listening. Listening. Sean heard a reply one after another in his earphone. Good. Now listen carefully. While it's unlikely that the target would show during the day, due to his condition, we can't take any risks. He might send someone else in his stead. So we do the watch shifts as planned, and everyone will report on anything or anyone unusual. This is a big wedding and a stranger could easily go unnoticed. So keep your eyes peeled, something's bound to happen. Report to me on regular intervals. Commence operation White Dove.

Meanwhile, a few tables apart, there was a discussion going on about the recent events in the Phillips family. Well not too bad, not too bad, Bill, Andrew was just saying. We're quite enjoying it, in fact.

First me and Aurora have gotten to experience the proud moment of our son getting married. That was very very beautiful. I know the feeling, said Bill smiling. You're his high-school sweetheart, aren't you Mehrissa? Mehrissa nodded. Yeah, we've been together since teenage, and have been happy about it every single day. That's something quite rare you've got there. Hold on to it. Mehrissa smiled. We'll try our best. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Bobby is the only child of Aurora and Andrew Phillips, and thus first cousin once removed to Cho and Cyrus. He's married to Mehrissa Phillips (previously Tang), who used to be a teen downtownie.

The wedding was a while ago, Bobby and Mehrissa were among the oldest and so the earliest to graduate. And they wanted to get things moving, before the majority of the youngsters were coming back home and settling down. And well, that guaranteed a nice attendance, when there weren't so many other weddings queued up at that time.

I retired around that time. I decided I'd spent enough time in the rat race. I've been an elder for quite a while, and I want to concentrate on spending time with Bobby and Mehrissa, said Andrew.

And well, soon we got to know that there'd be someone new to spend time with, as we found out Mehrissa was pregnant.

Has Aurora retired yet? asked Bill then. Well, she only had one of those part time jobs for elders at that time, but since then she's left that behind too. We're now both concentrating on the family. Each other, the kids and the grandkids. And of course Billy the cat. He's been quite attention-hungry as of late.

We were all very excited when little Camilla was born.

For me and Aurora she's our first grandchild, so we're thrilled. We're already planning to take a trip with her some time when she's a little older, maybe to Twikkii Island. But for now of course, very basic things are taking care of any free time issues, Andrew said. Oh, I think I have a picture in my wallet! After Bill had gone through a sufficient amount of aah and ooh and what was not one but in fact seven pictures of Camilla, Andrew went on:

I think it's been the biggest emotional experience for Bobby. When Camilla was born, he was literally speechless from emotion. It is a big moment, agreed Bill. Has he recovered since? Andrew laughed. Well I think so. I believe he's very much enjoying being a Daddy. Absolutely, said Mehrissa. He's even quite happily on diaper duty.

So apparently you're doing quite well, then, said Bill. Quite, said Andrew happily. When we had our golden anniversary a few weeks ago, me and Aurora both said the same thing. We're one of those couples. Those couples? Yes. Those couples who've been together practically all their lives, and wouldn't change a day.

... and that's when I said: 'Well technically we do have a vampire in the house, so I can't guarantee that we won't bite. That look on his face, haha! I'll never forget it!' Yeah, hah, that look was worth at least five simoleans!

... so yeah, that's how he met Laura Chun. I think they've been going out pretty regularly. Oh my, so my baby brother has a girlfriend! ... and he'll likely kill me for mentioning it to you, since you didn't apparently know already. What Connor doesn't know, can't hurt Cliff, right?

A little later, while Carla and Cliff were still talking about Connor's love life, Bobby and his half-finished turkey found a vacant spot next to Bill. Hey, Bill, how's it going?

Well, you know, as I was just saying to Ramin, being an elder isn't too bad really, Bill said. Me and Sandy are completely of that opinion. It isn't that long since you had your birthday, right? ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Bill Thayer is a first cousin once removed to the current main line, and the secondborn of Arthur and Meadow Thayer. He's in a long-time relationship with Sandy Fairchild, and their only child, Cliff, is second cousin to Cho and Cyrus. Cliff is currently in college.

No, not long at all. In fact, it's only been a couple of weeks. Life's been pretty quiet now that Cliff is in college, and it's just me, Sandy and the cat. Don't get me wrong, it's cool, but we were quite happy to have some action in the form of a birthday party.

And some party that was! We had a great time. Not sure if the neighbors appreciated all of it, though, Bill laughed.

The cake was great too. But really, it wasn't even the most important thing.

Really, being together with Sandy, together with Cliff, together with our friends was the most important thing.

Growing old was secondary, and it wasn't that bad either.

Meanwhile, in yet another table. Well I'm currently not yet in the Criminal Career, but I'm looking into openings. From my experience, I can quite recommend it. Sure, under some bosses there might be a chance for a quarrel, but isn't that true for any career?

... and it was awesome! Really, everyone at the party joined in the smustle, and there was barely room to move. You should have seen it. Yeah, I can imagine it must have been quite a sight. We once had something similar at the Greek House when...

Calling operation White Dove. Everything calm by the buffet table. No sight of the target. Nothing suspicious to report. Over.

... and that's what I was saying to him, but he just insisted that for this chance card the first option would always be favorable. Even though we have a co-worker who lost quite a significant amount of simoleans through it, Erik was explaining to Cissy, and Kevin was listening intently, when Chip and Bobby sat down at their table. Hey, you two lovebirds, greeted Chip. How's my favorite sister? ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Cissy is the secondborn of Marsha and Bailey Bruenig, sister to Chip and second cousin to Cho and Cyrus. She's married to Erik Swain, who is a former SSU bin sim.

Oh, hi, Chip, said Cissy. Hi Bobby. Oh, hi there, said Erik. I'm sorry, Kevin, I got a bit carried away with the work talk. he smiled apologetically. That must have been boring. No, no, it's fine! laughed Kevin. I was listening with great curiosity. I think someone at work said she'd had a similar experience. After a moment of silence, Chip asked: So, sis, what's new at home? Oh, nothing much, since you were at the wedding and all... started Cissy. Bobby caught that. Ah, so you've gotten married as well? Congratulations. Thank you, said Cissy and Erik happily. Was that long ago? Not very, said Marsha who was passing by and stopped to listen. We had all kinds of things to do before the wedding so it took a while to get to it.

First we had a kind of a biggish renovation when me and Erik moved in. There's a lot more space now, explained Cissy. Yeah, said Chip. And they have a giant aquarium. It's quite awesome. And we have a giant aquarium, confirmed Marsha.

Alegra loves that as well, said Cissy, amused. She can sit and watch it for amazing lengths of time. Alegra? asked Bobby. My cat. We've had her since I was a teenager. Oh, I see. Aren't you afraid she's interested in eating the fish or something? Cissy laughed. Well she probably is, but you should see the aquarium really. It's basically ceilingheight and closed at the top, so it's completely cat proof.

So after the renovation was done, we wanted to relax a bit, and me and Bailey wanted to get to know Erik better. Of course we'd met him already when they were dating in college, but still, it's a different thing when you're living together with someone.

And then there was work and all the usual of course.

There was apparently also some rule that me and Bailey had to get old, said Marsha with a wry smile, so of course a party was in order.

I hope that everyone enjoyed themselves, I know I had fun. It was great to see everyone and catch up, if only a little bit.

Well I'd say it's a sign of a good party when the cops show up to break it up, noted Cissy. Marsha laughed. I guess you're right. If that's any indication, then we all had fun.

And in the process, me and Bailey got old.

That got us quite excited over the events that'd then be happening soon.

Yeah, once the birthday was over with, explained Erik, there was time to concentrate on arranging the wedding.

Did you have a big wedding? asked Bobby. Well, not compared to some of the other ones there have been in the family recently, certainly not compared to this one, said Cissy. There were a few friends of us both, and the closest family, but that was just about it. It's really Mom who's the biggest party-animal of us.

Well, it was a nice wedding either way, said Marsha. We were thrilled with Bailey.

And the cake was very good, noted Chip. The best cake I've had in a while. Uh-huh, said Erik. And the best part was to be fed the cake by my new wife.

So other than that, life's been pretty calm and quiet with us, said Cissy. After all that party fuss it's been nice getting back to regular life, work and hobbies.

Situation calm by the wedding arch. No suspicious movement in sight. Over. Copy that.

That sounds very nice, said Kevin. There's been a lot of happenings going on lately, and it's good to get a bit of a break afterwards. We've been trying to catch our breath with Carla a little too, and thankfully Bianca and Ramin have been very helpful with Darren so that's been to some extent possible. I can't wait to get to that point, noted Marsha with her eyes twinkling. Mom! No pressure, dearie! But you already have one grandchild to dote on, don't you? asked Bobby.

Yes, she does, confirmed Chip. Little Damien totally loves spending time with Granny, he said proudly. So how old is he now? He recently had his toddler birthday. It was shortly after we moved back to Alphabetia that Sunny started to have morning sickness and we suspected she might be pregnant. The maid didn't exactly appreciate the mess, or rather that right after she got the bathroom cleaned, Sunny felt sick again. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Chip is the firstborn of Marsha and Bailey Bruenig, and like his sister, second cousin to the main line. He's married to Sunny Hamilton, a former SSU dormie.

So her pregnancy was rough? asked Kevin sympaethically. Well the beginning was somewhat tough, yeah, replied Chip, She was often tired and then there was the nausea. But it got better as the pregnancy progressed, thankfully.

So at that point I figured I should probably get down on one knee and pop the question, if we wanted to get the wedding thing done before the baby arrived. Kevin nodded. Yeah, exactly the same with me and Carla. It was either right away or substantially later, so we went with right away. Yep. So despite some suspicions some sims might have had, I did propose and Sunny did say yes, Chip said, glancing at Marsha amused. Oh I never doubted it, Marsha said, equally amused. I knew it might take you some time, but me, like everyone, knew you'd eventually decide to settle down. With Sunny, of course.

The ceremony was a bit tough on Sunny's back but otherwise everything went well. Very nicely, agreed Cissy. Even the weather was brilliantly beautiful then.

Well everything, corrected Chip himself, except maybe the fact that I got a half a plate of cake shoved into my face at once. But it was done with love, so it's all good.

And it was good to see everyone, too. I really enjoyed it.

Sunny said you also enjoyed spreading feathers all across the kitchen, Cissy noted, amused. Well if a favorite cousin of mine one of many of course proposes a pillow fight at my wedding, how am I to say no?

So Damien was born pretty soon after the wedding, I think? asked Bobby. Yeah, Sunny was pretty heavily pregnant at that point so we knew it could be any time then. And well, soon it was time.

Here's a picture of Damien as a baby, Chip showed proudly. He's got my eyes as you can see. Well, I'd say that those are my eyes, said Marsha with those very same bright green eyes twinkling, but I suppose we're technically both right.

With all of you around, said Bobby, gesturing towards the various Bruenig family members, I imagine Damien's been quite the center of attention.

Oh yeah, said Chip, amused. With all these eager diaper-changers and bathers it's a wonder the poor kid got any sleep in his infancy.

Of course, with the constant line at Damien's crib, it meant that I was able to pay some attention to work matters, Chip said more seriously. And that paid off quite nicely. He got promoted to Criminal Mastermind some time ago, added Marsha beaming. That was quite an achievement from someone as young as Chip is.

Well yeah, that was nice, admitted Chip. Though not as nice as being able to be there for Damien's birthday was. It was really good I got that night off. Well as Criminal Mastermind I suppose you are kind of your own boss, said Cissy. I guess. I'm not quite used to that situation yet.

Well, anyway, here's a more recent picture of Damien. Aww look at him, said Cissy. Let's go meet Damien again soon, Erik, please? Sure we will, said Erik. Welcome. Damien's all for playmates I'm sure. And it might just be that you'll get to see him walk when you come, he's clearly getting very close.

... oh, so then you must be Joshua, Calista's husband, right? Yes, yes indeed I am. I'm Beth, I'm cousin to Calista's father. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you too. So you're Barry's first cousin? Yes. I wonder what that makes you to Calista, then? I think that'd be first cousin once removed. Ah, probably. Yes, yes because Baudolino...

... arrange a party together, you know, for old times sake. Invite all the good old gang, from the college times, have some pizza... Wow, that's such a great idea! I'm totally in!

Calling operation White Dove. Nothing suspicious to report by the end of the hedge. All is calm. Over.

And yet a while later. ... so I'm pretty sure she should be promoted any day now. But how about you guys? Mom said she heard you got a puppy recently. Oh yeah we did. Her name is Mimi and she's quite sweet. Want to come over some time to meet her? Sure thing, I think Chris would love that too. Only... does she bite?

Nah, she's just a tiny puppy, doesn't even have proper teeth yet. '... but wait until she grows a little', or? Hahaha, yeah! And little by little, the afternoon passed, and the evening and the official programme came closer.

The sun has set. Yeah. Nervous? I don't know. I can't quite pin down what it is that I'm feeling right now. Understandable. Do you... Do you think he'll come? Oh yes. He will come. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ And that, dear reader, marks the end of Chapter 35 in the Bookacy Family Alphabet Adventures. But fear not, this is in fact a double update, and the second part can be found at a Dreamwidth near you. See you there!

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