The Grove Legacy: Books, Cowplant, and Promotions-Oh my! Ch. 5

Greetings Dear Readers and Welcome back to my blog/story! Some of my musings may go into book form. For now, It’s excellent practice and a kind of reprieve for me when I don’t feel like just pure grinding my way into the literary world. (yes, writing when burned out from writing may seem counterintuitive, but it’s how I cope apparently.) I’ve been promoted to Advice Columnist (lv. 4). Wow! I can’t believe I’ve already gotten this far!

My second book that I’ve published was “Ode to Fishing.” It’s an anthology on what fishing has meant to me for most of my life. My third book was “My Squeamish Geek” about my beloved. I’ll keep that one to myself for now-maybe forever. Lucy had asked me if she should go for the Librarian promotion and I said, “Of course! You’ve earned it!” I’m pleased to announce that she did get the promotion! :D

Sean had asked me out to the Solar Flare Lounge the other evening, but I’d turned him down since I was so backlogged with writing stuff. I decided to make it up to him by asking him out to Magnolia Blossom Park during the wee hours of the morning on the 14th day. He agreed and we had a spectacular time!

However, I do have to admit that he’s better at chess than me. I used to be the chess champion of my family. The night was so perfect that it didn’t really seem to matter though. (I’m told that I’m usually a fiercely competitive game player.)

When I got home, I completed my 4th book: “My Heart’s Wish.” It’s the more socially appropriate version of “My Heart’s Desire.” I don’t really care about the fame so much, but hope to make a living off this career as long as possible. And writing’s in my veins! Not sure how though, since no one else in my family has a penchant for it…

I went back to the gym and was trained by Miguel Schwartz. He really knows his stuff! Also pictured here from left to right: Bella Goth, Jay Hunington III, and Eliza Pancakes who is obscured by Jay walking by. I finally got to meet the famous Bella Goth. I wasn’t as star-struck as I thought I’d be. She’s kind of a hometown celebrity between the 3 towns: Willow Creek, Oasis Springs, and the newly founded Newcrest. I am currently the only resident in Newcrest. I love it even though it feels daunting at times. My deepest wish is that it becomes a thriving haven for many someday. <3

I caught the legendary Cowplant Berry! I’ve heard all the outlandish tall tales of them growing up and eating people, but I’d yet the see one-let alone have one one-of my very own! I can’t wait to go home and plant it!

When I got home, Eliza Pancakes happened to be walking by (proceeded by Summer whom I ignored.) I do need to make more friends, so I happily introduced myself to her.

She even took it upon herself to clean my Herbalism grill. I thought it was odd at first, but who am I to deny her the *joy* of cleaning.

Here goes! The Cowplant Berry has been planted. I feel really foolish doing this however… It’s probably going to be as disappointing as those little spongy dinosaurs that barely puff up after the water’s been applied to them… Just for giggles, I’ll name it, “Chompy.” May you forever reign Chompy the Vicious! (Oooo more ideas for my next books!) End Day 14.

Tanvi stopped by and I couldn’t resist this photo opportunity! She says things are going well back at her little shack in the Deep Woods. That’s nice. She’s also taught me quite a few recipes. I worry about her need to obsessively make several liniments and leave them scattered around all the grills in the neighborhood though…

My eyes deceive me! It’s true! They do grow up! Chompy is already a sapling after just one day! They even seem to sway and move a bit… I’m a little worried now to be honest but I refuse to kill or get rid of them. I find myself talking to Chompy as if they were another sim…

Before I turned in for night 15, I called Sean up and invited him camping at Granite Falls with me. He told me he’s a collector and there are plently of rocks and dig spots for him to discover new treasures at. He even mentioned something about learning the guitar which sound awesome!

We started our first trip together early on the morning of Day 19.

On Day 16, I published kid’s book, “Don’t Poke the Will O’ the Wisp” and was promoted to Regular Contributer (5).

Day 17 was more work…

Day 18: I was promoted to Short Story Writer (6) and officially chose the Writer Career Track (as opposed to the Journalism route.)

Sean and Me discussed his career options. He wanted my advice on whether or not to have a career. While I encouraged it, I told him he’d have to pick that career on his own. He decided on the Journalism track of the writing career. (uh-oh competition! But not really since they’re almost like different worlds.)

Stay tuned for next time as Sean and Me go on our first trip together for three days! I think we’ll stay in a cabin because of his squeamishness, but should still be fun even though we’re ::sigh:: glamping…

Thanks to all for stopping by and Happy Simming!

The Grove Legacy: That’s Amore! Ch. 4

Greetings and welcome back! Thank you so much for joining me on my journey. Without further adieu, let’s dive into the latest happenings of the society newsletter: Nancy and Geoffrey Landgraab had a baby named Tomas. The Parikh’s had a baby named Latasha (The Diwali Household by Maxis.) And the Goth’s had a baby named Kassidy! I really should form a welcome wagon of some kind… It’s been quite the whirlwind for me these last few days! And a hearty congratulations to all the new parents in Oasis Springs and Willow Creek!

So about 9:30-ish this morning, I was playing chess with Lacy and my heart skipped a beat as I looked out the window. There it was-the rare copy of The Songbird’s Plight! The man who was holding it was easy on the eyes too! I excused myself from our game and rushed after him like a madwoman.

“Sir! Sir! Excuse me!” He quickened his pace before looking over his shoulder at me.

After a moment’s consideration (and what felt like forever), he turned around and addressed me.

“Oh hi. How can I help you?” he asked.

“You have Songbird’s Plight?!” I blurted. (Oh Watcher Why?!)

“It’s actually Songbird’s Melody but just as good!”

After that monumentally embarrassing exchange, we fell into an easy conversation and exchanged information. His name is Sean Arcadia. It all felt like a fever dream. He loves the outdoors AND is a bookworm! What luck! I don’t even care what other traits he has… well, I do but I’m eager to see where this goes! <3

Sean and Me had our date later that afternoon when I got off work. I was promoted to Freelance Article Writer which doubled my excitement! Turns out he’s a Geek and a Bookworm! He seemed kind of hesitant about the outdoors… After connecting for hours, I got up the nerve to kiss him! I’m glad the feeling was mutual. <3 <3 <3

I invited him back to my place to give him a tour-of the house…

…But it may have turned into more than that. I figured that I might as well get some work done. It’s kind of harder to stay motivated at work when I can accept any job I want!

Day 10: I published my first book! It’s an exhaustive encyclopedia on fireflies. Naturally, my research on all varieties-along with my blood, sweat, and tears went into it! OK… maybe not my blood, but you get the gist! Huzzah!

I also read in today’s newsletter that the Brown family had baby Rhea. (The Cute Family by Grams_McHams.)

Lacy and Me. It’s safe to say we’re becoming close friends. The Writer and the Librarian-watch out world! (What we’re watching out for I don’t know but still!)

Day 11: The Pancakes had baby Randolph, I believe? Sorry, my mind’s in a million directions at the moment! (Feel free to correct me if I’m wrong Eliza!)

Woo… I caught an upgrade part. After attempting to fix my toilet the other day, I’ve decided I loathe handiness. I’m the black sheep of my family in that regard. I do believe my Mom’s currently working on a whole furniture set at the moment. (Hi Mom!!!)

Day 12: Had Sean over for dinner. I made some more of my now perfected Veggie Dumplings. He seemed to enjoy them-or he’s too polite, but I’ll take it. He didn’t really seem to keen on my Frog, Elsie though… She’d croak and he looked like he’s trying to hold back vomit.

…

“Not a fan of frogs?” I queried.

He let out a deep sigh. “Oh Watcher no! I’m sorry, I should’ve mentioned it the other day but I was so charmed by you… I can… go somewhere else.”

So he’s squeamish. I felt torn but decided to put Elsie elsewhere for the time being. I hope he doesn’t expect me to get rid of them though…

“Oh no! Not at all, I’ve been wanting to build a better enclosure for her anyway and the kitchen table isn’t the best place in retrospect. Lemme move her.” Our first compromise?

Here’s the humble beginnings of my apple orchard! So excited!

…And also, voila! Here’s my garden. I’ve been harvesting things around the neighborhood. Newcrest is a lovely clean slate-my lovely clean slate for the time being. A legacy garden is exactly what this property needs!

Found it: The proof of my struggles with the toilet. Never again! I’ll likely hire a repair-sim, but this is definitely not one of those acquired skills for me!

Here I am making Deodorizing Cream. The recipe calls for 1 elderberry, 1 strawberry, and 2 parsley. It’s primarily used for hygiene-could come in handy in a pinch!

I’ve been feeling a bit sluggish lately, so I decided to check out the Movers and Shakers Gym in Willow Creek. Normally, I prefer I nice jog outdoors, but this works too. This was another picture I’d meant to post earlier in this entry, but dog-gone it, I’m tired! I’m sure you can relate. I still have 3 project deadlines looming but at least I feel more invigorated and up to the task!

Stay tuned for next time and as always: I appreciate you spending time in my neck of the woods.

Happy Simming!

The Grove Legacy: Granite Falls Ch. 3

Hi all and welcome back to my blog! I spent 3 days at Granite Falls for the first time since I was a kid and it was pure awesomeness! I’ve skipped days 3 to six because they were largely uneventful. I scavenged and foraged some more and sold those items to make due.

Just as I remembered it-Granite Falls is my paradise! The first fish I caught on my trip was a hefty yellow perch.

Of course, I don’t miss the smelly public restrooms and bugs. I promptly bought some bug spray and a tent at the nearby kiosk.

Aside from catching every fish, I’m determined to catch every bug. These bees were a challenge but I did it!

Next up: a little harvesting. I like to vary my activities-keeps me sharp. Elderberries came from this plant. I plan on becoming a master herbalist as well.

I’m slowly getting the hang of this cooking thing. These grilled fruits were delicious! I also snagged the best camping spot on the campgrounds! I can’t wait to bring my future partner and our kids here! <3

The fire ant bites stung something fierce! It brought me back to playing with them when I was a kid-hurt just as bad then too.

This time I picked some chamomile. Nothing like a fresh chamomile tea to soothe the nerves and put you right to sleep. ^__^ It was also a staple in my family if you hadn’t already guessed.

Just when I thought this day couldn’t get better, I stumbled upon a community vegetable garden while on my nature walk.

Now on to the fun part: Herbalism! I ended up making an insect repellent. The liniment requires 2 noxious elderberries and 2 basil. Wish I’d thought of that before I bought all of that repellent…

My first fire! I don’t know how I did it but next thing I knew, my baked potatoes were up in flames! Naturally I had to replace the grill which ran me $650 simoleons. This left me with a household funds total of $702. Ugh! I had gotten so far! I mean I’m glad that I sprang into action and put it out but am beyond frustrated at this turn of events!

A highlight of Day 6 was catching these gorgeous Rainbow Fireflies! They are just as rare as they are gorgeous! The buggers were a bit elusive though! They seemed to flit in and out of existence…

Before going to bed, I met Park Ranger Jensen Ly. He’s a foodie, loves the outdoors, and is an art lover. He seemed to keep to himself though, so I’ll leave him to it. End Day 6.

This morning I decided to be a little bit spontaneous and explore the Deep Woods. Mr. Ly told me all about it. He also mentioned something about a resident Hermit I should meet. Didn’t have to tell me twice! The journey was a bit challenging but nothing I could handle… Well, except the temptation to fish at the most gorgeous fishing spot I’d ever seen!

While fishing, I met the Legendary Tanvi Tuttle! She loves the outdoors, is erratic, and a loner. We whiled away the hours concentrating on our catches. I hope to catch the Mountain Lion Fish!

Catching these dragonflies were tricky. I had to attempt it a few times but got ’em!

Nothing beats catching regular fireflies… :D

Blue Morpho Butterfly.

Tanvi was kind enough to let me cook in her kitchen-well, actually she was nowhere to be found but I figured our friendship was solid enough to help myself.

She also had Luna Moths nearby. I love their ethereal nature! <3

I had a fantastic weekend! Here’s my collection of my favorite critters along with the Mountain Lion Fish! This ends Day 8 and my vacation. Stay tuned for my next adventures. Thanks again Dear Readers!

Happy Simming!

The Grove Legacy: Meeting New Sims Ch. 2

*Welcome Back Simmers! I’ve got to say: I’m loving this challenge! I don’t feel inundated with constant notifications from all the packs and it gives me an incentive to stick with more generations of game play. I must say it’ll be really hard for me to resist buying the new Business and Hobbies pack though!(Spoiler: I caved and bought it anyway.) Now on to the story! (*=Author’s Note.)

G’day all and welcome back! Today’s day 2 and it’s off to a rousing start! I’ve dug up a treasure map, common upgrade parts, and harvested mushrooms. I’m definitely on a roll! I also mined a voodoo doll using the treasure map I’d found while digging. I’ve always fancied myself as sort of a scavenger/naturalist I suppose. I read in the society letter that’s mailed to us that Bella and Mortimer Goth are expecting their third child! I haven’t even had my first yet…

Here I am heading to my first day of work as a Writer’s Assistant! It went alright. The focus was mostly on orientation and training. Don Lothario called at about 10:50 A.m. asking to come over. I can’t believe I went on break for that… I kindly explained to him that I’m not interested and hope that’s the end of that…

I can’t believe it! I was promoted to Blogger by the end of the day! I corrected many typing and grammatical errors and obtained a medium performance. So psyched! My mother was an excellent cook. I, however, did not bother to learn it like I should have… By the end of my shift, I was famished so I rustled up some grub. I accidentally let the lettuce in the salad go bad, but “waste not want not”… End of Day 2.

Good morning all! I finally made quality food! After needing to use up the lettuce, I successfully pulled off making veggie dumplings! After this I headed over the the Willow Creek Archives Library to read and meet new people.

While researching different writing techniques, I met Librarian Lacy Butterfield and learned she’s neat and a bookworm. I thought I also heard mention of kleptomania, but I can’t be certain… I have a feeling we’re going to be fast friends! Our conversation flowed like butter and took 0 effort!

Shortly after, Cale Faulker sat next to me, so we chatted for a bit. He’s a grouch and hates children but loves books. Umm… next! There are also quite a few members of the Faulkner clan, but I’m not sure how they’re all related to one another. They are new to town like myself.

Next, I met Troy Collier. He’s creative, erratic, and noncommittal. I’d sooner get past the erratic trait over the noncommittal one-that’s a deal breaker for me. I’ve barely begun, but the search for a romantic partner is already so exhausting!

I met Rodolfo Primley. He stuck me as mean and erratic though. He was muttering something under his breath and leaving in a huff. Cool hair though.

Here, I met Tylor Kruse (pictured in the blue hat on the left.) He loves the outdoors and is a bookworm! And he’s childish. Ugh! Maybe if his personality veered more on the side of whimsy, then I’d be more accepting but he seemed like the worst kind of childish. He kept bragging about how little adulting he does.

Summer Holiday is someone I’d gone to high school with. She was a mean girl then and I’m not sure that she’s changed all that much in the years since… I decided to reintroduce myself anyway. She prattled on and on about her roommates Travis Scott and Liberty Lee. I do Miss Liberty! We weren’t best friends but got along well enough in high school. I don’t really remember Travis though… Apparently they’re all in some kind of weak love triangle or something… After enduring more gossip than I meant to, I excused myself to go fishing at home. She didn’t seem to approve. Oh well, heh. End of Day 3.

*Before I started this legacy I’d added 4 households to the game and they are as follows: *Cute Base Game Mala Prop by proffittm30, Cute Family by Grams_McHams, Ashley Henry Base Game by withlovejulien, and Celebrate Diwali by Maxis.

Thank you for reading and Happy Simming! In the next part, Brooke will go on her first camping trip!

The Grove Legacy: Humble Beginnings Ch. 1

Hi all and welcome to the start of my legacy! My name is Brooke Grove and I am excited to go on this journey with y’all! My dream is to become a successful writer and nature enthusiast! Sorry about all the exclamation marks-I’m just so darned excited to begin!

Here’s proof that I started from scratch. Lovely lot, isn’t it?! I can’t wait to let my children play on that pirate ship structure. I scoped out the area and there are two fishing spots across the street! How lucky can a gal get?

While I’m no architect, this humble little shack isn’t half bad in my opinion! I mean it could be vastly better…But I’m in a hurry to get my life started, y’know?

Here’s the inside. It’s a work in progress for sure… Hopefully, as I made friends and network some more, I’ll get this down… Something is really lacking here but I don’t know what.

In the meantime, here’s a full-body profile of me. I am a simple gal who loves the outdoors and fishing. I am the youngest of three: two older brothers and myself. I’ve been a writer since before I could write. Life is rife with possibilities for me now and I’m all in!

I forgot to mention this, but the pictures so far are from day 1 of my new adventure. Here, I met the handsome and notorious Don Lothario. Despite his reputation, I wanted to give him a chance. So, I struck up a conversation with him and quickly deduced that he is both self assured and non-committal. Well… Fiddlesticks!

“Ha! Don’t tell me you’ve been suckered in by this dirt bag! Run fast and run far!” Alex Moyer warned.

I just chuckled and introduced myself to her. I’d already made up my mind to have nothing to do with Mr. Lothario anyway. Alex turns out to be a lazy, materialistic, glutton. While I don’t want to judge too harshly, I don’t see us being friends either…

My first catch here was this beautiful bass! I also met this fellow, Tevin Arreola. I considered befriending him. He was very charming. He loves the outdoors (like me), is ambitious… and a kleptomaniac. Ugh! He was bragging about the thrill of the steal after I was nearly hooked! Ah well…

I’ve had great lucky finding items in dig spots or little rock formations on the ground. Here, I dug up a Buddy Doll. I promptly sold it as I don’t have use for action figures myself.

Ahh! I’m in love with how picturesque my new home is! I also found an alcron stone. Again-it’s been sold.

Here’s where I really shine: frog hunting! It’s been a pastime of mine and my family’s for as long as I can remember. In this stump alone I found a Striped Leaf and Eggplant Whirl Frogs. I reckon I can breed them and sell them to the highest bidder.

Later this afternoon, I met Tatum Faulkner. I gleaned that he was squeamish and neat. There was something endearing about that combination to me… But darn! He’s married and has a kid. Back to the drawing board I suppose. I really do want to start a family. However, I don’t want to be desperate. Papa always told me someday the right “catch” will come along.

While it was still light out, I made my way to the Willow Creek Archives Library. There I met Camden Foster-the Librarian. He was handsome and friendly. Unlike the other men I’ve encountered today, he checked all the boxes-but why aren’t we clicking??? (He’s outgoing, neat, and a bookworm.)

Oh well, nothing that a good book can’t fix! I’m currently devouring “Herbalism: Vol. 1”! So good! I want to start camping as soon as possible. As luck would have it, I got a job as a Writer’s Assistant (rank 1) just like that! I couldn’t believe it-I made a phone call and boom! They needed someone asap! Wait a minute… this could be a scam… I suppose I’ll find out tomorrow. It’s now time for me to turn in for the night. Thank you dear reader for choosing my little blog and I do hope to see you again soon! Dag dag! (Goodbye in Simlish.)

I hope you’ve enjoyed this story. Please feel free to give me feedback. Thanks again and Happy Simming!