Pleasantview: A Legacy

Chapter 28: Birthdays

2008-09-28T19:29:00.001-07:00

Ivy decides to give the chocolate candy maker a go.

Boy, those sure look good.

Taste good too.

Derek checks out Dagmar from behind as she performs a tricky shot.

Having a pool room certainly keeps the elders entertained.

Ivy is getting ready to celebrate her transition to elder hood.

An all adult party, a little unusual in this legacy house.

Happy Birthday Ivy!

This isn't too bad, at least she transitioned into a decent outfit.

Alexander and Ivy
(I always find these pictures a little odd until the other person transitions).

Do they talk about anything besides travel?

Benjamin says hi to the bun in the oven.

I think these interactions are too cute.

Looks like it's time for the bun to come out!

Welcome baby Celeste!

I'm very excited to have another girl.

Derek doing some garden work, he loves puttering around the house.

Ivy and Meadow hanging out together.

Proud father.

Everyone loves having a baby around the place. Alexander dotes on his first granddaughter.

A sweet mother and daughter picture.

Benjamin and Celeste.
This is one of my all time favorite pictures.

Chapter 27: Back at Home

2008-09-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

Benjamin and Meadow move back into the Bertino family home together.

Looks like the fireman was called to the welcome home BBQ.

Meadow spends the first few nights in the spare kids room until the wedding takes place.

Meadow jamming with her future in laws.

Ivy suggests a cross country train trip to the couple as a possible honeymoon.

People arriving in formal wear can only mean one thing.

A wedding!

What do the happy couple do right after the ceremony? Pull out the pillows of course.

Brandon thinks this is the best wedding ever.

Toasting the happy couple.

Lost in each others arms.

Cutting the cake as it gets dark.

Cake inside.

Off to that much talked about honeymoon. Where are they going? Only the Benjamin and Meadow know.

The party continues with the bride and groom gone. Derek still thinks his wife is hot stuff.

Ivy and Derek having a great time dancing.

Back at home in the first master bedroom.

Fireworks!

Pancake breakfast, dress is casual around here in the morning.

Uh oh, looks like Derek annoyed the wrong person.

Painting is such a great retirement hobby.

Meadow gets a job in the movie business.

Updated view of the Bertino home.

With the growing number of people around the home a new place to house the workout machines and activity equipment was needed. The storage room is next to it.

Another view, the two bathrooms available are good for an after workout shower and are very useful for big parties.

Benjamin decides it's time to leave home and head off to university.

A shot of Benjamin and Meadow's diplomas proudly displayed in the living room.

Benjamin spending some time with his grandma.

They are still so cute together!

Dagmar decides to get a part time job in the slacker career track, something to keep her busy.

Relaxed family moment.

Meadow gets her first bump.

Dagmar heads off to her new job.

Ivy gives advice to Meadow on what to expect with the first baby.

And here is the second bump! Meadow seems a bit surprised.

Chapter 26: Benjamin and Meadow: the College Years Part Two

2008-05-30T22:58:00.000-07:00

The cow mascot spends quite a bit of time hanging around on the couch.

Getting some studying done.

A nice after class kiss.

Benjamin decides it's time to pop the question.

Meadow seems pretty happy.

A break from all the studying.

Talking about going on a cruise as a honeymoon possibility.

Ahh student life, burnt chili and dirty counters.

Meadow decides it's time for another change and grows out her hair, a much more romantic look she thinks.

Brandon comes to visit his big brother at university.

Benjamin gives him some tips on how to do the school cheer.

Brandon seems overwhelmed at how complicated it is.

Benjamin asks his brother about his plans for attending university.

It's nice to see how well they get along.

Looks like Benjamin is still planning the honeymoon.

Alexander comes over to visit the newly engaged couple.

Some father and son time.

Cousin Eric seems to approve of the plans for a cruise.

How time flies, Benjamin has a great graduation party.

Brandon tries to impress a professor with a joke about sundaes.

Benjamin and Ivy preform an odd dance in front of the bonfire.

Parting kiss.

Wow Benjamin, you look so old all of a sudden.

The taxi send off.

Eric moves into the house because Meadow will soon be graduating as well.

Meadow making wedding plans.

Time for her own graduation party.

Saying goodbye to well loved profs.

Great party, Benjamin couldn't make it as he was looking for work.
(Actually I forgot him in the sim bin and couldn't invite him.)

Meadow has chosen a similarly grownup look to head home in. She must have some interviews lined up.

Eric left with the aftermath of the party.

Chapter 25: Golden Anniversary

2008-04-27T23:11:00.000-07:00

It's time for an anniversary party! The family gathers to celebrate Derek and Dagmar's marriage.

Looks like Anthony's gained a little weight recently.

A romantic moment while the family starts the entertainment for the evening.

Watching the game, I don't think Derek is too thrilled to have Dagmar blocking his view.

With the party over it's back to regular family life, Brandon looks so cute reading the paper.

Birthday time for Brandon!

The family gathers to cheer him on.

Seems everyone prefers cake to spaghetti this evening.

Brandon follows the Bertino tradition of good grades.

Brandon and his aunt Dina have a late night jam session.

Derek doesn't look like he cares that the neighborhood meanie, Mortimer Goth is accusing him of spying.

Chapter 24: Benjamin and Meadow: The College Years Part One

2008-04-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

Benjamin and Meadow settled into their new place nicely, here Meadow does some much needed studying.

Trying to ignore the campus streaker.

Taking a break from hitting the books.

Another break, gotta love those ratty old college couches, they've seen a lot of action!

Spaghetti: food of choice for those on a budget.

Benjamin doing the washing up and looking very handsome.

Sharing the domestic chores.

Time for a good pillow fight.

Looks like Meadow took quite the hit!

These two are just too cute together.

Working hard for those creativity points.

Meadow tries out a softer hair style.

The couple have Eric over for mac 'n' cheese.

Meadow checks out the campus gym.

Looks like she still needs to work on her fitness level.

Hanging out at the pool hall.

Meadow plays a game, while Benjamin makes friends with Heather Huffington.

Chapter 23: Geoffrey's Childhood

2008-04-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

Anthony painting a portrait of Geoffrey, while Dina plays some chess with her son.

Dina has become quite domestic, serving omelets.

Family meal with everyone looking serious.

Geoffrey is a pretty quiet boy, guess it comes from being an only child.

The nanny looking kind of grim and forbidding.

Being fortune sims both Anthony and Dina wanted their son in private school so I attempted my first headmaster visit.

Geoffrey coming to great the headmaster.

Geoffrey ready for bed watching the game with the headmaster. The visit went quite well and he was accepted into the school.

Chapter 22: The Pleasant's of Pleasantview

2008-04-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

The Pleasant family was slightly dysfunctional when I started playing their lot. Daniel Pleasant the head of the house was having an affair with the maid. His wife Mary-Sue was a workaholic trying to make her way through the political field and while their daughter Angela seemed to be fine, her twin Lilith did not get along with anyone in the family.

At the intervention of a family councilor (me) Lilith decides to spend more time with her family. Trying to have a nice family meal, although Angela is missing from the table. The twins are not on speaking terms at this time.

In an effort to improve her grades Lilith gets help with her homework.

Daniel and Mary-sue try to reconnect.

Looks like they're making some progress.

As her mood lightens Lilith decides it's time for a new look, getting a haircut and some new clothes. Here she tries to ignore the fact that her mom is at the breakfast table in her undies, looks like Daniel was successful last night.

Finally we see Angela, having a breakfast shake with her dad in the morning.

Lilith brings James Bertino home after school to hang out. She decided she needed to make more friends, particularly since her ex-boyfriend Dirk left to go to college.

Angela seems quite proud of her good grades and has brought home her boyfriend Dustin, although her parents don't really approve of them dating since he is now in college.

(I couldn't figure out why for two or three days he kept getting off the school bus with Angela even though he is now a young adult.)

Playing a game of kicky-back.

Looks like Lilith and James are having a good time together!

Lilith out buying some new clothes.

Family dinner, looks like relationships in this family are slowly improving. Enough for them to enjoy a meal together at least.

Despite showing up for dinner in her nightshirt, the family seems to approve of Lilith's new look.

Improving family relationships while getting skill points, now that's multitasking!

Looks like James and Lilith are happy to see each other again.

Angela listening to some tunes.

James impressing Lilith with some story of his.

Looks like a little more than friendship might be developing between these two, I see pink floaty hearts!

It took awhile, but finally Angela runs into James' twin brother Aaron. I'll leave the reader to speculate on my plans. :)

Chapter 21: The Dreamers

2008-01-20T19:47:00.000-08:00

We've already met Darren Dreamer a good friend of legacy founder Derek, here his wife's ghost gives him a scare.

The family had very little money and a house overcrowded with stuff so I sold the excess decorations and gave them better paint and flooring as it was too painful to look at before.

Quick picture of the downstairs with the improved decorations, Maxis certainly wouldn't do well as an interior decorator.

Darren sharing a little father son time with Dirk.

Looks like Darren could use a little more practice with the video games.

Family time.

Becoming best friends over hamburgers.

A few too many burgers Dirk?

Dirk challenges his friend James Bertino to beat him at his favorite video game.

Spaghetti dinner, Darren is slowly improving his cooking skills.

Hanging out with Aaron Bertino.

Dirk's Mom gives him a scare.

A little nighttime drama.

At least the cop was successful in apprehending the criminal.

Cassandra Goth congratulates Darren on his promotion.

In the heat of the moment the two give in to their feelings, sharing their first kiss.

With his Dad moving on with his life Dirk decides it's time to go to college.

Dirk joins his friend Dustin Broke in the dorms of Pleasantview University.

Chapter 20: College Life

2008-01-20T19:36:00.000-08:00

The first thing Benjamin does when he gets to his dorm is chat up the girls.

Being a romance sim he needs to check out all of them.

However that night he just can't sleep, someone else is on his mind and he just can't stop thinking about her.

In the morning he calls Meadow up to tell her how great the dorm he's in is, hoping to persuade her to try and get a spot before they all fill up.

Meadow manages to get the last spot in the dorm and the high school sweethearts are reunited.

They're thrilled to see each other.

They slowly adjust to campus life.
Eating in the cafeteria.

Studying with their dorm mates.

Meadow decides it's time for a new haircut to go with her edgy college clothes.

Benjamin heads to class in his adorable pj's.
(Don't tell him I said that!)

Meadow thinking of the future family she wants as she decides to major in Literature.

These two love to dance.

They look so sweet and peaceful sleeping together.

Meadow thinks about Benjamin everywhere.

Even when she's supposed to be concentrating on her studies.

Benjamin and Meadow's favorite thing to do with each other is pillow fight.

It's a good way to relieve the stress of studying and exams.

After much discussion, Benjamin and Meadow decide they should get a place of their own and move out of the dorms.

It's small but it will be just perfect for the two of them.

The expense of having their own place doesn't leave them much for furnishings.

But they have all they need and are ready to throw some kick-ass parties.

Meanwhile, elsewhere on campus, Benjamin's cousin Eric is making himself at home in his cousin's old dorm and is in pursuit of a pretty dark haired girl.

Will Eric win?

Chapter 19: Time Passes

2008-01-20T17:37:00.000-08:00

Derek and Dagmar take some time to reflect in the hot tub.

Still so much in love after all these years.

Steaming up the hot tub!

Benjamin is a great big brother to Brandon.

Aren't they so cute together!

Time for Brandon's birthday.

Go Brandon!

Derek and Dagmar having a good time.

Brandon has a laugh with cousin Geoffrey.

After much consideration Dagmar decides to retire as Chief of Staff at Pleasantview General.

Just in time for her son Alexander to be promoted to replace her, fulfilling his lifetime want.

Benjamin becomes an overachiever holding down a job and getting top marks in school.

And who does he meet at this job but the lovely (and infamous) Meadow Thayer.

Resisting Benjamin's advances.
(I love the falling hearts.)

Dancing in their mascot uniforms.

Benjamin is persistent and he finally gets his kiss.

Having some fun poolside.

Benjamin leaves for college thinking of all the girls he'll be able to kiss.

Chapter 18: The Broke Family

2007-11-12T23:14:00.001-08:00

In keeping with my plan to incorporate all the sims in Pleasantview in my story, I decided to drop by the Broke residence. I was certainly surprised when Brandi became pregnant considering her husband had passed away. Here she is having mac 'n' cheese with her two boys Dustin and Beau.

Beau playing cops and robbers with Geoffrey Bertino.

After an uneventful pregnancy Brandi gave birth to little Nathan. Here he is as a toddler with his big brother trying to teach him how to walk.

Dustin is a good big brother tucking in his siblings and helping them out with their homework.

This doesn't mean that he doesn't act like a teenager, here he is at the mall chatting up a girl.

Dustin admires Angela Pleasant.

Since his mom became pregnant and is now having to stay at home with Nathan, Dustin took an after school job in the business career track.

Time for Nathan's birthday, poor boy grew up in pink pjs when he became a toddler and his family was too poor to buy different ones, I think Brandi was hoping for a girl.

Happy Birthday Nathan!

With both his brothers in school now Brandi can get a job and Dustin feels like he can head off to college.

Leaving Pleasantview behind Dustin decides to go to a big city college where he thinks the opportunities will be better and he can get a job making a lot of money.

Dustin quickly makes friends with the people living in his dorm.

He works hard to keep his grades up so he can earn enough scholarships to pay for his tuition. He definitely enjoys the university life.

Chapter 17: Astrid's Boys Grow Up

2007-11-12T22:13:00.000-08:00

Aaron getting up in the morning.

(I love this picture)

The twins do everything together, including making their beds.

Family breakfast.

Astrid works off her pregnancy weight.

Family skilling.

Astrid reaches the top of the culinary career track and Nina came home to celebrate with her.

Hector has dinner with his Mom.

Eric gets an after school job in the athletic track.

Astrid comes home in her fancy new car pool, while Eric tells his friend Meadow an elephant joke.

Aaron and James are so cute together.

Eric gets to wear the goofy mascot uniform.

James and Aaron again, this time doing their homework together.

Looks like we're getting ready for another twin birthday, Astrid and Hector can't believe their little ones are growing up.

Time to blow those candles out.

James goes first.

And then Aaron with big brother Eric looking on.

Happy Birthday!

Looks like they grew up well and into some decent outfits too.

Time for cake!

A momentous event, Astrid and Hector send their first child to college.

Astrid and Hector have a romantic moment.

Now what do you do when you send your first born off to college and your little ones have just become teenagers? . . . . .

Chapter 16: A Milestone

2007-11-04T10:17:00.001-08:00

We're back in the legacy house with Derek and Alexander watching the game.

I don't know how it happened but at the last birthday party at Astrid's house she had a fight with her dad and they were no longer best friends. To try and patch things up Derek invited her over for a game of kicky-back.

Once again another birthday party. Here we have little Brandon Bertino about to become a toddler.

A close up as the candles are blown out.

And poof! He's a toddler, cute too I might add.

Here grandma Dagmar is teaching Brandon his first words.

He made it! Derek is finally Captain Hero, unfortunately his lifetime want is to have three kids graduate from university which isn't going to happen since they grew up before the expansion was installed. Still the first Captain Hero is pretty exciting.

All in a day's work for Captain Hero.

*This is one of my favourite photos.

Don't look too excited grandpa, potty training may not be fun but it's very necessary!

One last close up before your big birthday Dagmar.

Here it comes my first sim to become an elder.

Dagmar is working up the guts to blow out all those candles.

Here she goes!

That wasn't so bad.

After fixing herself up a bit.

Dagmar discusses cooking chili with Anthony.

Sleeping peacefully, I know it looks a little odd but soon Derek will be joining her.

Another picture of their room.

Grandma (who actually looks like one now) after tucking in her grandkids.

Derek helps Brandon take his first steps.

Having grandparents around to teach those toddler skills sure is handy.

Off to fight crime and save the world.

I know in the last update that featured Anthony and Dina I didn't get a picture of Geoffrey as a kid after he blew out the candles. Well here he is hanging out with Benjamin after school.

Geoffrey enjoying some grilled cheese with his Aunt and Grandma.

Looks like a double birthday party is happening at the legacy house.

It's Benjamin's teen birthday.

Time to eat cake.

And now it's time for the founder of this legacy to become an elder, Go Derek, you can do it!

Blowing them out.

Newly elder Derek cleans up some plates while Benjamin tells Anthony about his school work and Astrid and Alexander catch up on things.

Alexander and Astrid pillow fighting.

While in the background their parents make out.

Benjamin and Ivy having a drink from the new punch dispenser.

Derek and Dagmar are now old but I still think they're a sweet couple.

Chapter 15 part two: Nina's Life

2007-11-03T22:39:00.001-07:00

Nina's life continued to be interesting long after her romance goal was accomplished. She still loved to go on outings with friends, seen here "clothes shopping" with Melissa Fancey.

Because Nina is my test sim of sorts when I installed university, I visited her lot first. Testing out the drums.

With university now a part of the mix Nina had a new goal in life, becoming a top chef. She already liked to cook and so she switched from party girl to working in the kitchen and found she really liked it, particularly the new people she was meeting.

One coworker in particular, Abhijeet Deppiesse, struck her interest.

To really impress him one night she made lobster thermidor.
(My first sim to make this dish.)

Enjoying their meal.

Definitely got the results she was looking for.

Nina invited Hector and Don over for a family dinner.

Enjoying cake for dessert.

Hector is probably thinking that at least his parents still love each other. Although I think he'd still rather not witness their make out session.

In the family oriented spirit Nina invited her sister over for a visit.

They just don't seem to have much in common. Dina tries to tell Nina about her wonderful marriage and telling her she should try it herself.

Nina's conversation seems to bore Dina.

Nina also loves to spend time with her friends (aka lovers), and decided to have a party for a bunch of them.

Dancing.

Looks like their having a good time.

Pillow fight!

Out in the hot tub Nina asks if anyone has woohooed in public, no names of course.

Relaxing towards the end of the party.

Brandi thanks Nina for a great time.

What a great party!

Chapter 15: Nina in Love

2007-10-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

*I would like to apologize in advance for the gushy romance novel style writing at points, however it did seem to fit the story so it stays.

I introduced Nina Caliente in a previous chapter along with several of her lovers. Now Nina had a goal in life, she wanted to have ten lovers. She was already well on her way to accomplishing this desire having seduced a number of the citizens of Pleasantview. Don Lothario was the first, then came Andrea Hogan and Melissa Fancey, more would soon come. What follows is an account of Nina's pursuit of love.

Making out with Andrea.

Andrea again in the hot tub.

Nina was good friends with Daniel Pleasant, another romance sim in town who she found very attractive. Here Nina innocently discusses the weather with Daniel.

Another good friend of Nina's was Brandi Broke who had lost her husband about a year ago. Nina and Brandi often spent time together.

Nina had a hard time keeping her feelings in check and she soon gave way to her attraction.

Things heat up on the couch.

Brandi spends the night.

A moment with Don, her first love.

Nina invites Daniel Pleasant over for dinner and a little hot tubbing.

Nina almost gets Daniel where she wants him but he gets up after a few minutes and says he has to leave. Nina was quite put out by being turned down and vowed to get Daniel back.

At this time Nina was seeing Darren Dreamer, her neighbor and friend from across the street (mentioned in the other chapter). Another friendship that grew into something more was Benjamin Long, a name that described more than just his nose.

Nina would later regret getting involved with Benjamin when he revealed his meaner side after he caught her in the arms of another in her hot-tub.

Despite Don Lothario pretty much ignoring his relationship with Cassandra Goth in public, Nina managed to meet and become friends with her through Darren Dreamer.

Though she did not have much of a garden to tend to, Nina hired a gardener to come and look after her lawn and the few plants she did have. It wasn't long before Calista Despret found her way into Nina's bed.

Nina did not limit herself to her house and property in her pursuit of love and woohoo and occasionally went out looking for fun. Here she is "trying on clothes" with a close friend, wink wink, nudge nudge.
I think Nina enjoys having an audience.

Determined to get what she wanted out of Daniel, Nina invited him over again and used every trick in the book she knew.

Success!

Now Nina was acquainted with Daniel Pleasant's wife Mary-Sue, but she didn't really know her that well. Nina decided it was high time she invite her lover's wife over and get to know her.

It turns out they didn't have much in common. Mary-Sue had a career in politics and Nina knew next to nothing about it. They were able to discuss a few things but subjects were limited.

Nina decided that if she wanted to get close to Mary-Sue she'd have to expand her horizons a bit. She decided to get a job and start reading up on current events.

Nina at first didn't think much of her friendship with Cassandra, but one night Cassandra came over unannounced and it hit them at once how they felt about each other.

Nina was thrilled to find another person in her life to love.

Nina tending her plants.

After what seemed like forever Nina finally felt like she had broken through Mary-Sue's icy exterior.

All of a sudden it was like a dam broke and the pent up passion Mary-Sue had been holding in for so long because of her straying husband, came out full force as Nina kissed her.

The passionate embrace.

Nina felt a sense of triumph, she had accomplished her goal of having ten lovers and had gotten back at Daniel for denying her what she wanted by seducing his wife.

Success had never felt so sweet for Nina.

Mary-Sue got a great amount of pleasure getting back at Daniel for his long years of cheating on her with the maid and who knows how many other women. (Little did she know that Nina was one of them.)

Nina's ten lovers in order of seduction: Don Lothario, Andrea Hogan, Melissa Fancey, Brandi Broke, Darren Dreamer, Daniel Pleasant, Benjamin Long, Calista Despret, Cassandra Goth, and Mary-Sue Pleasant.

Chapter 14: Geoffrey

2007-10-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

Anthony and Dina are expecting! Anthony proudly paints a portrait of his wife.

Dina has cravings for chili.

Fixing a midnight snack.

Anthony discussing work with his mom.

Anthony looks happy to have his parents over for a visit.

It's time!

Let's call him Geoffrey.

The Bertino's are becoming quite the successful couple.

Although Anthony can't stand the noise of his carpool.

Bath time!

Dina works hard to get ahead at her job.

Anthony teaches Geoffrey how to talk.

Father and son.

Geoffrey plays on his own.

Dina teaches Geoffrey how to walk.

Looks like there's a birthday party going on.

It's Geoffrey's first birthday and his parents and grandparents are there to help him celebrate.

Happy Birthday to Geoffrey!

Time to blow out the candles.

Wait for it . . .

*I would like to mention that from here on time lines and ages are a bit skewed as I wasn't concentrating on playing the houses in strict rounds.

Chapter 13: Double the Fun

2007-10-21T21:54:00.001-07:00

It's birthday time for the twins James and Aaron.

Aaron goes first. Gotta love the sparkles!

Next it's James' turn with Dad and brother Eric cheering.

Poof, confetti everywhere.

A quiet moment while the twins are asleep.

Aaron in mommy and daddy's room.

Learning to take those first steps.

I love how they teach the toddlers to walk.

They're catching on!

James and Aaron playing and learning at the same time.

Time for big brother Eric's birthday.

He's turned into a nice looking teen with the popularity aspiration like his mom.

It wasn't too much later and they were all celebrating the twins birthday again.

Aaron getting ready to grow up.

It's James' turn now.

James is thinking about his big brother as he ages.

The aftermath of the party. James is helpfully doing some washing up in the background.

Chapter 12: A Spare Arrives

2007-10-21T21:07:00.001-07:00

A busy day at the Bertino home.

Relaxing in their new bedroom, Derek and Dagmar still enjoy each others company.

Still young thanks to the elixir.

Dagmar gives a homework lesson in her undies.

Dagmar wanders around the house like this a lot so it doesn't phase Benjamin.

Playing a game of red hands.

Alexander practicing his surgical skills.

A quiet moment for Ivy.

Benjamin takes a break from the homework.

Derek is close to maxing his athletic skill.

Alexander and Ivy discuss having a second child.

The bun's in the oven!

Benjamin examines his grades as Nina walks by the house.

Benjamin has his cousin Eric over to visit.

Enjoying a good game of cops and robbers.

Getting rid of some excess energy.

Proudly showing off his great grades to his mom Ivy.

Derek receives his final promotion!

It's time for the new baby to arrive.

Welcome to the world Brandon Bertino!

The cheering goes on for quite a while.....

Still going.

Derek is such a proud grandfather.

Benjamin blowing off a little steam.

Dagmar and Ivy discuss makeup techniques.

A little father son time talking about their favorite desserts.

Chapter 11: Anthony Moves Out

2007-10-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

Anthony found a place near to his twin Astrid.

It's not huge but it works for him.

Being a little low in the friends department the welcome wagon is an excellent opportunity for Anthony to meet new people and help him climb the corporate ladder. Nina skips the socializing and heads to the chess board, Anthony tells Ben Long a joke, while Nina eyes him, her fortune sim mind calculating how much he might be worth, now and in the future.

Getting him alone Nina and Anthony hit it off talking about their favorite subject.

Playing a game of chess with a coworker.

Anthony can't get Nina out of his mind so he invites her over to see if she feels the same way.

Let the wooing commence.

A little flirting.

Ooo, she really likes me!

Some more cuddling.

In order to make friends Anthony chats with the newspaper boy (who later steals the garden gnome).

Keeping up his friendship with Kaylynn the family maid.

Furthering his friendship with Ben Long, that chess table gets a lot of use.

Anthony invites Nina over for a little dancing.

They realize they're in love with each other.

Anthony focusing on his goals as he studies for his next promotion.

Anthony and Hector work for the same company and they often hang out together after work.

Anthony continues a hobby he started when he was younger. Here painting a view of his home at night.

Anthony and Nina moving their relationship up a level.

Anthony asks Nina to move in and she accepts.

Anthony cooks the meal traditional for Bertino men to make for their partners.

The completed painting.

A little romance in the kitchen.

Off to work.

Nina has her best friend Brandy Broke over.

The wedding day has arrived!

You may kiss the bride.

Presenting Anthony and Nina Bertino.

Traditional cake feeding.

It was a small wedding but everyone had a great time.

After it was back to work immediately, both striving to get to the top of their careers.

Nina is my first sim to have a high playful level, she gets a kick out of practicing her juggling skills.

Nina tends the garden she planted.

Life isn't all studying, the couple enjoys their new hot tub.

This couple is so perfect for each other.

(And this is before nightlife and all the attraction factors it adds.)

Chapter 10b: Astrid's Family Grows

2007-10-18T15:20:00.002-07:00

With their family about to grow Astrid and Hector decide to expand the house.

They now have a cozy room of their own and space for the baby.

An extra washroom downstairs and a larger living area completes the renovations.

Hector being a family sim is really excited about his first child.

Discussing toilet training responsibilities.

Hector is worried about Astrid as she delivers the baby.

Once Astrid and the baby are safe Hector decides to play some video games.

Astrid feeds baby Eric.

Hector practices important business man skills.

Hector proudly shows off his son to his father in law Derek, who was over with Dagmar for Eric's first birthday.

Astrid gives Eric a bath.

Astrid loves spending time with Eric.

Learning to take those first steps.

Stubborn just like his father.

Hector is slowly working his way up the corporate ladder.

I love this picture, they look so happy.

Birthday time!

Only one set of grandparents were able to come, Nina was making a celebrity chef appearance and Hector isn't really in touch with his Dad.

Go Eric!

After the birthday excitement, Astrid and Hector decide it's time to add another little person to the family.

Eric heads off to his first day of school.

Despite being busy with his career, Hector makes time to spend with Eric.

Astrid takes continues to practice her painting and has even been able to sell some of her works.

Eric is a good student and enjoys brining home good report cards.

Being an only child sometimes gets lonely.

During a relaxed moment Astrid asks Eric if he would like a brother or sister to play with.

Eric asks a lot of questions about the baby growing inside his mom and is pretty excited to have someone to play with soon.

Astrid enjoys this pregnancy now that she knows what to expect.

Family studying.

Hector still isn't quite used to the experience yet.

Well this is a surprise! Astrid gave birth to twin boys James and Aaron.

I wanted them to have a girl so I actually saved and quit several times to try and get one and yet every time I ended up with twin boys, so in the end I went with it.

Eric is excited to have not one but two baby brothers.

Here Astrid holds James. He was born with red hair while Aaron has black hair.

Eric tells a new friend from school about his new family members.

His new brothers occupy a lot of Eric's thoughts.

Because the twins need all the room upstairs Hector and Astrid built a small addition to the house so that Eric could have his own room.

Eric quite enjoys having his own space to play in.

Family dinners are still the same as the little ones aren't big enough to sit at the table yet.

Chapter 10a: Astrid Moves Out

2007-10-18T13:54:00.001-07:00

With some help from her parents Astrid was able to purchase a small house.

It wasn't huge but it was all hers and there was plenty of room to expand.

Astrid paints on the top floor.

Astrid heads to work, she has decided to continue working in the culinary world.

Being a popularity sim Astrid is eager to make new friends, here she entertains a coworker.

In another home nearby Hector Caliente was having a birthday party, with his Mom and Dad in attendance.

Astrid and Hector run into each other at the local clothing store.

They haven't seen each other in a while but the spark is still there.

Hector invites Astrid back to his house (he hasn't moved out yet).

Things heat up on the couch!

They realize that they love each other more than ever.

Hector pops the question!

Astrid invites Hector over to see her new house.

More fun on the couch.

Astrid makes friends with the mailman.

The wedding day arrives.

The family looks thrilled to be there.

Toasts to the bride.

And the groom.

This was not one of my successful weddings, the guests left early due to the lack of washrooms and the honeymoon didn't happen as Astrid was exhausted at the end and crashed in bed.

Astrid gossiping in the kitchen about her mother in law with Brandi Le Tourneau.

Hector starts out his career as a business man.

Astrid hasn't been feeling well lately and she wonders what it could mean.

Enjoying a nice quiet dinner together, Astrid keeps her suspicions to herself, she wants to be sure before she says anything.

She starts to show.

Thinking about what happened to get her in this state.

And who helped.
I love when you can read sims thought patterns like this.

"So it definitely looks only like a small baseball not a huge basketball?"
Astrid seeks reassurance on her size.

Definitely looking more like a basketball now!

Astrid shares the good news with one of her good friends.

Chapter 9: The Baby Arrives

2007-09-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Dagmar and Alexander freak out as Ivy goes into labor with her first child.

Woot! Alexander seems happy to be a dad. Careful you don't step on the baby Ivy!

Upstairs Derek is thrilled to have his first grandchild despite sleeping through the event.

Alexander welcomes baby boy Benjamin to the Bertino family.

Dagmar enjoys being a good grandma. If anyone is wondering why Derek and Dagmar still look quite young, it's because they've had their fair share of elixir because I wasn't ready for my first sims to pass on.

Ivy and Benjamin pose for the camera.

Another stove fire! I can't tell if that's Derek or Alexander.

Dagmar helping out around the house.

Ivy playing with Benjamin.

Alexander reaches his lifetime want of becoming a mad scientist.

Alexander in his mad scientist gear, I think it's so funny that they get picked up in a limo.

Derek still working on those body points.

The miraculous floating child, Benjamin's first birthday.

Cheers all around, hopefully he will be a good toddler.

What a cutie!

Benjamin plays with his toys, while the adults talk in the background.

The joys of potty training.

Benjamin makes his feelings known.

The young family spending time skilling together.

The lovely Ivy.

The power of the green glow, Alexander working on Benjamin's walking skills.

Grandpa Derek finishes the task.

Benjamin using his new skills.

Another birthday!

Everyone's here and pretty excited.

You can't see Benjamin's head as he runs to eat his cake, but he grew up well. Many aspiration points were gained at this party.

An odd photo showing Christy Stratton floating in mid air. She's supposedly in the hot tub on the upstairs balcony. Down below the party continues.

As the last of the guests leave, Aunt Astrid is just walking out the door, Benjamin grins about the great birthday party he just had.

Chapter 8: Gen. 2 Wedding

2007-08-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

People in formal wear. That can only mean one thing . . . . a wedding!

We are here today to celebrate the marriage of Alexander Bertino and Ivy Copur.

May I present the next heir and his wife: Alexander and Ivy Bertino! A small ceremony with family and a few friends.

Cutting the cake.

Ivy eating cake with her new mother in law.

Toasting the happy couple.

More toasts.

To the lovely bride!

Great party, now it's off to the honeymoon.

Returning home.

Loving embrace.

So, I think you guys have a responsibility to fulfill here being the next couple in this legacy.

Time to get some heirs! I'm such a slave driver.

That was fun!

Discussing their fabulous wedding party.

Ivy heads off to work, she surprised me, she is a knowledge sim who works as a professional party guest and has over 20 friends. At first I didn't think much about all her friends but they became a pain in the ass when they started harassing the family with calls to keep up the friendships!

Dagmar practices her charisma skills for a work promotion.

Ivy feels perfectly at home, as evidenced by her arrival at breakfast in her underwear, here enjoying a nice pancake breakfast, a family tradition by now.

Were the pancakes undercooked or is there something else more basic at work here?

Alexander the dutiful husband cleans up the mess.

Husband and wife playing chess.

A bump!
This family does not under cook their pancakes!

Dagmar taking care of her new flowerbeds.

Ivy playing the piano to the future heir.

Chapter 7: Interlude

2007-08-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Birthday time in the Bertino home yet again. This time Astrid and Anthony prepare to become adults.

The birthday girl after her transition.

Family pancake breakfast.

Astrid hanging out in the hot tub.

Alexander working at his science station from work.

Derek and Dagmar taking advantage of the hot tub right outside their bedroom.

Whoohoo!

They still know how to have a good time.

Time for Astrid and Anthony to move out of the family home.

Only there was a weird glitch and when I reloaded the lot they were standing there with cakes in their hands, which was a little freaky.

Lets try this again, Anthony leaves home.

Astrid leaves later that evening.

Derek is now on the swat team at work.

Poor Alexander came home from work one day and had a breakdown on the front lawn. He had made a serious mistake at work and lost a lot of the important research his team was working on. The stress and implications of what happened proved too much and he just lost it.

Dr. Who came down to evaluate him.

Despite things looking bad Dr. Who was able to help Alexander recover. He prescribed some bed rest and medication and when Alexander went back to work he and his co workers were able to recover much of what had been lost.

With his breakdown behind him and his position at work better than ever after much hard work, Alexander invites Ivy over.

He loves her so much and he decides that now is the time to propose something that he's been thinking about for a long time.

Ivy accepts and now begins the crazy process of planning the wedding.

In other matters Derek is still working on his body points to get ahead at work.

Dagmar has achieved the pinnacle of her career, becoming chief of staff at the Pleasantview hospital.

More improvements to the family home. The wedding arch and chairs are set up for the upcoming nuptials.

Another out building is set up to house the various career objects the family is collecting. The storage room contains the baby things, which will be brought out when Ivy and Alexander have their own little ones.

Alexander treats himself to a new, more powerful telescope.

Chapter 6: Love is in the Air

2007-08-24T09:09:00.001-07:00

Derek and Dagmar's teens were well behaved for the most part and did well in school. Here Astrid and Anthony show off their good marks to their dad while Alexander plays the piano in the background.

Alexander continues to be a good older brother, spending time with both Astrid and Anthony.

All three teens got after school jobs to earn extra money and some work experience for when they graduate from high school.

Derek decided that the political career track wasn't where he wanted to be anymore and so he switched careers and went back to the police force.

At Pleasantview High Astrid met a guy she thought was really cute. His name was Hector Caliente and she was so excited when he accepted her invitation to hang out after school one day.

They really seemed to hit it off and Astrid was surprised and hurt when she leaned in to kiss him before he went home and he backed off and left in a hurry.

Astrid was crushed over being rejected for her first kiss and she spent the next week crying all the time. Her twin Anthony was there for her with a hug when she needed one.

Meanwhile life continued in the Bertino household. One day a girl that no one in the family had met before wandered into their house and started playing chess. Astrid really wanted to make some more friends so she went over and joined her.

Astrid ended up with a good friend but she never did figure out why Merissa wandered into their home.

A big promotion was coming up for Derek but he knew that in order to get it he needed to be in better shape. So out comes the track suit as he puffs away to the oldies.

Finally the time has come, Alexander's birthday and his transition into adulthood. He has been chosen as the heir for this generation.

The family cheers him on.

Alexander, knowledge sim that he is went straight for the telescope now that he didn't have to worry about school and homework the next day.

Alexander knew he had to find someone to marry and continue the legacy with and he had a particular sim in mind. He had met Ivy Copur when he was still a teen and thought that she was beautiful.

As soon as he could he invited her over to woo her. Here he uses the same technique his father used to get Dagmar. Back massages really seem to create a relaxed, loving atmosphere.

They danced a bit.

And discussed the possibility of a future together over a bowl of chili.

Alexander heads off to his job in the science career track.

Meanwhile. . . .

Over at the Caliente's Hector can't stop thinking about Astrid. He can't believe he just left her standing there when she tried to kiss him. At the time he was just scared (although he knew that was a lame excuse). He really liked Astrid but was afraid of making a mistake, how could he be sure that Astrid was the girl that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with?

Still, he couldn't get her out of his head and couldn't stop beating himself up over how he had treated her.

He decided to talk to his mom and see if she had any advice for him.

With thoughts of his future family in his head he decides his mom is right. He needs to talk to her in person. So he heads to the phone to invite her over, he just hopes she won't refuse to see him. Luckily she happens to be heading by his house on the way to the corner store and agrees to stop by and hear him out.

Once she was over Hector did his best to apologize for how he had treated her and asked whether she could possibly forgive him. Hearing his apology Astrid decides to forgive him. Then before anything else could happen Hector kissed her and they both felt that tingly falling in love sensation.

Hector knew his mom was one parent who wasn't going to interfere with his date. He was so happy that Astrid still felt the same about him and was willing to forgive him. He wasn't about to let her go again.

A full on teenage make-out session. Ah, young love!

Later they snuck out, Astrid picking him up in a fancy car (Not quite sure where she got that from). They managed to not get caught which was good because although Hector was sure he wouldn't get into trouble, Astrid wasn't so sure her parents would be as understanding.

Back at home Dagmar was making a lot of friends.

Astrid and Anthony worked hard at learning new skills. The podium being used for something besides amplifying burps!

Anthony reaches the top of his teen career working for a local businessman.

True to his early dreams Derek has a piano and makes sure to keep it in tune.

Derek's job is quite physically demanding and he continues to work out hoping for more promotions.

I had to include this photo of Anthony and Astrid looking totally embarrassed at their parents pda.

I love these two photos of the kids showing of their report cards while their dad contorts himself into various yoga positions.

Anthony tries very hard to get his dads attention.

Dagmar meets the grocery delivery guy in her undies, he certainly got an eye full.

Breakfast is a quiet time for the Bertino's.

The upstairs is remodeled with a new bedroom for Dagmar and Derek because the master bedroom/nursery is going to be for Alexander and his future wife.

Bedrooms for the kids.

Exterior views of the house, it certainly has grown from its meager beginnings. The small building at the back is a storage shed for unused items.

The rear view, Dagmar and Derek's room has access to the deck with the hot tub!

Chapter 5: Nina Caliente

2007-08-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

Nina and Dina Caliente were two sisters who lived in Pleasantview. Although they lived together they hardly ever got along, Dina was the favored younger daughter and was focused on money. Nina neglected by her parents when they were younger turned to others to find love.

One day Nina finally decided she needed to find a place of her own and moved to a small trailer where she could be away from her sister and pursue romance without interference.

Target number one was a man that Nina had strong feelings for, the neighborhood bachelor Don Lothario. He was soon visiting Nina frequently at her new home and one day the unexpected happened. Nina was pregnant, she avoided Don and wouldn't see him. She soon gave birth to a baby boy she named Hector. Nina kept to herself during the first years of Hector's childhood and he didn't meet his father until he became a toddler. Nina's life was fairly quite until one day she received a letter from a lawyer telling her that her great aunt Alice had passed away and left her a sizable fortune. Nina lost no time in selling her tiny trailer and purchasing a brand new house for her and Hector who was now a child in school.

Nina was a good mother and spent as much time as she could with Hector, especially since with the inheritance she could afford not to work.

She also spent a great deal of time with Don pursuing her interests. Don Lothario was not exactly an available man, being engaged to the daughter of the town's wealthiest resident, Cassandra Goth, but Nina had no interest in tying herself down to one person.

Nina gave Hector the help and attention she didn't receive from her parents, here helping him with his homework.

Family dinner of mac-n-cheese, discussing a project on rodents Hector was doing for school.

Leisure time, Hector dancing and Nina painting.

While Nina enjoyed looking after her son and spending time with his father, Nina felt the need to further explore her relationships with some of her friends. She started with one of her good friends Darren Dreamer who after the death of his wife and frustrated with loving Don Lothario's fiance Cassandra from afar, welcomed her advances.

Nina was happy with the progress she was making.

Hector's childhood passed quickly and Nina organized a party to celebrate his teen birthday. Hector didn't have any close friends as a child and so the party's guests were friends of his mom's.

Time to blow out the candles.

And wait for the transformation to occur. Hector decided that instead of many partners like his mom had, he wanted to find "The One", get married and have a large family.

Hector was a little overweight when he became a teen but he managed to work off the baby fat, he had to look good if he was going to find the love of his life.

And he certainly managed to reach his goal. He loved swimming in the new pool that his mom had built him as a reward for his good grades.

Hector spent a great deal of time at the local mall trying to meet the girl of his dreams.

But none of them seemed quite right.

Aside from his pursuit of his dream girl Hector spent his time studying, playing the piano and painting.

He was also learning to cook.

It was a bit strange never knowing who his mom might have over.

One of Nina's many partners.

But Hector did his best to ignore the parade of his mothers lovers and instead focused on his piano lessons, art, studying and his search for the perfect girl.

Chapter 4: Growing Up

2007-08-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

With the kids growing up so quickly Derek made sure that he spent as much time as possible with them.

Anthony playing Mary-Mack with a friend from school.

Alexander is a good big brother, here he is reading a story to Anthony, while Astrid studies.

With the kids all in school Dagmar gets a job in the medical field to contribute to the family funds and to get her mind off of a certain maid.

The Bertino children are avid learners, here they are all studying together.

They also have time for some fun, Alexander enjoys dancing with Meadow, a friend from school.

Family dinners have sure come along way from burnt spaghetti for one.

Derek however has not entirely lost his ability to burn food, here he burnt not one but two omelette's in a row!

Ruining two stoves in the process.

Alexander proudly showing off his marks to his Dad and family friend Darren Dreamer.

Birthday time once again in the Bertino household, the twins are becoming teens!

Astrid and Anthony at breakfast after their birthday. Astrid is a popularity sim and Anthony has the wealth aspiration.

Chapter 3: Three Becomes Five

2007-08-09T22:20:00.001-07:00

Alexander was a much loved baby, his father in particular doted on him.

Belly kisses!

First birthday, here come those fun toddler years!

"Fun toddler years" = "fun" things like potty training.

Alexander enjoyed learning new things with his educational toys.

Despite being a romance sim Dagmar was an attentive mom.

Derek helps with every aspect of raising Alexander. Doing some potty training after a long day at work.

Goofing off!

Alexander's first steps.

Still in love, Derek wants to try for another baby.

Dagmar has other things on her mind, like spending a bit more time with the maid while Derek's at work. (A romance sim can't suppress all her urges you know).

Derek was so exited when Alexander learned to talk.

Particularly when he was able to say Daddy!

All too soon it was time for Alexander to grow up and go to school.

Birthday cheers!

Here he goes.

How quickly they grow up. Cleaning up after birthday cake.

Alexander lost no time testing out his burping skills on his Dad's podium.

Getting help with homework.

Derek has his wish, Dagmar is pregnant again and he proudly paints a portrait of her.

Alexander enjoys meeting kids his own age. Playing Mary-Mack with Marsha.

Cops and Robbers

Ha ha, you missed me!

Aaaah you got me!

Derek enjoys meeting Alexander's friends and occasionally challenges them to a chess game.

A nice family dinner.

Now that he's going to be a big brother and soon a teenager, Alexander decides to broach some important topics with his Dad.

Alexander had two friends over when Dagmar went into labor and they all crowded into the bedroom while the maid calmly continues to make the bed.

Toddler birthdays seem to come so quickly.

Wait, there's two of them! Yup, Dagmar had twins Anthony and Astrid making Derek a very happy family sim.

Good thing there are two parents for things like potty training!

And teaching those important skills, here Derek teaches Astrid.

And Dagmar teaches Anthony.

Happily birthday time comes quickly. In some cases too quickly, Alexander grew into a teen without a party or even cake. He is a knowledge sim and is looking forward to helping his siblings as they start school.

Chapter 2: The Wedding

2007-07-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

Derek and Dagmar exchange their vows, taking Dagmar's last name of Bertino. Derek's best friend Darren Dreamer witnessed the wedding.

Toasting the marriage

Cutting the cake.

Not the most elegant of affairs but it was a happy event.

Some neighbors dropped by to wish the newly weds well.

Toasting the bride.

And it's off to the honeymoon, no need to rush I don't think the limo will leave without you!

The happy couple returns from their honeymoon.

A sweet moment in the middle of the road as Dagmar caresses Derek's cheek.

Time to start that family Derek's been wanting.

Discussing improvements for the house, such as flooring.

The newly redecorated home.

One of Derek's colleagues comes over for dinner.

Derek dreaming of his wife.

Suddenly Dagmar was obsessed with eating pancakes.

Sure enough all the cravings were pointing to one thing, Dagmar was pregnant and aside from the pancake cravings she had a very easy pregnancy.

Derek talking to his baby.

Discussing job advancement for Derek.

Dagmar brings up inappropriate topics with the maid.

Entering the final stages of pregnancy.

More pancakes.

The maid seems puzzled by Dagmar's reference to cheating during a chat after the work in the house had been finished.

The happy couple, loving as ever.

Derek uses those magic fingers to ease the tension.

At first there were two . . .

And Baby makes three.

Introducing the first born of the Bertino legacy, Alexander Bertino.

Chapter 1: The Begining

2007-07-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

Derek Underwood's greatest wish was for a stable family life. Growing up with a family that moved around a lot Derek wanted nothing more than to establish himself somewhere where he could put down roots not just for himself but also for his future family. Pleasantview seemed like just the place and he bought a large plot of land using most of his savings. Having little left over he was able to purchase only a few essentials.

With everything set up Derek set to work building the skills he would need to get a decent job.

The first person he met in Pleasantview was the newspaper girl.

Derek recording his thoughts and feelings about his new home to his journal. He had been welcomed to the neighborhood earlier that day by Darren Dreamer, Nina Caliente, and Brandi Broke.

First tragedy, fire! His first fear to occur, he managed to burn his spaghetti dinner.

With a place this small there are few entertainments available, but Derek made due with what he had.

The bonus of not having walls is the freedom to wander while on the phone, the trick is to not forget to hang it up!

Derek is eager to meet more of the eligible women of Pleastview, Nina and Brandi weren't his type. It wasn't long before the mail came and bringing it was the lovely Dagmar. Derek quickly went over and introduced himself.

Daydreaming about the day that he will be able to afford a piano and a proper house to put it in.

Derek's first day of work. After deciding that a career in law enforcement wasn't what he wanted right now he took an entry level position in politics.

Slowly earning money Derek was able to add a bit to his home.

Derek was getting ahead nicely at work and having a few days off he decided to invite Dagmar over for a visit. Derek must have made a good impression because the moment he greeted her she complimented him on how well he was looking.

A little dancing.

After an awkward moment on the couch, in which Derek attempted to cuddle with Dagmar, he decided to take a different approach to wooing her, using his culinary skills instead.

And a massage to ease those tense muscles that you develop while delivering mail.

A shot of the new improvements to his place.

This must be love, sharing their first kiss.

Cuddling on the couch. (Finally!)

Things progress . . . . .

Domestic bliss.

Discussing friendship over a spaghetti dinner that he did not burn!

Further exploring their relationship.

Peaceful and content Derek feels like he has found the girl he wants to marry.

The next morning Derek asks Dagmar to move in with him and be his wife. And Dagmar finally lets her hair down leaving her mail hat behind.

Dagmar meets the maid that Derek hired not wanting his future wife to slave away at household chores.

With the wedding date approaching Derek and Dagmar build an actual home with four walls and a roof with their pooled resources.