The Landgraab Legacy

Landgraab Legacy: Bloodlines

Simsnewbie23 — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 16:03:22 +0000

This is just a bonus chapter so I can trace the entire family line! No plots, no summaries. If you want to know what was what, read the thing!

Nancy and Geoffrey Landgraab gave birth to one more boy after Malcolm.

Alabaster Landgraab. Handsome devil ain’t he?

Alabaster married Brie.

Together they have five children, Esmerelda was the eldest and the one to inherit.

Esmerelda met and married Yves from France.

They had two sons named Phillipe and Jean. Jean would inherit.

Jean would fall in love with and marry Christen, the last of the Goth line.

I threw this picture in because it was the best picture ever, in my opinion I mean.

Together Jean and Christen had four children, two sets of twins. Teddy, Bear, Zappa and Moonbeam. With Jean’s brother Phillipe, Christen had a son named Lucas.

Zappa would inherit and marry Brian Anchor. Lucas stuck around to tell his side of things.

Say hi Lucas.

After Lucas murdered Brian, Allen would take over the legacy.

Allen would marry Alesha. They would have two children together, a daughter and a son.

Eleanora would inherit. Her story takes a big twist because she lived it twice. She married Seth Morrigan, but had children by another man, two from each men. My game went KAPOW! It took me a bit, but I got a new computer. I was able to download her and Seth Morrigan from the exchange (thank goodness I upload them when they hit YA), mix their traits for a fifth daughter Hannah and started a new game.

Hannah ended up marrying her childhood friend Marcus. Together they had three children, Zeus, Jason and Clarissa.

They were a very loving couple.

Clarissa would inherit.

Clarissa would meet and marry her neighbor Alfred.

They had four girls, Barb and then a set of triples: Lizzie, Misty, and Kelly.

Misty would inherit.

Misty would marry her co-worker Horace. Together, they would have six children: a set of triplets, twins and then a lone boy. Alise, Patrica, and Glenna were the oldest. Marie and Maureen came next.

Our final baby born in the legacy, and the one that would have carried it on was Kyle. And in my opinion, he looks a lot like Malcolm!

Malcolm Landgraab of course!

I hope the summary helped! Thanks for everyone that stuck the legacy out and read it. Also, I enjoyed all the comments!

Chapter Thirty-Five: Warning, The End is Near

Simsnewbie23 — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 15:13:43 +0000

Horace loved his boy. He was very hands on coming to Kyle’s training. I don’t blame him really, he is the first boy in this family in a long time. He was also a very easy baby compared to the girls because there was only one of him to watch after. And with seven people in the house there to cuddle and feed, Kyle was well loved.

The girls spent a lot of time doing their own things, yet managed to be close friends to all five of each other. Marie had taken up exercising all the time in preparation for her future ‘plans’ as she put it. It made me nervous the way she would cackle with an evil gleam in her eyes as she said that.

I felt bad when Alise painted a portrait of me and Horace, especially since I had decided I would not utter a word about the legacy. Let them live their own lives!

Birthday’s hit us quickly. I was not ready for my little boy to grow up, but I think it was time for the girls. They each were eager to get out of the house and start their futures on their own terms.

Alise

Glenna

And Patricia each had their own unique looks.

That night we had an unexpected visitor.

Luckily we had an alarm, and the police showed up quickly enough to put that man behind bars.

I mentioned unexpected birthday’s right? Yep, I am now an elder.

Horace didn’t even seem to notice.

Not at all!

My youngest girls were going to be adults too! I was proud of them, yet sad too. It was a reminder how soon this would all be over.

Marie decided to stay on for a bit longer to get her career started. She didn’t tell me in so many words, but I know she joined the criminal career track. Being evil myself, I didn’t mind.

Maureen moved out shortly after to find her own place in the world.

Horace joined me as an elder, and I felt he was more dashing then ever. If I even see him in the room, I usually find myself all over him. We can now have risk free woohoo whenever we want!

There will no longer be any children in this house, and it does make me sad. Nothing to look forward to around here I guess.

Marie insisted on making sure he wasn’t a wimp. In school there had always been the girls to stand up for each other, but Kyle was on his own in high school.

Since the house was empty most days, I liked going out around town to catch up on the latest gossip.

Well, now that Horace was retired I had someone to spend some time with now.

The two of us liked dancing a lot.

I did get a lot of invites to parties from my family. This one is when Kelly threw a bash to celebrate her own retirement. Notice how young Zeus still seems? It’s crazy!

Sometimes I just go visit Kelly. We are still close after all these years! Sure, I see my other sister’s at parties and such, but Kelly and I are best friends.

There her boy Lyle is, what handsome young man he is!

One night Marie brought home a co-worker.

Got married.

Had some fun.

Then moved! I was shocked to say the least, especially since that was Patricia’s fiance!!!

The house was a bit empty with just the three of us. I was sad, but confident I had made the correct decision! No, I’m not saying that over and over to convince myself. I mean it, I really do. This has to end!

Horace insisted we throw one last get together for the family before it was all over.

My Aunt Lizzie showed up pregnant!

As did Maureen!

And of course the newlywed Marie. Not surprising, Patricia did not show. Even though her sister had stolen her man, I’ve heard that Patricia is now engaged to a Barbarrosa boy.

Zeus made his presence known, laughing at everyone in their bathing suits. It’s a swimming party moron! Alise didn’t seem to care much.

Ah, my family, so big and so full of life!

All there, well mostly all, to watch my final child grow up.

My boy, so handsome! He looks a lot like his father.

I even got a chance to catch up with Glenna to see how she was doing. She was dating someone, but had no plans to start a family anytime soon.

This is the last time that Horace got to spend any real time with Kyle. Shortly after, Kyle got a job, and then was off. Something about moving to a new city to start fresh. Where is Bridgeport?

And so the house was now empty, just me and Horace. But for how long?

Again, I am assailed with doubts. Did I do the right thing? Letting all my kids go to enjoy life without the constant demand to tell their stories? Sitting with Horace, I know I did. Besides, if you really are curious and want to know what is going on with the Landgraab clan, just ask. Go up to the one of many cousins or grandchildren and start a conversation. Hey, we are the Landgraabs. We have been around forever, and will continue to grow!

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Added bonus:

This is all the gnomes my family collected. Notice all the vampire gnomes?

Chapter Thirty-Four: Attack of the Vampire Gnomes

Simsnewbie23 — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:27:59 +0000

Maureen and Marie, such lovely girls. They are my youngest, my last children to be born. That is what I keep telling myself and my husband Horace. The man will not stop bugging me about having one more, a boy. I say there is no guarantee we would have a boy, I mean, we’ve had five girls already!

Speaking of my girls, everyday they come home after school and play games with the boys they bring with them. Usually it’s a boy, hardly ever a girl. That boy there, the vampire, is the youngest son of my Uncle Samuel’s. I didn’t even bother learning his name, he just sulks around ignoring mostly everyone.

I’m lucky that my girls do their homework after school with no prompting from me. Reminds me of the days when me, Barb, Kelly and Lizzie were in high school.

And like me and my sister’s, they all pretty much got along. There was very little problems at all. Makes it kind of boring almost.

They also like to work on various skills. Patricia loves to fish whenever she can, and has a dream to have the perfect aquarium. Alise is always painting or sculpting. Glenna, well, she loves her television.

In fact, after homework and dinner, she usually plants herself on the couch and doesn’t move till bedtime. If I want to spend any time with her, that is usually how I have to do it.

One of the few times we actually did something as a family was when I started an impromptu jam session. The little ones couldn’t join in, but they danced and cheered us on. It was really fun.

My sister Lizzie gossiping with one of the girls: check

Horace making drinks: check

Wild dancing in the middle of the living room: check

Me sneaking up on some unsuspecting fool (usually Horace) to scare the bejeezus out of: check

Must be a campaign fundraiser party! Horace seems to throw them all the time now! Always planning and throwing one in the afternoons after getting off work. I guess it helps because he is now Vice President.

This? Yah, that’s me after I’ve had a few of those drinks Horace makes. Not sure what is in them, but I just can’t seem to keep my hands off him.

I think we all know what this picture means right?

And this one. Yep, that man tricked me! It seems he got his wish to have one more. If I have multiples I will neuter him with a rusty screwdriver!

Sometimes after school Marie and Maureen like to skip the fundraisers, and just swim at the local pool.

The two are the best of friends, it’s kind of sweet I guess.

Remember Manual? My great-uncle Jason’s boy? Yep, he is now old. And grumpy.

I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen my sister Barb without her uniform on. She still hasn’t reached the top of her career, poor thing.

Now knowing that I was indeed expecting, I had to bring myself to let people know.

I let each of the girl’s know, and they just didn’t seem to get it. Seems they don’t realize how difficult it is having a little one around. I just hoped that Glenna was right in thinking that by having a single baby, it’d be much easier with so many people around to help.

Visiting my sister Kelly, whom I was still closest to, I found to my great surprise she was also expecting.

Kelly told me she had decided not to marry her boyfriend just because she was pregnant, but he was over most days to help. I was glad for her, she never did seem the type that wanted to settle down like that.

We spent the rest of the afternoon catching up, and just hanging out. I missed having Kelly around all the time!

When I told Horace another one was expected, he was ecstatic! He just couldn’t stop playing with my belly, insisting that our ‘son’ was on the way.

One day I noticed that Marie wouldn’t stop talking to this Lord boy that one of her sister’s had brought home. Seems she was smitten by him. I didn’t like him.

A bit annoying that he was there when my girls grew up.

And very receptive to her advances now that she was around his age. I REALLY don’t like him.

Maureen

Marie. Two more girls to worry about when it comes to all the boys in town. How did my parents do it with us girls?

Can you blame me for not liking him? Not only does he make drinks at our house when the rest of us were sleeping, he then passed out on our bench! Where were the police?

When I went to Horace about it, he reassured me that the girls were smart and they could handle a boy like him. Still wasn’t too sure myself, but I’ll trust him. Horace usually knows people and how they will act.

What’s going on here? Another fundraiser! This time Horace wanted to showcase our pool, the show off. Notice the suddenly skinny Kelly? She had left her son Lyle home with his Dad, taking the night off to cover Horace’s latest run for office.

Remember this boy? Yah, seems even though he is a cousin, Patricia really likes him.

She even asked him to go steady! I will have to put my foot down on this one; he is family not to mention a vampire!

Yep, it was time.

Everyone, meet little Kyle Landgraab. I couldn’t help naming him similar to Kelly’s boy. I found it amusing, Horace was just happy to finally have a son.

Remember the scary vampire gnomes? Seems they turn teddy bears into vampire gnomes! I refuse to buy anymore, there are just too many of them running around now as it is!

The girls were right, this time around having a baby was so much easier! With seven of us to care for Kyle, I had time to relax and dance or fool around with Horace. It felt nice.

I also had time to cook meals for the girls in the morning and the afternoon, which they appreciated while doing homework.

It seems that Alise found something to distract her from painting or sculpting. I again do not know this fellows name, but he comes home most days with the girls. Alise has bit of a crush on him I think.

Horace is so proud of our son, even though he realizes we’ll be elders before Kyle is out of high school. I’m glad that I could give this final child to Horace.

Yep, ANOTHER one.

Horace is such a social butterfly.

I was personally disgusted by this shocking behavior at a party for her Dad, Marie should know better!

Kyle has grown up into a toddler now.

He’s an adorable boy, and I do love him a lot. It has gotten me thinking though. Was it fair that my Mother made me keep this journal for people to know about our lives? What do I owe them that they expect to know all the details of my life, and that of my children’s? Nothing! I owe them nothing! Every penny we have we worked hard for, and it seems unfair that they think they have a right to know what exactly we do with our lives.

I’m beginning to wonder if I will even mention to any of my children about this ‘legacy’ thing. Maybe, just maybe, I will allow them to do anything they want with their lives. To move out, and like Kelly, live how THEY want to without answering to anyone.

It’s definitely food for thought.

Chapter Thirty-Three: And I was like whatever

Simsnewbie23 — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 23:01:24 +0000

My family is stinking rich. How rich? So rich, we own half the town and we still have enough cash lying around to make a Scrooge McDuck kind of swimming pool. The paparazzi were driving me crazy too, there were just too many around. With that in mind, my honey, sister and the girls all packed up and moved to a nice new house on the edge of town. Maybe I’ll invest in a fence or something down the road.

Things were going great for the girls, they had learned all the important skills in life. You know, walking, pooping in places other then their pants or out back, and gossiping.

I would even spend time reading to them when I could. It was a good way to bond, especially since I was stuck inside the house with them all day, ALONE! Not that I was bitter. Hell, Horace was a great husband. He took really good care of me.

Which is how the other girls came. Yep, I said girls, as in more then one.

Twins. I told Horace if he though of bringing his woohoo tool near me again for a long long time (during child bearing age) I would make sure it didn’t work ever again.

Everyone, meet my new family additions little Marie and Maureen Landgraab. They will be the last of this generation or I will end up killing someone.

Maybe because I was sleep deprived caring for five small children, I missed out on taking pictures. So sue me okay! Not that you care to see anymore shitting shots, or cute little walking photos. Just trust me when I say with the help of Kelly, Horace and I got all the kids the love, food and clean diapers they needed.

Who cares if I didn’t get a cake put out when the girls reached their birthdays? Any of them.

Kelly and Patricia there were the best buds, spending a ton of time gossiping. Probably about me the jerks.

Alise here loved playing tag with her Dad. I could tell her about a game of ‘tag’ he liked playing with me, but I’m sure she’d cry about being mentally scarred or something.

Here is some proof that Horace and I spent time with the new ones, just in case you were thinking about calling children’s services on me or anything. That’s me behind Kelly, and Horace is, well, somewhere. Forgive me if I get a bit mean or belligerent with you, I’m running on very little sleep here.

I do feel bad for my sister Kelly, she does do so much for the family. Luckily she got herself a man.

She had met him earlier at the park, and went to visit and get a possible interview for her job.

Boy did she get a scoop!

I have noticed something rather disturbing. Every day I would put new teddy bears in the baby cribs to keep them company at night. They keep disappearing. Can you see what is in it’s place?

Here is a closer look. Scary huh? I only hope I don’t come in one day to find my babies gone too!

I’ll admit, I do love my girls. All five of them have such distinct personalities. How am I ever supposed to choose one for an heir? And should I? Why make them do this when they should be allowed to live their own lives?

Notice that vampire kid? Yah, Patricia brought him home from school. Seems he was my Uncle Samual’s kid from that vampire paparazzi that stalked my Mom back in the day. He now goes to school with the girls, but I didn’t bother catching his name. I can’t stand vampires.

More evidence I do bother with my kid’s skills and such.

Here I’m telling her that if she ever gets pregnant by a guy, she shouldn’t feel the need to get married. Thankfully Horace wasn’t around when I said it. Can you believe the guy is now trying to pressure me into giving him ten kids? TEN KIDS! Is he insane?

Okay, he does look good in his underwear. Maybe I’ll just let him think I’m giving in, but secretly ensure I can’t get pregnant.

Well well well, look who got her wish of being a Star News Anchor. Good for her, she deserves something I guess.

She stuck around for a few more days, but then moved out to live with her boyfriend whatisname.

It is so rare to see the girls all at the table together. Horace tries to eat with them as much as he could.

I cooked them things to eat before school and in the afternoon for when they got home. I had to make sure my girls got good stuff right?

Alise decided she wanted to paint all on her own, which is good I guess. Someone needs to make those dang heir portraits right? Mom always insisted, but I don’t see the point. I’m really beginning to think that this whole legacy thing is for the dogs, yet a lifetime of guilt keeps me at it.

Wow, maybe one more baby? NO no no! I will not let his fantastic good looks sway me!

Horace decided to throw a campaign fund raiser. We invited a lot of the family and a few friends over. It was my idea to put in a dance floor and some special effect machines.

As you can see Kelly and the girls really loved the floor.

No, I wasn’t asking my own uncle for his autograph…uhm, I just had lost his number and needed a new copy of it. That’s all, I swear.

He seemed to like spending time in the baby room rather than dancing or dealing with the crowd.

In total, Horace was able to bring in $55,000 for his campaign fund! Crazy isn’t it? I guess all that family and friends being rich pays off.

Okay, they are adorable aren’t they? Maybe just one more….NOOOOOOOOO!

Glenna

Patricia

And Alise were now teenagers. I hope they were as tame as me and Barb, and not like Lizzie. They were lookers too, I better keep an eye on them. Maybe make them take part time jobs to keep them busy.

And before I knew it, my little ones followed suit in aging up.

Marie

And Maureen were now in school. This left me with a lot of time on my hands now. What to do? I had learned all the recipes I could, and we left our family garden behind. I didn’t fancy fishing much.

I did visit family. Lizzie and Uncle Zeus still lived alone, and partied too much. I was constantly getting invites to parties I just didn’t have the energy to attend.

Sometimes I also visited the local park. Why not get to know some of the people around town? Maybe find some decent boys for my girls.

Maybe like this guy who stood around posing for the entire afternoon I was there. NOT!

Or maybe these two….oh wait, they are my cousins Manual and Roberto. Sheesh Roberto, get out of the sun you moron!

Nope, family.

Oh well, I guess they will have to get out and do that on their own without my help. This lady? Now she needed my help. I did all I could to cheer her up, I understood loss of family. What would I do without…uhm…you know..that guy who gave me five kids? Right, Horace.

I’ll just work on my physique while Horace is at work, and the girls at school. Maybe it’ll help me get that final star in the celebrity ranking. Not that I care mind you, but a goal is a goal when you are bored like me.

Chapter Thirty-Two:What’s in the Box

Simsnewbie23 — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 19:58:29 +0000

That there is my Uncle Zeus Landgraab. If you can’t tell, he’s a vampire, something which I can not stand. I think they are nasty nasty things and it bugs me to no end my Mom won’t make him move out. Sure, he eats those blood fruits instead of feeding on sims, but what if one day he snapped?

My sister Lizzie thinks he’s great though. The two of them are thicker than theives. Sure, there was a time when I looked up to my Uncle, we used to share all the local gossip. That was until the time he spread a rumor about ME Misty Landgraab.

I am not a sim that easily forgives or forgets.

My Mom told me all about this Legacy crap, and how it was up to me to carry on the Landgraab name. I really could care less, but I’ll humor the old bag. Most of the time she’s playing with toys, my Dad or dancing like an idiot at The Grind.

Most of the time dear old Uncle Zeus hangs out there as well. Look at him stalking up on those women, it is just unnerving.

In celebration of growing up and jazz, Dad surprised me and my sisters Kelly and Lizzie with a trip to Egypt.

I spent most of it fishing. I wanted to catch some news kinds not available in Barnacle Bay.

Lizzie, the one always trying so hard to get attention from anyone (Uncle Zeus, the paparrazi, men) spent most of it talking to locals at the marketplace.

Kelly went off doing chores for the locals. She called them adventures, I called them being a lackey.

She got her just desserts though when a mummy caught her going through his stash. Serves her right the fool! It was lucky for her that she didn’t get cursed or turned into one of them.

I got fed up and insisted we go home as soon as possible, even in Egypt the paparazzi wouldn’t give us a moment peace. I swear, I didn’t choose to be part of this family! Who cares if my ancestors have been around longer then who knows when, I want some quiet okay?

But back to my uncle Zeus. He just couldn’t help himself, his animalistic nature finally came through.

He met a girl and Mom was so happy for him. Maybe he’d finally get over some old bat who died years ago and find some new love.

We would never know first hand because my sister Lizzie just wouldn’t leave him be.

She begged him to turn her one day.

And he did of course.

It took her a few days, but she became just like him. I fought about it with Mom pointing out that it would only be a matter of time before he turned all of us. We’d all be living in crypts out back.

What finally convinced her was my pointing out that what if I had kids and they all wanted to be like him? Obviously the idea of practical immortality was just too good to pass up for Lizzie. So, that night, both Lizzie and Zeus were sent packing. They bought a house outside town, and I hear they throw parties all the time.

I work in the education field. I love the idea of being able to shape the minds of future leaders. What of it if I give them an idea now and then that would be considered less then moral.

My boss must have taken notice because he insisted I get to know some of my fellow teachers.

That is how I met Horace Williams. If knew what I know now, I probably never would have gone over there.

Handsome isn’t he? I thought so too. I figured I’d follow my boss’ advice to the letter and get to now him, if you know what I mean.

Thought I’d show you just in case you didn’t. Too late to forget now isn’t it? MWAHAHAHAHAHA. Sorry, I can’t help myself sometimes.

Yah well, you can guess what happened. The guy, a teacher mind you, forgot to use protection and now I’m in the ‘family’ way.

Mom and Dad were ecstatic. The thing is, they insisted I invite the fellow over and make him ‘do right by me’. I figured he’d laugh in my face, because that is what I would have done.

Instead he was excited for me. He seems to be a family orientated sim. Great, just like Dad.

Before I knew it, I was a wife. How do you like that?

Poor Kelly was upset. Mom and Dad both had voiced a wish to see her married, and yet all she did was work like the little workaholic she is.

Even though she asked me to have him stop dancing in his underwear around the house, I never suggested it. I love the pain it caused her, and if she was really that unhappy with it, she could move.

Being as he didn’t really have anything else to do, Dad spent most of his time making those stupid sculptures. Whatever, it brought in good money.

My poor silly husband, it’s a good thing he was so good looking or I’d give him a hard time. He did treat me really good though, constantly giving me massages when my back ached. I swear, this kid better hurry up already, I’m tired of being pregnant!

This kid better be thankful for their Dad because I don’t intend of having anything to do with it once it comes around. After all, HE’s the family orientated one.

Before you know it, it was time. For someone looking forward to being a Dad, he sure had no clue when I went into labor. I had to practically scream at him to call a taxi.

FRICKING FRACKING TRIPLETS!

There you go ladies and gentlemen, my triplet daughters Patricia, Alise and Glenna. Don’t ask me which is which, can’t tell here. They all look like sausage in blankets to me.

Good thing for them that Kelly was still at home to help.

Horace couldn’t keep his hands off them, when he wasn’t working that is. He was now on the fast track in politics.

Whenever Mom or Horace asked why I wasn’t helping, I claimed I had to keep the garden up. In Egypt I had a whole bunch of new fruit and seeds to harvest.

I don’t know how she did it, but Kelly still found time to do reviews and interviews for her job. She was fast moving up the career ladder. I think Mom convinced her to not move out to help with the girls, especially since both her and Dad were getting up in age.

Speaking of which, while checking on one of the girls Dad suddenly decided it was his time.

Okay, HE didn’t decide it was time, the Grim Reaper did.

And of all the nerve, after taking my best in house babysitter, I mean Dad, the Grim Reaper took the time to ask me for an autograph! Seriously? I was not amused.

Later that night Mom swears Dad visited and reassured her that they would soon be together.

It wasn’t too long in fact. And yes, I AM wearing maternity wear there.

I was feeling a bit down after the death of Dad, seems I missed the old bugger more then I thought I would. Horace promised to make me feel better, and boy did he!

Needless to say another squealing kid will soon be here. If I have another set of triplets I’m gonna leave!

Kelly wasn’t that interested in my new pregnancy, but Horace couldn’t stop going on about it. Seems he wants five of them! Really? I don’t think so!

If you’ll excuse me, there are three very demanding girls that need my attention no matter how much I wish to avoid it. I guess they aren’t really too bad, and thankfully Horace is around to help. Kelly pitches in when she can, but I can already see she wants out.

Until next time I guess.

Chapter Thirty-One: Check This Out!

Simsnewbie23 — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:11:46 +0000

Here we are again. The family bar The Grind is doing okay, but we are constantly being asked to visit and dance for hours to strum up business. It is so easy for my agent to forget that I have four girls that need my attention, not to mention a brother who is a vampire yet constantly hangs out in the sun where he almost burns away. I think he secretly wants to end it all, and I hurt for him.

Sometimes Alfred will meet me down at The Grind, other times he just goes himself to dance. It does exhaust us both, but luckily I only work once a week so I have time to rest during the day. Alfred can rest whenever, but it does give him less time to sculpt.

Though Zeus still cares for the garden late at night, it has shrunk since Mom’s days. Maybe one of the girls will take it up and find more plants to grow after high school.

My eldest Barb has graduated and is so lovely. She got a job at the local Bistro, which wasn’t too hard since we are partners in it. She called a friend because she was so excited, it felt like she was finally making something out of her life.

Her friend agreed to meet her at the local beach, but being a vampire, he didn’t stay too long. Barb was disappointed, so came home and spent the rest of the evening studying her cookbooks.

I couldn’t help myself, I just got so sick of the paparazzi hanging around our house constantly, taking pictures and making nasty rumors up about my family.

I showed her who was boss, but it didn’t discourage her from coming around. Nothing seems to discourage that bunch.

The other day I noticed this little gnome moving around. I find it in new places every day. I assume Zeus is playing a trick on me, but as long as it doesn’t harm us, I don’t really care.

It seems every afternoon the girls come home from school with excitement. They do their homework and then promptly start reading books, or typing on the computer or even playing games. I’m proud of them.

The other day I noticed my brother Jason’s boy walking down the street. His clothing choice was oddly old fashioned, but he did look rather handsome I guess. Manuel is a good boy at least.

Suddenly it was my time to join Alfred in the ranks of elder. I still worried about my girls, but it gave me a chance to retire. Being in space, while great, was very exhausting.

I was now able to spend more time relaxing or with the girls.

At night all Zeus does anymore is either go to someones party, or visit local bars or The Grind. You’d think he’d have lots more friends, but most of the time he just ends up creeping them out.

Alfred has started focusing on sculpting in ice. He claims it’s because when he uses stone, he just ends up breaking it into pieces. At least with ice, it isn’t such a major loss.

The things he makes are very cute and fantastical, too bad the girls don’t really pay attention. He ends up just selling them before they melt.

Well, it was that time already. The girls were going to be adults now!

We invited a large crowd over, most of the guests were kind, but some were just plain rude. It was still rated as a roof raiser in the local paper, and no police showed to break it up thankfully.

Jason’s eldest boy Roberto showed, and I was surprised to see he had joined the vampire ranks just as Zeus had.

Manuel seems to have changed his fashion a bit, thankfully.

Kelly is just lovely. She quickly got a job in the journalism track.

Lizzie grew up rather lovely, but hasn’t decided on any career other then being a star celebrity.

And Misty, the loveliest and kindest of them all has joined the education track. She said being a teacher gave her the time to focus on her love of learning new recipes and reading cookbooks. When I shared the news of her being the heir to the family fortune, she was very calm. I’m sure as she gets older, she will understand and appreciate that more.

Alfred had been invited to his brother’s for a party, and while there witnessed the death of a fellow party goer.

Alfred later confessed to me that all he could do was think about how he wanted to carve a statue of the grim reaper out of clay.

One day while at the library, Misty confided she suddenly felt fulfilled with life. Now that she knew all the recipes she wanted to learn, she was widening her interests. She now was focused on fishing and even gardening. I bet that made Zeus happy to hear!

Lizzie was always out, sometimes at the clubs other times just in town. That is where she learned that her uncle Samuel was devastated over the loss of his girlfriend, one of those paparazzi fools. I didn’t voice it like that mind you, but honestly, those people need to back off!

While out dancing, Lizzie met a cute fellow. “But he’s married Mom!” She told me sadly. It was just so hard to find love for my girls. I worried for all of them.

Luckily Lizzie was easily distracted by the attention her ‘fans’ gave her.

Now that Misty was the new heir, I was focused on making her understand all the new responsibilities that came with it, namely a husband and children. Not to mention recording it all!

I couldn’t depend on Alfred to help me get the message across, he was so busy making new drinks to name after family and friends.

And Zeus was constantly taking on new interests to waste time on. His new idea was to learn every instrument and maybe start a band down the road. It is so strange seeing him appear so young while both Jason and I are elders now!

Lizzie was starting to get a little out of hand with her partying ways. I only hoped she found someone to settle her down with soon!

Why couldn’t she be more like Kelly? She worked and then studied her craft whenever she could. She now had five published books!

Though she did take time to relax and listen to Zeus whenever she could.

Now that Zeus was so focused on his music, it seemed that Lizzie started taking his place at the various parties.

And when he wasn’t playing new songs, he was encouraging the girls to keep in shape. That was the last time he spent any real time with Barb, because she decided to move out shortly after. “I have a great job Mom, it’s time I start my own life.”

I promised to visit as much as I could, but it was very hard to let her go. It will be very hard to let any of them go.

While both Kelly and Misty have solid heads on their shoulders, I will worry about Lizzie the most. That girl is just flaky.

In the end though, I know I made the right decision in trusting Misty to carry on the family legacy. I am handing over the reigns and will always hope for the best. Now, if you’ll excuse me, there is a toy boat calling my name.

Chapter Thirty: You Drive Me Insane

Simsnewbie23 — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 20:16:51 +0000

I love my girls, don’t get me wrong, but at times, they make me insane. Alfred, who has always been a bit of a family orientated type, loves them and constantly spends time with them. I try, I do, but there are times I just want to go away and settle down with a toy of my own to play with.

I was very startled one day when Alfred came home after a visit with my brother Jason and his family to tell me Jason was now an elder! I guess I was so surprised because Zeus is still so young in appearance. I guess being a vampire is a nice thing after all.

While playing tag with Misty, Barb suddenly aged up into a teenager. I could feel dread filling my belly if all the stories around town are true. Will having four teenage girls in the house drive us equally insane?

I also worried because she was a looker. Thankfully, Barb had a level head on her shoulders. Long ago she had decided to follow Granny Elly’s path and be a celebrated five star chef. When she wasn’t at school or doing homework, you could find her studying cook books.

When there was time, the little we had I mean, Alfred and I would sneak off to the Grind and dance the night away. It was fun, and it didn’t hurt that we had a stake in the bar and needed it to be successful.

Misty, Kelly and Lizzie loved spending the weekends playing tag. Okay, I will admit it, I joined in and most of the time I started the game.

Before either Alfred or I were ready, the triplets entered the teenage years as well.

Kelly loved hearing all the stories of the townsfolk, and loved writing so she decided that she would one day be a Star News Anchor.

This meant she spent most of her days and spare time at the computer honing her writing skills. I tried to convince her she would also need to work hard at charisma to easily earn the trust of people while interviewing them, but she was more interested in typing the days and nights away.

I did hear her on the phone the other day talking with a boy. I was excited until I heard it was just her uncle, but she sure did get into the story concerning the football game she won tickets to at school.

One weekend evening she even made it to the grind where she ran into my boss.

She spent most of the night talking his ear off, and asking him so many questions that I worried he may get angry at me!

Lizzie was my most outgoing of the bunch. It was her greatest dream to be a five star celebrity in our little town of Barnacle Bay. She also went on and on about being worth over $100,000 until I pointed out we were almost worth a half million.

When her uncle Zeus wasn’t glued to the easel, I would sometimes find Lizzie there. I think she was convinced she personally needed to earn that $100,000.

Of all the girls, Lizzie was closest to her sister Kelly. The two usually ate together, and did homework before going off to do their own things.

At times I found her glued to the dart board, playing alone for hours if no one else showed any interest in being beaten by her again.

And the Grind, the only real dance club in town, was always a destination for all the girls.

It didn’t take long for Lizzie to find the hot tub and make use of it. It made her feel rich and important she claimed. I just rolled my eyes and went back to sinking my toy ship.

My last triplet girl was Misty. I had to admit that it was surprising how all four girls looking so different!

After watching her older sister read so many cook books and talk endlessly about cooking new recipes, Misty made it her mission to know every recipe out there to cook. After Barb would finish a book, Misty would quickly snap it up to look through herself.

She would also spend hours watching the cooking channel. The thing with Misty is she was very shy, and had trouble talking to others, even her own sisters at times.

Only Barb was able to convince her to go to the club one night, and it was only that one night she went. “It was too loud Mom” was her only reply when I asked if she’d like to go again.

She just got too anxious all the time if any of the other girls brought someone home from school. Strangers just made her so nervous she would get up and hide until they were gone or be very grumpy.

Though she was very close with her uncle Zeus. That worried me a lot when she was a child, but even more so now. What if she convinced him to turn her into one too? I mean, she loved how he had his own crypt, and spent time outside of it only during the night?

As time passed, I did worry a little less because she started spending more time with her sisters.

One day I was shocked when she called to ask if she could spend the afternoon at a boys house!

But in the end, it was always her Uncle Zeus she would turn to when she knew a juicy rumor or had a funny story to tell. The two were thick as thieves sometimes.

Alfred did speak to her about it one day, and she must have reassured him because he never seemed to worry about it.

I know what you think, I should probably worry about Barb more. For some reason she had an unnatural obsession with everything vampire. Whenever she made it to the Grind, she seemed to seek out any vampire in the room.

But I never found myself worrying too much, she was always the one cleaning up dirty dishes or the counter.

She was also the one that was always cooking breakfast for the girls before school.

This is a good picture of all the kids together. I never really get a chance to sit down and eat a full meal with them.

Alfred mostly spent the days at home working hard at his sculpting career.

He also tried to visit with his brother as much as he could so the two would still be close in the years to come. It seems that his brother never married even after Alfred had moved out.

He also focused on keeping me close if you know what I mean.

This strapping young man is my nephew Manuel, Jason’s youngest with his wife. He liked to come over and spend time with us when he could.

Though I love that Alfred is able to work from home with his sculpting, I did get upset when he got a job from “the family” for three wooden statues. He promised to not take an assignment from them again, even if the money was good.

He did earn an award from the city mayor the other day, and he shows it off with pride.

What about me you ask? Once I was able to again focus on work, I moved up the ranks extremely fast.

And I finally got to see the stars up close and personal. Mom would be so proud of me!

What? I needed to unwind, being in space for almost a whole day can be rather stressing.

And what about my brother you ask? When he isn’t painting or maxing out some skill, he is going to parties around town or talking to himself.

Talking to himself by the laundry is his favorite pastime it seems.

He does get rather angry when the paparazzi somehow manage to get in the house. Nothing sets him off more then them harassing his nieces.

His garden was getting rather exotic with the omniplants giving books as fruit!

Suddenly it happened. Alfred was becoming an elder! How time seems to just fly and I feel like I’m only beginning to get to know my girls and enjoying life. Until next time folks!

**********************************
Editors note: I do have an heir poll. If you are unable to vote on the website, add your selection in the comments here and I will tally them in. Thanks for everyone who takes the time to read my legacy!

Heir Poll

Chapter Twenty-Nine: A Dancing Fool

Simsnewbie23 — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:34:00 +0000

Hi there, uhm, my name is Clarissa Landgraab. Okay, this is rather hard for me. I am totally not an author or writer, my brother Jason would be so much better at this. Heck, he has three kids already! He has this whole legacy thing down pat, but my Mom insists it is up to me to carry on the family name and to record every little detail. Fine, whatever, here goes, and please forgive me if it is boring. I’m more of a factual kind of gal.

That Vampire I’m talking to? He’s my oldest brother Zeus, and he has already reached the top of his career. Being that sunlight, you know, kills vampires he quit his job. He now likes to paint during the day and garden at night. I worry having him around, but it’s kinda nice at the same time.

My husband (the hunk in the robe) Alfred actually enjoys talking to Zeus, but he is just a laid back kind of guy I guess.

Mom spends most of her time painting while being adored by fans that seem to just flock to our house. I really want to institute some kind of security but Mom says they are harmless.

Zeus still really misses Dad, and just wanders around the house during the day.

It happened too fast for me, but pretty much as Mom predicted. We had just barely finished mourning Dad when suddenly, she was gone too.

Don’t hate me for taking the opportunity to speak with and play tag with the Grim Reaper. He had just taken both my parents within days of each other, but it was just so much fun!

We put their graves out back near Grandma, close so we could mourn them better.

I met with Jason in town to tell him about Mom’s passing. I got to see my youngest nephew, and like his siblings he had his mother’s hair and eyes.

I was a bit upset with Jason for his poor reaction for Mom’s passing, he just was too busy with his own family I guess.

Even in my grief, I had time with Alfred to create new life. I wanted a boy, he wanted a girl.

Most of the time Alfred was out back playing around on the new bar he had installed. It was his dream to be a top mixologist, and to own a bar in town.

To help with Alfred’s dreams, Zeus went into town and bought the only bar there, The Grind.

It wasn’t too long before we needed to take a trip to the local hospital.

Alfred couldn’t keep his hands off little Barb, and I’ll admit, it was fun having a baby.

So much so that I wanted another one! What? I like playing with their toys, and I guess they are soft and cuddly too.

Stupid Paparazzi always dying on our lot, I wish they’d just go away already!

Zeus has started visiting the local hospital to entertain the children there. It has helped him gain more celebrity around town, but that only meant more of the stupid paparazzi hanging around.

I was happy when I got to tell Alfred another bundle was on the way. Sure, it meant more time away from work, but I knew I had time to reach the stars. For Mom and Dad I would ensure the family line first.

With no real job now except to care for the garden, Zeus spent most of his time at the bar. He was constantly upgrading it, and spent a lot of time learning new dance moves.

Shortly after Alfred learned all he could about mixing drinks and reaching his life goal, he focused full time on our daughter Barb. He was insistent that he teach her everything which was cool with me, I had to keep checking the toys to make sure they were safe.

For some reason Alfred also took up sculpting, it was his way of making more money. With the purchase of the bar, we had cleaned out most of our funds.

I bet you are wondering where all those kids came from am I right? Yep, I had triplets this time around.

As you can guess the care was so hectic I had trouble keeping pictures and stuff, everyone had to pitch in, even Zeus. Thank goodness he was here to help! Those kids were little monsters, constantly needing something. I had hardly anytime for anything else!

I mean, even the maid had to pitch in sometimes!

Don’t worry about dear Barb, Zeus made sure she had attention.

Her hair grew out, and he put them in pigtails. He is such a great Uncle.

But let me introduce your to the horde. The black haired girl is Kelly, the two red heads are Misty and Lizzie. All three of us adults had to pitch in and teach the girls all their skills, it was hard work and no play let me tell you! Thank goodness the army was understanding and let me take extra time off.

Poor Barb didn’t get a birthday party when she aged into a child. She understood with all the madness, and was just happy to finally get her own room.

The next day she brought home a friend from school, a vampire! I guess spending so much time with her uncle has desensitized her to the threat of them.

He was always out these days at various parties. He took up the guitar that my Dad had left, and seemed to love jam sessions.

I guess because she had so much time to herself, little Barb took up cooking and selling goodies and treats. She even told Zeus that it was now her dream to be a celebrated five star chef, much like Grandma was.

Finally it was time, time for girls to age up into children which meant more time for me to play with the toys.

And much like Barb, Misty loved her uncle, constantly following him around and chatting.

To give the girls their own room, Zeus built a room underground for himself to sleep during the day. It was out back, and it was very dark which is what he liked most. After raising those girls from toddlers, it was time for me to finally return to work. I was fine with that, but I do dread having four teen girls around!

Chapter Twenty-Eight: The Right Story

Simsnewbie23 — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:37:42 +0000

To say I was blown away by the letter I had found from my mother is an understatement. My father had been insane, and had killed my entire family with my Mom barely escaping to a new life. No wonder she had always been so scared, constantly looking over her shoulder. Even knowing he had been dead, she probably relived the nightmare night after night and feared that somehow he had survived. I began to really take the time and appreciate the family that I had.

My husband and I took advantage of having three children either working or at school, and had some fun in the hot tub.

Thankfully there were no paparazzi around at the time.

My daughter-in-law Maritza was now expecting, much to the delight of everyone. I was going to be a grandmother! My son Jason would be a Dad!

Poor Zeus was having problems with his girlfriend, she refused to marry him. “I’m so much older then you.” was her reasoning, but he didn’t care. Children was not something he really wanted in his future, but she was stubborn.

With the baby on the way, Jason worked hard at becoming an Illustrious Author, either painting or writing any spare moment he had. He wanted a nice nest egg before he and his wife bought a house and moved out. I was sad to hear it, but he felt it was for the best.

Suddenly it happened, I became an elder just like my beloved Marcus.

It was the same time that Maritza gave birth to Rhianna, my first granddaughter! I secretly hoped for at least four more, but had given up on Zeus giving me any. He was still madly in love with his girlfriend, but she had now become an elder as well.

Suddenly my youngest Clarissa was now a teenager! Thankfully Jason stayed around a bit longer, so I could spoil my granddaughter, and help with the feeling of an empty nest.

I loved reading to her about painting and art. With Jason constantly covered in paint, or squinting from staring at the computer, it helped her understand what he was doing.

Clarissa was constantly working out, and after stargazing one night, she decided she wanted to be an Astronaut.

“I need to be at the peak of my physical ability if I want to see the stars up close and personal Mom.”

Now that those stupid paparazzi were constantly at my front door trying to get a picture of us doing something bad, it was bound to happen. They would be so eager to catch us at our worst, they sometimes wouldn’t eat for days! The Grim Reaper seemed a constant companion of late.

I guess the stress was just too much for my daughter-in-law. She was again pregnant, and Jason had finally reached his life dream. They had built a nice nest egg, and Jason was still pumping out his best sellers, so the family moved.

Well, they moved next door. I was happy to have them close by, and couldn’t wait for the new baby to arrive.

Zeus and Clarissa were always talking when not working on exercising or other things. Zeus was now keeping the garden up since Mom was gone, and fishing when he could find time. He was working hard at getting promotions at the science lab, trying to get his dream of cross breading robots realized.

The two got along great because they were working on the handy skill, and shared books about how to fix things around the house.

When I could, I would have Rhianna come over to spend time with her. She was getting so big, and I was so proud of her.

Marcus had always dreamed of being a grand guitar player, so he took it back up and began playing for tips around town. We didn’t really need the money, but it brought him great joy when he would bring change home at night.

I visited the local graveyard to drop off more of the starving paparazzi remains, and ended up exploring the catacombs. I also chatted up with a few of the locals, they were very polite in not mentioning my messy appearance.

With Zeus hitting his life dream, and pulling in lots of money now, he insisted we rebuild the house. He wanted it bigger to make room for future children. With his girlfriend passing, he insisted he wouldn’t be looking for a spouse. “I really loved her Mom.”

But, with Clarissa being such a looker, he knew it wouldn’t be long before she found someone.

We threw a party for Clarissa, and it was a way to show off the new house.

Jason and his growing family showed up to celebrate. Their son Roberto had been born shortly after the move, but he was at home with a babysitter.

My daughter, so lovely, and so smart! She joined the armed forces right away, and worked hard at topping both her physical skill and handiness. I was sure she’d see the stars before any of us knew it!

Marcus and I were just happy that we had successfully raised such a lovely family together. Everyone was so happy and well off, even after knowing what we did about my father and siblings. I think Mom would be happy knowing how things had turned out.

Poor Clarissa seemed to feel the pressure to fill our house with children’s laughter because she was constantly out at night visiting the local dance club The Grind.

She would dance the night away, but never seemed able to find anyone interesting enough that wasn’t taken or old.

Marcus and I usually spent the day together, playing darts or in the hot tub.

Since Marcus was such a couch potato, we bought ourselves a game system and played that together a lot too.

Clarissa went over to introduce herself to a couple of brothers who had just moved into the neighborhood, and she met Alfred. She was smitten from the get go.

The two spent all day chatting and flirting, and suddenly were an item. I was so happy for my daughter!

Zeus, who liked going around town at night, had a bit of a run in with a vampire. She attacked him before he could even react. I worried that soon he too would be a creature of the night.

The next night, Clarissa went out on a date with Alfred. They had dinner at the local Bistro.

And then visited the grind where Clarissa popped the question. He agreed.

As the two exchanged vows, something horrible happened.

Well two things actually, poor Zeus transformed into a vampire. And at the same time:

My beloved Marcus left us. Oh how I dread the Grim Reaper, visiting to again take someone so important to me! How could he? We were not ready, giving us no time to enjoy the new marriage of our youngest.

Alfred seemed to have no trouble settling into the family, even as we mourned the massive loss of my husband. I fear this may be my last update in my journal, for I sometimes feel a cold chill that will not go away. I just hope that I have time to see at least a fourth grandchild, because my son Jason and his wife had a second son the other day. Well, I am off to visit the new baby now.

Chapter 27: Today of All Days

Simsnewbie23 — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 00:16:20 +0000

I was kept busy, very busy as a private detective. It seems there area lot of book thieves and untrustworthy spouses and friends in Barnacle Bay. Luckily I knew I could trust my Marcus.

Everyone else in town? I’m not sure I’d trust them to save me if it came down to that. Luckily, they were nice enough if my husband or I needed friends or advice.

While in town at the city park, Marcus was interrupted from convincing a friend to vote for the hospital tax to help pay for a new wing. The Grim Reaper made his presence known, causing another poor fellow to faint. Marcus told me how helpless he felt, even as a trained doctor he was unable to do anything for the dying man. I tried to reassure him that no matter what, everyone has to go sometime.

But it got me thinking, what about Mom? I knew there was something she was not telling me, but would she tell me before it was too late and she was gone forever?

It wasn’t but a week later when an old friend of Mom’s from work came to visit. It seemed it was his time as well, and the Grim Reaper would not take any pleading on his behalf.

Shortly afterward Mom pulled me aside and I felt she was finally going to tell me something, but she stopped and hugged me instead.

Time again began to pass without much thought on the matter. I continued solving local mysteries, and even earned a few statues in recognition for my work by city hall.

The boys were getting so big, and were the best of friends. I think that it was obvious that something just wasn’t right with Zeus, but we felt better knowing that Jason was there to care for his older brother at school.

There was never any trouble between Marcus and I, the two of us still as in love as ever. If Marcus ever came home early from work while the boys were still in school, we just couldn’t keep our hands off each other.

Then it happened. Mom was out collecting money from the local businesses when her time came. I was mortified and so upset because I was not there for her.

Mom begged for her life, there was still so much she had to do she told him. But the Grim Reaper was relentless, and she was gone.

Both Marcus and I just could not believe it. His parents had passed on years ago, and Mom had taken up the roll so eagerly when she had retired. How would we survive without her? And there was just so much I had never asked, always hoping she would tell me on her own.

I could still feel her presence around the house, but there was no real way to communicate with her.

One day Marcus came home with great news. He had done it, he was now a World Renown Surgeon! Hospitals from around the world called asking HIM for advice on surgeries. I, of course, let him know how proud I was.

Very proud indeed.

It appeared that in our excitement we forgot to protect against this, but both Marcus and I were happy that a new family member would be on the way.

Suddenly my eldest, the first baby I ever held, was now a young man! Almost an adult even! How had he gotten so big, and I was still having babies?

Suddenly it was time. I rushed to the hospital; Marcus was already there pulling an emergency shift. He had to practically quit to get to my side in time, but he was there.

Little Clarissa was a joy to see, she had my hair color and Marcus’ eyes.

I had to take a taxi home, because before Marcus could quit for the evening, an emergency right outside the hospital called his attention. Luckily the guy only need a shot.

It seemed before we even turned around our boys were growing. Jason grew up to be very handsome, and was bringing girls home as soon as he got into high school.

It appears he was a charmer, and found it very easy with the ladies.

The only girl Zeus felt comfortable around was his dear old Mom.

It wasn’t too soon that I got the key to the city from the mayor. I had to explain to Zeus it didn’t really unlock anything, it was more of a symbol and recognition for my work. He still seemed a bit confused, but left it alone sitting on my dresser.

More birthdays passed without notice. When I came home and found that Marcus was teaching my little angel Clarissa to walk, I knew it was time to quit. My real interest was to learn new skills, having reached the top of the private detective field had left me only sad to miss out on my children’s lives.

As soon as Zeus graduated from school, he got a job at the local science facility. After calling me to let me know about his job, he stopped at the local library to get some new books to read. There he met a girl. She was older them him, but he couldn’t stop thinking about her.

In fact he asked her out to dinner that very evening!

Zeus then took her to the new dance club that had opened right outside of town. The two danced the night away, and he was so happy.

He asked her to be his girl, and she agreed.

But she declined his proposal of marriage. She said it was too soon, but hoped he wouldn’t stop trying. I was happy for my boy, he had found himself a girl with a solid head on her shoulders, and I hoped that she did indeed accept his proposal one day when the time was right.

Jason had no trouble wooing his high school sweetheart.

She accepted his proposal without hesitation. I always knew she would, they had been dating most of high school.

It seemed all my children were having luck in the love department. I know, my little angel Clarissa is a bit young, but she seems taken by her school playmate. She usually goes over his house after school reminding me a bit of my own childhood love.

I had forgotten about the suspicions I held concerning my Mom keeping something from me. One day at home I found a book that shook me to the core, and I had to visit the local library to take some time away from our busy household to think. Inside the book, “A Simple Fisherman” by Jean Landgraab, I found a letter.

It had never been a secret that the Landgraab line had been a long and prestigious one in Sunset Valley, I knew that. What I didn’t know was that Mom had kept a series of books about the most famous of family members. She had even kept a few newspaper articles concerning the horrible fire that had killed Lucas.

But it was the letter explaining what had happened causing my Mom to leave Sunset Valley with me forever.

A single picture was in the letter, and it was labeled Seth Morrigan. My father.

Dear Beloved Hannah,

I know I should have told you this years ago, but I was afraid. I kept telling myself it was because I was too busy, or the time just wasn’t right, but in the end, it was because I was scared. Scared of a dead man. Your father wasn’t always so scary or bad, in fact, when I met him, he was brilliant and so full of life. I loved him right away for his genius, and his interest in what I loved the most: gardening. I was flattered by his attention, and couldn’t help but feel for him in ways I had never felt before for other men.

Yes, there was another man I also fell for. It was your father’s room mate Adam McNally. While your father was pure genius and so passionate about science and gardening, this man was just passionate in every other way. I had four children, two by each man, I just could not choose. In the end I married your father because at the time, he seemed the most stable and logical choice.

At first, both men accepted to be part of my life, they had to accept the other man as well. Your brothers and sisters were wonderful children, I wish you could have known them. But as time passed, it soon came apparent that each man was unable to accept the other. They would fight, and soon Adam had enough. “If you won’t marry me, then I refuse to be part of this anymore!”

I didn’t really believe he was serious, he hardly ever was about anything. But he refused to return my calls, and would never answer the door if I was there. His children he always called or met for dinner or a movie with. But me, I was dead as far as he was concerned. Even after he had given me up, Seth, you father, refused to accept he had won. He knew that deep down I didn’t love him the way I loved Adam.

When the news came, I was too shocked to believe it. One evening while my eldest son was visiting his father, the house caught on fire and both were trapped inside. I was devastated and could not leave my room for weeks. One day Seth forced me to come out, and wouldn’t allow me to mourn anymore. “For the children.” He would beseech me, and I would listen. I hardly noticed how the children would leave a room when Seth entered, or would flinch if he called for them, I was too wrapped up in me and my pain.

The night I became pregnant with you was horrible, not that I ever regret anything about you. You saved me, so please don’t think I ever hated you. Seth had started refusing me or the children to leave. He was now home schooling them, and our house simbot had been long since turned into scrap metal. the only time I was allowed outside was to work in the garden, and that was only at night.

I found myself slowly seeing Seth as the monster he was becoming, and would refuse him in my bed. One day my eldest daughter, to even think her name destroys me I miss her even now. You looked so much like her, at first it hurt to see you and not whisper her name. She starved to death. It was from my own neglect, and Seth’s refusal to allow her anything to eat. She was Adam’s daughter you see, and he hated her for that. I should have left before it got to that point, but I was terrified and kept hoping he would stop.

He came into my room and forced himself upon me. I was too grief stricken to really fight him, but I think it was then I started to plan. I would secretly pack things and ship them to a P.O.Box here in Barnacle Bay without his knowledge. It was while I was in town at the Post Office when it happened. I wonder if I hadn’t gone if he would have done it, or if he had planned it anyway and I was lucky to not be there.

I got home in time to see the fire department putting the last of the flames out. Three bodies inside, no survivors. I didn’t leave town right away you see, I had to make sure he was dead. His body was identified as were your brother’s and sister’s.

Gone, all of them, my whole family. The only two left were you and me. It took me a long time to get over their deaths, your siblings, and even your father. Yes, even after he let his darker side take over, I still loved him for his brilliant mind and passion. He had been a good man once.

I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you, I had lost any bravery I had with the death of your oldest sister. Had I stood up to him perhaps none of their deaths would have happened. I miss them even to this day, and at night remember them in my dreams and nightmares. Please, forgive me for being so weak and such a coward. And don’t hate your father, he was a sick man.

Love,
Mom