To my rodeo buddy, the lovely LadyEmillye! «123...Next Go

MiaSkywalker

@LadyEmillye, I am so sorry that some of mine might be a little late. I have health issues that interfered for several days, and then I had some sticky CC that I could not remove from part of one of my gifts. I had thought I had removed all CC from my game, but apparently not. I ended up having to copy in a completely CC free install of the game to start that gift over again. That took a bit of time, but finally I am finished! At least with the gifts; not quite with the pictures.

I am not very good with the first person sorts of shots, so I apologize in advance. I did a few, but most of my shots are top down. It's probably because I can't play first person games without getting motion sick; I have to play all games in top-down format, or I can't play them.

I was so excited to get you as a buddy! I have some idea on the sorts of things you like, based upon some of the contests you've run. And your letter gave me some interesting ideas, although they might not be exactly what you had in mind.



First is the Cyffredin family. A newly married couple, just starting out. John wants to be an astronaut; Mary wants to have a large family. Will their ambitions conflict, or will they remain in happily wedded bliss?

Don't worry if you are starting to be a little disappointed; these two are only your appetizer.

You might be surprised, however, to learn who I used as Mary's base; Zelda Mae, of all people. She actually has very good genetics; if you change her hair, clothing, and personality, of course. She has a wonderful face structure, and I've used her in the past as a template for female NPCs in my games.

Here are the two of them in one of the houses I was testing... just to give you another teaser.

I just realized I had forgotten to list their traits for you! They're really a rather ordinary couple, so I gave them stereotypical traits. There's actually a reason for this, which may make a little more sense when you see my later gifts.

Mary

Traits

Family Oriented
Natural Cook
Neat
Nurturing
Friendly

Favorites

Color: Yellow
Food: Fruit Parfait
Music: Indie

Life Ambition: Surrounded by Family

John

Traits

Family Oriented
Handy
Athletic
Ambitious
Friendly

Favorites

Color: Brown
Food: Hamburger
Music: Indie

Life Ambition: Become an Astronaut

MiaSkywalker

I've been working on this post all day, but I keep getting distracted by all the shiny new gifts in all the gifting threads. Bad me! Bad, bad me!

I know the previous gift may have seemed like something of a letdown, but now I will introduce you to the house the Cyffredins were testing, a Mid-Century Modern, done in Earth tones.



I had to replace the television between making the screen shots and uploading this, because the TV turned out to be CC. It's a minor change, as the replacement looks pretty similar.

The outside

Some overviews of the house

The living room

Dining room

Another thing I had to replace were the dining chairs. I hadn't realized until reading a thread on the forums yesterday, that the Mid-Century dining chairs had to be installed in a particular way, or they would be unusable. So today I tested it, and indeed, both of the Sims gave me route failure tantrums when I told them to sit at any of those chairs. I've now replaced them with the chairs in the final image; I apologize that I forgot to go back to live mode to take the screen shot. If you have the other chairs installed properly you can replace them, although you'll want to change the fabric on the chairs to match the room.

Kitchen

Master bedroom

A small study attached to the Master Bedroom, that could easily be converted to a small nursery

Kids' bedrooms

I realized as I was going through these that there is some duplication, most likely because I didn't do all of these at the same time.













Each of these two rooms has its own ensuite bathroom.

Master bathroom

Other areas

You may be surprised to learn that this is actually a pretty small lot; it's only 25x25. I wanted to make it smaller, but I was using a floor plan from an architectural site, and this was the smallest I could manage for this particular floor plan. I chose to make it on the smallest lot possible, with no front or back yard, so you can place it on a larger lot if you wish, and set the yard wherever you want it.

Edit: Oh! One more thing. All fireplaces and the stove are upgraded to fireproof. Discovered the hard way a while ago that not upgrading fireplaces is just a very bad idea.

MiaSkywalker

First of all, I'm terribly sorry for the delay. We had received our new modem a couple of days ago, so yesterday my father and I installed it. It was supposed to be "quick and easy"... about six hours worth of quick and easy.

Turns out the instructions had several incorrect steps, so even though both of us are very computer savvy (I'm a computer programmer who has always built my own computers from scratch, and I worked for many years doing I.T.), the instructions were just wrong.

So, I was pretty exhausted after it last night, and wasn't up for getting on the computer.

Now I'll make up for it, by posting TWO of your gifts tonight. The first gift, I give you Kizmet and Karma, two cute and cuddly pets!

Kizmet is a little charmer, a lovable Spaniel mix. Her traits are Friendly, Loyal, and Hunter. I'm sure she will capture your heart.



Karma is a lovely Ragdoll cat. I based her personality on that of one of my own cats. I own a Ragamuffin (another name for a Ragdoll) that I got as a rescue from the pound. I had no idea she was a Ragamuffin when I picked her out, but now I will always want to have one. They are the most lovable of cats. Karma's traits are Friendly, Playful and Proud.

Next up is the Vaincher family, Jeremy and Melanie.

The Vainchers are young, beautiful, and fashionable, and both of them are well aware of it. They both believe they deserve the best, and are certain that they will get it.




Jeremy has goals, ambitious ones. Young, handsome, rich, intelligent, he is sure that one day he will be a leader of his peers. He was lucky enough to marry the most beautiful woman in town, and he is sure that's a sign that he is destined for great things.


Melanie is both beautiful and accomplished, and she is well aware of it. She married well at a young age, and is sure that she and her husband will soon rise to the place in society in which they deserve to be.


Their various outfits.

And if you're wondering what sort of style I was going for, here are some pictures of them testing, well, something.

By the way, if you would like it, I can upload each Sim (and Pet) separately, in addition to the households. I saved each of them individually when I was checking for CC, so I have them in that format as well.

MiaSkywalker

Now for a nice little Victorian home, one of my bigger gifts to you. This is on a 25x25 lot, which is the smallest lot I could get it to fit on. I found architectural plans here, but I had to modify the structure quite a bit (and not have the extensive decking) as the roofs were extremely uncooperative. I did quite a bit of research on Victorian homes for this; unfortunately, it wasn't until after the house was built that I learned that there are six distinct styles, and that I'd mixed two of them in this particular build. You can see both Gothic Revival and Second Empire influences; I'm not sure about any others. I also found as many images of Victorian interior design as I could, to try to be as close to authentic as possible. And as I *sometimes* read historical romances, I will grudgingly admit that some of my ideas on what rooms exist come from my reading. (Ok, so Jane Austin is one of my favourite authors....)

There are no modern electronics, such as TVs, stereos, telephones, or computers on the lot. I'm not even sure if I remembered to place a fire alarm or burglar alarm. (Although I think I might have added those.) All fireplaces and the stove are upgraded to fireproof, however, which should cut down the chance of fires anyway.

Just as an FYI, originally I had created the Cyffredin family for this house, then realized they didn't really fit it, and created the more modern house for them. I then created the Vainchers for this house. I tested this house with both families at different times.



This home, like the previous one I made, is on a small 25x25 lot, and goes all the way to the edges. Like the other home, if you'd like a front or back yard, you might want to drop this down on a larger lot, and move it into the position you want for the type of yard you wish to have. I'm really... not very good with landscaping. At all. So I wimped out and left things open for you.

Once again, very image heavy post. The spoilers are to make it easier on loading time for people.

The outside of the house

First floor

Layout

Entry

Banquet hall

Dining room and kitchen

Living room

Second floor

Layout

Landing (upstairs hallway)

Children's bedroom and schoolroom

Master bedroom

Nursery

Third floor

Layout

Landing (hallway)

I'm not sure, but I think I've also added a chess table to the center of this room.

Library and the Mawster's study

Secret room (behind sliding bookcase in library)

I've been told that you may have to replace the sliding bookcase to get it to work. (I forgot to put that information in the lot description.) That was not the case for me, but I'm not going to say it won't be the case for others.

My suggestion would be to save the style as a preset, so when (if) you have to replace it, you can reset the style to match the room. Generally I tried to copy textures from one item to another, to keep down the number of textures used on the lot. I've read that the fewer textures you use, the less it increases lag and stutter in the game. (I know this is true in Unity, so no reason Sims would be any different.)

Also, I had forgotten that secret rooms appear black until a Sim enters the room, so I took before and after shots.

Fourth floor / attic

This floor includes a small bedroom and bath for a maid, governess, or housekeeper. You could instead make it for a gardener, butler, footman, or tutor, but I would recommend changing the rather feminine bedspread to something else, in that case.

Second floor of secret room

This room is not accessible from the attic, but only from the secret room right below it. I didn't put much in this room, but figured you can do with it whatever you'd like.

And finally, the basement

We have to have a basement, because nectar.

I just realized I didn't include any of the room-view type of shots, because all of those were put in the previous post. Well, I will just tell you that I painted all ceilings to match the floors, in the same kind of wood paneling. Other than the basement, which matches the stone floor down there.

MiaSkywalker

And now for something completely different...

Well, not really. Sort of. You see, when I read your letter, and saw "Victorian/Gothic" an idea came to me. I made the Victorian in the above post, and then... I changed it. I give you... the Gothic Victorian Gothic.

As you can see, the basic structure is the same, but the details - doors, windows, landscaping, etc. - are different. On the outside, at least.

But now... the inside. Once again, room layout is the same - I didn't change any of the walls - and the furnishings are all in the same places, and yet... it's very different.

First floor

Overview

Entry

Banquet room

Dining room and Kitchen

Living room

Second floor

Entry & hallway

Kids' room & schoolroom

Master bedroom

Just so you don't get confused - the first images were taken before I changed out the mirror. The last three images show the mirror I replaced it with. It really makes quite a difference.

Nursery

Third floor

Landing and hallway

Library

Secret room

Fourth floor (attic)

Attic & Governess' rooms

Secret room (upper floor)

I hope you like it! I had a whole lot of fun taking that Victorian I had made, and turning it gothic! Btw, this version DOES have electronics, which should be obvious from the images. I figured that anyone living here might live in the present... even if they aren't really living in our reality. .

Oh! One more thing: My sims got the "Beautifully Decorated" buff in every single room in this house. My Sims in the other Victorian got that buff in MOST rooms (or at least "Nicely Decorated"), but so far as I recall, it was in every single room in this house. Well! Wonder what that says?

MiaSkywalker

And now, for my final gift to you! I bring you... the Mystere family!



They're crazy, they're spooky, they're creepy, and they're just plain strange. Who are they, and why have they invaded your neighbourhood?

Their outfits

The Family

Hester Mystere

Hester has been alive a very long time - no one knows how long, and she isn't telling. It's possible her father would know, but he's too absorbed in his research to pay attention to things like birthdays. She appears to be quiet and genteel, but be careful about crossing her; she is far more dangerous than she appears.

Bartholomew Eerie

One day his inventing bench exploded and it killed him, but he didn't notice, and kept on working. Although he is Hester's father, he ignores her almost as much as he ignores everyone else in the family.

(Yes, I know he's an old age death ghost, but the other deaths were too colorful.)

Jonathan Mystere

Jonathan was always the serious one in his family, and chose to follow his parents' legacy. When he met Hester, he knew she was the perfect woman for him.

Zachariah Mystere

Zachariah is the oldest child, and only son, of Jonathan and Hester. Although he doesn't seem to have inherited either of his parents' talents, they can tell he has power. Jonathan suspects he may be a throwback to his family's roots, but has never told Hester what he suspects.

Matilda Mystere

Matilda is the only daughter of Hester and Jonathan. It is extremely obvious that she takes after neither of them directly. When she developed wings one day, they knew they were right, but they love their daughter unconditionally, and will accept her no matter what she becomes.

Horatio Mystere

Horatio was always wilder than his brother Jonathan. His wildness and rebellion caused him to stay out late many nights, sometimes not returning for several days. When he returned home one particular night with his clothing torn and blood on him, his family thought nothing of it; he had returned home in worse states, more times than not.

It was after one night like that, however, that he began to exhibit strange behavior - stranger, that is, than normal for him. Once again, his family - each one very strange themselves - thought nothing of it. But the night the children saw him grow fur all over his body, they knew he was no longer what he had been....


I just realized it isn't obvious; the second picture is his "other" form. It was hard making it less of the exaggerated form, and more like his regular face, but I did that on purpose.

And now I will tell you the secret of their names, and why I named each family as I did.

Mystere is, of course, French for "mystery". This is because that family is very spooky and strange.

Vaincher is an anglicized Vainqueur, which means "winner", which was a hint at "Victorian". (winner = victor) The word for Victor in French is Victor, so that was no good....

Cyffredin is Gaelic for "ordinary". They are an ordinary family compared to the strangeness of the Mysteres. Originally those two were going to be the only two families. The Vainchers came about because I realized that the Cyffredins didn't quite fit in the Victorian. So I made them a different house, and made a different family for the Victorian house. Thus you ended up with six gifts instead of four.

The two pets were originally supposed to be part of the Vainchers, then I realized the Victorian didn't have pet beds, but the cottage did. So I figured I would separate them out, to allow you to use them where you wanted. And then you had seven gifts.

MsPrissy88

@Mia - What a cute couple! I love the hair you chose for Mary. That, sort-of retro, 20s style. And from the sneak peek I saw of the house, it looks very comfortable!


*Will rec later

MiaSkywalker

Thank you, @MsPrissy88. Yes, they're rather retro; you can just imagine either of them on the show "Father Knows Best" or "Leave it to Beaver", right? No, I'm not an anti-feminist, or anything like that; these two are meant for contrast to... well, you'll see later.

LadyEmillye

I wish i could give this some attention but ibam at work with minutes to open. Can't wait til i am off and really dive in. I am sure everything will be amazing.

suzses

Very interesting start there @MiaSkywalker with hints of things to come. I do like your retro couple and their apropos surroundings.

Wow, those are a LOT of gift boxes! Looks as though your buddy is in for plenty of special treats.

I'm on my way to work but will be sure to get you rec'd tonight.

MiaSkywalker

suzses wrote: »

Very interesting start there @MiaSkywalker with hints of things to come. I do like your retro couple and their apropos surroundings.

Wow, those are a LOT of gift boxes! Looks as though your buddy is in for plenty of special treats.

I'm on my way to work but will be sure to get you rec'd tonight.

Well, I do have a few gifts for her. They're also going to be pretty image heavy, so I wanted at least one extra post, just to be on the safe side.

I should also probably get some sleep. It's almost 7am, and I'm starting to make serious typos.

ADWilson

John and Mary are a lovely, loving couple. It's pretty nifty how you presented a spoiler teaser showcasing something they've tested. Hmm... wonder what that could be? LOL

ciane

I love your presentation - all those unique gift boxes! And yes, Zelda does have great genetics! Nice looking sims and great start.

EmzyDalsvida

Very beautiful retro-beach sims!! I love the beachy/summer style so much and the old-timey hairstyles make for a very nice addition

LadyEmillye

I really love the first family (now that I am off work, finally, I can look through). Can't wait to rec and get them in game, although this weekend will look like play time for me. I have the perfect world to put them in too ^.^

60smusicluvr

Ooh really nice, retro looking couple and home!

SjappielovePaul

@MiaSkywalker the family and the house both look so good, I can't even wait to borrow these gifts! I almost feel the sudden urge to play in Roaring Heights again

MiaSkywalker

SjappielovePaul wrote: »

@MiaSkywalker the family and the house both look so good, I can't even wait to borrow these gifts! I almost feel the sudden urge to play in Roaring Heights again

I've never actually played in Roaring Heights. I have used the furnishings and clothing that come with it, though.

SjappielovePaul

I have my favourite Simmy of all those Sims I've ever created living in Roaring Heights I love how light and beachy it is! I actually should look for a mod so they can't use computers and smartphones in RH that would finish the feel of it!

I guess I get why they plum the B-word, but beach-y? Really?! How am I supposed to talk about Sunlit Tides, Isla Paradiso and Roaring Heights. And pretty much all worlds with water...

SjappielovePaul

Yeah I think so too, I was just surprised by it

LadyEmillye

I LOVE That house, so retro and perfect for the couple, off to rec and save the file before I head to work

ciane

Your home is awesome with lots of curb appeal and warm colors. I love all the wood work and the windows into the kitchen are a great idea! I love the way you decorated the living room with all those fun wood sculpture pieces! Very, very nice job!

suzses

I love the warmth of this house and how the whites/lights/metallics just brighten it up! Also love the colorful kids' rooms. It's nice and roomy and perfect for a growing family.

ADWilson

You fit all of this house on a 25 x 25? Get out of here! It seems so spacious. Love the style, furnishings and color palette used throughout this warm, inviting place. The Mid-Century items look terrific against all those wood tones.

I have also had issues with those dining chairs so a little bit of research is in order for figuring out how to make them work properly
**scribbles another item onto sim to-do list**

Kgaff

WOW, you sure packed in a lot of stuff in a very small space. However did you figure out where everything should go! Amazing!

Bookworm742

What a great couple...good genetics are valuable, can never have enough of those running around town. Love the combination of the RH stuff with the IP stuff in their hair/clothing choices. Works well together!