Music:
The living's right to know - The egg breaks all is out - The crawling bird begins to scream and shout - Where is the parent bird? - A loneliness arose and heard it's name ring in - For lives, begin - Survival win - Survival sin - So soon the evening comes - And with it runs the aching fear of hate - Could someone still remain - Who thinks he still could gain by escaping fate? - It's much too late - Don't underrate – Appreciate - Don't doubt the fact there's life within you - Yesterday's endings will tomorrow life give you
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
We followed the coast south looking for harvestable fruits and berry during the warmer months of 2723. When the winter came, we survived in a cave at the coast. We did hardly eat anything but a few shellfish we could take from the icy water, both almost starving to death.
When spring came and we could get more food. Continuing south we found a river mouth with the option to fish, and we also found some fruit trees and vegetables growing wild, must have been from a population previously living in the area. My son found an underground shelter, a basement from a house long gone.
This was a perfect hideout and we decided to stay for at least one winter. We covered the entry the best we could. At this point we were both sick, the long winter with no food backfired. Charles had a constant diarrhea.
During the summer we found out that there were people living on the other side of the river, we had to be very careful now, the last time we had seen humans was when Charles farther was killed. Now we could only look for food at night time, making our situation get from bad to worse, with the winter also coming.
We just barely survived winter, but now I was so drained from the cold and little food, that I suddenly passed out near the entry to our basement. Charles came back and found me lying lifeless.
(check editorial!)
He pulled me down the ladder and revived me on my bed. After I regained a bit of strength he said:
Now we have to visit that settlement across the river. It is just as well that the kill us now, if we have to starve to death anyway.
Editorial:
Funds after this episode: Greg: 5.900 - Jenny: 7.648
It was amazing that Michiko Vaughan just fainted, as that would fit my story so well, as you can see from the picture she really fainted for no good reason, all her bars are fine. Crazy!
I use no poses or anything – it just happened while she was on auto.
@Tamijo Enjoyed the updates. It's good that they are all getting along even if some are more standoffish then others. That is true to real life as well.
Giggles at the tiny goldfish.
Nice find in the yard. Hopefully he can sell it on the mountain.
Oh my, what a harsh life Michiko has led and thank goodness her son was able to revive her.
I do hope they will make it across the river and it is Greg's settlement they are heading.
I really like that your sims truly look like they are having a rough time surviving. Much more realistic.
Beautiful sunset.
PS: The music is interesting for both of the updates. I don't know either of the artists. Mostly been a country music fan all my life with bluegrass thrown in as I grew up listening to Dad's favorite music which was bluegrass. I did venture out in some rock, more pop or soft than electric or hard. Love Jazz. My son has also influenced me on trying out new genre's. A few have made my country ears pop though.
@bekkasan: Thanks, was a lot of fun trying to make those two look like they were hit by a bad dysentery.
Regarding the music: Country and bluegrass is likely the genres I have been less exposed to, they got a very small fan base in my part of the world. Besides the most popular like Dolly, Kenny Rogers and later Shania Twain.
I'm crazy with Jazz especially the sax, Charlie Parker, Coleman Hawkins, Stanley Turrentine, Ben Webster.
Music:
I planned each charted course - Each careful step along the byway - Oh, and more, much more than this - I did it my way - Yes, there were times, I'm sure you know - When I bit off more than I could chew - But through it all when there was doubt - I ate it up and spit it out - I faced it all and I stood tall - And did it my way
Greg Preston’s Diary 2th of May 2725 AD
Found a new spot to fish from. Not a fantastic result today, spending 3 hours catching just two small fish, but I learned some technics.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – May 2725
Elea Helsby have taken responsibly of our chicken farming, very important to us, she brought back the first four eggs today.
Really an asset to our small community Elea also took Myra to a nearby lake, to teach her fishing.
Myra liked it and have spent more time there than Elea this month. They have brought home some sizeable fish. Sadly, this month the boys spent their time mainly socialising, not contributing much.
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
Charles saw a young girl from the new settlement fishing in a lake. This was an option to contact them, with little risk. She was very nice and not afraid of him, they talked for a while and she agreed to take him to her house to negotiate with their leader, hoping to get some help.
Greg Preston’s Diary 16th of May 2725 AD
Myra had met a stranger. He was looking very sick and was dressed like a vagabond. It turned out, that he and his mom, were living in a shelter on the other side of the river. I told him, I had to talk with Jenny before I could decide what to do, asking him to come back the next day.
Jenny Richards Diary 18th of May 2725 AD
Greg and I decided that Greg and Terry should immediately travel to the Mountain Village to ask for help. As it was, we could not support another two persons without help. Especially considering how miserable the Vaughan family were. I the meantime they could stay in my house, after we had brought their beds from the shelter.
Editorial:
Funds after this episode: Greg’s house: 4.750 – Jenny: 7.496
Greg was fishing from a “spot” I haven’t setup (no lot at all) did not know that was possible.
YES Fixed the “chickens” with Nraas/Retuner, just clicking on the building and change it to "Autonomy True" did the trick, Elea took the egg’s without any help from me, about one day after the Nraas setup.
How the meeting was setup:
I did wait for them to meet “auto” in May (was also happening previously but I just send them home), but I did make Myra form a group with “the stranger” for him to meet Greg.
This is approx. the setup I had planned from the beginning, so from here there can and will be new characters populating the settlement, but much more infrequently.
Charles was so pleased that he finally met with Greg, that he had to play air-guitar and sing “I did it my way”
Greg Preston’s Diary 24th of May 2725 AD
We bought a typewriter as a gift for Michiko, as she said she would like to write a novel. We also sold some salted fish and the gold-stone.
We have had several meetings with Village Elder Council all day, they asked us how much taxes we expected to had collected over the last year. When I said it was just 1.805$ (*) the Council realised that we needed support, if the settlement by the river should not collapse.
They decided to help us with donations (*). If we would accept to be a part of them, under indirect leadership. We should create a small local elder assembly and be represented in their council. They appointed me as lifetime settlement leader, being the founder. When I was no longer there, the elder assembly should vote for a new lifetime leader.
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
The settlers were so nice to us. They built a small cottage we could live in, simple but a lot better that the cold basement. When their leader returned from a village he knew somewhere in the mountains, he had a typewriter for me and said that now I was a part of their elder assembly. Having influence on future decisions.
Jenny Richards Diary 1st of June 2725 AD
The first Elder Assembly meeting took place tonight. With Greg, Michiko and myself, mainly talking about the deals made with the mountain village. We also talked about the pros and cons of the option we had to advert in the mountain village, to attract more newcomers.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – June 2725
Myra have become so found of fishing that she has also persuaded John to come. They had a fine month, all in all reeling in 19 fish at the lake. The other youngsters have been cleaning and taking care of the garden.
Greg Preston’s Diary 17th of June 2725 AD
As intended the new settlement meeting and assembly spot, have become a popular meeting location. A place to meet, talk, read or just relax.
The typewriter I got for the Vaughan family was a great idea. Charles already started to write something. “Bens guide to Bikes”, not sure with that title, but I hope he can make some money from it. The family is so poor. In any case they look much stronger now that they have got some decent meals.
Jenny Richards Diary 23th of June 2725 AD
We are not exactly the best of friends yet, but I am glad that Michiko skill comes around to visit, after they have moved out. I don’t really like being out in the sun or rain, so I don’t see a lot of people if they do not visit.
Editorial:
A know it is a lot this time, but for my own reference and the few interested I thought it would post it all.
Funds after this episode (including donations):
Greg Preston household: 7.556
Jenny Richards household: 8.496
Michiko Vaughan household: 5.496
Political Structure Elder Assembly:
Must be at least 33 years old (adult) - Max one from each house - Oldest in house – Max. six members prefer highest tax payer families if more than six households. – Leader 2 votes. Elder 1 vote
Yearly Donations: Paid in June after tax calculation
In this context Elder is member of Elder Assembly, Adult+ is everyone above 33.
The donations (if the combined yearly tax is less than 18.000$):
In-game auto jobs selected:
Greg, Jenny, Michiko: Band
Terry: Photographer
Charles: Writer
The two meetings were “fixed” all other scenes auto
The settlement with the new Vaughan house in front and the meeting place behind it
@tamijo I knew that song! My way by Sinatra.
I enjoyed both updates.
Glad to see they are learning skills and how to help each other out.
oh good, nice that Charles was able to talk with Greg and they brought them into the settlement.
Hopefully the village can help as well.
Good decision to appoint Greg as lifetime leader and to have a member on the mountain council as well.
It is great that Charles and Michiko are benefiting from the typewriter.
I'm glad they are healthier.
That is a lot to keep track of but is interesting to see who is paying what.
I like the new young additions to the village and it was fun to read about them fishing.
Also the idea of the elder assembly. It seems the settlement is getting some "political" system already. Haha, and also how you keep tabs on their money, funny to see another spreadsheet user on here.
@bekkasan: Thanks for comments
Yes I am glad that at least a few of them are trying to find ways to earn something and learn skills.
@Sprottenham: Thanks for comments.
Yes I like to make my own spreadsheet driven rules and systems - also did that in other stories made for other games.
@Tamijo : The community is growing fast, I see.
Interesting new students and even more interesting that they all get along so good! I surely did think that Myra would have made some problems because of her background (rich) and her snob trait.
Poor Michiko and Charles, they had led a hard life. I hope for them that now their life improves much!
They already look much better, even their skin isn´t as pale as before anymore.
This is a very intereresting way of playing, I really like to watch what is doable with the game and how self-subsistent the village and the Sims can be.
Good that they try for a (political) order, the only problem I have with it is that only the rich ones could be part of the elders assembly. The poor must have a chance, too. (and maybe some younger people should join later, too)
Good that they try for a (political) order, the only problem I have with it is that only the rich ones could be part of the elders assembly. The poor must have a chance, too. (and maybe some younger people should join later, too)
Yes I thought about it a lot. My conclusion was the the most realistic was that sadly the rich have ways to always get to power. Just as we have few leaders in the world under 30 but a bunch that is half dead
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 25th of June 2025
Had concerns about Elder Jenny Richard lack of social interaction with the settlement members, but lately she had visits by Elder Michiko Vaughan, scholars Myra Frances and Elea Helsby, getting more involved in the community.
Regarding the scholars they have all become well integrated, lately young Myra Frances started fishing with John Hallett and now the are the best of friends.
Just a friendly hug
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 2nd of July 2025
I have noticed that often the settlers take a nap whenever they are a bit tired. To the point where they sleep or are awake at odd hours. I talked about this with the other Elders and we have decided to ask all residence not to nap (*) to keep the production level higher.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – July 2725
Myra’s just turned 16 years old. Thing are moving fast with her, from being a young very inward personality, she is now very social and adds a lot to the household. She cooks a lot making such nice quality waffles in the morning for everyone to enjoy when they get up. Now the best cook amongst the students.
Terry also started showing interest in fishing, he took the bike for a very long rider, fishing so far away that no other settler has been there before. Sadly, he forgot to fix the sink before he went off even though it has been broken for days. The sink over at Jenny’s also broken and he haven’t fixed that either. Taking up others settlers time cleaning up the water from the floors.
Jenny Richards Diary 11th of July 2725 AD
It has been very hot and sunny lately. I have mostly stayed inside having some visitors and I started my first oil painting.
Biographies:
Michiko Vaughan
Michiko was born in may in the year 2669, now 63 years old. She was born and raised in the nomadic Hatchee tribe living at the north west around the Fuzz-Fatchee lakes. When she was 46 years old her tribe came to warfare with a coalition of small tribes invading from the east and was driven from the lake.
Michiko had four children, the first died as a child, her husband and eldest sons died in the war. After which she and her last son Charles fled south.
Charles Vaughan
Charles was born 36 and a half year ago at the banks of Fatcheema lake. His farther was a proud Hatchee hunter Amito Vaughan, his mother of half Hatchee and half Asian descent. As a young boy Charles was sent to school in a larger settlement close to the lake, separated from his family for 6 years. War broke out and he was sent back to his tribe.
(*) Editorial:
Economy after this episode:
Greg Preston household: Cash 7.405 – Net Worth 28.266
Jenny Richards household: Cash 8.460 – Net Worth 16.654
Michiko Vaughan household: Cash 1.541 – Net Worth 12.477
MODDING:
Although my sims can’t survive without help they have had a bad habit of giving donations to welfare, the option has now been removed for the time being.
Attempted to remove or at least decrease napping, as it is getting absurd. (something like 70%+ napping)
Ran into a problem I can’t solve. Being a writer Charles continues to buy laptop, killing the economy of the family. Can’t find a mod to change pricing to something he can’t afford or otherwise prevent him from getting that item. The first few times I sold it for him, but as he continues to buy it again. I will let him keep until the family runs out of money. Just won’t take pics. of it as that would spoil the storyline.
@Tamijo I clicked on the song but apparently the video is unavailable.
It is interesting to read what the settlers are willing to do on their own.
I would be hard pressed to not interfere with a sim going fishing instead of repairing the leaking sinks and buying laptaps that are not needed.
I guess it is like any society some will do more than others. While some will rely on others to take care of them.
Have you looked at Nraas money to see if it would help with restricting buying?
I've installed it, but basically I use it to force deadbeat parents to pay child support and don't mess with any of the other settings. I'm not fond of numbers or math.
It's nice to see Myra doing so well, making friends and improving her cooking skills to help everyone out.
@bekkasan
Thanks for reply
Will look at Nraas money right away to see if it can help me.
The song was working for me, so may be a country restriction – changed it to another version
@Tamijo It is part of the Story Progression modules. You can set it so it automatically sells most items from their inventory. That is true by default I believe. I don't think it will stop them buying some things when they are not active though.
Greg Preston’s Diary 22th of June 2725 AD
I’m in doubt really, if I should complaint further to St. John’s Foundation about the way Terry acts. Yes, he was doing something useful, but no not what was expected and needed.
Michiko came to the rescue of Jenny, just rang the bell and walked straight over to the sink with a wrench in her hand, fixing her tap.
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 30th of June 2725
The new Vaughan family have already settled in well, the son Charles have written 200 pages, finishing a short story and already at his 2nd book. Looks like they might make it trough the first hard years after all.
When not at home writing Charles is often reading at the settlement community lot, just as his mother often does
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
I did not tell anyone at the time, but my health was not as it should be. I still suddenly felt dizzy and even fainted from time to time.
Greg Preston’s Diary 6th of June 2725 AD
Yesterday morning was eating breakfast with Terry, some of Mira’s delicious waffles.
“So, what is the issues you got, still not having fixed the water in the kitchen” I asked.
Terry: “The issue is that I need to make a new gasket, Michiko used the last one at Jennys”, Haven’t got around to it as I’m also working at one of the toilets, that is not working either.
I said: “Terry you fix that sealing NOW, I will get someone else to fit the toilet”
John took care of the toilet today while singing something like “Don't mind the rain - Don't mind snow - Don't mind nothin' If I know - You will be - right here with me”
I don’t think he was thinking about me.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – August 2725
John have been fantastic recently, with some help from Terry he has repaired everything we needed to keep the house running.
John is still singing that song while working. In love with someone?
On top of that he also spent time at the lake, trying to ad even more to the settlement. The two youngest have really stepped up, such a thrill. John caught 5 fish in this period.
From Elea Helsby’s letter to the Helsby family, written 16th of August 2725
It may sound sad that my best friend here is the dog, but it is not, I just love him so much.
My best friend amongst the humans is Terry, we have many good times together and I also like the young John. Whereas the girl Myra Frances is odd, well maybe if I get to know her better. All the adults are ok’ish, but they keep to themselves most of the time.
Teddy and I, looking at the local flora
Editorial:
Economy after this episode:
Greg Preston household: Cash 6.513 – Net Worth 27.233
Jenny Richards household: Cash 8.409 – Net Worth 16.247
Michiko Vaughan household: Cash 4.760 – Net Worth 11.520
MODDING:
Solved the “Autonome Repair” issue that I think many have had, lots of treads about it but no solution, as Nraas have very little information compared to the sick number of options in Retuner.
Here is a guide – can by used on any object but not always with the same options.
The extreme number I use (9000) is far above what I think is needed just to be on the safe side.
This is not sure to fix the water (or whatever) within hours or even days, that all depends on when a sim finds the time out of his free will, in my test sometimes very fast (as in the story, I was lucky, no cheating, when I had found a solution I reloaded and we play the first load), but I have also seen many days with a room full of dirty plates.
The sink is the worst as the sims do not get anything from it, (they don’t seem to relate the dirt directly to the sink), better with bath and toilet where they have a need to fix (bladder/ hygiene) so they tend to do that faster.
You have to check everything – it is not that the water is one setup, sink, bath, shower ect is all a separate setup.
This is how it is done.
Charles decided to sell the laptop without my help, might be the cash reserves was too low
Myra visiting Charles at his home, they are not very good friend now, but maybe this is the beginning of a friendship
@Tamijo It is good that others in the settlement are learning to do the handiness skill and helping out with broken objects.
Michiko should get an exam up at the mountain! I'm sure they have someone who could check her out. I hope so.
Sounds like Terry needs to have a supervisor to push him to work.
John is doing so well perhaps he could be Terry's boss.
It sounds like a few are starting to develop closer relationships. They do need some children running around.
I'm glad you were able to fix the issue with some of the autonomous things that need to happen.
@bekkasan
Not a bad idea to bring Michiko to a doctor (not sure it would help but who knows)
John might easily end up as Terry's boss - he is so hard working
To many are young still, but Jenny and Charles could find love, otherwise I guess we have to wait a while for children. Unless a new family comes down from the mountains to join us.
It's just a case of choosing my priorities, Stages
It's just the art of changing our perception
But when I see that girl it messes my security
So please don't leave me alone with her
The song is meant to explain why John just walk away from Myra, although we must expect him to have feelings for her, she also makes him feel insecure, after all he is just 16 and she belongs to a much higher social level in the mountain village.
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 31th of August 2725
Our settlement has rapidly developed into a fishing community. Everyone except Charles and Jenny are now fishing at lot. My only important worries are the Vaughan’s economy, they do not seem to have a plan that can get then through the winter, their cash reserves are dropping fast.
From Myra Frances letter to her mother, written 8th of September 2725
Dear Mother.
I am writing to you here from our humble home by the river, on an old typewriter we have got.
Sorry for not writing earlier, You have probably heard we had settlers in your village back in May, but I have been very busy and it was a little hard for me to find my place in the group back then.
Now everything is much better, I have become good friends with my fellow student Elea Helsby lately. I am also very good friends with our Elder Jenny Richards, a very special woman who have lived an interesting life, alone in the wilderness for 7 years.
I know you will laugh about this and think I am young and stupid, but I have to share my feelings with you.
I have fallen in love with one of the students, a wonderful and beautiful boy called John Hallett, we talk a lot and has spent many hours together. I am very much in love with him, but I am not sure the feeling is mutual. I have tried to flirt a little last night, but he said he had to go fishing.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation September 2725 AD
I am generally quite satisfied with our four students, both their work effort and their socially behaviour has improved over the latest month. Everyone taking part in important daily routines, cleaning, cooking, feeding the animals, harvesting egg’s and fishing. At the same time, they are developing tight bonds and none of them are arguing a lot or being condescending towards each other.
Greg Preston’s Diary 10th of September 2725 AD
I left the settlement yesterday morning, now traveling to the mountain village, to attend the last Council meeting before the winter comes. Before I left, I was collecting gemstones and fur to sell in “Ent”. Finding some valuable rocks with diamond and gold inside.
Now I am at the end of the lowland about to enter the mountain area. I will camp here for the night.
Jenny Richards Diary 20th of September 2725 AD
I like fall. More people are inside and I can visit at their homes without being too much outside.
I visited Michiko a few times and we have become much closer now. I also like Charles a lot, but he is a bit weird. He plays air-guitar! When I say, come over at try a real guitar, he just smiles.
Editorial:
Economy after this episode:
Greg Preston household: Cash 7.444 – Net Worth 28.010
Jenny Richards household: Cash 8.342 – Net Worth 16.180
Michiko Vaughan household: Cash 811 – Net Worth 7.508
The Vaughan typewriter broke down, although Charles is a high-level handyman, he has not yet attempted to fix it. Instead, he again bought a laptop. The impact on their cash/net worth is horrible if he keeps buying and selling such expensive items.
As I mentioned several episodes back, I would introduce some plants on community lots to try lure the settlers into gardening. Now have planted some on the “Elder Assembly lot”, so far no one reacted towards them.
@Tamijo So sad that even in a world where catastrophic events have happened people still want to categorize each other into little niches and boxes and keep you there.
Love is love! I'm sad for Myra and a little for John as he seemed to care for her. But perhaps he doesn't truly love her and that is why he can feel insecure in their relationship. He is very young even though I expect living in times like they do would make them mature faster with more responsibilities on them.
Considering how much time Jenny had to be outdoors I don't blame her for wanting to stay inside. Glad she does venture out to see some of the others though. Not good to be alone all the time.
I had to grin at the air guitar pictures.
Bummer the spending issue persists. That does happen in real life though so perhaps he will learn from it if they go broke. Some folks think the AI is smart and does learn. I'm still on the fence about that. I saw too many silly things that happened that shouldn't happen with the AI if it was so smart. That is why I got Story Progression from Nraas. I'm still learning all that it can do.
@bekkasan
Thanks for comments
I also run Story Progression from Nraas, hope it will eventually make him think more about the economy, may have to look into it deeper to see if there is something in the settings.
Oh, teenage love. Cute, but also understandable how the boy can be insecure about the upper class girl and not realize she actually likes him too. Myra is looking like a fine young woman though, with her nice clothes standing outside with the umbrella.
The typewriter is a really nice touch. Haha, and the air guitar. Its a much easier instrument to play, (with the right background music) it sounds awesome everytime.
Comments
@bekkasan
Thanks
Was quite surprised they chose to cross the river like that.
Episode 9 – Survival
Music:
The living's right to know - The egg breaks all is out - The crawling bird begins to scream and shout - Where is the parent bird? - A loneliness arose and heard it's name ring in - For lives, begin - Survival win - Survival sin - So soon the evening comes - And with it runs the aching fear of hate - Could someone still remain - Who thinks he still could gain by escaping fate? - It's much too late - Don't underrate – Appreciate - Don't doubt the fact there's life within you - Yesterday's endings will tomorrow life give you
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
We followed the coast south looking for harvestable fruits and berry during the warmer months of 2723. When the winter came, we survived in a cave at the coast. We did hardly eat anything but a few shellfish we could take from the icy water, both almost starving to death.
When spring came and we could get more food. Continuing south we found a river mouth with the option to fish, and we also found some fruit trees and vegetables growing wild, must have been from a population previously living in the area. My son found an underground shelter, a basement from a house long gone.
This was a perfect hideout and we decided to stay for at least one winter. We covered the entry the best we could. At this point we were both sick, the long winter with no food backfired. Charles had a constant diarrhea.
During the summer we found out that there were people living on the other side of the river, we had to be very careful now, the last time we had seen humans was when Charles farther was killed. Now we could only look for food at night time, making our situation get from bad to worse, with the winter also coming.
We just barely survived winter, but now I was so drained from the cold and little food, that I suddenly passed out near the entry to our basement. Charles came back and found me lying lifeless.
(check editorial!)
He pulled me down the ladder and revived me on my bed. After I regained a bit of strength he said:
Now we have to visit that settlement across the river. It is just as well that the kill us now, if we have to starve to death anyway.
Editorial:
It was amazing that Michiko Vaughan just fainted, as that would fit my story so well, as you can see from the picture she really fainted for no good reason, all her bars are fine. Crazy!
I use no poses or anything – it just happened while she was on auto.
Flower soup ahh…nice
Giggles at the tiny goldfish.
Nice find in the yard. Hopefully he can sell it on the mountain.
Oh my, what a harsh life Michiko has led and thank goodness her son was able to revive her.
I do hope they will make it across the river and it is Greg's settlement they are heading.
I really like that your sims truly look like they are having a rough time surviving. Much more realistic.
Beautiful sunset.
PS: The music is interesting for both of the updates. I don't know either of the artists. Mostly been a country music fan all my life with bluegrass thrown in as I grew up listening to Dad's favorite music which was bluegrass. I did venture out in some rock, more pop or soft than electric or hard. Love Jazz. My son has also influenced me on trying out new genre's. A few have made my country ears pop though.
The Cowboy and the Mermaid
@bekkasan: Thanks, was a lot of fun trying to make those two look like they were hit by a bad dysentery.
Regarding the music: Country and bluegrass is likely the genres I have been less exposed to, they got a very small fan base in my part of the world. Besides the most popular like Dolly, Kenny Rogers and later Shania Twain.
I'm crazy with Jazz especially the sax, Charlie Parker, Coleman Hawkins, Stanley Turrentine, Ben Webster.
Music:
I planned each charted course - Each careful step along the byway - Oh, and more, much more than this - I did it my way - Yes, there were times, I'm sure you know - When I bit off more than I could chew - But through it all when there was doubt - I ate it up and spit it out - I faced it all and I stood tall - And did it my way
Greg Preston’s Diary 2th of May 2725 AD
Found a new spot to fish from. Not a fantastic result today, spending 3 hours catching just two small fish, but I learned some technics.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – May 2725
Elea Helsby have taken responsibly of our chicken farming, very important to us, she brought back the first four eggs today.
Really an asset to our small community Elea also took Myra to a nearby lake, to teach her fishing.
Myra liked it and have spent more time there than Elea this month. They have brought home some sizeable fish. Sadly, this month the boys spent their time mainly socialising, not contributing much.
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
Charles saw a young girl from the new settlement fishing in a lake. This was an option to contact them, with little risk. She was very nice and not afraid of him, they talked for a while and she agreed to take him to her house to negotiate with their leader, hoping to get some help.
Greg Preston’s Diary 16th of May 2725 AD
Myra had met a stranger. He was looking very sick and was dressed like a vagabond. It turned out, that he and his mom, were living in a shelter on the other side of the river. I told him, I had to talk with Jenny before I could decide what to do, asking him to come back the next day.
Jenny Richards Diary 18th of May 2725 AD
Greg and I decided that Greg and Terry should immediately travel to the Mountain Village to ask for help. As it was, we could not support another two persons without help. Especially considering how miserable the Vaughan family were. I the meantime they could stay in my house, after we had brought their beds from the shelter.
Editorial:
Greg was fishing from a “spot” I haven’t setup (no lot at all) did not know that was possible.
YES
How the meeting was setup:
I did wait for them to meet “auto” in May (was also happening previously but I just send them home), but I did make Myra form a group with “the stranger” for him to meet Greg.
This is approx. the setup I had planned from the beginning, so from here there can and will be new characters populating the settlement, but much more infrequently.
Charles was so pleased that he finally met with Greg, that he had to play air-guitar and sing “I did it my way”
Greg Preston’s Diary 24th of May 2725 AD
We bought a typewriter as a gift for Michiko, as she said she would like to write a novel. We also sold some salted fish and the gold-stone.
We have had several meetings with Village Elder Council all day, they asked us how much taxes we expected to had collected over the last year. When I said it was just 1.805$ (*) the Council realised that we needed support, if the settlement by the river should not collapse.
They decided to help us with donations (*). If we would accept to be a part of them, under indirect leadership. We should create a small local elder assembly and be represented in their council. They appointed me as lifetime settlement leader, being the founder. When I was no longer there, the elder assembly should vote for a new lifetime leader.
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
The settlers were so nice to us. They built a small cottage we could live in, simple but a lot better that the cold basement. When their leader returned from a village he knew somewhere in the mountains, he had a typewriter for me and said that now I was a part of their elder assembly. Having influence on future decisions.
Jenny Richards Diary 1st of June 2725 AD
The first Elder Assembly meeting took place tonight. With Greg, Michiko and myself, mainly talking about the deals made with the mountain village. We also talked about the pros and cons of the option we had to advert in the mountain village, to attract more newcomers.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – June 2725
Myra have become so found of fishing that she has also persuaded John to come. They had a fine month, all in all reeling in 19 fish at the lake. The other youngsters have been cleaning and taking care of the garden.
Greg Preston’s Diary 17th of June 2725 AD
As intended the new settlement meeting and assembly spot, have become a popular meeting location. A place to meet, talk, read or just relax.
The typewriter I got for the Vaughan family was a great idea. Charles already started to write something. “Bens guide to Bikes”, not sure with that title, but I hope he can make some money from it. The family is so poor. In any case they look much stronger now that they have got some decent meals.
Jenny Richards Diary 23th of June 2725 AD
We are not exactly the best of friends yet, but I am glad that Michiko skill comes around to visit, after they have moved out. I don’t really like being out in the sun or rain, so I don’t see a lot of people if they do not visit.
Editorial:
A know it is a lot this time, but for my own reference and the few interested I thought it would post it all.
Greg Preston household: 7.556
Jenny Richards household: 8.496
Michiko Vaughan household: 5.496
Political Structure Elder Assembly:
Must be at least 33 years old (adult) - Max one from each house - Oldest in house – Max. six members prefer highest tax payer families if more than six households. – Leader 2 votes. Elder 1 vote
Yearly Donations: Paid in June after tax calculation
In this context Elder is member of Elder Assembly, Adult+ is everyone above 33.
The donations (if the combined yearly tax is less than 18.000$):
In-game auto jobs selected:
Greg, Jenny, Michiko: Band
Terry: Photographer
Charles: Writer
The two meetings were “fixed” all other scenes auto
The settlement with the new Vaughan house in front and the meeting place behind it
@tamijo I knew that song! My way by Sinatra.
I enjoyed both updates.
Glad to see they are learning skills and how to help each other out.
oh good, nice that Charles was able to talk with Greg and they brought them into the settlement.
Hopefully the village can help as well.
Good decision to appoint Greg as lifetime leader and to have a member on the mountain council as well.
It is great that Charles and Michiko are benefiting from the typewriter.
I'm glad they are healthier.
That is a lot to keep track of but is interesting to see who is paying what.
The Cowboy and the Mermaid
Also the idea of the elder assembly. It seems the settlement is getting some "political" system already. Haha, and also how you keep tabs on their money, funny to see another spreadsheet user on here.
Sub blogs: #01 Sunset Valley. #02: Lake Onebega #03: Sprottenham #04: Bewickton
Yes I am glad that at least a few of them are trying to find ways to earn something and learn skills.
@Sprottenham: Thanks for comments.
Yes I like to make my own spreadsheet driven rules and systems - also did that in other stories made for other games.
Interesting new students and even more interesting that they all get along so good! I surely did think that Myra would have made some problems because of her background (rich) and her snob trait.
Poor Michiko and Charles, they had led a hard life. I hope for them that now their life improves much!
They already look much better, even their skin isn´t as pale as before anymore.
This is a very intereresting way of playing, I really like to watch what is doable with the game and how self-subsistent the village and the Sims can be.
Good that they try for a (political) order, the only problem I have with it is that only the rich ones could be part of the elders assembly. The poor must have a chance, too. (and maybe some younger people should join later, too)
https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/953447/streuner-a-cat-s-tale
Yes I thought about it a lot. My conclusion was the the most realistic was that sadly the rich have ways to always get to power. Just as we have few leaders in the world under 30 but a bunch that is half dead
Music:
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 25th of June 2025
Had concerns about Elder Jenny Richard lack of social interaction with the settlement members, but lately she had visits by Elder Michiko Vaughan, scholars Myra Frances and Elea Helsby, getting more involved in the community.
Regarding the scholars they have all become well integrated, lately young Myra Frances started fishing with John Hallett and now the are the best of friends.
Just a friendly hug
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 2nd of July 2025
I have noticed that often the settlers take a nap whenever they are a bit tired. To the point where they sleep or are awake at odd hours. I talked about this with the other Elders and we have decided to ask all residence not to nap (*) to keep the production level higher.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – July 2725
Myra’s just turned 16 years old. Thing are moving fast with her, from being a young very inward personality, she is now very social and adds a lot to the household. She cooks a lot making such nice quality waffles in the morning for everyone to enjoy when they get up. Now the best cook amongst the students.
Terry also started showing interest in fishing, he took the bike for a very long rider, fishing so far away that no other settler has been there before. Sadly, he forgot to fix the sink before he went off even though it has been broken for days. The sink over at Jenny’s also broken and he haven’t fixed that either. Taking up others settlers time cleaning up the water from the floors.
Jenny Richards Diary 11th of July 2725 AD
It has been very hot and sunny lately. I have mostly stayed inside having some visitors and I started my first oil painting.
Biographies:
Michiko Vaughan
Michiko was born in may in the year 2669, now 63 years old. She was born and raised in the nomadic Hatchee tribe living at the north west around the Fuzz-Fatchee lakes. When she was 46 years old her tribe came to warfare with a coalition of small tribes invading from the east and was driven from the lake.
Michiko had four children, the first died as a child, her husband and eldest sons died in the war. After which she and her last son Charles fled south.
Charles Vaughan
Charles was born 36 and a half year ago at the banks of Fatcheema lake. His farther was a proud Hatchee hunter Amito Vaughan, his mother of half Hatchee and half Asian descent. As a young boy Charles was sent to school in a larger settlement close to the lake, separated from his family for 6 years. War broke out and he was sent back to his tribe.
(*) Editorial:
Greg Preston household: Cash 7.405 – Net Worth 28.266
Jenny Richards household: Cash 8.460 – Net Worth 16.654
Michiko Vaughan household: Cash 1.541 – Net Worth 12.477
MODDING:
Although my sims can’t survive without help they have had a bad habit of giving donations to welfare, the option has now been removed for the time being.
Attempted to remove or at least decrease napping, as it is getting absurd. (something like 70%+ napping)
Ran into a problem I can’t solve. Being a writer Charles continues to buy laptop, killing the economy of the family. Can’t find a mod to change pricing to something he can’t afford or otherwise prevent him from getting that item. The first few times I sold it for him, but as he continues to buy it again. I will let him keep until the family runs out of money. Just won’t take pics. of it as that would spoil the storyline.
Myra talking to Jenney outside Jenny’s home
@Tamijo I clicked on the song but apparently the video is unavailable.
It is interesting to read what the settlers are willing to do on their own.
I would be hard pressed to not interfere with a sim going fishing instead of repairing the leaking sinks and buying laptaps that are not needed.
I guess it is like any society some will do more than others. While some will rely on others to take care of them.
Have you looked at Nraas money to see if it would help with restricting buying?
I've installed it, but basically I use it to force deadbeat parents to pay child support and don't mess with any of the other settings. I'm not fond of numbers or math.
It's nice to see Myra doing so well, making friends and improving her cooking skills to help everyone out.
The Cowboy and the Mermaid
Thanks for reply
Will look at Nraas money right away to see if it can help me.
The song was working for me, so may be a country restriction – changed it to another version
Interesting background story for Michiko and Charles. Makes me think they come from something that resembles native American people.
Sub blogs: #01 Sunset Valley. #02: Lake Onebega #03: Sprottenham #04: Bewickton
@Tamijo It is part of the Story Progression modules. You can set it so it automatically sells most items from their inventory. That is true by default I believe. I don't think it will stop them buying some things when they are not active though.
The Cowboy and the Mermaid
Episode 13 – Poor Boy
Music:
Greg Preston’s Diary 22th of June 2725 AD
I’m in doubt really, if I should complaint further to St. John’s Foundation about the way Terry acts. Yes, he was doing something useful, but no not what was expected and needed.
Michiko came to the rescue of Jenny, just rang the bell and walked straight over to the sink with a wrench in her hand, fixing her tap.
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 30th of June 2725
The new Vaughan family have already settled in well, the son Charles have written 200 pages, finishing a short story and already at his 2nd book. Looks like they might make it trough the first hard years after all.
When not at home writing Charles is often reading at the settlement community lot, just as his mother often does
Extracts from “The Wilderness” by Michiko Vaughan
I did not tell anyone at the time, but my health was not as it should be. I still suddenly felt dizzy and even fainted from time to time.
Greg Preston’s Diary 6th of June 2725 AD
Yesterday morning was eating breakfast with Terry, some of Mira’s delicious waffles.
“So, what is the issues you got, still not having fixed the water in the kitchen” I asked.
Terry: “The issue is that I need to make a new gasket, Michiko used the last one at Jennys”, Haven’t got around to it as I’m also working at one of the toilets, that is not working either.
I said: “Terry you fix that sealing NOW, I will get someone else to fit the toilet”
John took care of the toilet today while singing something like
“Don't mind the rain - Don't mind snow - Don't mind nothin' If I know - You will be - right here with me”
I don’t think he was thinking about me.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation – August 2725
John have been fantastic recently, with some help from Terry he has repaired everything we needed to keep the house running.
John is still singing that song while working. In love with someone?
On top of that he also spent time at the lake, trying to ad even more to the settlement. The two youngest have really stepped up, such a thrill. John caught 5 fish in this period.
From Elea Helsby’s letter to the Helsby family, written 16th of August 2725
It may sound sad that my best friend here is the dog, but it is not, I just love him so much.
My best friend amongst the humans is Terry, we have many good times together and I also like the young John. Whereas the girl Myra Frances is odd, well maybe if I get to know her better. All the adults are ok’ish, but they keep to themselves most of the time.
Teddy and I, looking at the local flora
Editorial:
Greg Preston household: Cash 6.513 – Net Worth 27.233
Jenny Richards household: Cash 8.409 – Net Worth 16.247
Michiko Vaughan household: Cash 4.760 – Net Worth 11.520
MODDING:
Solved the “Autonome Repair” issue that I think many have had, lots of treads about it but no solution, as Nraas have very little information compared to the sick number of options in Retuner.
Here is a guide – can by used on any object but not always with the same options.
The extreme number I use (9000) is far above what I think is needed just to be on the safe side.
This is not sure to fix the water (or whatever) within hours or even days, that all depends on when a sim finds the time out of his free will, in my test sometimes very fast (as in the story, I was lucky, no cheating, when I had found a solution I reloaded and we play the first load), but I have also seen many days with a room full of dirty plates.
The sink is the worst as the sims do not get anything from it, (they don’t seem to relate the dirt directly to the sink), better with bath and toilet where they have a need to fix (bladder/ hygiene) so they tend to do that faster.
You have to check everything – it is not that the water is one setup, sink, bath, shower ect is all a separate setup.
This is how it is done.
Charles decided to sell the laptop without my help, might be the cash reserves was too low
Myra visiting Charles at his home, they are not very good friend now, but maybe this is the beginning of a friendship
@Tamijo It is good that others in the settlement are learning to do the handiness skill and helping out with broken objects.
Michiko should get an exam up at the mountain! I'm sure they have someone who could check her out. I hope so.
Sounds like Terry needs to have a supervisor to push him to work.
John is doing so well perhaps he could be Terry's boss.
It sounds like a few are starting to develop closer relationships. They do need some children running around.
I'm glad you were able to fix the issue with some of the autonomous things that need to happen.
The Cowboy and the Mermaid
@bekkasan
Not a bad idea to bring Michiko to a doctor (not sure it would help but who knows)
John might easily end up as Terry's boss - he is so hard working
To many are young still, but Jenny and Charles could find love, otherwise I guess we have to wait a while for children. Unless a new family comes down from the mountains to join us.
It's just a case of choosing my priorities, Stages
It's just the art of changing our perception
But when I see that girl it messes my security
So please don't leave me alone with her
The song is meant to explain why John just walk away from Myra, although we must expect him to have feelings for her, she also makes him feel insecure, after all he is just 16 and she belongs to a much higher social level in the mountain village.
Music:
Greg Preston’s Notes for next Ent Council meeting, written 31th of August 2725
Our settlement has rapidly developed into a fishing community. Everyone except Charles and Jenny are now fishing at lot. My only important worries are the Vaughan’s economy, they do not seem to have a plan that can get then through the winter, their cash reserves are dropping fast.
From Myra Frances letter to her mother, written 8th of September 2725
Dear Mother.
I am writing to you here from our humble home by the river, on an old typewriter we have got.
Sorry for not writing earlier, You have probably heard we had settlers in your village back in May, but I have been very busy and it was a little hard for me to find my place in the group back then.
Now everything is much better, I have become good friends with my fellow student Elea Helsby lately. I am also very good friends with our Elder Jenny Richards, a very special woman who have lived an interesting life, alone in the wilderness for 7 years.
I know you will laugh about this and think I am young and stupid, but I have to share my feelings with you.
I have fallen in love with one of the students, a wonderful and beautiful boy called John Hallett, we talk a lot and has spent many hours together. I am very much in love with him, but I am not sure the feeling is mutual. I have tried to flirt a little last night, but he said he had to go fishing.
From Greg Preston’s Report to St. John’s Educational Foundation September 2725 AD
I am generally quite satisfied with our four students, both their work effort and their socially behaviour has improved over the latest month. Everyone taking part in important daily routines, cleaning, cooking, feeding the animals, harvesting egg’s and fishing. At the same time, they are developing tight bonds and none of them are arguing a lot or being condescending towards each other.
Greg Preston’s Diary 10th of September 2725 AD
I left the settlement yesterday morning, now traveling to the mountain village, to attend the last Council meeting before the winter comes. Before I left, I was collecting gemstones and fur to sell in “Ent”. Finding some valuable rocks with diamond and gold inside.
Now I am at the end of the lowland about to enter the mountain area. I will camp here for the night.
Jenny Richards Diary 20th of September 2725 AD
I like fall. More people are inside and I can visit at their homes without being too much outside.
I visited Michiko a few times and we have become much closer now. I also like Charles a lot, but he is a bit weird. He plays air-guitar! When I say, come over at try a real guitar, he just smiles.
Editorial:
Greg Preston household: Cash 7.444 – Net Worth 28.010
Jenny Richards household: Cash 8.342 – Net Worth 16.180
Michiko Vaughan household: Cash 811 – Net Worth 7.508
The Vaughan typewriter broke down, although Charles is a high-level handyman, he has not yet attempted to fix it. Instead, he again bought a laptop. The impact on their cash/net worth is horrible if he keeps buying and selling such expensive items.
As I mentioned several episodes back, I would introduce some plants on community lots to try lure the settlers into gardening. Now have planted some on the “Elder Assembly lot”, so far no one reacted towards them.
The picture of Greg in the mountain was staged.
The air-guitar virus is spreading.
@Tamijo So sad that even in a world where catastrophic events have happened people still want to categorize each other into little niches and boxes and keep you there.
Love is love! I'm sad for Myra and a little for John as he seemed to care for her. But perhaps he doesn't truly love her and that is why he can feel insecure in their relationship. He is very young even though I expect living in times like they do would make them mature faster with more responsibilities on them.
Considering how much time Jenny had to be outdoors I don't blame her for wanting to stay inside. Glad she does venture out to see some of the others though. Not good to be alone all the time.
I had to grin at the air guitar pictures.
Bummer the spending issue persists. That does happen in real life though so perhaps he will learn from it if they go broke. Some folks think the AI is smart and does learn. I'm still on the fence about that. I saw too many silly things that happened that shouldn't happen with the AI if it was so smart. That is why I got Story Progression from Nraas. I'm still learning all that it can do.
The Cowboy and the Mermaid
@bekkasan
Thanks for comments
I also run Story Progression from Nraas, hope it will eventually make him think more about the economy, may have to look into it deeper to see if there is something in the settings.
Oh, teenage love. Cute, but also understandable how the boy can be insecure about the upper class girl and not realize she actually likes him too. Myra is looking like a fine young woman though, with her nice clothes standing outside with the umbrella.
The typewriter is a really nice touch. Haha, and the air guitar. Its a much easier instrument to play, (with the right background music) it sounds awesome everytime.
Sub blogs: #01 Sunset Valley. #02: Lake Onebega #03: Sprottenham #04: Bewickton
@Sprottenham
Thanks for comment. I hope the two youngsters will fine love, they look good together