Gossips #11

(Year 232, Spring) I hope you had a nice Winterfest! Here is my latest bunch of gossips to entertain you while you cuddle in front of your fireplace and stuff yourself with those final Winterfest cookies! It's my 11th edition, and I really can't believe I am still doing this thing! *shrug*. Winter is less busy than Summer, but I've searched high and low to please each of you!

So, let's go! We will start in the celebrity ghetto, also known as Del Sol Valley! Super popular singer-songwriter Suzi Sushi (42), has grown up and is now married a Prince! Last year they had a son, and Suzi has complained about her own fame! She has considered giving up the limelight.

People Chamber - Culture & Entertainment Department

(Year 231, Winter) This is the third part of a brief introductions to the 5 departments of People Chamber. They are Law & Justice, Trades & Taxes, Culture & Entertainment, Health & Welfare, and finally Science & Education. Here is the current 4 seats of Culture & Entertainment dept.!

Left to right: Anaya Jang (Minister), Stella (Kraft) Tocker, Henrik Kraft, and Priest Antonius Dipperwell.

This department deals with all cultural aspects of our community, including museums, holidays, stages for performances, film and photo/painting industry and much more. They also oversees the History Book, and the Artists Guild. The 4 members include the secondary representative from Church of Similius. That is not a random assignment, because this is the department that handles anything regarding the stately religion which is - Church of Similius.

New Bowling Hall Opened by Judith

(Year 232 Spring) Last night Mazaloom got its very first bowling hall! It is located in the basement under the Gym at Commercial Area of Gloomville, and although the location is not perfect as visitors might switch between the gym and the bowling, it is a perfect location to train your bowling skill!

And, to throw the very first bowling ball on the opening night, no other than global star Judith Ward had volunteered to show off her bowling skills!

- I played bowling when I lived in Sim City, and also my 2nd husband, film director Simerin Ward, was into this nice sport. I would normally beat him, though! We actually discussed founding the first bowling alley in Del Sol Valley back in the days... My Simerin sure had the funds needed, *shrug*

A new political party announced

(Year 232, Spring) Today, on Community Day (1st day of Spring), a brand new political party was announced! How exciting is that? Mazaloom kingdom already has 3 parties, all currently represented at People Chamber with 2 to 10 seats. Now a new group of politicians seems to aim for a bit of the national community cake; the SIM WORLD party.

The new party was officially founded Winter Year 231, and their first annual gathering will take place later in Spring, like all parties do. Then they will decide their political focus and their Core group for the coming 5 years. Their founder, and assumingly first Leader-to-be, is Roger Mistfield (67) from Chestnut Ridge. He wants a party focusing more on international relations, as well as more benefits regarding custom content. They also ask for a clearer difference between political parties: Today each party covers so many focuses that it gets hard for the voter to spot the obvious difference.

Mazaloom Skating Championship

(Year 231, Winter) Last night Valeria Phlum (28) from San Myshuno came 3rd in the bi-annual «Mazaloom Skating Championship». She was a favorite, as she won the gold medal 2 years ago, but now her performance was slightly underwhelming. She is currently a University student. This year another favorite won the championship, namely the long timer Sarah Woh (48) from Tredony.

Valeria Phlum won bronze.

The contest is individual, based on both talents/skills and impression/judges. There is a limit of 3 contenders from each region, meaning maximum 24 participants and a full night event as they all go two rounds. Last night only the hosting Region 12 had a full delegation, though.

More than 90 Videos from my Screenshots Folder

Did you know that my Simmerville Screenshots videos on youtube has reached episode #91? It's a nifty way to clean up my huge screenshots folder. Each video is only 23 pictures lasting about 2 minutes, with some random world or build shots, but also including scenes from my played households. They are normally mixed, but these days there will be a few episodes devoted to screenshots from Tomarang!

Perfect for your next break?

Tomarang: Ravenot Palace

So, we are all busy in Tomarang? This time I had more planning to do than usually, because Tomarang was a perfect fit for my Mazaloom's neighboring nation, Empire of Snorthia. The story was there already, and many of the local family names were in previous notes, too! So, I "only" had to add all those details while integrating those old tidbits. History is that the Sloth Family conquered three old kingdoms back in Year 41, they were Simerinia, Yacothia and Komorebia. Tomarang is in southern part of Yacothia. They lost their power, but today they are the three regions of the empire. Back then the fresh Emperor gave 7 families of each region status as protected families, and now it was time for me to dive into the old dynasties of the Yacothia region. The 1st family resides in Yacothia city, but the 2nd protected family is the very top of Tomarang - the Ravenot Family.

They reside their Ravenot Palace, located at Morensong to be close to the Temple. This family is the protector of the Temple, protected by the Death flower, and Air is their element.

Priest Rolab Ravenot (39) is the 6th head of this family, and the 5th generation of temple priests. He is actually serving the old Jacobian Faith, that was huge back in the Medieval era - it actually used to be Mazaloom kingdom's official state religion back then. But first head of the Ravenot family was also serving a temple, so therefore Rolab does, too.

Download: Tiger Sanctuary Photo Studio

In celebration of the day (release of Sims 4 For Rent expansion pack), here comes a small attempt to make your visit to the tiger sanctuary rabbithole a bit more exciting! If your sims are in Tomarang on vacation, they obviously want to bring back a picture like this!

So, missing the real tiger is no excuse for not impressing your neighbors back home! I will place this version of the Photo Studio (Get To Work EP required) in the basement of «The Screaming Gecko», maybe along with some imaginary souvenirs shop. These items can be placed on  the lot regardless of lot category, they will only be used by your active sims, anyway.

First official Landlords

(Year 231, Winter) At a brief but full packed event taking place at People Chamber last night, the new Residential Rental routine was officially announced, and the Merchants Guild core group leader, Corinne Dougham, introduced the brand new deed that all major Landlords must purchase. And why was HRM King Tarriot there? He was the first to receive this new deed!   

Left to right: HRM King Tarriot, Claudine Tangerin Mester Shine, Corinne Dougham Mester
Crestville, Malcolm Landgraab Mester Cacti, Nina Caliente, and Eleanor Elderberry.

These days we see a lot of buzz regarding the residential rental business. We had plenty of rentable homes in the past, but the new system makes it more interesting to run this as a business, and - the restrictions might actually bring some exclusivity to the Landlord title. Mazaloom kingdom can only provide 56 units (7 per 8 regions) and because we now require the bigger Landlords to hold a limited deed, the business will not be an option  to just anyone.

Residential Rental: Landlord Rules

(Year 231, Winter) The residential rental market seems to explode these days, and it is now easier than ever to find affordable rental units in most regions. All kinds of standards are covered, from the glamorous apartments in Del Sol Valley to the hardly-enough-space-to-move units in Newcrest - well suited for singles or elders. We've also seen some farmers setting up a small rental cottage intended for renting farm workers - most of their rent is traditionally paid by tending crops or animals, while the Landlord is to harvest crops. This model also existed for generations with the vicarages of Church of Similius.

Leader of Trades & Taxes dept. Fanny Silverbone (LEFT party)

With all these sudden changes, which of course also might result in a significant population boost, the Trades & Taxes dept. has been busy deciding on a new set of rules - the Landlord Rules. There is also a new public webpage listing all rentable units and their landslords.

Olivia Clump Retires Once Again

(Year 231, Winter) The popular jazz singer, Olivia Clump (78) has taken a final sep out from the stage light. Years ago she did retire, but felt the urge to sing anyway, and had a successful comeback at the local club in her home district, Newcrest. This time it is serious, though. As she stated in a press release, there will be no return.

The elderly star recently got everyone's attention as she was awarded the first ever Mazaloom Achievement Diploma for being perhaps our best skilled resident. That is, being an expert in fields like Singing, Cooking, Painting and more. She was handed the diploma by no other than HRH Crown Princess Emireza.

Church of Similius goes Online!

(Year 231, Winter) High Priest Ansgar Profedius surpries Mazaloom this morning, when he in a smashing press release proudly announced that the very old fashioned Church of Similius is now online!

High Priest Ansgar Profedius in his office at the Similius Cathedral, Oldtown in Windenburg.

It has been nothing but silence from the High Priest since their latest reaction to HRM King Tarriot accusing the state church for not treating their women with respect and equal rights as males. The conflict is of interest because Church of Similius happens to be the stately religion, and besides the King is not supposed to express himself about politics.

The Sims 4 For Rent - new EP coming soon!

December 7th a new Expansion Pack is released for The Sims 4. I am excited, although I'm not yet sure whether it will be a release day grab, or not. More about that further down. Main reason for this post is to highlight a few of the features I'm looking forward to, the most. Well, with the upcoming gaming stream session hosed by EA, we will probably learn more about features we did not yet know about...

My biggest ahoy is the world Tomarang. It looks tropical, colorful, bright and inviting. Like a more urban Sulani, with more focus on builds and street life, and less beach life. The main selling point is the management of rental units, meaning you can play as a Landlord or Tenant. To many of us this will be a game changer, because households will be more diverse, and it will also be a fun build challenge creating a functional lot wit multiple rental units and shared areas etc. It's fun having a feature that won't get repetitive so soon, because there are so many sorts of complexes that can be built, and there might be more to it than what we know today. Another big thing for me is the new culture that I can't wait to explore.

People Chamber - Trades & Taxes Department

(Year 231, Winter) This is the second part of brief introductions to the 5 departments of People Chamber. They are Law & Justice, Trades & Taxes, Culture & Entertainment, Health & Welfare, and finally Science & Education. This group occupies the  the 4 seats of Trades & Taxes dept.:

Left to right: Vice-President Fanny Silverbone (leader), Charloman Au. (Crumpleon) Dougham,
Lord Bennet Ross, and Polly Peters.

Trades & Taxes department mostly deal with trade affairs, bot national and international, produce deeds, real estate, misc. possessions incl. stock ownership, yellow pages and more. It is normally lead by the Vice-President. In addition there will be 3 members. This period the department is equally split between LEFT and RIGT, while the MIDDLE party is absent.

Simmerville Show featuring Rentals - in the Making

Just a quick heads up - Guest caretaker, Jane Gargoyle, will soon be back on the 6th edition of my Simmerviille Show. So will the host, Fritz Mervil and of course plenty of guests. This edition will cover many topics, and one guest you might find familiar, Malcolm Landgraab (78). That's right, he is guesting the show because he is a true Landlord, and he will share a new family project of his involving rentals... in Tomarang, even?

Jane Gargoyle, a celebrity in Mazaloom, has appeared on all editions of the Simmerville Show.

Jane, the vampire, will as usual take good(?) care of the guests, backstage...

People Chamber: Law & Justice department

(Year 231, Winter) It's been a while since the Year 230 election, so it's on time with a brief introduction to the 5 departments of People Chamber; Law & Justice, Trades & Taxes, Culture & Entertainment, Health & Welfare, and finally Science & Education. Learn about Mazaloom's fine Politicians!

This article introduces the current 5 seats of Law & Justice department.

Left to right: President Rob Wilder (RIGHT), Ingar Wunderberg (RIGHT), Bill Loffertop (LEFT),
Otto Vittingham (RIGHT), and High Priest Ansgar Profedius (Church of Similius).

This department, often seen as the top department, is normally lead by the President. In addition there will be 4 members including the High Priest of Church of Similius. The state religion's representatiives are currently being debated, but the discussion is kept out of the Regional Reform discussions.

Crazy Man being thrown out

(Year 231, Winter) In StrangerVille a man named George Cahill has occupied some land for a couple decades. He used to be a Pilot, and he crash landed his airplane «Old Penelope» in the Villian desert, just outside the Plaza area. Under the destroyed plane, he built his little underground cave, where he since then has been living - illegally.

Last week a small group of Military officers assisted by security staff forced themselves into the cave to arrest the man.

Royal palace: Stately visit

(Year 231, Winter) This week the royal family of Mazaloom is hosting a state visit, as the royals of Sea kingdom spent a full three days at the royal palace in Del Sol Valley. If there were political maters to be discussed between the two monarchs, they were easily overshadowed by Crown Princess Emireza's 20th birthday.

Left to right: HRH Crown Princess Emireza of Mazaloom, HRH Queen Venezia and HRM King Tarriot of Mazaloom, HRM King Salomar and HRH Queen Medaka of Sea, HRH Prince Weever.

The royal guests counted HRM King Salomar with Queen Medaka, and their youngest son Prince Weever (31). Our royals visited Sea kingdom for Crown Prince Longjav's grand wedding earlier this year.

Mazaloom Excluded from Snorthia International Winter Cup!

(Year 231, Fall) Only weeks before the big event takes place, the Emperor of Snorthia has announced that Mazaloom's athletes are no longer welcome to participate! The sudden boycott affects several of our elite athletes that were already planning to participate in Snowboarding and Skiing.

Tomarang: Emperor Orchor of Snorthia boycotts Mazaloom's athletes!

There's no doubt that Emperor Orchor of Snorthia did this in response to the ongoing cultural conflict between Empire of Snorthia and Mazaloom kingdom. What started with our king's Royal Chief Attendant, Ms Patricia Maiden (50), revealing that Snorthia's "old" and highly treasured painted portrait actually showed Ms Maiden's mother. Emperor Orchard claimed that Mazaloom had offended the empire deeply by ruining their cultural treasure, and that it will take a long time to mend the relation. And, now he shows that he is serious by boycotting Mazaloomian winter sports athletes.

First Winner announced: Mazaloom Achievement Award

(Year 231, Fall) This Spring, at the annual Great Mazaloom Gathering that took place in Tartosa, HRM King Tarriot announced the brand new Mazaloom Achievement Award. The prize is to be handed out every Fall by HRH Crown Princess Emireza, and is all about skills! Anyone reaching level 10 in any skill can be nominated by anyone, by contacting the R.P.O. (Royal Palace Office). There's no deadline because nominees will stay in the pool for as long as they live.

Last night the very first award winner was announced at the Planet Honey Pop! karaoke bar. Did the R.P.O. pick a worthy winner?

HRH Crown Princess Emireza announcing the first Mazaloom Achievement Award to Olivia Clump.

The Mazaloom Achievement Award Year 231 goes to jazz legend Olivia Clump (78)!

Jubilee Lunch at Royal Palace

(Year 231, Fall) Just before Fall greets Winter, HRM King Tarriot hosted this year's Jubilee Lunch at the royal palace. This is a tradition where a select of members of the great peerage get invited, allowing the Monarch to show them some honor regarding their anniversaries. Every year each region's high nobility Peer will send a list of upcoming anniversaries to the royal palace office, suggesting for them to either get a royal visit or to be invited for the next lunch. The Jubilee Lunch takes place most years, but is skipped or postponed if there are too few persons on that guest list.

Left to right: HRM King Tarriot, Baroness Elvira de Sür-Blyth with husband Baron Hugo, High Priest Ansgar Profedius of the Church of Similius, Diego Lobo, Raspoutin Honeydew with wife Elvira.

When your House or your Peerage celebrates an anniversary, you might find yourself drinking tea next to the King! Some years the Queen will participate, also.

Dramatic changes coming to the Large Peerage

(Year 231, Fall) At the latest monthly press conference at the Royal Palace, a big adjustment to the Large Peerage was hinted, but not yet explained in detail. Why would anyone do this, when knowing it will trigger speculation?

Royal Chief Attendant, Ms Patricia Maiden, lead the conference, where the biggest newspapers and TV channels were represented. They did not know what was coming, and Ms Maiden seemed less prepared than she usually is.

- The Regional Reform 232 is hitting us in a little more than one year. Although the regional adjustments are big stuff that must be approved by all three chambers (Royal Chamber, People Chamber, and High Court), there are a few elements that will be totally up to the Royal Chamber to decide, because it regards the Large Peerage, only, and will normally not require approval by any other instance.

Lady Corva Saxor graduated

(Year 231, Fall) This Summer Lady Corva Saxor (25) graduated from the Butler Academy, and with top grades she secured herself a spot on the high school's new wall of fame!

You might wonder how a daughter of the Duke of Meadows could end up at a school like the Butler Academy? Well, it is not as weird as it sounds. Many children from the top aristocracy do actually study here. It may not be their top ambition in life to become a Butler or other Servant, although that would secure them a position in a better residence, but these finer families are actually expected to serve aristocracy. If you are not the main heir of your House, well - then you were raised to accept being the child that will be married off to another House, serving Military or joining a Monastery. Or - serving a higher ranked House than the one that raised you. This is why most families of aristocracy are expected to provide minimum 3 kids. So, just where does Lady Corva fit the bill?

Trial Verdict: Amy Cracrow vs Victor F. Tangerin

(Year 231, Fall) Last year the then 17 years old Amy Cracrow sued former Region 12 Mayor, Victor F. Tangerin (then 72) for spreading the White Eyes Syndrome by having minimum 10 unlegitimate children with different women. The case was brought to Court House last year, and this week sees the verdict!

Victor (Fling) Tangerin was found guilty of constantly spreading his rare eye syndrome and for not paying financial support to his numerous unlegitimate children. Court stated that it is not illegal to have children outside marriage, but when having 10 of them over a short period, the activity can no longer be described as a "random woohoo affair". But most important, knowing his DNA profile, he should have taken precaution.

HRH Crown Princess Emireza turns 20

(Year 231, Fall) This morning The Royal Palace Office shared a couple pictures on their Simstagram account. In case you forgot: HRH Crown Princess Emireza is now twenty yeas old!

There's still five more years until she is no longer a teenager, but twenty is still some sort of a milestone in these circles. She is now old enough to handle any official tasks on her own, and she can even speak up at the Royal Chamber meetings, that she attended since she turned 15, but just to observe and learn. CP Emireza will now probably get on the payroll, and we expect her to take on more community engagements from next year.

Nectars and Rumors

(Year 231 Fall) Months ago these photos were taken to show off a regular day in a Nectar maker's life. Since then a situation has ocurred in this very household of Tartosa, and you probably already realize it's all about Baroness Amalia de Vert - once again...

Her civic name is Amalia Ellice Luxe-Hamper Hoffstar (30), and last winter she was granted a new barony by her half-brother, King Tarriot. Amalia is not a member of the royal family and she was not born into the royal House. She was often causing trouble, as she grew up with the 4 royal children at the royal palace, Chateau Peak.

Max Villareal and Lilith Pleasant

(Year 231 Fall) This is no longer hot news, but not everyone picked up the fact that Max and Lilith got married. They met while Lilith was still renting a house in Britechester, together with her sister Angela. Back then Max was in trouble as he took the job as a Butler at the Von Windenburg Estate, despite being too young and falsly claiming relevant education.

Max Villareal (31) is the current head of House of Villareal, that was established by Max' father, the late Jacques Villareal. Lilith Pleasant (41) already had a daughter, Linda-Sue (4), with George Cahill from Strangerville, a relation that was said to last for one night only.

Gossips #10

(Year 231, Fall) Welcome to the TENTH edition of my gossiping column! Yay! Ten editions is quite cool if you ask me! Despite social season just closing with the annual grand ball, this time I had to skip the bigger names in both nobility and royalty terms. But there is so much gossips anyway, and Mrs Ward did not manage to stay out of sight this time either...!

I'm Antoinette Morck, milk farmer from Henford-on-Bagley, but many years as a city resident thought me to keep an eye on celebrities of Mazaloom kingdom, and this is where I share!

I did travel a bit, including Chestnut Ridge, but first let's start in Windenburg!

Pepperstones become Tenants

(Year 231 Fall) Former President and wife, Laurent & Aronica Pepperstone have moved from Tredony to San Sequoia. They are now tenants of royal property, Sunneva House, located as Gilbert Gardens, a very old estate, but renovated a couple decades ago.

Laurent Pepperstone (60) was Mazaloom's President representing the LEFT party until last year. Like most ex-Presidents do, Pepperstone withdrew from his party's core group, but he is currently the Mayor of Region 3 Tredony. This is not changing as he moves addresses from Region 3 to Region 6.

- Mayors that are elected for 5 years are found locally, but they are allowed to move elsewhere after the election if they can still tend to their obligations. Even in a different region, he explains. - If the party requests it, I will reconsider my position. And I can of course not be re-elected for Region 3 unless I move back before the Year 235 election. So far I decided to make it work.

The Pepperstones recently moved to Sunneva House, a nice property owned by the Mazaloom Royal Trust (which is the Crown).

The Apple Nectar Lord

(Year 223, Fall) If you ever visited the Armed Gnome Pub located at Finchwick in Henford-on-Bagley, you probably saw the painting of a man wearing a white wig, raising his glass of nectar. You might have thought that he is proposing a toast, but in fact he is inspecting a new batch of locally produced Apple Nectar. The man is no other than the first Lord Rossie, or to use his full name: Duke Schubret of Rossie.

Did you know that this nectar loving man lived in Henford-on-Bagley 200 years ago?

The duke died before the «Great Apple War», which took place around Year 50. Still, many locals often refer to that war victory when describing this painting. Apples was a local tradition already back then, and the Apple Nectar was an established local product, although not yet very well known outside the Rossie dukedom. The war was not about apples at all, but it's said the victory was possible thanks to locals throwing apples at the foreign soldiers. It tells us that the Henford locals were protecting their area, but also that they must have had a huge storage of this red fruit, most likely intended for nectar production.

Horse Ranch: The Training Grounds - 4 of 5

Here comes the 4th chapter of my unscripted mini series «The Training Grounds», where features of the The Sims 4 Horse Ranch EP are explored. The Training Grounds is a residential lot owned by the M.E.A., rented by Stian. There he lives alone with his 3 rescued horses, and he just started entering competitions.

The horses Tornado, King and Saffron all seemed to like their new home. Stian Pratt-Anderson (56) recently entered with King for the Show Jumping competition, and they won Silver in the Beginner class.

Horses - Breeds, Traits, Skills and Competitions

Ever wondered what horse breed to get or what traits would be best for a certain skill or competition discipline?

Mazaloom kingdom has a well established Equestrian Association, based in Chestnut Ridge (Region 7), but with 3 clubs that can be joined by residents from any region. There is a clear rank between these clubs, and even within the clubs. Especially members of the Equestrian Contenders club are ranked according to their Master competition merits. The Community Section now provides a new section with detailed information that Horse lovers should find useful. There you can find what traits will make it easier (or harder) to build a horse's skills, and also what skills will help you winning competitions.

The Queen's Stables

It's always fun implementing the features of a new pack with my existing universe. Finally the large lot by the pond in Newcrest, in my kingdom the hood is named Rivercrest. The perfect spot for a royal stables!

This establishment was founded by Queen Evez, who died 33 years ago. She was an eager, if not so talented, Equestrian, and she wanted to have access to a royal stable on her travels away from Del Sol Valley. Military horses were trained in Chestnut Ridge and Oasis Springs, so The Queen's Stables were not involved with military strategies, although she was an extremely military focused Monarch.

Today the stables provide lodging for Royal Guard Majors, but the lot is rigged for many purposes.

Regional Reform Year 233

(Year 231, Summer) A regional reform is overdue and everyone agree that the Year 235 election shall be the first election based on the new region structure, where the number of People Chamber seats per region will better reflect each regions' population. Today Region 12's 3,264,300 residents represent 78,4 % of the kingdom's population, but are represented by 9 seats (=votes), which is less than 43% of the People Chamber. At the same time Region 8's 4,000 residents has 1 seat (nearly 5%). It means that if you live in Region 12 your vote has way less impact compared to residents of the smaller regions.

With a total of 4,163,688 residents, the ideal share would be 1 seat per 200,000 residents (this is without considering the 2 seats currently reserved Church of Similius).

Horse Ranch: The Training Grounds - 3 of 5

Here is the 3rd part of my unscripted mini series «The Training Grounds», where I explore parts of the The Sims 4 Horse Ranch EP. Stian Pratt-Anderson was forced to allow the Equestrian Club use his horses free of charge. The entire M.E.A. seems to work against him. Is it time to focus more on his equestrian dream?

Stian Pratt-Anderson (56) rents the old Chestnut Training Grounds, that's why he must obey the M.E.A.'s rules, even rules that were not mentioned in the rent agreement. He rescued two horses that visitors can borrow/rent for a ride. Stian is single, and his plan is to earn big money from winning competitions at the Equestrian Center. When he can afford it he will buy a small ranch for him and his rescued horses.

Sulani: Royal Wedding

(Year 231, Summer) This week several members of our royal family are visiting Sulani (Sea kingdom), as guests to the wedding of HRH Crown Prince Longjav.

Mazaloom always had a good relation to Sea kingdom, but recently also Sea was criticized by HRM King Tarriot for their old fashioned look at women. However, opinions are not enough to stir up the balance between the two nations, and King Tarriot and Queen Venezia have been steadily topping the Mazaloom guest delegation for this wedding. And they did not go alone - both Crown Princess Emireza and Prince Cecil joined them.

HRH Crown Prince Longjav (34) and Princess Lia (35) of Sea.

The Sea's royal family resides in Sulani, and while the ceremony would have certain modern elements, like the bride wearing a bright dress with a veil, the many old traditions of the area are essential. They still believe strongly in having the spirits' bless, definitely not less important for a royal wedding.

The wedding started at 3 AM - yes you got that right! Formal weddings take place at night, in order to have the newly wed couple meeting their first sunrise as part of the ceremony. The elements are important, such as nature, the spirits, the fire and of course the water. The bride normally carries no bouquet, as stealing from nature could be offending to the spirits. The floral decorations were massive, though.

Judith Ward reacts to Horse Ball

(Year 231, Summer) In a press release global movie star Judith Ward (67) reacts negatively to the currently marketed Horse Training Ball printed with her face. It is the Sim City based company Horse-of-Course, that has released the questioned design.

The film star claims: «Using my beautiful face commercially on this horrible product is not acceptable without my permission. Such a permission can only be given at a very high cost, as I'm not the slightest interested in horses. I claim Horse-of-Course, Inc. to remove the design from all stores immediately!»

Horse Ranch: The Training Grounds - 2 of 5

Here is the 2nd part of the mini series «Chestnut Training Grounds», where I explore parts of the The Sims 4 Horse Ranch EP). Can Stian Pratt-Anderson fulfill his dream of equestrian championship? What about his business idea of charging strangers for borrowing his rescued horse? And - can he keep the Equestrian Club out of sight? Most pictures are taken during gaming sessions, unscripted.

Stian Pratt-Anderson (56) is no hero, he just rents the old Chestnut Training Grounds and he rescued one horse. He protested when the Equestrian Foals club Leader, Lady Aili, suggested to use the Training Grounds for club meetings. Stian prefers peace and quiet, with plenty of time to tend to his mental wellness while getting ready to train the mare Tornado for future competitions.

At the same time he could tell something was wrong with the horse. Tornado had no horsey friends, and although their relation was building, Stian felt sorry for his new Needy mate. He knew Mini-goats were perfect company to a lonely horse, but having them jumping around would totally step on his nerves. Could he take Tornado for a ride to meet other horses?

Horse Ranch: The Training Grounds - 1 of 5

Here is the brief story of Chestnut Training Grounds, located at New Appaloosa (The Sims 4 Horse Ranch EP). It will feature several known sims of my Mazaloom kingdom, as they come to borrow a horse to practice their Horse Riding skill, as well as Stian Pratt-Anderson, a Military guy who just wants silence and suddenly finds himself surrounded by numerous horses and an eager Equestrian club! Along the way there will also be some of my findings and comments, because most pictures are taken during gaming sessions, me exploring, normally not following a planned script.

So, this is Stian Pratt-Anderson (56), born and raised locally. Being a Horse Lover he did try Horse riding back in his youth, but he never owned his own horse. With the Championship Rider aspiration, he always wanted to spend more time with these fascinating creatures, but he also is blessed with the High Maintenance trait. How do you combine a well rested soul and perfect toe nails with the hard work of cleaning a stable?

Plants and Climate Zones

(Year 231, Spring) Our kingdom covers 8 regions that represent numerous climate zones. It makes sense that some plants can not be grown in just any zone with the same good result. Today info on climate zone was added to the already existing "The Duchess' Botanical Table".

CEO Malcolm Landgraab looked a bit skeptical - will the climate zones interfere with his business plans?

Because we already knew what plants thrive in our own region, many would see this is a minor thing. But the project team found it worthy of a full scale press conference at Landgraab Science Institute in Oasis Springs. The results were presented and a few details regarding future focus revealed, because the job is far from completed! The project is a cooperate effort involving the Health & Welfare Dept., the Science & Education Dept., and the institute. Rebekah Starks (MIDDLE party), Leader of the Health & Welfare Dept. stated that the work includes environmental facts, that are not always accurate because each district can span multiple zones.

The Yacobian Cathedral of Aarbyville

Welcome to San Sequoia's tourist attraction no 1, the Yacobian Cathedral! I just got the The Sims 4 Growing Together expansion pack, and I had planned so much for this world that I'm still very busy building and adjusting. It's a lovely world, I'm positively surprised thanks to quite some simmer community negativism. I'll probably post more about this pack once I get to explore more - including gameplay. But for now, the cathedral!

I planned a church on this lot in Hoapwell Hills back when I saw the map. There are tons of details and history in my game, even in worlds that I don't yet own. San Sequoia is the center of Region 6, a region that in early years was called Aarbyville, based on the original hood, Aarby Wharf. Later on it grew, but the region kept it's old name.

The cathedral was built in the Medieval era, and I based the front on the Yacobian church from Sims Medieval. Back then Yacobian Faith was supported by the King, but around Year 100 Church of Similius became Mazaloom kingdom's official religion. Aarbyville is the only region that still has a Yacobian Priest, and because it's a cathedral, probably the largest of the kingdom, I gave him the Bishop title. However, The Yacobian Faith's impact is restricted to Region 6.

Snorthia scandal: Who was Limia Maiden?

(Year 231, Spring) The recent scandal involving Empire of Snorthia's national treasure, the painting "Moon Liza" and the front employee at Mazaloom kingdom's royal palace, Miss Patricia Maiden, is still seen as one of the worse controversies ever. Perhaps it needs a bit more explanation, or at least a little info on who the painted woman, Patricia Maiden's mother, was? 

How can the truth of a mysterious, assumingly old, portrait become such a big problem between the Emperor of Snorthia and the King of Mazaloom? Is it not just a painting? Does it really matter that the world now knows the true identity of the mysterious woman?

Grand Mazaloom Gathering addressing Equality

(Year 231, Spring) Every year in Spring the Royal Chamber hosts a semi-political symposium where members of the Aristocracy as well as the 8 regional Majors are invited. Every year there is a new main theme, and this year the focus was gender flexibility. The location do alternate a bit, and this year the Grand Mazaloom Gathering (GMG) took place at Hotel Oceana, Tartosa.

The huge doll in Hotel Oceana's reception area has become a symbol for this establishment, despite the original intention of having the display replaced every year.

This year's GMG theme attracted a nice group of attendees. This is not meant to be a political arena, but the themes debated are mostly related to actual community matters, and therefore also should be of interest to more politicians. Isn't this year's theme even a bit controversial?

Glimmerbrook: Brook Herbarium - part two (Underground)

Here is the 2nd part of the Brook Herbarium introduction. In the 1st part article you got to see the public part - that is all above ground level including the old graveyard. But that is only half the lot!

From the secret passage and through a wooden door...

Underground there exist a spacious area that has been used by the schools of magic for nearly a couple centuries. Most visitors have no idea, but members of those schools will normally come to Brook Herbarium simply to access the secret domain underground.

Gossips #9

(Year 231, Spring) Welcome to another gossips edition! This time some fresh Spring gossips, right before we get to this year's Social Season! I'm Antoinette Morck, milk farmer from Henford-on-Bagley, but many years as a city resident brought me pretty close to the celebrities cauldron, *shrug*. This is my 9th edition - hey, someone must have gotten those numbers wrong? It feels like I just got started!

I'm so glad that Region 8 Advorton, including Chestnut Ridge, seems to get more into publicity. I'll be looking out for regional gossips, hopefully there will be some in my next edition. Today I must warn  you there will be very little nobility gossips. I simply had to mash together news from so many other instances, there was no room for nobility!

Khloe and Fritz fooled the Press?

(Year 231, Spring) It was reported that TV-face Khloe Adrian (26) and Simmerville Studio CEO, Fritz Mervil (39) got engaged during a trip to Snorthia. We also knew that a wedding was scheduled for this year, assumingly in Summer. But, last night the famous couple was observed dining at Captain Blue in Gloomville, and what was shining on Khloe's left hand if not a wedding ring! Did the couple fool us all?

Khloe Adrian, best known for hosting the popular Bagged Talent TV-show, looked to be very happy. She and Fritz Mervil ate lobster, and both seemed to be in a very good mood.

Glimmerbrook: Brook Herbarium - part one (Public)

While I must wait a while to ride horses, pet goats and shear sheep, I decided to grab two gamepacks on the Summer sale. Cheaper, but enough to keep me busy. I already posted a bit about Werewolves GP, and few days ago I also got the Magic GP.

Each of Moonwood Mill and Glimmerbrook comes with just 5 lots. I like to be able to add another corner of my long going kingdom, without needing to fill in tons of new households. Glimmerbrook is part of my Region 8 Ticktop.

Right now I'm done adjusting the 5 lots of Glimmerbrook, so I want to share one of them: Brook Herbarium! I'll obviously keep fine tuning, but  am ready for a first tour anyway. This lot is very special to many locals, it holds a public part and a secret part underground, so I'll split this into two  articles, starting with what is public...

The Simmerville Show - Equestrian edition!

(Year 231, Spring) Fritz Mervil is back with The Simmerville Show, and this time most of he guests are Equestrians debating horses, ranch life and competitions.

Disclaimer: This edition was made before the Horse Ranch EP release, so if anything said is not matching the true content, forgive me *not* :) The focus of the show is how I play my game, and all sims involved - including the live audience - are actual sims from my game.

Download: Floral Walls

I created these CC walls ages ago, and today I discovered they were never added to my downloads page. So, I had to fix that as I use these floral patterns quite a lot, and wish I had the time to create more versions.

I think patterns that these are easy to use in multiple homes. Romantic or farmland sims might use wall like this, but also many others. They will look good in bedrooms and a granny's living room.

Horse Ranch EP - Pictures and more! *** MAP added ***

 So, the game trailer is here, and I grabbed a few pictures from it. Mainly for going ahead with my planning, but it's also fun to share :) Even if you watched the trailer, things go by so quickly!

So, the Horse Ranch EP is mostly about horses, but it also comes with the new world, Chestnut Ridge, and features like mini goats, mini sheep and nectar making! For not being a horse person, I'd say I'm super excited (9 of 10), and there's lots of planning to do!

Horses look very good, and they come with numerous traits and CAS customizing. It seems like there are pretty deep levels of relations involves as well, you will need to befriend your horse in order to perform well when it comes to riding and contests. I like that!

I think it will be quite hard succeeding with the main feature when playing on rotation, as the progress might take some time. So - I'll probably add horses to just a handful of my households, and spend some time with them, and keep the other 95+ households out. Some will be busy with sheep, and others with goats, though. And - I already have a detailed routine for nectar making (custom content), which will now get improved, involving other families. I learned from Cottage Living that adding all features to one household can easily become too much...

New Management at Gallery Ex-Po

(Year 231, Spring) Baroness Rose of Gloom (81) has finally announced her retirement. Her son, The Honorable Edward Bertophelus von Kaching (50) takes over the exclusive art and heirloom business, Gallery Ex-Po.

Edward von Kaching is eager to get started!

Baroness Rose has been dedicated to her little Newcrest business ever since her husband, the Baron of Gloom, gifted it to her shortly after their family moved to Gloomville. Back then Baron Bud had claimed the Gloom barony and the little family moved from SimCity to Gloomville because this peerage can not be held remotely. Their son Edward was not even born back then. His older sister is now married to one of the wealthiest men of the kingdom, Malcolm Landgraab.

Moonwood Mill: My backstory

(Year 231, Spring) I finally got the Werewolves GP and I'm currently adjusting most of the lots to match my own backstory. The basic lore will be kept, but I normally add my own twist. This time the defauly lots were great, so it feels a tad wrong to replace them with my own builds that will not be that great, but story line makes it necessary. Besides - main reason I grabbed this pack was to get 5 more lots :)

Grimtooth Manor is not your typical like other noble estates...

So, wanna hear a little about my backstory? The build pictured above is Grimtooth Manor (replacing the bar), estate of the Count of Crafthole. Crafthole is my name on Region 4, and also includes Crafthole and Copperdale. The region was ruled by the House of Paris ever since Medieval era. They helt the county for 230 years! They made great success as smiths, providing the King with military weapons, but with the Year 118 revolution, battles were replaced with diplomacy, and the services offered by the many smiths of Crafthole was suddenly n longer requested. House of Paris used to stay at Paris Tower in Copperdale, but then things happened...