The Ryman family takes a holiday at an expensive beach resort hotel to bond as a family after the death of their mother. However, not all family members are able to relax and enjoy themselves. The father struggles with grief and memories of his late wife. One of the daughters gets sunburn after ignoring warnings, while another daughter questions her about relationships. Overall the family faces challenges connecting with each other and finding peace during their vacation.
Mia has her birthday and comes of age. She had been in a casual relationship with Juan but wanted commitment. Juan reluctantly agrees to enter a serious relationship with Mia. At her party, Juan is reminded that others are interested in Mia. Mia hopes marital bliss with Juan is near despite issues with his behavior and their living situation. Calvin and DJ have a baby boy named Wally. This ends the chapter and generation 2 of the Ryman legacy.
Quinn participates in a bachelor challenge with several women vying for his affection. He struggles to connect with the women and finds the process awkward. Carmilla and Becca emerge as frontrunners, with Carmilla openly flirting with Quinn and Becca engaging in nudity and sexual humor. Quinn remains uncomfortable with the forwardness of some of the women.
This document summarizes Calvin's birthday party and Mia's birthday party. It discusses Calvin making friends with his cousins Cindy and Haley. It also talks about Nicola feeling ill and possibly being pregnant again. The document briefly discusses Sean's youth club and one of the boys there, Tom, who is training skills for an act of revenge against someone who killed a family member.
This summary provides an overview of the lives of several families in Simsfield after World War II. Rosalie and Bruce Thorne now have eight children keeping Rosalie busy. Shirley and Walter Gavigan only have one child, Dwight, which Shirley finds difficult. Alice and Nick Bradford are happy with their three children. Everyone remains concerned about the threat of communism and the Soviet Union.
Eileen faces her elder days as Sullivan tries to support their family. Eileen worries for Kate's future and proposes that Corey, her best friend, moves in to help care for Kate after she passes. On her final Tuesday, Eileen loses her mental faculties. Corey moves in as planned and Sullivan works to reassure Kate and keep their family functioning amid this difficult transition.
- James Bradford, patriarch of the Bradford family, has passed away. His wife Cindy is struggling with grief and loneliness without him.
- Steven Bradford has entered politics at the encouragement of his wife Mary and been elected to the state legislature. James had concerns about Mary's influence over Steven.
- New babies continue to join the Bradford family, including Peggy giving birth to Curtis after Denise, and Mary giving birth to Nathan after Gregory. Cindy finds joy in her great-grandsons.
The Ryman family takes a holiday at a campsite to get a change of scenery. However, the accommodations are more rustic than some of the children expected. Marina volunteers to babysit her younger siblings for a few hours so their parents can have some alone time, though she is hesitant about her ability to manage all the kids by herself.
Kate and Corey begin their life together after Kate's parents become senile. Corey had moved in years ago with the intention of marrying Kate. They go on their first date but it does not go well. However, Kate professes her love for Corey, and he feels the same. Not wanting to waste any time apart, Corey proposes and Kate joyfully accepts.
Mia has her birthday and comes of age. She had been in a casual relationship with Juan but wanted commitment. Juan reluctantly agrees to enter a serious relationship with Mia. At her party, Juan is reminded that others are interested in Mia. Mia hopes marital bliss with Juan is near despite issues with his behavior and their living situation. Calvin and DJ have a baby boy named Wally. This ends the chapter and generation 2 of the Ryman legacy.
Quinn participates in a bachelor challenge with several women vying for his affection. He struggles to connect with the women and finds the process awkward. Carmilla and Becca emerge as frontrunners, with Carmilla openly flirting with Quinn and Becca engaging in nudity and sexual humor. Quinn remains uncomfortable with the forwardness of some of the women.
This document summarizes Calvin's birthday party and Mia's birthday party. It discusses Calvin making friends with his cousins Cindy and Haley. It also talks about Nicola feeling ill and possibly being pregnant again. The document briefly discusses Sean's youth club and one of the boys there, Tom, who is training skills for an act of revenge against someone who killed a family member.
This summary provides an overview of the lives of several families in Simsfield after World War II. Rosalie and Bruce Thorne now have eight children keeping Rosalie busy. Shirley and Walter Gavigan only have one child, Dwight, which Shirley finds difficult. Alice and Nick Bradford are happy with their three children. Everyone remains concerned about the threat of communism and the Soviet Union.
Eileen faces her elder days as Sullivan tries to support their family. Eileen worries for Kate's future and proposes that Corey, her best friend, moves in to help care for Kate after she passes. On her final Tuesday, Eileen loses her mental faculties. Corey moves in as planned and Sullivan works to reassure Kate and keep their family functioning amid this difficult transition.
- James Bradford, patriarch of the Bradford family, has passed away. His wife Cindy is struggling with grief and loneliness without him.
- Steven Bradford has entered politics at the encouragement of his wife Mary and been elected to the state legislature. James had concerns about Mary's influence over Steven.
- New babies continue to join the Bradford family, including Peggy giving birth to Curtis after Denise, and Mary giving birth to Nathan after Gregory. Cindy finds joy in her great-grandsons.
The Ryman family takes a holiday at a campsite to get a change of scenery. However, the accommodations are more rustic than some of the children expected. Marina volunteers to babysit her younger siblings for a few hours so their parents can have some alone time, though she is hesitant about her ability to manage all the kids by herself.
Kate and Corey begin their life together after Kate's parents become senile. Corey had moved in years ago with the intention of marrying Kate. They go on their first date but it does not go well. However, Kate professes her love for Corey, and he feels the same. Not wanting to waste any time apart, Corey proposes and Kate joyfully accepts.
Marina and Nery have just gotten married. Marina is already pregnant with their first child. Opal and Sean are also engaged but struggling financially. Terry is shy but hopes to find a girlfriend someday. Kimmy continues to bully others but is bored at home as everyone grows up. She considers moving out on her own.
1) Terry has moved in with Kimmy and her husband to protect her unborn child from potential abuse or neglect, as Kimmy has shown cruel behavior in the past.
2) Nicola has proposed to Alvin and they plan to marry soon. However, Sean warns Alvin to be cautious of Kimmy if he ever meets her.
3) Marina's children Seth and Sara are growing up. Seth resembles his father but has Marina's black hair, while Sara looks like Marina but has Nery's brown eyes and skin tone.
Corey becomes a vampire without telling his wife Kate in order to stay young as she ages. When Kate finds out, she is furious that Corey deceived her and no longer trusts him. Though Corey's reasons make sense, the secrecy has damaged their relationship. Corey now has to spend eternity trying to regain Kate's faith and trust in him.
The Munster Legacy - Generation 3.6: Back To RealityHurri Katy
- Jackie is getting married soon and is preparing for her wedding day. She is nervous about her dress fitting as she has gained a few pounds.
- Marylin visits Jackie before the wedding to see how she is doing. She tells Jackie that she looks beautiful in her dress.
- The story sets up Jackie's wedding and provides context about the Munster family as the generations continue.
Howard questions Rosalie about her husband Bruce's suspected involvement with Simmunists. Rosalie is shocked by the evidence Howie shows her from the FBI's investigation file. She had no knowledge of Bruce's activities. Howie feels badly for Rosalie but says the investigation is ongoing. Rosalie is left worried about what will happen to Bruce given the treatment of suspected Simmunists.
Steven went off to college while the rest of the Bradford family dealt with various life changes. Shirley had a baby girl named Pauline. Dorothy joined the Peace Corps to work as a nurse abroad. Rosalie convinced Bruce to have another baby to stop rumors that their marriage was failing. Concerns grew about the US involvement in Vietnam. Peggy helped keep her friend Doug out of trouble as political and social tensions continued both at home and abroad for the Bradford family.
This summary provides an overview of the document in 3 sentences:
The document is a collection of memoirs from Rosalie Seiff Thorne describing her experiences during World War 2, including getting married to prevent her husband from being drafted, volunteering with the Red Cross, and her brother Gilbert enlisting in the Marines despite family concerns. Rosalie adjusts to married life, returns home when her husband is deployed, and keeps busy with household and volunteer duties while providing support for her mother and correspondence with her absent husband and brother through letters.
This summary provides the key details from the document in 3 sentences:
Steven Bradford proposed to his girlfriend Mary, though his sisters Peggy and Nettie were skeptical of Mary and didn't trust her intentions. Mary lost her virginity to Steven on the night he proposed in an attempt to cement his loyalty to her. The document concludes with Steven and Mary's wedding day arriving amid the Bradford family celebrating the union, while Peggy and Nettie remained wary of Mary.
Dotty writes a letter to Alice recounting her memories of meeting and marrying Edward Haywood during World War 2. They met while Dotty was in college and fell in love, though Edward was soon deployed overseas. With little time left together, they decided to marry quickly in a small ceremony before he left. Dotty promises to move on with her life if anything happens to Edward, though hopes they will be reunited after the war ends.
Elias Bradford has returned home from university to visit his family on the Bradford farm. He tells his father John that he has decided to pursue a career in theater, which his father disapproves of due to the hours and lack of respectability. Elias is also engaged to Miss Uma Chen but must wait four years to marry her per her late father's wishes, giving Elias time to advance in his chosen profession.
A Buffyverse Bachelor Challenge: Chapter FourRose Fyre
Liam spends time flirting and chatting with each of the remaining girls - Lydia, Cassie, Rissa, and Croissant. Cassie and Rissa are very competitive for Liam's attention. Liam also realizes he will need to tell the final three girls about his daughter Kathy before getting too serious with any of them. The next day will include more hot tub time, kissing each girl, and eliminating one of them from the competition.
Challenge Island - Rotation 6 - Wheeler, Leive, ArgiderLady Lark
This document provides an overview of several Sims families and their activities. It introduces Beau, an extremely unattractive Sim, who goes on dates to find a spouse with good genetics to have one child with. He ends up marrying Dido. It also checks in on the Wheeler family, noting the parents' differences, and children's birthdays. The document describes a "Miserable Sims Challenge" with Tiffany and her unhappy family, which ends with her death.
The document provides an overview of recent events in the Bradford family, including Henrietta's upcoming wedding to Professor Hutchins. At the wedding, Henrietta has doubts but goes through with the marriage. She finds Professor Hutchins to be distant. Meanwhile, Jan Danaher arrives to marry Matthew Bradford, hoping to gain status. Their lavish wedding is a success. Matthew is pleased with how events have unfolded, leaving Henrietta isolated in her new marriage.
Phily writes a letter to her parents describing her trip to France with her friend Meadow Thayer and Meadow's parents. Some key details include:
- They took a train from London to Calais and another train to Paris, staying in a luxurious hotel.
- They visited the Louvre museum and Phily struggled to appreciate some of the artwork, finding it more relatable when sculptures reminded her of things at home.
- They walked around the Eiffel Tower and Phily thought it seemed out of place amongst the historic architecture of Paris.
- In Paris, Phily realized her true romantic feelings for Meadow, but they agreed to keep their relationship discreet due to social
The passage provides context for the Bradford family and introduces several key events. It begins with a family dinner where Carolina shares news from Anne and Diana, who are attending finishing school. Matthew disapproves of Anne's women's suffrage activities. Later, Diana accepts a marriage proposal from Lee Pasang. Anne also gets engaged to Joseph Bear and debates women's rights with her cousin Wendy. The summaries introduce the characters and set up some differing views around women's roles that will likely continue in subsequent chapters.
Challenge island rotation 5 -reeves, mc cullough, wheeler, and leiveLady Lark
This document provides updates on four households. The Reeves family gains a new baby and hosts a successful party. The McCullough family also has a new baby and celebrates birthdays. The Wheelers throw a housewarming party and welcome two new children. Tiffany struggles to care for herself and her baby due to her small home and lack of money.
This summary provides the key details from Chapter 11 of an unnamed story in 3 sentences:
Matthew and his wife Jan welcome their first child while Jan's health is delicate, Anne continues to struggle after giving birth to twins last year, and Lawrence attends a dinner where his cousin and friends try to set him up but he insists he isn't ready for marriage like his mother and cousin want.
1) Mia Ryman married Juan for the second time at a small wedding with friends and family in attendance.
2) Liv had her birthday party where she showed off her newfound love of pink clothes and accessories.
3) Multiple children in the community grew up to the next life stage, including Liv becoming a child.
The document provides an update on Alice and Nick's story. It begins Alice feeling unwell and going to the doctor with her mother-in-law Cindy. At the doctor's office, Cindy smiles knowingly at Alice. When Alice returns home, her husband James asks how the doctor's visit went. Cindy replies vaguely that it went "just fine" without elaborating, leaving James curious about Alice's condition.
Challenge island rotation 5 - jones and hardenLady Lark
This document provides an update on multiple Sims families in a challenging trailer park setting. Key events include:
- Suzie graduates college with scholarships and moves out on her own.
- Hayleigh gets pregnant by her uncle Damion and proposes to new love interest Jerome.
- Bonnie is also pregnant by neighbor Stu while struggling as a PlantSim.
- Brent ages up and moves out with minimal funds to start independent living.
Mia finds herself pregnant after being left at the altar by Juan. She is depressed but begins dating her old friend Zack, believing he will make a better partner. However, her siblings worry she is moving too fast and trying to replace Juan due to rebound feelings rather than genuine love for Zack. They stage an intervention, questioning if Mia truly loves Zack or is just rebounding, but Mia insists her feelings are real.
The Ryman family's house has exploded, leaving them homeless and broke. They set up tents on the property and work to earn money. Mia takes a high-paying job from her brother Calvin to support the family. Over time they are able to expand their living space with the earnings. The children work to stay together as a family despite losing both parents.
Marina and Nery have just gotten married. Marina is already pregnant with their first child. Opal and Sean are also engaged but struggling financially. Terry is shy but hopes to find a girlfriend someday. Kimmy continues to bully others but is bored at home as everyone grows up. She considers moving out on her own.
1) Terry has moved in with Kimmy and her husband to protect her unborn child from potential abuse or neglect, as Kimmy has shown cruel behavior in the past.
2) Nicola has proposed to Alvin and they plan to marry soon. However, Sean warns Alvin to be cautious of Kimmy if he ever meets her.
3) Marina's children Seth and Sara are growing up. Seth resembles his father but has Marina's black hair, while Sara looks like Marina but has Nery's brown eyes and skin tone.
Corey becomes a vampire without telling his wife Kate in order to stay young as she ages. When Kate finds out, she is furious that Corey deceived her and no longer trusts him. Though Corey's reasons make sense, the secrecy has damaged their relationship. Corey now has to spend eternity trying to regain Kate's faith and trust in him.
The Munster Legacy - Generation 3.6: Back To RealityHurri Katy
- Jackie is getting married soon and is preparing for her wedding day. She is nervous about her dress fitting as she has gained a few pounds.
- Marylin visits Jackie before the wedding to see how she is doing. She tells Jackie that she looks beautiful in her dress.
- The story sets up Jackie's wedding and provides context about the Munster family as the generations continue.
Howard questions Rosalie about her husband Bruce's suspected involvement with Simmunists. Rosalie is shocked by the evidence Howie shows her from the FBI's investigation file. She had no knowledge of Bruce's activities. Howie feels badly for Rosalie but says the investigation is ongoing. Rosalie is left worried about what will happen to Bruce given the treatment of suspected Simmunists.
Steven went off to college while the rest of the Bradford family dealt with various life changes. Shirley had a baby girl named Pauline. Dorothy joined the Peace Corps to work as a nurse abroad. Rosalie convinced Bruce to have another baby to stop rumors that their marriage was failing. Concerns grew about the US involvement in Vietnam. Peggy helped keep her friend Doug out of trouble as political and social tensions continued both at home and abroad for the Bradford family.
This summary provides an overview of the document in 3 sentences:
The document is a collection of memoirs from Rosalie Seiff Thorne describing her experiences during World War 2, including getting married to prevent her husband from being drafted, volunteering with the Red Cross, and her brother Gilbert enlisting in the Marines despite family concerns. Rosalie adjusts to married life, returns home when her husband is deployed, and keeps busy with household and volunteer duties while providing support for her mother and correspondence with her absent husband and brother through letters.
This summary provides the key details from the document in 3 sentences:
Steven Bradford proposed to his girlfriend Mary, though his sisters Peggy and Nettie were skeptical of Mary and didn't trust her intentions. Mary lost her virginity to Steven on the night he proposed in an attempt to cement his loyalty to her. The document concludes with Steven and Mary's wedding day arriving amid the Bradford family celebrating the union, while Peggy and Nettie remained wary of Mary.
Dotty writes a letter to Alice recounting her memories of meeting and marrying Edward Haywood during World War 2. They met while Dotty was in college and fell in love, though Edward was soon deployed overseas. With little time left together, they decided to marry quickly in a small ceremony before he left. Dotty promises to move on with her life if anything happens to Edward, though hopes they will be reunited after the war ends.
Elias Bradford has returned home from university to visit his family on the Bradford farm. He tells his father John that he has decided to pursue a career in theater, which his father disapproves of due to the hours and lack of respectability. Elias is also engaged to Miss Uma Chen but must wait four years to marry her per her late father's wishes, giving Elias time to advance in his chosen profession.
A Buffyverse Bachelor Challenge: Chapter FourRose Fyre
Liam spends time flirting and chatting with each of the remaining girls - Lydia, Cassie, Rissa, and Croissant. Cassie and Rissa are very competitive for Liam's attention. Liam also realizes he will need to tell the final three girls about his daughter Kathy before getting too serious with any of them. The next day will include more hot tub time, kissing each girl, and eliminating one of them from the competition.
Challenge Island - Rotation 6 - Wheeler, Leive, ArgiderLady Lark
This document provides an overview of several Sims families and their activities. It introduces Beau, an extremely unattractive Sim, who goes on dates to find a spouse with good genetics to have one child with. He ends up marrying Dido. It also checks in on the Wheeler family, noting the parents' differences, and children's birthdays. The document describes a "Miserable Sims Challenge" with Tiffany and her unhappy family, which ends with her death.
The document provides an overview of recent events in the Bradford family, including Henrietta's upcoming wedding to Professor Hutchins. At the wedding, Henrietta has doubts but goes through with the marriage. She finds Professor Hutchins to be distant. Meanwhile, Jan Danaher arrives to marry Matthew Bradford, hoping to gain status. Their lavish wedding is a success. Matthew is pleased with how events have unfolded, leaving Henrietta isolated in her new marriage.
Phily writes a letter to her parents describing her trip to France with her friend Meadow Thayer and Meadow's parents. Some key details include:
- They took a train from London to Calais and another train to Paris, staying in a luxurious hotel.
- They visited the Louvre museum and Phily struggled to appreciate some of the artwork, finding it more relatable when sculptures reminded her of things at home.
- They walked around the Eiffel Tower and Phily thought it seemed out of place amongst the historic architecture of Paris.
- In Paris, Phily realized her true romantic feelings for Meadow, but they agreed to keep their relationship discreet due to social
The passage provides context for the Bradford family and introduces several key events. It begins with a family dinner where Carolina shares news from Anne and Diana, who are attending finishing school. Matthew disapproves of Anne's women's suffrage activities. Later, Diana accepts a marriage proposal from Lee Pasang. Anne also gets engaged to Joseph Bear and debates women's rights with her cousin Wendy. The summaries introduce the characters and set up some differing views around women's roles that will likely continue in subsequent chapters.
Challenge island rotation 5 -reeves, mc cullough, wheeler, and leiveLady Lark
This document provides updates on four households. The Reeves family gains a new baby and hosts a successful party. The McCullough family also has a new baby and celebrates birthdays. The Wheelers throw a housewarming party and welcome two new children. Tiffany struggles to care for herself and her baby due to her small home and lack of money.
This summary provides the key details from Chapter 11 of an unnamed story in 3 sentences:
Matthew and his wife Jan welcome their first child while Jan's health is delicate, Anne continues to struggle after giving birth to twins last year, and Lawrence attends a dinner where his cousin and friends try to set him up but he insists he isn't ready for marriage like his mother and cousin want.
1) Mia Ryman married Juan for the second time at a small wedding with friends and family in attendance.
2) Liv had her birthday party where she showed off her newfound love of pink clothes and accessories.
3) Multiple children in the community grew up to the next life stage, including Liv becoming a child.
The document provides an update on Alice and Nick's story. It begins Alice feeling unwell and going to the doctor with her mother-in-law Cindy. At the doctor's office, Cindy smiles knowingly at Alice. When Alice returns home, her husband James asks how the doctor's visit went. Cindy replies vaguely that it went "just fine" without elaborating, leaving James curious about Alice's condition.
Challenge island rotation 5 - jones and hardenLady Lark
This document provides an update on multiple Sims families in a challenging trailer park setting. Key events include:
- Suzie graduates college with scholarships and moves out on her own.
- Hayleigh gets pregnant by her uncle Damion and proposes to new love interest Jerome.
- Bonnie is also pregnant by neighbor Stu while struggling as a PlantSim.
- Brent ages up and moves out with minimal funds to start independent living.
Mia finds herself pregnant after being left at the altar by Juan. She is depressed but begins dating her old friend Zack, believing he will make a better partner. However, her siblings worry she is moving too fast and trying to replace Juan due to rebound feelings rather than genuine love for Zack. They stage an intervention, questioning if Mia truly loves Zack or is just rebounding, but Mia insists her feelings are real.
The Ryman family's house has exploded, leaving them homeless and broke. They set up tents on the property and work to earn money. Mia takes a high-paying job from her brother Calvin to support the family. Over time they are able to expand their living space with the earnings. The children work to stay together as a family despite losing both parents.
Calvin had his birthday party but is now a teenager interested in dating. Nicola is pregnant again, this time hoping the baby looks more like her. Alvin builds robots to help with chores but gets absorbed in his projects, ignoring his children. Calvin and some cousins get in trouble after being arrested for breaking curfew.
The document summarizes events in the Ryman family after Marina and Nery's first child became an elder. It describes Nicola giving birth to her sixth child, Gina, but then accidentally burning herself in the kitchen and dying. This was devastating for the family. Mia took on more responsibility in caring for her younger siblings like Allen and Gina. Mia also started dating and showed an interest in parenting. The family continued to experience birthdays and normal childhood activities, but were still coping with the loss of Nicola.
Blake attends his 13th birthday party where he feels older than his friends. He realizes he will soon outgrow the activities they enjoy together. Meanwhile, Brenda has a difficult pregnancy but ensures her children feel loved. Pete takes Blake to a rowdy bar, making Blake uncomfortable, and flirts with other women, concerning Blake about telling Brenda.
Mia wakes up hungover on the floor after a night of heavy drinking in response to her breakup with Zack. Her cousin Calvin finds her and encourages her to go home and spend time with her son Lyle. When she gets home, Mia discovers she is pregnant again. Later, Mia and Lyle adopt a kitten they name Lottie to help Lyle cope with the loss of his father figure. On Lyle's birthday, his cousin Wally bullies and teases him. Allen also moves out as he marries his girlfriend Audrey. Lyle starts school but is reluctant to go at first.
The document is a series of conversations between various characters about events after a high school prom. It discusses parents picking up their children from an after-party in the park, romantic relationships between some of the teens, and drunken behavior by one of the cousins at the party. The characters reference family dynamics and tensions between some of their relatives.
The Bookacy Family Alphabet Adventures, ch. 24katrisims
Cyrus and his family are on vacation on Twikkii Island. While enjoying activities like swimming, games, and exploring an old pirate ship, Cyrus receives disappointing news that his sister Cho has been chosen as the family heir instead of him. However, he seems to take it in stride. The family also visits a remote location recommended by their tour guide, where they meet a mysterious local man living a traditional lifestyle.
Nicola tries to find a boyfriend using a gypsy matchmaker but ends up with a date who is gay. Meanwhile, Marina and Nery commit to marriage despite uncertainties about their living situation. The chapter also shows interactions between various family members as Terry celebrates becoming a teenager and Kimmy remains antagonistic.
Mia was left heartbroken on what was supposed to be her wedding day when her fiancé Zack suddenly changed his mind and left her. She feels unlovable and like there must be something wrong with her that drives people away. She goes to a bar to drink away her sadness. Her brother Calvin stays behind to take care of Mia's son Lyle, hoping Mia will feel better after having some time to think.
A Victorian Legacy - Chapter 8.1 Unending University BeginsDi Meeeee
This summary provides an overview of the key events and characters introduced in the Victorian Legacy document:
[1] The document catches readers up on the two main characters, Charlotta and Anne, who have returned from finishing school. It also introduces William and Henry starting their first year of university.
[2] Conflict arises between William and Henry, as Henry wants to be the heir instead of William. However, William wants to take over as heir from his father.
[3] Both the female and male characters begin meeting new people and starting romantic relationships. William in particular begins courting a woman named Beth.
[4] The story sets up ongoing plotlines around the characters' education,
A Buffyverse Bachelor Challenge: Chapter TwoRose Fyre
Liam continues his time with the remaining bachelor contestants. He spends time getting to know Keira, Lydia, and Rissa better in the hot tub. Later, he has individual conversations with each girl to check-in and give compliments. As elimination time approaches, Kori expresses her hope that she won't be the one sent home. Rissa advises her that begging won't help and her flirting could backfire as it did with Lirael. So far, day two is going better than day one.
This book contains poems and short stories by Ken P Duddle. It is his first published work. He has written on and off for years without much formal education but believes his imagination makes up for any flaws. A portion of proceeds will go to Cancer Research. Ken thanks friends and family for their support over the years. Readers can find more of his work online and leave comments. One poem is about aging and creaky bones. A short story is about two ghost friends chatting in a graveyard about their haunting jobs and apprentices. Another story is about a blind man guided by his dog to land a small plane in an emergency.
1) Olivenite finds a vampire named Catalina while on vacation and she turns him into a vampire as well.
2) Olivenite's sisters all get engaged to their partners.
3) The simselves Shadow, Jo, Ashley, Leo and Fuzzy arrive in Belladonna Cove and will be staying with Ani-Mei and Gabriel.
4) Fuzzy takes a liking to Gabriel despite his insistence that he isn't looking for a relationship.
Celine kissed her sister Chloe's boyfriend Connor, causing drama in their family. Chloe is devastated and refuses to forgive Celine, while their parents ignore Celine to make her feel guilty. Celine spends time alone, regretting her actions and wanting to find a way to make things right again.
Kristen and Gabby are gardening together but start arguing over who gets to plant a seed first. Their mother tries to intervene but the sisters continue fighting. Later, the boy comments that Gabby has a large nose, and she retorts that at least her nose is visible from the side unlike his, which takes up the whole screen when facing sideways.
The three Lightning siblings - Annabeth, Anakin, and A'Tuin - mysteriously collapsed after telling their partners that they knew who the serial killer was. They have since woken up with no memory of what happened. Annabeth and Anakin seem confused but well, while A'Tuin claims to remember but refuses to see Celeste or explain what happened. Their partners are left worried and without answers about what caused the siblings to collapse or why only A'Tuin remembers.
The document provides an update on the Wrongway Legacy family. It begins with Lindsay's death at the hands of the Grim Reaper. This takes an emotional toll on the family, especially Jim. Later, Eli meets a girl named Nancy at the park and they hit it off. Grace decides to kiss Orlando after avoiding intimacy for a long time. However, Elizabeth sabotages her sister Alice's relationship by kissing Alice's boyfriend Jake. The chapter ends with the play that Alice has a lead role in, where her co-stars gossip about Jake cheating on her with Elizabeth.
The document provides an update on the Wrongway Legacy family. It begins with Lindsay's death at the hands of the Grim Reaper. This takes an emotional toll on the family, especially Jim. Later, Eli meets a girl named Nancy at the park and they hit it off. Grace decides to kiss Orlando after avoiding intimacy for a long time. However, Elizabeth sabotages her sister Alice's relationship by kissing Alice's boyfriend Jake. The chapter ends with the play that Alice has a lead role in, where her co-stars gossip about Jake cheating on her with Elizabeth.
- Alex faints at home and is taken to the doctor, who says she has a heart condition and is suffering from stress and exhaustion. She needs to rest and see her regular doctor.
- Brenda's father tells her it is time for her to take over running the family, as her mother can no longer handle the responsibilities. She will have to tell the children about their family obligations.
- Brenda talks to each of her children - Blake, Cam, Connor, and Tara - individually to explain about the deal made long ago to save Blake from kidnappers, and that each generation may face a task. They need to prepare mentally and physically.
This document follows the story of Terry and his family as his children grow up and leave home for university. It describes Terry struggling with loneliness as the house empties out. Two of his children, Tim and Order, have a difficult start at university, living in a tent with few amenities. However, they work hard to earn money and improve their living situation. They make new friends and romantic connections. Back at home, the family celebrates Jan's 50th wedding anniversary, though she later passes away, leaving Terry grieving. His children try to support and distract him in his loss. The story chronicles both the joys and difficulties of families changing as children become independent adults.
The family continues struggling in the apocalypse, with Kimmy insisting the children work constantly to earn elixir of life. Benton succeeds in lifting Military, allowing more freedom of movement. Aisha nears lifting Gamer, but needs to be in a better mood first. Despite the difficult circumstances, Caprice remains kind to others, worrying her mother Kimmy. The story catches up with each family member as they strive to survive and improve their situation through career achievements.
The document is an excerpt from a book describing the challenges of childrearing from the perspective of Kimmy Ryman. Kimmy dislikes the responsibilities of caring for her babies and resents having to change diapers, clean them, and deal with their crying and sleeping issues. She relies heavily on her husband Justus to help with the childcare duties. The twins Benton and Aisha grow up in an environment where their mother provides minimal affection and engagement, but they find love and support from their father and each other.
This chapter summarizes the lives of several siblings after leaving home for university. BD and Penny both find romance - BD begins a relationship with his dormmate Suzanne, while Penny's true love turns out to be Warren, who she marries. Both settle down in an apartment complex owned by BD. Penny wastes no time in getting married, while BD's relationship with Suzanne grows serious as she moves in with him. Meanwhile, Bennie and his partner Stern start their own family, having two daughters named after famous musicians.
This chapter summarizes the lives of Terry and Jan's family as their children grow up. Bennie meets and falls in love with a man named Stern at university. They get married and have a daughter, becoming the first of Terry and Jan's children to start their own family. The chapter touches on each child's interests and aspirations as they become teenagers.
Kimmy finds herself trapped in a frozen hell and tasked by her creator Mzyra with getting a job in the military and rising through the ranks before getting too old to have children. Her living situation is depressing, with a small, barebones house. She begrudgingly socializes with neighbors like the paper boy and brain-dead Marina. Kimmy entertains herself with activities like snowball fights and cleaning obsessively. She takes a job in law enforcement but may get fired for her attitude. Kimmy hopes to find a way to fix up her living situation and end the eternal winter.
Terry Ryman has just gotten married to Jan in a small ceremony. Due to living in an empty lot without walls or roof, Terry had many interactions with the few townies in the new neighborhood prior to Jan's arrival, including unwanted flirting from some female simselves. Jan works to improve their living situation. Though their marriage faces challenges, Terry and Jan remain devoted to each other.
This chapter follows the lives of several families in the Ryman legacy. Nicola gives birth to a daughter, Mia. Calvin continues to bond with his father Alvin. At Marina and Nery's house, their children are growing up. The chapter also shows Tom's difficult situation living with his mother Kimmy and uncle Terry. Terry gets injured but doesn't tell Tom how. Kimmy is frustrated that Tom doesn't express love for her.
The document describes several families celebrating the winter holidays. Alvin spends time with his family including his daughter Nicola and infant granddaughter Mia. The grandparents gift Calvin a llama ride. Terry gives Tom a gift and they bond, though Terry's sister Kimmy plots against them. Marina sets up an adventure playground to entertain her many children. Sean and Opal take their twins to their holiday home in Three Lakes and bond as a family, though they discuss their criminal activities. Terry later wakes up outside, confronted by his sister Kimmy.
This summary provides context about Terry's situation living with the vampire family of Kimmy, Count Christian, and their son Tom. Terry is essentially the babysitter and caretaker for Tom but is treated poorly by Kimmy and Christian. During an argument where Terry snaps at Kimmy, Christian physically assaults Terry in front of Tom. Though angry, Terry knows harming Tom would be wrong. He sings to calm the frightened Tom. Terry worries each milestone for Tom, like birthdays, could provoke more abuse from the vampires.
Sean and Opal reconnect at university after having argued in the past. They realize they have feelings for each other but Kay, Opal's friend, doesn't want to make things awkward so she declines pursuing anything with Sean. Later, Sean and Opal talk things out and reconcile as friends. They discover they have more in common, like a desire for money, than they realized. They begin dating and eventually get engaged before graduating together with high honors.
The family moves into a new house with more space. Nicola is happy with the move while Sean is eager to leave for college to escape family drama, especially from his twin Kimmy. Terry has a scare when getting lost outside alone at night but finds comfort sleeping with his parents. Sean convinces his parents to let him leave for university earlier than planned.
Kimmy agrees to babysit her younger siblings Nicky and Terry while Marina talks to Sean. Terry wants to go look for Bigfoot, which he heard lives nearby. Despite Nicky's skepticism, Kimmy thinks encountering another species could be educational and agrees to take them to search for Bigfoot.
This document provides an overview of life in the Ryman family, focusing on the children. It describes interactions between siblings like Kimmy teasing Sean and insulting Marina. Marina is developing a relationship with her childhood friend Nery. Sean has gotten his first job while Kimmy continues making cheesy chocolates. The family is growing up but still dealing with the challenges of having so many children.
1. Marina brings home many friends from school despite being introverted, including helping a friend named Jane.
2. Kimmy is dedicated to learning to cook from her father and wants to surpass Marina's skills.
3. Carla gives birth to another boy named Terry, adding to the family. Marina enjoys helping care for the new baby.
The Ryman household is large but under-resourced, with five children and little money. Sean tries to start a lemonade stand business to earn riches but fails, upsetting him. A new baby girl is born, to Marina's joy but others' dismay. Tensions rise between the siblings as resources grow scarcer.
Birch proposes to his girlfriend Carla at a restaurant. Though initially surprised by Birch's fancy attire and plans, Carla accepts his marriage proposal. Their relationship had faced obstacles from Carla's admirer Simon, but Birch and Carla remain deeply in love and committed to spending their lives together.
Rodney receives a panicked call from his daughter Liv, who admits to cheating on her husband Winston and that the triplets she had are not Winston's children. Rodney arranges for Juan Harris to pick up Liv and the children. He then calls Seth to discuss the situation. Though initially angry, Seth agrees the children and Liv will be protected. They inform Winston, who crashes his car in a rage. Later, Rodney and Seth confront Briney Lum, revealing he is the father of Liv's triplets.
This document summarizes events in the lives of several families in Simfield over the course of a day. Key events include:
1) Anna and Lydia Ryman start their first day of school and make new friends, including twin girls Victoria and Meg.
2) Liv Jalowitz gives birth to triplets - two boys named Eddie and Trick and a girl named Abigail.
3) Mia Ryman learns that her older brother Calvin has passed away, upsetting her greatly.
4) Huey Ryman has a birthday party where he becomes a teenager and his brother Stern becomes a child.
You may be stressed about revealing your cancer diagnosis to your child or children.
Children love stories and these often provide parents with a means of broaching tricky subjects and so the ‘The Secret Warrior’ book was especially written for CANSA TLC, by creative writer and social worker, Sally Ann Carter.
Find out more:
https://cansa.org.za/resources-to-help-share-a-parent-or-loved-ones-cancer-diagnosis-with-a-child/
ProSocial Behaviour - Applied Social Psychology - Psychology SuperNotesPsychoTech Services
A proprietary approach developed by bringing together the best of learning theories from Psychology, design principles from the world of visualization, and pedagogical methods from over a decade of training experience, that enables you to: Learn better, faster!
Procrastination is a common challenge that many individuals face when it comes to completing tasks and achieving goals. It can hinder productivity and lead to feelings of stress and frustration.
However, with the right strategies and mindset, it is possible to overcome procrastination and increase productivity.
In this article, we will explore the causes of procrastination, how to recognize the signs of procrastination in oneself, and effective strategies for overcoming procrastination and boosting productivity.
As we navigate through the ebbs and flows of life, it is natural to experience moments of low motivation and dwindling passion for our goals.
However, it is important to remember that this is a common hurdle that can be overcome with the right strategies in place.
In this guide, we will explore ways to rekindle the fire within you and stay motivated towards your aspirations.
Understanding of Self - Applied Social Psychology - Psychology SuperNotesPsychoTech Services
A proprietary approach developed by bringing together the best of learning theories from Psychology, design principles from the world of visualization, and pedagogical methods from over a decade of training experience, that enables you to: Learn better, faster!
Aggression - Applied Social Psychology - Psychology SuperNotesPsychoTech Services
A proprietary approach developed by bringing together the best of learning theories from Psychology, design principles from the world of visualization, and pedagogical methods from over a decade of training experience, that enables you to: Learn better, faster!
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Ryman Legacy Chapter 8D - Holiday
1. Joy! The Ryman Legacy Chapter 8D Pleasure! Holiday Sanity! By Mzyra
2. And so it was that the Rymans – father Alvin and children Calvin, Mia, Rick, Allen and Gina – headed off on a wonderful family Summer holiday as if they were normal or something.
3. Their destination the most expensive hotel on the beach island of Twikkii. The family was only coming up to its third generation but with inheritance money and ambitious members as they’d had so far, the family could afford so much better than just one generation prior. Hopefully the outcome of this holiday would be better than the last one the whole family had taken…
4. “Welcome to our hotel, Mr Ryman! Due to the size of your family we’ve had to split you into three rooms, but never fear – there’s one room that can cater for just you and your wife-” Alvin winced at the man’s presumption and considered saying something bitter and harsh back, but the pain and sadness overwhelmed any anger he felt so he just let the comment slide. He’d just leave a smaller tip at the end if he still felt this way, but he’d try to be happy for the children – that would be what Nicola would have wanted.
5. Alvin wasn’t the only one feeling contemplative and wistful; Mia was awed by the beauty of the sea rolling up and down the beach for a few moments, but it quickly lost its effect and she found herself just staring at it, trying to avoid thinking. Maybe a holiday hadn’t been a good idea. Back home there was so much to do with school and friends and younger siblings to deal with, but where there was time to relax there was time to think and the memories weren’t really something she wanted to reflect on too deeply.
6. Luckily Calvin was a very insightful older brother and came to pull her out of her train of thought. After all, they’d barely had time to talk since he’d left for college and they hadn’t travelled to the island together so they had plenty to talk about. C: “Okay, so tell me honestly – have there been any guys coming after you, Mia? Is there anyone I need to deal with for you?” M: “Calvin!” C: “I’m not having some stupid high school boys bothering my little sister!” M: “Even if there were, I can deal with it myself! I don’t need an older brother glaring over my shoulder putting them off! Besides, Rick’s already tried to that enough…”
7. Rick and Allen - best friends as ever - did much as they tended to back home, playing and hanging out together. A: “I heard there’s a pirate ship and everything around here! Do you think Dad’ll let us go check it out?” R: “Well… It depends whether it might be dangerous or whatever I guess…” A: “Oh, but that’ll just make it more fun! If Dad says no can we go and sneak over there? Please?” R: “I guess… I’ll check with Calvin – if he says yes then it’s probably fine.” A: “Yeah and he’s like an adult on his own so if he says yes it totally counts!”
8. Not all of the children were so close, however. C: “Hey Gina – ah, look how big you’ve gotten now! And you have Mum’s nose…” G: “… You look like Dad, but you’re not. Right? Do I actually know you?” C: “I’m Calvin, you know, your eldest brother!” G: “Suuuure, whatever…” C: “You don’t remember me?” G: “I don’t know. Maybe… but maybe I’m remembering Dad, I don’t know.”
9. The holiday destination offered more than just more family time as the girls quickly discovered as Mia started sunbathing (her friends would be so jealous if she came back with a really nice tan!) and Gina tried to build a sandcastle (so she could re-enact a Godzilla movie when she destroyed it again).
10. The sandcastle building didn’t go very well, however, so Gina resorted instead to looking for things buried in the sand. There wasn’t as much buried gold and stuff as she’d hoped, but she did manage to find a bracelet made of shells and was never attacked by a crab, so it was quite a fruitful search in the end.
11. Sunbathing seemed to be a much better idea so Calvin joined his sister lying on the sand and absorbing the Sun. And showing off his new beach towel and abs that he’d been working on. It was true that he didn’t really need to work on his appearance – DJ liked him as he was – but it’d be funny to see Cindy’s reaction if he came back to uni with a tan when it was mid-Winter back there.
12. R: “… You’re only going to get sunburnt. And like skin cancer or something.” M: “Oh come on Rick, that never happens. Well, Cal might get sunburnt with his pale skin, but to get the perfect tan…” C: “Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it bro.” M: “He won’t do that, he’s too self-conscious to change into swim trunks or anything, that’s why he’s being bitter – he’s jealous! Some of us have it and feel like flaunting it.” R: “I’m not jealous, I’m just not stupid!” M: “Ugh, I’ll show you…”
13. M: “Ah, ow! Ah crap…” R: “Ahahahahaha! I told you so!” M: “…It’s not that bad really…” R: “Yeah? How ‘bout you come over here and say that while I poke you?” M: “Oh shut up, Rick!” C: “Calm down, children. Rick stop taunting your big sister, Mia go inside and ask for some skin lotion or whatever, they must be well used to this.” R: “Hehe. You look like a lobster!” M: “Shut up!”
14. The teens may have been having problems and arguments, but the kids were a lot better off as they learnt the hula dance from a local woman. HL: “Well done little lady, you’ve got a good natural rhythm going, just relax and let your hips swing.” A: “What about me?” HL: “Not bad, but you’re too tense – relax, dance like nobody’s watching and you’ll dance a lot better. It’s all about relaxing here, let your troubles melt away…”
15. That was always easier for some more than others, however, and some people were a lot more tourist-y than others. Calvin worked on getting to know about the culture and lifestyle as best he could – he was always up for new suggestions on how to get the most pleasure out of life. Some might have been conscious of how he was talking to an attractive woman when he himself was only in his swim trunks, but Calvin was so comfortable and assured in his feelings for DJ that that never even crossed his mind, and whenever he had a moment free he would be thinking of her back at university without him – but not for too long.
16. While some were letting go of their troubles and relaxing, others couldn’t do so regardless of what they tried. Alvin had barely gone outside at all since the check-in man’s insensitive assumption: he couldn’t get his mind off of Nicola. He knew he should try to go and enjoy himself with the children, but it was surely easier for them, they hadn’t known her like he had, not really. Especially the youngest children – Gina had barely been born when she died! She probably couldn’t even remember her own mother… It was terribly sad, but probably saved her from more sadness than he would have to go on suffering…
17. Mia was trying to keep her spirits up, despite her burns, and engage her little sister – after all, that was part of the reason for coming, to bring the family together and stop Gina being so mean to people, especially Allen. “So Gina, how’s the holiday going for you so far?” G: “Okay I guess. Got a new bracelet, went swimming, learnt to dance better than Allen – the lady said I have really good natural rhythm!” M: “That’s great then! But not everything’s a contest, there’s nothing stopping both of you being good dancers.” G: “Besides Allen’s stomach that sticks out so much that-”
18. M: “Stop being mean to and about your brother! How he looks doesn’t mean anything.” G: “… You look silly. Your skin clashes with your swimming costume.” M: “Yes, yes, I know, okay!” G: “But that’s your fault for trying to look all tanned and stuff and then it backfired-” M: “Yes,I know. But let’s talk about something else, shall we? There must be other stuff you want to talk about…?” G: “Um… Well…” M: “Yes?”
19. G: “What’s kissing like?” M: “Err…” G: “’Cause I see teenagers kissing all the time, but they say we’re not meant to, but I don’t see why not! It’s not like you have to marry anyone you kiss! And do girls have to kiss boys or is that just some silly rule that everybody follows?” M: “Umm… So these are some nice sandwiches, huh?” G: “Oh, do you not want to talk about that? I can’t tell if you’re blushing because you’re bright red all the time now.” M: “Urrrgh…”
20. Luckily for Mia it eventually became time for the kids to go to bed, by which point they were so tired that Gina didn’t even bicker over sharing a room.
21. And with the kids asleep there was time for the older members to do something more fun. The three eldest children had been okay with their father joining them if he’d wanted to, but he said he didn’t feel like it and somebody should probably stay at the hotel in case the kids needed something, so they headed off without him.
22. Soon they found what they were looking for – the spa. Calvin went over to get a massage (from a pretty woman, but he didn’t really notice this, especially nowhere near as much as she noticed him), but Rick was more interested in going on a tour of the island, so paid for a trip from an organiser who was standing around.
23. Mia meanwhile went to go sit in one of the hot pools. At first the hot water against her burning skin was painful, but it gradually became soothing and she got some time to herself. She wouldn’t have thought earlier that she’d have wanted to be alone, but now she wasn’t depressed – the sunburn and teasing siblings had made her irritable. Anger was probably preferable to sadness though and some time alone would fix that.
24. If only she could get some. R: “Looks like somebody’s been spending a bit too much time in the Sun, huh?” M: “No, I was born this way,” she said with what she hoped was biting sarcasm.Sadly the random man didn’t react the way she wanted. R: “Wow, really? It’s like those programmes you see on TV about weird and funky diseases that are totally gross and you just feel lucky that you don’t have them- Hey! Where are you going?”
25. Calvin was having a far more enjoyable time on the massage table. W: “So, you are enjoying your holiday here, yes?” C: “Oh yeah, it’s Winter back where I’m studying so the heat and the Sun is wonderful.” W: “Yes, it’s always beautiful here. Many tourists come here and decide they never want to leave. Especially if they meet a beautiful island woman, they decide to just settle down then and there…” C: “Yeah, I can see why they would…” W: “So have you seen anyone-” C: “Of course, I have a girlfriend back home who’s just the most beautiful, intelligent woman you’d ever meet. Like this one time-”
26. Away from Calvin disappointing and subsequently boring the masseuse half to death, Mia had escaped from the hot pool to the sauna – luckily the annoying blonde man hadn’t followed her, though she guessed that might have looked bad when he was a grown man and she a teenage girl alone together. Ugh. She didn’t know what it was - maybe finally being properly alone, maybe finally having time to think and have things settle in, maybe just everything building up together – but Mia finally felt the emotion overwhelm her and the tears rolled down her face, stinging her burnt cheeks. She could handle it. She would handle it, but for now… she let it all out, safe from being heard or disturbed by her family. She loved them and all, but her pain was private and she wanted it to stay that way.
27. And the next day it was as if nothing had ever happened. Though the masseuse had lied – not every day was beautiful and that day it had chosen to rain. A lot. But who cared about that when there was a genuine pirate ship to explore? And topless men!
28. A: “Oh come on Rick! You know you want to come swimming in the sea with us!” R: “Haha, no… I mean, you can if you want, but it’s not so hot today and with the rain and all… Don’t want to get ill!” A: “But if you’re going to get wet either way why not come swimming? It’s more fun than being rained on! Is it because of what Mia said before? About you being all self-conscience and whatever?” R: “You mean self-conscious and no, I’m just… not in the mood. And I ate recently. You know, you’re meant to leave so long before eating before swimming…” A: “You’re silly. Come join us when you decide to be sensible and have fun!”
29. Alvin continued to have just as much fun as he had the day before, but this time on a bench.
30. The youngest members were the ones who threw themselves most into the fun with Gina doing a good impression of a pirate for a 6 year old girl, even scaring some of the older children who were playing on the ship before them.
31. While Allen would have given Alvin a heart attack with his lack of regard for health and safety, had Alvin been facing the right way at the time. A: “Hey! Do you think I could see all the way home from up here?!” C: “No, that’s thousands of miles away!” A: “And I can’t see that far…?!” C: “No!” A: “…Are you sure?!” C: “Yes! Now get down from there!”
32. Alvin wasn’t much in the mood for conversation if he was honest, but when a local woman came and sat next to him then started a conversation he didn’t want to be rude, so he did as best as he could despite his melancholy mood. W: “You looked sad and lonely. Do you want to talk about anything?” A: “No, no. I was just… thinking. And… I’m okay with being alone for now. No offence or anything.” W: “Oh, no no, I understand. Don’t worry. I’m sure somebody else will be able to help you better than I.” A: “Well no, that’s not what I-” But the woman had walked off before he could even explain, had he wanted to.
33. Back on the ship the fun continued as Rick found he could have fun without stripping off, even if it meant taking pirate orders from Joe from school and repeatedly turning a handle for no understandable reason since the flag was no longer attached.
34. Back on land Alvin wasn’t alone for long… W2: “Hi, I’m Cara and you’re much too handsome to be sat alone looking so sad.” A: “Errr…” W2: “You could have all of that pain and hurt removed if you were to let somebody in. Somebody who could fix you, make it all better… You just have to let them in…” A: “I- Erm- Look- It’s just-” W2: “No no, don’t worry. I think I understand.” A: “No, but you see-!” But the second woman walked away like the first.
35. On the ship somebody made the questionable decision to let Gina get hold of a sword, but luckily she only took it out on the pirate dummy, despite some people’s fears.
36. And once again on the land… Forget being considered rude, Alvin knew what was going on now and he was not going there in any way shape or form! This time he walked away and spent a good amount of time hiding behind the souvenir shack in case the man came after him, thinking he was just playing hard to get…
37. Gina meanwhile made an interesting discovery and was not in the least bit phased by meeting the ghost of a pirate.In fact, she had some criticisms to make. G: “How could you be so stupid to manage to get your ship to crash into such a big island? It must have been a really dark night or you must be blind-!” P: “Well I do only have the one eye, so me depth perception is not the best I’ll admit-” G: “But the ship’s not that great either – it’s made of wood and there are massive holes and stuff in it, no wonder you died!” P: “Most of the holes were made by the rocks when we crashed, it weren’t meant to be like that… But ye be a bright young wench, ‘s a shame ye couldn’t have been in me crew! An eye patch, the right clothes and a nifty hat and ye woulda fit right in!”
38. In fact the ghost pirate liked Gina and her attitude towards authority so much that he taught her (and by extension all her siblings) Ye Olde Pirate Sea Chanty (minus a few rude words that he felt weren’t right for such a young wench, regardless of her attitude).
39. M: “Hey Dad, where have you been all day? You missed the ghost pirate! You’d have loved it!” Alv: “Oh, I was, um… looking at souvenirs and things. I even found a map with a location I’d quite like to try to find if you kids aren’t too tired.” M: “Well if it’s not too far then I’m sure we can all manage, especially since we haven’t really done anything you’ve wanted to do so far. Right Allen?” All: “Is it going to booooring?” M: “Shhh, no! We’ll be fine with it Dad. Seriously.”
40. Some people weren’t doing so fine – Rick tried to chat up one of the souvenir shop assistants, but they quickly found that they had nothing in common and Rick got a little more verbally aggressive than he’d planned when she said she didn’t really like neon yellow for clothing. Being at the scrutiny of his family all day for days in a row was clearly getting to him, but where and when was he ever going to get a girlfriend at this rate?!
41. The kids were happier though and in this respect the holiday was being something of a success – playing pirates and things all day together had finally built a kind of friendship between Gina and Allen (though it was a begrudging one on her part) and so they could even play together with no hurtful teasing or anything (besides a small kick in the side when Gina was a successful cop in cops and robbers). Hopefully this could make it all worth it in the end.
42. But the holiday wasn’t over yet so Alvin lead the family to the spot on the map – a little hut on a hill. The map said something about voodoo, but Alvin was generally curious enough anyway, regardless of what it meant.
43. He might have reconsidered if he could see a future filled with fixing things, but the kids didn’t mind as they didn’t bother to help their father at all – Calvin started practicing the slap dance he’d picked up at uni and Gina helped herself to stuff out of the witch doctor’s fridge. It was lucky the witch doctor had gone out for a nap in a hammock or Alvin would have been very embarrassed at his children’s behaviour. But he guessed it was better than any of them getting electrocuted.
44. Finally Alvin finished fixing everything – without getting electrocuted once – and the witch doctor gave him a present: a voodoo doll. That explained what Alvin could read from the map, but why would he need a voodoo doll? It couldn’t bring people back from the dead or anything… Maybe it could be an heirloom. But that was a problem. A Ryman family heirloom should never really be his, he was a Futa really, he’d only married in. He ought to be passing such things to the children, or one of them anyway. But which one? Calvin had left and didn’t sound like he wanted to move back permanently, Allen and Gina were far too young and Rick… didn’t have the confidence. But Mia…
45. After the kids had been tucked into bed and Calvin and Rick started watching an action movie Alvin asked Mia if he could talk to her alone. He just hoped he was making the right choice, but when he looked at her he was almost certain he was. M: “Hey Dad, what did you want to talk about then?” A: “Well… Your mother, like you, was one of five children and they made the decision that only one of them would stay at home, keep the house and everything. I guess I think that’s kind of a tradition and I thought… Maybe you should be continuing it. If you want to. Calvin doesn’t seem to want to move home after uni and… I’d like the person who stays to be able to remember and live in the way that your mother did, which I’m not sure your younger siblings do.”
46. Mia didn’t know what to say. A: “You do seem to be the peace keeper a lot too, I thought it kind of makes sense…” M: “Well, I’d love to raise my family where I was raised and yeah, I agree about remembering Mum… I don’t think Allen or Gina will really care. Rick might, but more for being denied something than for actually wanting it really. And if Calvin doesn’t want to be… whatever you’d call it-” A: “Like, heir, I guess.” M: “Yeah, I think I’d like to be heir. Or heiress. You know what I mean. Wow.”
47. A: “Well in this case I have some things to give you. Things I think the family should have in future and I don’t have much or any use for now, so you might as well get them as soon as possible.” M: “Huh. Wow. Are you sure I’m kind of ready, Dad?” A: “Don’t worry sweetheart, you don’t have to be ready just yet, your brother and I are here until you are, but it won’t be so long until you’re an adult yourself… I’m proud of you, Mia.” M: “Th- Thanks Dad. I might go out for some air, you know? Just… A lot to take in.” A: “Okay, but don’t be out too late or stray off the paths!”
48. Wow. Head of the Ryman household. It sounded impressive. But Mia couldn’t help but remember that her mother had been too, and look where she was now… But then that was really just a cooking accident and accidents happened, regardless of who you were. There was nothing to suggest anything more serious – her grandparents and aunts and uncles had and were living long and healthy lives, there was no reason to get paranoid. Just to get excited.
49. Miawas suddenly pulled from her train of thought as she passed a giant fountain. She’d heard from one of the locals that if you tossed a coin into the fountain and made a wish it would come true… It was probably just superstition, but it could hardly hurt, right?
50. Taking out the only coin she had on her, Mia held it in her fingers and thought of what she would wish for. Obviously she could wish for world peace and everything, but that never seemed to work out – she could be selfish just this once, right? Before leading a family in an unselfish way for the rest of her life? So she fixed her mind firmly on her own Good luck and happiness. That was manageable, wasn’t it? So she let the coin fall into the fountain. The effect was instantaneous.
51. The previously clear water falling from the statue steamed, turning to what looked like lava. Mia tried to calm her panic, it was probably just some trick set up to impress the tourists, make them believe in the island’s rituals and superstitions… But something, possibly just the sudden heat and smell, was making Mia feel dizzy, like she was going to pass out – just like she’d had once at home… She closed her eyes, trying to stay standing…
52. But behind her eyelids she saw a distant vision of a grave with children crying, but whose it was she couldn’t tell…
53. Suddenly a sharp pain behind her eyes made Mia come back to reality with a jolt. The headache didn’t fade, nor did the memory of the grave. Why did this keep happening to her? What was she supposed to make of that? Was it real? If it was, was it the past? The present elsewhere? The future? If it was the future what was she meant to do about it? If it was the present or the past why was it relevant to her? Maybe they were just like mini-dreams, but they were horrible. Maybe she had some weird kind of brain tumour that was messing with her mind… She could have theorised all night, but she felt certain that she would feel better with some sleep. And she wouldn’t tell the others. Her pain was private. And she was a leader now. She had toshoulder her own burdens.
54. The next – and last – day the family headed to the boardwalk. Rick may not have won a girl over with his conversation, but he figured that girls loved musicians, right? He could just freestyle around for a little while and the girls would be falling over themselves to be with him. It made sense. And even if maybe it didn’t, he might at least get some cash for it.
55. Upstairs Alvin and Calvin took the grown-up option of playing a fiercely matched game of chess. It was true that Alvin had far more practise and skill at chess, but the two seemed to have so much in common sometimes that they could almost predict each others’ moves before they made them. It didn’t really matter who won though; Calvin was happy to spend some time with his Dad for once and with some proper adult conversation rather than sometimes childish student conversation, while Alvin was happy to spend time with his eldest son and especially glad not to have a spare seat for the locals to come and chat him up or be asked about why he looked so sad all the time.
56. Down on the beach Rick had already given up as he, like most of his siblings, had been distracted by the fire dancer. Mia was impressed by how the man managed to do such tricks but thought it must be dangerous and probably not the kind of thing you wanted to show and encourage little kids with. Hopefully Gina wouldn’t get ideas…
57. It wasn’t the kids she really had to worry about though – Rick decided he wanted to be able to show off to girls in a whole new way and therefore paid the man to show him how to fire dance. Luckily the man was smart enough not to actually light the baton, but that didn’t mean Mia didn’t worry about him taking his own eye out by accident. Or looking like a bit of an idiot.
58. Once Rick had the opportunity to fire dance the kids got bored – anything their brother could do was of no special interest to them, so Gina had another attempt at building a sandcastle while Allen sifted through the sand for lost treasure. He should have listened to Gina – he never found any treasure, but he did find a number of crabs instead and they were not happy.
59. When Alvin and Calvin joined them, having finished their match which Alvin inevitably won, they brought far more clothes than they would probably ever manage to wear, but might save embarrassment in future when they had birthdays. Most of the kids chose new outfits straight away, but Rick refused, fervently denying that there was anything wrong with a neon yellow body warmer. Then Alvin lit a bonfire so that the family could spend their last night on holiday together, talking and enjoying each others’ company before Calvin returned to university – Mia soon to join him – and hormones overcame the rest.
60. M: “I bet you anything it’ll be raining when we get back. After all this heat and Sun it’ll be weird going back home to the rubbish weather.” R: “I would have thought you’d be grateful, now we all know just how easily you burn in the Sun – you’ll be lucky to be able to leave the house! Unless you think looking like a tomato is in fashion…” M: “Shut up Rick!” C: “Better for you than for me – back to the snow…. And we never get snow days. We could get snowed in and we’d still get a snarky call from the administrator about why we hadn’t shown up to our lectures!”
61. R: “But you’re going to graduate soon, man. Then you’ll have to get a job! Like a proper job with a desk and a secretary and everything.” C: “I can’t really see myself sat behind a desk. Maybe more in entertainment or something. You know, something fun.” G: “Daddy, he’s insinuating that your job is boring and stupid!” C: “No I’m not! I’m sure Dad finds that stuff fun, but it’s not really something I could do…” M: “Allen looks like he’s about to join the army now…” All: “I don’t think I’d want to have to do drills and stuff though. They’re mean and shout.”
62. Surrounded by his bickering children Alvin couldn’t help but start to genuinely smile as he stared into the fire. Their family wasn’t whole and it would be a lot better if Nicky had still been with them, but they’d get by and one day - maybe in some other life - they’d all be together again and Nicola would be so happy to see that one of her children did wind up looking a bit like her. All their problems would be solved, none of them would matter in Nicola was there, but they could survive for now. They’d do her proud. Their wonderful family. Their wonderful children. It was like the Sun breaking through grey clouds for the first time after a long Winter. He could smile.
63. Despite the difficulties in being stuck with the other members of their family, it was a shame when it came to leaving the island and holiday behind. But they’d take the lessons they’d learnt and relationships they’d developed home with them. It had really, really been worth it in the end. Nobody could ever question that.