Vanderburg Family

Moving-Off Rotation

2008-11-22T20:42:00.000-08:00

Tatiana and I worked out details to move to AV Metro but remain off the rotation. She missed being near her friends, Nicole and Rayne, especially since they're getting older. We're getting an apartment and then we will start on our family. So we're packing up our condo here on Bottom Beach and moving to the city.

Working

2008-10-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

Work is going well, filming has been hetic and Chad and I are discussing having a baby. I know! A baby! Can you believe it! We have also been discussing moving to Apple Valley Metro. Yes, the commute would be longer to Bottom Beach, but I kind of miss the place. Also, that would allow me to open up another resturaunt. I sold the Peacock and it's still making money and bringing a nice little check each month, but it would be nice to manage some more resturaunts. Perhaps Claudia and I could develop a concept together.

Update

2008-07-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

Life in Bottom Beach is busy. Filming for Pahala Shore takes up most of our time and I will start filming for my new cooking series, as will Chad, but his is on bartending and cocktails. I'm excited about the new series and filming, I'll see Claudia again and it's nice to have someone to share cooking ideas with. Our first anniversary is coming up, so we plan on taking a vacation to celebrate. Maybe to the mountains for some skiing.

Selling

2008-04-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

Chad and I have made the desicion to focus more on our careers. That means I will be selling The Peacock and taking in a share of the profits in return for the work Chad and I have put into the establishment. The new owner would not only get a triving resturaunt, but also a pub/sports bar upstairs. I have a few offers, but I need to make a desicion soon.

The Green Tables

2008-03-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

Tatiana is so focused on the Peacock that she's allowing me to manage The Green Tables. I think since the sport lovers of the island are lacking then The Green Tables could be converted into a sports bar. Right now there are card tables, simply adding some pool tables

I've found some items that I'll order for the establishment-in addition to the card tables and pool tables there'll be vending machines-TV screens and eventually a manned bar.

The Peacock

2008-03-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

The Peacock is doing well, we hosted a grand re-opening night to lots of press and it was well recieved. I am excited about the reviews and the new look of the place. The performance area, the decor, everything. My workers are good, the menu is great, signature drinks and dishes keep customers coming back for more. I love it. Also, upstairs is a new gaming hall with a self-service bar area and card tables. Hopefully residents will make use of the facilities.

New Places

2008-03-05T09:02:00.000-08:00

Our new home in Bottom Beach is quite nice. The commute to work is easier and quicker, Tatiana and I are so happy and the view is great. We're thinking about trying to have a baby. Well, we;re not thinking, we're trying to have a baby. I think it's a good time actually.

Alone

2008-02-09T13:08:00.000-08:00

Chad has been working on a local project, a new children's show. It keeps him out late and I often spend my time eating dinner alone and going to bed alone. It gets lonely sometimes and I wish we hired a butler or even a nanny-though we have no children yet. Sigh, I can't wait until his hours get better, though my hours are pretty insane as well. I barely see my husband. Filming at the studio for Pahala Shore, working with The Peacock, modeling for A.Pentrignani and pursuing other projects like my cooking show and publicity for all those projects. Sigh, busy busy busy.

Thinking

2008-02-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

My Pahala Shore Contract has been canceled as many fans already know, I can not say if I will return to the show, but I am enjoying my free time. I spend the time meditating in the garden and talking with A'ron. We're thinking about starting our own band, wouldn't that be wild!

Friends

2008-01-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

Invited Nicole over today, we had so much fun talking and hanging out. I haven't seen her in a while and she mentioned that her daughter was celebrating her child birthday, so I gave her a gift for her daughter, a new doll and dollhouse. I wonder when Chad and I will start having children. Right now things are going well bewteen us, I would like to wait a few months at least, or maybe a year. Thank goodness we have the anti-aging wavier, so we don't have to rush and have children. But that means seeing friends age and die.

Maid

2008-01-01T08:21:00.000-08:00

Must get rid of this maid, she looks at me very strangely and I feel like she is flirting with me. I don't want Tatiana to be upset and to make matters worse I am attracted to the maid as well. Would it be too harsh to fire her?

Work

2007-12-31T13:03:00.000-08:00

Tati's is going well, in fact we've changed the name to The Peacock. It's a better fit for the type of environment we're promoting. I'm still looking for custom uniforms, I might just order shirts for everyone in various sizes (teen, adult and elder) and allow them to wear black pants. Or maybe a color scheme would be well. I don't know.

Rotation

2007-12-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

We're thinking about getting off the rotation in Apple Valley. A lot of other hoods do this for thier celebrities. It would mean time moving slower for us, but still quality time.

Summer Love

2007-12-19T08:23:00.000-08:00

The weather is so warm and things are going very well. Tatiana and I had a free day so we spent the day at home playing outside. We had a water balloon fight and I must admit, my dear wife looked very nice in her swimsuit. Very nice indeed.

Makeover

2007-11-29T07:55:00.001-08:00

Tati's is in need of a dire makeover. We need a total overhaul, the diner isn't conveying my goals and intentions. So I'm complying some images that seem to convey my desire to have Tati's be an sophisicated ethnic resturaunt and lounge. Most of my images are coming from the peacock. I think the peacock really symbolizes everything Tati's is. In fact, Tati's might experience a name change since Tati's doesn't seem very... sophisicated and ethnic.

She's Works so Hard

2007-11-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

Tati works so hard-with Pahala Shore and then Tati's I wish she would step back a bit from the resturaunt, maybe hire a manager, but it's hard enough for her to find employees to wait tables and she often serves customers herself and she still needs a bartender. I hope she doesn't run herself crazy.

New Family Member

2007-10-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

Chad surprised me after taping today. There was a sweet little kitten waiting for me at home, such a cutie. I named him Cotton. He's darling. Once he's bigger and can climb the stairs, we're going to set up one of the rooms as his room. I know I know, spoiled kitty, but with no children to spoil at the moment, Cotton will be getting most of our attention.

Shh...

2007-10-09T08:07:00.000-07:00

I am surprising Tatiana with a small gift to celebrate our marriage. I brought her a kitten, I hope she likes it.

Work is going well, my character is having trouble, so I have to spend extra time channeling Russel during rehearsal.

We're Back

2007-09-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

The honeymoon was nice, very nice. We spent our time in Takesumi Village visiting the sights and eating new dishes and exploring a new culture. We have already decided that we want to go again.

Honeymoon Photo Album

http://flickr.com/photos/9166981@N03/sets/72157602011916145/

Small Update

2007-09-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

I need to spend my $500 Farmer's Market Certificate not to mention decoratin the house-our new home. Did I mention that? Opps!

Chad and I moved to Royal Gala, we brought the lot where the Grey house once stood. They sold us the land-something about family financial troubles, so we built a home from scratch!

I like the style, nice concrete with masonary details on the exterior. The upstairs is kind of empty, we'll use that for guest bedrooms and nurserys-when the time comes. Might purchase a tea table, I loved drinking tea in Takezumi Village so much!

Honeymoon

2007-09-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

I've planned our honeymoon to the smallest detail-the hard part is not letting Tatiana find out those details. Since we both agree that the far east is a wonderful complex culture, I've planned to spend several simdays at Takemizu Village. With this in mind, I scoured the internet for everything I could find out about Taekmizu and what the best spots are.

I've reserved tours for the Bamboo Forest, the Historic Walking Tour and the RiverBoat Tour

I've made reservations at the local resturaunts so we can enjoy Chirashi and Steamed Rice Bowls.

Not to mention a long list of things we have to do before heading home (according to the guides).

Participate in a traditional tea ceremony

Learn Tai Chi and Acupressure massage from the local classes and "wise men"

Visit a Zen garden and the lucky shrine (and make a wish)

Play mahjong and hear the dragon legend that the guide book says so much about.

Wedding Photos

2007-08-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

Lots of changes going on now.

First-my blog is now shared for our family-that means Chad and any children we have will use this blog.

Also I have wedding photos and juicy wedding details:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9166981@N03/sets/72157601613625090/

The Setting: Jacob's Vineyard in Apple Valley. It was reserved for the day and the courtyard held ripen grapes, cherry blossoms and the sweet smell of jasmine. We used lots of rose petals in three different colors along the aisle, guests sat in benchs made from reclaimed wood (in thier former lives they were doors, windows even boats!). The alter was also made of reclaimed wood and an arch draped with grape vines and jasmine and flanked by large wedding bouquets of lillies, daisies, roses and carnations. We were waiting in seperate rooms, Chad with his men and I with my ladies. We spent the last few moments as singles reflecting on our past and exchanging wedding gifts to each other (I recieved a diamond hair broach, he got an engraved leather wallet)

The Attire: The gentlemen (Chad, A'ron and Remington) wore MAXIS tuxedos and suits with golden vests. The bridesmaids (Alexis and Josie) wore custom A.Pentrignani gowns of sage green silk duponi, the matron of honor (Daisy) wore a custom A.Pentrignani gown of chocolate satin with ivory detailing. The bride (me!) wore a custom A.Pentrignani gown of silk accented with crystals. I wore my hair up and the attendants wore thier hair in a braid wrapped around thier head.

The Ceremony: The officant welcomed everyone to the wedding ceremony and we read personlized vows to each other (I perfer to keep those private). Then we were charged as a couple, exchanged rings (reclaimed estate rings that belonged to Chad's grandmother) and kissed each other.

The Reception: After taking group photos we entered the winery to our first dance "Prelude of Love Strings" by Quakey Oaky. Guests then enjoyed a menu that I customized:

Salad:
Baby Greens with Sliced Green Apple, Honeyed Walnuts, Crumbled Bleu Cheese, with Gorgonzola Dressing
Intermezzo:
Cranberry – Vodka
Entrée:
Grilled Veal Chop with Mushroom-Thyme Demi Glace~ OR ~Lobster Tail with Petite Filet Mignon with a Burgundy-Shallot Double Mustard Sauce
Dessert:
Trio of Desserts:Sliced Wedding Cake, Chocolate Marquise with Raspberry Coulis, and Caramel Cheesecake
Wine:
Local Jacob's Vineyard wine from the cellar.

We had a custom rasperry amaretto wedding cake decorated with cherry blossoms, toasts all around and plenty of music for dancing.

The Goodies: Guests left with thick fleece blankets or handbags with cherry blossoms printed on them. Also a donation to "No Red" was given.

Pre/Post-Parties: No photos-well, none that I will share anyway. We had a traditional tea ceremony for guests the night before followed by a long morrocan feast of lamb, stews and other goodies. The next morning guests enjoyed golf or spa sessions (lots of women golfed and plenty of men got facials) before the afternoon ceremony. Afterwards we had a wedding brunch with the guests before they left.

Honeymoon-the hood has decided to hold off on the rotation until after we sign the new deal-so Chad and I are going to go on a honeymoon after then. I can't wait-we're trying to decide what kind of honeymoon we want and we're both pretty settled on visiting the far east.

Married

2007-08-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

I'm married! I am now Tatiana Vanderburg!

Quick note, things are going well-time is moving so slowly, I'll put up photos of the wedding soon.

Work and Wedding

2007-08-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

This Saturday...I'll be married this Saturday!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Did a photo shoot for Tati's, we've brought some ad space from Pahala Shore. I have a bit more filming to do before the wedding and then our honeymoon.

I'm nervous....and so excited!!!!

Life Going On

2007-07-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

I have been chosen to cater meals for the new secondary academy. Each week I develop a menu and deliver the meals to the school for the students. I usually include an entree, salad, and dessert and I try not to have the meals be too exotic, afterall they are just teens. But I do like to give them different meals, such as a Caan Spicy Fruit Salad seasoned with curry and sweet peppers or Samosas.

Chad and I have been praticing for our first dance, nothing too fancy, but it will still be a nice slow dance.

Wedding Update

2007-07-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

Wedding plans are moving along, Chad and I have chosen the cake flavors, it will be a three tier cake with painted cherry blossom details on the fondant. Inside will be coconut creme, kalhua dark chocolate, and kiwi spice rum cake. Yummy!
Daisy is in town and we've been doing a lot of wedding stuff, I mean the ceremony is August 18th, which isn't far away at all. To complicate matters, Chad wants to move into something bigger...we'll see.

Tati's

2007-06-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

Well, my desicion was made for me. The hood council wanted the land that Euphoria sat on so that they could expand the park. I sold the land and paid off that loan, now I'm focused on Tati's. Most of my Euphoria employees transfered to Tati's, but a few declined the request.

Daisy and the family will be coming to Apple Valley for an extended visit, until after the wedding. I'm trying out new dishes for Tati's and planning the menu for the wedding.

O! The invitations were sent out as well. They were cherry blossom pink with a wax seal.

Food Expo

2007-06-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Been busy with the resturaunts and my lecture for the Food Expo, not to mention the fact that I'm judging some of the food contests.

Been considering closing down one of the resturaunts, or selling it. It's too much work to run two places and to try and maintain them. Euphoria doesn't make sense anymore, especially since the hood isn't as urban as it used to be. Maybe I can focus on Tati's...*sigh*...not sure at all.

Health

2007-06-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

I went to the medical centre for a physical and to use the exercise equipment. The manager, Jan, was very nice, very nice indeed. I even brought a few medicines for the medicine cabinet back home. I want to look my best for the wedding. Speaking of wedding, the bridesmaids dresses are almost done. I can't wait to see them in them.

Engagement Photos

2007-06-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

We took our engagement photos-we're trying to narrow down and figure out which ones we like the best. We went to The Foundry and Celebration Park for the photos, and it started raining, but it was fun nevertheless.

http://new.photos.yahoo.com/starrsim/album/576460762403618143

House and Flowers

2007-05-29T09:26:00.001-07:00

It's been a while, so I decided to update with some photos of the house. Ta da! Isn't it beautiful at night? I can't wait until there are children running around in the yard, but that's another story :)
I've been discussing flower options for the wedding. Maybe a wildflower bouquet or a mixed flower bouquet. Chad likes the tulips, but I think they might not be enough for the vineyard, then again, the vineyard may not need a lot of decorating.

Love in the Air

2007-05-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

I helped a local couple with thier own love story. I feel so honored to have been included in it, I made sure that they were having a great time at Euphoria and even prepared thier meal myself. Such a lovely couple, I hope thier love lasts forever.

Vacation

2007-05-23T07:15:00.001-07:00

Filming for Pahala Shore is complete! I've been looking forward to this vacation for a while now. I need to prepare my lecture and Chad's doing the same. I asked Alexis and Josie to be my bridesmaids-thankfully they agreed, so Chad's having A'ron and his brother and more than likely his brother-in-law (Remington) as his attendants. I have Daisy, Alexis and Josie as my attendants.

I received a strange email from a woman stating to be my mother. She was very rude saying that I had abadoned her and that I was living in a perfect fantasy world-wtf! who is this woman! I was so upset! Grrr....

Things and Stuff

2007-05-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

I'm preparing for the local Food Expo. I'm donating two dinners for the raffles (one dinner for two at Euphoria, one dinner for four at Tati's), also they're raffling off a private cooking class and meal preperation from me ^_^ then I'm giving a lecture about the food industry, haven't decided yet. Chad's giving a lecture on bartending. I'm excited.

Had a cooking date with Claudia C from the "adventures of a bride". We were able to use the set kitchens for my cooking show and we had a blast. We tried a bunch of vegetarian dishes like grilled eggplant; tomato & mozarella paneras; and even a mushroom spinach quiche. She's nice, a bit quiet at times which was interesting since her character on AH was loud and...crazy. We talked about "Adventures" and how she's going to use some of her experience from her recent wedding (well, I guess it's not so recent anymore). She even gave me some advice about the wedding, which was nice.

I'm still searching for my wedding dress. Well, not really searching but still working with designers to get the right one. I tried on the first sample from A.Pentragnani, it's nice, very nice actually, but not quite what I want. So it's back to the drawing board. I don't feel quite as bad anymore when they told me that some brides went through six samples before deciding on the right one. SIX custom designed dresses! Yikes!

PS is almost done filming. My final scenes are this week and then we have two months off for the summer. Not sure what I will do. I mean, there's the food expo and then my local cooking show-if the technical issues can be worked out. Also my two resturaunts, but I don't have any projects lined up-aside from a few commercials and ad campaigns. Well, I do have a wedding to plan as well.

until next time

Wedding Plans

2007-04-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

Wedding planning is going well. We have decided on a location, it is actually a very good deal. The hood council had recently approved for a vineyard to be built behind the main street. This vineyard is where we will host the wedding....well, at least the reception, depending on the site plans. It is beautiful. Flowing grapevines, arbors, the scent of fresh flowers and good food and wine. I'm in charge of the reception menu. So far I'm thinking of letting wine be the deciding factor and pairing a good wine with each course. There will be a cocktail hour(s) with good drinks flowing-Chad promised to come up with a signature drink for the wedding. FYI-Chad's a great bartender. Also some yummy appetizers. Then we'll have a large meal/feast with live piano music and of course a great cake.

We're attending pre-marital classes as well. The local pastor is helping us think ahead and plan for our marriage. Things like division of chores, respect and money issues. I advise all engaged couples to take pre-marital classes.

Also, we have our colors: sage green, cherry blossom pink and brown.

I have a meeting with the designers from A.Pentragnani to discuss the looks for my bridesmaids...I suppose I should find some bridesmaids. At least we have the colors to begin the designs-which the company plans on releasing internationally so other brides and maids can dress like my wedding party-as if they would want to do that?!

until next time

Testing

2007-04-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

First, Chad and I declined the offer to manage the orphanage. Actually, it was declined for us. The hood decided that it didn't have the resources nor demand at this time to house an orphanage.

Second, we're back on the PS set working. I have an offer for a televised cooking show. I didn't want to jinx it by mentioning it, but we filmed the pilot episode and it will be aired to a select audience to test thier opinions on the show. Typically indoor cooking show. We're going to do another episode with grilling and I think another one with candy making.

Third, there are new faces on the studio lots. The "Adventures of a Bride" cast has arrived, thier set is next to ours. So some of the PS cast has walked over there to see the newbies :P I met the woman who plays the bride, Claudia. She's nice, we're both interested in cooking and food, so we spent a good deal of time debating if blacken catfish is best if pan-seared, pan-seared and then roasted in the oven, or simply roasted in the oven. It feels good to talk to another sim about such things without them rolling thier eyes or getting glassy eyes :P

Wedding planning is going well, we're thinking about having the wedding in a winery. There would be plenty of rooms for the guests to stay in and we could host some pre-wedding activities such as wine tasting and maybe even some rounds of golf and spa treatments.

Yikes, they're calling my name!

The Return to Work

2007-04-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

LOL-my title sounds like a bad B-movie.

Well, a few more days until the holiday is over. I enjoyed my time off. We spent time fishing, rollar skating and simply relaxing. Daisy and I really bonded over the holidays, I'm glad she's going to be my matron of honor, she's so calm and pratical and logical. She helped me sort through a lot of things going on in my mind that I couldn't talk to Chad about and she's calmed down my nerves about the whole marriage prospect.

Here are some photos of the holiday
http://new.photos.yahoo.com/starrsim/album/576460762397293407

Once we return to work, we also return to Apple Valley and life...as usual. In addition to Pahala Shore, I'll be working with Euphoria and Tati's, and...Chad and I recieved an offer...I'm not sure if we should take it.

Apple Valley wants us to manage the new orphanage. It would mean moving out of our current home and caring for up to six children that await placement in local homes. We would stay on campus with the children and tend to thier needs. It would be good for us, especially since we're not in a rush to have children once we marry, but...I'm not sure about leaving our home. We would get a small salary, which doesn't matter due to our salary, but it seems like, like the children would need a more stable environment. Thankfully Chad will be around more than I will, but...I don't know. We could always commute each day and simply care for the kids at night...it doesn't seem like the right thing for us to do, but then again I LOVE children and an orphanage would be dear to my heart. Even if we don't accept the offer, I'll support the orphanage, however...I wish there was an easy answer.

I'm looking forward to seeing the cast again. Contracts have been delivered and we all know who's gotten the ax, thankfully I didn't ^_^, but a few other cast members did. In addition to seeing the cast, Chad and I need to start wedding planning, all we've done is select colors and a month. We need to chose a date as well, and a venue, and attire, and make a guest list, and find flowers, and....you get the idea.

until next time

Wedding Plans

2007-03-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Well our break has been extended until April 15th, yay! I'm really enjoying it here. I've had plenty of time to think and relax.

Chad and I decided that June was not going to work for our wedding, so we're doing the wedding in August. It works better with my color scheme (sage, brown, white, tan) and gives me more time to plan. Now I need to chose my bridesmaids, we have our honor attendants (his brother and sister) and I guess I need to start dress shopping. Daisy is helping me look at a few things around here. I suppose we should start a guest list...that would work.

I've also decided to open another resturaunt once the repairs are complete. Euphoria will be moving to Apple Valley proper, but will be near the more modern homes in the hood. I want to open Tati's, a more ethnic resturaunt near the town centre. Nicole has been telling me about the plans for the new Apple Valley (as residents have started calling it). They sound exciting. I can't wait to see it.

*yawn* I think I'll go take a nap, make even take a walk.

until next time

News from Home

2007-03-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

Things are fine here, just relaxing and enjoying the break with my future family ^_^

My friend, Nicole emailed me. She and her husband, Lyndon, are going to be moving. Not anywhere far, thank goodness. Apparently Lyndon applied for and recieved the post as the new pastor in Apple Valley. They're going to be moving to the little parish behind the church. Lyndon is going to lead weekly services, special events (weddings, funerals, baptisms) and oversee the spiritual welfare of the hood. The salary sucks if you ask me (only $1000 a simweek, that's about $150 a day), but they have a home and I think a car as well. Apparently they're going to plant a small garden for food and Lyndon might write some articles for the newspaper occasionally.

Nicole is excited for him of course. She also told me that she's leaving the entertainment industry, partly because of the hood council's new career restrictions saying only sims with international assignments may stay in the show business career and partly because she said that she's not interested in the art anymore. She's thinking of becoming a cashier or a waitress, maybe I could hire her. They're still waiting for thier child to come, especially with repairs being so long.

With the repairs and the news of the recreation, I'm thinking of establishing a resturaunt in Apple Valley proper. There isn't a resturaunt in the hood and residents must travel downtown to go out. I don't know if I will keep a modern vibe or start a homey type establishment. Maybe both. I could get a manager at one resturaunt, well actually both, and simply let them run. Euphoria, with it's ecletic menu and modern furnishings, could be established in the modern section of town, and then I could establish a down-home style diner on the main drag with comfort foods like mac-and-cheese and fried chicken and worn in furnishings. I need to talk to my investors about that possibility.

until next time!

Oscar Results and a Break

2007-03-07T08:50:00.000-08:00

Finally a break! The production company has given the cast the rest of the month off, *phew* I am pooped! I've been filming almost 24/7 and things are still not done. We don't know when the repairs will start or how long they will last, so we have this month off and we are scheduled to resume filming in April.

Chad and I are going to visit his sister, Daisy and the rest of his family. I plan on just relaxing and napping and talking. No more Pahala Shore scripts, maybe even a wedding planning break-we have to decide if we want to marry in June or August or September. Yes, I know, we had plans, but now those have changed...maybe.

I plan on taking this break and relaxing to the max. Don't be surprised if you don't hear from me ^_^ All I need to make this better is a good book, wonder when STAR will come out-I'm a sucker for gossip, just to see if they have it right. Sometimes they are incredibly wrong that it's amazing :P

The Oscars were fine, can't say anything until it aires.

until next time

Oscars

2007-02-27T14:09:00.000-08:00

Well, after filming today, Chad and I are headed to Palatial Heights for the Oscars. Wow! I still can't believe it, but we were nominated for Best Actress and Best Actor. Wow! I never thought, wow! I would have thought that Ruth or even Jasmine would have been nominated based on thier experience and storylines, but wow. Cool! Alexis was nominated as well and some other cast members. So the Oscars should be fun. I wonder if anyone is throwing an after-party.

I found my dress and Chad has a suit to co-ordinate for the Oscars, I hope I look red carpet ready. Wow! A year ago I was cleaning toilets, now I'm an Oscar nominated actress. EEEEE!!!!

Wedding plans going ok, think we'll postpone some things until the end of March. We're thinking of switching the date to the fall, but summer should be less busy, well, maybe not, since we're both going to audition for more projects, especially since we've been nominated for Oscars, gotta strike while the iron is hot!

until next time!

Wedding Plans

2007-02-21T09:29:00.000-08:00

We've decided to marry in June...I'm not sure how I feel about being a June bride...it's so...cliche. But Chad really wants to marry then *shrug*

We saw a beautiful resort lodge as a possible site, but we haven't made any desicions yet. Well, besides the month and our honor attendants. Chad's best man is his brother, Jim. My matron of honor is Daisy, Chad's sister.

This is strange...I'm actually getting married :\

Engaged!

2007-02-15T07:14:00.000-08:00

Good, no, Great news! Chad and I are engaged!!!!

Chad proposed on The Gloria Show and wow! I'm still on cloud nine...airy...in love... ^_^

That's why he was behaving strangly the past few simdays. He was he was planning this big surprise proposal and apparently I kept walking in on him discussing the details with the producers and the jewelry store. I'm still in shock-that's why they wanted to film us live!

It was the best Valentine's Day! After the show Chad had arranged for a limo to take us to a very nice resturaunt, where he reserved a room. We ate so much food and champagne! But it was nice to simply dwell in the glow of the engagement before returning to the house and the very full answering machine.

Wow...still giddy ^_^

The Gloria Show

2007-02-13T09:34:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow Chad and I appear on The Gloria Show. I hope I sound ok, my throat has been itchy...I think I may be getting a cold. I'm not as nervous anymore. Chad and I looked over the questions together and even pretended to interview each other. It's one thing playing a character versus being yourself on television.

Things are going well here, AV distributed a patch to help repair some problems with the new deal. Soon it will be spring time here and the new seasons deal will have arrived. Chad promised to take me fishing once it arrived. I can't wait to try out some new recipes and smoothies.

Filming is going well, Chad has been really busy since most of the filming for the past few days have been at his set. I was able to sneak a peek at one scene-it was some sort of formal at Lani's Diner. He's been so busy that we haven't been able to talk on the set. I couldn't talk to Jasmine either since she's been busy filming some scenes with Ruth. Josie and Alexis are not filming as heavily right now, but Alexis is in wardrobe most of the time and then she's on the phone talking to her kids. She told me that she might start bringing them to the set. I guess that's allowed, Josie brought Blossom once when the girl had some sort of holiday from school. We all have studio suites, so I guess as long as the kids are not in the way during filming. I wonder if I would bring my children to the set. Hmmm, I would like to, I would probably alter my studio suite to include space for them and make sure that they have lots of toys.

Since everyone has been so busy, I've been spending time in my suite rehearsing lines for filming. It's quiet and hard not to fall asleep in the room by myself.

until next time

Long Time No Post

2007-02-07T07:22:00.000-08:00

Long time no write. Things have been busy with filming, we're getting the weekend off so Chad and I are driving up to the mountains to spend the weekend at the resort he just filmed some of his scenes at. I can't wait. When we return we're going to appear on The Gloria Show...LIVE!!! Yikes! I am sooo nervous about appearing live. Rehearsing lines is one thing, but to appear as yourself live. I'm not so sure.

Chad still has been acting strange, I don't know what it is...I wonder if he's going to break up with me. I try not to be clingy or even mention my desire for marriage and babies, but maybe I emit the fumes of committment ^_^

STAR came out-it was funny since they assumed that Chad and I were expecting since we went to a baby store. LOL! We were picking out a gift for his sister and her new baby. Wow, I didn't even see a reporter so I'm wondering how they found out that information.

I need to pack for the trip and go to the store. Tomorrow the cast and crew are having a potluck lunch, I am bringing my famous chestnut pork salad. It's yummy. Sometimes I think I was better suited to play Lani since she's a chef, but I like playing Sierra...she's interesting at times, other times she seems like filler for the background. Sierra doesn't have a lot of external issues like children and relationships, but her internal issues might crop up later (even now I see them in some of the storylines and scripts). Her ancestors and lineage are very important to her, she wants to serve them.

I wonder what my lineage is...what my background is. Could I be native american like Sierra? multi-racial? south asian? asian? white? black? I find it hard to tell at times. I look in the mirror and try to find markings of races in me, but to no avail. Everytime I think-I must be X because of my Y, I see a person A with my Y. LOL! Chad brought me a documentary "Power of an Illusion" which was very interesting. It was about race relations and how you can not look at a person's DNA and tell thier race. Thus all those racial physical/personality/mental traits are a bunch of bull-non existent.

Very interesting-genetics and DNA in SimNation. Chad's sister is has fair skin and blond hair-like Chad. Her husband has dark skin and blond hair as well, thier children favor her husband. Rayne has a similar marriage and her children favor her husband. I wonder what my children would look like? Would they have my brown eyes? Or maybe red hair from generations back?

*sigh* I must go, more filming

until next time

Some Photos

2007-01-26T07:31:00.000-08:00

Things have been pretty busy around here with filming. The 2nd episode of the season has aired-yay! But we're hard at work with filming for the rest of the season. The producer is a bit more harsh on us now, especially since The ? Show started filming. She's a perfectionist...I hope that doesn't cause too much stress on the set.

Here's some photos of the new house and Rufus and Mimi (outside of the house; Rufus and Mimi; Chad and I watching a movie in the living room; Mimi running about the living room; my bedroom-nice and airy; Chad's dark bedroom)

until next time

Wedding Fever

2007-01-24T13:12:00.000-08:00

It seems like lots of residents have wedding fever in Apple Valley, especially with A. Pentragnani working on her wedding dress collection. I signed a contract to be a muse for a dress collection. Also a few other women are getting custom dresses for the wedding and wedding party. I was able to visit the studio while some design assistants helped with another woman, very nice. I don't know if the collections will be offered internationally, but the hood has always worn her items.

My mouth hurts, I had a tooth pulled and now I must eat soft foods for the next two weeks. Not very nice, there are only so many ways to make mashed potatoes taste yummy and I'm running out of ways and the local baby food is awful! Gross! Maybe I should create a line of yummy baby food, something toddlers won't spit out.

Chad seems...pensive, I wonder what's going on with him? Hopefully he's just stressed out about filming...hopefully it's not our relationship...o gosh...are we about to break up?

until next time

What Have We Done?!?!?

2007-01-16T09:11:00.000-08:00

O dear. I think we may have been thinking with our hearts and emotions rather than our brain. Chad and I adopted. Yes, we adopted...a golden retriever and a russian blue. Rather Chad adopted the dog, named Rufus, and I adopted the cat, named Mimi. Rufus is a ball of energy, running everywhere, much like Chad. Mimi is a bit standoffish, she perfers her own space and time, a bit like me. It would be great to have some golden retriever puppies for when we have children...ugh...that's a bit jumping ahead of myself, back to the pets. It seemed like a great idea at first, but now...I don't know if we'll be good parents. Already we had to leave them under the care of my friends and neighbors due to Pahala Shore filming, thankfully Chad has some scenes coming up where he will be filming in Apple Valley, so he will be near the house and can check on the little ones. Then I still have Euphoria, which I think I may have to decrease my workload in the establishment and hire a chef and more staff and run it from afar...perhaps even selling it back to the community and being an investor. Right now I'm so busy that I can barely think and now Chad and I are going to appear on "The ? Show" for the first episode. I'm not too sure about what, I think it's regarding celebrity couples or something like that. Chad seems so nervous lately. I walked in the house when he was on the phone and he mumbled something and hung up...very suspicious...I wonder if he has another girlfriend? The gossip magazines DID say he was a player...o dear, I'm about to get my heart broken!

until next time

Blooper Oppers!

2007-01-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

I am putting up som blooper images from Pahala Shore. There's Jasmine and the little toddler that plays Justice (she happens to be picking up her nose, it was too cute), Ruth goofing around during our burger scene. Beck and Alexis during her exercise scene, it was too funny! Then finally the last one is from today's filming of me and an extra during a medical school lab, some prankster put a lighter in the dummy instead of the kidney! It was a big shock, but a good laugh.

Filming is going well, just very busy, so I can't write much!

until next time

I'm Back and Back on the Set

2007-01-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

Hiya! I'm back from my holiday vacation and I feel like I missed out on so much gossip!

Here are some photos of the holidays. There's a few photos of Thanksgiving in Apple Valley, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. http://new.photos.yahoo.com/starrsim/album/576460762381327612

Back on the set and filming for some upcoming episodes. We're filming for episode 23 and there's a huge party scene in it. I get to dress up a little bit, but my hair is the same :( The scene is taking a while longer to film since there are a few extras and so much is going on during the party. It's actually fun to film since we get to eat the extra goodies bewteen the tapings. Later this week, or next week, I'm doing some scenes with Josie, that is always fun. She is so much fun and she teaches me something new each time.

Euphoria is almost ready to open, the ADs are out and we're having a huge premire, I can't wait. I'm hoping that some of the cast shows up, that would be nice. I might have to postpone the grand opening due to some major dental work. I have a series of six appointments for the next few weeks and this morning was my first one. Ugh, I feel like my lip is falling off and I'm drooling everywhere. Thank goodness I don't have many lines today, mostly a lot of milling about and "enjoying the party". We're going to shot my scene later this afternoon, once all the drugs wear off.

Well, I need to go learn so more lines and pop another pain pill.

until next time

Holiday Plans

2006-12-20T11:25:00.000-08:00

Well, Chad and I are headed to visit his family for the holiday season. I'm excited, even though I just saw Daisy over Thanksgiving, I can't wait to see her again. She's pregnant and the entire family is excited with the news! Chad and I brought her a nursery set...needless to say we splurged. I wanted to get her the Tropezienne Nursery from Around the Sims2, but Chad said that it would be a little out of place and besides, it wasn't very unisex. Instead we got her the Authentic Nursery from ATS2. We had it delivered to her house and we're going to take a flight out tomorrow, our original flight for today was canceled :{

I don't know how long we're staying, we have to be back in Apple Valley on Jan 1, in order to start filming again for Pahala Shore on the 2nd. Then there will be a few weeks until Apple Valley signs the pet deal, I'm soooo excited!!! (Though not all residents are excited, many are looking forward to the seasons deal, which I must admit, I am more excited about). I am planning on getting a cat, Chad wants a dog, so we'll probably get one of each.

We have to make a big desicion before then, to move or not to move. The house is a bit crowded and with the high number of graduates moving back to the hood, we could sell the house at a premium and move to the cute little house across the street. *sigh* but I've been hoping for a sparkely diamond ring before making another move, but it doesn't look like it will be coming soon. We haven't discussed marriage yet (been far too busy with PS, Euphoria and Chad's musical endeavors) but...well, we are a serious couple. *sigh* I suppose it will come soon enough, but seeing so many of my friends have babies is a little...disheartening. Not for them, for me...well...I'm a bit envious. I want what they have. Thankfully I get to play with so many children and babies. It's almost like I have children of my own! I wonder how Nicole is doing? She wants us to stop by before we leave, apparently she has big news.

until next time

It's the Holiday Season

2006-12-18T08:43:00.000-08:00

Omigoodness!!! Ok, you ready for this AMAZINNG news? Well, Chad and I went to see Nicole's show this weekend (she did wonderful btw, very accomplished actress) and afterwards we had dessert and took a walk in the park (it was a bit chilly due to the impending cold front and snowstorm). Well, during the walk, we sat down on a bench and stared at the stars and then...Chad confessed that he loved me!!! Can you believe it!!! EEEEEEEEEEEE!!!! I couldn't hardly contain myself. I just sat in awe with my mouth wide open. He had to ask me twice if I was ok. Of course I was ok!!! I just couldn't believe, well, I dared not hope, but...wow :) needless to say, I said it right back :)

I'm trying hard not to jump ahead of myself in this relationship, but I long to get married and have children and get the whole deal. I never had a family and I want that the most. Daisy, Chad's sister, is pregnant with her second child. So exciting, so many of my friends are pregnant. Chad and I are going to visit his family for the holidays, I'll have to try and find matching outfits for us, that would be cute and perhaps have a holiday photo!

I haven't decided what to get Chad yet, but I've narrowed it down a bit (ok, not much):
Brown Sweater Set from Lyran's Sims
Modern Stereo from Around the Sims 2
Some CDs from Around the Sims 2
Bathroom Shaving Kit from Around the Sims 2
TrackSuit from Sims 2 Luxe
Funky Lamp from Around the Sims 2

I have no clue what to get him! I'm going to buy the castmates a Pahala Shore poster. Speaking of Pahala Shore, filming is going well. Fiorenza must be feeling better as she's throwing so much work at us, thank goodness we get the holidays off, next year will be soooo busy!

until next time

Slow Life and Work

2006-12-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

I guess the winter blahs are setting in, the cast has been a bit down. Everyone is a bit sluggish and filming is taking longer than last season. We're on a semi-break actually, some of the cast has left for the holidays and are on a "on-call" status, meaning the studio will call them before filming starts again and they are needed. Other cast members are staying nearby and relaxing near the set.

Alexis and I are going out tonight for dinner while Chad and I are going to the theater to see Nicole's show. There are rumors that the theater will be bulldozed to make way for condos. I hope not, I love the little historical place, unfortunately not many residents go there.

I have no idea what to buy Chad for Christmas, maybe some new electronics-he was eying an MP3 player in the store, perhaps a new sweater. He's still acting weird...very secretive in fact. Maybe he's trying to hide my present without me finding it. Maybe I'm a bit weirded out with things that have been going on in the hood.

Amata is excited, her baby is due soon and her new job presenting a series of hood interviews for the SUN is due to begin airing soon. O! Pahala Shore has posters over at Simmerville's Little Shop of Arts, make sure you get one! There is a cast photo of us on the beach then one of me, Chad and A'ron. I guess since we're in Apple Valley our headshots were submitted and other hoods will have to submit thier own stars.

O! The Euphoria AD is going to aire during the season finale of Pahala Shore! I'm so excited! Daisy, Chad's sister, appears in it!

until next time

Pahala Shore & Work

2006-12-08T12:32:00.000-08:00

Chad has been acting a bit strange, I wonder if it's because he won't be home with his family for this holiday season. I suppose we could go visit his family for the holidays, I'm not sure if Daisy already has plans, but it wouldn't hurt finding out. I hope we will be able to enjoy the break, Pahala Shore has been a bit stressful. Jasmine has started her filming for the new season and I was able to peek at her scripts. Ouch, I'm kind of glad that she's Nailah and I'm Sierra. I don't know if I could accurately play the storyline that she has for the new season. I've been trying to get to know Montana, but she's a private woman. She keeps to herself after filming and we don't have any scenes together actually. My own storyline seems a bit interesting, I hope the audience doesn't get to overwhelmed with the new season. There seems to be so much going on, much of it is heavier material, thankfully there are some lighter things, but not many. I'm a bit tired of Sierra being the supportive character, I want her to be bad...maybe like Erika (Daphne's character). Sierra just seems so stuck in the books and helping out her friends, yes, she has storylines, but they don't seem to be...dramatic enough. This storyline is ok, it's a bit dramatic, but compared to what Alexis and Jasmine have this season, even Hazel Starr's storyline is more dramatic. I suppose I should be thankful to have a job and not complain too much, I mean, I'm sure that Sierra will come into the limelight soon enough. Now that I think of it, it seems like every member of the cast complains a bit about thier roles. Jasmine wishes Nailah wore better clothes (thankfully Sierra's wardrobe for the season is more fun, I love the fabrics and designs and...opps, rambling again) but since Nailah has a conservative background she can't wear what Jasmine would wear offscreen. I know Josie thinks Donna is a bit uptight and matronly, (at least her hairstyle will be changing this season, I keep the same hairdo), Alexis wasn't happy with Missy's size at first and so forth. I guess the writers know what they're doing since there haven't been many complaints about the show.

until next time

Back to Work

2006-12-05T06:15:00.000-08:00

Filming for the newest season of Pahala Shore has started. That's always a good thing especially since pre-production can seem to last for ages! I actually don't have very many scenes to film, since most of mine were filmed already, but I'm supporting a lot of other storylines.

Only two more episodes remain for this season, I stopped by the PS boards and noticed some comments on episode 18, which is good that the audience is making thier opinions known. It was funny what they said about Sierra's first year in medical school. LOL! Well, I won't be telling any secrets regarding her storyline.

Chad and I have been shopping for holiday decorations, we're going to decorate the house like there is no tomorrow. We're getting lighted reindeer, Christmas trees, oversized nutcrackers, candy canes, wreaths, EVERYTHING!!! *giggle*

O, dear. I need to begin my holiday shopping. I haven't the foggiest idea what to get for Chad, we're thinking of taking some holiday photos and putting them up in the living room. I think Chad has outgrown the house, he keeps running into things and bumping his head. I forgot how tall he is! *blush*

ah...that's about all.

until next time

Holiday Times

2006-11-28T12:22:00.000-08:00

The holidays went well. Daisy and the rest of Chad's family (except his brother and his family) came to Apple Valley for Thanksgiving, which was a lot of fun! Daisy and her family dressed in the cutest matching fall outfits, I wish I had access to a camera, that would have a made a lovely family photo. Everyone arrived safetly, though Daisy's hair was messed up during the flight, so we made sure to get her to the salon ASAP. I think the way the stylist did her hair was nice, but then again, I'm not sure what Daisy thought of it. I think I will try and find matching outfits for Chad and I to take photos in. That would be nice. O, so the family was great! We had soooo much food. Turkey, salad, pork chops, salmon, chili, mac & cheese, cakes and pies. Yummy! We danced and talked and of course the talks ran in the direction of love and relationships. Chad's mother even asked him, when is he going to settle down and get married! Yikes! Talk about pressure. I could see Chad's face getting red...I hope he doesn't think I put his mom up to the task of asking him that. I mean, I would LOVE to get engaged and get married, especially with all my friends in the hood being married and having babies.

After pigging out, I took Daisy to see Euphoria, it's not quite finished, we're working out a few kinks with some of the equipment, like the bar and the surrounding counters and bar stools are not to my liking. Daisy loved it, we even did a few shots for the Eurphoria AD campaign and she's going to appear in one of them!

Update on my very pregnant friends. Rayne had her baby this past simday, actually she started going into labor after the Thanksgiving meal with her family. She had a little boy, named Roy. Now she has three children (Ray, Rebecca, Roy). Amata is still very much pregnant and isn't having a good time at all. Nicole and I are going to take her some food since she barely has time to sleep in bewteen running to the bathroom and the kitchen and her poor husband is trying soo hard. Rayne said that she will host a birthday party for Roy's toddler birthday so we all can see the new little one, but until then, phone calls only ^_^

I'm glad that filming with Pahala will start back soon, I miss talking with Jasmine and Alexis and Josie each day. Jasmine's been having a bad time of things lately, I haven't heard much from Alexis nor Josie, but that should change soon.

Brrr....it's getting cold in Apple Valley, I need to buy some sweaters!

until next time

Worried

2006-11-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

I'm worried, Daisy and the rest of Chad's family are supposed to travel to Apple Valley for the holidays, but I haven't recieved word of thier flight arrangements and the Apple Valley airport will be closing tomorrow afternoon, there's even fear that it will close down tonight! I will contact her and hopefully they will be able to fly out soon.

Holiday with the Family...Almost

2006-11-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

Chad and I are trying to make holiday plans for next week. Daisy (Chad's sister) is planning on coming to Apple Valley, I'm not sure if his brother and parents are coming as well. It would be nice if the entire family could come out since that means we can show them the house. If they come, we're going to rent a bunch of beds and put them in the loft, then Daisy and her husband could sleep in my room, I could share the loft with the kids, Chad's parents would have his room, his brother and wife would have the spare bedroom and Chad might have to make the sofa comfortable....mmm, maybe it's best that we find them a hotel to stay at :
I'm a bit restless. It seems like all of my friends are pregnant, just had a baby or trying to have a baby. Daisy and her husband are hoping to add another child to the family, Amata and Rayne are pregnant, Nicole and her husband are trying to have a baby...maybe I should adopt :\ LOL. I'm not in the position to be a mother at this time, Chad and I just started dating seriously and that's an adjustment in and of itself, much less adding a child to the mix.

Chad and I are doing well. We are a bit busy since Pahala Shore is in pre-production, but we still manage to go out every weekend. The shared housing is working out great. We share cooking duties (the cooker doesn't have to clean the kitchen), he does the trash and repairs, I garden and keep the pests at bay. We clean our own areas. He lives downstairs with a bedroom, ensuite bath and extra office to his name. I live upstairs with the same set-up (bedroom, ensuite bath, loft room). We share the common areas: extra bath, living room and kitchen. Here's a link to some photos (thus far, I'm planning on redecorating soon before the holidays)

http://new.photos.yahoo.com/album?c=starrsim&aid=576460762342551132&pid=&wtok=E6LWPZLM47xcfSqJv_aDJg--&ts=1163782349&.src=ph

It took forever to settle on the decor, and I'm still not happy with it. I may just redecorate while Chad is away and let him deal with it :P Alas, that isn't a very nice thing to do to one's roommate, especially when you're dating said roommate. It was cute, this issue of STAR said that we were "Sim Nation's Favourite Couple". I wonder how true that is *giggle*. I'm really glad that I met Chad, he's a great guy, very romantic, but passionate and quiet at times. Sometimes it's hard to know what he's thinking, but once he's finished thinking and comes out of his "man cave" we have no problem sharing our thoughts.

Well, I need to go to another meeting concerning Euphoria, wish me luck :p

until next time

I'm Back

2006-11-14T06:03:00.000-08:00

I'm Back. Camping was...memorable. Chad said that the guidebooks said this was the perfect time to go camping, while it's a bit chilly, but not cold since the bugs wouldn't be so bad. Ha! It rained the first day and being stuck in a tent in the middle of a thunderstorm isn't my idea of fun, then the second day a skunk stole our breakfast, so we had to trek and get more food, then the last day I slipped down the side of a hill and landed in some sort of mud pit. Yuck. Chad had a great time, we haven't laughed so much, I must admit-despite the accidents I had a great time as well.

I'm trying to find more investors for Euphoria so I won't have to have a massive loan. Chad is going to invest in the resturaunt and Fiorenza has agreed to be a short term investor, which means, she will put forth a sum of money, this will have to be repaid to her plus dividends within a certain amount of time, we're still working out her contract. As long as I manage to keep 51% of the shares of Euphoria, things should go well. Chad wants to buy 5%, Fiorenza wants 30%.

Pahala Shore is going well, I am almost done with my fittings and then I will be able to start the rethru's with the cast. Technically our work is shorter for this next season, since we filmed ten episodes for this season, but only eight of them are airing, with the remaining two airing next season. We're doing some additional scenes for those episodes. I don't have any additional filming for that, but Jasmine, Ruth Alexis and Josie have some short scenes to film. I don't think Chad likes Beck (Randy) very much. I'm not sure what happened, but ever since Beck volunteered to teach me the tango, Chad hasn't been very friendly towards him. I'm glad that they don't share too many scenes together, otherwise there might be a fight of some sorts.

until next time

Euphoria!

2006-11-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

Things are going well, Chad has this crazy idea to go camping. Ugh...so we're leaving tomorrow and coming back maybe Friday *cross fingers* I don't know how I will survive without internet! So I'm posting this before I leave. Ugh...camping :
This past simday, Chad and I went to a steakhouse downtown for dinner, it was yummy. We played cards afterwards and won $140! Then we went for a walk in the Lost in Love Hedge Maze where we ran into my friend Nicole. O, it is amazing. My friend Rayne just discovered that she is pregnant and the new neighbor on the street, Amata Forrester-Miller (she appeared in a few episodes of Suburb Sim) is pregnant as well. Their good friend, Cassandra Grey (Starr Grey's adopted daughter) just delivered her second set of twins-two little girls and from what I hear they are adorable. It seems like so many women in the hood are pregnant. Besides those three I saw two other women walking about with swollen bellies. I wonder how I will look pregnant. I have a looooong time until that day arrives, hihi, I only recently recieved my first kiss!

O! The construction of Euphoria has started, it is exciting! I visited and they were installing the swimming pools on the sides. I love it, I'm thinking of adding a bar surrounding the pool, but I don't think there will be room. I can't wait until it is finished! The colors are blues and whites and silvers. It's like floating in the clouds.

until next time!

Party

2006-11-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

I went to a birthday party last night. My neighbor and new friend, Rayne, was hosting the party for her daughter-Rebecca, who was entering into childhood. There was plenty of cake and the kids were so cute. Rebecca looks just like her big brother Ray. Rayne, Nicole and I then sat around watching the children play and we talked about babies naturally. Nicole and her husband Lyndon are discussing starting thier family and Rayne and her husband Ajani are thinking about having another baby. Actually they've taken to retreating to thier room several times a day and have the attitude that if anything happens they are prepared for it.

Rayne's parents were also there, her mother was very excited to meet me. Apparently she's a huge Pahala Shore fan and she kept pressing me for details about upcoming episodes, I didn't tell her much-basically the same thing the magazines are saying. Nicole talked about her new project, she's starring in a play from the new production company, Starrents. It was interesting hearing about the project since the co-founder is Ajani's mother-Alia-and she was there for the party as well. The only grandparent that didn't make it to the party was DaMarco, Alia's ex-husband, since he is in Simborough with his new girlfriend. Another of Rayne's friends was there, Cassandra Grey-the adoptive daughter of Starr Grey and mother of Hazel Starr Grey (she plays Carli on the show). Apparently they work together on the Apple Valley Historical Society and have become fast friends. I'm lucky to be meeting so many new people. I am meeting many more residents than when I stayed downtown. Actually living in Apple Valley proper makes it easier to walk to your neighbor's house for tea or jog in the park.

Pahala Shore sent out a memo, the cast will be meeting next week for a cast meeting. We're going to get the latest scripts so that we can begin learning our lines, meet the new cast member, Montana, discuss the shooting schedule and find out our appointments with the wardrobe and make-up crew. I'm excited to start work again, I missed everyone and can't wait to see them again! We're going to have so much to talk about and thankfully the shooting schedule will be less intense since it is spread over a few months instead of crammed into a few weeks. That makes it harder to pursue other projects, but we do have the summer hiatus for that.

until next time

Costume Party Photos

2006-10-31T05:52:00.000-08:00

I got the photos uploaded of the costume party, I had a blast and everyone was dressed in these really creative outfits. Ruth and David were the only pair that coordinated thier costumes and came as a pirate couple. I wanted to be a superhero, but couldn't find a costume so I settled on being an island woman. Josie's costume was the biggest shocker. I think we're all used to seeing her dressed as Donna which is really conservative, but at the party she came a a showgirl. The cast was in awe! Jasmine came as a bunny, but we expected that from her, but a showgirl outfit from Josie-very unexpected! hihi, I'm glad I didn't dress as one, I was tempted, but changed my mind at the last minute. What else....Chad as a knight in shining armor LOL! Beck was a vampire, A'ron was a gorrilla, Daphne was a 50's teenybopper, Timothy was a scuba diver...I think that's all that came. I'll let the rest of the cast tell you thier tales, but the photos can be found at:

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/starrsim/album?.dir=/accare2

until next time

Moved In

2006-10-30T10:55:00.000-08:00

I haven't updated in a while. I've been super busy with moving into the new house and furniture shopping. Also, last weekend Chad and I threw a costume party for the cast (I'll post pictures soon) and Pahala Shore had a photo shoot.

The photo shoot was ok. We were at the beach in our swimsuits posing for what seemed like hours! Then every few minutes makeup would run into the shot and touch up makeup, the wardrobe would adjust straps and bikini lines and afterwards the crew would sweep the sand free of footprints and the whole process would start over again. Afterwards the cast went back to thier studio suites and Chad and I prepared for the costume party-which was a lot of fun.

Euphoria is coming along. The construction has started for the building and I have the menu planned: Ginger Pork Chops with Wild Rice and Mango Salsa; Dill Poached Salmon with Pecan Asparagus and Buttery Carrots; Curry Wild Turkey with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Organic Cranberries; Lemon Drizzled Layer Cake; Wild Gooseberry Pie; Walnut Chicken Spice Salad; Assorted Gelatins. I am going to the site today to check on the process and then I am placing an ad in the local paper for workers. I'm hoping to use my contacts to get good hires and steady employees. I can't wait until Euphoria opens. I'm planning for the first of the year, maybe it will happen earlier-who knows.

I wonder what the rest of the cast has been up to lately. I should give them a call, I haven't heard from Alexis in a while (I did see her walking about at the party) but I spoke with Josie after the costume party since our new contracts were delivered this weekend. We talked about job security and how she thinks I have a better chance of staying employed since I'm one of the main characters, but she doesn't know about her role. I think she's playing one of the oldest characters on the show-Donna is a professor of medicine, so she's obviously been to medical school and even practiced/continues to practice medicine, so she's not in the same age group as Missy-Roxy-Nailah-Sierra, perhaps she's closer in age to Lani-Erika, but I honestly don't have a clue about thier ages since they're not in university and they both own thier own businesses. It's interesting since on the show Donna becomes a sort of mother figure to Sierra and that's how Josie is to me, well-she's not old enough to be my mother but so far she and Alexis have helped me get adjusted to the business...so perhaps they are "mother" figures.

Until next time

Big Plans

2006-10-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

Needless to say I'm in a good mood, a wonderful mood, I'm floating on cloud nine! In a few short days I will be leaving this stuffy condo and the smog filled air of downtown for the crisp green lawns of Apple Valley proper and the cutest three bedroom home with a white picket fence. I'll be next door to my new friend Rayne and her family (hubby, two children and come this winter a dog) and a few houses down from another good friend, Nicole, and her hubby.

O, I haven't mentioned my new friends at all. Well, Rayne is very nice. I met her while walking in the park. Her son, Ray, came up and starting doing cartwheels for me and she introduced herself. She and her husband, Ajani, own the local toy store, aptly named The Toy Shoppe and they take turns running the shop and taking care of thier children. They have a toddler daughter, Rebecca, as well as Ray who just started school. We started making an habit of having coffee together or I would visit the toy store and bring by lunch for us to share. Chad and I actually went to thier house for dinner a few days ago. Chad was such a good sport about the whole thing. It was a bit chaotic with Ray running about and offering everyone pieces of his cake-slightly burnt, but edible-and Rebecca crawling about askig to be held. Rayne and Ajani kept taking turns in the kitchen cooking dinner-which was pork chops, a bit on the dry side, peas and mashed sweet potatoes (Which were divine, apparently it's a Tiki Island recipe that has been passed down through Ajani's family. I tried to get the recipe, to no avail, but he did confirm that ginger root was mixed with it.) I had a great time, I loved the chaotic nature of the home, it made the visit seem more real. Especially when during the clean up, Ajani and Rayne took turns tucking the children into bed and reading bedtime stories. It made me wonder what my own famiyl would be like, I hope it's as filled with love as thiers.

Ok, on to my other new friend, Nicole. Nicole is from Sokituma [sp?] Island. She and her fiancee, Lyndon, moved there after she graduated. They were to be married, but then moved back to Apple Valley with the Return to Your Roots campaign the hood council has been promoting. As a result, they received a discount on thier new home and settled back in the hood. She's an actress, currently she's the spokesmodel for Dishy Soap and she recently signed to star in a local play produced by the Starrents company. We met while auditioning for the Dishy Soap ad and she's really nice and a bit wild. She reminds me of Jasmine at times, but she's so sweet and kind. She still has a slight accent and she's self concious of it, but I think it's wonderful, like music. Her husband is an attendant at the local gas station, but he wants to get a job with a local business, but no one is hiring at the moment. We usually met to discuss the business and audition opportunities, she has dreams of being a broadway star, I want to star in movies, so we're not in direct competition with each other, but we are slightly. She helps me a lot since she was a drama major in university and has appeared in some local plays on her native island.

I need to send invitiations out to the cast members about the costume party next week, I hope it will be fun. I still need to plan the menu and I have an appointment with the architect to review the final plans for Euphoria. Wish me luck!

Finally a Name

2006-10-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

I miss Chad, which is odd since we're not a... couple. I mean, he kissed me ~_~ it was a wonderful kiss, I couldn't ask for a better first kiss, but we haven't said that we're a couple-and I don't want to assume. We've both said that we enjoy spending time with each other, so at least I know that he's interested in me. This is all so new, I don't want to read more into his actions than what's there, but....*sigh*... I think I'm falling very very hard for him. Maybe I should ask Josie or Alexis what love is like, I feel so giddy around him and breathless, my heart starts beating faster, but wow! o gosh, it's like euphoria...perhaps I should name the resturaunt that-Euphoria. Hmm, Euphoria...I like it...maybe without the capital letter: euphoria. I really like it! LOL! Well, this 'thing' with Chad helped me pick out a name for the resturaunt!

Moving

2006-10-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

Things are going well, Alexis's party was fun. I'm back in Apple Valley now completating some serious issues. I'm thinking about moving. There is a cute house for sale, it has a nice yard, white picket fence and is soooo cute. It's has light purple siding and pale river rocks. Unfortunately, I would need a roommate before I can buy it due to Apple Valley's ownership restrictions.

The problem is that I don't have a roommate, the only single sim I would feel comfortable sharing a house with is Chad and well...I don't know if that is a viable solution, especially since it may be moving too fast in our...relationship/friendship/I don't know what the heck this is! Also, there are several new families moving into the hood-or removing back to the hood and I am concerned that one may see MY house and decide to plop down and settle there. Grrr....That's MY house!

Party!!!

2006-09-28T06:25:00.000-07:00

It is party time!

I want to attend Alexis's party for her twins-I love children and babies, they're so cute! I will call her this afternoon and arrange a flight to Eden. I wonder who else will be attending the party. I don't know what to expect since it's a party for her infants' birthday, but maybe there will be some adult activities. Maybe some dancing and just talking with new people.

Speaking of parties and adult activities, Chad and I are planning a costume party for the cast, I hope everyone will have some amazing costumes! We haven't decided on a date yet, but I'm in charge of the menu-naturally-and Chad's in charge of taste testing the dishes ^_^ I am trying to find a superhero costume for the party, but then I found a show girl costume, so I haven't decided which one yet. I wonder what the others will wear.

O! I think I may have found a possible location for my resturaunt, *cross fingers*. Now I need to think of a name for my place. Something classy, hip and modern that evokes images of celebrities and good food and the 'it' resturaunt of the moment. Hmmm, that's a hard task :
until next time!

It's a Wonderful Morning

2006-09-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Things are going well for me. This weekend was rather busy, I did shooting for the Tiki Joe's Ad Campaign and Chad and I stayed in and watched movies. I rented the entire WhoDunIt? miniseries and some older Suburb Sim episodes. The movie night was great...until I fell asleep ^_^

One minute I was watching Carrie breathe her last and the next minute Chad was tucking me into my bed. I felt so bad, but I was so tired. Thankfully he was a gentleman, carrying me up the stairs to the bedroom isn't an easy task and he could have easily left me on the couch. I owe him big time, I still have to cook him a dinner, so maybe that will be a goodwill offering for falling asleep during our movie night.

Today seems like a slow day, thankfully the Tiki Joe's campaign is complete and I can focus on my resturaunt. We're scouting various locations downtown for the space and doing 'research' by visiting established venues to make sure my concept is unique.

*yawn* I think I'll take a walk.

Thinking Thoughts

2006-09-21T06:05:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about my future lately. This whole resturaunt business has had me thinking about my dream resturaunt, I want a swanky place with VIP lounges, classy bar and good food. I'm still working with the architect to sketch out the details, but hopefully things will become complete soon and I'll be able to start looking for property.

This has caused me to think about what kind of family I would like (actually Chad asked and now I've been thinking of it in more details). I dream of a nice sized house with a white picket fence and green grass and trees. I would be very happy and have a wonderful husband and two-three beautiful playful children. I would have a dog and a cat, the kids would love each other and play together and my family would be filled with love. I guess I want the typically fairy tale :] I also have decided that I would like to continue acting and manage the resturaunt (once it comes into existance) so that it can be passed down through the family. Now I have to just find that house and that husband :o)

Well, I have a lot of work to do today

until next time

Busy Weekend

2006-09-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend was busy, so busy that I am now nursing a cup of tea thanlfully that I have finally washed the last dish.

Friday night was Fiorenza's premire party. The entire cast assembled at her house and watched Pahala Shore. It was strange seeing myself on television, but it was good to see the completed version. I mean, you have no idea how the scene will turn out and how it links with the other characters until you see it in a seemless storyline.

After the episode we all walked over to my house where the night before Chad helped me set up the tables and lights in the garden. I baked plenty of food-or so I thought-with a menu of: raspberry-cherry cheesecake, trio-berry pie, almond ginger layer cake, lemon custard layer cake, baked alaskan, and assorted fruit crepes. Apparently we have some serious sugar addicts in the cast, for as soon as I spread the word that the treats were low-cal, low-fat, the cast seemed to form a neverending line for the sweets and let's just say that things quickly disappeared. There was plenty of champagne, thank goodness Chad volunteered for that task. The party had me sooo nervous! I never threw a party before, but Jasmine helped with the planning and Josie helped me pick out my dress and Chad calmed my fears about the dishes. In the end it seemed like everyone enjoyed themselves and I went to bed stuffed and tired around 3 am.

Dessert Reception Photos
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/starrsim/album?.dir=/33bbre2

Saturday I woke up late and was greeted to buzzing flies, apparently I didn't clear away ALL the dishes. So I spent the greater half of the morning washing dishes and nursing a cup of coffee in an attempt to wake up. Finally I decided to do some yoga, take a looooong bubble bath and a nap before my date that night. Butterflies were in my stomach, this was Chad and I's second date and we were going to be very fancy. Smokey Jane's Jazz Cafe was hosting a few famous pianists for a concert. Fiorenza gave me her VIP tickets (she had to go to Italy on business) and Chad and I were going to have dinner before the concert. I wore a long blue gown with lace at the collar and Chad looked...dashing in his suit.*blush*

We arrived at Smokey Jane's and waited to be seated at our (well, Fiorenza's) table. A lot of familar faces were there, Alexis showed up (I didn't know she was coming) as well as A'ron and his daughter. Finally we were seated, the wait wasn't long at all to be honest...about five seconds. The table was on the ground floor, near the stage so we were able to have the best view of the concert. Also, it was close to the bar and kitchen so food was delivered very quickly. We had a nice meal, filet mignon with buttery potatoes and crisp salad accompanied with delicious apricot sparkling wine. It was amazing! The concert was very well also. It wasn't a typical concert of sit and watch the pianist play, but patrons were encouraged to dance along with the tunes. Chad and I danced several times....he smelled good...*blush*. Afterwards, we were able to meet the pianist and get her autograph. The only sore point was this strange old lady kepy following us about.

Smokey Jane's Jazz Cafe Photos
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/starrsim/album?.dir=/55c3re2

I had a wonderful time this weekend, it was busy, but I loved every minute of it...now for another nap!

Confusion and Cheesecake

2006-09-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a rather eventful day. I went for a walk downtown-don't worry, it was during the day-and decided to stop for a cup of tea and a scone, while waiting for my order I noticed that the latest STAR had been released and decided to buy a copy. It was a very interesting article, I didn't know that so much was going on with other celebrities. Well, Chad and I were featured in the gossip section and there was a reference to him being "The Player". I was shocked, it was all so confusing. I mean, I really like Chad, I do and it's pretty obvious-since I'm such a bad actress when it comes to hiding my feelings and I thought that we were getting along great, but now...I wonder if he's just using me...toying with me until something better comes along. It's not even fair to say that he's toying with me as we've only been on one date and haven't even kissed, so perhaps I'm overreacting and he sees me as just a friend *sigh* It was so confusing that I just sat in the cafe and cried (thankfully not noisely).

I tried to discreetly ask Chad about the magazine's claims and he said that he simply flirted and dated a lot while in college and on the set of Arrendale Heights, which doesn't seem that bad to me. It's not as if he were in a committed relationship and cheated. However sometimes I feel like this naive little girl interested in this sauve 'Don Juan'-I feel that there is no way for me to win (ha! as if this were a game!) honestly, I'm confused. I don't want to come on too strong with the whole relationship aspect and yet, I do want him to know that I'm not interested in being one of his playthings. oooo...he better not think I'm a plaything!

Times like this make me long for a mother, or at least a sister to give me some advice. Someone who knows more than I do about these relationship and romance things. I mean...I think that I may love him, then at other times I'm so scared...I want to hide under a rug. Thank goodness I'm not playing opposite of him in the show, that would be awful! I'd be even more confused than now!

I've been pretty busy today, finalizing the desserts and calling rental places to rent some tables and chairs. I want to have the garden decorated in an enchanted fairyland, with lights in the trees, glowing tables of food, plenty of room for conversations and champagne. Hihi, it seems as if I am planning my wedding, but it is my first party. It's going to be cocktail attire, Josie is helping me shop for a dress this afternoon, normally I would ask Alexis, but she's at home with her twins, besides she might be busy explaining the photo that appeared in STAR.

until next time

New Job

2006-09-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

I'm quite pleased and content at the moment. It is raining here and I am curled up with a good cup of tea and a warm blanket, thankful for my many blessings.

Chad and I had our very first date. It was nice, fun...ok AMAZING! *giggle* We went to Tiki Joe's Bowling and Grille, we didn't match the venue exactly, but we were close with our green and browns-I even wore a palm print tube top. We had a nice time, first we had dinner-we were straving! We both ordered the coconut pecan shrimp, but the first time the meal came, the waitress dropped the meal on me! It was awful! But Chad took some of the food and dumped it in his lap as well so I wouldn't be the only one with a food stained outfit. *blush* That was sooo nice of him, I honestly believe that he was a dashing prince in a past life. We we finally got our food, it was delicious and worth the wait (I'm not sure if my clothing liked the food). We then bowled a few games, we actually wagered a bet for the last game and said loser gives winner a back rub. That game was very close, at one point we kept mkaing strikes one after the other, until finally we were TIED! So we both got back rubs and let me tell you, Chad's hands are AMAZING *blush* Anyhoo...we then ended the date with some games of pool, Chad totally kicked my butt, but I did win one game-though I think he let me win. It was a wonderful date, I only wished that...well...he had kissed me, you know? *sigh* But he didn't... what he did do was...wow...I swoooned...when we were leaving, he kissed my hand and looked into my eyes and said "Until we meet again, Princess Tatiana." Seriously, he said that! He said that I remind him of a princess sometimes, so I'm not complaining since he makes quite a dashing prince *blush* Afterwards he sent me a very sweet note saying that he had a great time and I couldn't help but daydream about our future together, I stopped though...only 15 minutes *blush* oh, what a glorious 15 minutes!

Photos: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/starrsim/album?.dir=1865re2

I hope we go out again, things have been busy for both of us since then, I got a new job-more about that later-and I'm sure he's keeping busy. I just signed a contract to do an AD campaign for Tiki Joe's, can you believe it-the same place I went for my first date, they've signed me to appear in thier ADs! I'm excited, we're going to begin the process this week, so that's nice that I have something to do while we're on hiatus from filming.

My very first party is Friday!!! The show premires and after watching it, I'm having a dessert reception in the garden. I've already started cooking the multiple low-cal, low-fat treats and now I have to simply pick out an outfit and decorate the garden with lights and the food tables. I wonder if Chad will help me? Hmmm...ok, enough daydreaming!

until next time

Time is a' passing

2006-09-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

Things have been going slowly, I filmed my final scenes for the season yesterday and am at home now relaxing and drinking tea, I've seem to have got a small cold. Jasmine was sent home yesterday, she had a pretty tramatic near death experience during filming the season finale. She insisted on finishing the scene, but Fiorenza sent her home as soon as possible. I hope she's resting now, we almost lost her. Filming for the cast is pretty much done for the season, I think Erika has a few scenes to film with Blake and Jack before the crew calls the final "It's a Wrap!"

I'm hosting a dessert party on Sept 15th. Fiorenza is inviting the entire cast and crew to her house to view the premire of Pahala Shore and then afterwards I'm going to host them at my house with homemade desserts (low-cal, low-fat, the cast is watching thier weight) and some dancing. I have some time until then to prepare for the party and Jasmine and Alexis are helping as well.

O...^_^...some good news...some big new...Chad and I are going out downtown...on a date...^_^ I'm so estatic I can barely hold it in! We haven't decided when, but we've decided on a place. Perhaps...*sigh* calm down, Tatiana, mustn't get ahead of yourself ^_^. But it's soooo hard, he's so...dreamy ^_^ almost like a dashing knight...if only I were his princess...alas, that's enough daydreams for today...I need to work on my business plan, yep you heard me...business plan.

I'm meeting with a financial advisor to go over some things and set up a plan on how to start my dream of owning a resturaunt. My first assignment is to gather some financial records and plot out a "dream list" of my resturaunt. *Yawn* I'll work on it later, my bed is calling my name.

goodbie!

I'm Back!

2006-09-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

I'm back!

I had a wonderful time at the family reunion. Everyone was so nice and friendly and Chad said that they loved me. It was interesting, nothing like the orphanage, there wasn't the fear that if you became friends then they would leave soon. Instead it was open and inviting. I hate so many hot dogs and hamburgers! It was amazing that I was able to get on the plane coming back home. I loved interacting with the kids there and even answering some questions about Pahala Shore and when the first episode would aire. Unfortunately, things ended far too soon and I am back at home now.

Here are some photos from the Family Reunion: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/starrsim/album?.dir=ae75re2

The trip was a last minute trip, Chad had invited me to his family reunion, but we didn't know when it was this year, then he found out it was this past weekend and I only had one day to pack and catch a flight and not a moment too soon as Apple Valley was shutting down external communications this past weekend as well. Thankfully I was able to get a flight, with some minor trouble, but not much, and arrive there *phew*

Well, I have the new script, so I must study now.

I'm Off!

2006-08-30T15:21:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I'm packing to leave to go to Chad's family reunion! I've never been to one before, but I'm soooo excited! I hope I don't look like an idoit! Wish me luck! More details to come when I come back! EEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!! So excited!!!!

'59 Diner & The Foundry Leaves Woman Scared and Nervous

2006-08-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend was rather eventful, Chad and I went downtown. I had so much fun. First he picked me up, which was sweet of him and we were wearing similar colors (red, black and white). So we laughed about that for a while. I wonder if Alexis knew what he was wearing as she and Daphne helped me pick out the clothes for our outing.

We went to the '59 Diner and ate thier famous fried chicken. It was amazing. The matri'd thought that we were on our anniversary and brought over two glasses of sparkling champagne. Chad played along, but I was beet red. I think they realized thier mistake later when another couple the Vanderbean's walked in excited about thier anniversary.

We saw Josie there, she simply waved but didn't stop by the table. She had on a suit, so I wonder if she had an important meeting to go to. Later, during a dessert of vanilla creme layer cake, we saw David. I didn't recognize the woman he was with, but they didn't stay long. I wonder if Josie and David were spying on us. Hihi. It was funny (funny weird, not funny haha)seeing all the women swoon as Chad walked by...it made me feel special that I was with him...well not WITH with him, but hanging out with him...though I wouldn't mind being WITH with him...but...anyhoo... after dinner, we took some photos in the photo booth, I think Chad would win any goofy face contest. I got to keep the photos and they are now on display in my living room. Before leaving, we played a few tunes on the jukebox and danced to the oldies.

After that we went to The Foundry, a new club that is pretty...funky, but cool. We danced all night to this great DJ and we had drinks at the bar. Chad is a really talented dancer and he has so much energy! During the entire date, opps, I mean outing, (but I wouldn't mind it being a date) all I wanted to do was kiss him. But I couldn't do that and he didn't try, so needless to say, I didn't do the whole first kiss thing. *sigh* But boy did I want to. I actually wanted to do more than just a little kiss, I wanted the whole enchilada, kissing in the booth, kissing on the couch, everything. *blush* Anyhoo...

Upstairs there were some karaoke rooms and Chad convinced me to sing with him. So we rented a room and had a blast! It was the funniest thing you ever saw, Chad really got into the song and started dancing, I did a few moves too. Then we slow danced and I felt so warm and safe in his arms and well...I think I may have fallen in love.

More photos: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/starrsim/album?.dir=f576re2

Which is exactly why I'm scared. I mean, we-Chad and I-haven't been on a date, yet I think I'm in love. Am I being foolish? Sometimes when we talk I feel like I'm the most special woman in the world. I think that we may be able to have a relationship. He invited me to his family reunion, you wouldn't do that unless you liked someone right? Then, I'm a little scared. Chad's a romantic and I'm more family oriented, can such a thing work? Also, there are rumors about his reputation, but no one will tell me any details-which makes me more scared. I feel like I'm moving too fast and not only am I moving fast, but that I'm moving fast alone. I don't know how Chad feels about me. Am I just a friend? A flirt partner? Something more? I'm scared to ask since...well, technically our talks and outings have been nothing but friendly. Jasmine says I should be more bold, but how?

Life Changes

2006-08-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

*DJ (*not real name, I don't want to blab thier news to the world when they haven't done so) is engaged...wow...it all seems so fast, but apparently they've been dating for a while. It made me think about the future-I try not to since...well, I'm not dating anyone and I don't want to get my hopes up. However, I do want a family, the whole white picket fence, husband and 2.5 children and a dog-well, not exactly, but I do want children and a husband-I don't know how many ... when you're trying not to hope about such things, you tend not to dream about them in detail.

What I need to think about in detail is what I'm going to wear Friday! Chad and I are going downtown to hang out...it's not a date...well, he didn't say it was a date...I wouldn't mind it being a date ^_^ but when you're going downtown to eat with a popular guy you can't assume anything or hope for too much. Anyhoo! We're going to eat at a diner-The '59 Diner-and try thier famous fried chicken and vanilla cream cake. Then we're going dancing at this new club called The Foundry. I'm so excited, I can't wait! I shouldn't be this excited, but it's getting harder and harder to contain myself. Everytime I see a post from him I get all giddy and start dancing. Jasmine says that he must like me, but...I don't want to assume and get hurt...Josie says I should tell him how I feel, but...gosh-that's hard! It's not very easy to go to a guy and say 'by the way, I like you, will you be my boyfriend-yes or no?' lol! Things were a lot simpler when no one paid attention to me. Back to the issue at hand, I need something to wear, something casual, but dressy, something sleek, but laid back. Guys have it so easy-pants+clean shirt=outfit, I have to think pants or skirt or shorts? What about a dress? Long or short sleeve shirt or tube top? Jewelry? Purse? Makeup? Ayiyiyi!!! I better call Alexis, she'll help me, she always seems to wear the right things.

It's funny, I live downtown, but I haven't truly explored it yet. I don't have a car yet and things have been busy on the set, but now we have a holiday while they edit the episodes. I've already visited the park near the condo-I think it's called North Central. There was a free concert and bonfire. I had fun and even had a cup of mocha cinnamon espresso with whipped cream topping. It was yummy. Then as the sun set, the bonfire started and I enjoyed telling stories and roasting marshmallows with the others who had come out for the event, finally the band started. They were decent players, mostly a college rock type sound. Afterwards I went home and chatted online with Jasmine before falling asleep.

Took advantage of my day off today, I went to a free lecture at the university. A famous resturaunter was speaking and I got some really good notes. I want to start a resturaunt, but am saving some money first. Hihi, maybe a 'Russel' (like from Pahala Shore) will come into my life and fund the resturaunt, lol if Russel looks as good as the one on TV-I wouldn't care what 'Russel' did, as long as he came into my life!

It's a Wonderful Life...or is it a Dream?

2006-08-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

Lalalala!!! I'm so happy! *giggle* Things are going rather well, we have another break from the set-this time for editing and making sure the actors have a real life. I'm not sure when we're going to be called back to start filming again, but I'll be busy in the meantime. Chad and Timothy and David are helping me move my furniture into my new place-the old condo was condemned and we were forced to relocated-something about bugs on the lot. So I have to arrange furniture and redecorate, thankfully the city is reimbursing us the cost of relocating and redecorating. To be honest, I like this condo better, it's cosier and smaller. I still have three levels: the bottom level is a carport, kitchen and living area with a door leading into the front garden (which is bare like the other condo, but at least it has grass and a small tree), the second level is the entry level and living area with a bathroom and balcony overlooking the street, the third level has two bedrooms and two bathrooms and another balcony overlooking the street. I think I will try to see what can be done about having a balcony overlooking the park instead of the street. I'm not a huge fan of looking into our neighbor's yard when I relax on the balcony. There isn't a community pool, so I'll probably buy a hot tub.

I'm glad to have made so many friends from the set, Josie said that filming for soap operas is a lot different than movies. On soap opera sets the cast becomes like a family since they spend so much time together, but on movies sometimes you don't get to know your other cast members very well. I remember when I first arrived to the set, I was so confused. First, Chad and the actor that plays Randy look so much alike! Fiorenza did a good job with casting them as brothers, it's amazing! Then of course there were all these amazing celebrities and I didn't know their names at all *blush* I felt bad, I think I called Alexis 'Anna' and Josie 'Jenny', then of course there were some cast members who were not so nice and that wasn't that hard for me to get used to since I've experienced my share of not so nice sims :

I invited Chad over for dinner...um...just for fun...uh...anyhoo. Before he arrived I spent about two hours getting ready, I mean, how does one dress when having guests over for dinner? I couldn't call Jasmine since she was busy filming her other project, but I was able to get in contact with Daphne and she calmed me down. Apparently she and Alexis were together and so they came over. I wore the brand new shirt that Alexis helped me pick out and some new jeans and they did my hair and make-up. I'm glad they came over, it calmed me down a bit and allowed me to relax. Gosh, I'm sure I'll be a complete mess once I host my housewarming party. So a few minutes before Chad was scheduled to arrive, things wentbut then my stove wasn't working so we had to eat pizza. I was so embarrassed. I had a delicious menu in mind, yummy cajun spice roast turkey with garlic potatoes and buttery chives beans. But instead we had lukewarm pepperoni pizza at the bar in the kitchen. Thankfully he was a good sport about it, laughing and joing about how my pizza tastes very similar to PizzaDeliverZ's pizza. He brought over some great music, I plan on buying the CD once I find out the name of the artist, and we danced on the balcony and he even taught me how to slow dance. I was so nervous, I thought I would step on his toes or something, but he was so sweet about it.

I don't know why I was so nervous, I mean...I do know...ugh...I never ever felt this way about a guy before, well I have, but I didn't do anything about it, I mean...that was high school and he would have never have been with one of the 'rejected' girls. The only reason I invited Chad over was because Jasmine encouraged me to, I probably would have been content to simply leave things as they were and admire him from afar, but...Josie says that life is full of risks so I am trying to put myself out there more...but it's scary...especially when you've been hurt in the past. *sigh* I'm not saying 'woe is me', I've been blessed, there were other homes that were much much worse so I was lucky to be in such a good orphanage, even now I have a nice job with a nice paycheck, a nice home and I'm making good friends. Sometimes I wake up at night, expecting everything to be a dream and for everything to disappear in front of my eyes.

Crushing

2006-08-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

Things are going well. I finished the living area remodeling. I am very proud of my work. The living area has a modern japanese style like the rest of the house. It has a traditional screen wallpaper, but one wall I put up this pretty sage green wallpaper to highlight the painting I found at a local merchant. Josie helped me pick it out and she picked up some things for her house as well. I got my furniture delivered from Around the Sims 2 and even created a custom rug. The living area is a combination of white, sage green, and pale birch wood. Very relaxing, I love coming in the door and sitting down, gazing at the view of the park and having a cup of herbal green tea. I think I may be in the 'zen' zone :]

Ok...I must admit, I have a crush. I feel awful since he's obviously the favorite amoung the women in the cast and more than likely will be the favorite amoung the women in the audience. He's cute, dashing, great personality, everything. *sigh* To take my mind off of things I called up the local matchmaker and set up a blind date (you can see her in this photo as well as my condo in the background). Needless to say, it didn't go too well. First, the guy was an elder, second he was the local matri'de at Lulu Lounge who has a reputation for hitting on all the waitresses, third...it was boring. He wasn't exciting, I mean, we talked about food for a little while, but then he...well, he assumed that I wanted to go home with him, ewww!!! I don't know if I'll do the blind date thing again. Perhaps I should take up some hobby...like knitting.

Speaking of hobbies, I talked to the Josie about my love for cooking and she recommened that I find a good accountant and think about starting my own resturaunt. She said that it would be good to have my hand in other things besides acting since sometimes the jobs are few and far bewteen. She then told me how she has a few other projects, including simoleans from a lipstick named after her. I hope that I can become a famous star one day. But I guess I don't know what the future holds. I know that I want to get married one day and then I want children one day, but I have no clue when that one day is. It's nice listening to the older sims on the set talk about thier lives, Josie showed the cast new photos of her daughter-Blossom. She's child now with bright blond hair and sassy attitude it seems-perhaps she's destined to be a star. Ruth talks about her baby, Alexis gushes over her twin babies and David seems to be the proudest papa on the set, he and his wife just welcomed thier third child and you can tell that his children are his joy. It's funny watching Jasmine during these talks-obviously it bores her, I think she rather be discussing the newest club. Hmmm...I wonder why she doesn't open her own club, she obviously knows how to party. I asked her for help in throwing my first party. Once my condo is completed, I want to have a party for the cast and other sims I've met

I talked to Chad on the boards, I'm waiting for him or Jasmine to post me back. Jasmine is in the midst of filming her second project, some type of reality show with her best friend from home. My cold is better, thanks for the wishes, o! I must go pick up the new magazine, Star. One of our writers is helping to write the magazine, thankfully I probably won't be in it, I'm not famous enough yet :]

Vacation WooHoo!!!

2006-08-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

I finished the filming for my final scene. The production company has the cast filming in five episode blocks on the shooting schedule and I completed my final scene so now I have a nice vacation until filming for the next block of five episodes starts.

I'm going to start the renovation and decoration of my condo. I can't wait. I already picked out some furniture and wallpapers and floor tiles, so the contractor is going to come and install everything. I want to personally do the garden which is simply a pile of dirt and concrete. My inspiration for my home is modern japanese, so I suppose the garden will be very similar as well. I'm looking for a sleek wooden bench, not those english garden benches, but a japanese style bench. If you see one, let me know.

Things are quiet around the set-Jasmine flew back to Simmington to film her other project, Josie and Roxy are both done with filming, in fact most of the cast is done with filming until the next block of episodes begins. I posted a note for Chad on the SUN Boards but I'm not sure if he'll respond. Sometimes I think he likes me as I catch him staring at me, but I could be wrong, sometimes when you have a crush you get delusional and every little gesture becomes a way for your crush to express his love. A lot of the cast seems to think that he's cute and since he's single and very...captivating...well, I wouldn't have a chance...but it's nice to dream.

Since I live next door to Fiorenza it's interesting seeing her visitors come and go, I must admit that sometimes I'm so curious I wish I had binoculars to spy on her-but I'm sure it's not that important. But it is intriguing especially since there are rumors that her family is the head of the mafia, perhaps I should try NOT to see anything.

Finally A Home

2006-08-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

I signed the papers on my first home. I'm excited and nervous, but mostly excited. My contract gives me §15,000 towards the purchase of a residential lot. I chose a nice sky blue condo downtown. I share the property with non other than Fiorenza, the producer of Pahala Shore, so that should be interesting. We share the common outdoor areas-including the pool, barbeque and bare lawn that I plan on renovating into a grand garden. My condo has three levels, the basement level includes an one car garage and basement kitchen/dining area and a half bath. The first level, where the main entrance is located has the living area, full bath and balcony overlooking the pool and downtown views. The third level includes three bedrooms and one full bath with access to the roof.

I have some renovation plans in store for the condo. First of all, I'm converting one of the "bedrooms" into a full bathroom, then I have to decorate-which I'm leaning towards a modern japanese influence, then the balcony rails are so high and thick (for privacy the real estate agent said) that you can't see into the pool or the surrounding downtown area. And the views here are really nice. On one side of the condo is a beautiful park which I'm just dying to visit and take a walk. On the other side is a famous resturaunt that is uber expensive, but I'll visit one day-maybe if I win some money during our casino outing.

I have a cold, so I took some medicine and am taking it easy. Drinking lots of juice and sitting down and napping as much as possible. Egh, the cast members keep getting sick, I think the producer and director will eventually send us all home for a few days to make sure the virus doesn't keep bouncing around. I suppose I could browse some internet stores for some furniture. It feels weird to spend so much money, but...I'm trying to enjoy things while I can, but not get into trouble...

Until next time

Reflections

2006-08-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

Things are going well here. Did a bit of filming and it was ok. I was nervous when I did my scenes with Josie-she is so professional and she makes everything seem so easy. I can tell you that Josie plays my teacher in the series. I wish I knew the future of my characther, but the producer will only give me the latest script or two. So the most I know is what will happen two-three episodes in advance. It is amazing since the producer knows exactly where Sierra is headed and the director coaches us on what we have in store.

Jasmine and I have been hanging out, her suite is next to mine, so we sometimes eat dinner together and talk-when she's not on the phone with her boyfriend. I wonder if they will get married. Besides Jasmine, only Daphne, Timothy and Chad are without immediate families. Alexis has her twins and her boyfriend, Josie has her daughter, Ruth and David both have families back home.

I'm enjoying my break and drinking some tea and reflecting on the day. It was a busy one-Starr Grey visited the set to bring her granddaughter in for her scenes. She's a nice woman, all the cast seemed to be in awe of her. Apparently she is this famous movie star actress. Unfortunately, when you don't have TV or simoleans for movies, you're not aware of these things. Well Josie offered me some videos with Starr's work and after viewing them I see why the cast was in awe-she's amazing. She really commands the screen, maybe I will be as good as her.

I think I will take up meditation, Daphne said she will teach me-that should be nice. Right now Alexis and I work out together-she says she has some baby weight left-but I don't see it. In the mornings we alternate with running on the treadmill, yoga or video exercises. The studio has a personal trainer at our disposal, so that's nice, but hard. All that personal attention means you can't slack off.

Well, I'm off-talk to you later

Hello All!

2006-08-08T06:28:00.000-07:00

This is my first post on my first computer! I finally brought something with my cheque from Pahala Shore. This computer was on sale, so I got a really good deal. Now I need to find an apartment-I don't know how much longer they will let me stay in the studio suite. It's very comfortable-but then again, anything is comfortable when you've been used to sleeping on couches and under bridges.

I'm still in shock about the recent turn of events in my life. One day I'm cleaning toilets struggling to feed myself, the next day I'm acting on the set of a soap-as one of the central characters-go figure! I'm extremely thankful though, just being able to have this job-it makes a woman hope for the future...but anyhoo.

Working on the set is fun, I want to do my best so I've been studying my lines and doing research at the library concerning native american issues and trying to understand Sierra's personality and background. So far I know that she was an only child raised by her grandfather on a reservation. I wonder what it's like to have a grandfather-or a family for that matter. I lived in an orphanage all my life until I became an adult and had to leave "the system". I'm the second youngest on the set, Jasmine is a little younger than me as she just had her adult birthday. Most of the other actors have children and families-but they don't look old at all. Alexis said that she is going to take me shopping for clothes once filming starts-I just hope they're not too expensive, I'm not used to paying a lot of simoleans for clothes-heck, I'm not used to paying simoleans for clothes, my wardrobe consisted of one outfit for school and another outfit for elsewhere. Sometimes if we were lucky at the orphanage we would get donations from some kid's rich parents who felt bad for us and there would be these nice belts and purses and sometimes some jewelry. I wonder how the other girls are doing.

Well, I should prepare for the cast photo shoot, we're going to the beach to take photos in our swimsuits-the set location is beautiful, Bottom Beach is very close to Apple Valley-it's actually considered a part of Apple Valley, but it's still a short ferry ride away. I will have to get a map directions are sometimes confusing here. I know that Apple Valley is west of SimCity and Bottom Beach is south of Apple Valley and downtown is to the north of Apple Valley and Muscon Desert lies to the east of Bottom Beach...I think.

Until next time