tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63824146903519496412024-03-12T17:39:27.862-07:00Hi Mum, It's SammyPiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.comBlogger172120tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-62947044007071591832016-11-23T00:17:00.000-08:002016-11-23T00:22:06.518-08:00At the movies - with Sam GrantThis is Sim Movie Review and I'm your host, Rick Shawn.<br />
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Tonight I have three actors who have just finished filming what should be this year's holiday blockbuster, The Well Beyond Time. I'd like to welcome Marta Tomasi, Jack Harkness and Sam Grant to the studio.<br />
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Marta: I would like to say for all three of us that it's a great pleasure to be here.<br />
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Rick: Not a problem. Now, this movie is set in?<br />
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Marta: We filmed most of it in Egypt.<br />
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Marta: My character is Professor Rhonda Masket, and my speciality is ancient languages including Egyptian hieroglyphs. The story starts with me finding a parchment of ancient hieroglyphs tucked in the back of an old book that I just purchased.<br />
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Rick: That seems convenient.<br />
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Marta [laughs]: We’ll get back to that. I manage to interpret the parchment and learn that there is a hidden treasure within the Sphinx. So I’m determined to find the treasure and retrieve it to put on display in a museum somewhere. I travel to Egypt and set up in the main tourist camp area.<br />
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Sam: Now what Rhonda doesn’t know is that my character, Gabriel Spinner, hide that parchment in a book that he knows she has been wanting to buy. He does this because he can’t find anyone else who could read it. [Evil chuckle] Spinner is not about to donate the treasure to a museum, he wants that treasure for his own.<br />
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Rick: So, Sam, you are playing the villain again?<br />
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Sam: Yes, that's right.<br />
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Rick: This is the third movie where you are playing the villain. Aren’t you tired of it yet?<br />
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Sam: Actually, it’s the fourth time I’ve been the baddy. But it’s better to be a villain than to be unemployed.<br />
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Marta: It’s that laugh of yours, Sam. Sends chills down my spine even when I know you’re not in character.<br />
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Sam: I must say is that it’s a good thing black suits me. Every director seems determined to make the villain wear black.<br />
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Marta: What else should a villain wear?<br />
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Sam: Canary yellow? Shocking pink? [laughs] I don't know, but when you see someone dressed in black you should run the other direction.<br />
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Rick: Well, if Marta is our hero and Sam is the villain, that must make Jack the love interest.<br />
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Jack: Sort of. My character is Jonathan Hawk. He does become the love interest because…<br />
well, here’s the clip.<br />
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[Clip starts]<br />
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Gabriel: <i>So Jonathan, I need you to spy on the good Professor Rhonda for me. You'll be staying in the tent next to hers.</i><br />
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Jonathan: <i>How would you expect me to spy on her?</i><br />
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Gabriel: <i>My personal recommendation would be as her lover. Your looks do have their advantages.</i><br />
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Jonathan: <i>I don't see why you don't do it yourself.</i><br />
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Gabriel: <i>I fear I have a certain - reputation - amongst the academic community.</i><br />
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Jonathan: <i>You mean this isn't your first time?</i><br />
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Gabriel: <i>Correct. Now can I count on you? For an appropriate fee, of course.</i><br />
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Jonathan: <i>Well, I guess that I can.</i><br />
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[clip ends]<br />
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Jack: But it doesn’t take long for my character to start falling for her wit, charm and determination.<br />
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Marta: It helps that I can read some of the warning signs left in the Sphinx. After I’ve saved his hide a few times, he is a little more reluctant to be a spy.<br />
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Rick: My understanding is the on screen romance isn’t the only one.<br />
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Marta: That’s true. Jack and I started dating part way through the filming.<br />
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Sam: They’ve been appalling. During the love scenes, the director would yell cut and they would just keep smooching. Plus we had to announce ourselves whenever we went around a corner, just in case they happened to be there.<br />
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Rick: Not a fan of true love, Sam?<br />
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Sam: True love is fine as long as you don’t force everyone else to put up with it. Coming around a corner to find the two of them slobbering on each other was getting old.<br />
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Marta: Sam, you are just an old grouch. No wonder you always play the villain.<br />
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Rick: So, are there wedding bells in the near future for you, Marta? Jack?<br />
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Marta: We haven't made any plans yet.<br />
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Jack: But we haven't ruled marriage out either. We both need a bit of time away from the set and the paparazzi before we can decide.<br />
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Rick: All right then. One last question for you. I've heard that this movie was cursed. Is that true?<br />
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Sam: Well, we did have an unusual number of equipment breakdowns. Almost every day, something didn't work right. Cameras, lights, vehicles and even our phones would just stop working for awhile, and then start working again for no particular reason.<br />
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Marta: At least you were out of the worst part, Sam. While you were stalking around outside muttering your plans, things down in the bowels of the set were dangerous. Sometimes the rigs we had set up for traps in the Sphinx would go off when they weren't supposed to. One of the stunt people had to be hospitalised after getting second degree burns from a fire trap.<br />
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Rick: Was that the worst injury? I'd heard that there were multiple deaths.<br />
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Jack: Thankfully, no one died. The burns were the worst injury anyone suffered on set. But the equipment failures made every day a pain in the backside. We had to do a lot more takes than usual and you had to worry whenever you went near any of the rigs.<br />
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Marta: But we are sure that the movie will be fun and exciting to watch.<br />
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Rick: Well, what we've seen of the movie looks fantastic. I would recommend that everyone go to see it in the 3D version while they can. I'm sure I'll see you all again when the sequel comes out. Thank you, Marta, Jack and Sam for coming.<br />
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Marta: Thank you, Rick. I've had a great time and I'm sure everyone will love the movie.<br />
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Rick: Special thanks to our audience. Next week, I'll be reviewing The Fantamic Sims. Be sure to watch.<br />
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<br />PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-62970587467466781982015-08-10T20:07:00.001-07:002015-08-10T20:07:15.079-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 9)Author's note: I realise that there have been no posts in this blog for a year. Surprise! And sorry about the long wait.<br />
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That night was probably the least restful sleep that I'd had in years. Snuggling up to someone in a clown get up was just too freaky, and I discovered that I had a hard time sleeping when I couldn't snuggle.<br />
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The sun was barely peeping over the horizon when I gave up and got out of bed. It was early than I wanted to be up, but if you can't sleep, what's the point of being in the bed?<br />
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"Hey, little guy," I said as I pulled out the holosprite. "I hope you are feeling happy today."<br />
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The light coming from the disk went from dull to very bright. I really have to remember to talk to it more regularly. Jericho had pulled out his disk as well.<br />
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We needed to experiment a bit. See if the two holosprites could keep other company and stay happier. They really didn't like being off a lot of the time. <br />
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We grabbed some food from the buffet area and sat down to eat. The outdoor dining area was another place that could use some serious work. Tall tropical trees to help keep it shady. Sand and varnish the wood floors and railing. Or maybe replace, making them look better was going to take a lot of work.<br />
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We were half way through eating breakfast when Anemone found us. I don't know who was more surprised by the encounter. Jericho and I thought the kids were all safely home. Anemone didn't know her dad was a clown for a day.<br />
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"What are you doing here?" I asked.<br />
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"Monica was being extra bossy this morning. Goby refused to tell her to be nicer. Plus I found Dad's flyer for the resort and read that the buffet included pancakes. All that we were going to have at home was boring cereal," Anemone told me.<br />
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I sighed. So much for just a nice quiet weekend with my husband. Where one child was, more were bound to turn up. Or the rest of the children had better turn up. Monica and Goby were supposed to be watching over their younger siblings. The fact that Anemone was here and not home meant they weren't earning any money for the weekend.<br />
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"So did you tell anyone where you were going?" I asked.<br />
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She shrugged. "Goby started arguing with Monica about washing the dishes. They didn't notice me at all. So I left." She looked at Jer. "Are you performing for a party? I didn't know you were a clown, Dad."<br />
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"I don't perform as a clown," he replied. "It's just a temporary thing. Eat your breakfast. We'll have to find out if your sister or brother have realised that you're gone."<br />
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We finished our breakfast. "Anemone, stay in sight," Jer said. "You will be in a lot of trouble if you wander away from us too." He waited for her to nod before we left the table.<br />
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"I'm sorry, Jer. Looks like our weekend away from home is already over." I pulled him in for a hug.<br />
<br />
"It's all right, Sam. I don't think any of this went to plan." He sighed. "This stupid clown thing for one. I had never even heard of such a curse before."<br />
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Jericho talking about it reminded me of how much his tragic clown outfit upset me. I broke down with Jer sadly looking on.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry, it's still just really freaky." I looked up again. "I'm glad that the kids won't have to see you in this outfit for too long."<br />
<br />
"Speaking of the kids, it's time to ring home. See if either of the teens noticed that they've lost a child," replied Jericho.<br />
<br />
"You're right, love. I'll do it." I pulled out my cell phone and moved away from Jer. It was the first time that I needed a bit of distance between us.<br />
<br />
It took eight rings for Monica to pick up her phone. I was just beginning to think it was going to voice mail when she finally answered. "Hey Pop."<br />
<br />
"Just checking in. How's everything at the house?"<br />
<br />
Monica was using her 'bright and cheery' voice. "Everything is fine, Pop. Nothing to worry about."<br />
<br />
Strike one, that was a lie. I decided to push just a little to see if she was going to keep lying. "So, what are Seahorse and Anemone doing now? Playing inside or outside?"<br />
<br />
For one moment, I thought my phone had broken. Then I realised that Monica was sobbing. "Hey, hey. Monica, it's all right." All thoughts of scolding her flew from my head. She was properly worried about her missing sister.<br />
<br />
"It's not all right, Pop. We've looked everywhere and we can't find Anemone." Monica stopped and I heard her sniff a few times. "Goby and I have checked every room, in and under everything nearly big enough for her to hide. We can't find her."<br />
<br />
"Monica, you and Goby can calm down. Anemone wandered over here to the resort. She's with us." I waited for a response. "Monica? Did you hear me?"<br />
<br />
"Oh Pop, I'm so relieved. Just let me tell Goby."<br />
<br />
"Wait, Monica. Just go ahead and grab your siblings and come over to the resort. Since half the family is here already, you might as well come too. Bring swim things."<br />
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It wasn't long before the rest of our children arrived. Not surprising, you can actually see the roof of our house when you are looking the right direction.<br />
<br />
"Yes, score. We get money and Sunday off," said Goby.<br />
<br />
I shook my head at Goby. "Goby, you don't get any money."<br />
<br />
"But Pop, we did look after the kids all day yesterday," he complained.<br />
<br />
"You lost one today," I said. "If you want to earn money for looking after your siblings, you can't let one of them wander off."<br />
<br />
"But she came here. Anemone was perfectly safe."<br />
<br />
"Be thankful for that. If she hadn't come here and found us, the two of you would be grounded for a month," I replied using my best tough cop voice. "She could have wandered anywhere on the island or have gone for a long swim. How would you have found her then?"<br />
<br />
"Pop, you worry too much. Everything was fine. Are you sure we can't get half payment?" Goby pleaded.<br />
<br />
"No half payment. Next time, do the job right." I didn't tell Goby that swimming away was one of the things I worried about with the Strider children. Monica was never going to run away from home by swimming. But the rest of them certainly could. There was a lot of ocean and I've seen the sharks.<br />
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Anemone and Seahorse were both looking a little worried after listening to Goby being scolded.<br />
<br />
"Is all the homework done?" I asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes, Pop," they all replied.<br />
<br />
"In that case, let's just relax. It's our resort, you can have free run of the place. Stay on the grounds or within sight of the resort at all times or I will be cross. You don't want me to be cross, do you?"<br />
<br />
"No, Pop."<br />
<br />
"Right then, go have some fun."<br />
<br />
The rest of the afternoon was spent enjoying the place.<br />
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Jericho managed to find and hire a new bartender for the pool bar.<br />
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Unlike me, she actually knew what she was doing.<br />
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[Sigh] Tragic clown wasn't weird enough. A snorkelling tragic clown - in a swimming pool.<br />
<br />
The 24 hours can't be over soon enough for me.<br />
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The shallow pools were popular with the younger kids. They spent ages splashing around.<br />
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Monica practiced with her wind surfing again. She was very careful to stay much closer to the resort than she normally would have.<br />
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Jericho and I did some important quality control testing of the hot tub.<br />
<br />
It seems to still be in fine working order but you have to test these things to be sure.<br />
<br />
As the light faded from the sky, we sent the kids home. Jericho had finally passed the 24 hours and no longer had the tragic clown effect.<br />
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"Hey, love. I had a thought."<br />
<br />
"Oh Sammy, that sounds dangerous. A thought? Did it give you brain fever?" Jericho said with a wide grin.<br />
<br />
"Nope, baby fever. Now that I know we really did travel to the future, I was wondering if we should find out about the future of baby making. See how they take care of it many years from now."<br />
<br />
Jericho's grin got even wider. "Babies? It's time for babies?"<br />
<br />
"Of course it is. Now that Seahorse and Anemone are in school - we need someone to fill those cribs." His grin got wider. "Of course, we have to have twins. I can't imagine having a single baby at a time."<br />
<br />
"Oh Sammy, that's a wonderful idea. When?"<br />
<br />
I shrugged, "Why not now? We'll be back just a few minutes after we go. That's the interesting thing about time travel."<br />
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In celebration of going back to the future, we both let out our sprites.<br />
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Our normal car is an old junker. I spend enough time in the police car during work that I don't like to drive. Jericho usually swims unless he really can't get somewhere that way.<br />
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I guess when Monica and Goby want to learn to drive, we will have to get a better car. More modern with every last safety feature that I can find. All of them, no matter how 'uncool' it makes the car.<br />
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They can live with 'uncool' or not drive. I prefer the second option but I doubt I'll have my way on that.<br />
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<span id="goog_1057688313"></span><span id="goog_1057688314"></span><br />
We discovered that in the future, any couple can go to any hospital at any time to make babies. The downside is that the hospital charges quite a bit for the service. The science lab takes a bit longer for the results but I guess they still consider it an experimental procedure and don't charge for it.<br />
<br />
Still, we came home with two brand new members of the family. Their names are Polly and Coral. They are beautiful babies and we couldn't be happier that our family has grown some more.<br />
<br />
<br />
-----<br />
<b>Bonus pics</b><br />
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The return of Sammy's bum.<br />
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Jericho's children can look very interesting in the play costumes.<br />
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Random water taxi shot<br />
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The tragic clown get up did upset Sam some but they still managed to be quite affectionate even while Jericho was still under the influence.<br />
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I don't even remember changing Sam's outfit. But I do still love his face.<br />
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Speaking of faces - Jericho's is very nice as well. He is working on simbotics.<br />
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PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-21908099490284744492014-08-08T15:14:00.000-07:002014-08-08T15:14:30.111-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 8)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Monica?"<br />
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"Yes, Pop?"<br />
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"Your father and I are planning to spend the weekend at the resort. Would you and Goby keep an eye on your siblings?"<br />
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"Pop! I might have plans for the weekend." I noticed the word 'might'. So she probably doesn't have any yet. Perhaps a little cash?<br />
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"It's worth 100 simoleons."<br />
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"To share with Goby?" Monica did not sound very impressed with that idea.<br />
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I had thought 100 wasn't a bad offer for both of them. Well, it is a whole weekend. I suppose I can up the amount. "100 simoleons each, but you better do a good job of it. Both of you," I told Monica.<br />
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"Okay Pop. I'll do it." I smiled. Nothing like cash to motive a teen.<br />
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Having settled what to do with the kids for the weekend, Jericho and I threw a few things in a bag and headed for the resort. It wasn't long before we arrived. The new house really is quite close to it.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
I left Jericho to check on the facilities while I went to let them know we'd arrived.<br />
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"Do you have a reservation, sir?"<br />
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"I'm Sam Grant, one of the owners. I believe you were expecting us for the weekend?"<br />
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"I'm sorry that I didn't recognise you, Mr Grant. You've been booked into our best accommodation for the weekend."<br />
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"The best?"<br />
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"Yes sir. We hadn't had anyone book it when your request came through so it's all yours." She handed me a set of keys. "It's the room at the end of the pier. You can't miss it."<br />
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"How about food?"<br />
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"The resort has a full array of buffet tables, the meals are all included in the price for our guests. Feel free to help yourself at any time." She smiled brightly. "After all sir, you pay for all of it."<br />
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It didn't take long for me to see why we did have to inspect the place. Jericho had ordered a full range of these little spring riders for any children visiting.<br />
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But they'd been installed badly, there was no way any kid was going to be riding on those middle ones. We'd have to get someone in to spread them out more, so all of them can be used.<br />
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Naturally, Jericho wanted to test some of the other features of our resort.<br />
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Fire walking - now is that a wise thing for a Strider to do? Fire and water are usually not a good mix.<br />
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"I made it!"<br />
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"You did, Jer. You did."<br />
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Unlike Jericho, I was testing something safe and restful; namely the resort hot tub.<br />
<br />
"Is there room in there for a friend?"<br />
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"Maybe, Jericho. I might just make some room for you," I told him.<br />
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Yeah, well, that didn't last long. He just laughed and slid in beside me. "You aren't nearly big enough to need this whole tub to yourself. And I'd like to get a bit wet after that fire walk."<br />
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"What possessed you to do that?"<br />
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"It's not dangerous, Sammy. It looks like it should be but as long as you keep a steady stride, it's fine."<br />
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"I know something else that's fine."<br />
<br />
"What's that?"<br />
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"The love of my life. He's very fine."<br />
<br />
I went in for a big smooch. Jericho didn't seem to mind the idea at all.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Sam. Want to know something else you can do in a hot tub?"<br />
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"Better than smooching?"<br />
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He chuckled. "I think you'll like it."<br />
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Next thing I knew, Jer had pulled me under the water.<br />
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I have to admit that his idea was far better than just smooching.<br />
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Fortunately, the resort doesn't have many guests at the moment and the ones that are around don't have any children.<br />
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Finally, as evening fell, I set up to do the bar tending that I was supposed to do for Jer.<br />
<br />
We'd installed a cool bar that was along one edge of the swimming pool. I checked the supplies and found a short recipe list of the most commonly requested drinks. Since I had no guests waiting for a drink, I tried to memorise as much of the list as I could.<br />
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I looked into the pool when I heard a splash.<br />
<br />
"Jericho? What on earth are you wearing?" What do you say when you find your partner, swimming fully dressed in a suit you don't even recognise and clown makeup? What?<br />
<br />
"Just a second, Sam. Let me get closer."<br />
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He pulled himself out of the water and sat on one of the stools.<br />
<br />
"Hey, bartender, could you mix me a drink?"<br />
<br />
If Jericho wanted to play strangers at the bar, well, I can manage that. "Sure thing, buddy, what will you have?"<br />
<br />
"The strongest thing you can make. Maybe make it a double, my day recently went seriously downhill."<br />
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I went through the list again and decided the Vodka SimTini was the most alcoholic drink on the menu.<br />
<br />
"So, buddy, this is a resort. You should be on holidays. How come you're having a bad day?"<br />
<br />
"I want that drink first."<br />
<br />
"Right you are. This will take a couple of minutes."<br />
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I tried a few fancy moves while mixing the drink.<br />
<br />
It didn't work well. Guess my boss is going to have to dock my wages for a few broken pieces of glass. At least it wasn't the booze bottles. Those things are expensive.<br />
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"Vodka SimTini, just for you."<br />
<br />
Jericho took a sip and spit half of it back out. "That's awful. I should ask for my money back."<br />
<br />
"Sorry, buddy. It's my first night on the job. I haven't learned very much yet."<br />
<br />
"Your boss needs to spring for you to go to bartending school. That was the worst drink."<br />
<br />
"Enough play, Jer. Now give, what the hell is that outfit?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know, Sam. I really don't. But I can't take it off. I heard this voice<br />
<i>'For 24 hours you will be,</i><br />
<i>A tragedy for all to see,</i><br />
<i>For one day you are bound</i><br />
<i>To go around as the Tragic Clown'</i><br />
You saw me dive into the pool. I was sure that I could shed this when I transformed to full Strider. But it didn't work."<br />
<br />
"This is going to last a day?"<br />
<br />
"I'm afraid so, Sam. I just hope that it does only last for a day."<br />
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I stayed at the bar most of the evening but Jer was my only guest the entire time. Perhaps just as well, I do need some practice at mixing drinks.<br />
<br />
Then we retired to our room. My first impression was, "This is the luxury room? The best room of the resort?"<br />
<br />
Well, it is isolated, which is a plus. It has its own little deck and chairs to watch the sea. The sliding doors opening toward the sea are good.<br />
<br />
But the rest of this room could use a serious upgrade. It's way too much on the 'cheap and cheerful' side of things. We could charge some serious money if the furniture and fittings were better.<br />
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"Hey, handsome, how about a little snuggling?"<br />
<br />
"That sounds like fun, Jer."<br />
<br />
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A little while later, I climbed out of bed.<br />
<br />
"Jer, I tried. Honestly, I tried. But your outfit."<br />
<br />
"Bad?" asked Jericho quietly.<br />
<br />
"It's horrible. Think of it from my point of view. I'm trying to make out with a clown. It's really freaky. You seriously can't take off even just the makeup?"<br />
<br />
"It didn't come off when I was wet and it won't come off now that I'm dry. Sammy, I don't want to be like this."<br />
<br />
"I know, love. But until you get back to normal, I'm not sure I can cope."<br />
<br />
"At least if the curse is true, I'll be back to normal before the kids see me."<br />
<br />
"Goddess, I hope so. I can't imagine how much you'd freak Anemone or Seahorse this way." Goby and Monica might cope a little better since they are older. But the little ones might freak entirely.<br />
<br />
<br />
---<br />
<h4>
Bonus pics</h4>
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Jericho can stay under the water a very long time and Sammy is looking a little surprised. <br />
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Sammy has fans - I never remember to turn celebrities off and so he's been one since long before they moved to Paradise Island.<br />
<br />
"Can I take your photo?"<br />
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"Sure, how's this?"<br />
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Poor Jer. I was using the box to get him around a bit quicker because he does love to swim between islands. Next thing we both know, he's been Tragic Clown-ed for a day.<br />
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I think this poster is very cute.<br />
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Nude Sammy for your viewing pleasure.<br />
<br />
This tragic clown thing is disturbing for all of us. Sammy can get nude but Jericho is just kind of stuck. Actually, I could try using MasterController to switch his outfit but I'm afraid that if I did that, he might not go back to normal properly.<br />
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Sammy's face when the tragic clown outfit starts seriously getting on his nerves.<br />
<br />
The poor babies.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-32805180352211514812014-04-25T22:21:00.001-07:002014-04-25T22:21:44.714-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 7)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sunrise over the ocean, it was always such a beautiful sight.<br />
<br />
"Jericho, I had the weirdest dream last night. I dreamt that you and I had gone through this time portal and into the future. Do you think that Goby had anything to do with it?"<br />
<br />
I could imagine our son doing something like that, just to test his newfound ability to influence dreams. It had been the most realistic dream. If it had been Goby, he was already an artist at creating dreams.<br />
<br />
"Sammy, you might want to check your pockets first," was the mysterious response from Jericho.<br />
<br />
I started to checked my pockets and realised that I had on the same black outfit that I'd acquired during the dream. Wait, what?<br />
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Then I felt around the pocket and found the little holodisk sprite. He's definitely from the future, I'd never seen anything quite like it in this time. They seemed quite common in the future.<br />
<br />
"Good morning, little fellow. You're real?" I asked it.<br />
<br />
It didn't reply in words, I don't think they can. But it brightened with the sun and looked happy to be out.<br />
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"Yes, Sam, they are real," Jericho said. He had also pulled his from a pocket to talk to for a moment. "I'm pretty sure no matter how real Goby can make dreams, we wouldn't have new clothes or these little guys from a dream."<br />
<br />
I shook my head. "Hard to believe that was real though. Robots of all types, hover boards, jet packs."<br />
<br />
He chuckled, "Jet pack smooching. Plus we have plenty of descendants. Our family lives on well into the future, Sam. I love knowing that."<br />
<br />
I smiled at Jericho. "I bet you've been especially pleased since learning that there will be plenty of Striders in the sea. You have made a difference for your people."<br />
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"Well," he said as he scooped up Anemone. "The three Striders we have is a start but I still need to go back to the Depths. I need to tell my clan about the science lab and how Striders can have children that way."<br />
<br />
I tried not to let Jericho know how deeply that idea worried me. I know we are tied together forever. I can feel our bond. Still there is some part of me that worries that perhaps Jericho would find the depths attractive enough to stay. Forever tied and forever apart. It was the scariest thought I'd ever had. Far worse than mere death.<br />
<br />
Jer, in the meantime, had put Anemone down and picked up Seahorse.<br />
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That's when I found that I wasn't nearly far enough away from Jericho to hide the fact that his statement made me nervous. "Love, I promise, I'll only be gone for a few days. Whenever I go to the Depths, it will only be for the briefest time that I can manage. I wish you could go. I really do."<br />
<br />
I sighed. "So do I, love. We've never been apart for more than a few hours. A few days are going to feel like forever."<br />
<br />
"I'm not ready to go yet and I want to take Goby along, so we'll have to wait until a school holiday. And Sam?"<br />
<br />
"Yes?"<br />
<br />
"One of the reasons that I want to take Goby is he could decide to stay in the Depths. It will be up to him but I know that my clan would welcome him."<br />
<br />
I blinked. "Seriously, you'd leave our son behind?"<br />
<br />
"Don't think of it that way, Sam. It's his heritage, just as valid as his land based heritage from you. The choice should be his." He smiled. "I don't think Goby will be ready this time, but he'll meet some others in the clan. If he's as strong a Dreamwalker as I think; once he's met them, he can visit in dreams whenever he likes."<br />
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Well, the idea of Goby leaving us forever and Jer leaving home for a few days upset me. But now it was my turn to potentially upset Jericho. "Jer, Love, I have a really really big favour to ask of you." I looked into his deep blue eyes. "You might not like this." I shuddered to think how much he might not like this.<br />
<br />
"Sam, you should know that I can't say no to you about anything," Jericho replied.<br />
<br />
"You know that Seahorse and Anemone are going to be starting school soon? They'll need bigger beds and I know you'd like more kids and ..." I hesitated. "I want to move, Jer."<br />
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"Oh goddess, I knew it. You want to move back to the plains." Jericho's stress at the thought was obvious. "I knew living here was too good to last."<br />
<br />
"No, no, forever no!" I replied emphatically. "Jericho, I told you when we moved here that we'd never live far from the sea again. I don't want to move back to the plains."<br />
<br />
"Then what do you want, Sammy?"<br />
<br />
"I want a house, Jer. A freaking huge house with tons of space. I'm not coping well with just a houseboat. How can we fit beds in for Seahorse and Anemone? How can we have any more kids until Monica and Goby move away from home?"<br />
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Jericho sighed in relief. "Is that all? I've been so afraid that you would want to move back to the plains someday." He pulled me into a hug. "You really don't want to go back?"<br />
<br />
"No, Jericho. I've known this move was right for you from the moment we stepped on the islands. Just being near the sea seems to have made you much more relaxed and happy."<br />
<br />
"It has, Sammy. It really has. But if you weren't planning on going there, why did you think I might not like it?"<br />
<br />
"Well, love. I found a lovely huge home. It overlooks the sea but there isn't any direct access. And I'm afraid that we'll basically be broke once we buy it." I pulled away from him to look into those marvellous blue eyes. "Like, seriously, everything we have will go into it."<br />
<br />
"Sammy, I'm not afraid of being poor with you. Not that I expect we'd stay low on cash for any length of time. The resort is going very nicely now." He sighed. "Though I will miss the ability to just dive off the boat and into the water."<br />
<br />
"You will be all right with this?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Sam. You hold my heart and I will be wherever you are. Whether it be this boat, or a house, or a tiny flat that we can't move around in or a freaking cave in the middle of nowhere. You are the most important thing in my life." He pulled me into a big smooch. "It will be a pity that we can't just position our home above the Depths. But if it takes a bigger house on land to make you happy, then we move, Sammy."<br />
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It took us a couple of weeks to make the arrangements. We sold the houseboat as is, leaving behind the furniture and all. I'd done the inspection of the new house and it had furniture.<br />
<br />
Some of what it had, I'd want to change over time but it would do for now.<br />
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The main advantage of leaving the furniture behind was that made the actual move quite simple. The family piled into a water taxi and off we went.<br />
<br />
Our new home was on a different island. It would be a bit harder for me to get to work and the kids to get to school. We'd have to catch water taxis every day.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, we were going to be much closer to the resort. Jericho could check on it in person far more often.<br />
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The new house was also so spacious. The kitchen alone was nearly the size of the lower deck of the boat. Above the garage was a small apartment. Nice space for Goby and Monica to be a bit away from the chaos of their younger siblings. There were several other bedrooms and best of all, a nice large back yard for relaxing.<br />
<br />
The pool in the back was big enough for Monica and I to do serious laps. Jericho and Goby would probably find it barely big enough to splash around in. That's fine, the ocean isn't that far away. It's likely even our toddlers wouldn't find it much of a challenge to swim across.<br />
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We arrived and the kids were excited about all the possibilities of the new place. "Pop, is it all right if I try out the pool?"<br />
<br />
"Sure Goby, the agent told me that they'd had a regular service while this place was empty," I told him.<br />
<br />
"Why would this place stay empty? It's wonderful. It's so much bigger than the boat," said Monica.<br />
<br />
I guess they don't really remember the home we had in the plains which was also big. Goby and Monica were still pretty young when we moved. "Mostly because this house costs a lot. Expensive homes can sometimes take a long time to sell," I explained.<br />
<br />
Goby went off to have a swim while Monica wandered around the house to examine everything.<br />
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"Happier, Sammy?"<br />
<br />
"Very much so, Love." I pulled him into a big hug. "I guess it's just a fundamental difference between us. To me, the houseboat just felt too tiny for us."<br />
<br />
"For me, it was huge. All that lovely water surrounding it? Just an extension of our home." We stopped hugging and he stared at me. "I do tend to forget that water is my home, not yours."<br />
<br />
"I know, love. I have to remind myself that your natural place is water. But I hope this is close enough to be perfect for all of us."<br />
<br />
"I think so, Sammy. I think so."<br />
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I grabbed him, whirled him around and went in for a kiss.<br />
<br />
"Hey, sexy. I got something to show you that I think will make you very happy," I whispered in his ear.<br />
<br />
"What?"<br />
<br />
"Gonna have to wait for it, sexy. But not very long." I pulled him back up. "I want you to follow me upstairs."<br />
<br />
"Hmm, bit early for bed, isn't it?" Jericho teased as we went upstairs.<br />
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"That wasn't quite what I had in mind to show you." I opened one door and lead the way in. "Tada, a complete nursery. Full of everything a baby needs."<br />
<br />
It really was an amazing nursery. Crib, toys, potty, and everything that a baby and toddler needs.<br />
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Jericho looked around the room. I could see his eyes pass over the toys on the shelves, the bookcase of toddler books, the toy chest. "Sammy, I'm speechless."<br />
<br />
"Isn't it the best thing?"<br />
<br />
Jericho looked at me with a twinkle in his eyes. "Well, no. Not quite. Having a nursery is not quite the best thing."<br />
<br />
I laughed. "I know where that thought is going. The twins are going to be having their birthday soon, and when they don't need cribs..."<br />
<br />
"More babies? Please tell me you would like more babies."<br />
<br />
"Of course, more babies. Eventually a lot of babies but only one or two for the moment."<br />
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Jericho pulled me close. "Two?" he asked quietly. "Can we have twins again?"<br />
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"Aren't you tired of two at a time?" I replied.<br />
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"Never. I never get tired of twins. I fucking love twins. Please?" He kissed me hard, leaving me breathless.<br />
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I had to smile when he finally pulled back. "Twins is a lovely idea. That way, you can't hog all the baby time. If we only had one, would I get any time with the baby?"<br />
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"Not a lot, Sammy. I guess occasionally if I'm asleep or something but not a lot of time."<br />
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"In that case, we definitely have two more. I'll get very grumpy if I don't have my baby time."<br />
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"Oh dear. You know I don't like you very grumpy. Maybe just a little grumpy from time to time," he chuckled at me. I'm lucky that he understands my moods.<br />
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Our oldest children had discovered another room in the new house.<br />
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A little tiny workout room. They both decided to take advantage of it.<br />
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I wasn't surprised. Jericho and I like to keep fit, that our children would want to is pretty natural.<br />
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It wasn't long after the move that Seahorse and Anemone had their birthday.<br />
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For the big occasion, we each grabbed a toddler and brought them to separate cakes.<br />
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Jericho had picked up Seahorse first.<br />
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So I had little Anemone.<br />
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"Big breath! Now blow out the candles and make a wish."<br />
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With a little extra help, all the candles were out.<br />
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"Your turn, little one. One, two, three, blow!"<br />
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"Hurray! You'll get your wish, Anemone."<br />
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I looked up to see Jericho headed out the back. "Jer?"<br />
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He didn't even slow down. "Sorry, Sam. I need a minute to myself."<br />
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Poor Jer. The idea that our babies are about to start school seems to have depressed him.<br />
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We will definitely have to see about more babies soon. Sooner would be better.<br />
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Seahorse and Anemone have grown up very well.<br />
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<b>Bonus pics</b><br />
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glitch pic<br />
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I have no idea what Jericho said to Sammy but<br />
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Sammy was seriously ticked off and poor Anemone looks like "Let me down! I don't want to be in the middle of this!"<br />
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Poor child. Fortunately, her dads very very rarely do this but man, when Sammy is ticked off, you do not want to be near him.<br />
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Goby, honestly, why didn't you go for a swim. You are dressed for it. Damn you boy, you ruined the shot.<br />
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Sam and Jericho got over their little spat very quickly.<br />
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Sammy having another grumbly moment. What is your problem, Sam?<br />
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"We are nearly broke. All because of you!"<br />
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I know, I was the one who really wanted the move. Trying to get half decent angles on that boat was maddening.<br />
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Original kitchen look ummmm. One colour palette for the wall paper, a different thing for the floor tiles and a different one again for the cabinets. Yuck.<br />
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down 1<br />
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down 2 derp<br />
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Has anyone been missing Sammy's bum? No? Oh well, here it is, just in case you did.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-20492757959621163422014-03-09T04:49:00.000-07:002014-03-17T05:15:10.966-07:00An interlude - Into the Future with Sam and JerichoI am not going to try and fit this into the current Sammy story. But here's their first foray into the future.<br />
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So the time portal and traveller appear.<br />
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He gives an almanac to Jer.<br />
<br />
And glitch stops play.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
So ...<br />
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Around we go again, this time catching the portal appearing.<br />
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Sam, obviously dressed for serious business, comes to check it out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2vzObaO7Oweh2i-uepADbosAVKAnHwW6bIPTwpXHnGlZsxP0TnsFMmPJDcmei37r7vB5jjIJjlEoGAYD6BaqiPUF7EU86jk7RRh_7VoE0USFE2Lsq_aW-0sg-zeLJ6oYNO-eSm7gqaU/s1600/Screenshot-1109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2vzObaO7Oweh2i-uepADbosAVKAnHwW6bIPTwpXHnGlZsxP0TnsFMmPJDcmei37r7vB5jjIJjlEoGAYD6BaqiPUF7EU86jk7RRh_7VoE0USFE2Lsq_aW-0sg-zeLJ6oYNO-eSm7gqaU/s1600/Screenshot-1109.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
So he's the one to met Emmet and get the box.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioqIJlR4eW5-UBIxAfIXsShvckpERRk6jtRwl8wYJj2zYE5wehbhGnWypFx_FYBIDGJB7F8ZjRlyXIj-S18PnktkCObLq6xcSQxz0wNlHXJb8VjTkvtGNM1cKx0mjWhK1Ww3C2XE46mc/s1600/Screenshot-1110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioqIJlR4eW5-UBIxAfIXsShvckpERRk6jtRwl8wYJj2zYE5wehbhGnWypFx_FYBIDGJB7F8ZjRlyXIj-S18PnktkCObLq6xcSQxz0wNlHXJb8VjTkvtGNM1cKx0mjWhK1Ww3C2XE46mc/s1600/Screenshot-1110.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
The default future is a pretty place. Apparently the utopia version is even prettier while the other not so much so.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPAZd53v43j0-NkBCBnTBaKwrpJrnkrj9DJmjltxaGNq3CGv8971pvvBIVWZqQvpkmiiLvyrNRwCUWN6LncNLl2PK6jVYkYXluqTLwHj8hXkGoPxByKyWdk2LQkJsqSBsoYS1ZnEM1Zs/s1600/Screenshot-1111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPAZd53v43j0-NkBCBnTBaKwrpJrnkrj9DJmjltxaGNq3CGv8971pvvBIVWZqQvpkmiiLvyrNRwCUWN6LncNLl2PK6jVYkYXluqTLwHj8hXkGoPxByKyWdk2LQkJsqSBsoYS1ZnEM1Zs/s1600/Screenshot-1111.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
"Oh my god, Jer. Look at this place!"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5oGt6SD0jaVKTGm3yuoyPPxIebtCHWwm6ZfZYorStJy_O9SNG-RiV9Tk0qVR-dH_38lYJvir46w7EX5vvexdQ_R-3zeVLbohdWs6xCwpx18P7fd7gBm-3HfL8lMmtP-AtNI2P7OTsro/s1600/Screenshot-1112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5oGt6SD0jaVKTGm3yuoyPPxIebtCHWwm6ZfZYorStJy_O9SNG-RiV9Tk0qVR-dH_38lYJvir46w7EX5vvexdQ_R-3zeVLbohdWs6xCwpx18P7fd7gBm-3HfL8lMmtP-AtNI2P7OTsro/s1600/Screenshot-1112.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
"I'm impressed, Sammy. Seriously impressed."<br />
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The first thing the guys want to do is jet pack.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6H5zYEiwsWqmm2riPyXNpJ5_UzjoVGa8Gzfd8OTwVmu5LBVdeqm_WIWou6uu2DS8O2UbZqCbS7LeuV2_hFiVHsWj4fP5_kn-c02pbkhBhbfe_XPsH2jRfI8d-BTPQbei9T4_1-o7HhR4/s1600/Screenshot-1114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6H5zYEiwsWqmm2riPyXNpJ5_UzjoVGa8Gzfd8OTwVmu5LBVdeqm_WIWou6uu2DS8O2UbZqCbS7LeuV2_hFiVHsWj4fP5_kn-c02pbkhBhbfe_XPsH2jRfI8d-BTPQbei9T4_1-o7HhR4/s1600/Screenshot-1114.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
So they goof around in the air for a bit. Control of the jet packs is definitely lacking at this stage.<br />
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Umm, Sammy. I don't think that's the approved landing technique.<br />
<br />
Muffled grumbling from ground.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfV2UkK1L6Ar5Yv3hLr8t7nNZUIXyt0QnSaIOPTmOH1zIA3_cJCQpDHp4sG_Qwt7iSgQhHt4_WpSTyrcgvcmBiTYIAQ4wK2rfPs8bWAaHBilCnZP_rwYs7nq9qRhsZQ4O5XTbTCAmzKhI/s1600/Screenshot-1116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfV2UkK1L6Ar5Yv3hLr8t7nNZUIXyt0QnSaIOPTmOH1zIA3_cJCQpDHp4sG_Qwt7iSgQhHt4_WpSTyrcgvcmBiTYIAQ4wK2rfPs8bWAaHBilCnZP_rwYs7nq9qRhsZQ4O5XTbTCAmzKhI/s1600/Screenshot-1116.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
After a moment, Sam manages to get up. "Oh my god. That hurt!"<br />
<br />
Wow you didn't even leave a hole! Must be a future tech lawn.<br />
<br />
"I said THAT HURT! I need sympathy here."<br />
<br />
Maybe starting with jet packs was a little ambitious.<br />
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Why don't we try something safer and indoors?<br />
<br />
So gentlemen, do you like the futuristic beds?<br />
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I think that means yes.<br />
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"That's a fine ass."<br />
<br />
Woah, Mister, weren't you flirting with a girl like ten seconds ago?<br />
<br />
"I still say it's a fine ass."<br />
<br />
That ass does have fans, I must admit. Still, I don't think you'll make any impression on Sam so bug off.<br />
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"Hey, I need to play with your chips."<br />
<br />
"Sir, have you the tiniest idea what you are doing?"<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
"And you still want to do this, Sir?"<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
"Very well. But I may not function later."<br />
<br />
Note, Sam did kind of muck up this poor bot a bit. It refuses to be his friend.<br />
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Jericho went to check out the statues in the centre of the founders park. Maybe someday they can be there.<br />
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Sammy, seriously. You are going to kill yourself with those jet packs.<br />
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"Check out the hoverboard!"<br />
<br />
That looks safer but why are you making Jer run?<br />
<br />
"Umm, we forgot to bring two. Maybe next time."<br />
<br />
Good thing Jericho is fast on his feet.<br />
<br />
"Do you think this is going to ruin our date?"<br />
<br />
It's not exactly romantic to leave your mate running while you ride.<br />
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Sammy, how on earth?<br />
<br />
"No idea, Mum. I wanted to get somewhere and there was my cop car."<br />
<br />
All right, carry on...oh wait, I see you are already.<br />
<br />
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"Well, hello there. We are Jericho and Sam Grant. You're descended from us." They decided to seek out one of the homes of their descendants.<br />
<br />
"Yes. I think you are great great great great great grandpa Sam."<br />
<br />
"Jericho, isn't it nice to see our family lives on?" Pause. "Jer, you don't seem very pleased."<br />
<br />
"No striders, Sam. There are no striders in this place."<br />
<br />
"Actually, there are striders. But none of them happen to live here. There are some that live in the city and a lot live in the depths."<br />
<br />
"There are still striders?"<br />
<br />
"Lots of them."<br />
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So they have a quick meal at the descendants home.<br />
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"I like you, little guy. Do you think anyone would mind if I kept you?"<br />
<br />
Sammy, are you going to steal that little holo sprite?<br />
<br />
"I'm sure they'd give it to me if I asked."<br />
<br />
So will you ask?<br />
<br />
"Nope."<br />
<br />
Then you are stealing it. Bad Sammy.<br />
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"So, great great..."<br />
<br />
"Why don't you just call me Jericho?"<br />
<br />
"Are you sure? That seems a bit rude."<br />
<br />
"We aren't even grandparents yet. I'm not ready to be a great great whatever granddad."<br />
<br />
"All right. How do you like the future?"<br />
<br />
"It's interesting. Things certainly have changed."<br />
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"Since we only have the one hoverboard, do you want to take the shuttle back to the visitor centre?"<br />
<br />
"Given how late it is, that sounds better than going for another run."<br />
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Quick, safe, effective and a new place to woohoo. What more could they want?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwADoMAjNLPHC7mR308HsWvOk_ktoKJdSFDZGjMOr-U_oI7FnQUvQPsx4VcZA7UmDWJHI_AhZFUitgGkra4uKVWCqEIyJz2DAJg22z2tJyBZ-TeNGS_Jlv6rxssn-FMu9hhxcDTX04cg/s1600/Screenshot-1132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwADoMAjNLPHC7mR308HsWvOk_ktoKJdSFDZGjMOr-U_oI7FnQUvQPsx4VcZA7UmDWJHI_AhZFUitgGkra4uKVWCqEIyJz2DAJg22z2tJyBZ-TeNGS_Jlv6rxssn-FMu9hhxcDTX04cg/s1600/Screenshot-1132.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm not sure I like these future bed/capsules. I like when couples snuggle in their sleep and they don't seem to in these beds.<br />
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"Hey there, little guy. Good morning."<br />
<br />
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"Aren't you just the brightest little sprite in the morning?"<br />
<br />
Looks like Jer has one as well now.<br />
<br />
"He picked it up here. Is that all right with you?"<br />
<br />
I don't know, Sammy. This is not your permanent place.<br />
<br />
"No one is here to tell us no."<br />
<br />
Well, it looks like Jer and his little sprite have bonded too so I guess it's all right.<br />
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They spent some of the day enjoying the facilities of this guest residence.<br />
<br />
The pool table was popular.<br />
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As was the hot tub.<br />
<br />
What's Emmet up to?<br />
<br />
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"He stole my clothes."<br />
<br />
Easy there, Sammy.<br />
<br />
"I'm gonna kill him. He stole my clothes."<br />
<br />
Why don't you snuggle Jer? I'm sure he doesn't mind that you don't have clothes. Even the towel might be a bit much.<br />
<br />
"You aren't going to let me kill him?"<br />
<br />
No, Sammy. Clothes aren't that important.<br />
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Nice new duds, Sammy.<br />
<br />
"Emmet ran off with my clothes. I think I might have scared him a little."<br />
<br />
You are a bit scary when angry.<br />
<br />
"You know it's all talk."<br />
<br />
I do but how would Emmet?<br />
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"Hey blue and beautiful, how would you like to take to the skies with me?"<br />
<br />
Sammy, are you sure about this?<br />
<br />
"I totally have this."<br />
<br />
"Sam, you always did know how to sweep me off my feet."<br />
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It looks like Sam is finally getting the hang of the jet pack.<br />
<br />
And he didn't forget and let go of Jericho either.<br />
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They went to visit the robot emporium and found that another branch of their descendants were here. And this lot included a few striders.<br />
<br />
Jericho must have been pleased to know that his species as well as his family are well represented in the future.<br />
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I have decided that Jericho will be learning about bot making for his attempt at getting a statue in the park.<br />
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And as it turns out, the machine has some other interesting possibilities.<br />
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You wouldn't think there would be room for two, would you?<br />
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So after a few hours of learning the ropes, Jer makes his first bot.<br />
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Which he has to sell because with the number of kids they have, one more to take care of is more than I want to deal with.<br />
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Guys, guys, togetherness is good but I think you might be taking it a bit far!<br />
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I love those matching expressions.<br />
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Jer goes off looking for a place he can swim.<br />
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While Sammy begins learning his new skill. He needs to master this for his chance at immortality.<br />
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They both spend a lot of time on hoverboards to improve their future tech skills in general.<br />
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And with a final display of affection.<br />
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Our travellers return to their happy home.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-58517785632960503612014-03-08T02:20:00.000-08:002014-03-17T05:15:34.045-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 6)During my working day, it was all pretty much the same routine. Answer a few calls, reassure old Mrs Wilkins that no one was spying on her (twice), write a few tickets and generally do all the mundane stuff that police are expected to do.<br />
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But it's becoming increasingly clear that I must write reports on citizens, if I want another promotion. There's no time to do that during my work hours, I'm going to have to write those reports during my off hours.<br />
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To get some information so I could even start a report, I first tried asking questions of the various people I met during the day. All of the answers I got were either vague or evasive. I was never going to write a report based on them.<br />
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So I was reduced to digging through someone's trash, just to find something I could write a freaking report on. I don't normally mind dirt but rummaging through trash is taking dirt to a whole new level. One that I'm not comfortable with.<br />
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Maybe giving up police work to do more with the resort is a plan. At least I won't have this to deal with.<br />
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Then again, I'm not the home body that Jer is. I need to get out, talk to different people. I'm sure I'd go stir crazy if I spent too much time at home.<br />
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Eventually I found a few little things that could make up the basis of a report. It was enough, I called it a day and went home.<br />
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I was on my way to take a quick shower when I noticed Monica on the floor.<br />
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"Monica, sweetpea, what you are doing?" I'm afraid that I startled her, she made a little eep noise then turned around to see me.<br />
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"I was checking under the bed for monsters," Monica explained to me with a serious expression. "Monsters love to live under beds, Pop."<br />
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"Did you find any?" I was using my cop voice again. "I'll have to arrest them if they are under your bed without permission."<br />
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"Thank goodness, no." She looked up at me. "Could you really arrest a monster, Pop?"<br />
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"Any monster that dares scare my family is busted. Don't you worry about that, Monica." I gave her a brief hug. "Is your father paying proper attention to you now?"<br />
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She smiled at me. "Oh, definitely, Pop. It's been really great."<br />
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"That's fantastic. I'm glad to hear it. How's school?"<br />
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She shrugged. "Not exciting, Pop, but I'll live."<br />
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"I know how that feels, Monica. You'll be changing schools soon, you and Goby are nearly teens." Gah, when the hell did that happen? When in the hell did my kids age so much? "What did you do after school?"<br />
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"Goby and I did some more sailboarding after school."<br />
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I had to smile at that comment. It's becoming obvious that all our children are going to love the water, even if that love is more natural for some of them than others.<br />
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"So, who's better at sailboarding?"<br />
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She sighed. "Goby is. He's better at everything."<br />
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"Sweetpea, he's not better at school than you are. And I told you before, I'm sure we can find you something that you'll be best at. Writing, painting, music," I paused when I noticed Monica was frowning.<br />
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"Pop, I'm not into arty stuff. That's all arty," she explained.<br />
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"I'm sorry, Monica. Would something like chess suit? It's something that I need to work on." The force still likes every cop to have some skills in logic. But I've always found it difficult to play chess well. I'm more a doer than a thinker.<br />
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She shook her head. "No, Pop. I don't like chess. That's too much sitting and thinking for me."<br />
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"True, that's why I'm not overfond of it either." I looked at Monica. She looked nearly ready to cry. "Sweetpea, have you ever thought about what you'd like to do as a living? Once you're old enough and ready to leave home?"<br />
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She immediately brightened. "A magician, Pop."<br />
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"Magician?"<br />
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"There was a magician in the Very Berry Bear movie. It was so cool. He did so many tricks on stage..." she paused and her face fell again. "Do you think only boys can be magicians, Pop?"<br />
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I shook my head. "If you want to be a magician, then you certainly can be. If you are the only girl magician, we can charge twice as much for entry to your show. I'll look into what you'll need to know to do well. Is that okay?"<br />
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"Pop, you are the best." She gave me a big hug.<br />
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Since Monica was looking much happier, I decided it was time to find out what Jericho had been up to for the day.<br />
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"Hey, blue and beautiful, how has your day been?"<br />
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"Well, for one, I decided it was time to sell the parrot. We never seem to have much time for the bird. It was spending all of its time stuck in the cage. Someone would usually remember to give it food and water but..."<br />
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I nodded. "That was a good move. With the kids, we just don't have time for pets. I miss the pup we had back on the plains though." I thought a moment. "Do you think the new owners will treat it better?"<br />
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"I hope so, Sammy. But seriously, it wouldn't take much attention for the bird to have a better life."<br />
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"Also, I spent some time over at the resort," he said. "I had to test that the pool and the pool slide were very safe for our guests."<br />
<br />
I raised an eyebrow at my grinning mate. "Had to? Seriously? Did you think it could be broken?"<br />
<br />
"The manager must personally test every facility of the resort. It says so in the manual," replied Jericho very seriously.<br />
<br />
"Sure, Jer. And when did you write that manual?" I laughed as I asked the question.<br />
<br />
He winked. "Last week, when I had the workers start on the pool."<br />
<br />
"I'm glad you had a good day."<br />
<br />
"How was yours, Sammy?"<br />
<br />
"Just an average day for a cop. But I'm home now and that's always better."<br />
<br />
He glanced out the porthole. "Getting dark, better put the toddlers to bed."<br />
<br />
"I'll do that, Jer. I haven't seen them all day," I said.<br />
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I put Anemone in one crib and then Seahorse in the other.<br />
<br />
"Night, night, Seahorse. Sleep well, little man."<br />
<br />
"Nigh, nigh, Pop Pop," was the sleepy reply.<br />
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I love the kids so much. I made sure that both toddlers were well settled for the night.<br />
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And first thing in the morning, before I dress then head off for work, I go and get them out of the cribs.<br />
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It's worrying to think how close Seahorse and Anemone are to starting school. In no time at all, there will be no babies around to cuddle. Of course, no diapers or potties either but that's not much consolation.<br />
<br />
Well, I doubt that we will go long before we add more babies to the household. Jericho would be most unhappy if he had no little ones at all. I don't want him to be unhappy. And, to be honest, it wouldn't make me very happy either.<br />
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And then came the big party.<br />
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I knew the day was coming. I'm happy and proud that our oldest children are about to officially be teens.<br />
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And sad too. Our oldest are going to be that much closer to leaving home.<br />
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Still, birthdays must be celebrated and so we invited over some of our friends. There was a lot of shouting and party noise makers.<br />
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Goby went first. What a splendid young man Goby is shaping up to be.<br />
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Monica, our oldest daughter is now a lovely young lady.<br />
<br />
I am starting to believe what Jericho once told me. That Striders live much longer than humans and someone bonded to a Strider would share their lifespan. Because we've been together for over a decade now, yet Jericho looks like he did the day we met. And no matter how much I stare in the mirror, I see no trace of wrinkles or grey hair on me. And I've noticed that you can see a few grey hairs and wrinkles on the other dads of Goby and Monica's friends.<br />
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The toddlers spent the evening quietly playing with toys. I particularly like Anemone's little crocodile. Anemone calls it Smiley.<br />
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I am glad that she bites the toy, not the other way around. <br />
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />
<b>Bonus pics</b><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Glitched Jericho - shoes under his tail fins...</span></div>
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Jericho has spent some time exploring the dive spots for me.<br />
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And I must say that the development team put some time into creating these locations.<br />
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Including the caves to explore<br />
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And of course the occasional shark.<br />
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Goby seems determined to be in ugly clothes every time he ages up.<br />
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<br />PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-87169726986810663212013-10-07T05:52:00.000-07:002014-03-21T17:22:03.128-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 5)It was <b>the</b> nightmare. I'd had the damned thing multiple times, a couple of times a year since the original event happened.<br />
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In the nightmare, I was going to be too late.<br />
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In the nightmare, I wasn't going to save Jer.<br />
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It was based on the worst moment of my life - when Jericho was being attacked. That scene, with Jer flat and motionless on the floor, still haunts me.<br />
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Usually, if Jer is in bed, some part of me realises that it's a nightmare. Or Jer, sensing my distress, holds me tightly which helps. The scene plays out as it really happened. Jericho is seriously hurt but alive. <br />
<br />
Real Jericho wasn't in bed so in the dream I dive past Chuck and wrap my arms around Jericho.<br />
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I do know it's a nightmare. In the nightmare, I also know that he's dying, I hadn't been fast enough to save him.<br />
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"No!" I howl to the world as I hold Jericho close. He's about to breathe his last. He's going to die.<br />
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The nightmare changes in a way that it has never done before. Jer doesn't stop breathing while I hold him. Instead, Jericho's eyes open. Those beautiful blue eyes look deep into mine. "Thank you, Sam. You saved me."<br />
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I woke, startled by the sudden change. My heart was still pounding in my chest, my breathing much too fast. Goby was standing by the bed, two fingers lightly touching my head. When he saw that I was awake, he let his hand drop to his side.<br />
<br />
"Pop? Are you okay?"<br />
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I blinked, trying to clear the shreds of the nightmare from my mind. "What are you doing, Goby?"<br />
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Jericho was just returning and paused by the door.<br />
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"You were having a very bad dream, Pop. I came to fix it. I did fix it, didn't I?"<br />
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I blinked and glanced at Jericho before looking back at Goby. "You changed my dream?" He nodded solemnly. "Yes, you did fix it. But how?"<br />
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Jericho shook his head. "Not now. We'll discuss this in the morning. Goby has school and you have work tomorrow. You both need sleep."<br />
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"Goby? Thank you," I told him as he turned to go back to bed.<br />
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"I'm glad it worked," he replied.<br />
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Jericho got back in bed. "Jer? What happened?" I really wanted an explanation now, not later.<br />
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"I promise, we will talk in the morning. But you'll need your sleep or you'll be grumpy all day. And you being grumpy tends to make me grumpy as well." I found myself snuggling up against him and the warmth of his body next to mine sent me back to sleep.<br />
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The next morning dawned and Jericho slipped out of bed early to make breakfast. The smell of waffles filled the boat and soon we were all eating.<br />
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"So, love, about last night?" I started.<br />
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"Sam, remember I told you that all Striders have magic? That's how Goby controlled water when he was still a toddler?"<br />
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I was nodding while Goby looked puzzled. "Dad?"<br />
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"Goby, you and Seahorse and Anemone are Striders. Being a Strider means you have magic. You've had at least some control over water since you were small, though you haven't used it much lately. I think it's because you've been growing up too far away from salt water. Living here, with sea all around us, should help with that." Jericho took a deep breath and paused for a moment. "What you did last night was Dreamwalking. It's a very rare type of magic. It has the potential to be very powerful as well. You changed your father's nightmare, yes?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I did."<br />
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"How?" I asked.<br />
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He shrugged. "Dunno, Pop. I could tell you were having a nightmare. When I touched you, I could see what you were seeing. I knew how to take control and change it."<br />
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"I don't know much about Dreamwalking. As I said, it's rare. It's certainly the only Strider power I know of that can do what Goby did last night, change someone's dream. I've heard tales that more powerful Dreamwalkers can enter the sphere of dreams either in spirit or in flesh. And some Dreamwalkers can even force others to the sphere of dreams. A Dreamwalker can always leave, but those they force into dreams can't. You could lock someone in their own dreams or nightmares forever. There is an old old Strider tale of an evil Dreamwalker who did just that to a number of people."<br />
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I shuddered at the thought of being trapped in that nightmare. Always finding Jericho dying.<br />
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"Can I be excused when I finish?" asked Monica grumpily. "I don't see why I have to be involved."<br />
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"Monica," replied Jericho gently. "You might have magic too. You are half Strider, after all. And Goby's magic doesn't require water."<br />
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Monica looked at me. "Pop, do you think so?"<br />
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"Sorry, kiddo, but that's strictly his department," I replied pointing at Jericho. "If your father says you might have magic, I'll agree with him. I come with a 100% guarantee of no magic."<br />
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"That's not true and you know it, Sammy. You were touched by magic from the moment we bonded. I know that you've experienced magic since then."<br />
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While the jury was still out on Jer's promise of an extremely long life, we did share emotions and intense physical feelings. After that attack, I helped Jer heal. I nodded slowly, "You are right, there is magic in our bond."<br />
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"Dad, what's bonded? I thought you were married," asked Monica.<br />
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"Actually, sweetheart, we are both. Bonding is something for Striders. If we find someone that is the other half of our soul, someone that we are truly drawn to, then we bond. It's a permanent link, your father and I will always share this bond."<br />
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"It was after that, I told Jericho that I still thought we should marry. To make our union legally binding on land," I said quietly. "Married is a lot easier to explain. But the bond means we'll never part." I glanced at my watch. "Damn, I have to move it and so do you two."<br />
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"If you have any more questions, I'll do my best to answer. I'm not an expert on all things Strider, and no one is an expert on a family of half-bloods. We just have to wing it." Jericho said to all of us as we prepared to leave.<br />
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Bonus pics<br />
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They are still quite the romantic couple.<br />
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And will keep it up for ages.<br />
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Even if you take away their clothes<br />
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A queen must preside over her court.<br />
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Poor Jer. The underpaid domestic.<br />
<br />PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-74057908654941201792013-09-16T15:02:00.001-07:002014-03-21T17:22:33.586-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 4)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since Jericho had gone off with Monica and the toddlers were having a nap, it was a good time for me to spend time with Goby. I sat down next to him, already working away at his homework.<br />
<br />
"Thanks for helping, Pop."<br />
<br />
"Not a problem, Goby. What sort of assignment is it tonight?"<br />
<br />
He shrugged his shoulders, "Just a bit of maths, Pop. I could just grab a calculator."<br />
<br />
"No, Goby, don't." I told him. "Sure, when you are older, you'll use a calculator or computer for all of it. But you should know how to do basic maths without help."<br />
<br />
He gave me a look of disgust. "But Pop! Why should I bother now?"<br />
<br />
"Let's say you are in a shop. You can pick the bag with 100 mints for 1.50. Or a bag of 300 mints for $5.00. Now which do you buy?"<br />
<br />
Goby didn't stop to think. "The bigger bag?"<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
"That's why you need maths. If you buy 3 bags of 100 mints, it will be $4.50 so you'd save .50."<br />
<br />
"Ok, Pop, I guess it's not entirely useless."<br />
<br />
Not exactly a glowing recommendation for doing the homework but at least Goby stopped thinking about the calculator. It didn't take us too long, but I wasn't looking forward to when Goby and Monica started doing more advanced maths as teens.<br />
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Homework complete, I finally had a chance to have some quality time with the toddlers.<br />
<br />
First some good cuddling with Seahorse.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEdy2izQs-9uyXwERXgkp19OPUThW9HCYOIjO7sLDvrDW-n5FW3s9CvPWXKbHhQOXKS3LlqVrtz-wJkXhhUauQ1scnEjducPoNNAQJ-dPnkP1YNsUex2eCA3qi3jC-C6yDi2LjtH1SeU/s1600/Screenshot-942.jpg"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEdy2izQs-9uyXwERXgkp19OPUThW9HCYOIjO7sLDvrDW-n5FW3s9CvPWXKbHhQOXKS3LlqVrtz-wJkXhhUauQ1scnEjducPoNNAQJ-dPnkP1YNsUex2eCA3qi3jC-C6yDi2LjtH1SeU/s1600/Screenshot-942.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Then tickling little Anemone. They are both so adorable, they take so much after Jericho.<br />
<br />
Our little ones are growing so fast, it's going to feel like only another few days before they start school.<br />
<br />
I think I'm going to have to have a serious chat with Jericho soon. Not that I anticipate much objection from my love if adding to our brood is part of the conversation but there are a few more things to contemplate. Like if we are going to add more kids, we need space; far more space than this boat. I'll have to bring it up at some point.<br />
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It wasn't long before they came home. "So, love, how was the movie?"<br />
<br />
"Kind of cute, very sappy and very much a movie for girls. The theatre was just packed with girls about Monica's age and their mothers. I was one of the few guys there except for the staff." He grinned. "I think a couple of the single moms were trying to catch my eye. I ignored them though."<br />
<br />
I had a brief moment of thinking about Jer being hit on in the theatre by some of the mothers. I can imagine any guy who takes his daughter to a movie like Very Berry Bears could be quite the catch.<br />
<br />
"No interest?"<br />
<br />
"You know better, Sam. I'm never going to look at anyone else. I mean, would you? Seriously?" He lightly touched my hand.<br />
<br />
"Let me think." I paused for a moment and Jericho shifted his feet. "Well, if they were male, and a strider and named Jericho and already mine, then yes. Otherwise, it doesn't seem likely."<br />
<br />
He playfully slapped my shoulder. "You are still a wicked man, you do know that Sammy?"<br />
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"I try, love." I pulled him into a hug. "And you took Monica for ice cream after?"<br />
<br />
"She had choc peppermint swirl. Then I got a hug for being the best dad ever."<br />
<br />
I faked a big sigh. "Damn, compared to you, I'll never be the best dad."<br />
<br />
"Now, now, Sam. You are the rock of this family. We all appreciate you." He lightly kissed a cheek. "Though I may be the most appreciative of all. I can't imagine life without you."<br />
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"Tell you what. You can show me a little of that appreciation. Let's go have some fun in bed."<br />
<br />
"You don't have to ask me twice. Last one in bed has to clean the potty later."<br />
<br />
I won the race to bed, just. Jericho is pretty quick even on land but I do have the advantage of doing more physical activity most days because a cop has a lot of running around to do. Then again, Jer might have let me win, he normally has to do it anyway.<br />
<br />
---<br />
<br />
Leisure day was a beautiful fine day. Still a bit hot but a perfect day to head for the park. We decided that the entire family needed to get out and enjoy the day.<br />
<br />
I was near enough to hear Monica talking to Jericho before we left. "Dad, can I ask you for something?"<br />
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"Certainly, sweetpea. What do you want?"<br />
<br />
"I want us to get face paintings at the festival."<br />
<br />
He smiled at her. "If you and your brother want to, sure. I'll give you the money for it."<br />
<br />
"I want everyone to do it. It will be fun!"<br />
<br />
Jericho looked in my direction. "The babies are too young and I'm not sure your father will be up for this. Go ask him and say I will if he will."<br />
<br />
Monica came racing over to me, "Pop, would you please get face painting with us? Dad promises that he will if you do. Pretty please?"<br />
<br />
"This is going to cost you," I said in my most serious cop voice. Monica looked worried, the family don't hear my cop voice very often. "I have to at least get a hug after this."<br />
<br />
"You're the best, Pop." She gave me a big hug. "Seriously, I have the best parents ever."<br />
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As the family started to troop off the boat, I heard Jer say, "Don't forget, plenty of sunscreen. I don't want to deal with sun burn tomorrow."<br />
<br />
"Yes, Dad," our oldest children both replied.<br />
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"Ok, you two wait here. I'll talk to the face painter."<br />
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I don't believe that I let Monica talk me into this. I hope she'll be happy about it.<br />
<br />
The artist does the paintings individually so I had to make appointments for everyone to get theirs done. By the end of the day, we'll all have it done.<br />
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I was going to go over to tell the kids when to pop into the tent. But they kids were in the middle of a water balloon fight so I decided to shout from safe distance. Unfortunately, it was more than an hour before there were more spots, they were going to have plenty of time to kill.<br />
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Then again, they were out of school for the day so they didn't mind at all.<br />
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Jericho was feeling a bit peckish so he decided to enter an eating contest.<br />
<br />
While there was space for 4, he only had one opponent. It should be a cinch for him to win, just one skinny female to beat.<br />
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I decided that I'd go for a snow cone, nice sweet treat.<br />
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It was very tasty.<br />
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The kids stopped the water balloon fight long enough to grab some junk food.<br />
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All up, no healthy food for anyone today. It will be fine though. The occasional treat won't hurt us.<br />
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After my snack, I choose to hit the skating rink. My partner was already practicing, and he was damned good.<br />
<br />
He was also the officer on call so he had to be ready to take off on official business at any time. Bummer on leisure day but I guess it will happen to me sometimes too.<br />
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Jericho managed to lose the eating contest. How he could lose against one skinny girl is a mystery but I guess these things happen.<br />
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Goby and Monica joined me in the rink when they'd finished their food.<br />
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Goby and I tried a slow spin. It was fun while it lasted but<br />
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We weren't good enough to stay up for long.<br />
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Jericho finally had his turn at the face painting.<br />
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Hmm, I think he did a much better job at picking a pattern than I did. It's good not to be the only adult around with a painted face.<br />
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Jericho joined us in the rink.<br />
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But by the time he did, I was already really getting the hang of skating.<br />
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I did feel more than a twinge of jealousy when my partner offered to spin around with Jer.<br />
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I guess I just don't like to see anyone hold Jericho's hands but me. I know it's silly, there is no way Jer is going to do anything more than skate with the dude.<br />
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It was about then that the kids finally had the chance to get their faces painted.<br />
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Goby was supposed to be a pirate but that looks a little spooky.<br />
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And I couldn't work out what Monica had gotten.<br />
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Skating is a lot of fun, and good exercise. I might have to come back a time or three.<br />
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"Love, it's been the best family outing. Everyone is happy. The kids are going to be exhausted."<br />
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"How about you, Jericho? Are you sure you had a good time?"<br />
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He must have caught my tone of voice because an eyebrow arched upwards. "I did but you think you can make it better?"<br />
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"I do indeed. Let me show you."<br />
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There is just enough space for two in one of these, if they are very friendly. We were very very friendly toward each other.<br />
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"Now, it's gone from a good day to a perfect one. And thanks for having your face painted, Sammy. Monica is definitely very happy." He gently touched my face. "I like the pattern. Of course, I do love your face so I'd like almost any pattern. Except maybe clown, I'm not fond of clowns."<br />
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"Between you and Monica, how could I refuse? Your design works very well on you, I hope you know."<br />
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And after a long and quite successful day at the Festival Grounds, the family went home. <br />
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It was an excellent day but I'm always glad to get home again. Now time to collapse and rest up for a normal work day tomorrow.<br />
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Bonus pics<br />
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Monica wanted a prize. She did win a couple of money bags though.<br />
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She probably would have preferred a toy. No luck with the toys.<br />
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No Sammy episode is complete without the shirtless Sam pic.<br />
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Seahorse is looking quite worried. I don't know what Jer is doing to his baby.<br />
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While normally it's naked Sammy rump seen in this blog, this time it's Jericho for a change of pace.
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"Monica, can you talk to me now and tell me what's wrong?" I asked her as gently as I could. Monica had finally stopped hiccuping and I was hoping to get to the bottom of her troubles. "Who doesn't like you? Is your brother bothering you?"<br />
<br />
Monica sniffed. "Pop, it's Dad. Ever since we've moved, it's like I don't even exist. After school, he and Goby swim off going deep in the water and he doesn't even notice me." She stopped to wipe another tear away.<br />
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My heart ached for Monica. "Sweetheart, you and I are going to have to make some allowances sometimes because your dad and siblings were born to live in water. Your dad spent a long time living too far away from the ocean. He missed it and right now, he wants to show Goby everything. He never neglected you back on the Plains, did he?"<br />
<br />
Monica shook her head. "No, he spent lots of time with both of us."<br />
<br />
"I'll talk to him, sweetheart. I'm sure that he loves you just as much as Goby." Goddess, I hope that's true or we are going to have words; serious and angry words.<br />
<br />
"Will you Pop?" she sniffed a few more times. "I've been afraid to ask. What if he really says that I'm just not as important as Goby? I'll never swim nearly as well as he can. I'm not a strider, I'm just...me." The tears started flowing again.<br />
<br />
I hugged her again. "Monica, you are always you. That's really all any of us can say. But if it makes you feel better, we can find something you can do really well. Drawing, music, science, dancing, there's a lot of things out that you can try." I crouched down so I could look her in the eyes. "Everyone in this family is very important. Don't forget that."<br />
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I went downstairs looking for Jericho. What I found wasn't a surprise, given the conversation that I'd just had. He was talking to Goby.<br />
<br />
"So, what was your favourite part of today's swim?"<br />
<br />
"The sunken ship! Do you think it has treasure?" Goby clapped his hands in enthusiasm.<br />
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Jer laughed, "Unlikely this close to the islands. But if we get a bit further out, we probably will find some ships with treasure chests that still have stuff in them."<br />
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"Thanks, Dad." Goby gave Jer a hug.<br />
<br />
"Jericho? Can I talk to you outside?" We didn't need to have this chat in front of Goby. The toddlers were out there but they were still a bit small to understand too much.<br />
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"Sure Sam, Goby and I were done. It was a good day for some serious exploring."<br />
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I led the way out to the deck. When I stopped, Jericho asked, "So, what's up, Sam? You seem a bit upset."<br />
<br />
"It's probably nothing, Jer. I am curious, about how much time are you spending with Goby in the afternoons?"<br />
<br />
He grinned. "We've been swimming every afternoon for at least an hour, sometimes up to two hours before the light fades." He paused. "It's so fantastic to finally be able to teach Goby what he'll need to know if he ever wants to live in the Depths."<br />
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"That's good to hear, Jericho. Now how much time do you spend with Monica this week?"<br />
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He stopped smiling and put a finger to his temple. "Monica..."<br />
<br />
"You do remember her? Our oldest daughter? The one who takes after me?"<br />
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Jericho looked at me, horror dawning in his eyes. "I can't remember. I mean surely..." he shook his head. "No, I just don't remember when I last said anything directly to Monica."<br />
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"Love, I found Monica upstairs crying her eyes out. She thinks that you don't like her because she's not a Strider like the rest of her siblings. She told me that you haven't even looked at her lately."<br />
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Jer momentarily covered his face with his hands. "Sammy, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to neglect her."<br />
<br />
"You do know that I'm not the one that you have to apologise to, right?" Jericho nodded. "I didn't think that you were deliberately ignoring our oldest daughter, but I did have to check."<br />
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"It's just that I got so involved with teaching Goby. I didn't even think what Monica might be feeling if I spent a lot of time with Goby."<br />
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"Just remember, love. There's plenty of time to teach Goby. I don't know what age a young Strider usually leaves home but I'll bet that it will be at least a decade before it happens. And I do promise, we will never live from far the sea again." I pulled him closer. "You do promise not to ignore any of your land-based family, don't you?"<br />
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"By the goddess, I swear I won't. I'm horrified that Monica thinks I don't like her." Jericho shuddered slightly in my arms.<br />
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"That's a good thing, love," I said softly. "Last time we talked about how many kids we should have, you wanted a lot. And if we have a lot of children, they won't all be Striders. I wouldn't want more children if they aren't loved by both of us."<br />
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"They will be. Whether none of them are Striders, all of them are Striders or somewhere between the two; they will all be loved," Jericho replied softly. "I'll take time for each and every one of them."<br />
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I could resist no longer. I pulled him just that little bit closer for a big smooch. "I'm glad. Just don't forget to spend some extra time with Monica over the next few days." I pulled back and looked him those beautiful blue eyes. "You make Monica happy and I know this cute little resort with some very affordable accommodation."<br />
<br />
"So it's already your turn to make me work for a bit of fun? But you haven't done your stint yet," protested Jer.<br />
<br />
"We can combine the two and spend the whole weekend. I'll tend bar to earn one night and if Monica feels loved by then we'll spend two nights."<br />
<br />
"That sounds very fair, Sam. You know, I don't remember us ever spending an entire weekend by ourselves. Having a little break for just us should be heavenly."<br />
<br />
"True. We never even had a honeymoon, since we already had babies and I had a job. We've been very busy ever since."<br />
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The next day at work was a good day. Mostly because I found that they’d decided to promote me and assign me a permanent car. The day itself was stinking hot, over 32C and I had the AC maxed out on the car all day.<br />
<br />
Driving around gave me time to think. I know that Jericho thinks we should concentrate on the resort. Even with the promotion, I'm not going to be earning that much in a day. But being a cop is important and I do get to meet lots of people this way.<br />
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Of course, the resort would have guests and so I'd be meeting people there too. It's a difficult decision when you love your job.<br />
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Now how does a Strider beat the heat when it's 30+ C out?<br />
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He takes his toddlers for a play in the ocean.<br />
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Jericho had to do something for the babies, the houseboat has no AC and there wasn't even a whisper of a breeze. Getting wet was about the only way to beat the heat for them.<br />
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I got home to find that Jericho was sporting a different look.<br />
<br />
"Oh, love, you cut off all that lovely hair."<br />
<br />
"Sammy, you know how beautifully hair floats around you in water in movies?"<br />
<br />
"Yes?"<br />
<br />
"That's faked. In reality, it tries to tie itself into one big knot or floats in your face so you can't see. It had to go." He paused. "I hope you don't mind too much."<br />
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"Goddess no. You're still hot. I did like the long hair but I love this too."<br />
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"I'm glad." He looked a bit more serious. "Can you watch the little ones for a couple of hours?"<br />
<br />
"Sure, Jer, why?"<br />
<br />
"I promised Monica I'd take her to whatever movie she wants."<br />
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I laughed, "And so what are you in for?"<br />
<br />
He grinned back, "Apparently, the Adventures of the Very Berry Bearys. It sounds sort of dreadful from the online descriptions."<br />
<br />
"Serves you right for neglecting Monica," I snickered at him.<br />
<br />
"I know. Then we are going for ice cream after."<br />
<br />
"I hope the two of you have fun." I was looking forward to some quality time with the toddlers.<br />
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<h2>
Bonus pics</h2>
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<br />PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-43877081372929780202013-07-18T22:02:00.001-07:002014-03-21T17:24:11.186-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
"Pop? Could you help me with my homework?"<br />
<br />
"Depends, honey. Whatcha got? I'm not much use on local history. I don't know any more than you do about that." I could never get either Monica or Goby to admit to being the one who started calling me "Pop the Cop." I'm pretty sure it was Monica who decided to get sillier and sometimes call me "Poppa the Coppa" though she won't admit to that either. Jericho gets to be just Dad.<br />
<br />
"Logic problems, Pop. You know the kind. Randy, Sandy and Andy live on the same street. They live in a red house, a blue house and a green house. One owns a cat, one owns a dog and one owns a rat. Who lives in which house with which pet?" Logic has never been a strong point with me but this should be good practice.<br />
<br />
"All right, Monica. Let's tackle it. What else do we know?"<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Monica read the rest of the information and we slowly worked through the steps. Eventually we found that Sandy lived in the blue house with the rat. Andy the red house with the cat. And so Randy had to live in the green house with the dog.<br />
<br />
"That was the last of my homework. Thanks, Pop." I gave her a hug and went to bed. Tomorrow was a work day and I'd have to head off early.<br />
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The next morning, I had an idea while eating breakfast. "Hey, Jericho?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Sam?"<br />
<br />
"I'm thinking about throwing a party tonight."<br />
<br />
"Any particular reason you'd like to throw a party?"<br />
<br />
I tapped my head pretending to think about the question. "Now let's see...house warming party? Getting to know my coworkers party? Showing off my lover party?" I laughed. "That enough reasons yet, blue and beautiful?"<br />
<br />
"Any of those reasons will do, Sam. If you are that keen on having a party, then we should have one. But..." he shuddered for a moment, "suppose one of the guests is like Chuck?"<br />
<br />
I winced at the thought. My former boss, Chuck, had fired me and attacked Jer because of who we are. "We know that's possible, but I'd just as soon have people know about us now. Living quietly in the background isn't going to stop everyone from finding out eventually. And everyone in the police station knows already. I made sure of that when I signed up." I reached for his hand. "Well?" I asked as I squeezed it lightly.<br />
<br />
Jer nodded. "You're right. If we stay here, everyone is going to find out. So let's throw that party."<br />
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So I went off to work knowing that Jer would have a full day of toddler taming ahead of him.<br />
<br />
We were moored to the central island, and which is where the main police station. That's the station I'm assigned to for now. There are also two small stations on the outer islands. Each station has one or more bicycles for getting around on land and one or more boats when we have to travel between islands.<br />
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I'd be bicycling on the island while I was getting to know locals and the area. Later, I'd have to pass a boating test before they'd let me pilot a boat between the islands.<br />
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As it turned out, it was a very wet day of toddler taming for Jericho. If I wasn't bonded to a Seastrider, I would have been a bit worried about the fact that the toddlers were being rained on much of the day.<br />
<br />
But since both Seahorse and Anemone are Striders like their dad, getting a bit wet wasn't a problem. Well, at least that's my hope. Jericho should know what he is doing. I may have to gently remind him that there is such a thing as too wet for the rest of his family.<br />
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I know that Jericho took advantage of the times when the toddlers were asleep to explore around our new home. Not so much looking around the islands as the deeper water near our boat. Poor Jericho, if he'd let me know exactly how much he missed the sea, we would have moved so much sooner.<br />
<br />
Then again, it's one thing in life we will never be able to truly share. Jericho can swim anywhere his fancy takes him. I'm going to have to learn to scuba and have a ton of equipment if I want to follow him under water. It's going to take a lot of time and effort, though I do want to try.<br />
<br />
Eventually, my work day was over. The family was all home and our party guests started to arrive.<br />
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"Hey, welcome to our party."<br />
<br />
"Dude, what an awesome boat. Wish I could live in a place like this."<br />
<br />
"There are plenty of boats available. Why don't you get one?"<br />
<br />
"I'm a Uni student, dude. No water around campus. Can't have a boat without water. And I have no money. Can't buy a boat with no money."<br />
<br />
Jericho shook his head. "That's too bad. Well, have fun tonight."<br />
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It was a good party. Someone brought some food, and there was plenty of dancing and conversation for most of the evening.<br />
<br />
Mind you, we know so few people in town, I invited not only both cops I usually work with but everyone else I'd even met. That included our babysitter. She is the only teen we invited but once the music came on, she didn't seem to mind too much.<br />
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I had a bit of a surprise from one of the guests. "Dude, has anyone ever told you that you're hot?"<br />
<br />
I couldn't believe he would ask. "Are you kidding me? I thought you met my husband?"<br />
<br />
"Is that the blue dude? He's pretty cute too."<br />
<br />
"Sorry, but he's all mine. And I'm not interested in playing around." I took another look at him. "Weren't you the guy in the mascot outfit?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah dude, that was me."<br />
<br />
"Is that the best job you can find?"<br />
<br />
"Pays for college, just."<br />
<br />
"Have fun with the rest of the party but don't hit on me again. I'm seriously not interested."<br />
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Eventually I had a chance to dance with the hottest guy at the party. "So, Jericho, how did your day go?"<br />
<br />
"The toddlers and I had a very good day. They are both bright little ones. And Sammy?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, love?"<br />
<br />
"Our resort cleared 800 today."<br />
<br />
I stopped dancing for a moment. "Seriously?"<br />
<br />
Jer smiled a bit sheepishly. "Well, I spent that and more on improvements but it is turning a tidy profit."<br />
<br />
"Nice. At this rate, I'll be able to retire and you can provide for the family. I can be a kept man, that sounds good."<br />
<br />
"Oh no you don't," replied Jericho with a wicked grin. "You are going to have to earn your keep, one way or another."<br />
<br />
"You know," I started to say. We were interrupted by a particularly loud thud from upstairs.<br />
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Jer and I both stopped to listen since we knew that Goby and Monica had retreated upstairs to play. We waited a moment watching the stairs in case one of the twins came rushing to find us. When there weren't any more loud noises, we resumed dancing.<br />
<br />
The entire family was still getting used to the boat. Sounds travel much better through the structure then a house and so everything was louder than we were used to. And even moored to a dock, the boat still rocked a bit. I'm not sure that living on a boat was really a long term proposal for us. Maybe a solid house with a beach front would be better.<br />
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It was getting late and our guests had departed. Jericho and I were still dancing though, we were having too much fun to stop.<br />
<br />
I decided to return to our previous conversation. "So, how exactly would you expect me to earn my keep?"<br />
<br />
He waggled an eyebrow, and started to grind his hips against mine. "I can think of a few possibilities."<br />
<br />
"You keep that up and I will have to quit work. It's hard enough to leave in the morning as it is."<br />
<br />
"Well, Sam, if the resort keeps earning money like it is, I think you could give up police work. We could moor the boat at the resort and just concentrate on that. It's been rated as a three star resort now, up from the 2 stars it had when I bought it."<br />
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For the next few days after the party, we were all settling into our new routines. Goby, Monica and I would have a day off soon for a local summer festival. I thought everything was going very well.<br />
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Then I heard an odd sound coming from the top deck of the boat. I climbed the ladder to find out what it was. I found Monica quietly sobbing in one corner.<br />
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"Monica, honey? What's wrong?" The quiet sobs grew louder. I put one hand on her shoulder and waited for her to stop. "It's all right, honey. It's all right."<br />
<br />
Finally the flow of tears slowed. It was still a couple of minutes before Monica could talk again. "Oh Poppa. He doesn't like me any more."<br />
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I pulled her into a big hug. "Who doesn't like you, Monica? What's upsetting you so much?"<br />
<br />
Monica tried to reply but had a hiccup attack instead. I just waited for her reply.<br />
<br />
---<br />
Bonus pics<br />
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So to make Jericho Mer, I had to cheat to get him the reward.<br />
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And it looks rather interesting when they do the transform.<br />
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The first and final look at the IFs of the twins. The houseboat is too small and I'd rather have the kids interact with family or friends. So the toys got put back in the inventory and they are never coming out again.<br />
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Sammy rump.<br />
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Slow dance really is so sweet.<br />
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Jericho really can power through water after his transformation.<br />
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Let me out of this thing!PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-52630995567097178002013-07-04T02:40:00.000-07:002014-03-21T17:24:34.439-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (The Return of Clone 63 - Part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Sammy?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, love?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you for arranging this holiday. It's been the best."<br />
<br />
"Blue and beautiful, I thought you'd enjoy this." I had arranged a one week holiday at a small, very cheap and run down little resort on an island for my family. From the moment we stepped off the plane, I knew that this was the right place for Jericho and for our Strider children. For the first time since I've known him, Jer was completely relaxed, happy and content.<br />
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Not that Jer ever complained about our life in the plains. But he told me on our first date that he was a creature of the sea. And Appaloosa Plains didn't have salt water in any quantity, just one small salt water pond. The islands here were surrounded by salt water. More than enough to sooth the soul of my Seastrider husband.<br />
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I looked over the water and spotted our twins Goby and Monica out sail boarding. "The kids are still at it," I told Jer.<br />
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"I wish that Goby would spend a little more time in the water," replied Jericho.<br />
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"After Monica started making great progress on that sail board? I doubt our son could stand to let his sister be more proficient at a water sport," I told him. Mind you, we all know that Goby can literally swim circles around his sister. I hadn't really appreciated how quick he was in the water until watching him race Jericho. The two of them disappeared from view in moments. The only way Monica and I could have kept pace was in a fast boat.<br />
<br />
"Yes, but he should enjoy the ocean more, while we are still here. Who knows when we'll be able to do this again," Jericho said. I could feel his mood change, the idea of returning to the plains made him gloomy. It was time to show him my surprise.<br />
<br />
I stood up. "Goby! Monica! Time to stop!" The kids turned their boards to shore.<br />
<br />
"What's up, Sam?" He looked at me, "Are you finally going to admit to whatever it is that's been making you really pleased with yourself?"<br />
<br />
"Could be, blue and beautiful. Let's go collect the toddlers." The resort had a day care service for toddlers, which meant we didn't have to worry what our young children were up to. It was definitely nice not to watch out for the toddlers and just relax.<br />
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It was a short drive across the island to my surprise. Jericho's eyes grew very big as we walked toward it. "Sammy, what is this?"<br />
<br />
"It's my surprise, Jericho. This houseboat can be our new home, if you want. I've brought the papers that you'll need to sign. A contract for this boat and another one to sell our home in the plains." I motioned toward the houseboat. "It's about a third the size of our house so I've arranged to put the furniture into storage if we do move. We won't have room for most of it."<br />
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"Oh Sammy, are you sure? We'll leave everything behind."<br />
<br />
"This holiday convinced me, this is the right thing for you. You've never been quite so relaxed and happy as you have been on this week. And Goby, Seahorse and Anemone will all be better off having an ocean to play in." I smiled at him. "Plus any other Strider children we might have over time. Last time I heard, 4 children wasn't nearly enough for you."<br />
<br />
Jericho pulled me into a tight hug. "Love, it's perfect. It might be a bit smaller than we are used to, but it's perfect. No wonder you've been a bit pleased with yourself lately."<br />
<br />
"Just think, any time you like, you can just dive into the water from the boat. We get tired of being here, we leave this dock and find a new one."<br />
<br />
He said quietly, "When it comes time to introduce our Striders to the Depths, to the Deepstrike clan, we can anchor nearby. It won't take days to do the journey." He gently squeezed my hand. "I wasn't looking forward to taking Goby to the Depths if it meant being away from you for a few days. Now it won't."<br />
<br />
I had to repress a shudder at the thought of Jericho being gone for more than a day. He is my soul mate, being away from him even for a few hours is always painful. "So, do you want to sign the papers?"<br />
<br />
"Definitely, I want to sign those papers, Sammy. I don't want to leave here. When can we move in?"<br />
<br />
"We can move in today, love. We don't have to go back to the plains, unless we want to visit." I handed Jericho the papers. He signed them and then we went off to officially submit the documents. Once the documents were in, I picked up the keys to our new home.<br />
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It was no time at all before the boat felt as much like home as our house in the plains had. Monica and Goby had to share one bedroom now but they didn't seem to mind.<br />
<br />
The toddlers took as much time and attention as they did before. Though there were times when the motion of the boat didn't suit them much.<br />
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"Jericho, are you sure about having the cribs out on deck?"<br />
<br />
He laughed, "What? Are you afraid that one of the babies could fall overboard and drown?"<br />
<br />
Damn, busted. Maybe someday I'll remember that Strider babies swim from birth. "When you put it that way, no. Still if they did fall in, could they could swim away and get lost?"<br />
<br />
Jericho smiled as he shook his head. "Very young Striders don't swim far unless they are following someone. But if they do get out of sight..." he paused and set Anemone down on the deck. He walked away a few paces then stopped and made this really odd sound. The closest I can describe it would be a cross between a gurgle and a cluck. Anemone immediately headed for Jer and Seahorse tried but the bars on the crib got in his way.<br />
<br />
"That sound travels a long way under water. And as you can see, they will respond to it immediately. It's an instinctive reaction while they are still very young. Goby is old enough that he wouldn't respond."<br />
<br />
I wonder if I'll ever stop finding out new things about Striders? If Jer is right and we live to 500, at some point I should know everything a land dweller can know about them.<br />
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Goby and Monica had to start at a new school. The curriculum was similar to their old school but they had to start over with making friends. They both joined after school clubs so they could spend time socialising.<br />
<br />
And Goby started taking advantage of our new home, swimming every day after school around the boat. Jericho would usually join him at some point and teach him about life in the sea.<br />
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As for me, I got a job in the local police department with no dramas. I had a new partner to get to know and I had a lot to learn about town as well. Still, they hired me for the same salary I'd had so it was all good.<br />
<br />
I should have known I wasn't the only one willing to shake things up a bit. Jericho was unusually tense when I got home.<br />
<br />
"What's up, love?"<br />
<br />
"You remember what a good time we had at the resort?" he replied.<br />
<br />
I had to laugh. I'd have to have a pretty horrible memory to have forgotten that already. "Yes, Jer. So?"<br />
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"So, we own the place now," he said.<br />
<br />
I blinked a few times as the questions tumbled through my head. "Why?" was the first one that came out.<br />
<br />
"It seemed like a nice challenge, something to keep me occupied. I can do a lot of the management over the phone. And well, we noticed a few things that could be improved while we were there."<br />
<br />
I hadn't really thought about how Jericho would spend his time while the toddlers were asleep or playing. The houseboat didn't really take the care and effort the house had.<br />
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"So, how much did this cost us?" was my next question.<br />
<br />
"Not much, love. It barely made a dent in our account. We still have plenty of cash if we need it at some point." He handed me a statement and we still had over 100,000 in the bank.<br />
<br />
"Do you know why so cheap?"<br />
<br />
"I think that the last owner was just sick of it. I checked the finances, it does clear a profit. Not much of a profit, mind you. Still, it's not losing money."<br />
<br />
I couldn't grumble too loudly. I just sprang a big surprise on Jericho, although I didn't do the final paperwork without his approval. "I guess we own a resort then."<br />
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"I've arranged for the first few improvements. I reviewed the comments people had been leaving and would you believe the primary complaint was that there was no pool?"<br />
<br />
"Not everyone likes salt water, Jer."<br />
<br />
"Well, it now has a small pool and I've been upgrading the food options as well."<br />
<br />
I pulled Jericho to me. "If it will help make you happy, then I'm glad." I lightly kissed his cheek. "Tell me, can I have a room cheap for a night?"<br />
<br />
One eyebrow went up. "Now why do you need a room, Mister?"<br />
<br />
"I want to take a special someone there and get up to some noisy fun." It was true that we had to be more circumspect on the boat. Goby and Monica could hear almost everything. "I hear the new manager of the place is really hot." I winked at Jer. "I've never had sex with a manager before."<br />
<br />
Jericho's eyes lit up. "I hear you have to work for his favours."<br />
<br />
"Work? Now what kind of work would he demand?"<br />
<br />
"Oh, an afternoon of tending the new bar should get you all the fun that you could want."<br />
<br />
"That room had better be really cheap if I have to tend bar for it."<br />
<br />
"The room is free and the manager will personally attend to your every whim."<br />
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The boat gently rocked me to sleep. I think that this was the best possible move we could have made.<br />
<br />
<br />
--- <br />
Author's note - departing from a tradition of Hi Mum, I'm returning to a previous Sam and family. Mostly because I've just installed Island Paradise and there is no Sam family better suited to exploring islands and water than Sam and his Seastrider mate Jericho. Jericho is a water dweller (not really a merman though to get him swimming in deep water properly he'll have to be one for Sims) whose native habitat is the sea.<br />
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Bonus Pics<br />
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Jericho and Sam each have taken Forever Young potion because Striders and their bond mates live to be 500 to 600 years old. Without this, they will be reaching adult far too soon.<br />
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Their new home from above.<br />
Needs a bit of work to get them more living space. The main rooms have big angles that means usable space is tiny.<br />
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The controls to use their home as an actual boat.<br />
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Striders should not need snorkels - must fix<br />
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This statue sits toward the edge of the world - it's way too high for your Sims to visit. Some decorations that EA do are very interesting.<br />
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I love the water taxis. Though any place I've ever visited with water taxis - they are slow and not fast boats.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-33714337603312249122013-03-26T21:38:00.000-07:002013-03-26T21:40:20.066-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (clone 69 - part 7 - Finale)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So, Sammy, how are Mr and Mrs Grant?</span></i><br />
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Mum, Ashley was the best possible thing I could have gotten out of going to University. She's adorable and she adores me. <br />
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"Better catch this honey, I'm going to blow you a kiss."<br />
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"Ashley, I treasure every kiss you give me. Have I told you lately how much I adore you?"<br />
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"Not for at least 5 minutes, honey."<br />
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"I've been slack. I adore you, Ashley Grant. I wish I could give the love of my life a proper honeymoon. I'm sorry we haven't the money to travel."<br />
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"Honestly, Sam. It doesn't matter. We have a home. We have enough money to get the baby what it will need. And I have you. That's what I really want."<br />
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"Let's not forget Berjes. He's been a great son since I adopted him."<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Wished for him from a wishing well, Sam.</span></i><br />
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Same difference really.<br />
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"I like Berjes. If he gets along with the baby, maybe he'll babysit if we go out for a night."<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, a new venue.</span></i><br />
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Yes, a coffeehouse just opened up and I've got the very first gig here.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well, good luck. You can certainly use the money.</span></i><br />
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I'm hitting this crowd up with everything I have. For once, there wasn't a freaking paparazzi on the stage when I was supposed to start. That's usually just so annoying that I'm off balance for the first hour.<br />
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I'd love to change the ice cream shop background but I haven't the cash to buy and set up my own stage props.<br />
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And let's not mention how lame the music gets. It drives me nuts but I can't turn it off.<br />
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I did the fire baton a few times and did not once set myself on fire.<br />
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That alone makes this a good performance for me.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Damn, Sammy, you have been working out. That has to take a lot of strength.</span></i><br />
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Not just strength, you have to develop enough flexibility. It's no been easy to get here.<br />
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A bit more patter, a lot more juggling, some more mime work.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Wow, Sammy, you still have an audience at nearly the end of the performance.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Plus they all seem very enthused. Cheers and hand waves at every table.</span></i><br />
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I'm glad. This is the best damned show I've ever given.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I can tell Sammy. It's been excellent.</span></i><br />
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"I'd like to thank you for being a fantastic audience. Good night everyone."<br />
<br />
"Excuse me, Sammy the Spectacular, I'd like to offer you a weekly gig."<br />
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"Really?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Thursday nights starting at 6 pm are all yours."<br />
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"Thank you, I'll be here."<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Congrats Sammy, you have a regular gig. That should make life a little easier.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Attack of the zombies? Looks a bit scary.</span></i><br />
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Are you kidding? All I have to do is walk away. He can't keep up at all.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Now might be a good time to prove that.</span></i><br />
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Okay, I walked inside. Zombie failed to stop me. Time for some food.<br />
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"Sammy, it's time."<br />
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"I'm eating, can't it wait?"<br />
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"Sammy, babies don't like to wait."<br />
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"Oh god, baby? You want the hospital?"<br />
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"Yes, honey. Now."<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Awww, it's a boy. Are you happy, Sam?</span></i><br />
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Of course I'm happy. Meet our new son, Larry.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy? Is that Berjes new room?</span></i><br />
<br />
He wouldn't want to share with the baby now, would he?<br />
<br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Yeah, but the colour scheme. Isn't that colour and that pattern a bit ... feminine?</span></i><br />
<br />
I got that for free. When Berjes gets home, we can find him something more suitable. Bedspread and wallpaper.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I'm sure he is pleased to not have to share with the new baby.</span></i><br />
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We didn't get much yet for the baby. I don't think it will need much beyond the crib and we are still a bit cash strapped.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">It's a cute crib and the baby does have a room to itself. That would be something.</span></i><br />
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"Hey adorable."<br />
<br />
"Hey handsome, what's up?"<br />
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"I was wondering if I could convince you to play a little. Go back to our Uni study breaks, so to speak."<br />
<br />
"Oh Sammy, stop. Any time you want to play, you can just ask."<br />
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The local karaoke joint had a SimFest. I decided to go and check out the competition in town.<br />
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The magician was godawful. She only performed a handful of tricks after I arrived and failed about half of them. The Fest had been going on for some time, I don't know if the other performers were better or not.<br />
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"I'd like a try on stage, if there is room in the lineup."<br />
<br />
"There's room. What's your act and stage name?"<br />
<br />
"I'm an acrobat. Sammy the Spectacular."<br />
<br />
"Just as soon as the magician is done, you're up. And at the rate she's going, it won't be long."<br />
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By the time I'd changed into my outfit, the magician was off the stage.<br />
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The audience didn't seem that thrilled by her. I was hoping she hadn't left them cold.<br />
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So I was pretty pleased to be greeted by a lot of applause. I launched straight into my usual array of tricks. Juggling, the fire baton.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Any accidents?</span></i><br />
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No, no, I did that on purpose.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy!</span></i><br />
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All right, I do still have problem with the fire baton. Good thing it's a flame retardant costume.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Your backside must nearly be flame proof as well.</span></i><br />
<br />
Sheesh, Mum.<br />
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At least the contortion stunts all went well.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Cami seemed quite impressed by the show, actually.</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNnA6ZWGgh7zbsdmaJuvUZFEAAzfOWCxEd4vJGuPljEjdzg6KYyzgnCeFRH7e7sjdZenCcHH130hNDVH2RJiHW_ehIHAuRyGYM9TE4wJNXKmNpMDyqUUpileRduMq8vqJU_sdxNaUPulk/s1600/Screenshot-592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNnA6ZWGgh7zbsdmaJuvUZFEAAzfOWCxEd4vJGuPljEjdzg6KYyzgnCeFRH7e7sjdZenCcHH130hNDVH2RJiHW_ehIHAuRyGYM9TE4wJNXKmNpMDyqUUpileRduMq8vqJU_sdxNaUPulk/s1600/Screenshot-592.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
"Thank you all, you've been a wonderful audience."<br />
<br />
"Let's all thank Sammy the Spectacular. Next up, Ronnie Rotgut with a few of your favourite songs."<br />
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Hey Mum, later that evening, I found that I'd won the SimFest.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well done, Sammy.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Berjes really is growing up well, Sammy.</span></i><br />
<br />
And he likes Ashley quite a lot. It's good for both of them, Ashley doesn't know many people in town. Berjes has always wanted a proper family so having a step-mom makes him much happier.<br />
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Well Mum, I guess it's time to say farewell. I have a lovely wife, 2 fine sons and my professional life is finally coming together well. You were right that I shouldn't have been pushing for luck, more work got me where I really wanted to be.<br />
<br />
<br />
---<br />
Note, under normal circumstances, I would have followed Sam to the top of the profession. Unfortunately, the save was corrupted by sending him to University with some mods not really ready. After he got home, the crashes were more and more frequent.<br />
<br />
So this comes to an end since I do have an older save that I can get Sam to the top of the profession without it crashing so much. But since that's before University, Ashley won't be there so that's why this story ends now.<br />
<br />
I think Sammy did hate being embarrassed on stage. I've never seen him stop and bellow at the world quite so regularly as this one did. Just about every performance, until the last couple after Ashley came into his life.<br />
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---<br />
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The look of shame because a trick failed. Poor Sammy.<br />
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Hadn't seen Sam try this stunt before. I have seen Shrimp try it a few times in a different game and he's still never done it. Always flat on the face.<br />
<br />PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-22510236400722103372013-03-13T04:58:00.001-07:002013-03-13T04:58:38.539-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (clone 69 - part 6)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeWH_l6lQc2AoRV44OGpOy2aPuoe2Tp_TdAq69HR-MowPNBDKDdxqJxtOrjXCTFJ0SwxL9ENENROeBx-HLyU6u_0ZTC1SlleuSYeREzepdq8m4C7YnTuzfcjF6wZ-4G8sOjS5_UFlIhM/s1600/Screenshot-478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeWH_l6lQc2AoRV44OGpOy2aPuoe2Tp_TdAq69HR-MowPNBDKDdxqJxtOrjXCTFJ0SwxL9ENENROeBx-HLyU6u_0ZTC1SlleuSYeREzepdq8m4C7YnTuzfcjF6wZ-4G8sOjS5_UFlIhM/s1600/Screenshot-478.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, what on earth is that thing?</i><br />
<br />
I've had a visit from a University mascot. They are desperate for students. Everyone in town is getting one of these introduction packs.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">It's doing a Stride of Pride, Sam. Why?</i><br />
<br />
Must be a mascot thing. Cause I have no idea.<br />
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Oh, the pack the mascot left has got goodies. New t-shirt, little pennant banner.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And your local paparazzi stopped by for a visit.</i><br />
<br />
She is telling me not to go to University. I'm the biggest scoop that she's found.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So, I bet you want to go.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdz-W7EcpIXdGUfkn15qwjIX-VMgOtVbVelFSCqUS0LPzQ2u9DQiY63Y9Gp4KrY5FBXwZLhaZ48ywnheXhMlt2-yM1f3H2xqBWimtC7Qztud-A6V6LRMpGqdeaMGlzMLQkRrtFdh_jCY/s1600/Screenshot-481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdz-W7EcpIXdGUfkn15qwjIX-VMgOtVbVelFSCqUS0LPzQ2u9DQiY63Y9Gp4KrY5FBXwZLhaZ48ywnheXhMlt2-yM1f3H2xqBWimtC7Qztud-A6V6LRMpGqdeaMGlzMLQkRrtFdh_jCY/s1600/Screenshot-481.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
You bet. You have been telling me that I need to work harder and stop expecting that Lady Luck will smile on me. So I took the aptitude test.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">How did you do?</i><br />
<br />
Not bad for business or physical. Got scholarship money to study either of those. Not good enough for anything else.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So?</i><br />
<br />
I'm going to spend a term to get some physical education. I think it could be good for me. The scholarship covers the cost entirely.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Good choice, given your profession. Acrobats do get pretty physical. So, the first decision is where to stay. What did you decide?</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrpbvhekvdCloONCvim0Bqo66HQlgpyLmCmiC-QUYBIomxCT3-KI9IH8x-lVplgc3h1LW3l_bzeRLiDHP4dhfbBiYCnAxjK2lvdguQokmFrv19cWcx8DAMt4I1HRlLcB-TUbeG6d3LWzQ/s1600/Screenshot-482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrpbvhekvdCloONCvim0Bqo66HQlgpyLmCmiC-QUYBIomxCT3-KI9IH8x-lVplgc3h1LW3l_bzeRLiDHP4dhfbBiYCnAxjK2lvdguQokmFrv19cWcx8DAMt4I1HRlLcB-TUbeG6d3LWzQ/s1600/Screenshot-482.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
Plain old dorm. Gives me a chance to meet a few new people, it's closer to my classes. I don't want to live in a frat house. I don't want to spend my scholarship money on a rental. So here are the other people assigned to this dorm.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well, the roommates are different. A fairy and a vampire?</i><br />
<br />
Couple of girls, a couple of guys. It should be fine, Mum.<br />
<br />
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You can see the outside is pretty plain. But the interior isn't nearly as bleak as what I thought a dorm would be.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0q4WT0c4Kqwe5R2xtoAG0pTzK8Gzf__R4HNkazEeR9owl_SgS7H4OCLgswkQ2hOts1BcH0Jz9EUcRGx_Mb1Lq8KxFkpvJRRoUlfJdoVWwIkCLazFKvp4RbHr-sUukjbcMWpxLhgg3Z14/s1600/Screenshot-483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0q4WT0c4Kqwe5R2xtoAG0pTzK8Gzf__R4HNkazEeR9owl_SgS7H4OCLgswkQ2hOts1BcH0Jz9EUcRGx_Mb1Lq8KxFkpvJRRoUlfJdoVWwIkCLazFKvp4RbHr-sUukjbcMWpxLhgg3Z14/s1600/Screenshot-483.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, studying? Isn't this move in day?</i><br />
<br />
I will work hard at this. No point in going to University if you won't study.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Some people think the whole point of University is partying and hanging out.</i><br />
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No, I don't think so. Besides, check out my study partner. Her name is Ashley.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">She's one of your dormies?</i><br />
<br />
She's one of the hottest chicks I've ever seen and she is one of the dormies.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Not bad, Sammy. Not bad at all.</i><br />
<br />
Perhaps my luck is changing at long last.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscf_eFEbu4RSdaLdYW7zwgHfo2TLlXPxNsX2dGtXVpWEZ_jwTIT-ie0OdmyngWmrbH053-MVFXvhiV2Q1J3CiErSrQ8PiW4Xw_26S-Gcw7tKcpJzz0SVdNJgLLxEOK9M85TF2fvV08F8/s1600/Screenshot-487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscf_eFEbu4RSdaLdYW7zwgHfo2TLlXPxNsX2dGtXVpWEZ_jwTIT-ie0OdmyngWmrbH053-MVFXvhiV2Q1J3CiErSrQ8PiW4Xw_26S-Gcw7tKcpJzz0SVdNJgLLxEOK9M85TF2fvV08F8/s1600/Screenshot-487.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sam Grant, are you forcing yourself on that poor girl? She doesn't look happy about that kiss.</i><br />
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I swear Mum, it wasn't like that. She just needed a moment to recover. Next thing I know, she's pulling me in for another big smooch.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">True, she does look happier about it now.</i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Still hanging out with that Ashley girl?</i><br />
<br />
Not only is she very attractive, Mum, but she's one of the top jocks at University. I think I'll fit in well with the jocks, so getting to know her should be a real bonus.<br />
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In fact, I feel a real connection with Ashley. Our first day on campus and not only are we friends but we had a fantastic first date.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Weren't you supposed to go to a Meet and Greet? Like talk to your professor and stuff?</i><br />
<br />
Ummm, well, I kind of got distracted.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I hope the Meet and Greet wasn't too important.</i><br />
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At this point, I don't care. Ashley is gorgeous and that's very important. Especially when she likes me too.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You've asked her to sleep with you?</i><br />
<br />
Huh, what? I was sleeping. What are you talking about?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Ashley is in your bed, Sam.</i><br />
<br />
I gave her the room key last night but I went to bed alone, Mum. If Ashley is here, she chose to sleep here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlh4Gy_Wy3H8GF031EqDOlrCIW_NsjjZJxvZ-UyN9sKR1mxheo2F1YQlxG39UUSSATOLrTDU5eoUb41CZxcQf9IUsgwmHyhT0bwhkG8ZYDoq5RxW5oiVMwVxMCOTb1DYtsYNYpPFSCltY/s1600/Screenshot-502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlh4Gy_Wy3H8GF031EqDOlrCIW_NsjjZJxvZ-UyN9sKR1mxheo2F1YQlxG39UUSSATOLrTDU5eoUb41CZxcQf9IUsgwmHyhT0bwhkG8ZYDoq5RxW5oiVMwVxMCOTb1DYtsYNYpPFSCltY/s1600/Screenshot-502.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I thought you were studying physical education, not medicine.</i><br />
<br />
Anatomy is an important part of both. I was given this and a text book for study purposes.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, I'm proud of you. You really are taking this course seriously.</i><br />
<br />
I want something I can be proud of. Making it through University would be good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD8iOVm8AgVhrJlPTeZWzrHJFZj76vP9r8Hx5rIb9aK-KBEsmlWKuwpTidnYLsw-E9JC7hOeznULNSqVZSrhrSgCuOci_KA1qfqmEwkoo_LtPjuHn9XCWjRW-ihI5ac4A3c9v0Owk6Xg/s1600/Screenshot-505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD8iOVm8AgVhrJlPTeZWzrHJFZj76vP9r8Hx5rIb9aK-KBEsmlWKuwpTidnYLsw-E9JC7hOeznULNSqVZSrhrSgCuOci_KA1qfqmEwkoo_LtPjuHn9XCWjRW-ihI5ac4A3c9v0Owk6Xg/s1600/Screenshot-505.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Study break, Sammy?</i><br />
<br />
Ashley said she wanted to have some fun. I was curious as to what she wanted.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">What did she want?</i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Oh, I see. Never mind. Her idea really?</i><br />
<br />
Yes, and it was the best study break ever.<br />
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Just in case you were wondering, I have been to all my classes and done all the work. It's not all about Ashley.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You're even awake, unlike most of your classmates.</i><br />
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I did finally give up and attend a kegger. I've been invited to a party every night. This place is party crazy.<br />
<br />
I stayed away from the keg, just got better acquainted with the hostess. I liked her but it didn't seem like a very exciting party.<br />
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So I decided to throw a kegger of my own and half the people who turned up decided it would be funny to come as zombies. Seriously? Zombies?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Is that Ashley holding you up for the keg stand? She must be a strong girl.</i><br />
<br />
I swear, Mum, she's perfect. Everything I could ever want, all in the one cute package.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">How did the party go?</i><br />
<br />
The keg went dry. The guests all complained. I don't throw parties, I didn't know.<br />
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My last few days as a student were a bit rough. I came down with a bug two days before finals. It was hard to drag myself to class.<br />
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Especially when your professor ignores your existence. Dude, we have questions back here. Listen to us.<br />
<br />
The worst part was that Ashley was staying her distance since she didn't want my germs. That was tough. No hugs, no kisses, no cuddles. And who wants to do hard work when you are sick?<br />
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I had two finals. The first one, I tanked. My head still hadn't cleared from the cold and I'd had a bad night of it.<br />
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The second one, I passed with flying colours. Got a C average for my first term. I wish I'd done better but maybe next term I will.<br />
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Ashley and I went out one last time, to go bowling.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You going to miss her?</i><br />
<br />
I will, but not for long if I can help it.<br />
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So we finally reached the end of term and everyone said good bye. I haven't enough credits to get my degree so I will have to come back next term. But it will be good to go home.<br />
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The very first thing I did after getting home was invite Ashley to stay for a visit.<br />
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She managed to catch a red-eye flight and arrived at about 9 the next morning. I was very happy that she made it.<br />
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And I lost very little time telling her how much I wanted her to stay in my life. Preferably as Mrs Grant.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">She said yes I assume?</i><br />
<br />
Yes, she did. No hesitation at all.<br />
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While I was gone, summer festival had started. I took Ashley over to see what that was like.<br />
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I found they tore down Cornelius's stage to make way for the new stuff. Now I'll have to find a new place to work in town.<br />
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Ashley tried a few things at the summer fest. She won the eating contest and learnt to skate.<br />
<br />
I actually tried to earn some cash but no one was paying attention to the acrobat.<br />
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Finally, the light was fading and I knew Berjes would be home from school.<br />
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"Berjes? I would like a word with you."<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"Man, these pancakes were in the fridge too long. Yuck. What do you want, Sam?"</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7S0scnUjFcktFZIzqkxDuvgYiWtBCBGKKS_7ayBAuIpgA8G2b-sLShTX9x-YG-f1IZdlOBEhfmbM3Lz5MRukCA3LjObNCnVPpOD4N4k5llZmpYtU7oBWywchyphenhyphensGhh66DfqPfF05hSuEg/s1600/Screenshot-540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7S0scnUjFcktFZIzqkxDuvgYiWtBCBGKKS_7ayBAuIpgA8G2b-sLShTX9x-YG-f1IZdlOBEhfmbM3Lz5MRukCA3LjObNCnVPpOD4N4k5llZmpYtU7oBWywchyphenhyphensGhh66DfqPfF05hSuEg/s1600/Screenshot-540.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
"I'd like you to meet Ashley. She's agreed to marry me. She's going to be your new Mum."<br />
<br />
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"I'm going to have a Mum? Like, we'll be a whole family?"</span></b><br />
<br />
"Yes, Berjes. We will be. You might even have some younger siblings soon."<br />
<br />
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"That's great news. I've always wanted a proper family."</span></b><br />
<br />
"I knew you were a bit disappointed that you only had me."<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"Well, it has been better than being stuck forever in a fountain. But this is better yet. Thanks Sam."</span></b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, isn't that house a bit small for a baby?</i><br />
<br />
What do you mean?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Trust me, Sammy. You need to spend your cash on expanding that place a bit.</i><br />
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Another day, another failed attempt at earning tips. I can't compete with the summer fest attractions. I'm going to have to find a new place to earn tips, not having any audience is ridiculous.<br />
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At least I have a gig tomorrow at a coffee shop. I hope that goes well.<br />
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Berjes used a friendship potion on Ashley. It worked well, they are best friends now.<br />
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Later that evening, Ashley and I exchanged wedding vows. Not a big fancy wedding but the poor girl has been sick the last few days.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, did I mention babies yet?</i><br />
<br />
Surely women get sick from things other than babies?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">At the rate you two head for bed, you will be seeing some soon.</i><br />
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Then I put a ring on Ashley's hand and sealed the deal.<br />
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Welcome home to the family, Mrs Grant.<br />
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It's not much but it's all ours.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, did I tell you?</i><br />
<br />
All right Mum. We had better prepare for a baby.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Or two.</i><br />
<br />
What?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Just saying, Sam. You never know.</i><br />
<br />
I hope you're wrong. One I think we can cope with. Two? I don't think so.<br />
---<br />
Bonus pics<br />
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Sam, sweetheart, are you studying or looking for dirty pictures?<br />
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Sammy's dorm room was not picked for the nice double bed.<br />
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Or the lovely fireplace either.<br />
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It was the closest room to the gym equipment. Though Sam was too distracted by Ashley to work out much.<br />
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The animators do well with things like poses with pool cues.<br />
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Sammy was a bit angry from time to time. His dormies take a hit from that.<br />
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Poor Sammy - his new wife is evil, just like his wishing well child.<br />
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Ashley is feeling ill and in the background - a sleeping stray cat.<br />
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Berjes does get some of the stuff he wants. He was the one that wanted bees, now he can tend them.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-4445886511007188082013-03-02T20:46:00.000-08:002013-03-02T20:46:06.987-08:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (clone 69 - part 5)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3YgLeygbqcGNnoEhGgPQ7iFvieObQzBeTvfy8DlnwvtaIXMvT-9wfHTf5EUk0Dk4Q2mp8VuRteuh0fI7VL2cLYOF-GOtuuFtQOBV502htznJiDB_AOlpmDKvI0qgkoc6Nof8pksjQsKU/s1600/Screenshot-219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3YgLeygbqcGNnoEhGgPQ7iFvieObQzBeTvfy8DlnwvtaIXMvT-9wfHTf5EUk0Dk4Q2mp8VuRteuh0fI7VL2cLYOF-GOtuuFtQOBV502htznJiDB_AOlpmDKvI0qgkoc6Nof8pksjQsKU/s640/Screenshot-219.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mum, why did this suddenly appear at my house?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">There are some interesting things you can learn to brew, Sammy</i><br />
<br />
Like what? Something that will help me make more friends?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">That is a possibility. Or maybe put you in touch with your warm furry side.</i><br />
<br />
Say what? Did you just say furry?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Never mind, just learn some potions. That's my Sammy.</i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So Sam, what's up?</i><br />
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Berjes wanted to explore this place. I'm hoping that I might just have convinced someone to come and chat with me.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Why look so glum then?</i><br />
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I'm beginning to think that she stood me up.<br />
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"Lovely Kalee, you came. I was beginning to get worried that you were still upset."<br />
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"Well, it did take me a few hours at home to get over the shock. You suddenly telling me you have a kid in school, that kind of put me off."<br />
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"So you good now?"<br />
<br />
"I am, Sam. It must be tough being a single Dad."<br />
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"Yes, it's not been easy. And I'm self employed as a mime, which isn't exactly the best paying career in town."<br />
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"Then why stick with it? Get a different job."<br />
<br />
"It was the only paying career I could find. I have to earn some money or we are going to have to sell our furniture to keep the roof over our heads."<br />
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"Poor Sam."<br />
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"Hi Sam. Thanks for bringing me, that was cool. Oh, ummm, hi?"<br />
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"Berjes, this is Kalee. Kalee, this is my son Berjes."<br />
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"Hi, Berjes, what was cool?"<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"I kept hearing fairies in there. I couldn't find any but I heard them."</b><br />
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"Sam tells me that you do ballet? Isn't that a bit unusual?"<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"Don't tell the other guys. The two of us guys doing ballet pretty much get our pick of parts. And we get to hang out with nearly all the girls in class."</b><br />
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"Hey, guys, it might be time to head toward the town centre. I'll need to set up the stage for today's performance soon."<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy! That doesn't look like setting up a stage.</i><br />
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I said soon, not immediately. I need to relax for a little.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Hey Sammy, look. You got a new paparazzi today.</i><br />
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Yet another idiot with a camera?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Is it just me or do they only send women to follow you around?</i><br />
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Doesn't matter. They are all idiots. Nearly time, I better check the stage and start the show.<br />
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"Well, now there's an interesting view. Isn't that a bit rude, Mr Grant?"<br />
<br />
"What? Who said that?"<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You are being paparazzi'd on stage again, Sammy. And that costume doesn't conceal much at close range, does it?</i><br />
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"Excuse me, but could you get off the stage? I'm trying to do a show here."<br />
<br />
"Excellent. I could use some more pictures for my story. Could you do that pose again?"<br />
<br />
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"GET OFF MY STAGE!"<br />
<br />
"Acrobat has hysterics on stage. Excellent headline, don't you think?"<br />
<br />
"GET THE HELL OFF MY STAGE! NOW!"<br />
<br />
"Acrobat shouts at reporter. Another good headline."<br />
<br />
"Do you want to be onstage while I juggle knifes? Torches?"<br />
<br />
"Acrobat threatens reporter with violence."<br />
<br />
"ARRGGGHHHH, OFF!"<br />
<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Another tiny audience, Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
It's more than I've had some nights. Kalee even stayed.<br />
<br />
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Damn, not off to the best start.<br />
<br />
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I'll do the fire act. That's always impressive.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Be careful Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
I got this, Mum. Seriously.<br />
<br />
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Ouch, ouch, ouch. Arse on fire. Arse on fire. Not good.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I thought you had this?</i><br />
<br />
Must have been wrong.<br />
<br />
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"All part of the show folks. Wasn't that spectacular?"<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"I do not know that guy on the stage. Never seen him before in my life."</b><br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I don't think you've fooled anyone, Sammy. Berjes can't even watch.</i><br />
<br />
I was hoping that I might get a permanent gig this time.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You'll have to work harder and do it right, Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">More fire? Sammy, are you mad?</i><br />
<br />
Fire impresses people. I want to impress them.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJR6P_NAgAJPBgkhwPCtR7TdMc51xA8pV45iwSKFHXvEzVvqwAoJHK4yU7njxtrhzmFfbexpv7CSWJYHUwi4EOXKwV78TWCivbn9kh3nShn5agiEFEyaG5-Z0glp4QX0b0ApPU-Nkm2U/s1600/Screenshot-252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJR6P_NAgAJPBgkhwPCtR7TdMc51xA8pV45iwSKFHXvEzVvqwAoJHK4yU7njxtrhzmFfbexpv7CSWJYHUwi4EOXKwV78TWCivbn9kh3nShn5agiEFEyaG5-Z0glp4QX0b0ApPU-Nkm2U/s640/Screenshot-252.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I gotta admit, Sammy. You have some nice moves with the torches.</i><br />
<br />
I have been practising. It's just those damned paparazzi on stage that keep putting me off my performance for awhile.<br />
<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And the audience does seem to be warming up to you finally.</i><br />
<br />
About time. I'm doing my very best out here.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-GlGYkvvNsDqQ2WkLrU438l2zR1Jw7Mtp01TF1jMaA1NtPFmLrmmzBFXFSRAbuksUEfyTex0tjHze4Ykv5ve2QAOX8bOw6Gon0tComYhgkFQU4zuX9aKjq4Y-JAYCEXAxQE3D1cGW8M/s1600/Screenshot-257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-GlGYkvvNsDqQ2WkLrU438l2zR1Jw7Mtp01TF1jMaA1NtPFmLrmmzBFXFSRAbuksUEfyTex0tjHze4Ykv5ve2QAOX8bOw6Gon0tComYhgkFQU4zuX9aKjq4Y-JAYCEXAxQE3D1cGW8M/s640/Screenshot-257.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Those are knives? They look more like swords.</i><br />
<br />
All for show, Mum. They are actually plastic and have no edge. Very safe to juggle but they look good.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">They do look good. And scary.</i><br />
<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, good news and bad news.</i><br />
<br />
What's the good news?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Your audience is enjoying the show.</i><br />
<br />
The bad?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Down to two people. You'll never get famous at this rate.</i><br />
<br />
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I always feel that I should throw in some mime bits, but I'm not sure the audience appreciates how difficult they are.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Doesn't look hard.</i><br />
<br />
You should try it sometime.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GIjclMFAGDkHzE2tuu4Vds7KvGmjamtFVhxOmjZHwO4b4rNq-_x-3CpRvIOZ6_KoOtYpsgxd1cJgcJQBB7JRRBVrzS0LiWvRumNILndzyWWB22FyZHlAX2cY1vrOuCsEwJrd9fVrGew/s1600/Screenshot-263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GIjclMFAGDkHzE2tuu4Vds7KvGmjamtFVhxOmjZHwO4b4rNq-_x-3CpRvIOZ6_KoOtYpsgxd1cJgcJQBB7JRRBVrzS0LiWvRumNILndzyWWB22FyZHlAX2cY1vrOuCsEwJrd9fVrGew/s640/Screenshot-263.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">What's the matter, Sammy?</i><br />
<br />
Cornelius still won't give me a permanent gig. I have to audition, again.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Poor Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
I HATE MY LIFE!<br />
<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Sam is not entirely hopeless as a dad. He got me this cool jelly bean bush as a pre-birthday present.</b><br />
<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">He is the most disgusting person to live with though. I don't think he knows what a mop or sponge is!</b><br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Poor Berjes.</i><br />
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I think I'll try a jelly bean.<br />
<br />
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This feels a bit odd.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You're blue, Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
Blue? Like that dude, Jericho?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Pretty much. I don't know how long you will stay that colour either.</i><br />
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"Merlot, is that you? What the hell happened to you?"<br />
<br />
"Dude, I have no idea. I went to sleep last night and everything was normal. Woke up this morning and I'm purple with wings. Why are you suddenly blue?"<br />
<br />
"Interesting side effect of eating a jelly bean from this plant over here. I think I'll go back to normal soon."<br />
<br />
"I don't think I'm ever going back. Wings? And I can't fly."<br />
<br />
"Give that one time, maybe you will in another day or two. At any rate, thanks for coming over. I appreciate a bit of company."<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"I wish, I wish, I wish - I had a real family."</b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Not happy with Sam?</i><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"Well, he's not that bad but I can hope for better."</b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And so it was that our evil fountain spawn managed to grow to teen. Go Berjes.</i><br />
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---<br />
Bonus pics<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5H16pTol99qb6F9-KwllUXaj9p0ERsCSv3oaH3crnzPnTAAxrTDvZvHm92Y3fWA0HkghXmQyYdoeNkyshcMWfIbT8FVBhc6KWCAu3EQXqqvt6s70kr-fsfJtm7nEjXNj3QJqtTJkbEoA/s1600/Screenshot-220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5H16pTol99qb6F9-KwllUXaj9p0ERsCSv3oaH3crnzPnTAAxrTDvZvHm92Y3fWA0HkghXmQyYdoeNkyshcMWfIbT8FVBhc6KWCAu3EQXqqvt6s70kr-fsfJtm7nEjXNj3QJqtTJkbEoA/s400/Screenshot-220.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Stray dog and bird interacting.<br />
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Lily Darkshore from Avanis<br />
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Jericho and Cami's simself jumped into marriage quickly.<br />
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But they do seem to be doing very nicely as a couple. Randomly flirting it up.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu5NRxKrkKY5NZz8k02EmunbFkbJ4g7jOlMIxxOmNMcTnSCWirC6ksgOJYGrw60BXgQiSc7wBAm5LavoZnHZXckdk-dFp6VsGWE4XsczlAAByAx2uNXdYgDglSeszgYA_Hsw6fMXm5Ip4/s1600/Screenshot-273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu5NRxKrkKY5NZz8k02EmunbFkbJ4g7jOlMIxxOmNMcTnSCWirC6ksgOJYGrw60BXgQiSc7wBAm5LavoZnHZXckdk-dFp6VsGWE4XsczlAAByAx2uNXdYgDglSeszgYA_Hsw6fMXm5Ip4/s400/Screenshot-273.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
So I gave them an instant baby which they are both totally ignoring.<br />
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I have no idea why she was glowing while playing with Berjes dollhouse. Given I had recently installed Supernatural, I wasn't sure if I wanted to know.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-78821263878295383692012-12-14T22:57:00.000-08:002012-12-14T22:57:49.605-08:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (clone 69 - part 4)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sam, why are you still dressed in costume?</i><br />
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After that disaster of a show, I really needed a drink and to relax. [hic] Didn't want to go home and change first. [hic] Bar's good place to relax. [hic]<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And drink quite a lot, apparently.</i><br />
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Only a couple, Mum. [hic] Bastard Merlot is a pool shark though. He's winning. [hic]<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You might be a bit drunk to play, Sammy. How many have you had?</i><br />
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Nah. That can't be it. Only had 3, maybe 4. Mmm, maybe 5. Bastard Merlot. He got married the other day and didn't even invite me to the wedding.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Maybe because you hit on him once. Remember?</i><br />
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Oh, yeah, that's right.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWsM03xbFz84q7__oBuATgUH9cQb6t3kZchyphenhyphenc2JWxw1tm-ZiIj2cyWj-UaZ8lZeK9pHm5vteZZQH177t1UZG9p8GL0f5-wySqjYoAe55T4SDKoy5KOa_vqu6k5sCPy0KCzkvwkFlt_PI/s1600/Screenshot-186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWsM03xbFz84q7__oBuATgUH9cQb6t3kZchyphenhyphenc2JWxw1tm-ZiIj2cyWj-UaZ8lZeK9pHm5vteZZQH177t1UZG9p8GL0f5-wySqjYoAe55T4SDKoy5KOa_vqu6k5sCPy0KCzkvwkFlt_PI/s640/Screenshot-186.jpg" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy! You brought Berjes to the bar?</i><br />
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What? What's wrong with that?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well, if you are going to be drinking too much, you shouldn't be bringing the boy along. He'll learn bad habits.</i><br />
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He's not drinking!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">True, he seems to be playing a game with Thea. Might be the most fun the poor kid has ever had.</i><br />
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Give me a break. I'm doing the best I can.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>--<br />
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Oh Mum, I have such a headache this morning. There's too much sun, too much heat, too much of everything.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Then don't drink so much, Sammy. You were asking for it. Any more and you would have been dancing on the tables.</i><br />
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URGHHHH! I HATE MY LIFE!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well this time it's not your fault, Sammy. You didn't do anything to deserve a broken sink on top of that hangover.</i><br />
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I hate cleaning at the best of times. My head hurts and now I'm drenched because of a broken sink.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Poor Sammy. It could be worse.</i><br />
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I really hate to think what that might mean. Exactly how much worse can things get?<br />
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Please, please, wishing well. Grant me wealth, or happiness, or something. Anything!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well? Did it do anything for you this time?</i><br />
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I got to see pretty sparkly lights but it doesn't seem to have helped. I'm not happier or wealthier.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Somehow I think that the wishing well is just not going to ever be that helpful, Sammy. You have to work harder.</i><br />
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Right, fine, I'll work harder. Does this look hard enough for you?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I must admit, you do seem to be working there.</i><br />
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I thought I was in better shape. After all, I do acrobatic stuff on stage as well as all that juggling and mime work. But this hurts!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">They say, no pain, no gain.</i><br />
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Grrrr.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6XYkmYOApjcWSK-XmGfTndnni3wtjZH_CGWWMyvsKqtyyU7tzOOcYVhmrYzRWeIJMdEVUvTPeJbiZOcTvEJA6iTeOJh9HZpxhY2A0Zrg270uW63a8HwVSSXlSoEJO1TXgO4IJyjDrMk/s1600/Screenshot-195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6XYkmYOApjcWSK-XmGfTndnni3wtjZH_CGWWMyvsKqtyyU7tzOOcYVhmrYzRWeIJMdEVUvTPeJbiZOcTvEJA6iTeOJh9HZpxhY2A0Zrg270uW63a8HwVSSXlSoEJO1TXgO4IJyjDrMk/s640/Screenshot-195.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
Wait! What is <strong>that</strong> picture doing there? Can't a man have any time to himself, ever?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sorry, Sammy, but no. You have to allow shower pics. Always.</i><br />
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Did you know only an hour in the gym and even I can't stand my own company? Talk about sweating it out.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Given the natural state of your house, that's pretty impressive.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16L0Ik1C4kRxihRwnyKGtnKZRj_MberHiVS7MGJjRQ4VtYawcaRmfJ0uXbK8GaxrlKWZHtkZy-3RyS-Uub92t_GJ7N_lcuS4SmI5OF7cP0t_JqcXLBN0Iq7v5TESwQ8-lkLG2nbN4opg/s1600/Screenshot-199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16L0Ik1C4kRxihRwnyKGtnKZRj_MberHiVS7MGJjRQ4VtYawcaRmfJ0uXbK8GaxrlKWZHtkZy-3RyS-Uub92t_GJ7N_lcuS4SmI5OF7cP0t_JqcXLBN0Iq7v5TESwQ8-lkLG2nbN4opg/s640/Screenshot-199.jpg" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Wandering around town after your latest round of earning tips? Good idea, you need to talk to people.</i><br />
<br />
Hello lovely lady. My name is Sam. I was wondering if a pretty girl like you had any plans for the evening?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Oh, Sammy, that's kaleeko. I'm not sure how this is going to go.</i><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #274e13;">Hello Sam. My name is Kalee. I don't have any particular plans for the evening. You have anything in mind?</b><br />
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I hear that there is a lovely view from the restaurant at the edge of the desert. Would you care to help me check?<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #274e13;">That place is expensive with a capital E. I can't afford to breathe the air there.</b><br />
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Don't fret, pretty Kalee. It will be my treat. I must go home and change, meet you there at 7?<br />
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Oh, Sam. This place is gorgeous.</span></b><br />
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Not nearly as pretty as my date. You are looking radiant, my dear Kalee.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #274e13;">I think that's just the light. I'm not that special.</span></b><br />
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Kalee, how can you say that? You're such a lovely lady.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You finally scored a date. Well done, Sammy. But try not to lay it on so thick?</i><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #274e13;">Stop, please.</b><br />
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You are by far the most beautiful person I've ever taken to dinner.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I told you not to lay it on so thick. She's the only person you've ever taken to dinner.</i><br />
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Oh Sam, that was a wonderful dinner. What should we do next?</span></b><br />
<br />
Well, we could go see a movie. I wonder what's on? [loud buzz from pocket] Let me just check this message.<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Well? Going to a movie sounds quite nice.</span></b><br />
<br />
I don't suppose you happen to want to see a ballet recital at the elementary school?<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #274e13;">What? Why would I want to do that?</b><br />
<br />
My ... adopted... son is having a recital tonight. He didn't warn me until just now.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #274e13;">Son? Goodbye Sam. Don't call me and I won't call you.</b><br />
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Oh god. And we were doing so well until then.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Yeah, well, bringing up that you have a child in the middle of a date wasn't the best strategy, was it?</i><br />
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Berjes, that was a pretty good show. But why on earth did you sign up for ballet and not scouting?<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Are you kidding? Scouting requires like 50 'be good' oaths. No way am I falling for that.</b><br />
<br />
So ballet?<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">We did Hamlet. Everyone dies. Now that's a cool after school activity.</b><br />
<br />
Everybody dies and that makes it cool?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, he is an evil child. That has to show up every once in awhile.</i><br />
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We have worked out an agreement. Berjes tidies while I cook.<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">I didn't have much choice. If I left the cleaning to Sam, the piles of filth would be taller than me.</b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I'm glad to see the two of you can work together. Since you are rather stuck with each other.</i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy! Practicing again?</i><br />
<br />
Yeah, if I don't earn some money, we won't keep that pathetic tiny house much longer.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Those look awfully big. Are they heavy?</i><br />
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Not really, why?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Just thinking about the headache you'd get from one of those bouncing off your noggin.</i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, be careful. I don't want you setting your bum on fire again.</i><br />
<br />
No, Mum, I got this. And I think she might just be ready to give me a big tip.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So? A lot of money?</i><br />
<br />
No, she said to stop playing with fire. Not the kind of tip I need.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Decided to hit the gym?</i><br />
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I wish they had punching bags. I could really use something that I could physically hit now.<br />
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Going to the gym was a good idea. I can really work off my frustrations here.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You are looking much calmer, Sammy.</i><br />
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I'm feeling better too.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">What about Berjes?</i><br />
<br />
That kid doesn't need me. He does fine on his own.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Can you believe how much homework they are giving us?</b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: purple;">No, we'll be here till we're teens.</b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Can you stay and play after we're done?</b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: purple;">Maybe, whatcha got?</b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">I have a new dollhouse.</b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: purple;">Dollhouse? That's for girls!</b><br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">I like to pretend I'm a monster and knock everything down. Then stomp around making it shake like there's an earthquake.</b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: purple;">Ok, now that sounds cool.</b><br />
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Oh, yuck, this is going off!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You're the one who grabbed food from the fridge. You could have cooked something.</i><br />
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To hell with it. I'm starving.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Green smoke doesn't worry you?</i><br />
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That which does not kill me, will make me stronger.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">It's way safer to stick with cereal. Unless the food is just coming off the stove.</b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Poor Berjes. I'm sure he would have staying in the magic fountain if given a choice.</i><br />
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-- <br />
bonus pics<br />
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I forget why I sent Sam to the cemetery.<br />
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A couple of Simselves having a chat.<br />
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So pretty<br />
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Once is never enough.<br />
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Sam is playing with alchemy - hoping he'll be a self made were someday.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-8260906935657624402012-10-23T05:31:00.000-07:002012-10-23T05:55:30.946-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (Clone 69 - Part 3)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One thing I have to admit about Lucky Palms, the desert is a beautiful place at both sunset,<br />
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and sunrise. It's almost overwhelming. The lighting is just about magic.<br />
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Sigh, I just wish I could say the same about my life.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Still not having luck, Sammy?</i><br />
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None, Mum, just no luck at all.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So, wha'cha up to Sammy? I don't think I recognise that place.</i><br />
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Eh, decided to pop into the library. I'd heard they had some good self help books on making friends and meeting people. I looked at the bookstore first but, my god, those things are freaking expensive.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Actually, looks like you are doing well on the whole meeting people thing. Two Simselves in one day.</i><br />
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Well, I did get to say hi to a couple of attractive ladies that happened to be in the library. Kalee and Thea.<br />
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Mum, what did you mean by Simself? I don't understand?<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Never mind, Sammy. You got to meet people. That's what's important. Did you like them?</span></i><br />
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Neither of them stayed for more than a 'hello'. So I don't know if I like them or not.<br />
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I did get a chance to start reading one of those books.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Do you think it did you any good?</i><br />
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Just gave me a splitting headache and that was only the introduction. I might have died if I'd tried to read more than a chapter.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, reading never killed anyone.</span></i><br />
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Wanna bet?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I see you brought Berjes along to the library.</i><br />
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I thought he'd like a change from our little tiny place.<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">"Come on, computer, do SOMETHING. DO ANYTHING!" [Click] [Click]</span></b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Doesn't sound like it's going well.</i><br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">[Sigh] "Homework is the most excitement I've had all day."</span></b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy!</i><br />
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No, Mum, I promise. I will get him something at home. He's actually been quite a good kid, really. He even had me sign a permission slip for after school activities. <br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Still practicing your mime routine?</span></i><br />
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Man has to eat and keep a roof over his head. While it's not exactly a steady income but it's still the best thing I can find.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I hate to say this but it might work better if you didn't look so cross.</i><br />
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Grrrr!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And relaxing too, I see.</i><br />
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There has to be some benefits to not having a proper job. Being able to practice golf when no one is around is one of them.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy! That's a different outfit. Not nearly as - disturbing - as the first.</i><br />
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Yeah, Cornelius admitted that the first get up was meant to discourage people. This one is what you get to wear if he'll actually let you onstage.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So he really will let you onstage?</i><br />
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Yes, I have a show later tonight.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Look at you, spinning fire around. Umm, are you sure you want to do that? It looks dangerous, Sam.</i><br />
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It will be fine Mum. And I'm sure the crowds will love it.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Crowds? You don't have a single soul watching.</i><br />
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Well, it is the middle of the day. Everyone is off working. I'm sure they'll turn up for the show.<br />
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So, I'm still not happy with this entertainer thing but it is exciting to know that I'll be on the stage soon.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">There still doesn't seem to be much of a crowd waiting.</i><br />
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I'm way early. I'm sure we'll have some soon, Mum. Very soon. But I need to go check the stage.<br />
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"Oi! Off the stage."<br />
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"I have permission to take pictures of the performers tonight. I asked Cornelius."<br />
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"You didn't ask me. Get off!"<br />
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"I will not. I'm here to talk pictures for the paper and here I will stay."<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy! Sammy? Are you ok?</i><br />
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NO! Ow! No! That stupid photographer put me off. I can't even do a bit of simple juggling right.<br />
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Damn it, damn it, damn it! Will none of these routines work right? Not even the simplest thing is going right.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Oh, Sammy. Baby. I wish I could help.</i><br />
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I HATE MY LIFE!<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sam? This isn't the time for that. You are on stage, trying to earn money.</i><br />
<br />
But seriously, I hate it. Everything worked fine in practice and nothing at all is working now. I can't even manage the stupid "Pull the rope" thing. And I have to keep trying for at least another hour!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">So, Sammy, how did it go?</i><br />
<br />
I survived. I got paid. I took a bow and one whole person applauded. How do you think it went.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well, it could have been worse. I don't think you were even seriously burnt.</i><br />
<br />
Is that supposed to be comforting, Mum? Cause, that was a fail.<br />
<br />
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I think I'm going to take another shot at a lucky coin. I'm sure that I can get it if I just reach a little further.<br />
<br />
[splash]<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy? I hate to tell you this but the paparazzi were right there.</i><br />
<br />
Oh god, that seriously doesn't bode well. <br />
<br />
---<br />
Bonus pics.<br />
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Berjes really is a good student. He always does his homework without any prompting at all.<br />
<br />
Partly because in the early days, there really was nothing better for him to do but eventually he had things and still did homework first.<br />
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Sammy meets Merlot. They do hit it off, but it will be a little before this works it's way into the story.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-68341172799635111092012-10-16T04:35:00.000-07:002012-10-22T06:12:26.277-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (Clone 69 - Part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Salad, Sam? That is so totally healthy.</i><br />
<br />
It's not that it's healthy. It is that I can't afford anything better tonight. First thing in the morning, I'm going job hunting.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Good luck with that. I hear that times are tough.</i><br />
<br />
I'm not picky, I just need cash.<br />
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"Hey, my name is Sam. I was wondering if you heard of any jobs going in town? I've been lots of places already and no luck."<br />
<br />
"Hi Sam, I'm Cornelius. I have a gig for a mime as a warm up act at my stage in the park. You have to be in good condition though."<br />
<br />
"I'm in pretty good shape but a mime? I'm not interested in that. I want a real job. Regular hours and regular pay."<br />
<br />
"Well, good luck looking for other jobs. Just remember me if you don't find anything."<br />
<br />
"Just curious, why does your mime have to be in good shape?"<br />
<br />
"They need to dodge vegetables thrown on the stage. Hopefully there is nothing left for the audience to throw by the time the main act gets on stage."<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sounds like an exciting career, Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
That sounds painful. I think I'd rather starve first.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Didn't you say just last night that you weren't picky, Sam?</i><br />
<br />
Grrrrrr.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, are you doing what I think you're doing?</i><br />
<br />
Mum, I tried everywhere. The fire station is volunteers only. The police have plenty of officers. The hospital has more staff than patients. The science lab said I could be a test subject but they seemed to think I'd do it for free. Every place that I tried had no paying jobs.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And so?</i><br />
<br />
Being a mime was the only job offer I had. Even if dodging vegetables does not sound like my idea of fun. So I thought I'd better practice a bit.<br />
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I wonder, does this looks as stupid as I think it looks?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You are doing splendidly, Sammy.</i><br />
<br />
I don't think I can count on you as unbiased, Mum. I'm sure that this looks really dumb.<br />
<br />
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I ... hate ... my ... life! HATE IT! Nothing is going right. I have a tiny hovel. I have a rotten job. I have a son who thinks I'm a loser.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I hate to say this Sam, but Berjes may have a point. Given why you hate your life, can you say you aren't?</i><br />
<br />
Just a few set backs. That's all. I'll get it together soon, you'll see.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Oh, Sammy. [snicker] What on earth is that supposed to be?</i><br />
<br />
Apparently, being a mime wasn't degrading enough. This is the official outfit and the makeup I'm supposed to wear. Cornelius said I'd have to practice a few days before I was ready for the stage.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Poor Sam.</i><br />
<br />
Have I mentioned that I hate my life lately?<br />
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"Do you have any idea what that's supposed to be, dear?"<br />
<br />
"Not sure. Do you think if we give him some money, he'll leave us alone?"<br />
<br />
"Don't encourage it, dear. We'll never be rid of it if we put money in the jar."<br />
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I'm trying really hard. Why aren't they more appreciative?<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Trying hard doesn't mean you're worth watching, Sammy.</i><br />
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"Watching that new mime is like watching a train wreck. You know it will end badly but you just can't look away."<br />
<br />
"I'm glad you warned me. If he's on the bill for the next show, we'll have to find something else to do that day."<br />
<br />
Sheesh, it can't be that bad, can it? And just because mimes don't talk, that doesn't mean we can't hear!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, the casino? Again? What are you thinking?</i><br />
<br />
Mum, I have to get lucky sometime.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Casinos make their millions from people who believe exactly that, Sammy.</i><br />
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Grrr, give me some money back.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">If you get money that way, the security guys are going to take it off you. Kicking the machine is definitely not allowed.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXB-RK-mo0_SmFL8IDv9HiXacA3FQjIXvWM7vjqKkrkfNT-wKI5xlM5IJrs0UxxfZNsVK_i19jOXm9PFjQdBoCVt-BWxbNK8_IjchqGiU86jaaQbEwdW1aRiEb5GZJFX81sehAF_GuKM/s1600/Screenshot-175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXB-RK-mo0_SmFL8IDv9HiXacA3FQjIXvWM7vjqKkrkfNT-wKI5xlM5IJrs0UxxfZNsVK_i19jOXm9PFjQdBoCVt-BWxbNK8_IjchqGiU86jaaQbEwdW1aRiEb5GZJFX81sehAF_GuKM/s640/Screenshot-175.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Maybe the tables will work better for me.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">If you are looking for a quicker way to lose money, I'm sure that's true.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6iDt3nfNUi-qn0sMyZbz3m9z2k6y4TWA6h8hgnsvQr5KomeU7us6M3HjGeryga2cAoBYGlRI-iuMgg7ZvhkXVRfwxg-QYTVBMJBiTzpSdZGf-WYBnfHjxJ5RsBRn4o9Mm7nWZqaufSg/s1600/Screenshot-178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6iDt3nfNUi-qn0sMyZbz3m9z2k6y4TWA6h8hgnsvQr5KomeU7us6M3HjGeryga2cAoBYGlRI-iuMgg7ZvhkXVRfwxg-QYTVBMJBiTzpSdZGf-WYBnfHjxJ5RsBRn4o9Mm7nWZqaufSg/s640/Screenshot-178.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Then again, maybe not. That was a lot of money for our household.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Poor Sam. Going to give it up now?</i><br />
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My luck has to change sometime.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUEKd7qTm6YM71lKSxr23_wboTOGo6mQoKrlap5lel5lgMaPTczE07L4E3v1c2jjfZ921k7GdSYG5nTeg9Jjx36xhqXMis_pObCtSDLtg1Xsvl1D8A9UqwLFMoo0oIG_TFUls8fI4QLo/s1600/Screenshot-179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUEKd7qTm6YM71lKSxr23_wboTOGo6mQoKrlap5lel5lgMaPTczE07L4E3v1c2jjfZ921k7GdSYG5nTeg9Jjx36xhqXMis_pObCtSDLtg1Xsvl1D8A9UqwLFMoo0oIG_TFUls8fI4QLo/s640/Screenshot-179.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Not looking like a meal made by someone with tons of money.</i><br />
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You have something against mac and cheese. Very yummy this.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And cheap, Sammy. Very cheap.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uDwDSNczFiW0uCiZ8hpPxcPuQGOHek_N7B6yPr2B0leFgemkn7Bm3romEa7NOlvoDbq-56KaxEvhGSOhH0TJYg79H_U8ho2GuB5_tQfEmMJZ2uwyDUHpMhf_5D-DR_dVL2QJ62-vOF8/s1600/Screenshot-180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uDwDSNczFiW0uCiZ8hpPxcPuQGOHek_N7B6yPr2B0leFgemkn7Bm3romEa7NOlvoDbq-56KaxEvhGSOhH0TJYg79H_U8ho2GuB5_tQfEmMJZ2uwyDUHpMhf_5D-DR_dVL2QJ62-vOF8/s640/Screenshot-180.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
"Well, Berjes, how was the first day of school?"<br />
<br />
"It was ok, I guess. Some of the kids are all right. Teacher is a loser, like you."<br />
<br />
"Berjes!"<br />
<br />
"Well, at least mac and cheese is a better dinner than salad, Sam. Does this mean you have a good job?" he dug into his bowl with a will.<br />
<br />
"I have a job, yes. Did the teacher give you homework?"<br />
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Berjes nodded. "Yes, and I've finished it."<br />
<br />
"That's good."<br />
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He scowled at me. "Is there anything else to do here? You have no tv, a crappy radio that only gets an oldies station, no books, nothing. I had to do my homework or be bored out of my skull."<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I have to agree with the kid, Sam. You really aren't prepared for a child of his age, there is nothing to do.</i><br />
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I know. Guess I'll have to do something about that.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-76753363394333349642012-10-06T03:49:00.002-07:002012-10-22T06:11:01.757-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (Clone 69 - Part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiya51_Bdg_Ymhb1ru-_xI14n2hy-nLyHq1YYUY5qWvz5urS_JWnBvSREhOzyZfNGy7QVKYmzE5icOdEqgWB5IuBe2Bh7dNl0OwQDjAWzjsg3RYuf64Lw1gkZPORW9gw5UAQdVbZFEYzpU/s1600/Screenshot-110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiya51_Bdg_Ymhb1ru-_xI14n2hy-nLyHq1YYUY5qWvz5urS_JWnBvSREhOzyZfNGy7QVKYmzE5icOdEqgWB5IuBe2Bh7dNl0OwQDjAWzjsg3RYuf64Lw1gkZPORW9gw5UAQdVbZFEYzpU/s640/Screenshot-110.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Well, Mum, I've moved into a new home in a place called Lucky Palms.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Congrats on the move. I'm sure you’ll be happy in your new home.</i><br />
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So far, it doesn't seem that lucky to me. This tiny shack was all I could afford and it barely has any furniture.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000;">Oh Sam, maybe that's not what's lucky about Lucky Palms. You do have to give a new place a chance.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwd7PWsCNdK9o6eVi86dZlKnMq-yPwTTiP6PcS-_iHqc8y5waAFWTrBcx_LUZNj7A-wg4Pslz4Tax1VNWoAyMOzRCi72EsD4lp4v6qeK-q7n5TB1C21pAWnmyksKHJYQGrAcbvjYl9L7Q/s1600/Screenshot-113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwd7PWsCNdK9o6eVi86dZlKnMq-yPwTTiP6PcS-_iHqc8y5waAFWTrBcx_LUZNj7A-wg4Pslz4Tax1VNWoAyMOzRCi72EsD4lp4v6qeK-q7n5TB1C21pAWnmyksKHJYQGrAcbvjYl9L7Q/s640/Screenshot-113.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Well, I do live next to a public garden. So I had the chance to rummage around for food.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">That seems pretty lucky.</i><br />
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Are you kidding? I don't have money to buy groceries! I can't afford a burger at a diner. I<b> have</b> to forage for a few vegetables to survive on. At least there was some things ripe enough to pick or I might have to go hungry for a few days.<br />
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After finding something I could eat from the garden. I went for a long walk around town. Guess what Mum, I found a casino here.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammy, weren't you complaining about money just a few minutes ago? This doesn't seem like such a good idea to me.</i><br />
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Mum, it has to be ok. Surely I'll win enough to buy a new home. Or at least some good furniture.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezpDsXQ46tHy9WNVGcrgtOeyIDs2xp1k5ODHl93pR6QgGn59LWTSvMKVdmKoRj7GGxdSTGcH3oLaftdD_agrswKl-GK7igW3J3RRuGTQWZN25wX7llpoFPBJHPi3bZBKebzkgB1ltK04/s1600/Screenshot-130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezpDsXQ46tHy9WNVGcrgtOeyIDs2xp1k5ODHl93pR6QgGn59LWTSvMKVdmKoRj7GGxdSTGcH3oLaftdD_agrswKl-GK7igW3J3RRuGTQWZN25wX7llpoFPBJHPi3bZBKebzkgB1ltK04/s640/Screenshot-130.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Look, money! Lovely lovely money.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">I'll be damned, Sam. You did win.</i><br />
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Umm, I might have just pushed the machine a few times to convince it to give me some.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Ah, cheating. Sam Grant, I expect better of you.</i><br />
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But, I want out of that dump they sold me as a house. Mind you, this wasn't nearly enough money to do me much good. And I spent most of it trying to win more.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Still, Sam. Cheating is going to catch up with you.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J90TcDG1d6_5hE4D0evQn-YsPaDh3H4pwqqPrQpNdgcYgcYQx3VEUslSoQhJceGp-n7Ozwf9-PA335-pHwN7M2IdysxaCa6TEq-rSJecFmH3Hn-c647TUdzE2ytvvB2NQTLIImz37h4/s1600/Screenshot-132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J90TcDG1d6_5hE4D0evQn-YsPaDh3H4pwqqPrQpNdgcYgcYQx3VEUslSoQhJceGp-n7Ozwf9-PA335-pHwN7M2IdysxaCa6TEq-rSJecFmH3Hn-c647TUdzE2ytvvB2NQTLIImz37h4/s640/Screenshot-132.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">SAM GRANT! What do you think you are doing?</i><br />
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Me? Nothing Mum. Just chilling by the wishing well.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sammmm! You are up to something, I can tell.</i><br />
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Ok, I thought I'd get some coins from the wishing well. I still need money, the payout at the casino wasn't that great. Most of it went back into the machine.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">You better watch it. Bad actions can backfire.</i><br />
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Mum, no one is going to miss a few coins. It's not a big deal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0HMk97WJs8pYkurdfGL6M4fbGdio9DJ6-v-ZsXYJFXzReyPyDlIg5NmJss377bsTL4BhmiWDRHt4cr6V6Tg62KU08ACb4In-ZC7CoQryCMnAEi4j1Xv5xqXcargRV73nZTmcAMQod-k/s1600/Screenshot-133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0HMk97WJs8pYkurdfGL6M4fbGdio9DJ6-v-ZsXYJFXzReyPyDlIg5NmJss377bsTL4BhmiWDRHt4cr6V6Tg62KU08ACb4In-ZC7CoQryCMnAEi4j1Xv5xqXcargRV73nZTmcAMQod-k/s640/Screenshot-133.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Maybe while I'm at the wishing well, I'll make a wish or two. This place needs to live up to the "Lucky" name.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Well, good luck with that.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUZ-MQg2OeA1qsSnuAhDNbaik1HTLlBkm969m8WeWsrRRBYlzZNYhZaBrkndSD00MBi6effWv7wE-AbQ2R-zr1qxLeJcjdC_c6s2HymuClRGhi-VBxkCCJGuZphu32sWQGpjSz6oaN9YA/s1600/Screenshot-134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUZ-MQg2OeA1qsSnuAhDNbaik1HTLlBkm969m8WeWsrRRBYlzZNYhZaBrkndSD00MBi6effWv7wE-AbQ2R-zr1qxLeJcjdC_c6s2HymuClRGhi-VBxkCCJGuZphu32sWQGpjSz6oaN9YA/s640/Screenshot-134.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Money. I wish for tons and tons of money.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">And???</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2p3fvWfPcQApPq5YGuZVFtar-Ry0cB2xWL-KEeIoodkP49HQTsjnCqqSJYsy_-efqoDzEpdNCz1sDC-DnYF3k6EyOymOfjkua1I5lDKme0tKfn6jWIS8pOsnU7GjNoyLqCZLJe-1bWc/s1600/Screenshot-135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2p3fvWfPcQApPq5YGuZVFtar-Ry0cB2xWL-KEeIoodkP49HQTsjnCqqSJYsy_-efqoDzEpdNCz1sDC-DnYF3k6EyOymOfjkua1I5lDKme0tKfn6jWIS8pOsnU7GjNoyLqCZLJe-1bWc/s640/Screenshot-135.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The wishing well fairies tell me that if I want to be rich I should stop throwing money in wells.<br />
<br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">That was pretty sound advice. I told you that nothing good would come of stealing from the well.</i><br />
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I think I'll try again. Maybe I can be lucky in love.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Sam, are you sure this is a good idea?</i><br />
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My luck has to change sometime.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinrPdcVnGBw3FLt8tcE6wGyN0l4Q0vv6f7SA_l5hpZxNYsd5lFd8jFAcRsZpNQAFCWZC8lc-1TR4ux-kMy06NLDDYH_WbItbKU1HJhbrAg69l7RrttoxTyuzyKgk_wrakR9M4sK2jQ004/s1600/Screenshot-137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinrPdcVnGBw3FLt8tcE6wGyN0l4Q0vv6f7SA_l5hpZxNYsd5lFd8jFAcRsZpNQAFCWZC8lc-1TR4ux-kMy06NLDDYH_WbItbKU1HJhbrAg69l7RrttoxTyuzyKgk_wrakR9M4sK2jQ004/s640/Screenshot-137.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Oh yuck! It gave me a frog. It's cold and wet.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;"><i>You do know that tradition says you have to kiss it? Kiss the frog to get a beautiful princess or handsome prince.</i></span><br />
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Kiss? A frog? That's just disgusting.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;"><i>You wanted love. You have to deal with it.</i></span><br />
<br />
Damn, I kissed a frog and all I got was frog germs for my trouble. I'm sure that I'll get lucky sometime. I'll wish for family, that can't go wrong.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5Sz7ISTZyx4MdpsuWOgpLjNcve8JAyGa0pYAj63ODkIAdqhdnkaRE-dak22waN1S9xJhEL4THLNDckI3yK67EqEEP54D5CZVqXT4ZOdF-Z-UJN2oebexp-i3c8EAfYnVosWG0dta3Ts/s1600/Screenshot-139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5Sz7ISTZyx4MdpsuWOgpLjNcve8JAyGa0pYAj63ODkIAdqhdnkaRE-dak22waN1S9xJhEL4THLNDckI3yK67EqEEP54D5CZVqXT4ZOdF-Z-UJN2oebexp-i3c8EAfYnVosWG0dta3Ts/s640/Screenshot-139.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mum, something is definitely happening.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;"><i>I don't like the look of that water.</i></span><br />
<br />
It's exciting, something is definitely happening!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;"><i>I'm glad that you're excited Sam. I just don't know.</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm44DQcBhWdqXf1H1xm6OQ8Wv22t9K0_7M-ReqK5E7_TTDFRTuZ_cB3fz6AhQZsA_odxXyysJ2kFp9Hx_Q03kXMguW-Nw-aevDmbtuVZGlp5UYwCutmZl0gtjrRoMRU9oM91v_Ub5lyU/s1600/Screenshot-142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm44DQcBhWdqXf1H1xm6OQ8Wv22t9K0_7M-ReqK5E7_TTDFRTuZ_cB3fz6AhQZsA_odxXyysJ2kFp9Hx_Q03kXMguW-Nw-aevDmbtuVZGlp5UYwCutmZl0gtjrRoMRU9oM91v_Ub5lyU/s640/Screenshot-142.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">I wait forever and ever in that well for a family and I get you? Why did I have to get such a loser?</span></b><br />
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Loser! You call me a loser, boy?<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">What else did you expect to be called? Dad? Don't think that's going to happen soon.</span></b><br />
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You are so going to be shipped to military school, boy.<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">No, he's not. You haven't the money to send him away. You have a son, love it or lump it.</i><br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">My name is Berjes. You could at least get that right, loser.</span></b><br />
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Right, fine. If you want to be called Berjes, you should call me Dad or Sam. <br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">Well, I guess we are stuck with each other, Sam. What's for dinner? You have no idea how hungry you get waiting in the well.</b><br />
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Salad. It's all I've got.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Loser</span>.</b><br />
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I heard that. Behave or the minute I can scrape together the cash, you are off to military school.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-6516839486612196972012-05-20T05:53:00.000-07:002012-05-20T21:11:43.293-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (Clone 63 - part 17 Finale)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyRJEgqd_Zblnc67JUpXd6cJUsCarU1Pg0BYE30G37f9g6lGxtHB5HATGNEPtfwNbbJh_0lkNvM3wfu_62d90y4RRuZ5PcgGxgq3SgCs5p24z3ic6Z60ammf8angRhrQzgm9nsssNfps/s1600/Screenshot-385_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyRJEgqd_Zblnc67JUpXd6cJUsCarU1Pg0BYE30G37f9g6lGxtHB5HATGNEPtfwNbbJh_0lkNvM3wfu_62d90y4RRuZ5PcgGxgq3SgCs5p24z3ic6Z60ammf8angRhrQzgm9nsssNfps/s640/Screenshot-385_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“Sammy?”<br />
<br />
“Yes love?”<br />
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“Stop fretting. You’re too tense and it’s making me tense and then we will both upset the twins.” Jericho probably had a point. I had barely left his side all evening, I couldn’t bear the thought of anything happening to him. So for the third time in one evening, Jer went to move and bumped against me because I was too close.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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“Sorry Jer. It’s just that…” I broke off with the vivid memory seeing him flat and completely still on the floor and another of picking him up and knowing the extent of his injuries. “There was a moment when I thought that freaking bastard had killed you. My heart almost stopped.”<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM89LLnctkj0WMgtkq4R-FmX28EI2ZDzPpBMAAWk6Ye7az1C_J2sqM4dsyPzfz32L71FJb7lhyphenhyphenPwArcU3Pppi3p7Qh00qnb8gZPrqhUfeisNbkcskizsoYWl6cH2IY3bGl819KUBeJHHg/s1600/Screenshot-387_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM89LLnctkj0WMgtkq4R-FmX28EI2ZDzPpBMAAWk6Ye7az1C_J2sqM4dsyPzfz32L71FJb7lhyphenhyphenPwArcU3Pppi3p7Qh00qnb8gZPrqhUfeisNbkcskizsoYWl6cH2IY3bGl819KUBeJHHg/s640/Screenshot-387_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“I know, but we can’t let the bastards win. We shouldn’t hide away. We shouldn’t live in fear. It’s our choice, our right and no one else’s business.” Jer wrapped his arms around me. “One bad apple is all. Granted that apple was rotten to the core but we know good people in town.”<br />
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I nodded. At the Pet Show no one seemed bothered by Jericho and I as a couple. No one commented at the ball either, except Chuck. Chuck had a lot of hate for us but no one else seemed to. “True, blue and beautiful. Very true. But I really don’t want to see you hurt again.”<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsM4efnrl2ni2MdJ1zYvvMOWFWxTSwrZSSCYOCro2nSPcb25AHsljzFAza9qf3Z5gWqoaouDUuWGU7o8Lj1sRX0i7tQtCxOfbDPOBu51y5nJkZJ49_oxO7qMpPGIVDvXjzXnXZ8VsVfog/s1600/Screenshot-386_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsM4efnrl2ni2MdJ1zYvvMOWFWxTSwrZSSCYOCro2nSPcb25AHsljzFAza9qf3Z5gWqoaouDUuWGU7o8Lj1sRX0i7tQtCxOfbDPOBu51y5nJkZJ49_oxO7qMpPGIVDvXjzXnXZ8VsVfog/s640/Screenshot-386_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“I feel fine. In fact,” he looked at me with a playful gleam in his eyes. He grabbed my left hand and kissed the palm. Then with deliberate slowness he continued up my arm; kissing, licking, nibbling and biting. Each time moving just the tiniest bit further up.<br />
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He still hadn’t even reached my elbow when I complained, “Jericho, hurry up.”<br />
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He paused and looked at me with an evil grin. “I know exactly what I’m doing.” He resumed his excruciatingly slow progress up the arm. He was right, he could keep me on an exact edge of excitement, an advantage of sharing each other’s pleasure as well as pain.<br />
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When he reached my elbow, he paused long enough to remove my shirt entirely. I started to reach to unbutton his shirt when he stopped me. “No, not allowed. You just stand there. You move and the game is over.” I froze in place and moaned softly when I realised he had no intention of heading for the bed yet. He resumed his attack on my arm still working with exquisite slowness. When he finally reached the collarbone, his shirt and my trousers joined the pile on the floor. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_pQ7Db5fSspsSwGvKiPHdHlu8_Q8gRGHRF2GYtEnvdskQatJgIXVN4gfl7ZhG_p0_MirRfGLeR321QMRvmc26DQQi-UrFFOVyFZEGTI_pdAG69-269q22Tjvwss9S8025p-YvgOVTro/s1600/Screenshot-388_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_pQ7Db5fSspsSwGvKiPHdHlu8_Q8gRGHRF2GYtEnvdskQatJgIXVN4gfl7ZhG_p0_MirRfGLeR321QMRvmc26DQQi-UrFFOVyFZEGTI_pdAG69-269q22Tjvwss9S8025p-YvgOVTro/s640/Screenshot-388_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Much much later, or all too soon, he finally started nibbling an ear lobe. “Well,” he whispered. “Ready for bed?”<br />
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“If you are suggesting that I could possibly sleep after that, I might have to kill you.” I replied. He grinned. “But you have convinced me to let you have your wicked way with me.” I noticed then that at some point, Jer had managed to shed his own trousers. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuw-jk8QQT7AxeNHaZrbdxcwpQTlrHDmXbY1_ny6rdyuhSkwF7zp3J9T-CEYbTfZfMjdwq5n-R9wcFc4qJ18G1DM5Icnf-gGjVWvFv0UpQTafE-34qCHzGSPJByAl3-8bTHncPVDARTT8/s1600/Screenshot-390_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuw-jk8QQT7AxeNHaZrbdxcwpQTlrHDmXbY1_ny6rdyuhSkwF7zp3J9T-CEYbTfZfMjdwq5n-R9wcFc4qJ18G1DM5Icnf-gGjVWvFv0UpQTafE-34qCHzGSPJByAl3-8bTHncPVDARTT8/s640/Screenshot-390_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Jericho proved that he truly felt fine by picking me and carrying me to our room. He put me down on the bed. “Still worried about my health?” he asked as he straddled me. He had me pinned to the bed with enough strength that I’d definitely have a struggle, if what I wanted to do was get away. Getting away wasn’t exactly what I wanted to do.<br />
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“At this point, I’m more worried about mine. You are trying to kill me with anticipation.” I tried to kiss him but he stayed just out of reach. “I give, I surrender, uncle, please?” Jericho finally relented. I was still pinned under his weight but he moved close enough that I could, with effort, kiss him. Mostly though, he was kissing me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4m-bDBt3oVmjDql2I26IIVXonsuodmmnhFjQ3YQlfxgJBNMq1_ZuWAglKEdjskpy2SzfBK7TH9uMKkFwl-IZWK-SrVUN5oa_5z33HiCIsCVvg9wbbXe8K2m2r6PnS3wRbxktZFVQ7Ok/s1600/Screenshot-391_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4m-bDBt3oVmjDql2I26IIVXonsuodmmnhFjQ3YQlfxgJBNMq1_ZuWAglKEdjskpy2SzfBK7TH9uMKkFwl-IZWK-SrVUN5oa_5z33HiCIsCVvg9wbbXe8K2m2r6PnS3wRbxktZFVQ7Ok/s640/Screenshot-391_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I finally started to relax and unwind under his attention, his devotion creating a warm glow within. By the time we went to sleep, a tangle of limbs and sheets, we were both pleasantly exhausted by our activities.<br />
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The next morning I woke briefly, remembered I’d been fired and snuggled back into the bed nestling against Jericho. Unemployment did have one perk, I could sleep in. We might go broke but I’d be well rested.<br />
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So when a car honked outside, I did my best to ignore it. It wasn’t until someone was pounding on the door shouting, “Sam? Jericho? Are you guys ok?” that I finally gave in, got up and opened the door.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnvt55xN1amSkyKHbay5onxdr1lZN5Vv1Ecyb_f3HmBYcD1gc71aRWoEqjzFNs0fttqxWFfbuRQGlnij0gOpt2f-1Lpo32utSwNvm4TfQbD6bHKYqLczlTUZ_6zcUOqU2zBjHnhofl3NE/s1600/Screenshot-379_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnvt55xN1amSkyKHbay5onxdr1lZN5Vv1Ecyb_f3HmBYcD1gc71aRWoEqjzFNs0fttqxWFfbuRQGlnij0gOpt2f-1Lpo32utSwNvm4TfQbD6bHKYqLczlTUZ_6zcUOqU2zBjHnhofl3NE/s640/Screenshot-379_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Felipe came in. “Well, it’s about time. We’ll be late to the station.” He took a second look at me and one eyebrow went up. “Umm, not exactly ready for work, are you?”<br />
<br />
“I was fired yesterday,” I shrugged. “Why not sleep in?”<br />
<br />
At this point, Jericho cautiously came out into the room. “Jericho?” Felipe said, “There will be an official apology later today but I want you to know that I am sorry for what happened yesterday. I had no idea that our <b>former senior officer</b> had major issues nor that he’d take it out on someone.” Felipe turned back to me. “I didn’t know that Darnell-Hobble had fired you so you have an appointment for 9:30 today. It’s kind of important that you be there. After that, if you need a few days off, please do take them.”<br />
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I sighed and nodded. “I refuse to be responsible for my actions if that bastard is in the room.”<br />
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“He won’t be. When Jared brought him in yesterday, we decided it best to ship him over to the Pleasantview prison. You know we don’t have the facilities to keep someone locked up for more than a day or two. And we need to get rolling if we are going to make that appointment.” He looked over at Jericho. “You can come as well if you like. One of you has to come but both would be welcome.”<br />
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We looked at each other and nodded. We both threw on some clothes, I rang a sitter and within five minutes, we were on our way.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0nAiuehkiQ8Yrqpm4mXWvV2d52kLvFbuiclCqWO0AU-yS1duKtkKimX57atCjCcPjdl3RQKodGOJHz__v0uU5UVe7sNB6cRJfBOnJBK0jxq1ViVAljQ6lxpy5o6bJ5EryzezNcGRUEM/s1600/Screenshot-365_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0nAiuehkiQ8Yrqpm4mXWvV2d52kLvFbuiclCqWO0AU-yS1duKtkKimX57atCjCcPjdl3RQKodGOJHz__v0uU5UVe7sNB6cRJfBOnJBK0jxq1ViVAljQ6lxpy5o6bJ5EryzezNcGRUEM/s640/Screenshot-365_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“So, is there anything you can tell us about this appointment?”<br />
<br />
“Well, after Jared brought in Chuck, and told me why, I had a chat to the mayor. He called a meeting of the town council. They spent a great deal of yesterday afternoon and into the evening debating the issues.” <br />
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Jericho and I looked at each other. “Really?”<br />
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“Yes. I know the mayor will be at the meeting. I’m not sure who else, if anyone, will be there.”<br />
<br />
Sure enough, Mayor Booker Singleton, Cheyenne Fox of the town council, and retired judge Tate Curley were all in attendance. “Mayor, Sam and Jericho Grant are here for the appointment.”<br />
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The mayor stood and shook our hands. “Mr Grant, Felipe has told me that you are a promising young policeman. And Mr Grant, I’m glad to see that you are feeling well enough to come to this meeting.”<br />
<br />
Jer shrugged, “Only because Sam happened to come home before <b>your officer</b> had a chance to do too much damage.” Mayor Singleton winced slightly at Jericho’s emphasis but didn’t protest. He waved at some comfortable furniture clustered around a low table.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIoYsMudkz6pq5KDNLz4Hvb5TbkzUpuMaN3QW3JGqrZkWynwyEBQ_4-jXaf6MRkzG_x0iJ9PYreidaaHsBRMvX74fELbcPZOjLgeaYLDIoytAtcETSXq5ZhwMEdXesEOCiT2wwuCWAJ8/s1600/Screenshot-366_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIoYsMudkz6pq5KDNLz4Hvb5TbkzUpuMaN3QW3JGqrZkWynwyEBQ_4-jXaf6MRkzG_x0iJ9PYreidaaHsBRMvX74fELbcPZOjLgeaYLDIoytAtcETSXq5ZhwMEdXesEOCiT2wwuCWAJ8/s640/Screenshot-366_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“That brings us to why I arranged this meeting. We may be a small town but we like to think we are quite progressive in our outlook. Finding out that a police officer harboured such prejudice as to assault an ordinary citizen in their home, well, it’s just not acceptable. Darnell-Hobble was way out of line. He’s been officially suspend from the force without pay awaiting trial. If he’s convicted, he’ll be permanently dismissed from the force.”<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_SYzmhKNLjAsGx_L6GKMqZTye9OHjCKgfBX0QtR5XxKZGp4mLb4-WdSm1deoDs1dEKn1dzjUyqtsn6Fojp9nCF0ajzVifKJcBHGwiy1CZZsptAG7lLI3-NETWtAvI663sFdWC_GR5k4/s1600/Screenshot-368_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_SYzmhKNLjAsGx_L6GKMqZTye9OHjCKgfBX0QtR5XxKZGp4mLb4-WdSm1deoDs1dEKn1dzjUyqtsn6Fojp9nCF0ajzVifKJcBHGwiy1CZZsptAG7lLI3-NETWtAvI663sFdWC_GR5k4/s640/Screenshot-368_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Tate Curley spoke up. “The town has filed official charges of police brutality, intimidation and discrimination against Mr Darnell-Hobble. Are there any further charges you wish to add?”<br />
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“He entered our home under false pretences. He was wearing his uniform, which meant Jericho felt obligated to let him in. Assault.” I frowned in thought. “I think that covers it.”<br />
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Tate nodded, “While I can’t predict how the trial might go, it’s safe to say that he will be convicted of some of these charges.”<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJNvUh2kCFL-KCPdpcRy5L_V2YVKpwIUEnxNq4DD7UvXPkMsk_YMTBYqQZJSgAJL_0fanR-BEr2_eXlkpUIHQpLr7wnFW7W-hX1Qqq12QGHma8R7UExqE4UoV4w69QrxjFLCmIlpZUeM/s1600/Screenshot-371_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJNvUh2kCFL-KCPdpcRy5L_V2YVKpwIUEnxNq4DD7UvXPkMsk_YMTBYqQZJSgAJL_0fanR-BEr2_eXlkpUIHQpLr7wnFW7W-hX1Qqq12QGHma8R7UExqE4UoV4w69QrxjFLCmIlpZUeM/s640/Screenshot-371_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Felipe spoke up. “I would like to add that Darnell-Hobble’s dismissal of Sam from the force was another act of discrimination. Sam, as far as your job is concerned, you are still a cop and I think that you deserve a pay increase for any stress caused by that wrongful dismissal.” There were nods around the table at that. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0RpAW0nuXyxJCBRAA5kFkZkWIEfsm6-0Ep2jSlLJgDZ-VDVFQX7tfqy4z2zlLtgKeZn4qtcGKccfNjERLFXaZGNUIDba0DO534CSSuvDc-GO1Jbno1ftyDy23L4-X8jG8_2_WYX377_c/s1600/Screenshot-375_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0RpAW0nuXyxJCBRAA5kFkZkWIEfsm6-0Ep2jSlLJgDZ-VDVFQX7tfqy4z2zlLtgKeZn4qtcGKccfNjERLFXaZGNUIDba0DO534CSSuvDc-GO1Jbno1ftyDy23L4-X8jG8_2_WYX377_c/s640/Screenshot-375_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“So now we get to the crux of the matter. As a citizen that has been wronged by an official of our town, you do have the right to sue. We’d much rather avoid the pain, expense and time that one or more law suits would bring,” said Cheyenne. “There’s not much point in trying to sue Darnell-Hobble, he went through a divorce recently and won’t be worth the effort. You could potential sue either the town or the police department or both.” She opened her case and shuffled through a few papers. “I have the authority to offer you 100,000 as a one time settlement with the understanding that you will take no further legal actions against the town or police department.”<br />
<br />
Jericho and I looked at each other. “Comments, love?” I asked him quietly. <br />
<br />
He examined each person sitting in the small room. “Nearly there, but I think we could do without a property tax on our home as well,” he finally stated. I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
Cheyenne wrote a few quick notes. “I think it’s safe to say that’s a reasonable request. So, gentlemen, anything else we can do to conclude our business from this very unfortunate affair?”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lzRfamwrjX6mZ135ImT5kECsITl-PpPuTZXLR93YDhFw591H_VWsFhytyfsE0p5zz4sESAoMSqEoD1GqRE-PYBtDGWdLM7cafhZMsHha-K30-h31v1Qe9nRmlA1tXxxSRwXZcwapUrY/s1600/Screenshot-370_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lzRfamwrjX6mZ135ImT5kECsITl-PpPuTZXLR93YDhFw591H_VWsFhytyfsE0p5zz4sESAoMSqEoD1GqRE-PYBtDGWdLM7cafhZMsHha-K30-h31v1Qe9nRmlA1tXxxSRwXZcwapUrY/s640/Screenshot-370_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I did some serious thinking. I had my job back. We’d have enough cash to last a long time if we weren’t too extravagant. Charges against Chuck were in progress. He was already in prison in a different place so, with any luck, we’d never see him again. <br />
<br />
Some part of me was disappointed that wasn’t to be a fight, there was no need to sue everybody I could think of. But what I really wanted was to make sure it wasn’t going to happen again and it was clear that the town council was sending that message too. “It is against city codes of conduct to discriminate against citizens for any reason; colour, creed, sexual preferences?”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tS3ox-xviDcf5V3nrYyCnkSbFPr-fBLmLDdOGfvM1mycaFn26XBPgPMxRU3Umt6octnsH-Jfz0HNuIDenueQYUKgLPAn4yo-V4pTqC3ALXqzvYWhBK0XqXWfZJUQvZB1WYFQjI4JPR4/s1600/Screenshot-367_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tS3ox-xviDcf5V3nrYyCnkSbFPr-fBLmLDdOGfvM1mycaFn26XBPgPMxRU3Umt6octnsH-Jfz0HNuIDenueQYUKgLPAn4yo-V4pTqC3ALXqzvYWhBK0XqXWfZJUQvZB1WYFQjI4JPR4/s640/Screenshot-367_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Brooker nodded. “We checked yesterday. It has been official policy for some years now. That’s why the council filed a charge of discrimination against Darnell-Hobble among the other charges. You both are just as entitled to full protection under our laws as anyone else in this town.”<br />
<br />
I traced the back of Jer’s hand lightly with one finger. “I can’t think of anything more to ask for. You?”<br />
<br />
He frowned slightly in concentration. “Everything I can think of has been covered. I want to know all our children, no matter what they look like and no matter who they love, will grow up in a place that is safe for them. I’m satisfied that the town has done what’s needed. People will be people so there can be no guarantee but we’ll probably never find a safer place.”<br />
<br />
“Then we agree. We won’t sue the town or the police department in exchange for the 100,000 offered and no more property tax on our home.”<br />
<br />
“Gentlemen, I wish our first meeting had been under better circumstances,” Mayor Singleton said as he was standing. “I do hope our next meeting is for much happier reasons.” He shook our hands as we got ready to leave the building.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKUeSPIFF4J6dPBR_UzvGYKHGxzLoqxBvwrdYVvuUAjcc9Uwkhe8YO3iygDSykuFYxTzxeDhTfgffkl9FHt36a4cxTjR5D_VFmxihtBTtssJUv9amwzh8cZTA_qW9KHxFfaS4lYcTFZg/s1600/Screenshot-380_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKUeSPIFF4J6dPBR_UzvGYKHGxzLoqxBvwrdYVvuUAjcc9Uwkhe8YO3iygDSykuFYxTzxeDhTfgffkl9FHt36a4cxTjR5D_VFmxihtBTtssJUv9amwzh8cZTA_qW9KHxFfaS4lYcTFZg/s640/Screenshot-380_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>“Need a lift home?” asked Felipe. My phone beeped at me a couple of times and I checked the message.<br />
<br />
“Actually, could you drop us off at the science lab? I think we have a special delivery to pick up.”<br />
<br />
Jericho’s eyes sparkled. “Special delivery?”<br />
<br />
“Two babies, a boy and a girl again. I told you I had your wedding wish covered.”<br />
<br />
Felipe came to a halt. “Wait, you guys want twins?” We both nodded. “No offence but god you are weird. One toddler was enough to drive my wife and I nuts sometimes.”<br />
<br />
We laughed. “None taken. Twins are twice the cuddles, twice the love.”<br />
<br />
“Twice the dirty diapers,” added Jericho.<br />
<br />
“Your problem, you are the one with a baby fetish,” I teased him. Felipe just shook his head as he drove us over to the lab.<br />
<br />
—<br />
<br />
Well, Mum, that’s about it from me. Eddie and Howie moved out, they finally found a new place to rent in town. The two new babies are both striders, they are Seahorse and Anemone. Chuck was offered a plea bargain, he pleaded guilty to about half the charges and didn’t have to face the others. He did end up with a respectable prison sentence and was dismissed from the police. Once Chuck was officially fired, I was offered a promotion. Jericho is a happy house hubby who can concentrate as much as he likes on the kids. Goby and Monica just started school, we hope they are ready for it.<br />
<br />
---<br />
Bonus pics<br />
<br />
Damn, I have to do these again. They are supposed to have shirts for the first couple...<br />
So suffer guys with some spare shirtless pics.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBj0OGJLPzI8zuU-d4rrA_W0NBFl2wnEGLFDwP44sIZvA11ofqTfU61m6IrRnmJ1VpGCGwD4hbmiPCOAaEe4D8Ai3ve2qiHGl9n2kGIsL-J-wPZi16peFmoxfQEyhDAlaYpQqc7FnRP7o/s1600/Screenshot-389_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBj0OGJLPzI8zuU-d4rrA_W0NBFl2wnEGLFDwP44sIZvA11ofqTfU61m6IrRnmJ1VpGCGwD4hbmiPCOAaEe4D8Ai3ve2qiHGl9n2kGIsL-J-wPZi16peFmoxfQEyhDAlaYpQqc7FnRP7o/s320/Screenshot-389_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWgQBdrfJMpyJfxcYzzjmOzPD6w46kPGsnsMeaMFGRjHnkvoptmGnsAB9TRcWcUajv2Hoqf4NO8YZ6iv55iQyAK7YwGH7rfDfCnn2Umusfh7DfAeJF7HeVma5A6cMjVZyH4IMqEYhyphenhyphenVo/s1600/Screenshot-369_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWgQBdrfJMpyJfxcYzzjmOzPD6w46kPGsnsMeaMFGRjHnkvoptmGnsAB9TRcWcUajv2Hoqf4NO8YZ6iv55iQyAK7YwGH7rfDfCnn2Umusfh7DfAeJF7HeVma5A6cMjVZyH4IMqEYhyphenhyphenVo/s320/Screenshot-369_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>sammy frown<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGJxw3jbGsc6ApPPQrb48L_rRtEPy5HJGxVrS8h-8_38uuThJcnPOGbMOscnVNrl-sN8vU5crJY0LLCgKymc-ih5DyydGBhWjhPYqNPsI61iKJKak6WybTQqNdz53LX-Oz4TnyofpCbY/s1600/Screenshot-372_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGJxw3jbGsc6ApPPQrb48L_rRtEPy5HJGxVrS8h-8_38uuThJcnPOGbMOscnVNrl-sN8vU5crJY0LLCgKymc-ih5DyydGBhWjhPYqNPsI61iKJKak6WybTQqNdz53LX-Oz4TnyofpCbY/s320/Screenshot-372_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I pledge my love to my fans. Sammy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuH3cXvOSKKH5i_Y7SmUOSNr4Ph1TIpamHuJTBkfR-hhSkH2MIndHBJ4-WZS6g0UxnXUUIgUWsqmy3qf2CttF085DUfeX4xFaof320JoMUsq4jP8Sa8n6PaVRCC-sn_7g3KfyWz8layek/s1600/Screenshot-377_sam_20_05_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuH3cXvOSKKH5i_Y7SmUOSNr4Ph1TIpamHuJTBkfR-hhSkH2MIndHBJ4-WZS6g0UxnXUUIgUWsqmy3qf2CttF085DUfeX4xFaof320JoMUsq4jP8Sa8n6PaVRCC-sn_7g3KfyWz8layek/s320/Screenshot-377_sam_20_05_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6382414690351949641.post-39634291354066997042012-05-06T03:14:00.000-07:002012-05-06T03:18:19.007-07:00Hi Mum, It's Sammy (Clone 63 - part 16)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bcSbwuy83UEqF4JQ1EVjt4p8FuJ7nSkk9HijSHhlDNnETs_bDnbnhc8S_8RncPFBWGpIgjG25BMuXxHl-MHTew6LtyXcA7EsQC63CDG2wqWdu2FRzb9g25iWztErzWUKfIq9Iv8oaec/s1600/Screenshot-341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bcSbwuy83UEqF4JQ1EVjt4p8FuJ7nSkk9HijSHhlDNnETs_bDnbnhc8S_8RncPFBWGpIgjG25BMuXxHl-MHTew6LtyXcA7EsQC63CDG2wqWdu2FRzb9g25iWztErzWUKfIq9Iv8oaec/s640/Screenshot-341.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I started to breath in and out slowly, calming myself as I walked away from the station. A few people said something at me as I went past but I just shook my head and kept going. I was in a uniform that was no longer mine, I didn't want anyone to ask about something assuming that I was still a cop.<br />
<br />
"Jericho?" I stopped walking and looked around even though some part of me knew that was pointless. Jer was frightened, badly frightened by something. He's ... still home. I was in a taxi headed home without even a moment's pause for thought.<br />
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In the taxi, I flipped open my phone. I was about to ring Eddie to ask him to meet me at home when I felt Jer's pain. I was close enough to know that Jericho had just been punched in the stomach. I rang the station instead of Eddie. "Jared? I need police at my home. We have an intruder."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJTyxOKOBfIPUoIsmJfffKbvcOqwLLWW0uvwU5J8rAWbfr3vK0AUyxzyDrAAr2pnia3n2aSFSx8gavH6V4UEjyoTkio6tjqYJQ_SaelwWpxbEj7wz0Hwae8P6nuHsIAFq5aW4ds9zUra8/s1600/Screenshot-344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJTyxOKOBfIPUoIsmJfffKbvcOqwLLWW0uvwU5J8rAWbfr3vK0AUyxzyDrAAr2pnia3n2aSFSx8gavH6V4UEjyoTkio6tjqYJQ_SaelwWpxbEj7wz0Hwae8P6nuHsIAFq5aW4ds9zUra8/s640/Screenshot-344.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I stumbled getting out of the taxi, Jer had taken a major blow to the ribs. I paid the driver and ran toward the house. I could already hear the wail of a police siren not far away.<br />
<br />
It took a moment for me to interpret the scene after I ran through the open door. At first, I didn't see Jericho at all. I did see...<br />
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"And you will stay out of my town." I saw Chuck move and felt the echo of his kick on Jer's body. "And you will take your perverted friends with you." I caught a glimpse of Jericho lying still on the floor, mostly hidden behind the bar. I would have been afraid he was dead, but I could still feel the pain of that last kick. Plus the pain from previous blows.<br />
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I tackled Darnell-Hobble from behind. "You freaking bastard. You are a disgrace to that uniform you wear."<br />
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"How dare you say that, you pervert."<br />
<br />
I pulled him well away from Jericho. I wanted to touch Jer, to make sure he was going to be ok. But that was just going to have to wait until Darnell-Hobble was gone.<br />
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Fortunately, it was about then that Jared made his entrance. "What's going on?" He frowned as he took in the scene.<br />
<br />
"I came home to find this ... " I searched for a good term but couldn't find one. "This man assaulting my spouse." I pushed Chuck toward Jared.<br />
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"You'll be pressing charges?"<br />
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"You bet we'll be pressing charges. It's unforgiveable." Jared nodded and pushed Chuck out the door.<br />
<br />
I went to back to Jericho. "Love, why the hell were you just letting him pound you? Why didn't you fight back?"<br />
<br />
His eyes fluttered open. "I didn't want him to notice the toddlers. He didn't hurt our babies, did he?"<br />
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"I don't think he had time but let's go see." Since cribs were in our room, I could put Jericho in bed and check the babies without leaving him alone. I lifted him carefully. Wrapping my arms around him brought home the full extent of his injuries. Nothing fatal but very painful. I feared that at least one rib was cracked. I carried him to our bed, setting him down as gently as I could.<br />
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It wasn't until I had completely let go of Jericho that I realised our touch was doing something more than usual. Energy had been flowing from me to Jer, my body was helping his recover.<br />
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Jericho reached out with one arm. "Don't go."<br />
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"Shh, love. Two seconds while I check the babies." I peeked in the cribs, both toddlers were peacefully sleeping.<br />
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I went back and pulled off Jericho's shirt, tucking him into the bed. Then I took off my shirt and nestled against Jer in bed. "The babies are fine. I'm here. Better?" I could feel energy flowing between us again, better now that more skin touched skin. Some of Jer's pain was already ebbing away.<br />
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"Better," he agreed sleepily. I nuzzled his neck contentedly and drifted off into a light doze.<br />
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When I woke, I could tell that Jer was a long way toward being healed. My stomach rumbled to let me know why I had suddenly awoken. I slipped out of bed as quietly as I could.<br />
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"No," protested Jericho.<br />
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"Just a few minutes, Jer. I have to eat. I will be as quick as I can." I went out to the kitchen and grabbed the first thing I found in the fridge. I bolted down the food then went back for seconds, whatever it was that meant I could heal Jer was also making me starve. I waited till I felt my energy levels were close to normal.<br />
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By the time I returned, Jer was lying awake on the bed. "Sammy, I had the weirdest dream. Some guy dressed as a policeman came into the house and was beating me up. Then you came in and stopped it. Funny thing, I don't even remember coming in here for a nap."<br />
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"I'm afraid that wasn't a dream. I felt your fear when it started and so I came home. You were hurt and on the floor by the time I got here." I got back into bed beside him.<br />
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"I was hurt? That's why I thought it was a dream, nothing hurts now." He blinked a few times. "Though I do ache a little, now that I think about it."<br />
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I moved over to cuddle him. "Apparently I can help you heal. I guess it's something to do with our bond." I traced a faint mark on his chest, it had been a very nasty bruise a couple of hours ago.<br />
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"With every day that passes, I realise again that we were meant to be. Sam, that you can heal because of the bond is stunning." He looked a bit reflective. "I wish I knew more bonded couples. It might help us know what to expect."<br />
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"So, we don't know everything. We may never know all the possibilities. It doesn't matter, love." It truly made no difference. I could never and would never leave Jericho no matter what new things lie in store. "You know, when you were being attack, I felt every blow. Not as much as you did but enough to know exactly what was happening. It was a scary experience, let's try not to repeat it."<br />
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"Agreed, Sam but it's not exactly as though I had done anything to provoke this. I let him in because he was in a police uniform and the next thing I know, he's shouting, punching and kicking."<br />
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"Chuck hates us. He fired me first thing today. I've been wandering around town wondering what to do about that. From hero to unemployed in a week, my head hurts."<br />
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Jericho reached over and gently stroked my cheek. "What should we do, love?"<br />
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I grabbed his hand and kissed the palm. "For the rest of today? Absolutely nothing. I'm staying close to you and the toddlers. Tomorrow, I raise 20 kinds of hell all over town about this. It should never have happened and I'm going to make a point that it should never happen again."<br />
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Poor Jericho was in an animator faint loop. Up - oh - thud. Again and again and again. He was the one with a headache!<br />
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Jared, you don't stand in the computer to use it.<br />
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cop car<br />
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sunset<br />
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Jer pulls great faces.PiB - Nicarrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17798991335165490144noreply@blogger.com21