The Kryten and Kochanski Families - Round 1

Well, as you can see the week started out badly, and somehow didn't get much better, at least on a personal level. Incidentally, my name's Ian Kryten, and I've moved to Prosperton for a fresh start after my wife died in a freak accident. She was doing well in her chosen career, Natural Science, but that went horribly wrong when she was eaten by her own experiment; some kind of weird hybrid of a cow and a plant. It's terrible what Scientists can do now. I mean, who in their right mind would want to cross-breed plant and animal lifeforms? Still, Eunice payed the price!

She left me with two small sons to raise, and not a simolean in death insurance. It seemed the company had not formally sanctioned her research in writing, although they knew what was going on. I mean, Eunice had received millions in research grants, and big name Corporations don't give away that kind of money without some knowledge of what their investment is being used for. I kicked up a fuss, and contacted the papers, but it's obvious I'll never get justice or a simolean in reparation for her death.

Here's my baby boy, Louis,although he's getting big now. I didn't have a clue about potty training, or anything like that. Eunice had always hired the best nannies for our boys, which just left me to play the odd game of wobbly wabbit head, and kiss them before bed!

This is Robbie, who looks just like his Mother. It's painful to watch him sometimes, as he reminds me so much of her! I wish I could find someone to take my mind of it, but it's all too fresh in my memory at the moment. I hope to eventually move on with my life, but not yet; I still haven't been able to forget her!

The local nanny I hired was a great help, in fact she stays after work to have a meal and socialise. I was wary at leaving the boys at first. I'd heard some horror stories about nannies, but Calista was a godsend. And she could cook, something I have yet to master. It meant I could spend time working or training the kids without worrying, although the I've found the whole situation very draining, both emotionally and physically. As you can see, I am not a happy bunny, although I avoided a total breakdown. Incidentally, I have a new job in the military. Early starts, but it means I have my afternoons free for the boys.

Louis is turning into quite a little character, and can twist Calista round his little finger. He even used his influence to get her to garden the other day. She's a sucker where he's concerned.

He grew up well, although I hardly noticed it happening. One minute he was learning to use the potty, the next he was asking for homework help. Exhaustion can do that to you!

I felt really sorry, after all Calista had made us a meal and all, but I could hardly keep my eyes open. Poor Louis, some birthday that was! I promise things will get better now he's more able to take care of himself.

Even Calista is disgusted with my behaviour, and she's a hard woman to disgust. I mean the woman handles baby poo for a living!

Louis growing up gave me more time to socialise, which helped my mood alot. It's hard to be stuck with only two kids and an old lady for company, especially for a popularity sim. Although I don't seem to be that popular; Judas Rimmer on the other hand get's on with everyone, especially the ladies. The man's obsessed with woohoo, and the conversation soon turned in that direction. He was amazed when I admitted I hadn't since the death of my wife. I've come to the conclusion he's not the most faithful man in Prosperton, and if I ever meet another woman I'll be keeping her well away from his clutches.

I managed to get both the boys to learn to do homework this week, and it did alot for their aspirations. Mine on the other hand have taken a few knocks!

It's funny, but it's almost like every decision I make is cursed!

I eventually get promoted at the end of the week. I'm not so fussed now though; I realise my boys are more important than my job, and as long as we remain best friends, nothing much else matters. Ok, I'm not funny or handsome like Judas, and woman will never swoon over me in a Pirate's outfit, but I have the respect of my boys. And that counts for a lot!

Although I look very smart in my new uniform, even if I do say so myself.

We even ended the week with more money than we started with. And I earned every penny the hard way!

The Kochanski Family

My name's Adam, and these are my brothers and sisters. We're an adopted family, although the elderly spinster who took us all in had no idea her life would end so suddenly, or prematurely. She was knocked down by the school bus right outside our home. Tom had only moments earlier grown up, and she tried to get him a seat before it left the lot. It wasn't the fault of the driver, just an unfortunate accident. Social Services decided Hannah and I were old enough to raise the family after we begged them to let us stay together. We had to give the house back to the landlord, as the lease was no longer valid. Social Services found us this place in Prosperton. It was cheap, as the place has few amenities. I was glad to move; who'd want to stay in that house with all its memories. I do feel Social Services are breathing down our necks now though, just waiting to take the little ones into care the first time me or Hannah slip up.

For that reason it was doubly important Daniel learnt his toddler skills. Luckily he was a quick learner, and I didn't have too many problems teaching him to walk.

Neither Hannah or I knew how to cook, so while she gained a couple of points, I got on with teaching Daniel to talk.

We got a nanny in to watch the younger kids while we both worked after school. It didn't bring in much, but it helped a little. As a fortune sim, I was constantly worried about money, and didn't want our small nest egg to dwindle to nothing. Something had to be kept aside in case of emergencies, and for the bills, which arrived all too frequently.

We tried to make learning as much fun as possible. Here it's boys versus girls in the homework teachathon. The best team obviously won, but only by a whisker.

Potty training took forever. With no smart milk, it was almost impossible. Although I finally managed it, Hannah had done her fair share too.

What a relief! We'd managed it; Daniel was finally a child! Not only was the threat of Social Services receeding, but both Hannah and I now had time to finally concentrate on getting a few scholarships together.

Buggle eyed little devil isn't he!

I made a really bad decision at work, which could have cost me my job, or got me a caution from the police. I know I should therefore be happy, and $150 isn't a huge amount, but to a fortune sim like myself it's a , well a fortune actually! I shan't be doing that again!

I soon taught Daniel to do his homework. If you look, in the background Kristine is painting, and she's getting really good at it. It's raising a small amount of income, and it makes her feel like she's contributing. She has a very wise and level head on her shoulders does Kristine.

I'm expecting her to take Art when she gets to University. If she get's to University! She's just so shy, and hates the idea of parties and bustle. I doubt a hall of residence would suit her!

The week ended well, with Hannah getting to the top of her teen career. Thankfully it's almost time for Kristine and Tom to become teenagers, which will allow Hannah and me to leave for University. I can hardly wait, although I know I'll miss them all. After all, they're all the family I've got, blood or not!