So far, I have tried the following:
- manually patching expansions prior to Generations
- DEP
- fresh new game by clearing content
- clearing cache
- turned off mods (only mods I use are NRAAS Overwatch, Awesomemod, and No Intro)
- disabled Store Mode and made FeaturedItems folder unwritable
- tried the backup save

This has happened ever since the Store. The game will run fine, but after a while, the game will "freeze" - the effects will still move, as does the mouse pointer, and even the audio, but somehow the time and Sims are frozen after a while. I consider this a "sign" that the game will eventually crash, so I made it a point to save frequently. Eventually the "Sims 3 has stopped responding" error will occur, and Crash Analyzer will note that its causes are unknown.

Any idea what happened, or is it normal post In-Game Shop patch?

• Sims 3 - Game Problems
  Please go through this FAQ and follow the instructions, doing each step in order and not skipping anything:
  • Game Help:Sims 3 Game Problem^wiki
  Most issues with the game can be resolved by following those steps.
  
  
• Sims 3 - Post Your Game Versions
  In order to help you we need more information on your game versions.
  If you need help finding what your game versions are see the links below:
  • Windows OS:Game_Help:TS3_Patching_Find_Gameversion^wiki
  • Mac OSX: Game_Help:TS3_Patching_Find_Gameversion#info.plist^wiki
  
  Please post the game version for each game that you have,
  (i.e. 1.12.70.006001 or 2.12.8.009017)
  • Base Game =
  • World Adventures =
  • High End Loft =
  • Ambitions =
  • Fast Lane =
  • Late Night =
  • Outdoor Living =
  • Generations =
  • Town Life =
  
  

What game versions are you on? Does this happen in all worlds and in all savegames, or just one? Please also run through the game problem guide, which will help us to determine the cause.