Are you updated to 1.67? To check, open the game launcher and look in the left hand corner. The digits there should read 1.67 - if they don't, download the super patch here: http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/FAQ-Current-Patch-1-67-Manual-links-and-more/td-p/67858
If you're updated, take a look for more suggestions: http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/FAQ-Unable-to-connect-with-origin/td-p/186744
