@afcf57fb314733d0
Not everyone who posts in this thread or the fire monkey thread is posting their Facebook name. There are other ways to add friends such as through google play, Xbox, and until the recent iOS upgrade, Game Center. These are specific to what operating system you are using on your device. I was just trying to establish if you were also using one of those platforms or just Facebook exclusively.
The best way way to find Facebook friends is through the sims Freeplay Facebook page. People who post on these sites don't always specify which platform they are using. Also some of the players of older posts may not play the game anymore.
It sounds like you are doing what you need to do to add friend. In the past there was a problem in the game with Facebook friends diapearing out of a player's list through the party boat. If you think that is happening you will need to contact support. It could also be the person you friend unfriends you when they have completed their social quest.
Update. I just reread your post. I think You have to be friends with the person on Facebook before you can add them as a neighbor in the game.