Kwikspell Konfections

Wonderful Package Full of Goodies...

2008-11-26T19:22:00.003-06:00

Oh my HSKS6 goodness! I received my package from Lily of Flitwick and all I can say is WOW! I have got to be the luckiest witch there is. Check out all the goodies...I got a great card, At Knit's End, 2-at-a-time Socks, my first long circ so I can not only knit 2 socks at a time, but can also finally learn magic loop, some dragonfly great stitchmarkers from Crazy 4 Dyeing, a small hank of Lily's very own handspun yarn, some Ghirardelli chocolates, chocolate almond M&M Premiums (YUM!), a box of Bertie Botts, the wonderful beret from Charmed knits specially made by Lily using some of you very lovely hand-dyed yarns, and last but certainly not least, an AWESOME sock blank that Lily dyed just for me. The sock yarn was so cleverly blanked that it's all ready for me to use my new book and circular needles to start right out knitting 2 socks at once.

I love it all!! Thank you SO much Lily!! :)

QUIDDITCH - Round 3

2008-11-15T10:17:00.001-06:00

1. Who was Tom Riddle Sr.'s girlfriend before Merope gave him the love potion?
a. Eleanor
B. CECILIA
c. Sally
d. Mandy

2. What does Luna say floated into Harry's ear when he was in the train car that supposedly caused him to lose focus?
a. Demiguise
b. Jobberknoll
C. WRACKSPURT
d. Runespoor

3. How much do the primary Apparition lessons cost?
a. 10 galleons
b. 8 galleons
c. 15 galleons
D. 12 GALLEONS

4. What is Professor Merrythought's first name?
a. Eileen
B. GALATEA
c. Carol
d. Jocelyn

5. What Hogwarts club was Eileen Prince captain of?
a. Charms Club
B. GOBSTONES CLUB
c. The Slug Club
d. Occlumency Club

6. Who is head of the Goblin Liaison Office?
a. Ambrosius Flame
B. DIRK CRESSWELL
c. Ciceron Harkiss
d. Barnabas Cuffe

7. Mrs. Weasley offers Fleur a goblin-made tiara for the wedding with Bill. What family member is currently in possession of the tiara?
A. AUNT MURIEL
b. Aunt Ethel
c. Aunt Edna
d. Aunt Thelma

8. How many points does Snape take from Gryffindor for Harry's late arrival and muggle attire?
a. 30
B. 70
c. 50
d. 90

9. When Professor Slughorn first meets Hermoine, he asks her whether she is related to Hector Dagworth-Granger. What society did Dagworth-Granger found?
a. The Most Extraordinary Society of Charms
b. The Most Extraordinary Society of Herbology
c. The Most Extraordinary Society of the Defense Against the Dark Arts
D. THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY SOCIETY OF POTIONEERS

10. Which of these describes Golpalott's Third Law?
a. The antidote for blended poison will be equal to less than the sum of the antidotes for each of the separate components.
b. The antidote for blended poison will be equal to less than the product of the antidotes for each of the separate components.
c. The antidote for blended poison will be equal to more than the product of the antidotes for each of the separate components.
D. THE ANTIDOTE FOR BLENDED POISON WILL BE EQUAL TO MORE THAN THE SUM OF THE ANTIDOTES FOR EACH OF THE SEPARATE COMPONENTS.

Super Secret Assignment...

2008-11-07T17:44:00.002-06:00

1. Astrid Cloverleaf
2. Cassandra Grubbly-Plank
3. Enna Kirts
4. Selena Starfire
5. Henry Longstaff
6. Ceciley Fortescue
7. Mona Ravenscroft
8. Argentia Pascal
9. Prendolyn Wilcox
10. Lizzy Wynchwood
11. Ursula Longbottom
12. Rowena Weasley
13. Aurora Curlycoat
14. Lily May Clearwater
15. Megeara Black

Bonus 1: Hermione Bagnold
Bonus 2: 37, so less

Off to the Hospital Wing...

2008-10-30T15:07:00.002-05:00

Unfortunately a mishap with one of those blasted Muggle contractions they use for transport is going to be sending me to the Hospital Wing after all. I simply don't have the healing abilities to take care of the matter on my own. Muggle transportation...Hmpf! Give me a good ole' fashioned broom any day! I tell you...it was all I could do not to grab my wand from beneath my robes and shout, "CRUCIO!" right then and there.

Hopefully Madam Pomfrey will be be able to mend the bones post-haste for me and I'll be back in the Tower common room very soon knitting by the fire with you all!

Oh, and HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Ravenclaw Homework...

2008-10-24T18:40:00.003-05:00

Ravenclaw homework for the week. Whew!

* * * * *

What security question does Mr. Weasley ask Mrs. Weasley before he enters the Burrow? He asks her what she likes him to call her when they are alone. What is the answer? Mollywobbles

What two names does Mrs. Cole call Dumbledore when she takes him to see Tom Riddle at the orphanage? Mr. Dumberton and Mr. Dunderbore

What is the name of Ginny's Pygmy Puff? Arnold

What three D's are needed for apparating? Destination, Determination, and Deliberation

What spell did Harry perform when he was attacked by Dementors? Patronus Charm

Who did an arrow salute at Dumbledore's funeral? The Centaurs

What did Dumbledore set on fire to prove to Tom Riddle that he was a wizard? Tom's wardrobe

What Christmas present did Kreacher give Harry? Maggots

What is on top of the Weasleys' Christmas tree? A garden gnome that had been stupified, painted gold and stuffed into a miniature tutu and had small wings glued onto him

What was the most popular item at Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes? Nosebleed nougat

Why did Harry threaten to kick Ron off the Griffindor Quidditch team? His depressed attitude

What happens if you break an Unbreakable Vow? You will die

Who did Hermoine go to Slughorn's party with? Connor McLaggen

Who is Mrs. Weasley's favorite singer? Celestina Warbeck

Who are the only two people who know the full contents of the prophecy made about Harry and Lord Voldemort? Harry and Dumbledore

Quidditch - Round 2

2008-10-17T19:49:00.002-05:00

1. What animal does the portrait in the Muggle Prime Minister's office resemble?
a. Rat
b. Frog
c. Cat
d. Lion

2. What drink does Romilda Vane try to give Harry?
a. Gillywater
b. Butterbeer
c. Pumpkin Juice
d. Elf-Made Wine

3. What is the name of the person who heads the Holyhead Harpies?
a. Gwenog Smith
b. Gwenog Jones
c. Glen Jones
d. Glen Smith

4. How many 'Exceeds Expectation' grades does Harry receive in his O.W.L's?
a. 6
b. 3
c. 5
d. 4

5. What is Professor Slughorn's favorite candy?
a. Cockroach Clusters
b. Sherbet Lemon
c. Acid Pops
d. Crystallized Pineapple

6. What tattoo is Harry reported to have on his chest?
a. Mermaid
b. Blast-Ended Skrewt
c. Hippogriff
d. Unicorn

7. What color robes do the staff at the Weasley's shop wear?
a. Buttercup
b. Magenta
c. Royal Blue
d. Aqua

8. What is the man outside Flourish and Blotts selling?
a. Amulets
b. Cloaks
c. Wands
d. Hats

9. How much is the skull, which Hermoine enquires about at Borgin and Burkes, worth?
a. 9 Galleons
b. 18 Galleons
c. 16 Galleons
d. 12 Galleons

10. What are Professor Slughorn's initials?
a. H.F.G.
b. H.E.F.
c. H.A.I.
d. H.K.D.

Ravenclaw Treasure Hunt...

2008-10-08T20:18:00.001-05:00

Olive, our Social Director, has set us to searching! We were given a list of items to photograph and post to our blogs. The hitch? Well, we needed to have an identifying marker in each photo to prove that we didn't take them from the muggle Internet. My identifier? My wand, of course!

An engagement ring...

A broom...

House "elf" Socks...

Butterbeer...

Raven's Feather(s)...

Magical Creature...

Used Textbook...

My Horcrux...

Fanged Frisbee...

Lucky "in love" Potion...

Muggle Artifact...

Tree Changing Seasons...

Public Art...

My Diadem...

Make my day...

2008-10-01T18:27:00.005-05:00

An owl swooped in this morning with the sweetest package from Dagmara Grindelwald of Gryffindor. It contained a little random act of kindness, and completely made my day! Look at what she sent...

There was a book of Cat Spells, which I've had a change to read a bit of and is very interesting. She also made me a bookmark that fits the book perfectly and has a star charm on one end and a witch's hat charm on the other. SO cute! I just love it!

The card even came with a warning to all dark wizards who might try to intercept her package. What a clever witch she is! ;)

Many thanks to you Dagmara for your thoughtfulness and the smiles you sent!

Quidditch - Round 1

2008-09-24T16:51:00.002-05:00

It's time for some Quidditch. Brooms at the ready....

* * * * * *

1. At the beginning of the book, Cornelius Fudge is talking to the Muggle Prime Minister. Which member of the Order of the Phoenix has recently been found dead?

c. Emmeline Vance

2. What animal does Bellatrix Lestrange kill when she and her sister, Narcissa, are goign to see Professor Snape?
b. Fox

3. What time does Professor Dumbledore collect Harry from Privet Drive?

b. 11 p.m.

4. What did Professor Slughorn transform into when he was trying to hide from Harry and Professor Dumbledore?
a. An armchair

5. What grade did Harry get in Herbology?

a. E - Exceeds Expectation

6. Herbert Chorley, the Prime Minister's Junior Minister, has been entertaining the public by impersonating which animal?
b. A duck

7. What is Profeesor Sprout's first name?

d. Pomona

8. What is Dumbledore's idea of "a few words"?
d. nitwit, oddment, blubber and tweak

9. Who is Marcus Belby's famous uncle?
b. Damocles

10. What is Snape's mother's name?

b. Eileen Prince

Pictures

It's Picture Day!!!

2008-09-22T18:14:00.004-05:00

Picture day here at Hogwarts! It's so exciting to see all the students in the halls of the castle in their best dress robes! My timeslot was at the end of the day, so hopefully my hair still looks alright!

'Puffs Got Homework...

2008-09-17T21:18:00.001-05:00

I know I'm not a Powder Puff, but I thought it might be fun to do their homework anyway. It was a great assignment! (Boy, I'm not a Ravenclaw, am I?)

1. Do you knit and/or crochet? Both, but I knit much more than I crochet

2. How long have you been at your craft? Let's see...I learned to crochet first, nearly 20 years ago now. About 10 years ago now I taught myself how to knit.

3. Do you spin? If yes do you use drop spindle or wheel. I don't spin...yet! I really want to learn though. I already have a drop spindle on my Christmas list.

4. What is your favorite color? That's a tough one since I really like all colors, but I guess my favorites would be lime green and orange, either together or separate!
5. Do you have any other hobbies? Yes, photography (both digital and film and I process my own black and white film). I also love to read.
6. What are your favorite yarns/fibers? Wool, wool, wool...did I mention I like wool? My favorite thing to knit is socks, so I mostly use fingering weight, and I prefer superwash. My second favorite thing to make is bags though, so DK and worsted weights have their own stash bin too...

7. What are your LEAST favorite yarns/fibers? Acrylic and acrylic blends. Although with 3 mini Minees, I must admit, they have their place, and I do use them often enough. (I'm only 1/2 a yarn snob, see? I can be practical.)

8. Are there any yarns that you’ve been eyeing and wanting to try? I'd really like to get some sport and DK superwash yarns soon to knit up some winter slipper type socks for us for around the house. We get cold tootsies when the snow falls...

9. What are you currently working on? Socks, mitts and bags. I currently have 5 pairs of socks OTN, all of which are more than 1/2 finished. I also have a 2 bags that need to be lined but they are off the needles. And, last but certainly not least, I have a pair of fingerless mitts OTN using some fabulous hand-dyed yarn I got from Lavender Diggory-Dolohov. :D

10. What is your favorite Finished Object? (Pictures are welcome.) My favorite FO would have to be the "My Heart Belongs to Edward" socks I made. Although I must say that they look much better on the oldest mini Minee than they do on me. ;)

11. Are their any knitting/crochet techniques that you would like to learn? Magic Loop!
12. What is you favorite type of book or movie? Fantasy
13. Who is your favorite person at Hogwarts? I have to pick one???
14. Favorite class and/or subject at Hogwarts? Potions...definitely potions!
15. How many family members do you have? I don't know if I can count that high! Just in my immediate family alone there are 15 of us, and that's not even counting cousins yet...
16. What is your favorite Fall activity? Hiking with the mini Minees at the Nature Center. OH...and Trick or Treating!
17. How many projects do you have on your needles/hook? Technically 6, since the two bags I have to finish are off the needles and waiting for linings. ;)
18. What is your favorite type of footwear? Socks...DUH!
19. What is your favorite beverage of choice? Sadly, Diet Coke, which I really should change in favor or more teas.
20. What is your favorite part of Half-blood Prince? I loved the parts where Harry had "lessons" with Dumbledore. I loved how uncovering Riddle's beginnings adds to the story.

See...it was a good assignment, huh? So, even if you're not a 'Puff, it might be fun for you to answer anyway and give your Spoiler a little extra "ammunition", so to speak! ;)

HSKS6 "MeMe"

2008-09-15T17:15:00.000-05:00

Potter Name: Minerva "Jane" Kwikspell

Rav ID: ttknits

I am allergic to: Zip, Zilch, Nada

Pets that I have: 2 dogs, 1 white cat with one blue eye and one green eye and a 75 gallon tank full of fish

My favorite yarn: Well...I think I might be a little biased here. ;) Seriously though, if it's fingering or DK weight and it's superwash wool of some sort, I'm generally a happy camper!

If you are a Ravenclaw, do you prefer the film colors or the book colors? I like them both, so either work for me!

My favorite flavor: Cherry

My favorite holiday: (Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas) Christmas! (Halloween is a close second though...) ;)

I would like to receive a: (Sock kit, scarf kit or yarn dyeing kit) Hmmm... That's really a hard one. I think they all sounds pretty fun! I will say though that I really do have a pretty large sock yarn stash... :-o

List your favorite brand of needles or hooks, including size and length: I really do like Knit Picks Harmony needles and would love to build up a collection of those. I use a lot of DPNs in sizes 1-3 mostly, but will use 4's for DK weight winter socks. I'd also really like to learn the magic loop method, but at this point I don't have any of the really long circs to try it out on.

Is there a brand that you are dying to try?: I've never tried Addi Turbos before and they seem to have good reviews.

I've participated in HSKS: (How many times have you participated in HSKS swaps?) Yes indeed I have! This is my 3rd term at Hogwarts. :)

Do you have a birthday during this swap? If so which day? No, no birthday for me this term. My birthday was last term. ;)

A New Term....

2008-09-09T12:24:00.002-05:00

A new term begins! Hurry!! I'm taking the train back to Hogwarts tomorrow and I couldn't be more excited. I can't wait to meet all the new Ravenclaws, and see all our returning students. Ah...how I've missed Hogwarts!

Quidditch - Round 3

2008-07-18T11:32:00.004-05:00

1. When Hagrid returns to Hogwarts after being sent to see the giants with Madame Maxime, Professor Umbridge questions him on his late return to school. She suspects that Hagrid had been to the mountains, but where does he tell her he has been?

d. South of France

2. Professor Umbridge comes to Hagrid's Hut and searches his cabin one evening (as she believes Harry, Ron and Hermoine are there visiting him at night when they are not supposed to). When she walks past the place where Harry, Ron and Hermoine are hiding under the Invisibility Cloak, Harry holds his breath. True or False?

b. False

3. A stately-looking witch in an emerald green shawl is one of the members of the Advance Guard who rescues Harry from Privet Drive. What is her name?

a. Emmeline Vance

4. What is the name of the witch who was killed two weeks after the photo of the original Order of the Phoenix was taken>

b. Marlene McKinnon

5. Which two fifth year Ravenclaw students does Dumbledore choose to be prefects?

d. Anthony Goldstein and Padma Patil

6. Which house was Rose Zeller sorted into?

d. Hufflepuff

7. What is the color of Murtlap's essence?

c. Yellow

8. Name the Ravenclaw girl who became prefect in Harry's fifth year.

b. Padma Patil

9. According to a healer's portrait at St. Mungo's hospital, which disease was Ron suffering from?

d. Spattergroit

10. Which book did Harry give Hermoine for Christmas?

a. "New Theory of Numberology"

Picture Scavenger Hunt

What movie will Robert Patterson star in this December?

TWILIGHT

It's Here!!!

2008-07-17T13:19:00.005-05:00

My kit is here, my kit here!!! Madam Ferula Finnigan sent me the most awesome package. I came home from a very long morning and the owl had left the two packages on the porch. Just the "pick me up" I needed. Just look at all the goodies!!

There was a great Harry Potter lunch box, some beautifully dyed roving which I can't wait to spin, a journal, Ravenclaw stitch markers, Size 2 DPNs, Sensational Knitted Socks, a Raven, a Phoenix, a golden snitch, Ravenclaw sock yarn, Extra Potions with Snape sock yarn, a cute little Ravenclaw box, a yarn cutter, the cutest little drawstring bag, ribbon yarn, Frog Toe Nails for my potion kit, and an grow your own enchanted castle kit.

Isn't it great? Here's some close up pics of the yarns. The pictures don't do them justice, they are gorgeous!

Thank you so much Ferula!! You are the greatest Spoiler!! I love it all - you outdid yourself. :)

My Spoilee got her kit...

2008-07-16T20:47:00.000-05:00

Yay!! My awesome spoilee, Lucretia, got her kit today. I'm so glad Seva made it there with everything for her. Of course, she was so nice to give Seva some breakfast and a nice rest before sending her on her way back to me. Seva just adores her...

Now as soon as Seva makes it back there's one more package she'll need to send to Lucretia. I'm very excited to get it to her. It's the one very special item that was made extra special, just for my super Spoilee...

Owl's Away

2008-07-11T21:31:00.002-05:00

Oh.........Seva is taking a little trip to the West Coast. She left today. I'm so excited for her to get there. :) Unfortunately she is going to have to turn right around and go straight back once she gets home. One of the items that I was putting in the kit was still a bit, well ummm, sticky I guess you could say. So, that will just be a bonus that comes a bit later.

Kerttu's for Miranda

2008-07-04T23:46:00.000-05:00

The Dueling Club socks are complete...WHEW! That was some very serious knitting going on there while trying to socialize with the family. I even had to knit at the Muggle Fourth of July Parade this morning! But, here they are:

I am SO hoping that these will fit Miranda. We have nearly the same size feet, and the pattern as knit has some fairly good stretch, so I'm crossing my fingers. Seva will be heading off with these for her in the morning.

GO!!!!!!!

2008-07-03T09:44:00.000-05:00

Ok...the pattern has been posted and we're off! I'm taking a little vacation from Hogwarts this week, so I'm surrounded by family and knitting time is going to be tight, but I'll do my best! I can't let my partner down!!

We're knitting Kerttu Socks, which look very cute. I think I would adjust the pattern someone for myself, but for the purposes of the battle, I'll be knitting to specs. I do hope I'll be able to knit up a pair of socks Miranda will love!

On Your Marks, Get Set...

2008-07-02T22:41:00.000-05:00

The gauge and yarn requirements have been posted for the next round of The Dueling Club. We will be using Size 4-6 needles this round and either worsted or DK weight yarn. The pattern comes out in the morning, 7:00 AM PDT. I'm battling Miranda Moonstone this round, so Seva will have a long way to travel once the socks are complete. This is going to be so fun!

Mosaic Meme

2008-06-26T20:27:00.004-05:00

Go to Flickr.com and type your answers to the following questions (one at a time) into the Search Box.

The questions are:

1. What is your first name?
2. What is your favourite food?
3. What high school did you go to?
4. What is your favourite colour?
5. Who is your celebrity crush?
6. Favourite drink?
7. Dream vacation?
8. Favourite dessert?
9. What you want to be when you grow up?
10. What do you love most in life?
11. One word to describe you.
12. Your flickr name.

Choose 1 image from the FIRST page of results, remember the image you choose doesn't have to be exactly what you were looking for - just the image you like best from the first page.

Copy your URLs to the Mosaic Maker here and publish your mosaic to your blog.

I was tagged by Miranda Moonstone. I will tag Cecilia Kettleburn, Ingrid ze Insightful, and Olive Bladvak.

They made it!!

2008-06-23T19:48:00.001-05:00

Seva soared back in through the open window of the Common Room this afternoon carrying a piece of parchment from Jalanna! She said the socks made it! Huzzah! Jalanna said she can't wait to wear them. I'm so glad she liked them. How exciting to advance. Now next round I will be dueling a fellow Ravenclaw. How fun will that be?

Misguided Owl?

2008-06-22T18:44:00.000-05:00

Well...I simply don't understand it! Seva must have gotten turned around somehow. I fitted her with a tracking device when I tied the package containing Round 2's Duel Socks, but she seems to have taken a wrong turn somewhere. I checked her tracking number on the muggle internet, and it revealed that the parcel has been missent. How very, very odd! I hope Seva turns herself around soon!

Quidditch Round 2

2008-06-20T23:24:00.000-05:00

1. At the beginning of the year feast, who is the only person who rudely interrupts Dumbledore during his speech?

Professor Umbridge

2. Off what street is the alley where Harry first met Sirius?

Magnolia Crescent

3. Tonks' mother had two sisters, both pure-bloods, and both left on the Black Family Tree. What are their names?

Narcissa and Bellatrix

4. What spell are the students studying in McGonalgall's class when Umbridge is doing her inspection?

The Vanishing Spell

5. Who comes to warn Harry and the rest of Dumbledore's Army that Umbridge and her group of followers are coming to break up their meeting?

Dobby

6. Who are the members of the Order that met Harry Potter in the Dursely's house during the summer before his fifth year?

Alastor Moody
Nymphadora Tonks
Kingsley Shacklebolt
Emphias Doge
Dedalus Diggle
Remus Lupin
Emmeline Vance
Sturgis Podmore
Hestia Jones

7. Moody used the Disillusionment Charm on Harry.

Yes

8. Which of these Death Eaters is Sirius related to?

All of these

9. At what age did Sirius leave his home?

16

10. How many of the original Order members were killed?

8

Picture Scavenger Hunt

Owl's Away...

2008-06-19T11:53:00.000-05:00

I finished the Duel Club socks!! We were to knit the River Rapid Socks by Sockbug and they really were fun! I used Zitron Cara for these, and was suprised that the striping was subtle and nice once they were knit up. This pair of socks did knit up rather quickly. I'm not sure if it was the pattern, or the thicker yarn. I will definitely knit these again. Next time I may add the approriate number of stitches, go down a needle size, and use fingering weight yarn though....

What do you think? I sure hope Jalanna likes them!!

It begins...

2008-06-16T22:52:00.000-05:00

The duel is on!! The Headmistress has posted the pattern and we are off and knitting! I do hope I do well. From the looks of it, it's going to be a great pattern. I hope my clumsy sticks are able to do it justice!

Dueling...Again

2008-06-15T17:46:00.000-05:00

I strolled into the Common Room after lounging in the sun on the grounds this afternoon to see a group of excited students huddled around the announcement board. It seems Professor Wartbobble has announced the yarn, gauge and needle requirements for the next round of The Dueling Club.

I hurried over and pulled a quill and scrap of parchment out of my bag to write it all down. With our Quidditch match this week, and all the extra practice, I was going to need a time turner to get a good jump on that Duel!

Ravenclaw House Quiz

2008-06-14T07:24:00.003-05:00

More homework for the week. Boy that Wisteria sure does keep us on our toes, doesn't she?

1. It's changing out there. Just like last time. There's a storm coming, Harry. And we all best be ready when she comes.

Hagrid

2. Dumbledore's Army was about doing something real. Or was that all just words to you?

Neville

3. Dementors in Little Winging? Whatever next? The whole world's going topsy-turvy.

Mrs. Fig

4. The mind is not a book, to be opened at will and examined at leisure. Thoughts are not etched on the inside of skulls, to be perused by an invader. The mind is a complex and many-layered thing.

Professor Snape

5. Face it, Petunia. Our boy has gone lumpy.

Uncle Vernon

6.You're a fool, Harry Potter, and you will lose everything.

Voldemort

7. Practicing is good, but there's something else that's even more important: believing in yourself. Look at it this way: every wizard in history has started out as nothing more than we are now -- students. If they can do it, why not us?

Harry

8. I WILL have order!

Dolores Umbridge

9. When are you going to get it into your head? We're in this together.

Hermione

10. When all this is over we'll be a proper family, you'll see.

Sirius Black

11. That's right. Anyway, my mum always said things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.

Luna

12. You may not like him, Minister, but you can't deny: Dumbledore's got style.

Kingsley Shacklebolt

13. Who wants to watch me take off Snivelly's trousers?

James Potter

14. One person can't feel all that, they'd explode!

Ron

15. They're very clean, these Muggles. It's unnatural.

Nymphadora Tonks

16. How dare you speak his name! YOU FILTHY HALF BLOOD!

Bellatrix Lestrange

17. Just because you can use magic now does not mean you have to whip your wands out for everything.

Mrs. Weasley

18. Did you actually believe, or are you truly naive enough to think that children stood a chance against us? I'll make this simple, Potter. Give me the prophecy now, or watch your friends die.

Lucius Malfoy

19. You sort of start thinking anything's possible if you've got enough nerve.

Harry Potter

20. Ah, I thought we might hit this little snag. You seem to be laboring under the delusion that I am going to -- what is the phrase? -- come quietly.

Dumbledore

Special Supplies...

2008-06-10T19:17:00.000-05:00

I took an unexpected trip into Hogsmeade today for some supplies. I have an idea for something I'd like to include in my spoilee's kit, and I was beginning to obsess over it. I couldn't have found a more perfect object once I got there! Tonight I'll begin working on it. I can't wait to see how it all comes out...

Dragon Eggs...

2008-06-09T08:10:00.003-05:00

What a great trip to Hogsmeade this weekend! The weather was dreadful! As I was sitting inside Honeydukes looking out the window at the sheets of rain falling down, I saw one of the Slytherin girls heading into one of the caves at the base of the Mountains. Boy, she sure had the right idea!! I decided to do some exploring of my own, and followed suit. Just inside the entrance of the cave, I ended up finding a cache of Dragon eggs! I couldn't wait to tell Hagrid!

I found this little green egg in a patch of grass and flowers. I thought this was rather odd since there was no sun at all to be seen inside the cave. I carefully picked it up and placed it in my satchel and continued walking on.

A little further into the cave, along the wall, I found this black egg, which had a strange green glow around it. I stared at it from all angles before finally deciding to pick it up. I already had one egg, but I figured Hagrid would love to help me hatch them, so I also picked this egg up and placed it very carefully next to the other egg inside my satchel.

I had been exploring for some time, so I decided to head back to the entrance. On the way back out I noticed a pile of pebbles, and mixed in with the flat-colored stones was another green dragon egg.

Obviously I couldn't leave it there to die, so I took it too, and placed it next to the others in my satchel.

I went straight back to the grounds and pounded on the door to Hagrid's hut. He was delighted to see the treasures and was all too eager to help me have a go at hatching them. He told me that unborn dragons are actually ready to hatch early on in their development cycle. However, they choose to remain in the safety of their own egg rather than leave it. If a developed dragon is forced out of its egg prematurely, it will usually run away or hide immediately. So, these dragon eggs will need some tender loving care from other human hands if they are to hatch properly and stick around. Hagrid estimated that they'd hatch in about 7 days.

Now, to hope Wisteria, Fluer and Luveday won't mind having a few dragon eggs around the dorm...

Ravenclaw House Quiz

2008-06-06T22:59:00.002-05:00

Oh my! Wisteria has posted a pop quiz!! Oh how I love homework...

1. Which Ravenclaw does not like games?

Miranda Moonstone

2. Who is taking a course in Remedical Magical Symphony?

Cecilia Kettleburn

3. Who got 3 puncture wounds in the bottom of her foot by stepping on a hair brush?

Ophelia Hopkirk

4. Who was formerly employed by the Ministry of Magic?

Emma Diggory

5. Who has been enrolled in a Magic Fibres Class in order to learn to knit?

Stuart Cauldwell

6. Whose mother is a squib?

OH! That's me!!!

7. Whose father is an auror?

Chrysta the Cursed

8. Whose room smells like wet wool most of the time?

Elanor Cadogan, Crysta the Cursed & Emma Diggory's

9. What Ravenclaws spent time in the infirmary for allergies?

Wisteria Lovegoods & Agatha Vablatsky

10. Whose wand is made of holly with a kelpie feather?

Hydrangea MacDuff

11. Whose mother was a Ravenclaw and father was a Hufflepuff when they met at Hogwarts?

Olive Bladvak

12. Whose silencing potion backfired?

Emma Scrimgeour (but Andromache and Patonga helped!)

13. Who has purple hair?

Andromache Tonks

14. Whose son attends Hogwarts?

Emma Wigworthy (but Emma Diggory's is at Hogwarts Preschool)

Hogsmeade Weekend

2008-06-04T11:53:00.004-05:00

The Headmistresses has announced a Hogsmeade weekend. After feeling dreadful at the start of the week I am so exicted to hear it! Tea at Madam Puddifoot's, yummy treats from Honeydukes and some practical jokes at Zonko's. What could be better? I do hope the weather will cooperate. It really has been so hit or miss lately.

Visiting Madam Pomfrey...

2008-06-02T12:45:00.002-05:00

I am just feeling miserable today. I didn't get nearly enough sleep, and I can't figure out why. I was plenty tired last night, but it was just not happening! At first I thought maybe it was having Wisteria back in the dorm. She does talk in her sleep. (I'll spare you the details...) But, alas, this morning got out of bed feeling terrible. I tried to make it through classes, but half-way into Herbology this morning I knew it was no use. Sneezing, itchy eyes...UGH! So it's off to visit the infirmary for me!

She Got It!!

2008-06-01T18:15:00.005-05:00

See, last week I made a little something for my Spoilee, Lucretia. First I used my wand to carve some mini sock blockers out of wood, punched a few holes and put some links through and attached a keyring. Then I took some of my favorite Slytherin yarn and knit a mini Slytherin sock. Then from the great meme in her Hogwarts diary, I discovered that she really liked Cadbury candy bars. I cast Accio and the candy bar flew right in through the window. Then I dressed her tiny wooden foot and popped everything in an envelope along with a card. Seva was beside herself the entire time...dancing back and forth across the desk. She really seems to fancy Lucretia - I think she must spoil Seva... Anyway, once the envelope was securely fastened to Seva's leg, off she flew! And...she arrived at Lucretia's yesterday with the little goodies.

She sent Seva back full of owl treats and carrying a lovely note. She was pleasantly surprised, and I was so happy to hear it! :)

Quidditch

2008-05-31T07:45:00.002-05:00

The Snitch is scheduled to be released in a few short hours! The Great Hall is all a buzz... Who will prevail? Will it be the Sly Slytherin? The Loyal Hufflepuff? The Brave Gryffindor? Or perhaps, as it should be, those with Wit Beyond Measure...The Ravenclaw?

SOAR RAVENCLAW!!!

Dueling...

2008-05-30T22:47:00.003-05:00

The patterns were released yesterday for The Dueling Club. I am really wondering how far my opponent is with her socks. I know how far I am, but has she knit more than I have? Less? Will it be a draw? I have to say I'm not terribly thrilled with the pattern. The heel is too stubby for the sock so I've had to adjust that to ensure that it will fit my opponent when it arrives. I guess I'm also just really sick of knitting ribbing! I guess it will be a long while before I knit a ribbed sock after this pair...

Quidditch - Round One

2008-05-29T22:07:00.000-05:00

It's time for Quidditch!! The cheers of my Housemates, the roar of the crowd! What great fun!!!

1. Which of Arabella Figg's cats ran out from under the car?

Mr. Tibbles

2. Which of the following is NOT one of Albus Dumbledore's middle names?

Ignatius

3. Which educational decree introduced a High Inquisitor to Hogwarts?

4. Apart from Harry, Ron and Hermione, who was the first person to enter the Hog's Head that showed an interest in Harry's Defence Against the Dark Arts classes?

Neville Longbottom

5. In the first Quidditch match of the year which player attempted to score first?

Angelina Johnson

6. What kind of bush does Harry hide behind to listen to the news?

A hydrangea bush

7. Why is Mundungus Fletcher disguised as a woman when he witnesses the DA (Dumbledore's Army) meeting in the Hog's Head pub?

He was banned from the Hog’s Head pub 20 years ago.

8. When Harry and Cho go on their first date to Madam Puddifoot's in Hogsmeade, what is it decorated with for Valentine's Day?

Golden cherubs and pink confetti

9. How old is Sturgis Podmore and where does he live?

38 and number 2 Laburnum Gardens Clapham

10. What did Fred and George Weasley do to Montague?

Forced him head-first into a Vanishing Cabinet on the first floor.

Picture Scavenger Hunt

Scrolls Away...

2008-05-28T08:07:00.004-05:00

Before heading down to breakfast this morning, I sent Seva off with another weekly scroll for Lucretia. She really seems to like my Spoilee. Everytime I set down to pen a scroll to Lucretia, she is bouncing away along the desk just waiting for me to tie it to her leg so she can take off. Lucretia must give her great treats!

Starting The Day Out With A Bang!

2008-05-28T06:56:00.007-05:00

Can you honestly believe that roommate of mine? I swear Wisteria needs to learn how to use the Muffliato spell at the very least! She woke me up in the middle of the night trotting into the dorm after, what I found earlier from Ferula, was a date of sorts with Professor Lufkin! Can you honestly believe it? I mean, I'm all for having a little fun, but come on! Some of us have classes early in the morning.

Speaking of classes...did you SEE who is filling in for Professor McGonagall? Hubba Hubba! His name is Professor Hennessey and he's positively perfect in every way! I wonder if Professor Wartbobble needs this Head Girl to take him under her wing and show him around. I certainly wouldn't complain if I were given that task! And...he's a registered Animagus. I understand that is quite tricky magic. I wonder if he'd be open to some private lessons...I think I'll have to linger behind today after class and ask.

Meme Minee!

2008-05-27T15:05:00.005-05:00

My Spoilee has this little meme posted to her blog, and since it was such a wealth of information for me (absolutely perfect little Spoilee that she is) I thought I'd have to try to see if I could fill in all the blanks myself...

1. What was I doing 10 years ago?

Ten years ago I was a brand new Mom to 2-week-old boy/girl twins so I was doing all those new Mommy things: feeding, burping, changing dirty diapers, and not getting much sleep. (x2!)

2. What are 5 things on my to-do list today?

- Chaperone a field trip
- Grocery Shop
- Finish the laundry
- Finish the body of my HSKS5 Bag Entry
- Get a car wash

3. Snacks I enjoy...

- Kit Kats
- Cheez Its (White Cheddar)
- Grapefruits
- Chips & Salsa
- And like Lucretia...PICKLES!!

4. Things I would do if I were a billionaire....

- Establish ridiculously large trust funds for the mini Kwikspells
- Make a LARGE donation to the Lupus Foundation of America
- Make an equally LARGE donation to the American Heart Association
- Quit the Muggle Rat-race
- Buy a big parcel of land on a lake
- Build a house from scratch on said parcel
- Retire in said new house on said parcel with plenty of sticks and string...

5. Places I've lived

All Wisconsin...All The Time

6. Jobs I've had.

- Candy Maker
- Cashier
- Waitress
-Legal Secretary
- IT Help Desk Lead
- Maid
- Freelance Website/Graphics Designer
- Eye Technician/Coder
- MOM!

7. Peeps I want to know more about...

All my HSKS pals. Yes...Even the Slytherins!

HSKS Bag Contest

2008-05-26T22:09:00.000-05:00

So I completely changed what I wanted to do for the HSKS Bag Contest after discovering CABLES! So, it's the 11th Hour, and I've started an entirely new bag...

I've got the base and half of the body of the bag finished as of now, so I should be able to finish up the bag tomorrow, get the pattern written, and finalize everything for submission - on time - by May 30th!

I did see that the Headmistress "might" be a bit behind on her bag though...I wonder if there will be a small extension charm coming. (I secretly hope so...that will give me time to knit it again to ensure there's no mistakes!)

My First Cables...

2008-05-25T08:15:00.003-05:00

Well, everyone told me that cables were easy, but to me, they sure didn't look it. As such, I've been putting off trying the technique for ages. Last night, however, after a long day working on the grounds of the family property up to the North I sat down with some yarn, sticks and a binder full of patterns I have been dreaming about. There's this little cabled clutch I've really wanted to make, so I stopped at that page, and decided to try to swatch it up. I was amazed at how right everyone was! Cables are easy, and so very pretty, I can't wait to add some cables to my next pair of socks I make! What do you think of my first attempt?

The funny thing was that swatching stopped just short of how long the piece for the clutch actually needed to be, so I just kept on going and finished it off. It took just over an hour, and once I get back to the dorm and can block it, I'll just have to seam up the sides, line it and add the wood for stability. I'll be sure to post a picture of the final clutch once I'm back at Hogwarts, along with a link to the pattern. I'd highly recommend it for a first attempt at cables!

Care of Magical Creatures

2008-05-23T19:10:00.000-05:00

Hagrid needed some extra help with some of the children from the Village. He'd planned a trip to a Muggle Zoo to teach them all about the animals of the Muggle world. Since I didn't have any classes today, I quickly volunteered. I mean, who wouldn't want to learn about Muggle animals?

Each of us was paired up with a few of the "Wizards-To-Be", given a list of trivia questions to find the answers too, and sent out into the Zoo. We really saw some fascinating things...

They had a tiger there and he was really big! He was eating a very small piece of meat. If we hadn't been surrounded by Muggles, I'd have cast Engorgio on it for him...

There was some construction going on at the Zoo since they are building some new exhibits, but they had most of the bigger birds grouped together. Look at this pelican! He was so big, and we could get SO close that he scared some little Muggle boys...

There were also some beautiful Peacocks there! They were just strutting, in all their glory, right out in the open. I took a few shots for Fleur...

This gorgeous bird came right up behind us while we were taking a lunch break and starting calling for his friends...

These goats live in the Mountains in their natural habitat.

The meerkats were some of my favorites. There were 4 new babies this spring, and they were so playful! It was so cute to watch them.

This Mother Goose had nested right out in the open. It was amazing how close we were to her. I bet she won't be so nice once those eggs hatch...

We stopped in at the petting zoo as well. Look at these little kids begging for some morsels...

The trip was really fun! After we finished up at the Muggle Zoo, we walked along the lake to a Muggle Park, and the kids played for a while before we went back to the Village. They all had a great time! I think sometime when the weather is a little bit warming we'll have to don our Muggle clothes and venture back there...

The Dueling Club...

2008-05-22T20:01:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited! Sign-ups for the Dueling Club were being taken last week, and I made the cut! I simply cannot wait to get going. Today the materials needed for the duel were released. Here's what we'll be needing:

100 gm sock yarn. Fleece Artist's Merino Sock yarn suggested, but not mandatory. Any sock yarn with 28-30 stitch gauge is fine.
1 set of 2.5 mm double-pointed needles.
Stitch holder

I hope match-ups will be announced sometime before the pattern, which is scheduled to be released next Thursday. I'd love to be able to have time to contact my duel-mate to see what size I should make. How dreadful would it be to go through all that charming and send someone the wrong size socks! I shudder to think!

Rainbow Explosion!

2008-05-21T16:37:00.002-05:00

Oh poor, poor Wisteria!! She finally returned from the infirmary this morning, only to walk into the dorm (still looking positively dreadful) to find me up to my armpits in cauldrons! I was even using hers! Sshhh! Don't tell! I was brushing up for a potions exam that's coming up, and I had cauldrons, colors, and fibers flying all over the place. I know I must have scared the socks off Luveday, but she's a first year, I guess she needs to get used to things in the Wizarding world sooner or later... I was quite surprised by her reaction actually. I remember how fascinating everyone was for me when I was new...I think I'd have had my face right up in the mess trying to figure it all out!

In any event, with dear Wisteria looking like she wanted to take a sleeping draught, I decided it best to finish up quickly, hang my fibers, and cast Scourgify. Well, I cast it on my mess anyway...Fleur is on her own with all those bloody feathers!

I love to get Owls...

2008-05-20T21:00:00.000-05:00

I received a return owl from my Spoilee tonight! I was so excited to hear from her. You know, she's a first year and in Slytherin, so I rarely see her around the castle at all. As well I thought, she's been positively overwhelmed with her coursework, and trying not to get lost on the way to lessons! It sounds as though she's really got a great start on the kit to her Spoilee as well. She is spoiling a Gryffindor, so the colors are neither of our favorites, but she's still having fun with it!

And...she's managed to avoid Peeves altogether, which is great!

Wisteria, Madam Pomfrey & the Cryptogram...

2008-05-19T19:28:00.000-05:00

Poor, poor Wisteria! She's so miserable at the moment with everything in bloom on the grounds. Herbology must be murder for her! Luveday and I have finally convinced her to go see Madam Pompfrey. I hope she'll be able to fix Wisteria up quickly!

With Wisteria up in the infirmary, that leaves the House homework this week to me, so I've posted a Cryptogram. I had to leave for classes so early today that I had made a mistake and a few clever little Ravenclaws had owls waiting for me when I arrived back for a late lunch break. Seems one of my symbols was askew, which caused a word to be spelled incorrectly. So I scrambled to post a correction for that before heading back out for more lessons.

Boy...2nd year is tougher than the first! Whew!

Scrolls to the Spoilee...

2008-05-18T07:45:00.005-05:00

Last night I sent Seva off with another scroll for Lucretia. It's weird that I haven't seen her around the castle too much. I know we are in different Houses, and I'm sure that's got a lot to do with it. Also, since she's a 1st year, we don't have any of the same classes. But, that's alright. Seva loves to take flight with any kind of message, and she was all to happy to hold out her leg for me to tie on this scroll as well. I do hope the term is going well for her so far. I know how overwhelming it can be in the beginning, especially first year!

Notice on the Common Room Board

2008-05-17T14:51:00.004-05:00

Today when Wisteria and I got back from lunch in The Great Hall, we noticed a gaggle of 1st years crowded around the Notice Board. A notice had been posted to the Dorm Assignments List. It seems that Professor Flitwick wants to promote improved relations among dormies, and there will be an ongoing contest throughout the term to encourage this.

Obviously Professor Flitwick wants us to nurture our creative side here... There's just no possible way for a Ravenclaw to have an edge in this one. Themes are only announced 3 times over the course of the term, and only antics that happened before the theme is revealed are eligible.

There's simply no possible way to find the way to win in any book on the grounds. That Professor Flitwick sure is a clever wizard!

Birthday Fun!!

2008-05-16T22:56:00.001-05:00

What a wonderful day today!! It's honestly the best birthday I've had in a long time. I got so many great wishes from all my friends here at Hogwarts, and I got a special pass from the Headmistress to meet my father in Hogsmeade for dinner, cake and butterbeer! It was great fun!

After dinner Dad took me to Zonko's for some fun, and after one last stop at Honeyduke's, he walked me back up to the castle. Now to try and tip-toe up to the dorm and slip into bed without Peeves spotting me or waking up any of my Wisteria, Luveday, or Fleur...

A History of Minee...

2008-05-14T19:47:00.000-05:00

Well our dear Prefect, Wisteria, has assigned homework for the week. We are to write a biography so that our fellow students can get to know us a little better. With all the coursework this week, it gets worse in 2nd year, I find myself already feeling the pressure of the term. Ever the Ravenclaw, however, I'm up for the academic challenge. So, without further ado, a bio for your reading pleasure...

My name is Minerva Kwikspell. I'm a 2nd year Ravenclaw, and all my friends call me Minee. At Hogwarts, I run a small Kandy and Konfection Shoppe out of Ravenclaw Tower. They let us out to Hogsmeade so infrequently, so rather than order by owl, I make goodies here for everyone. It's great fun!

My father, Thadius Kwikspell, is the famous creator of Kwikspell: A Correspondence Course in Beginner's Magic. My mother, Elladora Filch, neice of the caretaker Argus Filch, was a Squib. She is the reason my father set to pen the Course. You see, my father was so in love with my mother...From the first moment he saw her. He tells me often that it was love at very first sight. Her parents didn't want her to associate with other Wizarding children, as they saw her lack of spectacular magical abilities as extremely embarrassing. My father never cared. Every chance he got he'd send her owls in secret, and he spent most of his Holidays from Hogwarts with her. When finally he was of age he whisked her away, in a highly romantic fashion, and made her his bride. It was then that he started work on the Course.

Unfortunately, my mother died when I was 10, a year before I came to Hogwarts. It was a very tragic accident. You see our home sits on a hill near the sea. It's quite beautiful really. One glorious summer day, my mother was out in the garden picking vegetables. Unexpectedly, and just as my mother's apron was filled with produce, a flock of gulls came flying loudly over the rocks from below. My mother lost her footing in her surprise and fell over the edge of the cliff. My father has not picked up a quill since.

Then, of course, the following summer I received my letter to Hogwarts, Dad took me to Diagon Alley to purchase my supplies, and I caught the train on Platform 9 and 3/4. The rest, as they say, is history!

Owls from the Headmistress

2008-05-12T05:20:00.002-05:00

Well...my beautiful Eurasian Eagle Owl, Seva, soared in today with my class list for the new term. I'm thrilled with my selections, and can't wait to start! Here's what the term looks like for me:

Astronomy
Charms
Defense Against the Dark Arts
Herbology
History of Magic
Potions
Transfiguration
Ancient Runes
Arithmancy

There is also a new DADA instructor this term, Professor Cornelius Lufkin. I must say he looks as though he's spent the last good, long while in Azkaban! Take a look for yourself...

I daresay, the poor man really could do with a bit of sun. I hope his lessons don't turn out to be as scary!

A New Student to Spoil...

2008-05-11T18:27:00.000-05:00

The Hufflepuff Prefect, Lavender Ackerly, send an owl late last night to inform me that I will be in charge of spoiling First Year Slytherin, Lucretia Plunkett, this term. How wonderful! As soon as I finished reading the letter I sat down at my desk, pulled out a blank sheet of parchment, quill and ink, and set to writing Lucretia to welcome her to Hogwarts and let her know that I'd be sending Seva her way from time to time.

I'm looking forward to getting to know her. I wonder if she is as excited for the term to begin tomorrow as I am?

Owl's Away...Again

2008-05-10T07:39:00.003-05:00

Well today Seva leaves with an Angel Package for Matilda Edgecombe. It seems that her partner for HSKS4 decided not to send her the swap it after all, and she was left without one. So I've volunteered to get a package off to her. Here's a sneak peek...

The new term for HSKS5 starts on Monday, so I wanted to get this off to her before then. Truth be told, this is being sent without the bag, unfortunately. The bag I knit to go along with this kit was the unfortunate victim of a felting spell gone terribly wrong, so I will need to start at the beginning there and send it separately. I hope she will enjoy at least this much though until then. I know it's no fun to be left out, and she's ever so nice! :)

Overcome with Emotion!

2008-05-09T18:39:00.016-05:00

I've been sitting here for more than 3 hours, trying to find the right words... I am speechless - so overcome with emotion! A large, tired owl swooped in this afternoon with a heavy package. The first thing I did was attend to the little fellow. After a long drink of water and a few owl treats, he was settled in nicely on our perch with his head under his wing for a quick nap. So I turned my attention to the package.

The card right on top there was from our dear Ravenclaw Prefect, and reading it started a stream of tears that grew stronger as I unpacked the box, which had clearly been the victim of an Undetectable Extension Charm. It seems that some of my dear Ravenclaw Sisters pooled efforts to put together this absolutely tremendous angel package.

On top I found a marvelous knitting bag. It's beautiful! It has wonderful pockets and is made from gorgeous fabric. In the bag I found some great Disney goodies for the mini Kwikspells, a brand new Tarot set which I can't wait to open, and a brand new wand! 10-3/4"...made of Holly with a Gryffon Feather core.

Under the bag I found a series of wrapped packages.

Standard Book of Spells

Two beautiful sets of stitch markers

A muggle book about knitting 2 socks at once. I can hardly wait to study this one! There was also a lovely postcard inside from Lavender. I simply must make my way there some day to see this wonderful Museum!

An HP dishcloth, complete with snitch, which is too lovely to use! Wrapped with it were to additional sets of stitch markers which are just gorgeous! One in the movie colors and one in the book colors.

A Ravenclaw accessory case which will be a lovely addition to the new knitting bag.

It was filled with goodies! Inside was a tape measure, stitch holder, point protectors, tapestry needles, notebook and scissors!

Under this was still another treasure! I found this trunk under all the wonderful stuff I had already unwrapped. (I told you there must have been an Extension Charm involved...)

Look at all the wonders that were inside! First off there were more heartfelt cards inside which encouraged additional water-works. One from Centy and one from Sera. There was also a gorgeous Fawkes clutch, DPNs, 2 sets of circulars which will come in very handy when studying that Muggle knitting text, some awesome handpainted Ravenclaw knitting needles (straights and DPN's), Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Multi in Jean, Bertie's Botts Every Flavor Beans, Sherbet Lemons, Mint Humbugs, Dark Chocolate Roasted Almonds, 2 more sets of wonderful stitch markers, the cutest note cards, 2 hanging basket kits that will be beautiful this term outside our dorm window, and a Harry Potter yarn-keeper which houses a gorgeous skein of Esmie's creation, Yarns by Carma, worsted hand painted yarn in the colorway Pink Slaw.

I am truly awe struck by this unbelievable gift! I simply can't find the words to thank you. You are truly a group of amazing women, and I feel so privileged to call you friends. My dear Ravenclaw Sisters!

Spoilee Spoils...

2008-05-01T18:58:00.000-05:00

Look at these wonderful goodies!! Elanor's owl swooped in today with the greatest package! Seems she heard the rumor that my Spoiler disappeared from Hogwarts without a trace so she sent along a "pick-me-up". And pick me up it did! I can hardly wait to start the potion making I need to get done this weekend. It's going to be so much more fun with these great new supplies!

And wait until Professor Sprout sees all my new flowers... Thank you SO much Elanor! You are the best Spoilee a girl could ever have!! :)

Caught the Portkey!!

2008-04-30T05:12:00.002-05:00

Rah Rah Ravenclaw!! I caught the portkey in the weeeeeeee hours to HSKS5. Hurray! I can hardly wait for all the fun to begin. Those of us that didn't miss their portkey sat in the Great Hall, drank butterbeer and fire whiskey and caught up after our brief break from Hogwarts.

This is going to be a GREAT term!

Esmie is a NAUGHTY witch!!

2008-04-26T13:21:00.004-05:00

An owl flew in yesterday bearing the unmistakable smell of Iced Caramel Clouds... It soared overhead and dropped a puffy little envelope in my lap before resting on the perch and taking a long drink. I tossed him a few treats, and tore open the envelope. You will not believe what I found!!!

Inside the envelope was a "Thank You" card, and inside that was a beautiful pair of Ravenclaw earrings and a Muggle AMEX gift card. The card came with a curse though...I was warned that using the Muggle card for "responsible and/or practical" purposes would result in the card "sprouting wings, growing fangs and biting your nose!" (I think Esmie must be practicing up for her stint in Slytherin!)

A huge heartfelt Thank You to you Esmie!!! HUGS!!!

Post-Term Potions

2008-04-20T13:41:00.006-05:00

As promised, I dyed a hank of Ravenclaw Sock Yarn this weekend for Cecilia Kettleburn. Cecilia scored the most points on the Ravenclaw Riddles this term, and the prize was hand-dyed yarn.

I wasn't sure if I wanted to dye two colors so she'd have bronze for her cuff, heel and toe with blue for the main sock, or if I wanted to do self-striping. In the end I took the extra time and created some self-striping. This will have bars of blue and bronze inside narrower stripes of white. I never use any sort of chemicals when I dye, so sometimes you have to be creative to get just the right color. The "bronze" has been over-dyed twice to achieve what I thought looked like a good bronze. Cecilia does prefer the book colors, so hopefully these will work for her.

I was going to wait to post about this until after she'd received her goodies, but since she wanted a sneak peek I told her I'd post now. So...here's just one little picture of the yarn as it's drying. Hopefully she'll like it! I can't wait to see the socks when they're done.

New at Kwikspells...

2008-04-18T19:05:00.003-05:00

I think I will spend the Break working on some new items to carry at Kwikspells. Today I was really in the mood form some pie. Since I love chocolate, caramel, nuts and pudding, I decided a pie made out of these things would really hit the spot. You serve this frozen, sort of like an ice cream pie... YUM!! Anyone want a slice?

Post-Term Correspondence

2008-04-07T20:55:00.003-05:00

Well, I've decided to go to my famous father for some advice. He is, after all, a master at correspondence. He's given me sound advice, as always, and I'm on my way to creating some great correspondence of my own.

I've received some wonderful photos and biographies from the great girls in my House, so I'm putting together a Yearbook for the term. It's coming along quite nicely. I'm looking to finish it up later this week, and publish and distribute it to all in Ravenclaw. Anyone else want in? ;0)

Owl Trouble...

2008-04-06T07:49:00.004-05:00

I received word today from Tuney. Seems her owl is in the infirmary! Oh No!! I do hope everything turns out alright for her. In the meantime, I'll have some fun checking out all the kits that are flying through the air. :)

Seva Soars!

2008-04-04T12:45:00.000-05:00

And away she goes... Seva left this morning on her way to the land of 10,000 Lakes. I am so excited for her to find my Spoilee with her package full of goodies. Now I get to sit and bite my nails while I anxiously await hearing that Seva made it safe and sound...

I do hope my Spoilee likes her kit as much as I liked putting it together. :)

Preparing My Owl...

2008-04-01T20:47:00.002-05:00

Oh that great big heavy kit I put together for my Spoilee is all ready to go. I just need to prepare my owl! I will be sending Seva on her way Friday morning with the package. I really hope my Spoilee will like it. It was so much fun to put together!

Now...for a little break before next term. :)

Kit Preparations for my Spoilee

2008-03-20T07:02:00.004-05:00

Well, I'm nearly there! I have just about everything wrapped up for my Spoilee's kit. I'm hoping to get it all packed up today and send Seva on her way with it. I would have loved for it to reach my Secret Spoilee before Easter, but it just wasn't to be. I do hope that she will love it as much as I've loved putting it together for her!

I can't wait to post pictures!

Final Ravenclaw Assignment

2008-03-18T21:43:00.004-05:00

The end of the term is drawing near. It has been such wonderful fun being at Hogwarts this year. I've made such great new friends, and I hope I will see them all back at school next term after break!

As the End of Term Feast creeps ever closer, we Ravenclaws need to get the rest of our assignments in...

1. Who loves containers of all sorts? Esmie Beanswallow

2. Who dyed her fingers blue? Lavender Ackerly

3. Who is related to William Shakespeare? Celestina Cadogan

4. Who wants to own an alpaca farm? Victoria Black

5. Who hates carrots? Selina Starfire

6. Who is from the Muggle town of Bagshot in Surrey? Patonga Pinkstone

7. Who was searching for radishes in the winter? Madam Ferula McGonagall

8. Who got a gift certificate to a LYS from a Slytherin boy for Valentine's Day? Cecilia Kettleburn

9. Who discovered ghosts and house elves drinking tea in the Great Hall at midnight? Ophelia Hopkirk

10. Who took an extra credit class called Muggle Fantasy Literature? Selina Starflame

11. Who attended a Muggle music convention? Patonga Pinkstone

12. Who taught herself to purl backwards? Sera Starfire

13. Who sports Ravenclaw Spirit socks? Hey...that's ME! ;o)

14. Who would like to work in Muggle Relations after graduation? Allitrya Spelling

15. Whose Mum is named Henrietta? Avada Finch-Fletchley

QUIDDITCH - Round 3

2008-03-14T20:57:00.002-05:00

1. When Rita Skeeter prints a bad articles about Hagrid in the Daily Prophet, which Professor teaches Hagrid's Care of Magical Creatures class while he is away?

a. Professor Trisonikly
b. Professor Snape
c. Professor Grubbly-Plank
d. Professor Meshdeh

2. What was the article Rita Skeeter wrote about Hagrid called?

a. The son of Fridwolfa the Giantess
b. The Truth About Rubeus Hagrid
c. Dumbledore's Giant Mistake
d. Half Giant at Hogwarts

3. When the school champions were being chosen from the Goblet of Fire, whose name came out first?

a. Fleur Delacour
b. Viktor Krum
c. Cedric Diggory
d. Harry Potter

4. What is the spell Ludo bagman says to magically magnify his voice when he commentates?

a. Sonorus
b. Sonafy
c. Lumos
d. Sonatus

5. What kind of dragon did Cedirc have to face in the first task?

a. A Hungarian Horntail
b. A Swedish Short-Snout
c. A Welsh Green
d. A Chinese Fireball

6. Who raised the trophy after winning the world cup?

a. Troy and Moran
b. Troy and Quigley
c. Quigley and Moran
d. Lynch and Connolly

7. How many bedrooms did Mundungus Fletcher claim to have?

a. 4
b. 8
c. 10
d. 12

8. For what did Moody mistake his birthday gift of a carriage clock?

a. An intruder
b. A basilisk egg
c. A bomb
d. A Blast-ended Skrewt

9. What did Mr. Ollivander produce for the end of Cedric's wand?

a. A bunch of flowers
b. A fountain of wine
c. Twittering birds
d. Silver smoke rings

10. The dark mark is on Snape's left arm.

a. Yes
b. No

Picture Scavenger Hunt
(Sorry...adding pictures doesn't seem to be working for me, so all I can do is links. Hope that's OK...)

Karkaroff
A Basilisk
Mundungus Fletcher
Amos Diggory
Snape

Ravenclaw Quiz #5

2008-03-08T08:03:00.003-06:00

Well, it's sure been a long week! Now, to finish up the last of my homework for the week before heading off to the Muggle Cub Scout Pine Wood Derby Races...

1. Do my homework for me.

Acedemia Completus

2. Tidy up my bedroom.

Spruceupitis Dormatorius

3. Make a delicious chocolate cake.

Konfectionary Choclatorio

4. Make my professor stay in bed today.

Hibernatum Snoreminimus

5. I would like breakfast in bed, please.

Slumbeflapjackelo

6. Stick all my Quidditch opponents' feet to the floor.

Quiddipedimus Stikafloorboardilus

7. Give everyone the giggles.

Sniggeralio

8. Dye some yarn in my favorite color.

Favicolorio Fiberilus

9. Unravel the mess I've made with my yarn.

Relashio Spunrovio

10. Knit my Prefect the perfect bag!

Totelo Intertwinilus

Happy Weekend Everyone!!

Ravenclaw Quiz #4

2008-02-29T19:26:00.003-06:00

1. What colorless and odorless potion forces the drinker to tell the truth?

Veritaserum

2. If the spell to Apparate goes wrong and leaves half of you behind, you have been what?

Splinched (This happened to me at the beginning of the term in the Common Room!)

3. Who wrote the Standard Books of Spells Grades 1 and 2?

Miranda Goshawk

4. What is it called when brother wands meet?

The Priori Incantatem effect is produced.

5. Name the charm used by Ludo at the World Cup to amplify his voice.

Sonorus

6. For what is the charm Aparecium used?

This makes invisible ink visible.

7. What charm requires the use of a Secret-Keeper?

Fidelius

8. What color should the Strengthening Potion be?

Turquoise

9. What plants are used in preparing a confusing potion?

Sneezewort, Scurvy-grass, Lovage

10. What condition is cured by Glumbumble?

The hysteria that results from eating Alihotsy leaves.

11. What potion makes a werewolf safe so he can keep his mind when he transforms, and what substance makes it useless?

Wolfsbane potion. Sugar destroys the effect.

12. When does Fluxwood, an ingredient used in making Polyjuice Potion, have to be picked?

At the full moon

13. What color should a Shrinking Solution be?

A bright acid green

14. What potion is made from asphodel and wormwood?

Draught of Living Death

15. For what are Jobberknoll feathers used?

Making memory potions and truth serums

Quidditch - Round 2

2008-02-18T11:48:00.008-06:00

Ok...I've got my lucky Ravenclaw Spirit Socks on. Let's see how they work, shall we?

Trivia Questions - Round 2

1. With whom does Ginny go to the Yule Ball?
a. Neville
b. Dean
c. Seamus
d. Harry

2. When Harry arrives at the Burrow and Mrs. Weasley makes them all dinner the night before they leave for the Quidditch World Cup, what does her wand turn into?
a. rubber mouse
b. rubber chicken
c. rubber duck
d. rubber cat

3. Since some of the sixth-year girls didn't have any quills on them, what did they think Krum might sign their hats in?
a. nail polish
b. eyeliner
c. lipstick
d. lipliner

4. How old does the Quick Quotes Quill say that Rita Skeeter is?
a. 43
b. 44
c. 34
d. 33

5. What color cloak is wormtail wearing in the Riddle house?
a. Grey (Gray)
b. Black
c. Gold
d. Silver

6. What color is "Mad Eye" Moody's magical eye?
a. Green
b. Hazel
c. Brown
d. Blue

7. What color are the robes that Rita Skeeter was wearing when Harry meets her at the Weighing of the Wands ceremony?
a. Lilac
b. Magenta
c. Mauve
d. Cerise

8. What does Sirius Black tell Harry, Ron and Hermione to call him when speaking around anyone else?
a. Tibbles
b. Snuffles
c. Scruffy
d. Padfoot

9. Which team beat Wales, disqualifying them from competing for the Quidditch World Cup?
a. Hungary
b. Romania
c. Uganda
d. Luxembourg

10. What does Madame Maxime say is the only thing her steeds will drink?
a. cabernet sauvignon
b. bourbon
c. single-malt whiskey
d. gin and tonics

Picture Hunt

Goblet of Fire

Madam Maxime

Dragon from first challenge

Viktor Krum

Madam Pomfrey

Ravenclaw Spirit Socks

2008-02-14T11:43:00.008-06:00

In honor of our upcoming Quidditch match, I've made myself some Ravenclaw Spirit Socks. I'm hoping they bring the team good luck.

This is one of my favorite socks to make! It's just a simple 2x2 ribbed, calf-length sock. The great thing about them is that they fold over quite nicely if you like a shorter ankle-type sock. Sort of my 2-in-1 sock!

Want to make a pair of your own? Well grab a cuppa, your favorite sock yarn, a set of 3.00 mm dpns and away we go...

Cast on 60 stitches loosely
Divide stitches evenly onto 3 of the dpns (20 stitches each)
Being careful not to twist as you join, work 2x2 rib in the round for 8".

Begin heel:

Work heel using only 30 stitches. Space the remaining 30 stitches over the other 2 needles (15 stitches each) and leave for now.

Heel Pattern:

Row 1: Sl first stitch, *k1, sl1* to the end of row, turn.
Row 2: Sl first stitch, p to the end of row.
Continue working rows 1 & 2 until 29 rows have been worked (you will end with a knit row)

Begin working heel flap:

p17, p2tog, p1, turn.
sl 1, k5, k2tog, k1, turn
sl 1, p to 1 st before your gap, p2tog, p1, turn.
sl 1, k to 1 st before your gap, k2tog, k1, turn.
Continue working in this manner until all remaining stitches are worked.

Begin Gusset:

Holding your heel flap in your right hand, pick up 15 stitches along the flap.
Combine the stitches on the other 2 needles to 1 needle for 30 stitches, work in 2x2 rib across.
Pick up 15 stitches along the remaining side of your heel flap and k 9 additional stitches from next needle.
Move the remaining 9 stitches on that needle to the next needle, and k across.
Work all 30 stitches on the last needle (this is Needle 2) in your 2x2 rib pattern. You are now back to the beginning of the round (Ready to start working on Needle 1).

Note: Needles 1 & 3 should have 24 stitches, Needle 2 should contain 30 stitches.

Tip: From here on out, the pattern may seem confusing since the needles will be knit out of numerical order. Don't be discouraged...you are knitting in this order: Needle 1, Needle 3, Needle 2.

Shape Gusset:

Row 1: Beginning on Needle 1, k to the last 3 st, k2tog, k1. On Needle 3, k1, sl sl k (sl 1 k-wise, sl1 k-wise, return them to left needle and k2tog), k to end of needle. On Needle 2, work your 2x2 rib for all 30 st.
Row 2: k each st on Needles 1 & 3, work 2x2 rib across Needle 2.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 until Needles 1 & 3 have 15 stitches remaining.

Note: Now that your gusset has been shaped, be sure you know the length of your foot from heel to tip of toe before continuing (i.e. 9")

Continue knitting in the round working only k st on Needles 1 & 3, and 2x2 rib on Needle 2 until your sock foot measures the length of your foot, minus 2".

Begin Toe:

Row 1: K all stitches around.
Row 2: On needle 1, k to the last 3 st, k2tog, k1. On needle 3, k1 sl sl k (sl 1 k-wise, sl1 k-wise, return them to left needle and k2tog), k. On needle 2, k1, sl sl k (sl 1 k-wise, sl1 k-wise, return them to left needle and k2tog), k to last 3 st, k2tog, k1.
Row 2: K all st across all 3 needles.
Continue working Rows 1 & 2 until you have 6 st remaining on needles 1 & 3, and 12 st remaining on needle 2.

Graft your toe using a Kitchener stitch.

Remember to always slip your stitches p-wise unless otherwise noted.

Voila!! You have yourself a super simple, really quick 2-in-1 sock!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

House Quiz #3

2008-02-13T11:30:00.004-06:00

Our lovely Prefect has posted another House Quiz to aid us in expanding our cranium's this week. And to my delight, it's all about the women that have shaped our world!

1. What is Professor McGonnagall's first name? Minerva, of course!

2. Who is the librarian of Hogwarts? Madam Irma Pince

3. What is Madam Rosmerta's job? Madam Rosmerta is the proprietor of The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade

4. What is Rita Skeeter's secret? She is an unregistered Animagus, and can transform herself into a beetle

5. Madam Hooch is instructor of what subject? Flying. She also referees the Quidditch matches between the Houses

6. Who is Parvati Patil's best friend? Lavender Brown

7. What Quidditch position does Cho Chang play? She is the Seeker for Ravenclaw

8. What is the name of Fleur Delacour's little sister? Gabrielle

9. Who is professor of Divination? Professor Sybill Trelawney

10. Who wrote "A History of Magic"? Bathilda Bagshot

Hogsmeade Visits

2008-02-06T19:11:00.000-06:00

The Headmistress has posted a notice that there will be trips to the Village this weekend! I can hardly wait. With all the snow we have been getting the past few days, it will be great to get out of the castle and stretch a bit!

I wonder if any of the girls will want to meet at The Three Broomsticks...

Alter Ego...

2008-02-04T13:12:00.000-06:00

Many students have been buzzing about their Potter alter egos, so I thought I would share mine...

Your Harry Potter Alter Ego Is...?
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Albus Dumbledore

Strong and powerful you admirably defend your world and your charges against those who would seek to harm them. However sometimes you can fail to do what you must because you care too much to cause suffering.

Albus Dumbledore

80%

Sirius Black

75%

Hermione Granger

75%

Remus Lupin

70%

Draco Malfoy

65%

Harry Potter

60%

Ron Weasley

60%

Ginny Weasley

55%

Severus Snape

55%

Lord Voldemort

40%

The Capture of the Snitch!

2008-02-02T13:04:00.000-06:00

The snitch was released, and it has been captured. The small, golden ball was caught by Cassandra Grubbly-Plank of Gryffindor House. Congratulations to you Cassandra, and to Gryffindor House!

Quidditch - Round 1

2008-01-30T18:24:00.000-06:00

1. What was Harry dreaming about the first time he woke up with his scar on fire?
a. Voldemort and Wormtail plotting to kill Dumbledore
b. Voldemort and Wormtail plotting to kill him
c. Voldemort and Wormtail plotting to kill Sirius
d. Voldemort and Wormtail plotting to kill Cornelius Fudge

2. What is the problem with leprechaun gold?
a. It vanishes after a few hours
b. It vanishes after a few weeks
c. It's only good in Ireland
d. It enchants you and makes you forget everything else

3. Why did Mad-Eye Moody turn Malfoy into a ferret?
a. Malfoy had said something rude about Mad-Eye
b. He was teaching him 'constant vigilance'
c. Malfoy attached Harry when Harry's back was turned
d. He hated Malfoy's father

4. Sirius warns Harry to be careful around Karkaroff because he had been a Death Eater. Which one of the professors at Hogwarts, who also used to be a Death Eater, is frequently bothered by Karkaroff? (Answer is One Word, Last Name Only)

Snape

5. Voldemort could have used the blood from any foe to make the potion that revived him work, but he held out for Harry's blood. Why?
a. To show that Dumbledore could not protect Harry
b. To prove that Harry could not apparate
c. The special protection Harry received from his mother would also pass to Voldemort
d. Simply because he hated Harry that much

6. How old would Frank have been on his next birthday?
a. 76
b. 73
c. 70
d. 77

7. Amos Diggory works for?
a. The Department of Mysteries
b. The Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures
c. The Goblin Liaison Office
d. The Committee of Experimental Charms

8. Who shared a carriage with the three friends on the way from the train to Hogwarts? Answer: (One Word)

Neville

9. What date in October did the delegates from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang arrive?
a. 30th
b. 31st
c. 1st
d. 2nd

10. What color were Percy's dress robes at the Yule Ball?
a. Navy Blue
b. Maroon
c. Emerald Green
d. Claret

Mr. Ollivander

Mad-Eye Moody

Cedric

World Cup Tournament

Dark Mark

House Socks

2008-01-29T12:59:00.000-06:00

I had some left over worsted weight yarn from a "project" I was working on, *wink, wink*, and I decided to make some ankle socks. I mean it is winter, after all, and the castle does get drafty. Socks in worsted weight yarns always come in handy this time of year, and it's a great way to use up those extra bits of WW yarns.

For this pair I used approximately 3-1/2 ounces of yarn (worsted weight, of course) on US Size 4 dpns. They fit a woman's US Size 7 and they knit up super quick.

Week 2 Comes to a Close

2008-01-26T13:51:00.000-06:00

Well, I must say that Week #2 here at Hogwarts went infinitely better than Week #1 for me. I'm settling in nicely, all the girls in my House are wonderful, I'm slowly warming up to Professor Von Humperdink, and I'm finding the coursework more challenging, which I just love!

I found time between courses this week to sit and knit with my Hogwarts friends twice this week, and I have my Spoilee's bag nearly finished. I'm so excited to fill up her kit and send it off to her! The yarn I ordered from a Muggle store in the States arrived by owl on Thursday, I've gotten her some very special needles, and I have some great extra goodies to put in as well. I can hardly wait to send it to her. I hope she loves it!

There was some disappointing news this week. It seems that one of the Gryffindors didn't get counted properly for posting last week, so they have moved ahead of Ravenclaw. In fact, Ravenclaw has slipped to last place in the standings for the House Cup. I understand how Gryffindor moved ahead, but I still can't figure out how we fell behind Slytherin. We had 2 members that didn't post last week. That lost our House 20 points. It was very sad. I sure do hope that won't happen again this week!

Homework, Homework and More Homework!

2008-01-22T11:02:00.000-06:00

Our beloved Prefect has posted another House Quiz. We have until January 27th to finish it up, but I've decided (being the Ravenclaw that I am) to get mine done and out of the way as quickly as possible. Besides that will give me a little free time to practice some of the spells my Ravenclaw friends have given me to try and fix up poor little Medea!

HOUSE QUIZ

1. RWIDZTAIR UANONETRMT - Triwizard Tournement

2. NRNAGIHAU RAHNIOTL - Hungarian Horntail

3. AEEMDY ONYOME - Madeye Mooney

4. ARTI KEESTRE - Rita Skeeter

5. ELSAUAEPBNKS - Unspeakables

6. ULSFENFS - Snuffles

7. NEPSVEIE - Pensieve

8. RMUEIIPS - Impervius

9. TREUEEBTBR - Butterbeer

10. ROFELIBT - Firebolt

A few notes on the assignment this week:

First off, I have to say that #5 stumped me for a bit. I found I had to pull out my "text" and search for that one. I must say, I rather liked the challenge!

Second, I was sure that #3 was spelled incorrectly, but after inquiring with our Prefect, I was assured that it was not. So, I filled in the answer and set off to the library to do a bit more research on the subject. I found that for starters, the Professor's last name is spelled "Moody", not "Moodey", so the suspected "error" that immediately jumped out at me was now irrelevant.

After digging a little more, I wondered if questions #3 was our Prefect's mini version of Six Degrees since Brendan Gleeson (the actor that plays Mad-Eye Moody in the films) was also in the 1996 movie Angela Mooney. Thinking on it though, I decided I was clearly reading too much into this and decided that the first word in the question must be something other than Mad-Eye. That left me right back at square one here.

More research turned up this Review at Amazon.co.uk in which the reviewer mistakenly lists the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher as Mad-Eye Mooney. Could this have been what our Prefect wanted us to find? It seemed the more I searched the more reviews I found that listed the new DADA teacher as Mad-Eye "Mooney". Here's another. I went back and checked my text. No...clearly printed right there in black and white, Mad-Eye Moody.

This vexes me. I will leave my answer as it stands and set this aside until I can do some more digging to come up with a concrete explanation.

Transfiguration Nightmare!

2008-01-21T10:19:00.000-06:00

Oh dear me! It seems I've already befuddled my Transfiguration homework. I was suppose to be tranforming my cat into a felted knitting bag, but it's all gone wrong. Now all I have is a cat that looks like a bag lady! Whatever can I do? I wonder if any of my dear Ravenclaw sisters knows a spell to untransfigure her. My poor little Medea!

Good gracious, Me! While I suppose she is quite cute in this state, I'm sure she'll be none too happy with me before long. I better get off to the library and do some research!

Spoiling my "Spoilee"

2008-01-20T20:48:00.000-06:00

I have been having so much fun this weekend conjuring items to put into a nice little kit for my swap Spoilee. It's so much fun I can hardly wait to finish it up so I can send it off to her. One of the best parts of the whole thing for me has been "secretly" doing my best to get to know her likes and turning those things into something that I hope she will love.

To top it all off, I've been able to use principles I learned in both Potions and Transfiguration. Now what could be better than studying and spoiling at the same time?

Dreadful Start...

2008-01-17T11:50:00.001-06:00

Aside from being petrified to step foot in Professor Von Humperkink's class, I got myself into a little pickle trying to get additional supplies for the requested triple batch of Pumpkin Pasties I was to bring to our Knitting Club meeting last night in the Common Room. It had to be done Monday since the rest of the week would be loaded with classes and homework. I knew an owl would never arrive with the supplies in time, so I decided I'd take one of the passages out of the castle that I'd heard about.

What a mistake! Not only did I come out of passage still on the school grounds, but I emerged and was promptly wholloped on the noggin by a huge knotty limb! That Whomping Willow knocked me out cold, and I didn't wake up until night had fallen, cold and alone at the bottom of the passage just below the tree. I raced back up the passage, only to find that I missed the entire feast! I was so dissapointed. That's the last time I take advice from a Slytherin! I should have know better.

As if that's not enough to ruin the week for me, the next morning Seva swoops in with the morning mail and drops a box in front of me. She circled around and settled on my shoulder, stuck out her leg so I could undo the roll of parchment, and then flew off to the owlry. It was from Mum! She already knew all about the Willow, (how? I told no one!) and was giving me a generous scolding for being so irresponsible. "I wonder if the Sorting Hat made a mistake with you! Listening to the muttering of a Slytherin...Do use your common sense child!" The box was from her too. All the supplies I needed for the Pasties. I tell you, sometimes having a Mum that's a gifted Legilimens is disturbing. I suppose it could have been worse...she could have sent a Howler!

At least yesterday things started looking up! The weekly meeting of The Ravenclaw Knitting Club was so much fun. I tell you the girls in my House are just the best anywhere around. Tea, Pasties, String, Sticks...great fun! Several of the girls are working on new bags now. I'm going to start one next week. After some very sound advice from the other girls in the Club last night, and a morning sketching out some designs, I know exactly what I'll be making. I wish I could get going straight away, but it always takes a little time for the owl to arrive.

First Day...Loaded with Homework!

2008-01-14T22:27:00.000-06:00

What a day! It's officially the first day of the new term. Everyone is excited. We have 2 new Professors this term! Can I just say that I'm really looking forward to Potions? And I don't know about you, but Professor Von Humperdink scares the Dark Arts out of me!

We've already got homework. I'm grateful for it, of course! There's no better tool in a young witches arsenal than her keen mind! Here's how my first assignment shapes up:

1. Name 4 housemates who have revealed their Patronuses and list the form their Patronuses take.

Fleur Lovegoods - Pheonix
Cassandra Hopkirk - Eagle
Lavendar Ackerly - Tiger
Ferula Vector - Eagle

2. Who attended the first meeting of the Ravenclaw Knitting Club?

Elanor Cadogan
Gabriella Clearwater
Fleur Lovegoods
Esmerelda
Cassandra Hopkirk
Millicent Brocklehurst
Minerva Kwikspell
Enid Black
Allitrya Spelling
Mafalda Ackerley
Serafina Starfire

3. Name the housemate who likes to knit with peacock feathers.

Fleur Lovegoods

4. Name the Ravenclaw who spent the New Year at Hogwart's Costume Ball.

Emma Diggory

5. Which Ravenclaw got the first howler?

Lavender Ackerly

6. Name 5 different types of wood used in the wands of Ravenclaws and name the housemate having that wand.

Holly - Cecilia Kettleburn
Oak - Selina Starflame
Birch - Patonga Wigworthy
Cherry - Avada Finch-Fletchley
Walnut - Gabriella Clearwater

7. Who accidentally ate a toenail flavored Every Flavor Bean?

Serafina Starfire

8. Who cast a noise dampening spell before going to bed and then overslept?

Esmerelda Beanswallow

9. Besides the HSKS4 blog, on what blog will you find the Ravenclaw Anthem?

On mine! :)

10. Which housemate has a Muggle cellular phone?

Victoria Black

I sure hope all of our homework is this fun!

My Patronus has been revealed!

2008-01-13T16:59:00.000-06:00

"Your patronus would take the form of an Eagle. Eagles are thought to be the divine spirit, ruler of the skies. They symbolize power, courage and guidance. They are associated with prosperity, success and wealth. Eagles are brave warriors, who fight until death. They are persistent and stubborn. With keen endurance, stength and valor, Eagles are tough adversaries."

After my trip to Ollivander's, and now finding the form my Patronus will take, it feels like I'm putting together the pieces of a puzzle. The tail-feathers that reside in the core of my wand come from the Gryffon...a magical creature 1/2 Eagle - 1/2 Lion. My Patronus takes the form of an Eagle. The mascot of Ravenclaw is an Eagle...

Mere coincidence? Only time will tell...

Head Girl!

2008-01-13T09:49:00.000-06:00

I've been appointed Head Girl by our wonderful Prefect, Neila! I can't believe it - it's SO exciting. And what an honor. Our Prefect has already been very busy planning some great fun and games for us Ravenclaws to participate in this term. They will be a great break from our heavy course load. It's going to be GREAT when Ravenclaw wins the House Cup!!!

Speaking of the House Cup, Headmistress Wartbobble has already begun tallying Points, and it appears that the Hufflepuffs have the early edge. Now...we can't have that, can we? Be sure to get the HSKS4 logo uploaded to your blogs as soon as you can so we don't miss out again. If you don't have a site that you can host the logo on, please send me an owl and I will forward you the exact code to place in your widget using the image that is hosted on my personal site.

As an added incentive toward 100% House participation, our Prefect is keeping a record of all those that complete all of their homework this term. Once the grades are in, I will be sending an owl carrying a set of Ravenclaw stitch markers to every House member that has turned in EVERY assignment.

It's going to be a great term!

Bedazzling Hex...

2008-01-12T20:36:00.000-06:00

I received an owl today from Berroco. They frequently send owls to help keep some of us in patterns and fibers. When I opened the parchment my eye was immediately drawn to the section containing the new yarns they are unveiling for Spring. They clearly put a bedazzling hex on one! It's called Sox... Here, have a look, you'll see just what I mean!

Isn't it GLORIOUS??? I must make it mine...silly hex!

Which Wand Chose You?

2008-01-11T11:33:00.000-06:00

Wood type: holly
Length: 11½ inches
Core: Gryffon Feather

get your own wand!

After a bit of research at Ollivander's, this is what I was able to find out about my brand new wand.

Holly:

Holly is the strongest of the protective woods. It is used to guard against evil in fact Holly means "holy". Holly wands excel at combat, defense, and protection spells. It is also useful in glamour's and warding. This wand tends to pick an owner who's brave and pure of heart, not to mention has a high intelligence.
Holly's personality is Determined.
Element: Fire

Gryffon Feather:

The gryffon originated in Greece, having the head and front legs of an eagle, but the hind quarters of a lion. Gryffon feathers are used in wands of wizards or witches who posses great strength whether physically, magically or emotionally. These wands are especially good for both offensive and defensive magic.

What a magnificent wand! I'm so happy that it chose me...

Owls from the Headmistress...

2008-01-10T22:42:00.001-06:00

Many of the students have been receiving owls from the Headmistress carrying a roll of parchment that tells them who their secret swap partner is. I was so happy to see Seva, our Eurasian Eagle Owl, swoop in and land next to me. It's really very exciting now that the new term is upon us!

Now...time to begin researching what to conjure for the kit!

House Party Treats!

2008-01-09T13:10:00.000-06:00

So tonight's the big House Party, as well as the first meeting for the Magical Knitting Club in the Ravenclaw Common Room. So, in honor of the festivities, I thought it fitting to whip up a fresh batch of Pumpkin Pasties for my Housemates to enjoy. Can't make it tonight? Here's the spell so you can charm some for yourself.

Ingredients:

Freezer Pastry Dough (1 box)
1 egg
1-1/4 cups Cooked Pumpkin (see below)
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1-1/4 cups evaporated milk

Cooked Pumpkin:

Heat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut pumpkin (approximately 4 lbs.) in half and remove seeds and pulp. Place pumpkin halves, cut side up, in baking dish. Pour 1/4 inch water into bottom of dish. Cover and bake until tender (approximately 1 hour). Scoop pumpkin from shells and mash until there are no lumps. (Note: You will yield approximately 1 cup of pumpkin from each pound of cooked pumpkin.)

Directions:

Heat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl beat egg slightly and add all the remaining ingredients, beating slightly to incorporate. Spray a casserole dish cooking spray and pour mixture into dish. Bake at 425 for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 and bake an additional 40-45 minutes. (Insert knife into center and if it comes out clean, mixture is fully cooked.) Remove from oven and allow to cool (approximately 1 hour).

Once mixture is fully cooled, roll out thawed freezer pastry and cut into circles using a 6" circular cookie cutter. Spoon a generous spoonful of the pumpkin mixture onto 1/2 of each round, and fold the other half over onto the mixture. Use a fork to gently press the edges closed. Repeat until all rounds are completed. With a paring knife, cut 3 small slits in the top of each pasty. Bake pasties on a cookie sheet in a 375 degree oven until golden brown (about 10 minutes).

ENJOY!

Hogwart's Happenings...

2008-01-08T17:11:00.000-06:00

Did you see today's edition of the Daily Prophet? January 15th marks the end of the Magical Middle-Term Extracurricular Class Offering that some of us are now enrolled in, and Professor Wartbobble posted the new term's Course Listing. I wish I could take them all, don't you? Here's how the new term will be shaping up:

Course Listing:

Ancient Runes
Arithmancy
Astronomy
Care of Magical Creatures
Charms
Defense Against the Dark Arts
Divination
Flying
Enchanted Kit Planning
Herbology
History of Magic
Magic in Threadwork and Weaving
Muggle Studies
Potions
Transfiguration

I have my eye on Charms, Enchanted Kit Making, Herbology, Magic in Threadwork and Weaving, and Potions. I'm not very gifted with the Time Turner, but if I can swing it, I'd sure like to squeeze in Defense Against the Dark Arts, Flying and Transfiguration as well.

This is going to be a GREAT term!

Charms Lessons...Literally!

2008-01-07T22:14:00.000-06:00

By the time I had finished my essay for Potions, and the owl still hadn't arrived with the rest of my Konfection making supplies. My mind kept wondering to the wool slippers I had made the other day, and I got to thinking how much easier it would be to make these socks with a better set of markers for my stitches. Not to be deterred, I set out for the Library and found exactly what I was looking for. After a bit of light reading, I set back out for the Common Room with some supplies, and a short while later I had these nice markers. Of course I had to try them out... I decided I needed a pair of fingerless mitts to go along with my new slippers.

Now...what do you suppose happened to that owl?

Charming the Needles

2008-01-05T09:13:00.000-06:00

The castle has been so cold and drafty lately that I really needed to get a nice pair of wool slippers. With my father deep in research on ways to improve the Kwikspell course, I decided not to send home an owl. Luna taught me a spell to charm needles that she learned from Hermoine, and once I mastered it, I was ready to start.

After reading thoroughly through Knitting Vintage Socks, by Nancy Bush, I decided that I had enough knowledge to fabricate something quick and of my own design. So, I cast the charm and my needles went to work using some 100% Merino superwash. About 5 hours later, I had myself a thick, warm pair of slippers! My feet felt like I was warming them by the fire all night.

If anyone is interested in the charm, just send an owl, I'd be happy to share!

Thanks Professor Sprout!!

2008-01-03T19:33:00.000-06:00

Not everyone knows that Professor Sprout grows pumpkins year-round in Greenhouse 3. Since the Halloween Feast is long over, there are certainly no more of Hagrid's giant pumpkins around, and I really needed to get some Pumpkin Pasties made up today. Since Professor Sprout is so busy with magical plants, she doesn't always have time to enjoy the mundane vegetation that grows readily in the Muggle world as well as our own. That's what gave me the idea...

Before Greenhouse 2 this morning I potted a clipping of the Belladonna plant I have growing by my window. I took it with me hoping to barter. Professor Sprout did not disappoint! She was more than happy to add some Belladonna to the greenhouse, and I happily took my pumpkin with me when class was over. With only one more class today, I'll soon be whipping up some yummy treats!

Secretly Swapping...

2008-01-02T13:20:00.000-06:00

The castle is all a buzz with talks of the newest Hogwarts Sock Kit Swap! Hermoine is terribly excited since she's gotten so good at knitting socks for all the house elves. All the girls in Ravenclaw Tower are talking about it. I've signed up as well and can't wait to see who my partner will be. It's a secret swap this term...very exciting!

After the festivities of the past few days, we're all ready to begin the new term. And with so many students returning to the castle early, my entire supply of Kandys and Konfections has nearly been depleted. Tomorrow while I have a break in my class schedule I'll be working on restocking. What shall I make first? Probably more Pumpkin Pasties...everyone loves them, and they are a great study snack!

Toast the New Year!!

2008-01-01T08:57:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to my fellow students at Hogwarts!

Nothing warms you up like a mug of Butterbeer! If you and your house are celebrating today in your Common Room, you can't be without this staple. Here's how you can whip some up yourself:

Ingredients:

8 ounces A & W Cream Soda
2 ounces pure Maple syrup
1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

1. In a microwave safe pyrex measuring cup, measure syrup and butter. Microwave on high, 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until butter is completely melted.

2. Stir constantly to cool, approximately 30 seconds. Very slowly mix in cream soda. (Slow is important here as this mixture is really going to fizz during this step.)

3. Serve in mugs and enjoy!