It's Good to be Queen

Mystery Shawl KAL

2010-01-18T08:41:00.001-08:00

Shoshie Section 1
Originally uploaded by Teri Kepner

I'm participating in a Mystery Shawl KAL on Ravelry, headed by SheKnits. The first clue came out yesterday, and it was so exciting to work through it and see the project unfold! I can't wait until Wednesday when the next clue comes out. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this!

Fit For a Queen

2009-04-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

I received my kit today from Violet Starfire of the Schmufflepuff House. Let me tell you, it took me quite some time to sort through all the loot! That was the most generous package I've ever received--kind of reminded me of the one I sent to Ms. Lizzie Wychwood two terms back. Everything in there but the kitchen sink! Where to begin? Well, I'll let the pictures say 10,000 words!

The cutest little handmade notecard--sorry pic is fuzzy! My hand was shaking, I was so excited!
That's before I opened it all! First I had to extract many small gifties out of the many pockets sewn into the lining of the bag! Now, on to the contents:

There were 8 patterns--and I had NONE of them already in my collection! How awesome is that?

All kinds of goodies, and it was so sweet for Violet to notice that I am a cardinal fiend, and have cardinals all over the house, hence the very cute snowman candleholder with the cardinal!

Look at all that yarny goodness! She even knitted me a pair of ankle socks! Love, love love! Can't wait to use the hand-dyed from ShelbyB! The colors look more blue in the picture, but the actual color is much more purple (my fave)!

This loot I am calling my Fashion Stash! Lot of lip stuff, hair stuff, scarf, necklace and hand lotion to enhance my natural feminine charms!

Here is my sanity stash--when the going gets tough, I've got candy! And all three my favorites!

Here's all the loot together--I had to get pretty far away to get it all in!
And last, but certainly not least, the biggest, purplest, most pocket-filled bag I've ever seen! It warrants more than one pic for you to fully appreciate it's AWESOMENESS!

Violet, I can't thank you enough! If you don't win best kit, well, that would be a shame. You seriously went above and beyond to put a truly ROYAL kit together! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Stick a Fork in Me

2009-04-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

1. This “Harry Potter” character’s first name comes from Roman mythology. The mythological character’s twin brother is named Romulus. What is the Harry Potter character last name?
LUPIN

2. Which “Harry Potter” character’s first name is the Roman equivalent of the Greed (?really?) Goddess Athena?
MCGONAGALL

3. In ‘Harry Potter’ World, this wizard has created the Philosopher’s Stone (called the Sorcerer Stone in the US). The historical figure from the 14th and 15th centuries was a scribe and a manuscript-seller who became famous as an alchemist. Who is this individual?
NICHOLAS FLAMEL

4. What is the first name of a character whose last name is the name of a Bulgarian leader from early 9th century who doubled the country’s territory?
VIKTOR

5. Which character’s name is the name of goddess in Indian mythology?
PATIL

6. “Where the Wild Things Are” tells the story of Max, a young boy sent to bed without his supper for his wild antics. Who created this winner of the Caldecott Medal?
MAURICE SENDAK

7. What was NOT one of the unexpected defense mechanisms that Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Griphook encountered in their attempt to rob Gringotts?
THE GEMINIO CURSE

8. What was Snape aiming at when he cut off George’s ear?
ANOTHER DEATH EATER'S WAND HAND

9. How much older than James was Lily? (Referring to Harry’s parents, not children).
2 MONTHS

10. Food is one of the five exceptions to what magical law?
GAMP'S LAW OF ELEMENTAL TRANSFIGURATION

Picture Hunt
George

McGonagall

Patil

Where the Wild Things Are

The Way Knit Was

2009-04-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

For Quinn:
Here's what my Yarn Harlot calendar says for today, Thursday, April 9.

Passover commemorates the Jews' exodus from Egypt and slavery, and, as with many Jewish holidays and the Shabbat (Sabbath days), some observant Jews do not knit at this time, since knitting is considered work, and abstaining from work is an important observance for them. I once asked a rabbi about this, explaining that for most knitters, knitting is a pleasure, not a duty, but there was no change in his rule. He explained that the activity that is prohibited is not "work" as we would all normally think of it, but melachah, which is work that creates or changes. In fact, the quintessential melachah was the creation of the world, which took six days and was followed by a day of rest. Understanding this, I had to agree. Knitting is both creative and changing. It is melachah.

Happy Passover!

Gads, I'm Going to be a Schmufflepuff!

2009-04-03T06:10:00.001-07:00

Seems a bunch of us are defecting to the Schmufflepuff house for the HP Knitting/Crochet House Cup! I can't believe we're doing that, but I just have to believe it will all turn out. In honor of my defection, I am even knitting something in the appropriate colors. Not intentionally of course, but I think it was subliminal.

I'm actually knitting this for the Sunshine Yarns April KAL. I'm calling it Edward Nuzzling My Neck because it is in the Edward colorway. She does the most fantastic colors, and has both HP and Twilight themed colors. Check her colorways out at SunshineYarns! You probably have to look in the Sold Out section, because most of her stuff sells out pretty quickly. I'm expecting the Esme Island and the Twilight mini-skeins to be delivered any day!

A Most Incredible RAOK!

2009-03-26T19:05:00.001-07:00

I came home from a particularly crappy staff meeting today, which lasted 8 hours, to a rather large box on the counter. I was so excited, sure it must be my HSKS7 kit! I marveled at how early it was--must be the second to be received after Ronni's. I opened the box to see many goodies all wrapped in black tissue paper, and tied with Slytherin colored string. This was the earliest in the term I had ever received my kit! That was ok, though, it came on the perfect day!

First I opened the letter (on Slytherin parchment), only to find that it was NOT my kit, but the most amazing and generous RAOK I had ever received! Ms. Clara Clovenhoof, a fellow Slytherin, had bestowed upon me such a beauteous bounty! I am so not worthy, and extremely humbled by her generosity. Look at all the marvelous gifts she sent!

There were SIX felted bag patterns (none of which were in my collection!), hand-dyed yarn in a green fit only for a Slytherin, a handmade beaded row counter (I've never owned one of these!), a model of Crucio to use as a bookmark, a very cute drawstring bag (House colors, of course!)in which to conceal charms and potions, green black and gray hair ties, my FAVORITE sweets (Chocolate Covered Peanuts), and my very own pet owl (named Maximus after my dearly departed cat)! Can you believe all that in an RAOK? Sir Jinx promptly sniffed out Maximus, became insanely jealous, and hid under the bed!

Meet Maximus--I love him already!

Clara, I can't tell you how much I love my RAOK! Thank you, thank you, thank you! That was so kind, and so generous, and I truly, truly appreciate it!

Weekly Blogging

2009-03-25T15:38:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, what to blog about? I know, how about some poetry? Written by none other than Prince Cody!

Bad Day

Just let me have this bad day
Let me lash out at myself
For being lazy
For being ignorant
To things I know I needed to do

Just let me have this bad day
Guided by my frustration
Because of my lack of drive
Because of my lack of will
To do things I needed to do

Just let me have this bad day
Quiet and alone is where I want to be
Just for this day
Just for this one time
To do things I need to do

Just let me have this bad day
So I can re-align my thoughts
To gain a clear mind
To gain confidence once again
This is what I want to do

Just let me have this bad day
Because things today will let me see
Where I’m at fault
Where I’m weak
Make me stronger
That is what today’s going to do

Seriously Hard House Quiz

2009-03-18T17:29:00.000-07:00

1) Fawkes
2) black
3) magical remedy
4) 1971 feet
5) knitted cupcakes
6) St. Mungos
7) met Titus Pullo aka Ray Stevenson
8) Fire and Ice
9) one
10) Odin’s bird, Odin is considered the chief god in Norse paganism, the god of battle, magic, inspiration and the dead.

There, done! Thanks for helping Emma and Esme!

Quidditch--Bring It!

2009-03-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

1. On which day did the Order of the Phoenix come to get Harry?
c. Saturday

2. During all this chaos with voldemort and the Death Eaters, people still had lives to live and Ron's oldest brother, Bill decided to marry Fleur Delacour? Who were the uninvited guests at Bill and Fleur's wedding?
b. Death Eaters

3. Voldemort had seven Horcruxes hidden in different places. Six of them were hidden at the Gaunt shack, Hogwarts, a cave, inside Harry, inside his snake, Nagini and Tom Riddles Diary. Did Voldemort hide the last Horcrux inside the Malfoy's vault at Gringotts?
b. No

4. Why did the Dumbledore's move to Godric's Hollow?
c. The father went to Azkaban

5. Harry and Hermione read a part of "Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore," written by Rita Skeeter. Then they met Dumbledore's brother Abreforth and he told them the same story, just with a few details changed. Which of the following did Aberforth and Rita Skeeter agree on about Dumbdore's past?
b. That Dumbledore was friends with Grindelwald for a while.

6. When Harry and Hermione visit Godric's Hollow, they visit the graveyard to see Harry's parent's graves. Harry walks by a tombstone that we later learn belong to tone of "The Three Brother'. The brother buried there once owned what?
b. The cloak

7. The Trio finds out that Luna had been kidnapped by the Death Eaters , and that they won't give her back until they got Harry Potter. Why did they kidnap Luna?
a. Her father sided with Harry and Dumbledore

8. After Voldemort killed Snape, he left the room and Harry came out from under the cloak. Snape gave Harry some of his memories all the way from when he was a child to just months before. Harry dived into the Pensieve and which of the following did he not see?
c. Snape and Lily having fun in a potions class.

9. On the search of the Lost Diadem, Harry finally gets to talk to the Gray Lady. Who was the Gray Lady when she was alive?
c. Helena Ravenclaw.

10. Which of these is not one of Harry or Ron's children?
d. Victoria

Lily Potter

Ron Weasley

Severus Snape

Luna Lovegood

Godric's Hollow

Blogging So's I Don't Get Bit!

2009-03-13T13:38:00.001-07:00

Well, here's my blog for the week. I don't want no stinking snake bite from Crucio.

So, Quinn posted a really really hard House Quiz on the same day that Quidditch is supposed to be posted. What to do? Esme yelled at me for asking where the House Quiz was, and now I'm sorry I asked. Is our Head Girl smoking crack?

Yippee, I'll be able to help with Snotch Hunting on Tuesday! I had to miss the last session because I was on a plane for six hours going to Portland. But I'll be here this time (if everyone from work will leave me alone long enough to snotch hunt!).

I finished my Noro scarf. Finally. I thought I'd never finish the darn thing. Yes, it's very pretty (sorry no pics, batteries are dead), but that whole K1P1 thing just about sent me over the edge. I'll go out on a limb and say it was worth it--I wore it to my staff meeting yesterday and got lots of compliments. It was tedious, though. The best part about it was seeing what new color combinations were coming up next!

I've now started an adult sized sock (for about the tenth time). Let's see how far I get with this one. I had one half way done in Sacramento, so Mary could help show me how to pick up stitches, but I had to rip the whole thing out because it was so ginormous! Let's hope this one is a little better fit for me. We'll see--I should be turning the heel this weekend, after I finish lining my bag for Ms. Violette Black. As soon as I line it and sew up the sides, it will be done!!!!!

Waiting for two owls to complete the kit--the surprise from across the ocean and the hand-dyed Schmufflepuff yarn from Cass. I will be one of the first persons to release an owl this term, just so I don't have to worry about it any more . . . and so I don't spend any more money on it!

Love ya, buh bye!

Snow Day at Hogwarts

2009-03-06T15:03:00.000-08:00

I usually hate snow. It's so cold, and although it's pretty when it first falls, it soon turns to yucky brown and black mush. This snow was different, though.

Classes were canceled, as there was no way to go between buildings, or down to the forest for Care of Magical Creatures. So, I went back to bed for awhile. I laid there, restless, and decided to get up to go get some hot chocolate from the kitchen. Standing with the tin of cocoa in hand, Professor Snape welcomed me and invited me to join him for cocoa. Everyone usually tries to stay clear of Snape--he's quite the formidable character. I, however, have a secret crush on him. So, needless to say, I was THRILLED at the idea of sitting across from him at the tiny kitchenette set, just he and I having cocoa and watching the snow fall.

He's not a man of many words, so we didn't really do much talking. I began to become painfully aware that I was still in my nightgown and the thin robe I had over it fell open with each movement I made. Snape was aware, as well, and I'd venture to say it became painful for him, after I accidentally dropped my napkin and bent to pick it up, exposing full cleavage to his scrutinizing eye. He cleared his throat, and asked if I was interested in sharing a scone, to which I gratefully agreed. He stood to retrieve the scone, and I couldn't help but notice his obvious arousal.

I prefer my scones with cream, and I noticed he was eating his plain, so I offered a bite of my half to him, after lathering sweet rich cream on the end. He accepted the bite from my hand, and a dab of cream stayed on his lips. I licked my lips to indicate that he should do the same, and wasn't quite prepared for his response. He groaned audibly, and I could tell that he was trying to decide whether to stay or to run.

I asked him whether he had ever run barefoot in the snow, and of course he hadn't. He's much too sensible a man for such a thing. But I flung open the door and went bounding across the back lawn, hands flung wide, mouth open to catch the falling snowflakes. He stood at the doorway and laughed a bit, eyes wide that I would be so daring. I beckoned for him to join me, and, much to my surprise, he did just that. Off came his very sensible shoes, then his socks, and the next thing I knew he was at my side. We were giddy with laughter, started to get soaked through, when he took me in his arms and graciously offered to keep me warm. I can't begin to explain the emotions that raced through me. We both knew that we were treading in dangerous territory, but were just too caught up in the moment to care. I released myself from his grasp, laid down in the snow, arms and legs flung wide. He just stood there staring at me, with wide eyes that were both astonished and wary at the same time. I began making sweeping motions with my arms and legs, and proceeded to make the most perfect snow angel in the white, soft snow. He threw his head back and laughed, then knelt down to join me.

Then Cass woke my ass up.

Mostly Copied House Quiz

2009-02-26T17:05:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I lifted all but the last answer directly from Cass' blog, just so I could get this done and fulfill my posting for the week. I've been in a freakin' hotel in Oregon for a week, with intermittent, shared, Internet access, no HP books, can't remember this kind of detail from the books, completely wiped out from the time zone change, so please give me a break! On the bright side, I have visited nine different yarn stores between Portland and Salem, and will be heading to Stitches West on Saturday! Love and miss you all!!!!!

1. Harry discovers in Regulus' room that he and Regulus have something uncommon and unexpected in common. What is this, and how did he figure it out?
They were both on a mission to destroy Voldemort's Horcuxes. Harry and Hermioen realized while in Regulus' room that Regulus Arturus Black may be the mysterious R.A.B. who signed his name in the false locket that Harry and Dumbledore recovered from the cave. The summon Kreacher who tells the tale of how Regulus had a change of heart regarding Voldemort and how Regulus made Kreacher take him back to the cave where Regulus drank the potion, stole the locket, and replaced it with the false one. He then ordered Kreacher to return home and destroy the locket.

2.On three ocassions former professors can be presumed to have "visited" the trio while they are in "exhile" - which professors and which ocassions would these be?
#1 Remis Lupin at #12 Grimmauld place
#2. Phineas Nigellus Black in the forest via the portrait Hermione placed in her bottomless pit bag
#3. Dolores Umbridge at the Ministry of Magic while the trio were undercover

3. How do Ron and Harry get into the Ministry?
They each drank polyjuice potion and took on the appearence of ministry employees. Hermione become Mafalda Hopkirk, Rom becomes Reg Cattermole, and Harry becomes Runcorn

4. Who is the blond-haired boy, and why is he important? The blonde-haired boy is actually Grindelwald, the last known master of the death stick

5. How is the exception that food cannot be conjured classified?It is one of the Principal Exceptions to Gamp's Law Of Elememntal transfiguration. Food may be multiplied once a real food object is actually in hand, but cannot be created from nothing.

6. Where does the trio first run into Dean Thomas? In the woods. Dean is on the run with Ted Tonks, Dirk Cresswell and the goblins Griphook and Gornuk

7. Bathilda Bagshot does not speak in front of Hermione because....
Bathilda is actually Nagini in a Bagshot skin and when she speaks its in parsel tongue. Harry would hear it as English but Hermione would hear the hissing

8. Who can Harry be said to have buried in Deathly Hallows? Crabbe

9. Which Horcruxes has Harry actually seen in person before the book starts?
Riddles Diary, himself, Nagini, and the resurrection stone/ring

10. Who actually destroys each of the Horcruxes?
Resurrection stone/ring was destroyed by Albus Dumbledore
Tom riddle's Diary was Destroyed by Harry Potter
Helga Hufflepuff's cup was destroyed by Hermione Granger
Salazar Slytherin's locket was destroyed by Ron Weasley
Ravenclaw's Diadem was destroyed by Crabbe
Harry Potter was destroyed by Lord Voldemort
Nagini was destroyed by Neville Longbottom

Extra credit:Tom Riddle's grandfather inherited the stone of resurrection. Harry's father inherited the invisibility cloak. What does this imply about Tom Riddle and Harry Potter?

It implies that it was destiny that Voldemort and Harry would both grow up to be great wizards!

Quidditch--It's On

2009-02-17T14:36:00.000-08:00

1. What momentous event was the reason that the members of the Order of the Phoenix felt it necessary to move Harry out of the Dursley’s house?
d. Harry’s upcoming birthday

2. Who revealed the actual date of Harry’s transfer to Voldemort, despite the misinformation the Order had been spreading around that the move would occur on the eve of his actual birthday?
b. Snape

3. With the use of Polyjuice Potion (and to confuse any possible attack by Death Eaters), six member of the Order were disguised as Harry and escorted out of Privet Drive, along with the real Harry. Which member of the order did not survive that night?
a. Mad-Eye Moody

4. Who informed Harry, Ron and Hermione of the bequests left to them in Dumbledore’s will?
d. Rufus Scimgeour

5. During the wedding celebration for Bill and Fleur, Kingley Shacklebolt sent a Patronus to tell the guests that the Ministry had fallen, Scrimgeour (the Minister) was dead and the wedding celebration was about to be attacked by Death Eaters. What form did the Patronus take?
a. A lynx

6. Escaping from the wedding to London, our three friends found themselves confronted by a pair of Death Eaters, disguised as workmen. This close brush impressed on them the need to find someplace to hide. Where did they decide to go?
b. Sirius Black’s house

7. Kreacher’s animosity towards Harry, Ron and especially Hermione (a Mudblood) was well documented in book five, “The Order of the Phoenix.” His initial interaction with them showed that his attitude had not changed. How did they win him over?
d. By giving him Regulus Black’s old locket

8. Who did they eventually find was in possession of the locket/Horcrux?
d. Dolores Umbridge

9. What did Harry find embedded in the door of Umbrdige’s office?
a. Moody’s magical eye

10. After retrieving the Horcrux, they tried to return to their safe place but they were pursued (actually Yaxley tagged along when they disapparated). This meant that the Death Eaters knew their hiding place and they had to go somewhere else. Where did Hermione take them?
d. To the site of the Quidditch World Cup

Mad-Eye Moody

Nymphadora Tonks

George Weasley

The Dursley's House

Kreacher

So sorry I won't be able to Snitch Hunt will you all on Friday. I'll be on a plane to Portland and then down to Stitches West the following weekend!!!!! Please have a Snitch waiting for me when I get to the West Coast!

The Correct Answer

2009-02-13T03:49:00.000-08:00

This is Prince Corey. He has his own fan club, and they're all Slytherin housemates! Cassandra Puddlemere is going to marry him, if Quinn doesn't get to him first. You would know that if you were reading the Rav posts and the comments from the first Slytherin house quiz! AND, Cass and Quinn, you should already know this, so why did you both get the question wrong?????

Ssssslytherin House Quiz #Deux

2009-02-13T03:23:00.000-08:00

1) Which housemate has an 11 ½ inch holly wand with a Dragon Heartstring core? Bathilda Boomslang
2) Which housemate creates rockin’ sock patterns? Emma Wigworthy
3) Which housemate has the hots for David Boreanez? Cassandra Puddlemere
4) Which housemate used to be the top badger who made a habit of eating snakes? Quinn
5) Which housemate shows off her awards from HSKS6 on her blog? Madam Ferula Finnigan
6) Which housemate makes kicka* * cookies IRL? Esmerelda Beanswallow
7) Which housemate is a third year Slytherclaw, whatever the hell that means? Callisto Verity
8) Which housemate wants Plymouth to make her feet happy? Belladonna Boomslang
9) Which housemate is a knitting addict? (Ok, all of us, but one in particular.) Lily of Flitwick
10) Which housemate loves to sing? Diana Lockhart
11) Which housemate has issues with muggle devices? Ginny Crookshanks
12) Which housemate likes Darth HelloKitty? Ceciley Fortescue
13) Which housemate has a member of the family with his own fan club? Queen Frysia
14) Which housemate has never-ending PMS? Olivia Moody-Gaunt
15) Which housemate originally comes from South New Joisey? Penelope Caerphilly
16) Which housemate “adores” European chocolates? Clara Clovenhoof
17) Which housemate has a roommate who seriously put a crimp in her communication abilities? Rowena Weasley
18) Which housemate was fortunate enough to lose her HP husband? Lavender Diggory Dolohov
19) Which housemate likes some Nascar dude? Andi Finch-Fletchley
20) Which housemate needs a new time-turner? Ophelia Crookshanks

Woo Hoo I'm a Prefect

2009-02-11T03:40:00.000-08:00

Yes! I'm a Prefect again this term! I was a Prefect when I was in Gryffindor, too, but then I was called a Head Girl and Cass was actually a Prefect? Confused yet?

Cass gets the easy job of Keeper of the Crucio list, and I have to be clever every week and create the House Quizzes. Seems like an uneven distribution of labor, doesn't it?

The first House Quiz was pretty easy--you just had to answer a bunch of questions about yourself. Esmerelda Beanswallow was the winner--Prince Corey chose her name out of the bowl. I bestowed some awesome Crazy4Dyeing yarn on her in the Slytherin colorway. Come to find out, she'd been stalking it for awhile and was very happy to receive it. Yippee--I love to make people happy! (Even though I am a Slytherin!)

2009-02-02T14:29:00.000-08:00

1) What are your three most favorite colors? Purple, blue, red
2) What are you three least favorite colors? Orange, gold, grey
3) Your favorite candy is chocolate covered nuts, snocaps, raisinets.
4) Draco, Lucius, or Snape? Definitely Snape!!!
5) Do you knit, crochet, or both? Both
6) What type of kit did you ask for? Felted purse--I'm hoping for a knitting bag type purse, or large bag of some sort
7) Acrylic—has its uses, should all be burned, best yarn to work with (choose one)? All yarn is usable, but I don't like to WEAR acrylic
8) Who is the Slytherin Head Girl this term? That would be Ms. Quinn
9) Name four “extras” you would love to receive in your kit. Hand lotion, flavored chapstick, dpn tubes, anything fun
10) What are your three most favorite scents? Lilac, honeysuckle, coconut
11) Do you prefer salty or sweet snacks? Both! Depends on the mood.
12) Which Slytherin is the Keeper of the Crucio List? My partner in crime and fellow Prefect, Cassandra Puddlemere
13) Do you really need more stitch markers? Really I don't--I hardly ever use them, and I have quite a collection
14) Dpns, circular, or straight? All of the above, of course
15) What yarn makes you squee? Haven't found any yet that actually make me emit a sound resembling a squee
16) Favorite HP Movie? I screwed up when I created the quiz--meant to say book, and it is Book 7
17) Favorite HP character? I really do love most of the main characters, but I'd have to say Snape
18) Who was your first choice for DADA professor? Sean Connery
19) What is the Slytherin Common Room called? The Pit
20) What makes you worthy of being in Slytherin House? Because I'm the Queen, what a dumb question!

She's Baaaaaack!

2009-01-28T04:49:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, and welcome to the start of a brand new term at Hogwarts School for Wayward Girls . . . I mean Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! The old gang is back together again this term for mischief and mayhem -- O, Moody, Lav DD, Esme, L to the F, Cass and we've even invited a new girl to join us--Quinn! Also joining our house this term is a Ravenclaw transfer named Emma Wigworthy--we'll have to get all the 'claw secrets from her! Oh, and I almost forgot--welcome to the new Ginny Crookshanks! I'm really looking forward to the term!

Another Term Has Come to an End

2008-11-19T07:18:00.000-08:00

Another fine, fun term at Hogwarts! Thanks to everyone for making this another enjoyable experience, and I so look forward to being with you all again next term! Congratulations to Ravenclaw for winning the House Cup--it was a hard fought battle! To all my Slytherin housemates--fun was had, friends were made, let's get 'em next time!

Third and Final Quidditch

2008-11-14T06:19:00.000-08:00

Go Slippery Slytherin Snakes!!!!!

1. Who was Tom Riddle Sr.'s girlfriend before Merope gave him the love potion?
b. Cecilia

2. What does Luna say floated into Harry's ear when he was in the train car that supposedly caused him to lose focus?
c. Wrackspurt

3. How much do the primary Apparition lessons cost?
d. 12 galleons

4. What is Professor Merrythought's first name?
b. Galatea

5. What Hogwarts club was Eileen Prince captain of?
b. Gobstones Club

6. Who is head of the Goblin Liaison office?
b. Dirk Cresswell

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

8. How many points does Snape take from Gryffindor for Harry's late arrival and muggle attire?
b. 70

9. When Profressory Slughorn first meets Hermione, he asks her whether she is related to Hector Dagworth-Granger. What society did Dgworth-Granger found?
d. The Most Extraordinary Society of Potioneers

10. Which of these describes Golpalott's Third Law?
d. The antidote for a blended poison will be equal to more than the sum of the antidotes for each of the separate components.

The Owl Has Flown the Coop

2008-11-12T16:27:00.001-08:00

Finally finished my partner's bag--Esmerelda Beanswallow shared her expertise with me this past weekend, and literally walked me through how to line it. Thanks, Esme!

I really hope Patonga likes what I sent. Even though this is my third term, I still get very nervous once the package is out of my hands. I always second-guess myself! Well, we'll soon see!

Awesome Kit Deliverage!

2008-11-10T16:42:00.001-08:00

Madam Ferula Finnigan has bestowed a most awesome kit upon my being! What was really great was that I got to open it with all the Stitches Witches present, so they got to share in my excitement! Please feast your eyes!
First, the Dumpling Bag (very cute)!

Not so great pic of the needles:

A journal:

A book to help with my sock knitting deficiency:

A pattern I have been coveting:

Beautiful yarn I already have plans for (felted clogs):

I thank you so, so much! ::HUGS::

Ack--Blog Slacking!

2008-11-07T05:08:00.000-08:00

Lava is sitting here complaining about the Hufflepuffs who haven't blogged yet, and I just realized--CRAP!--I haven't blogged yet!

So sorry, been cleaning and shopping and getting ready for the Stitches Witches to descend on the castle! We're attending a Muggle knitting convention today, and we're all very excited. Please visit our blog to share in the fun! We wish everyone were here with us!

Halloween Story

2008-11-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

Hmmm. It's been a very long time since anyone here celebrated Halloween. Since moving here 7 1/2 years ago, we've had not one trick-or-treater, have not done any Halloween decorating. The boys stopped dressing up long ago. I used to make their costumes, one was a wizard, one was a baseball (that was cute). We did the devil thing, the mouse (also very cute), the pirate. You know, every year for the school Halloween parade. Jeff and I have never gone out for Halloween, never dressed up, never gone to a Halloween party or dance or anything like that. I truly have no great Halloween stories to tell. And, truthfully, I'm too tired after coming home to play catch-up at work after a week's vacation to try to be clever and make one up. Sorry to disappoint. ETA: OMG how could I forget! We didn't dress up, but Cody and I went to Salem for Halloween two years ago!!!!! It was AWESOME! If you EVER get the opportunity to go there for Halloween--you simply MUST!!!!! The entire town is just one big party! The costumes are so elaborate! There are so many people, and everyone is great! Wait a minute, let me see if I can dig up a picture--we didn't take many because the camera broke!

That's Cody's favorite character, Jack from Nightmare Before Christmas.

Anyway, it ROCKED!

Home Again Home Again Jiggety Jig

2008-10-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

Vacation is over. Back to the real world. The good news is that we had a really great time and saw some beautiful sights. And, I visited five yarn shops in the week we were traveling. There were many more to visit, just didn't want to overdo it too much, what with Stitches coming up in two weeks. I'd like to share with you what I did acquire, though.
Here's my purchase from Uniquely You in Camden, Maine. It's the only yarn shop I visited in Maine. I had the opportunity to hit three others right there on Route 1 on the way to Rt. 295, but we missed them all. Beautiful mohair and wool and the Mohair Mitten pattern.

Here we have the Rowan Tapestry and the Spiral Rib Hat pattern from HeathHen on Martha's Vineyard.

I hit the jackpot in the Ladybug Yarn Shop in Dennis, MA, after driving around for forever trying to find it. I picked up the Le Fibre Nobili Imperiale Shawl Pattern and some Stork to make that up, the Just Ducky Hat & Booties pattern will be done in JoJoland Rhythm, and the Minnow Merino Daisy Chapeau pattern and yarn. I also picked up the a Plymouth Yarn Baby Cardigan, Hat and Socks pattern to use up some of my sock yarn.

Last but not least, I scored a very cute bunny pattern to be done in Berrocco Comfort from the Sage Yarn Shop in Falmouth.

Life is good! And even though I don't ever want vacation to end, it's good to be back home!

Even More Homework - - - While on Vacation!!!!!

2008-10-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Where did the first kiss between Harry and Ginny occur?
a. The Gryffindor Common Room

2. Severus Snape made an unbreakable vow to whom?
b. Narcissa Malfoy

3. Why is Hagrid upset with Ron, Harry and Hermione?
c. They did not take his class in their 6th year

4. Who is the Half-Blood Prince?
b. Severus Snape

5. At what age are you legally allowed to Apparate?
d. 17

6. How long does it take to brew a batch of Felix Felicis?
c. 6 months

7. What happens if you break an Unbreakable Vow?
c. You die

8. Which one of your roommates snores the loudest?
I do believe that would be Esmerelda Beanswallow!

9. Which Hogwart's student is secretly dating the new DADA Professor Lucius Whitmarsh?
Wisteria Lovegoods has been secretly dating Lucius Whitmarsh, but so have a few others, it seems. He's a player.

10. Describe your favorite item found in Weasley's Wizard Wheezes!
Guaranteed Ten-Second Pimple Vanisher by WonderWitch

Quidditch Round Two

2008-10-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

1. What animal does the portrait in the Muggle Prime Minster’s office resemble?
Frog

2. What drink does Romilda Vane try to give Harry?
Gillywater

3. What is the name of the person who heads the Holyhead Harpies?
Gwenog Jones

4. How many ‘Exceeds Expectation’ grades does Harry receive in his O.W.L’s?
5

5. What is Professor Sughorn’s favorite candy?
Crystallized Pineapple

6. What tattoo is Harry reported to have on his chest?
Hippogriff

7. What color robes do the staff at the Weasley’s shop wear?
Magenta

8. What is the man outside Flourish and Blotts selling?
Amulets

9. How much is the skull, which Hermione enquires about at Borgin and Burkes, worth?
16 Galleons

10. What are Professor Slughorn’s initials?
H.E.F

WOO HOO! Now, off to vacation! Slytherins--FIND THAT SNITCH!!!!!

MORE Homework!

2008-10-10T07:44:00.000-07:00

It's a real shame that Merope and Tom Sr. didn't use a condom. In Chapter 10, we are introduced to the dysfunction in Tom Riddle's early childhood that led him to become the dysfunctional adult known as Voldemort. "The child is father of the man" is a famous proverb that applies to Voldemort, as childhood is the most vital element in a person's development. While it is true that some can overcome severe dysfunction in childhood to become a functional adult, this does not apply to Voldy. It is in this chapter that we come to an understanding of the rationale behind the evolution of Voldy's personality. We also come to an understanding of Tom's hatred for half-bloods, as he himself was one. He just could never rise above the fact that he had been conceived through trickery, and not as a result of love. He was abandoned by his father, lost his mother, and was left to his own devices in an orphanage. Tough start, huh? He was in serious need of some professional psychotherapy, IMHO.

Homework--Snake Style

2008-09-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

Are you a sock knitter?What are your foot measurements?
I truly wish I was a sock knitter. I've knitted many tiny socks, and even a pair of toddler socks, but when I attempt a regular size sock, I ALWAYS either mess up and have to frog, or I freeze at the part where I have to pick up stitches. I think it's a mental block kind of thing, and I'm also thinking that maybe an actual sock knitting class might help. Oh, btw, I wear a 6 1/2 shoe!

Do you have a yarn winder and/or a swift?
I have the plain old plastic ball winder, and my husband recently built a beautiful swift for me (see below for probable reason). So, yes, I have both!

Where/how to you keep you needles/hooks?
All my dpns and crochet hooks are in one metal box. My straights are all in a flower vase, and I have two interchangeable sets (Denise and KnitPicks Harmony) still in their cases.

Do you collect anything?
Yarn and yarn related things. I used to collect Dreamsicles, but got kind of tired of displaying a bunch of dust collectors! Long ago I collected mouse related items, and I do have a collection of snowmen that I put out at Christmastime. Oh, and I do have a collection of bird things. I guess I do collect stuff, but not on purpose--it just kinda happens.

What is your favorite type of music? Are you MP3 ready?
I love music, mostly listen to oldies and classic rock. I do have an IPOD, and my telephone is the Samsung Juke, which is also an MP3 player.

Do you like sweets? What are your favorites?
Unfortunately I do like sweets. I love chocolate covered nuts, and SnoCaps, and Raisinets!

What is your living situation like? Any pets? Children?
At this exact moment, I only have one of the boys living at home, the youngest. The oldest moved back out this afternoon, but I 'm not sure for how long. The middle one is in an eco-village in Tennessee, but will be home on Nov. 1. I had a beloved cat for seven years, but my husband got rid of him when I recently went to Reno on vacation. Long, sad story. I don't know if I'll ever forgive him--it was a real prick move.

Do you have an online wish list (Amazon, Etsy, Loopy Ewe, etc.)? Please include links for your swap pal.
I do not have any online wish lists. The only wish list I have is in my head.

Favorite Harry Potter movie character?
I love Severus Snape. It breaks my heart that he was so mistreated as a young boy, and warms my heart that he turns out to be such a good guy. I could just squeeze him!

An Oldie But a Goodie

2008-09-27T06:27:00.001-07:00

What do we eat? Eagle meat! How do we eat it? RAW!
What do we eat? Badger meat! How do we eat it? RAW!
What do we eat? Lion meat! How do we eat it? RAW!

ETA: Enid, You Rock! Slytherins Find the Snitch in Round 1!!!!!!!!

Quidditch--It's On!

2008-09-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

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 going 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 Sluhorn transform into when he was trying to hide from Harry and Professor Dumbledore?
a. An armchair

5. What grade did Harry get for Herbology?
a. E – Exceeds Expectation

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

7. What is Professor 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

Narcissa

Snape

Bellatrix

Professor Sprout

Professor Dumbledore

Picture Day!

2008-09-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Picture Day, and here I am! A stray kitty wandered into the photo shoot--isn't he adorable! I miss Max sooooooooooooooo much! I'm trying to hold off getting a new cat until we return from our vacation in October, but these cats just keep crossing my path--it's like all these signs, like fate knows I NEED A CAT!!!!! Now, if I could only get Serf Jeffrey to realize that . . .

Ugh! More Homework

2008-09-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

This one's for Slytherin House, so if you're looking for the HSKS one for points, look down one post!

Do you knit and/or crochet? Yes, I do both.
How long have you been at your craft? 3 years
Do you spin? I will after I attend Stitches East and buy a spindle, right Stitches Witches?
What type of spinning do you do (drop spindle or wheel)? Will be doing drop spindle.
Are there any other crafts that you participate in? Not any more, used to do cross stitch.
What are your favorite yarns/fibers? I'm liking the eco-friendly cottons and bamboos.
What are your LEAST favorite yarns/fibers? I'm just not that crazy about acrylic, but I stil use it for some projects.
Are there any types/brands of yarn that you are dying to work with but haven’t gotten a chance? There are oh so many . . .
What are your favorite types of projects to knit/crochet? I really like doing bags. I'm having a really hard time with full size socks.
What are you currently working on? My first sweater!
Anything you plan to start this autumn? Whatever tickles my fancy!
What is your favorite Finished Object? (Please, post a picture if you would like.) I love all my FOs, simply because they're done! But, I'd have to say the bag I made for Lizzie Wychwood last term was very pleasing to me.
**I also like the bag I just finished for my Twilight Knitting Swap partner, but can't post pics just in case she's peeking!
Are their any knitting/crochet techniques that you would like to learn? Duplicate stitch, intarsia, SOCK KNITTING THE RIGHT WAY!

HSKS Questionnaire

2008-09-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

Please post the answers to this questionnaire on your blog Tuesday, September 16th. You will gain 5 House Points for posting it and filling it out on time.

Potter Name: Queen Frysia

Rav ID: terik

I am allergic to: nothing that I know of

Pets that I have: long sad story, but none at the present

My favorite yarn: I Love Colinette Yarn and I Love Hand-Dyed Yarn.

If you are a Ravenclaw, do you prefer the film colors or the book colors? I am NOT a Ravenclaw

My favorite flavor: I'll say cinammon

My favorite holiday: Christmas

I would like to receive a: scarf kit or yarn dyeing kit, have enough sock stuff to last a lifetime and haven't even knitted my first full-size sock yet--what happened to the bag kit? I love to make bags!

List your favorite brand of needles or hooks, including size and length: I like KnitPicks Harmony (doesn't everyone?) I really need a set of the elusive 1 1/2 dpns, in case you're wondering

Is there a brand that you are dying to try?: I'm a huge fan of hand-dyed yarns, and there are so many nice yarns I haven't tried yet. For instance, I have no alpaca in my stash. I just acquired Malabrigo for the first time in a swap a few months ago. I know, I'm pathetic.

I've participated in HSKS: This is my third term!

Do you have a birthday during this swap? If so which day? My birthday is November 2, so I do believe it will be during the swap.

Present from a Friend

2008-09-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Woo Hoo! I just received a package from a werewolf friend I "met" over the summer! She sent a wonderful hand-knitted, felted bag in beautiful jeweltones! The bag had two buttons on it, with pictures of Bella and (yum) Edward!

She also sent two sets of knitting needles--Brittany size 4 dpns and KnitPicks size 1 dpns! A beautiful bracelet was included (Mel's Bracelet) as well as beautiful stitch markers in my very favorite color--purple! I'm pretty sure the stitch markers were made by our very own Lavender Diggory-Dolohov (aka KnottieKnitter)! Extremely soft Misti Cotton in Black and Cream will make the wonderful Bite Me scarf pattern that was also in the package! The Bite Me scarf is all the rage with my vampire friends! Here are more pics:

Thanks Anne! I love everything and can't wait to get started on the scarf! I actually have a gift for you, as well, and will be putting it in the mail on Monday! I hope you enjoy what I send to you as much as I enjoyed receiving what you sent to me!

Welcome Back to Hogwarts!

2008-09-07T13:38:00.001-07:00

Hooray, Term 6 is about to begin! I've been very busy, hanging out with some really cool vampires and werewolves during the break! Gosh, I wish one of those vampires would give me a second look--they are absolutely scrumptious!

One of the girls dared me to take this test to see who my future Hogwarts husband should be. Hmmm, never thought Bill Weasley would be an option, but if I can manage to have Fleur sent away, then who knows . . .

Well, see everyone soon! Can't wait to party in the Pit!

My Kit Has Arrived

2008-07-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

I came home from Reno Tuesday night to find my HSKS5 kit on the counter! I was so excited! LunaLuna from Hufflepuff House did an excellent job knitting the bag, and she made it very special by felting "Queen" on the front flap! She also sent some candies and tea from her native country, Finland. Included were two sets of bamboo double point needles and a row counter! The sock pattern looks beautiful, too, but is in a foreign language so I'm not sure how to read it. I may try to type it into a language translation program--that could be fun! Four skeins of yarn were sent--two Schachenmayr Juvel in a deep green and two Hjerte sock in a navy/teal/silver colorway (can't wait to use this!). Thanks, Luna, for everything. It was exciting to receive a package from across the Atlantic! Here's the pics of my goodies:

Final Quidditch Match--GO BIG GREEN!

2008-07-16T08:44:00.000-07:00

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 Hermione are there visiting him at night when they are not supposed to). When she walks past the place where Harry, Ron and Hermione 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 Hermione for Christmas?
a. "New Theory of Numerology"(edited for spelling!)

Picture Scavenger Hunt
Padma Patil

Hannah Abott

Percy

Dumbledore's Army

Cedric Diggory

(Extra 5 pts - What movie will Robert Pattinson star in this December?)
Dude . . . TWILIGHT!!!!!!!

Handy Little Contraption

2008-07-07T18:13:00.001-07:00

King Jeffrey made a handy little contraption for me this weekend.

It doesn't look like much, does it? But look what it can do!

Hold all my errant little mini-skeins, all balled up! Oh, it's so nice to have a man who is handy! Thanks, King Jeffrey!

IHUKALDSH Finished

2008-07-06T16:14:00.001-07:00

Finished my Inter House Unity Knit A Long Dream Swatch Headband today. It's on the blocking board King Jeffrey made for me! Behold:

Here's a closer pic:

Hmmm, now do I RAOK a certain Ravenclaw, or keep it for myself?

InterHouse Unity KAL

2008-07-03T03:40:00.001-07:00

I have a confession to make. We weren't supposed to start knitting on the DreamSwatch project until July 4, but I just couldn't stand the suspense. I kept reading the pattern and was so intrigued by the new stitch that I just HAD to start it! Besides, DH was on an all night sailing race, and I had ALL NIGHT to myself. So, here's the progress so far.

Pretty, huh? I just used some stash yarn--didn't have the cool bamboo the pattern calls for and didn't want to drive the 30 minutes to the LYS to see if they had any. Why is it in Ravenclaw colors, you ask? The reason is that, if I'm fortunate enough to be chosen to receive a RAOK, then I will, in turn, RAOK a certain Ravenclaw who I'd like to befriend. If that happens, she will be the recipient of the final product, and if not, it will look good with jeans and my denim shirt.

Excellent Quidditch Match

2008-06-26T03:17:00.000-07:00

Now, that was a good Quidditch match! Lot of fun following the clues. I got stuck on the Scotland bit AND the fact that there were two clues left on Slytherin blogs. I may have managed eventually to figure it out, but CentyB was fast. And Cass was on her tail! It was very close, but Gryffindor won out this round. I didn't think it was necessary to do this bonus round, but since we did it, I enjoyed it. Boy, that Headmistress sure is clever!

Quidditch Round 2

2008-06-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

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

b. Professor Umbridge

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

c. Magnolia Crescent

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

c. Narcissa and Bellatrix

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

b. The Shrinking 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?

Answer: 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?

c. Alastor Moody, Nymphadora Tonks, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Elphias Doge, Dedalus Diggle, Remus Lupin, Emmeline Vance, Sturgis Podmore, Hestia Jones7

7. Moody used the Disillusionment Charm on Harry.

a. Yes

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

d. All of these. Lucious by marriage

9. At what age did Sirius leave his home?

Answer:16

10. How many of the original Order members were killed (don’t include those who disappeared)?

b. 8

Picture Scavenger

Kingsley Shacklebolt

Bellatrix Lestrange

Nymphadora Tonks

Remus Lupin

Hagrid's Homework Assignment

2008-06-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

The Care of Magical Creatures--my most favorite class here at Hogwarts! I've been told I excel at the subject.

Truth be told, all creatures are magical to me. When not at Hogwarts, I live in a suburban Muggle community, on five wooded acres. I'm surrounded by creatures at all times, and each season seems to bring more of them to my woods. There are first the squirrels, which I supply with 5 pounds of unsalted roasted peanuts each week. There are usually five or six of them each day, waiting outside the garage door for their daily dessert. They sometimes share their nuts with a mother and father cardinal, some beautiful blue jays, the occasional woodpecker and a nuthatch. Also vying for the nut stash is the chipmunk who lives under the pond in the front of the house. He can stuff three nuts at one time in his mouth--one in the left cheek, one in the right, and one between his teeth, as he scampers away to return to his hole under the pond. In the pond are 10 adult fish, having grown from tiny feeder fish when I first placed them in the pond 6 years ago. The number of fish fluctuates, as there is a menacing crane who occasionally helps himself to my pond residents, but the numbers go up again when the fish lay their eggs. Oh, and my raccoon friend! He gets the table scraps each evening, and fresh bread if there are no leftovers to feed him. These are the regulars, along with the too numerous to count birds that feed off of the dozen feeders in the yard that stay filled with various seeds and suet.

At any given time, one may see a fox, or a deer (or two or three), snapping turtles, or rabbits wandering through the yard. We keep a salt lick in the back of the house for the deer, and a tray of corn in front of the garden, to fulfill the appetite so the deer won't make a meal of the veggies that grow there.

All of my creatures are magical, but the most magical appeared to me one night last week. In the front garden, next to the pond, is a large shepherd's hook that holds a planter of pansies. As King Jeffrey and I returned from the high school graduation, something caught our attention in the floodlights of the pond. There, perched ever so regally on top of the shepherd's hook, was the most beautiful owl I'd ever seen! Actually, it was the only owl I'd ever seen outside of a zoo. We sat for a few moments in the middle of the driveway, watching to see what it would do. We pulled slowly into the garage, not closing the garage door for fear that it would take flight. I urged King Jeffrey to get the camera so that we could take a picture. As we walked slowly out of the garage, much to our dismay, we discovered the owl had flown away! Everyone was excited at the sighting, but I came to realize that this was a sign. This was the motivation I needed to finish Ms. Lizzie's package and get it ready to send. I knew that when the owl returned, he'd be ready to make the long flight over the Atlantic. So, Ms. Lizzie, without further ado, the beautiful owl is leaving my woods today for the long journey. Treat him with love and tender care, as I treat all my magical creatures, and he will bring you much love and joy!

Meme Posting

2008-06-07T22:43:00.000-07:00

Some of my classmates have been tagged with a Meme, so I thought I'd get into the act.

1. What were you doing 10 years ago? Sitting on a soccer field, or a baseball field, or at the basketball court year-round watching three cute little muggle boys play sports.
2. What are 5 things on my to-do list today? Finish the _______ for Ms. Lizzie's package, go to Hancock Fabrics to see if I can find some _______ for Ms. Lizzie's ____. Swim in the pool because the heat index here will be 105 degrees. Make shrimp salad with the leftover steamed shrimp from dinner last night. Finish listening to Twilight.
3. Snacks I enjoy: nuts, chocolate, potato chips, cheesecake.
4. Things I would do if I were a billionaire: Buy houses for the boys, buy new sailboat for King Jeffrey, open my own business having something to do with renewable energy, travel to other countries, identify worthwhile charities to contribute to, set up scholarship at local high school, knit a lot.
5. Places I've lived: Maryland.
6. Jobs I've had: accounts payable, research assistant, evaluation consultant, training manager, bookkeeper.
7. Peeps I want to know more about: Barack Obama, anyone he chooses as the VP, any and all of my Hogwarts schoolmates, my future daughters in law.

Shot Down In My Prime

2008-06-03T06:26:00.000-07:00

Well, it appears I've met my demise in the Hat Dueling Club. The hat I made for Electra the Enchanting was delivered to her at 1:58 on Monday, June 2, but the hat she made for me was delivered to me at 11:03 on the same day. So, her hat reached its victim first. I can't wear the hat she made me, because it only has a 17" circumference, but it's ok, because it will be donated in short time to S.P.E.W.. So, all's well that ends well! Truth be told, I have many projects on my to-do list, including some more knitting for Ms. Lizzie, so it won't break my heart to not have to knit more hats for the dueling club.

ETA: The hat from Electra is really beautiful--so sorry it is way too small! It's the nicest shade of purple (my fav color) and very well knitted. Thought I should let everyone know that I really did love it, even though I can't wear it.

It's On!

2008-05-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

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

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

3. Which educational decree introduced a High Inquisitor to Hogwarts?
d. 23

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?
b. Neville Longbottom

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

6. What kind of bush does Harry hide behind to listen to the news?
b. 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?
b. 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?
c. Golden cherubs and pink confetti

9. How old is Sturgis Podmore and where does he live?
a. 38 and number 2 Laburnum Gardens Clapham

10. What did Fred and George Weasley do to Montague?
a. Forced him head-first into a Vanishing Cabinet on the first floor.

Fred and George Weasley (Together)

Hog’s Head Pub

Sirius Black

Mr. Weasley & Harry (Together)

Draco Malfoy

Not Quite Colin Firth, but . . .

2008-05-28T04:59:00.000-07:00

Lavender and Cassandra, Just thought you should see what you're fighting over.

Not the best picture, but the first one I came across. Notice he's wearing the Slytherin colors. He's pure Slytherin, through and through.

Don't You Just Love Contests?

2008-05-25T05:26:00.001-07:00

Our very own Housemate, Emma Gorodok, has posted a contest for her new bag design! Here's my entry:

I recently knitted my first pair of socks! I had entered a swap called Guilty Pleasures/Good Karma. You had to put together a swap kit of luxurious yarn and other luxury items to send to your partner, and then would receive such a kit in return. That was the Guilty Pleasures part. The Good Karma part was having to knit objects for a charity called Warm Woolies, located in Denver, Colorado. Their requirements were that all knitted items had to be made from 100% wool, and they offered free patterns to use. The first item I knitted for Warm Woolies was a hat, using their Warm Woolies Phat Hat pattern.

I saw, though, that a lot of people were knitting socks--something I had yet to try. So, I looked through my stash, and chose the first wool yarn I came across. And I went through my patterns to find the sock pattern that looked doable for a first-timer. And, here's the result--my first pair of socks!

I've mailed both the hat and socks to Warm Woolies, making this the first time I've ever knitted for charity. Now, if I am lucky enough to win Emma's contest, it will be the first time I've won a contest like this!

Yay! First House Quiz

2008-05-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

1. How many goal posts are on the Quidditch Pitch? There are six total--three on each end.

2. Who was portrayed in the picture that kept screaming in the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix? Sirius' mother, Walburga Black

3. Who was giving Hagrid all of those bruises and cuts? Hagrid's half-brother Grawp

4. Who left his shift early, leaving Harry open to a dementor attack? Mundungus Fletcher

5. What was the name of the Squib who came to Harry's side after the attack? Arabella (!) Doreen Figg

6. What position was Percy promoted to that made him have a 'row' with Mr. Weasley? Junior Assistant to Minister Fudge

7. What secret does Hermione know about Rita Skeeter? Rita is an Unregistered Animagus

8. Name one person other than Sirius Black who was scratched off of the Family tree wall? Phineas Black was disowned and scratched off of the Family Tree for supporting Muggle rights.

9. Who discovers the room of requirement? Neville

10. Where is the first DA meeting held? My favorite place in Hogsmeade, The Hog's Head

Muggle Ball

2008-05-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

Someone very near and dear to my heart attended a Muggle Ball this weekend. They called it "Senior Prom", the celebratory dance prior to high school graduation. He was very excited about the chance to get all dressed up with someplace special to go. He borrowed Ron Weasley's dress robes, but, alas, they were too small. He had to go and rent a tuxedo--the Muggle version of dress robes. Here's what it looked like:

We had great fun when he hammed it up a bit, pretending to be a Muggle Male Model.

He had asked a very lovely young lady to accompany him. Much like Harry, he had trouble getting up the nerve. Once he did, though, he actually asked his date over the loudspeaker at the high school lacrosse game, at which she was participating on the field as one of the players. Very courageous if you ask me! She was very pretty, and they looked really nice together.

Needless to say, Muggles don't ride brooms, so they rented a peculiar Muggle transport that simply had to have been created using magic!

Magic can be the only explanation of how all these Muggle teens could fit in one car!
Isn't that amazing? He was even so kind as to indulge a picture with King Jeffrey and I.

I wish we'd have a ball at Hogwarts! How about it, Headmistress?

QF Meets O at MSW

2008-05-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

The first weekend in May, I visited a Muggle fiber festival called Maryland Sheep and Wool. What an exciting place to be if you are interested in the Fiber Arts! Just about any type of yarn you can imagine was available there, as was all sorts of tools for the spinning and dyeing and retrieving of fiber. Hagrid asked me to go on a mission of sorts while I was there. He had heard about the exotic Muggle animal that goes by the name of Rabbit. So, off on the hunt I went, and after wandering around for hours, and being parted with many of my Muggle coins, I finally found where this exotic animal resides.

I had agreed to meet Ophelia Crookshanks outside this mysterious building with no doors (how do they keep the rabbits in?). Having never seen her in Muggle street clothes, she agreed that she would wear something Hogwarty so that I would recognize her. I spotted her immediately.

We pondered over why there didn't seem to be any rabbits in this building, when all of a sudden, the building began to fill with Muggles! They had exterminated all the rabbits and taken over their building! In very short time, the building was filled with Muggles of all ages and sizes!

We overheard some of them saying that they were waiting for their leaders! Apparently, this was a cult and we had stumbled upon their meeting! Soon their leaders appeared.

What a commotion those Muggles made! Cheering, clapping, whistling! The cult leaders had very odd names--CodeMonkey, Frecklegirl, and RainyDayGoods. They handed out buttons--Ophelia and I managed to each snag one. The Muggles just mobbed their leaders, but they didn't seem to mind.

Unfortunately for Hagrid, I wasn't able to retrieve any of the rare Rabbits. I did, however, retrieve some fiber to knit up for my Hogwarts pals. I got some Slytherin, Gryffindor and Ravenclaw yarns--didn't find any suitable for the Puffs. (No, I'm not showing the Gryffindor yarn--as that is to go to my special spoilee!)

I also got some yarn for a special occasion shawl, and have already knitted it up.

I think I'll use the shawl when taking my midnight strolls with Professor . . . I mean, my dormmates. All in all, it was a very enjoyable time. I do hope to visit more Muggle fiber festivals in the very near future. Must save up some more Muggle coins, as I depleted my collection this time around! Ophelia and I must have done a good job blending in, as no one pegged us for witches!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T04:58:00.000-07:00

Prepare to be Spoiled!

2008-05-10T13:06:00.001-07:00

Ms. Lizzie Wychwood of Gryffindor House--be prepared! I intend to totally and thoroughly spoil you, to the best of my ability! I will show you some good old Slytherin hospitality! It is my intent to put together the best package Hogwart's has ever seen, especially for you!

(Ok QF--breathe deeply--no pressures, no worries!)

HSKS5

2008-05-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

Join. Now. Do It. 5...4...3...2...1. Now. Stop Reading. Go Join! Click Here to Do It!

Queen F Meets the Queen of Cookies

2008-05-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

In the Muggle village of Baltimore sits a delightful little cafe, owned and operated by none other than our very own Esmerelda Beanswallow. I had the good fortune this week to visit Carma's Cafe and to enjoy lunch with Esmie! My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed our lunches, but OMG THE COOKIES! Now, I may be a Queen by birthright, but Esmerelda is most certainly the Queen of Cookies! Please feast your eyes upon these delights--the famed Pink Dalmation and the soon to be famous Pumpkin Oatmeal!

Now, feast your eyes also upon the Two Queens, waving to their loyal subjects!

And more eye candy--the handsome gentleman behind the register! (Must get more info on this chap from Esmie!)

I made the serious mistake of taking some cookies home to the family and never did get to eat any of the Chocolate Chips, which disturbed me greatly. Looks like I shall have to make another trip into Baltimore!

Esmie, thanks again for the wonderful visit! Can't wait to do it again!

Sign of Things to Come?

2008-04-26T05:01:00.000-07:00

The strangest thing happened to me. I set this diary up, sent the magic link to a friend, and she couldn't get in to see it because it was on review for breaking some type of rule! I haven't even officially become a Slytherin and I'm already breaking rules!

Welcome!

2008-04-23T15:21:00.001-07:00

Welcome back to another exciting term at Hogwart's School for Wayward Girls . . . I mean Witchcraft and Wizardry! I'm so very looking forward to this term, as many of us have wandered, no . . . sprinted . . . over to the dark side!