Help Celebrate A Life

My daughter-in-law, Darcy, is a breast cancer survivor. To celebrate her victory over cancer, she is taking part in a 2-day, 150 mile bike ride. Please read her story in her own words:

What am I up to now?

I was diagnosed with breast cancer almost six years ago. I was 28, married and had a 1 year old daughter. I was fortunate to have the support of my family and friends through the entire process. It seemed that there was always someone there to count on when I needed assistance. I appreciated all the things I received. Some of you sent letters with words of encouragement, watched Ellie so I could rest or go to a doctor's appointment, said prayers, facilitated a conversation about something other than cancer, offered a ride to an appointment, provided a shoulder to cry on, or a meal to give to my family. I felt so fortunate to have the support that I found within my family and circle of friends. I was lucky in that I didn't need to look outside of this network for additional help.

Today, I am doing well. I have not had any recurrences, and all my numbers have come back within a normal range. I am still having every nook and cranny scanned and checked every six months but I feel like I am going to beat this disease. I have recently been blessed to have a second daughter, and I look forward to raising both of my girls with my husband.

At this point in my recovery, I want to share my story and help support other women who are dealing with breast cancer. When I saw this ride, I felt it was a good fit for me. (Other than the fact I haven't ridden my bike since last June!) I enjoy biking and understand the hardships of meal planning during cancer treatment. Some of my friends and family sent homemade meals for us to enjoy. These meals were a gift for me in that I didn't have to worry about what we were going to eat. I knew it was going to be delicious and nutritious. It was a night I would not have to smell foods while they cooked and I could rest and not be in the kitchen.

Open Arms is striving to become like the network I had, but for others who are in need. They are providing meals for breast cancer patients and their families going through treatment, as my friends and family did for me. No one can offer a 100 percent cure, but we can support those who are going through treatment. Everyone needs some support while going through this process, and Open Arms aims to provide that support.


Will You Support Me?

I am very excited to announce that I will be participating in the first annual Breast Cancer Ride. This two-day bicycle event, taking place June 21-22, 2008 will support those living with breast cancer in Minnesota.

All proceeds benefit Open Arms of Minnesota, a nonprofit organziation that for 21 years has prepared and delivered free, nutritious meals to those affected with many diseases, including those living with breast cancer, their care givers and dependent children.

If you are able to help support Darcy and celebrate the victory of all women over cancer, please go to:

Darcy's Fundraising Page

My beautiful granddaughters will thank you!

My Kit Arrived

When I received home on Monday, I found a very tired little owl waiting for me with a big white box. I wasted NO time ripping into that box. I think I may have scared the poor little owl, but he was duly rewarded.

I carefully but quickly took all the shiny silver parcels out of the box and managed to use some rarely practiced patience in order to take a photo before disrobing the parcels, starting with the smallest and working up to the largest. (I like to save the best for last.)

First off, I collect stitch markers so I was amused by the stitch markers made for me by Toni dela Weasley. They are Luna Lovegoods butterbeer cork stitch markers!! What a wonderful addition to my collection. I love them and will definitely be reminded of Toni every time I use them, and I will use them!

I also got great Brittany needles (a brand I do like to use), GORGEOUS, BEAUTIFUL handpainted sock yarn, coffee (my addiction!), English breakfast tea (my favorite tea), a container holding some VERY yummy candy called "Sponge Candy" (which I tried out immediately and, Toni, I agree with you ~ IT'S DELICIOUS! I also received a wonderful notebook FULL of sock patterns!!!!! It's even organized in a great HSKS binder. I have already been through the patterns and have decided I must do them all, starting with the first one!

By far the best piece of the kit was in the last parcel ~ an absolutely perfect felted satchel!! Toni, how did you know that satchels are my FAVORITE type of bag? This one is so perfect, so ME! The long strap is just the length I prefer. It's exactly what I would have picked out for myself! You definitely did your research.

Thank you SO MUCH, Toni!! You spoiled me beyond belief.

The Robins Have Returned to Minnesota

Yes, it is official...the robins have returned! Can blooming tulips be far behind? After getting 6" of snow on Monday, it's glorious to think that spring will eventually arrive. The prediction is that we may see 60 degrees tomorrow.


I just found out about a fun murder mystery comedy called "Stitch Bitch 'n' Die" which is being put on near my home. The plot is "the newest member of the knitting group has been brutually stabbed with a pair of knitting needles! Who is innocent? Who is guilty? Who will finish their scarf first?" The show is B.Y.O.K. -- bring your own knitting! We can knit while watching the play. It's running the next 3 weekends. I do think I need to take in this play!

Cursed Sock

Here it is...the cursed sock #2. I can't believe how quickly and easily it knit up on the 5th try. I want to thank whomever it was that removed the curse!

The Curse Has Been Lifted

Celebrate..come on!! WHOO HOO!! The nasty curse has been lifted and the second sock is finished! It took only 5 attempts but the last time truly worked like a charm. I started it on Friday night and finished it yesterday. The curse tried to grab hold of the yarn a couple times, but I was doubly alert and stopped the nasty thing before it totally infected the yarn. Those stitched fell into place instead of attempting to escape and wrap itself in places it shouldn't be. I guess all that homework this term has helped!

It's Finally Spring!

It's finally spring and I can't wait to ....

...have the first hamburgers and hotdogs on the grill....

....get the ole wave runner out on the lakes....

...and experience the wonderful smell of freshly cut grass!!

My New Yarn

Look at what I got! Isn't it gorgeous? Peacock yarn! The color in the photo isn't quite right. It's a wee bit too bright and the deep purples don't show. It's so yummy. I can't wait to start a new pair of peacock socks. Can one ever have too many peacock socks? I think not!

Quidditch Round 3 Answers

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

c. Professor Grubbly-Plank

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

c. Dumbledore's Giant Mistake

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

b. Viktor Krum

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

a. Sonorus

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

b. A Swedish Short-Snout

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

b. Troy and Quigley

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

d. 12

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

b. A basilisk egg

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

d. Silver smoke rings

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

a. Yes

What's in an Aura

I'm only just starting to learn about auras. I recently had my aura read ~ it's all pink and lavender ~ and it revealed that I know how to get what I want and that I "see the total picture". Okay, cool.

I am, however, confused about the auras of others. There is a girl in another House who I don't know, have never talked to, nor had any interaction with. I occasionally run into her in the ladies' room and when I do I get an automatic reaction of major dislike, almost like hatred, and complete repulsion! There is nothing about her that would cause me to feel that way but I do. I wonder what kind of aura she has? Why do I react that way towards her? Did I know her in a past life? I must hit the books and learn more about auras and past lives.

The Wonderful World of "F"

Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same 1st initial. You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question

What is your name....................Fleur Lovegoods
4 Letter Word........................Foul
Vehicle..............................Ferrari
City.................................Fargo
Boy Name.............................Fred
Girl Name............................Fiona
Alcoholic Drink......................Firewhisky
Occupation...........................Florist
Something you wear...................Fake Fur
Celebrity............................Fergy
Food.................................French Fries
Something found in a bathroom........Footcream
Reason for Being Late................Flat tire
Cartoon Character....................Flower (Bambi)
Something You Shout..................FIRE!
Animal...............................Fox
Body part............................Finger

What's In A Name

You are loving, compassionate, and ruled by your feelings. You are able to be a foundation for other people... but you still know how to have fun. Sometimes your emotions weigh you down, but you generally feel free from them. You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow. You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily. Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. You are a very lucky person. Things just always seem to go your way. And because you're so lucky, you don't really have a lot of worries. You just hope for the best in life. You're sometimes a little guilty of being greedy. Spread your luck around a little to people who need it. You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something. You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense. You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun. You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life. You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you. At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself. You are very hyper. You never slow down, even when it's killing you. You're the type of person who can be a workaholic during the day... and still have the energy to party all night. Your energy is definitely a magnet for those around you. People are addicted to your vibe. You are deeply philosophical and thoughtful. You tend to analyze every aspect of your life. You are intuitive, brilliant, and quite introverted. You value your time alone. Often times, you are grumpy with other people. You don't appreciate them trying to interfere in your affairs. You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row. You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace. People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality. You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong. You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know. You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do.

What's" Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Will it never end?

I know I should be paying attention in class, but I just looked out the window and saw that it is again (or still?) snowing. It made me so blue....which in turn snowballed and I managed to turn all the students in front of me various shades of blue as well. I guess it's back to detention for me. ::le sigh::

How Lucky Am I?

Your Luck Quotient: 67%

You have a high luck quotient. More often than not, you've felt very lucky in your life. You may be randomly lucky, but it's probably more than that. Optimistic and open minded, you take advantage of all the luck that comes your way.

How Lucky Are You?

Fleur Delacour

I love this assignment! Fleur Delacour is the person I'd most like to grow up to be. She is beautiful, intelligent, graceful and represents her school with honor. I think of her as wispy and almost ethereal.

Fleur Isabelle Delacour (Flower of the Court) is a student at Beauxbatons Academy in France. Her father, although unnamed, is described as being round and having a short black beard. Her mother, Apolline, is 1/2 Veela making Fleur 1/4 Veela. Fleur is, therefore, fully magical but not a pure-blood. Fleur and her sister Gabriella inherited their mother's silvery-blonde hair, pale eyes, good looks and ability to entrance men. Veelas are semi-human, semi-magical. Their dance is magically seductive to all males. However, when angry they transform into something more like Harpies ~ their faces turn into cruel-beaked bird heads and long scaly wings burst from their shoulders. They can launch fireballs from their hands.

Fleur's wand is 9-1/2" long, inflexible, and made of rosewood. It contains one of her Veela grandmother's hairs.

Fleur initially gave the impression of being aloof and unfriendly, but after she was rescued by Harry during the second task in the Triwizard Tournament, she became warmer toward Harry and Hogwarts. I can somewhat relate to Fleur in that respect. Since I am quite shy, I feel I sometimes give the initial impression of being aloof and unfriendly. However, once I become comfortable with my surroundings and the people surrounding me, I feel free to be myself...a friendly, compassionate person.

Fleur attended Beauxbatons (beautiful wands) Academy of Magic which is located in France. Beauxbatons is described as being a palace, not a castle, and it contains no suits of armour. While Hogwarts has a Great Hall, Beauxbatons has a Dining Chamber. Beauxbatons appears to be much more gentile and feminine than Hogwarts...an academy I would have loved to attend. I bet there are lots of peacock feathers and colors everywhere!

Where Is Everyone?

It's so very quiet around the Ravenclaw Common Room. Is everyone ill or busy studying? (Oh, by the way, I have heard rumors that we should be intently studying our charms because there may be a quiz coming up!)

This morning I went for a long walk along Diagon Alley with an old friend. We stopped for butterbeer and a light lunch of fruit, cheese and sweet bread. We also stopped and bought shoes. Can you ever have too many shoes?? After we parted ways, I stopped at Lovegoods' Fabulous Fibers and picked up lots of yummy yarns that Mummy had waiting for me. Shhhh...don't tell!! I found some wonderful silky wool for my spoilee! Do you know how much yarn I have bought for my spoilee?! I just keep finding more and more that is "perfect". I guess I'll have to make the ultimate sacrifice and save some of it for myself. Don't you feel sorry for me? Or, maybe I should find another spoilee!

I also stopped off at a quilt store where I haven't been in ages. I could have spent all my earnings in there! But I actually honestly practiced some restaint and came away with just a couple things. I was grining and slapping myself on the back for getting away so inexpensively. (Then I remembered how much I spent on yarn!)

So now I'm back in my dorm room with my goodies spread out on my bed waiting for my friends. Oh! I forgot! I found peacock colored yarn for my next pair of socks. They will compliment nicely my bed curtains (and robes and bags and -- and -- and!)

Quiddith 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

House Quiz No. 3

1. What is Professor McGonnagall's first name? Minerva

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

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

4. What is Rita Skeeter's secret? She is an unregistered Animagus.

5. Madam Hooch is instructor of what subject? Flying

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

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

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

9. Who is professor of Divination? Sybill Trelawney

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

Ravenclaw Ramblings

It's been pretty quiet around Ravenclaw Tower recently. I wonder if everyone is busy studying or just relaxing during our little break. We have an assignment to be learning about the women of Ravenclaw so I've done a wee bit of research. There definitely are some very interesting women to whom I aspire.

I have learned that a friend from last term may be returning to Hogwarts next term and I'm very excited. She was a Hufflepuff, but maybe the sorting hat will sort her into my house. She really is more of a Ravenclaw anyway and she would make a wonderful addition to the Common Room.

I might take a little holiday from school this weekend. It will be an opportunity to extend my education into new realms. I'm hoping to go to the Conscious Life Expo at the LAX Hilton. Listen to the titles of some of these free lectures: UFO Crash Retrievals, Animal Communications for Everyone, Remote Viewing & Espionage, Stress Goes When Body Flows, Healing Love Enlightenment, Rejuvenation & the Energetic Footbath, Invoking the Light, Stargate Egypt & the Secret of Soul Body, Playing in the Now, Creating with Pure Intent. Some of those titles really intrigue me. Now, we'll see whether my broom can make it that far! Does anyone want to join me?

My Potter Alter Ego

Surprisingly, Remus Lupin is my favorite Potter character!! Could it be that I recognize myself in him?

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

You scored as Remus Lupin You are a wise and caring wizard and a good, loyal friend to boot. However sometimes in an effort to be liked by others you can let things slide by, which ordinarily you would protest about. Remus Lupin 80% Albus Dumbledore 70% Hermione Granger 70% Ron Weasley 70% Harry Potter 65% Draco Malfoy 50% Ginny Weasley 50% Severus Snape 50% Sirius Black 45% Lord Voldemort 10%

It's a New Day

After a night in the infirmary, I'm feeling much rested. The head crushing spell was difficult to release, but Madame Pomfrey was able to do it. Amazing! I wonder if she can release the curse from my knitting?

Has anyone ever spent any time exploring Muggle TV programs? I've discovered an entire new world! There's Buffy the Vampire Killer, Firefly and Hex. I spent all evening watching Hex, my new favorite. It's so cold and dreary today that I might have to continue to explore this wonderful imaginary world and maybe attempt to work out the problem with my poor sock.

On a sad note I hear that a few people have left Hogwarts. They are going to be missed. But at least all my brilliant new friends are hanging around. More mischief is meant to be had! Oops, shouldn't have said that so loudly. Could mean more detention, right?

Quiddith Round 1 Answers

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 leprechaungold?
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 attacked 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? 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 protecton 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? 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

Monday, Monday

Why is it so hard to drag myself out of bed on Mondays? I feel like I didn't have a weekend and now it's back to classes. I had a very hard time today in DADA and Professor Von Humperdink wasn't too sympathetic. After a trip to the infirmary, I'm feeling much better, thank you.

I saw that Olive put a fun quiz in her diary so I thought I'd give it a try.

1. Butterbeer or pumpkin juice? Definitely butterbeer! I'm not much of a juice person, but I do love pumpkin in eatable form.

2. What House are you in? DUH! Ravenclaw. Is there any other House to aspire to?

3. If you were an animagus, what animal would you turn into. Again, DUH! A peacock, of course! I'd strut proudly showing off my beautiful irridescent colors.

4. Who do you empathize with, or resemble best out of Harry, Hermione or Ron? Hermione most definitely.

5. What position do you play at Quidditch? I'd like to say I was the nominated captain so I could play all 4 positions, but I play beater. Protecting my teammates is important to me.

6. Which teacher is your favorite? That depends on the day!

7. Favorite Quidditch team? Pride of Portree! Have you seen their deep purple robes with the gold star! My peacock feather earrings go so nicely eith the robes.

8. What was the best flavor of Bertie's Every Flavor Beans you have ever had? And the worst? The best is sizzling cinnamon and the worst is vomit.

9. What kind of wand do you have? Ebony with a Kelpie feather.

10. Have you ever been down Knockturn Alley? Unfortunately, yes. Last year when I was a first year some older Slytherins told me about a great place to get peacock feathers and I believed them.

Quidditch starts on Thursday! I'm so excited. I've been brushing up on everything I know about dragons. I'm also going to be looking for the Golden Snitch until my vision blurs!



LET'S GO RAVENCLAW!

I'm Back and Blue

I have returned to Hogwarts following the funeral for my cousin. It's always interesting when you have a gathering of wizards and Muggles, isn't it? I was happy to see my extended family, but I really wish we would quit having family reunions at funerals. Quidditch tournaments would be much more fun!

And, of course, I was disappointed to come back and find out we dropped another 5% in House points. I don't understand how this happens. We are Ravenclaws, after all! There is no one better or more deserving than us. My peacocks may never share their feathers with me again. Whatever shall I do?

Oh!! What is that I see on the end of my bed? Could it be sticky toffee pudding? I'm feeling better already.

I Hope, I Hope

I hope that while I'm away this weekend gathering with my family at the enchanted Moors of Neere to honor my cousin that everyone in Ravenclaw House will make a diary entry. We have the best house at Hogwarts and we need to show everyone just how grand we are.

Ferrets and Spotted Dick

This year is just not starting off well. First we fall into last place. Then my peacocks have no feathers to spare. And now all the Spotted Dick was eaten by ferrets in the kitchen! I was so looking forward to the Spotted Dick. I wonder if there is any Sticky Taffy Pudding left. I may have to sneak down to the kitchen later tonight after the meeting of the Ravenclaw Knitting Club and see if I can find some. Does anyone want to accompany me? (I know a secret passage. Shhhhhhhhhh)

Brrrr....It's Cold and Drafty

I don't know about the rest of you, but my dorm room is very cold and drafty. I mean, my peacock feather bed curtains can only do so much to keep out the drafts. So I decided it was time to send my little Angus McTavish (A.T. or "80" for short) to mummy for some more peacock feathers. Unfortunately my beloved peacocks had no feathers to spare so mummy sent me some fibers from the shop instead. They isn't exactly peacock colors, but will do. I have one sock finished and I'm working feverishly on the other. What do you think? Not bad for the challenge of Muggle knitting!

My Homework Assignment

It's been a hard week to concentrate on homework, but here are my answers:

1. RWIDZTAIR UANONETRMT Triwizard Tournament

2. NRNAGIHAU RAHNIOTL Hungarian Horntail

3. AEEMDY ONYOME Madeye Mooney (?)

4. ARTI KEESTRE Rita Sketer

5. ELSAUAEPBNKS Unspeakables

6. ULSFENFS Snuffles

7. NEPSVEIE Pensieve

8. RMUEIIPS Imperius

9. TREUEEBTBR Butterbeer

10. ROFELIBT Firebolt

I Will Be Gone a Few Days

Last night while shuffling through a huge stack of parchment (note to self ~ it is necessary to organize parchment in order to find the homework you misplaced) my little Angus McTavish arrived with a message from home. It seems that my cousin was killed yesterday when he was thrown from his broom while returning home. They don't know yet whether he had a heart attack or stroke which caused him to lose control of his broom or if his broom was hit by a spell of some sort and threw him or what happened. At any rate, I will be out of school for a couple days at the end of the week while my family gathers. Is someone willing to take notes for me?

Charms Good and Bad

Bad: Did you see all the canaries flying around yesterday? Poor first years. It happens every year. All the older students think it is fun to torment all the lost confused new students. Last year I was offered a Ton-Tongue Toffee right before DADA and, wanting to be part of the in crowd, I ate one. It was so good that I gobbled it all. Almost immediately my tongue started to get bigger and bigger and BIGGER until it was 10 times its normal size! About that time Professor Snape walked into the room and stopped dead in his tracks and glared at me. Here was this small frightened first year with a gigantic tongue! Fortunately he knew how to shrink my tongue but after that I learned to be very careful who I accepted gifts from.

Good: I went to Weasley's Wizard Wheezes yesterday and guess what I found? A daydream charm! You just have to try them out. You get a super realistic 30 minute daydream. I missed the Ravenclaw Knitting Club last night because I was mixing potions with Professor Black! In my daydream we mixed a potion that would make our knitting bags expand and shrink to any size needed. (And you had other thoughts, didn't you?)

I Love Hogwarts

I thought nothing could be better than my first year at Hogwarts but I was so wrong. This year rocks! All the new first years are grand. I was afraid it would be crowded in the Common Room, but instead it's cozy and everyone is knitting such fine things. Have you seen all the shades of blue and bronze or blue and silver?

And classes are actually fun this year. I sprint to Potions and DADA every day to be first into the classroom. I've been known to hang around after class asking for special help. It's amazing what I can achieve with a little pout! Oh, Professor Von Humperdink, am I holding my wand the right way? Should I twist my wrist this way or that? Don't tell, but yesterday I intentionally mixed a potion that would explode just so Professor Black would ask me to stay after class. Sigh.....

Have you heard that Gryffindor House has named a Head Girl? AND she's challenging our Head Girl. For some reason, she thinks that their House is better than ours! Can you imagine?

Time for Potions! What can I conjure up today?

I Know! I Know!

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


Me - Phoenix
Cassandra Hopkirk - Eagle
Fleur Crockford - Hydra
Patonga Pinkstone - Tiger

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

Elanor Cadogan
Gabriella Clearwater
Fleur Lovegoods
Esmerlda Beanswallow
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.

Me, of course! (Have you seen my bed curtains?)

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 (At least she admits it!)

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

Ebony - Me! (Isn't it pretty?)
Maple - Esmerelda Beanswallow
Holly - Cassandra Hopkirk
Tulip - Emma Wigworthy
Hawthorn - Elanor Cadogan

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

Serafina Starfire (Glad this wasn't me)

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?

Minerva Kwikspell

10. Which housemate has a Muggle cellular phone?

Victoria Black

I've Been Busy

I am ever so excited about my swap partner, a Hufflepuff. I spent much of the weekend looking at fibers and needles and patterns for her kit. I even discovered some wonderful Muggle stores I didn't know existed. I really must get out more often. I think I must have looked strange when I appeared in my robes, but I was so excited I forgot to change. I think I have all I need to start on the bag. I'm still undecided on yarn. There are so many choices! I've asked Mummy to get everyone to put their heads together and spin some yarn that doesn't look too much like a bumble bee. I'm having quite a bit of difficulty deciding on needles because I think my swap partner may have all the needles ever manufactured. Whatever to do! I guess I'll keep looking for something unique.

Oh, did I hear there will be a quiz this week? I haven't even opened a book yet. Besides shopping, I've been too busy developing a new use for peacock feathers! I will definitely have the most beautiful drapes for my bed in the dormitory.

I Must Be Excited!

I must be very excited about this term at Hogwarts! Last night I had a dream that the term started off with a blast! One of the girls in Ravenclaw told me about a Muggle show she had seen on television that was called something like Victoria's Secret. Anyway, in my dream our term opened with a spectacular like that complete with an appearance by famous Muggle rock stars! All the students at Hogwarts were in the audience screaming while the rock stars performed on a stage with lots of flashing lights. I'm sure the flashing lights were achieved by lots of wands being waved in the air! I woke up this morning feeling very excited (and covered in bits of feathers!)

I am going to sneak off to the store today and see if Mummy will help me pick out the perfect fibers for my swap partner. Hmmmmm...what colors do I need? (I'll never tell!) I so love surprises. My most difficult decision will be what kind of bag to make. I saw a Muggle with a wonderful felted bag. I asked Mummy how it was made and she wasn't sure. I'd love to try it out, but I'm not sure the term is long enough.

Let Me Introduce Myself

Now that most of the students have returned to Hogwarts I would like to introduce myself. My name is Fleur Lovegoods and I'm a second year student in the House of Ravenclaw. I'm sure we'll quickly become the best of friends. All of us Lovegoods hail from the village of Dergotop, which is about 10km south of the enchanted Moors of Neere. The Lovegoods family has lived on our ancestral estate for just about forever. I miss the misty mornings and my beautiful peacocks wandering around on the lush green lawns, but I've filled my room at Ravenclaw with their magical feathers. I love knitting with peacock colored fibers.

Let's see, what else? I guess it might be a good idea to tell you a little about what makes me, well, ME! Other than knitting, I enjoy a great many activities, both traditional female arts and some things that the boys might find most shocking. My mum taught me how to make amulets and fill them with all kinds of flora (she's such a green thumber -- thus my name Fleur) to protect us when we're out on the Moors. I'm not too keen on the kitchen stuff, but I suppose someone must do it! Perhaps we shall learn how to conjure up a tasty pudding here at Hogwarts! I also enjoy doing Tarot card readings and am trying to improve my psychic abilities as I practice. My favorite class last year was definitely Charms! A skill I am most proud of, which I'm sure will serve me well this year, is my knowledge and training in Muggle weaponry and defense. Papa was a good teacher, thus I'm a fair shot with the Muggle Ettrick bow. My favorite though is the Muggle shiny steel Pike. Nasty little thing sure to take the head off any troll that dares to enter our halls!

My claim to fame, for I suppose we must all have one, is to be the last in a long line of fiercely independent Lovegoods women. My mother attended Hogwarts, as did hers, and so on up the line. I will have to ask Madam Pince if any of the books in the library still tells the story of my great-grandmother Agatha Wigworthy and how she saved our ancestral estate from being taken over by the detested Umgubula Slashkilters. Nana was such an experienced weaver, spinner and knitter that she was able to knit a spell into the socks the evil looters cherished and they were helpless and had to feel far from our treasured Moors. One day perhaps I shall regale you with all the details -- tis truly an inspiring tale.

My family has always been involved with the magical manipulation of fibers. Our shop in Diagon Alley is well known for producing all the charmed knits you might ever desire as well as beautiful fibers for individual use. It's always fun to to into the shop and see all the looms busily kicking out a blur of yards and yards of fabrics, hear the steady humming of the spinning wheels spinning out magical fibers in flashing colors, and listen to the clicking of all the glistening needles knitting scarves, hats, gloves and sweaters in Hogwarts colors.

Because of all I was taught by Mum and Nana, I am most anxious to learn more about the art and magic of spell casting and weaving. Can you imagine the things we will learn in Magic in Thread Work and Weaving? Having the skill to save a rare unicorn by spinning a special suture, or being able to use our lovely orts to capture the wind and spare a poor village from devastation. Helping others is what magic is all about.

I'm looking forward to learning more about all the first years. Please tell us about yourselves! Let's meet in the Common Room soon for a cup of nettle tea or pumpkin juice and swap some knitting patterns.

Look What I Got!

Imagine my surprise today when I ran into Lovegoods Fibers to tell Mummy and Daddy that I'd received the name of my swap mate and they told me they were taking me shopping. We went to Ollivander's and look what I got!

Wood type: ebony Length: 11½ inches Core: Kelpie Hair get your own wand!

Yes, I got a new wand. Isn't it totally gorgeous! Don't ask what happened to my old one! Let's just say that last year was definitely a learning experience.

UPDATE: I borrowed Olive Bladvak's new book and read about my wand. This is what is says:

Ebony is a fine-quality, rather costly dark wood that is hard and durable. It also carries a beautiful black luster when polished, radiating a certain air of cold-shouldered class and expensive taste. This wand-holder is usually rather stubborn and shuns outsiders, remaining rather secretive of their core being. They also tend to be natural born leaders, commanding respect even if grudgingly. Ebony is the most powerful wood used in wands, and can give teh user what may seem to be unlimited power.

Kelpie hair comes from the mane of a Kelpie, a water demon commonly found in Britton and Ireland, who often takes the shape of a horse. The most famous Kelpie is referred to by Muggles as the Loch Ness Monster. Kelpie's are adaptable creatures and thus the wand is a good core for most types of magic, but especially water magic.

Wow! What a wand!

MY OWL ARRIVED!

I'm ever so excited!! My owl has arrived with the name of my swap mate. I was dozing off while thumbing through some ancient tomes when my lovely Angus MacTavish arrived in a explosion of feathers. Now it's off to visit my family at the store and see what kind of magical goodies I can find for my swap mate.

Anxiously Awaiting Start of Term

Wow, the term hasn't even started and it's getting really crowded in Ravenclaw House. The noise coming from the owlery is ear shattering. There are so many first years running around. I'm not sure, but I think a few have gotten lost in the 142 staircases in Hogwarts. I'm afraid we're going to have more roommates than ever before. Our 4 poster beds are going to have to shrink if this keeps up! I haven't gotten to know any of the first years yet, but once we're all in and settled I hope I will. Some seem rather creative. I'm sure I can interest them in a trip or two on weekends to my family's shop in Diagon Alley where we've got some of the most marvelous magical fibers.

Our prefect thought it would be an opportunity to get to know each other by taking down the holiday decorations in the Common Room. It was also a chance for first years to try out their wands. There were Christmas balls crashing into walls, chairs, tables. It almost became a game of Quidditch and I think all 700 ways to commit a Quidditch foul were committed! In the end, the Common Room is now ready for the arrival of more students and the start of a new term.

My Patronus

Through hard work and determination, I have discovered my Patronus. It's...................
the Phoenix!! The phoenix is a creature that symbolizes prophetic wisdom, death, and rebirth. This Majestic patronus soars onto the field blanketing your foes in fire and causing devastation to all that oppose it. You should be honored to receive this magical creature as your patronus!

New Course Offering

Have you looked at the new course offering?? It's right up my Diagon Alley! "Magic in Thread Work and Weaving" is definitely going to be the best part of my day and I know I will excel. It's the magic of weaving and other thread work involving muggle spinning and basic thread care, learning to weave spells into threads and fabrics, learning to use thread to manipulate other magic, (i.e., spinning a healing spell into bandages or a warming spell into a cloak, capture tying threads to make objects move, capture wind). How perfect!!

Another Year at Hogwarts

I'm so excited for the start of another year at Hogwarts. It will be awesome to be back with my friends at Ravenclaw. The House Cup will be ours this year! I can't wait to start my Divination and Charms classes! Now, it's off to Diagon Alley to pick up the supplies on my list:

The Standard Book of Spells -- check

Unfogging the Future, The Dream Oracle -- check

Crystal ball -- check

Tea leaves -- check

Tarot cards -- check

It's time to pack my bags....