Gryphon's Grotto

HSKS swap package

2012-01-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

RAOK

2011-08-22T14:00:00.001-07:00

Here is my awesome RAOK from Headmistress Mafalda de Mimsy Porpington.

2011-08-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

HLBOE - Colin Creevey Challenge #2 (6th term)

2011-07-31T11:13:00.001-07:00

Herbology

2011-07-16T17:04:00.001-07:00

For my Herbology assignment this term, I have chose to do a plant called tall bugbane - Cimicifuga elata.

This plant is often between four to six feet tall. Unlike other rare plants, which have large amounts in small areas, the tall bugbane has few plants spread over very large areas. The flowers this plant produces are made beautiful not by petals, but by clusters of stamens.

This plant makes an ideal natural home-bug repellent. When aggravated by insects landing on it, it releases a puff of "pollen" that kills insects and other bugs. When crushed, the plant's pulp can be used as an insect repellent. The "pollen," when properly gathered, can be used in sneezing potions.

Colin Creevy Challenge 1

2011-07-16T09:38:00.001-07:00

Here are my pictures:

My constant.

The five items: Lupin's travelling case, Snape's potions book, Luna's tennis shoes, a nargle, and one of Tonk's changing faces.

Here she is a little happy boy,

Turned into a ghost. :)

Super Fantabulous Kit from Sylvo

2010-12-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

Here is the kit that was sent to me from Sylvo. It included (from left to right clockwise): knit picks Wool of the Andes for the snake and mouse pattern, Gingerbread cookie mix, knit picks cable needles, knit picks darning needles, penguin stitch markers, Horcrux stitch markers, a fabulous book!, two sets of DPNs, Mexican chocolate disks, scouting stamps, and the most amazing felted project bag ... ever!
This is my dog, Rose. She liked the smell of the chocolate as I unwrapped it. (See her tongue!)
The felted Hallows and Horcruxes bag. The goodies just kept coming out! All wrapped in house colors. The stitch markers and needles, and cable needles were all tucked inside.
This is a close up of the stitch markers. She said this was the first time she'd ever made stitch markers. They are fabulous! I got several sizes, too! Aren't the penguin's cute? She made the horcruxes out of fimo clay!

Thanks again, Sylvo! I LOVE everything about this kit and I can't wait to try out everything! I need to find a project for those cable needles now!

Almost the End

2010-11-20T16:03:00.001-08:00

Well, it's almost the end of another swap. I have had so much fun putting together Mystry Moonbleu's kit. With a few _____ and a pack of _____, and the _______ and _______ that I am sending, I think she is going to love it.

Quiz

2010-11-09T06:16:00.001-08:00

To which prison was Gellert Grindelwald sent after he was defeated by Dumbledore in 1945? Nurmengard
Who is the first casualty in The Deathly Hallows? Charity Burbage
What does Draco Malfoy name his son? Scorpius
Before Harry gains control of it, who is the master of the Elder Wand? Draco Malfoy
Severus Snape’s Patronus takes the same form as which other character’s? Lily Potter's
Where do Ron, Hermione and Harry apparate when Death Eaters invade Bill and Fleur’s wedding? Tottenham Court Road
Who does Harry send to search for Mundungus Fletcher and the missing locket? Kreacher
Who destroys Salazar Slytherin’s locket? Ron
What does Hermione use to destroy Helga Hufflepuff’s cup? A basilisk fang
Following the death of Lord Voldemort, who is named temporary Minister of Magic? Kingsley Shacklebolt

Scavenger Hunt

2010-10-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

Here are all the horcruxes in one photo. Also, i have a picture of each of them separately.

Marvolo Gaunt's Ring.

Harry Potter (or more accurately, the bit of Voldemort's soul that latched onto Harry)

Helga Hufflepuff's Cup

Voldemort's Snake Nagini

Salazar Slytherin's Locket

Rowena Ravenclaw's Diadem

Tom Riddle's Diary

2010-10-08T20:54:00.000-07:00

This is the awesome RAOK I got from Celestina Pettigrew. It was such an unexpected surprise. For some reason we didn't get a pic of the gator case's nose. But all of the supplies in the kit I have needed. Thanks Celestina.

2010-10-08T18:52:00.000-07:00

Why does Harry accuse Remus Lupin of being a coward? For wanting to leave Tonks when she is pregnant
Who is R.A.B.? Regulus Arcturus Black
According to legend, what would a person become if he could assemble the Deathly Hallows? Master of Death
What is Ariana Dumbledore rumored to be? A squib
What is written on Harry’s parents’ gravestone? "The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death"
Why does Krum want to fight Xenophilius Lovegood? For wearing the sign of the Deathly Hallows, which Krum calls "Grindelwald's sign"
Why does Voldemort seek the Elder Wand? To have a wand that beats Harry's
Where did Dumbledore’s family live? Godric's Hollow
Whose eye does Harry see in his magic mirror shard? Aberforth Dumbledore
What item does Harry steal from Gringotts? Hufflepuff's Cup (Voldemort's Horcrux)
Where does Rita Skeeter get her information about Dumbledore? Bathilda Bagshot
What is inside the Snitch that Dumbledore leaves Harry? Gaunt's Ring (the Resurrection Stone)
Why does Dumbledore leave Ron a Deluminator? Because he knew he would leave and come back and would need guidance
Why has Hermione not read The Tales of Beedle the Bard? She is a Muggle-born and did not grow up with those fairy tales
What is Dumbledore’s greatest regret? Helping Gellert Grindelwald
Whose mail did Snape open? Petunia Evans'
What form does Snape’s Patronus take? A doe
Why can the Sword of Gryffindor destroy Horcruxes? Because it retained the Basilisk's venom after Harry stabbed it
What name is given to wizards who help Mudbloods? Blood Traitors
How do Harry and his friends enter the Ministry of Magic? Through toilets
Who made Harry’s wand? Ollivander

Essay Question
Choose one of the following questions and post your answer to your blog.

How does Harry change over the course of the novel? Is The Deathly Hallows a true coming-of-age story?
In what ways do the dead speak to the living in this book?
In what way do Ron and Hermione act as foils for Harry, drawing out his qualities and characteristics more clearly?

Week 3 Blogging Assignment

2010-09-28T06:16:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Pie
Owl Droppings
Leaf Fall
Weasley 's Wizard Weases
Quaffle Quidditch
Hallow Deathly
Mad Hatter (not really sure why that, but oh well. Was in a small Alice in Wonderland play last year at the dance recital and my friend was the Mad Hatter.)
Dragon Egg
Crystal City (Again, not sure why this. It is in a book series I read The Tales of Alvin Maker)
Trees Forest
Hermione Brainiac
Hogwarts Hogwarts, Hogwarts, Hoggy Warty Hogwarts, teach us something please!
Burrow Weasleys
Dobby The House Elf
Horcrux Nagini
Ministry of Magic
Magic in the Making (Movie magic perhaps?)
Sirius Black
Apple Juice (Served at breakfast no doubt)
Juice Squeezer (Why squeezer I do not know)
Candle Lighter
Ghost Light (In the movie Cars, there is a blue orb of light called the Ghost Light)
Snake Fangs
Wand Elder
Invisibility Cloak
Tent Poles
Spell Book
Umbridge Professor Umbridge (mean)
Dursely Dudley
Prophet Daily

Week 2

2010-09-23T06:43:00.000-07:00

What 5 things would you not leave home without if you were going into hiding, camping, or running away and WHY.

Camping -

1) Food - it's one of the most important things to have.

2) Water - it's the most important thing to have to keep you alive.

3) Pocket knife - it can be tied to a stick for defense against wild animals, used to cleans hunted animals for food, and other basic camping necessities.

4) Extra clothing - to change into when other clothing is ruined.

5) First Aid Kit - for basic and more advanced injuries gathered when camping.

Week 1 of HSKS 12

2010-09-16T10:54:00.000-07:00

Someone with the same craft as you (either those listed above or another one).

Fleur Sweeting knits

Someone who was born in the same month as you.

Schmutzerella Oglethorpe was born in November, like me.

Someone from a different country.

Lizzie Wychwood I know lives in the UK, but I don't know if he's from there.

A new HSKS Family member.

Angelina Frysia is new this year.

Someone who has been in 3 or more HSKS swaps.

Hermione Bagnold has been here since the beginning I think. If not, I know she's been in at least three.

Someone who has a bigger stash than you! (And if your stash is the biggest, proudly say so!

Clara Clovehoof has more than I do. Actually, I think everyone does, as I only have one stashed.

Someone who both knits and crochets.

Ambyr Phoenixfyre knits and crochets.

Someone who has the same favorite color as you.

Caradoc Brocklehurst. Blue rocks!

Someone who has the same favorite season/holiday as you.

Dunno. My favorite season is autumn, at least when I am near trees that change color.

Someone who has the same favorite fiber as you.

I don't have a favorite fiber. I like them all.

My Kit Has Arrived

2010-08-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

My kit from Emma Gorodok (Selana) is here.

It came when I was watering the garden. Mom made me finish before I was allowed to open it. I was so excited to see what Emma had sent me.

This is what I found when I opened the box. Several little packages wrapped up with adorable frogs on them. The wrapping alone sent me ooh-ing and aah-ing.

The hand-made item she sent me was a Snake Scarf. It is extremely soft, and seems to be mixed with some Fun-Fur. My Cocker Spaniel Rose couldn't keep her nose away from it. As a matter-of-fact, she couldn't keep her nose out of the kit in general.

Another item was a little chest that had some stitch markers, a frog with a note holder on his back, and a little clay frog (he's in the back there). I can't wait to put something like my dance schedule or a homework reminder in the note holder.

All in all, here is my pond themed critter kit. Some delicious frog gummy candies (I think those were what Rose was after), the chest of little frogs, a pattern and yarn for a Red-Eyed Tree Frog (my favorite frog), the Snake Scarf, some Pebble candles, two leopard pencils, and a Green Hair Monster. Thank you soooooo much Selana. The frogs were perfect.

Sending Week

2010-08-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

Well, it's sending week at summer camp. I just need a few finishing touches on Winifred's kit before it goes with Myst to get delivered. I need to finish the ______________ before I send the kit. Maybe pick up a few _______. But it is going out soon.

I made Wingo!

2010-07-20T10:19:00.001-07:00

I did it! I made a Wingo!

W5 - Has been in HSKS before - Siobhan Mooney
I5 - Has been on a multi-day camping or backpacking trip - Hermione Bagnold (The Sand Dunes)
N5 - Plays a musical instrument - Ambyr Phoenixfyre (flute and percussion)
G5 - Has the same birth month - Kitkatherine [don't know HP name] (November)
O5 - Brought a pet to summer camp - Celestina Pettigrew (Owl)

Wingo

2010-07-20T09:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's my info.

I have been on several multi-day backpacking and camping trips.
I play the trumpet
I have played Quidditch
I speak ASL
I have been to a castle (Craigdarroch Castle)
I was born in November
I own all the HP movies (and know half the lines, I'm proud to say)
I have 0 items in my Ravelry queue
I like Milky Ways and jelly bellies
I live in America
I saw all the HP films in the theatres
I have a pin collection
I have been on a train from Baltimore to Philidelphia
I have 3 siblings
I was bugler at a Cub Scout summer camp, if that counts as working there
I brought my dragon Glurp
My Patronus is a frog. I have always loved them, and I always will

Summer Camp Kickoff

2010-07-10T16:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm off to summer camp, both for Hogwarts and Scouts. For my spoiler, I have picked these three kits: a Nature kit, a Critter kit, and a Games kit. Here are my reasons for picking those.

Nature kit: I have always loved the outdoors. I love going on nature walks and sitting in the woods behind my house. I have 3 foot pit I dug back there, along with a tree I have put steps into for climbing purposes. Nature is just one thing I always have loved and always will.

Critter kit: The critters I find outdoors are so much fun. My favorites are birds, chipmunks, and most of all . . . frogs. This pattern is one of my favorites. I also like reading, so this one is also one of my favorites.

Games kit: For the games, I like card games mostly. But not like poker or go fish. I play Magic the Gathering and the HP trading card game. But I would like a portable board game, like for chess, as it is one of my favorite board games.

For other things about me, here are a few items:

Knit or crochet or both?

I both knit and crochet.

Favorite fibers/least favorite fibers

I don't have a particular favorite or least, but I don't like scratchy yarns.

Favorite colors/least favorite colors

I like royal and ocean blues and golden yellow, or for a combo, lime green and yellow go well together.

Yarn weight preferences

Not fingering. I like anything else, though I have not tried sport, so that would be new

Favorite projects

I like shrinky-dinks and clay modeling. I especially like doing dragons, like Glurp.

Favorite gadgets

I don't have gadgets except for ones I use while camping, like knives, a compass, etc.

Salty or Sweet or...?

Sweet or sour! I like Jelly Bellies, especially the black licorice ones, chocolate, caramels, Warheads, and whoppers. I don't like the actual black licorice. I'm odd that way. No twizzlers or regular licorice. And no, repeat no, chocolate and peanuts/peanut butter. Blech!

Tea or Coffee or...?

Hot chocolate!

Allergies

Cats, cigarette smoke, and food dye/coloring (for my brother, but not me, especially in the way of the sweets/sours, as I don't think those will be shared.)

Other things you like, i.e., buttons, pens, fabric, stitchmarkers, etc.

I like odd little buttons, and I collect pins

Currently Craving

Chocolate and sour candies. Oh, and adventure

Measurements (feet for socks, wrists, head circumference)

Socks - tip of toe to back of heel - 11" Arch - 10 1/2" Ankle - 9" Widest part of foot - 10" Wrists - 7" Head Circumference - 23"

Whatever else you'd like to share!

I have two dogs, both of which like treats. I enjoy baking to the upteenth degree.

Muggle studies homework

2010-06-12T19:07:00.001-07:00

Part 1: Short Answer

1. Explain why Muggles need electricty.

Because they are unable to use magic. Almost all Muggle children need their computers and other electronic devices.

2. What are the most common ways Muggles communicate when they are not together in the same place?

Video chat, cell phones, and e-mail

3. How do Muggles cope with broken items?

The kids throw a fit, and the adults either fix it themselves, try to make someone else fix it, or throw it away.

4. Describe a popular Muggle sport.

Football - a bunch of big smelly Muggles that tackle each other as they try to move an oblong ball toward the end of a large field for points.

5. Name something you'd like to try doing without magic, and how you would accomplish it.

Washing a dog - I would have a friend hold the dog in a bucket, pour water on it, rub some soap ino its fur, and then rinse it out and repeat until the dog is clean.

Part 2: Identify these common Muggle items.

1. A small squared-off rod held in the hand with many soft buttons on one side with numbers and words written on them.

A remote control

2. A metal box with a long, handled hose, which counts several sets of numbers when you compress the handle.

A gas pump

3. A heavy rod with a single button that emits light when pushed.

A flashlight

4. A small, thin, glossy rectangle that has pictures on one side and emits a variety of noises, often attached to Muggles' ears with a thin cord.

An Ipod

5. A large cabinet with one glass side, displaying a variety of neatly organized items, which occasionally spits one out when the correct code is entered.

A vending machine

Part 3: Find a picture of the following Muggles and describe why they are famous.

1. Spike Jonze - famous director

2. Oprah Winfrey - talk show host

3. Bono - famous singer and musician and lead singer of Irish rock band U2

4. Elizabeth II - Queen of England

5. J.K. Rowling - only Muggle to know about wizards and not be married to one. Documentar of Harry Potter's life.

Surprise mail by owl

2010-06-05T05:33:00.000-07:00

Sometime last week, I got a mysterious package in the mail. It was my prize from Hermione for the 100% blogging. I found multiple wrappings inside the brown paper. The picture shows our little puppy thinking it might be for her.

As soon as all the wrapping was off, I opened the little box and received a HUGE surprise.

Hermione had sent me a calligraphy pen, in Ravenclaw colors of course. Thank you Hermione!

And now, the kit I received from Fleur Sweeting.

A first glance reveals a note, yarn, a box, and a little bag.

Here is all of the items in the box. The kit was themed after Sirius Black. It included a compass to make sure I didn't get lost, Puppy chow and snacks disguised as dog treats, the yarn and needles for a Cerus Scarf, a small notebook, a bag which I believe is to hold my yarn on a chair, my own copy of Charmed Knits, and a mini sock kit. Also other items I will go into detail with.

This hat she knit is a reversible skull cap. She spent 3 hours watching Prisoner of Azkaban in freeze frame so she could study Sirius' tattoos.

This little guy was a thank you from Ronnica and Fleur for playing Beater for them. Their names are Gilderoy (the sleeping/unconscious one that reminds me of Professor Lockhart after his memory charm backfired) and Godric (the brave, fierce one that reminds me of Godric Gryffindor).

And finally, stitch markers with little birdies on them. Fleur sent them because a wizard always needs to have a way to communicate and owls are not always handy.

These were my surprises from owls. One from Italy, and on from Las Vegas. Thank you Hermione and Fleur!

Arithmancy Homework

2010-05-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I got my homework done, and not at the last minute like usual. My three answers are:

Puzzle #1 - Dobby

Puzzle #2 - Harry Potter

Puzzle #3 - Hog's Head

2010-05-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

PART 1

Find one person for each of these questions. No repeats!

Who is new to HSKS this Term? dogwithbooks (don't know HSKS name)
Who has played Quidditch for their House this Term? Ronnica (Rowena Bladvak)
Who is working on the same project (WIP) as you?
Who has more items in their Queue than you? misslucy (Fleur Sweeting)
Who has donated to SPEW this Term? Dragonsinger (Rowan Dragonsinger)
Who has participated in Dueling Club this Term? ajkane (Clara Clovenhoof)
Who lives within 100 miles of you? bartlebean (Ambyr Phoenixfyre)
Who is from a different country than you? smileynetta (Hermione Bagnold)

PART 2

Comment on at least one blog from each of the other houses. List their names here and something you learned about them from their blog post.

Lizzie Wychwood from Gryffindor - Even when she is on holiday, she still finds time to knit.

Storm Ivory from Hufflepuff - From what I read, she is writing a novel.

Minerva Lovegood of Slytherin - She didn't have much said, but she is raising chicks.

Go Ravenclaw!

2010-05-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

Good luck at the match Ravenclaws! I hope I will not be tardy.

RAVENCLAWS RULE THE PITCH!!!!!

Camping

2010-05-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Well, it's good bye Hogwarts for the weekend. My Dad is taking me and my two brothers backpacking. We currently are getting all the gear split up. We will be buying food on the way up, so hopefully we will have enough room for it in our packs. I will see you all when we get back. Maybe I can even convince Mom to let me borrow her old camera so I can have a few pictures of the trip to show.

And Ravenclaws, I am praying that I will be back in time for the match. If I am late, I hope Amethyst/Loomatic will not mind filling in for me.

Potions Homework - Part 3

2010-05-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

My brother and I made a little orange and chocolate smoothie that was EXTREMELY GOOD!! You take a quarter cup orange juice concentrate, a fudge Oreo, half a waffle cone (it's hiding behind the blender), a full squirt of Ghiradelli chocolate (or your favorite liquid chocolate), a quarter cup of heavy cream, some orange zest, and a half an orange. Then, you throw it all in the blender, get it all mixed and crushed, then poor into your favorite cup.

And Voila! Choco-orange smoothie.

Potions Homework - Part 2

2010-05-08T07:23:00.000-07:00

1. Sneezewort, scurvy grass, and lovage are used to make what?

B:Confusing Draught

2. Porcupine quills are to be added when to a Boil Cure Potion?

D: After it is removed from the fire

3. What potion, if brewed correctly, should change color numerous times throughout brewing including deep purple, lilac, and finishing clear?

A: The Draught of Living Death

4. This ingredient in the Draught of Peace, would likely bring you permanent peace since it is poisonous, what is it?

D: Hellebore

5. Chopped daisy roots, skinned shrivel-fig, sliced caterpillar, one rat spleen, dash of leech juice are all ingredients to what?

C: Shrinking Solution

Each correct answer is worth 10 points each

Total possible points for this section is 50 points

Potions Homework - Part 1

2010-05-05T14:54:00.001-07:00

Bloodblossom - I honestly don't know why they call it that, because the blossoms are white or cream. Can be used as a blood thinner in potions. Maybe Fred and George could experiment with it for Nosebleed Nougats.

Strawberry Blossom - Although not my favorite jam, I love eating a ripe and juicy strawberry. I would use these in a Euphoria potion probably. Just the smell makes me think "summer."

Moonlace - Although this particular specimen is rather dry and tinted with green, it is normally white and has a little glow around it. Planting must be done in the light of the moon though. In its healthy state, it has a very soft texture. But when dried, it is EXTREMELY rough. I would use a healthy specimen for lotions, but I might prank someone by giving them a sample that was made with a dried bit of moonlace.

Purple Pixie Bells - A light purple bloom often used bye pixie's as a drinking cup. They can be used by wizards/witches to trap pixies by simply casting an engorgement charm on the flower, filling it with honey, and waiting for the pixie(s) in the area to start gorging themselves. After that, the wizard/witch merely has to shrink the bloom, thereby shrinking the pixie(s) and then carry the cup away and deposit it somewhere else.

African violets - Very deep purple flowers that are very soft to the touch. Though infamous for its reputation of being very difficult to care for, it is the only flower my mom has ever been able to keep alive for an extended period of time. Because it is so soft and lovely looking, I would probably use the flowers in either a skin softener or love potion.

Mad Lib Final Edition

2010-04-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

Harry Potter And The Curse of Dudley

Harry Potter, the boy wonder, the talker of the wizarding world; sat alone in his tiny bedroom scratching his tongue and cleaning the peanut butter out of Hedwig's cage. This summer wasn't nearly as boring as his previous summers had been.

Over the summer, his cousin Dudley had grown quite frightened of him. Harry secretly kept cursing him, even though under age use of magic was strictly forbidden outside of Hogsun-burned's school of Choo-choo traincraft and Excuses.

It seemed the wizarding world turned a blind nose hair when it came to Harry, and he never got in trouble for his... transgressions.

One particularly memorable curse on Dudley happened on the 14th of June. It was so hot, you could annoy a/an name on the sidewalk.

Dudley sat on his enormous arm in front of the telly, spooning Ziploc baggie-ful after Ziploc baggie-ful of lasagna down his throat. Harry thought he looked rather houndish, with his piggy little eyes and fat body.

Harry got an evil little grin on his toenail and raised his wand behind Dudley's head. "Absum" he shouted; which translated to English means "Turn this boy's head into a Pinova apple and make him dance around like a Cocker spaniel with Epilepsy!"

And that's just what Dudley did! He slapped off the couch, screamed "Woop-de-doo!" to the top of his lungs, and began working on the floor, while turning in circles and flapping his teeth.

Harry was laughing so hard, he almost peed his socks. He was still laughing, and Dudley was still flapping, when Uncle Vernon came thundering down the stairs. He had gone a nice shade of purple. He looked at Harry, shaking in anger, then looked at Dudley, horrified. "EVERYONE, FOR NEXT WEEK, WILL THINK YOU ARE AWESOME!" he screamed, then calmly turned and walked away.

Harry and Dudley looked at each other in abject confusion. Harry shrugged his shoulders in a "beats me" gesture, and the two cousins sat on the sofa, temporarily forgetting their animosity toward one another.

Dudley lifted the half empty Ziploc baggie of lasagna and offered it to Harry.

"Don't mind if I do!" said the bespectacled young man, grabbing a spoon and preparing to dine.

Dudley's teeth gave one mighty final flap, and the boys had a most enjoyable evening, indeed.

Mad Lib

2010-04-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

1. a verb - Annoy
2. a number - 14
3. a body part - Nose Hair
4. an abstract noun - I didn't know what to put
5. a noun - Choo-Choo Train
6. a skin condition - Sun-burned
8. type of person/stereotype - Talker
9. a substance - Peanut Butter
10. a fortune cookie phrase in all capital letters - EVERYONE, FOR THE NEXT WEEK, WILL THINK YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!!
11. article of clothing - Socks
12. verb ending in "-ed" - Slapped
13. neurological disorder - Epilepsy?
14. an animal - Cocker Spaniel
15. a fruit - Pinova apple
16. a latin (sounding) phrase in all capital letters - ABSUM!
17. a body part - Toenail
19. a food - Lasagna
20. a body part in plural - Teeth
21. a verb ending in "-ing" - Working
22. a nonsensical word in all capital letters - Woop-de-doo?

23. a container - Ziploc baggie
24. a body part - Arm
25. a noun - Name

Care of Magical Creatures Homework

2010-04-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

I did the homework, except I can't seem to move the picture. So I'll start by describing what I picked to use in Care of Magical Creatures.

1. Raw meat to attract Thestrals.
2. Wood lice (in the glass bowl) to appease Bowtruckles.
3. A neck band to protect against vampire bats.
4. Binoculars to study creatures from afar that I wouldn't want to study up close.
5. A tank to study freshly caught Grindylows and Plimpies.

A house elf as wrinkly skin and has very large tennis ball eyes. It has a large nose, but like humans, they differ from elf to elf. It normally wears something like a household item, like Dobby's pillow case and Winky's tea towel.

Kreacher is the house elf of the Black Family.

Hermione is making hats for the house elfs.

You free a house elf by giving it clothes.

S.P.E.W. stands for The Society of the Promotion of Elfish Welfare

Transfiguration Homework

2010-04-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

My identification mark. The frog I received in my swap package.

Hagrid's Rock Cakes

"Toothuth Breakuth"

Golden Snitch
"Winggrowthus"

Remembrall
"Forgetus Not"

Bowtruckle
"Twiggy Animatus"

Decoy Detonator

"Dynamite Shrinkydink"

Nose Biting Tea Cup
"Tooth Growthus Maxiumus"

Spectrespecs
"Oh your head must really hurt, let me see all those rackspurts."

Time Turner
"Clockus Rewind Us"
It is late. I am going to bed. I will fill in the blanks tomorrow with more specifics. But for now, my homework is done.

Hogwarts Forever

2010-03-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

Yahoo! The new term has started and I am ready to go! In addition to spoiling Quietus Severus this year, I am also trying out for Ravenclaw Beater. Being rather good with Harry Potter trivia, I hope to make my house proud. My trunk is packed and I am set for another term.

For my kit that I am hoping to receive, I picked Sirius Black, Rubeus Hagrid, and Luna Lovegood as the characters to base it on. Here are my reasons for picking these particular characters:

Sirius Black - He was a loyal man, who watched over Harry as best as he could. He could also turn into a dog, an ability which I find really cool.

Rubeus Hagrid - He is a kind guy who is really great with all sorts of odd creatures. I like animals, especially my family's dogs. However, his cooking skills leave a bit to be desired.

Luna Lovegood - I picked Luna because she is an oddball. She is a sweet girl who is as loyal as any Hufflepuff, as brave as any Gryffindor, and as smart and logical as the best Ravenclaws around. Plus, she has funny names for all sorts of odd creatures, like Crumple-Horned Snorkacks.

New Term

2010-03-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is time for another term in HSKS. I am so looking forward to it. I can't wait to begin the package and fit it to my spoilee's characters.

House Cup

2010-02-18T14:46:00.000-08:00

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!!!! The Headmistress just declared a tie between the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw houses for the House Cup!! I am so glad I was able to help my house (Ravenclaw) win this honor.

Absolutely Puzzled About the Clues From Winnie

2009-12-23T20:58:00.000-08:00

I don't know where the Headmistress has been, but her clues are extremely confusing. All I can come up with is somewhere in Great Britain, probably around London. All the vague clues are hurting my head. With luck, someone will unearth the truth as to where our beloved headmistress has been and who took the trophy and where they hid it.

Miss Winnie's Latest Location

2009-12-19T19:21:00.000-08:00

From where Professor Wartbobble's latest letter, I am going to guess that she is in Bethlehem. Other than that, I don't have mush of a guess.

Miss Winnie's Pilfered Prize

2009-12-16T08:01:00.001-08:00

After consulting my teammates as to what was in the package Headmistress Winifred sent, I have come up with the following answer for the code she sent along with the package.

Stolen Quidditch World Cup Trophy

Here's hoping I'm right! It makes sense. But two questions remain: Who stole the cup, and why did they do it?

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

2009-12-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

OMG!!!! OMG!!!! I made it to the newspaper! After doing a little showcase for some of the schools around town, someone put a picture in the newspaper. And of all the pictures taken, it was one of the Battle Scene with the sword fight between the Nutcracker Prince and the Rat King (me). Granted my back is to the camera, but I am in the newspaper!

Package Arrival!

2009-11-24T15:10:00.000-08:00

My owl arrived today! I was in the middle of playing my trumpet when my little sister yelled that an owl was coming to our house at a great pace. I finished my song, and ran downstairs. Seeing a large box, I asked mom if I had to finish playing my instrument before I could open the package. After she said yes, I finished playing with gusto. Then, when the box was finally opened, Mom said to lay everything out from what looked like a very packed, large box. I did a kind of happy dance upon seeing what the box's contents were.

I got 3 skeins of Knit Picks yarn (Sky, Navy, and Bare), a Knitbook, with basics and beyond, a set of size 10 3/4 Brittany DPNs, size 13 Crystal Palace Yarn Bamboo circulars, stitch markers, and a pattern for a Shaded Shepherd's Sack. Also in the package were these knitted items.

To accompany the above items, Penelope sent me this little guy. He is a little glass frog to help inspire me with my stories.

We got a picture of all the stuff Penelope of Flitwick sent me. I absolutely love the kit.

The Muggle Sport of Soccer

2009-11-23T07:35:00.001-08:00

Last night, my dad took us to the MLS cup. Major League Soccer is like Quidditch, except played on the ground and only with one ball. It took the teams FOREVER to make a goal. I guess that means they are pretty good. We left before the game ended because it went into overtime and we wanted to beat the crowd. When we left, the score was Los Angeles Galaxy : 1, Real Salt Lake : 1.

The game was not overly high action, but we had fun. They blew confetti into the air several times, and my brother and I would search overhead for the little sparklies to see if we could catch them. I caught one blue one, and the rest I found on the ground. I ended up with 3 blue pieces of confetti, 1 silver, and one green. It was a lot of fun and I am glad my dad was able to get the tickets.

What I am thankful for

2009-11-20T11:14:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for many things. My home, my pets, the blessings that we are provided with, plus lots of others. I will see if I can laundry list as many as I can minus the ones above.

Family

Friends

Food (and LOTS of it, especially turkey)

Being able to be on Ravelry

Dance

That is what I can come up with for now, but there are so many other things that I can't even begin to imagine.

My Adventure with the Broomstick

2009-11-16T07:42:00.000-08:00

Well, the little broomstick that landed in my mailbox several days ago has had quite an adventure. All he wanted to do was go to the waterfront. The first stop we make was here. He was flying so fast I couldn't focus on the background. But if I had been able to get the desired focus, you would see many ships on the opposite shore.

Right next to our previous photo spot, he wanted to get a picture with the tour boat you can see in the background. Again, I couldn't get him to sit still long enough to focus on the boat.

Then, in his excitement, he flew so fast he ran into this. He was slightly stunned from his collision, so I took the opportunity to grab him by the handle so Mom could get a good photograph of him.

After a long day of sightseeing, the little broomstick decided to land and grab a drink and read a book in front of the fire. It was surprising that his drink should give a clue as to where he happened to land.

Hope you have fun guessing where the little broom happened to land and where we went sightseeing.

The great mystery of Winnie Wartbobble

2009-11-06T10:58:00.000-08:00

Hmmm, I just can't figure out where Miss Wartbobble is. Scans Miss Wartbobble's letter for the upteenth time. She just has so many places to be. Ghosts, vampire bats, what's next, mummies? I hope I can un-ravel this mystery before we get the next letter.

DONE!

2009-10-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

Nearing the end.

The end!

Yeah!

Shuntbumping experiences

2009-10-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well, the deadline is out, but I'm still going to finish my hat. It is actually almost done. If it weren't for the fact that I'm extremely slow and I am NOT a sleep knitter, I would say I had done it all my own. I think G'Whymzy has been fast at work at night. Thank heavens we have a knitting dragon in the house. It should be done in a bit.

Where in the World is Winnie

2009-10-23T14:35:00.001-07:00

Well, Winnie has certainly been busy. What with visiting a castle on one side of the world and getting maple syrup on the other. Ambyr and I did a bit of research and have come to a decision. She will be visiting Dunedin, New Zealand for that "organizing" breath of spring air. Her second stop for Siobhan's maple syrup will be at the Sugar Shack in St.-Donat, Quebec, which is situatedon the lakes Archambault and Ouareau in the Laurentian mountains. Good luck with the syrup Professor! Don't get any on your broomtail, as that could be disastrous for direction.

Where is Miss Wartbobble?

2009-10-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Well, according to her picture, she is at the Ministry of Magic in London, somewhere I have never been, as I live in America. I must agree with Emma that she is in St. Mungo's or was there. Do hope you're okay Professor.

Spoilee/spoiler info arrived

2009-10-11T15:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it's another season for swapping and my captain's owl came in today with a note for me. It was my spoilee/spoiler information! I will be spoiling the wonderful Selena Starfire and be spoiled by Penelope of Flitwick. I can't wait to get swapping and play some Quidditch.

Quidditch teams are up and I made it to the Pride of Portree!

2009-10-07T11:24:00.001-07:00

Woot! I made it to the Pride of Portree. It's time to make a robe of maroon and yellow, with a hint of sparkles on the star ... or maybe I could make it glow. Either way, I will have to work on my charms. I know we are going to have a great season because we have Wisteria and Hermione leading us. Certain victory!!

Time for more HSKS fun!

2009-10-05T11:34:00.001-07:00

Woohoo! I'm back at doing magic, and this year is all about Quidditch! The only thing missing is Ms. Wartbobble. Bye the way, has anyone seen her? I'm getting kinda worried about her. And who's filling in for Quidditch ref/headmistress if she doesn't show up for the beginning of the season? Questions, questions, questions.

My Kit ... Is Here!

2009-08-29T18:52:00.000-07:00

My kit from Hexy arrived today! I was so excited. I had to wait to open the box up long enough so Mom could get her camera to get the photographs.This is the shell box Hexy sent me. She got it from Tybee Island. She finds it the most peaceful and magical place on Earth. She sent me my own little box of stitch markers and a homemade one in the box.

This is an overall picture of the kit. I absolutely love the way she incorporated Ravenclaw colors into the kit. Complete with bag, patterns, needles, candy, and homemade snitch to name some of the items in it.

This is the patter for a dream pillow. It is a dog dishcloth pattern on the yellow paper, and behind the pattern, Hexy gave me handwritten instructions on how to make the cloth to a dream pillow. In the blue bag, she sent hand-grown herbs from her garden to put in the pillow.

This is the other pattern for a Neck Warmer/Headband. I am looking forward to using it this winter.

All in all, I absolutely love this kit. It was definitely worth the wait to get this kit!

Waiting ... Waiting ... and Waiting

2009-08-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

Well, it seems I am the lucky one who will receive their kit extra late. I have high hopes that it will come this week because I got an e-mail from Hexy saying she mailed it last Saturday, (the 15th). So here's hoping my package comes, because I have been haunting the mailbox and mailman for my box. :)

Gone

2009-08-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

Well, off to Idaho again. Dad's got a Highschool reunion to go to, and we are tagging along. Let's run over the checklist again:

Knitting needles (check)

DPN needles (check)

Sock yarn and other yarn (check)

Myachi (check)

Nintendo DS (check)

Nintendo DS extras (check)

The Cat Who book (check)

The Lord of The Rings (check)

I think that is everything for entertainment, except for maybe a notepad and pencil. Let's go!

Anticipa-aytion is making me wait!

2009-08-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

I am soooo looking forward to getting my kit. I just can't wait!. I know I have something great coming to me. I am practically jumping up and down in anticipation. I wonder if it will show up today?!?!

Delinquent

2009-08-05T10:02:00.001-07:00

My oh my, I have been a delinquent in blogging. I go off to Scout camp for one week and get excused from blogging for one week, and then I don't do it at all for a week and a half. I feel ashamed. Bad boy, bad boy. :)

Well, I am all set for the week, and am ready for the next game for the week. I hope it is a scavenger hunt!! Here's hoping.

Off to Scout Camp!

2009-07-26T10:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I am off for Scout camp! I am leaving one camp to go to another. But only for a week. (Please don't drink any Butterbeer while I am gone.) I will be camping under the stars, meeting new friends, and be fighting off bugs with bug spray. Here's hoping I come back whole and well, with lots of new friends and not too many bug bites. :) Have fun in the game for the week. Bye!

Game 5 answers

2009-07-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

Part 1 Answers

1. animagus

2. daily prophet

3. bowtruckle

4. extendable ear

5. radish earrings

6. forbidden forest

7. golden cherub

8. thestral

9. high inquisitor

10. educational decree

Part 2 - Photos!

1. Kid or mouse? Animagus brother!

2. Daily Prophet

3. Bowtruckle - for some reason, it's in the house!

4. and 5. Extendable Ear with Radish Earring

6. Forbidden Forest

7. Golden Cherub - (Don't tell Dad what C3PO does in his off time!)

8. Thestral - Hermione was taking a ride

9. High Inquisitor (or bossy brother???)

10. Educational Decree

GGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

This game is driving me insane! Especially looking for egg 13! I am looking everywhere and it keeps eluding me. I hope I get it soon. That would pull us into the lead! Fingers crossed.

Riddikulus!

2009-07-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning out beneath my bunk when all of a sudden I encountered a Boggart! It instantaneously transformed into a giant scorpion!

In a panic I flourish my wand and yell RIDDIKULUS!

I immediately start laughing ...

It's now our new puppy, Joule! I love the way her tail curls above her back like the scorpion ... but she's much cuter and easier to cuddle!

Summer Games #2

2009-07-05T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ok, here goes for both parts of the game.

1. Chamber of Secrets
2. Harry Potter
3. Ron Weasley
4. Hermione Granger
5. Gryffindor
6. Dark Arts
7. Gilderoy Lockhart
8. Chamber of Secrets
9. House Elf
10. Harry Potter
11. Moaning Myrtle
12. Harry Potter
13. Ron Wealsey
14. Harry Potter
15. Voldemort
16. Horcrux
17. Ron Wealsey
18. Ginny Weasley
19. Gilderoy Lockhart
20. Prisoner of Azkaban

The answer to part 2 is: When in doubt, go to the Library. Ron said it.

The Butterbeer Campfire Song

2009-06-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

Woowee, I have been having so much fun at camp so far. I have been worked to the bone. It is hard work making sure I read all the posts and keeping up with my cabinmates. And also keeping up with my virtual babysitting job. Going to Italy and back for someone, talk about hard work!!!!!

But the hardest thing is the constant swigging of Butterbeer. I have downed a total of 16 bottles so far. But I can't complain, I am having fun and I have a wonderful Butterbeer after-taste in my mouth. Mmmm-mmmm.

CAMP IS GREAT!!!!!!!!!!

What's in your trunk

2009-06-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Gryphon brought:

Green bug spray

Gloppy toothpast

Great attitude

Golden yarn

Gizmos

Gangrene remover (not for me)

Garnishes for a turkey

Garlic bread

Grade 9 report card

Glasses (sun and normal)

3 Truths and 1 Lie, can you find what is true?

2009-06-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, here we go with the Truths and Lie.

1. I have a very successful babysitting business.

2. I am the Assistant Patrol Leader in my Scout troop.

3. I am doing partnerwork in ballet class.

4. I have a massive Webkinz collection.

Messy Camp Cleanup

2009-06-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

I spent the morning cleaning out the camp's storage room. It hasn't had a thorough cleaning in at least a year. So Ambyr and I (along with my dad) took out all the garbage, sorted through old coloring books, got rid of old computers and electronic stuff (dad took it to the recycling center), and swept the place clean. Talk about hard work. But now it is done, and the camp can now store broomsticks, old gnome repellants, and curious Muggle artifacts and know exactly where they are.

Not-so-good news

2009-06-12T20:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I had ballet today, and for some reason, my left foot kept hurting. And because it was hurting on the bone near the top, I had to role through it every time I jumped to make sure I didn't make noise when I landed.

Turns out ... I probably have a stress fracture. Won't know until after we go to the doctor. But as we have a show coming up, if I go to the doc, and I do have a fracture, he will tell me to not dance. So I have to suck it up for a couple weeks. Fingers crossed it doesn't get worse.

I'm Bored

2009-06-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

I either need to make some of my famous Cranberry Surprizes or start learning how to knit socks ... and purl ... or plant some carrots ... or haunt HSKS8 for more summer camp info. Can you tell I don't know what to write and I'm bored?????????

Packing for Summer Camp

2009-06-12T08:21:00.001-07:00

Oatmeal is made ... toothbrush is packed ... waiting for cabin assignment.