HSKS 7

Package Received!!

2009-06-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

So I got back home a few days ago and I finally had a chance to post the pictures of the package I received from Mme. Ferula McGonagall. Click on the portkey to see the lovely package she sent me. Thank you so much for the great package and for your patience since you had to wait till I got back from my training in Oregon to have me post pictures and public thank yous! ((hugs))

Hooray! My Kit!

2009-05-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late post, but I received my kit from Morgana! Check out my blog for more details!

2009-05-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

Before HSKS 7 closes forever, go check out my blog to see the FANTASTIC kit I received from Sian. She really did out do herself for not just one handmade item, but two.

THANK you so much for it. I really like all of it. And thank you for being patient while I found all the parts and got them hooked up to show everyone.

See you at Summer Camp!

2009-05-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

The picture is the portkey!

Bye bye HSKS7!

I figured since the Rav threads were being archived today, I'd post a "see you later" blog with a link to HSKS8 Summer Camp... so it looks the same as the last post of HSKS6 linking here. :-)

I hope to see you there!

2009-05-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Check out my kit from Winifred Hornswaggle for a glimspe of the best. chocolate. ever.

And oh yeah, there's yarn and pretty knitting and more yarn to look at too ;)

Winners!!

2009-05-13T12:12:00.000-07:00

Time to announce the winners for HSKS 7!!!

Best Kit

Lizzie Wychwood

Best Bag

Elanor Cadogan

Quidditch

House Cup Winners

Round One
Allitrya Spelling

Round Two
Waverly Trimble

Round Three
Andromache Tonks

Announcements Today!

2009-05-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous turnout of voters for Best Kit and Best Bag this term! Thank you to everyone for your wonderful comments! The plaques have been made and Headmistress Wartbobble will be announcing the winners shortly! Thank you everyone for voting!!
-Bevin Rae

Thank you, Quinn!

2009-05-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry! Took me a couple of days to get in here and post the wonderful kit that Quinn sent. I lost my phone for a few days, which is the only camera I have right now. In any case, I did post this yesterday (not on my blog), but I wanted to get in here today and post the link for all to see. Please, click on THIS portkey to find your way.

An Owl has landed!

2009-05-11T19:29:00.000-07:00

Today i got a package form Phelicia Phoenixfire! Pics in my blog.

yaaaaaaaaaaay!

2009-05-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

and thank you lil miss tonks! here are my goodies. awesome huh?! want to read more about it? then go here to my other blog! (and dont even ask me whats up with the formatting over there. i cant ever seem to make it do what i want. that blog has a mind of its own! hahaha)

My awesome package!!!

2009-05-09T16:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, I finally got my awesome package picture posted! Check out the KnitPicks yarn in Gryffindor colors....enough to make the HSKS bag!!! The most spectacular Crystal Palace Needles! These are by far the nicest needles I have ever owned! There is some yummy tea with a super Starbucks mug. A beautiful journal to help me keep up with my projects and other things! A delicious candy bar! Beautiful...beautiful stitchmarkers by Bumblebirch Designs! Two washclothes and a coaster...all hand-made! And, last, but far from least a hand-made bag! I absolutely love it all and feel very, very spoiled! Thank you, thank you, thank you, Olive!!!! You are the best!

Hexy

Spoiled By Belladonna Boomslang Moody

2009-05-08T19:15:00.001-07:00

There wasn't an owl large enough to handle the package, so it had to be delivered by Muggle Post. Check out MY BLOG for all the awesomeness that I received from Bella today!

Ferula's Owl Has Arrived!

2009-05-07T23:59:00.000-07:00

Just look at Madam Ferula Finnigan's sweet little owl!

Then check out all the goodies he brought me, here!

Thank you, Ferula!

Owl delivery!

2009-05-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

An owl arrived today from Lady Arabella! Check out what was in my kit!

(click the portkey)

Thank you Lady Arabella! Your devoted friend, Olive Bumblebirch. :)

Best Kits Voting Has Begun!

2009-05-06T09:42:00.001-07:00

The pic is the Portkey to the contest and voting ends Sunday evening!

Spoiled by Buttercup Goblinshimmer Dumbledore!

2009-05-06T08:56:00.001-07:00

I have been SO SPOILED! Visit my blog to see!

Preview:

Thanks Allitrya Spelling!

2009-05-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

Awsome package from Allitrya Spelling of Ravenclaw Tower! Come drool on my Blog, just remember to clean up after yourself afterwards.

A pic of the awsome bag she made!

LOOKEE at what I HAVE!!!!!!!!

2009-05-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

The owl came by and placed the box on my back porch for me yesterday. I was so excited about it that I forgot to post.

See what I was sent from Ceciley

Treasure Hunt Badges

2009-05-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

These badges are a little late in coming, but none the less well-deserved by our lucky treasure hunters.

Violet Starfire

Mantacora Crimson
Helena Lovegood
Wisteria Lovegoods
Felula Pinkstone

Well done, everyone! And thanks for your patience, my clever treasure hunters! See you next term!

An owl landed early last week...

2009-05-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

But I'm just getting to posting about it! Sorry Bevin!

My amazing kit from Bevin Rae is posted now on my blog.

Don't Leave Just Yet!!

2009-05-04T00:42:00.000-07:00

Angel Kits
This was almost a "Good bye, students!" post, but then I remembered that we're not done with Best Kits yet. So, let's consider this our final wrap up week. Besides Best Kits this week is also a very busy week for the Hogwarts staff. During this week we are trying hard to communicate with everyone who hasn't sent their kit on a regular basis. By the end of this week we will have a final determination of who will need angel kits based on if anyone has flaked out or not.

Those that will be receiving angel kits should have them mailed out to them by the 15th of May. Unfortunately, this term we do not believe that we received as many donations for angel kits and prizes, so another thing that we must determine is what we will be able to give by the end of this week.

For those of you that have made monetary donations and donations of items during this term - Thank you! You are a lifesaver and appreciated by all of Hogwarts.

Prizes
If there are any prizes to be had they will also be determined after the angel kit donations have been given out. I will be creating the image for the Quidditch Champions this week also.

Kits
Please continue to post pictures of your kits as you receive them. We love to look at the fabulous kits so that we can all get ideas for the next time around.

Packing & HSKS 8
So, take your time packing your things and saying good bye until next term. Those of you joining us for Summer Camp, please continue Constant Vigilance! so that you don't miss the sign up. Watch the rav board and the HSKS 8 site for more details.

Check out my kit!!

2009-05-01T22:23:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU URSULA LONGBOTTOM!!!

Please do not look if you get jealous, because this kit rocks!! Here is a sneak peak of 1 of the 4 bags I got (oh yeah, you read correctly 4)!! Check out my blog at http://lavenderdiggory.blogspot.com/ for all the great pics!!

My Package arrived!!!

2009-05-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

Chrysta the Cursed spoiled me rotten. I Love LOVE LOVE my bag... Which is currently full of awesome knitterly goodness!!! Thanks Chrysta!! A Bunch!

Mad mad stories!

2009-04-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

Wow! Reading through all the Mad Libs stories has made my stomach ache from laughing so hard! Rather than point out one or two, we've given some highlights and links to all of them! If I've missed yours, please let me know ASAP!! Thanks to everyone who contributed to the hilarity!

(And by the way, this may have been Ravenclaw homework, but you'll see that other houses participated in and added to, the often unexpected, but seriously amusing accounts!!)

Who can forget Fleur Sweeting's tale of Rowena serenading the stitch markers?! Rowena Bladvak however tells the tale differently! Maybe it was the extra cheese on Fleur's hot fudge sundae that caused her to run towards the stitch markers herself!?

Madame Hooch had a run in with a cream-filled hot dog... I saw it myself with my own two eyes! Eeewww, that sounds rather gross to me. At least Patonga Pinkstone and Waverly Trimble enjoyed hot fudge sundaes and stormy socks!!

Emma Gorodok's Diagon Alley adventure with Hermione brought an unexpected new fact out about Slytherin's Head of House, Professor Snape and a certain type of clothing he chooses to wear in his off hours. Megaera Black also witnessed Snape’s unusual clothing choices and is still trying to figure out how Lizzie Wychwood (who has her own wee ones at home) managed to get bitten by a baby with a bean burrito!!

Do you know that Centy B. really really likes Curry flavored ice cream?!! She must really really really love it have walked so far for it! Unusual ice cream tastes must be common in Gryffindor. Penelope of Flitwick likes mustard on her hot fudge sundaes... and toaster cozy patterns too. At least, that's according to Prendolyn the Weirds' tale!

Fresh gossip about the DADA and his drinking habits! I can understand why Professor Solum likes firewhiskey floats after reading Olive Bumblebirch's tale! But did you also know Helena Lovegoods spied Professor Hot Pants (for that is what Fervens Solum means) having a Baybreeze float as well... something about a fat turkey and Solum's underwear I hear...

Rare flora and fauna seem to be in abundance at Gringott's! Casandara Crimsonchin found out about Thalia Tinkywych's rare purple hydrangea bush... and Andromache Tonks solves the Victoria Pettigrew mystery of the adequate kitten... adequate at what I wonder?? Fiera Firenze had fun at the giraffe store and heard about Quinn's frozen custard hit while protecting Antonio's crunchy candy at Gringotts as well... and, I mean really!?! What is it with mother goblins and their food choices for their offspring?! Amethyst Aurag heard all about Buttercup Goblinshimmer Dumbledore's run in with a baby goblin and Pinot Grigio?! So that's how they keep them calm!!

Wisteria Lovegood and Megaera Black (who... ssshh... wears a chastity belt but don't tell her I told you!) had a near collision with a sparkling oyster! They survived, but poor Hexy Elfshimmer had a run in with a tuna-noodle casserole and was photographed with ruined robes. Hexy should have went with Hermione and Olive instead! Hermione's description of chocolate ice cream and butterbeer floats has made me hungry! I can’t believe she missed Professor Flitwick’s lecture on Hippogryphs! I guess, smooth crochet hooks truly are hard to come by!

The Fleurs... Dolohov and Sweeting had excellent fun on their trip to Diagon Alley. After an incident in the mashed potato shoppe, the Fleurs found solace in strawberry ice cream and chocolaty chocolate sundaes. The most impressive trek for sweets has to be Cassie Goode! She walked 555 blocks for it and still managed to make it to Yrsa's Yarn Shoppe to purchase flowing socks.

Best Kits Blog... is yours missing?

2009-04-28T09:24:00.000-07:00

All the listings for kits have been updated on the Best Kits blog.

Is yours missing? Have you already sent to your spoilee but you do not have a link on the Best Kits blog?

Please email me or post a comment on this blog with a link to your kit.

Thank you!
Bevin Rae

Owl sighting!

2009-04-28T08:43:00.001-07:00

Rowena Weasley's charming owl dropped a package off for me last week--check out all the goodies on my blog. A million thanks, Rowena!!!

Owl arrived!

2009-04-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Woo!! Violette Black sent me the most awesome kit! Check it out here at my blog for more pictures!

THANK YOU I LOVE IT ALL!!!

Swap Wrap-Up & HSKS 8

2009-04-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello, students!!!

I know that every house has a flurry of activities going on as we all pack and clean our rooms before summer arrives. Though this was a rather rocky term I hope that you all had a fabulous time! This term marked the first time when we scheduled school wide meet ups and judging from the blog postings the meetups went well. I know that it's always nice to put a face to a name.

As we close up the school year, please be extra dilligent in communicating with your Head Girls and letting them know when you will be sending your kits if you have not done so already. Please also remember that Delivery Confirmation is required. We haven't had any lost packages yet this term, but this is the only way for us to make sure that you sent your package. No delivery confirmation and no received package will result in not being allowed to participate in future swaps.

As of right now these are the standings on sent packages per House:

Gryffindor - 63%
Hufflepuff - 65%
Ravenclaw - 76%
Slytherin - 80%

As some of you are aware - HSKS 8 will be themed Summer Camp and promises to be rather different than our regular terms. There will be no Quidditch (though we may come up with a comparable substitute), no Dueling Club, and there will be no S.P.E.W. There will be meetups for the Half-Blood Prince viewing. There will be ROAK, and there will be one optional swap long competition that includes a traveling box of items. There will also be assigned mixed housing cabin mates. A lower kit minimum and maximum. Other plans are in the works and the HSKS8 blog will be updated as ideas come to fruition.

For those of you on Facebook, there is also a link to the Facebook HSKS group. This is just another way for us to communicate and interact in a fun way. The membership is closed, so if you would like to join the group you have to send a request to do so. I believe there should be a link to the right of the page. Let me know if you have problems.

I hope to see many of you at Summer Camp!!

Owl Post from Megaera Black!

2009-04-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

A tired little owl arrived at Wychwood House today, read all about it over here.

A Package For Me!

2009-04-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

I got a great package from Lily of Flitwick earlier this week and this is the first that I have had time to post. There are pictures on my blog. Thanks Lily!

Ravenclaw Mad Libs Part 2

2009-04-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's the story and instructions. (link back to the list to make)

Replace each number with the corresponding word you wrote on your blog/homework earlier this week and post this story as a blog... and hey, if you do it Sunday instead of today, you'll have posted a blog for the last week of the term! :-) Woo Hoo! I'll be looking at all the stories and will post the top two or three after our Head Girl Wisty and fellow Prefect Hermione and I all vote on them.

If you can, please post a comment here that you've put your story up. :-) Thank you!

I have to tell you about the 1 time I had in Diagon Alley last weekend! My friend 2 and I decided that we really needed some new 3 and had to get over to Diagon Alley immediately. 2 put on their 4 because it was 5 and did not want to get a cold. I grabbed my 6 and we headed to the trains.

While waiting for our train to Diagon Alley, we chatted with 7 and 8 who were planning to visit Gringott’s. 8 did not want to go alone because he/she was collecting a 9 and that was very 10 and brought 7 along for their excellence in protecting spells.

The train arrived and off we went. Our seats were very comfortable and the train sped along towards Diagon Alley and we were there in a flash! Before heading to the Yrsa’s Yarn Shoppe, we went into a 11 that sells the 12 13(s)!!! As we neared the 11, we noticed quite a lot of commotion! The 11 owner had set the 13-making machine and it had gotten stuck! 13 (s) were 14 everywhere! I ducked as a cream-filled 13 came 14 right at me and it 15 into 16Professor ___ ’s 17 just as they walked through the door! A 18 13 did a nose dive and splattered all over the 19 most elaborately! We made it out of the store just as a 13 frog and a kettle of Bertie Bott’s every flavor beans collided in a rainstorm of goo!

Since we were still 20, we walked the 21 blocks over to Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor! I decided on a cone with 22 ice cream and 2 got the hot fudge sundae with extra 23 (s)! Yummy! 16Professor had made their way over here as well after the incident at the 13 shoppe and had chosen a 24 float.

After that, we passed Gringott’s and headed to Yrsa’s Yarn Shoppe! I tried not to look at the beautiful skeins of silk and bamboo and wool and instead, headed toward the 3 while 2 stopped to 25 the stitch markers. I found a 26 3 made out of steel and made my purchase. 2 kept hedging between the 3 she came for and a pattern for a 27. She chose the 27 pattern and we walked the back towards the train station just in time to make the 12:30 train.

After sitting down, we noticed 7 and 8 were on the train as well. 8 looked quite 28 to have the 9 with them. 7 however did not look 28 ed at all. While waiting to go into the vault, a baby goblin waiting in line with his Mommy, had 29 on 7 getting 30 all over their clean robes! The smell really was just horrendous! Apparently, 7 ’s protecting spells don’t work well against 30!! We made our way to a less smelly compartment and talked about how we were going explain missing Professor 31 ’s lecture on the valuable ways 32 (s) are working with the Department of Mysteries in solving unsolvable 33 (s)!

Package from Helena

2009-04-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

I came home today to find a lovely package from Helen Lovegood. Pictures posted here.

Many thanks from Patonga!

Angel Kit Reminder (one more time!)

2009-04-23T15:26:00.001-07:00

HSKS7 is unfortunately coming to an end (only 9 days). This term has been, without a doubt, the best yet at Hogwarts. I hope everyone has had fun and will be coming back for HSKS8 (Summer Camp! Swimming, fishing, charms - does it get any better? Maybe with S'mores).

I'd like to remind everyone of the continuing need for contributions to angel kits. Of course, we aren't anticipating actually needing angel kits, right? Right?

If you are able to help out with items for angel kits, I would appreciate receiving your contributions by the end of April. We are in need of all of the elements of an swap kit plus other fun goodies. A suggestion was made that a yarn and pattern could be substituted for an actual knit item. Please PM or email me for the address where to send the items, or if you have any questions about what is still needed. All contributions will be appreciated, particularly by those who will receive them.

And special thanks to everyone who has already offered to help. I know who you are!

Violette Black at gmail dot com or knitknot on Ravelry

Ravenclaw Homework Reminder

2009-04-23T13:17:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder about this weeks Ravenclaw Homework

Link back to the original homework post

We'll post the top two or three "stories" on HSKS so that everyone can partake in the laughter!

THANK YOU HEXY!!!

2009-04-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

Hexy is an awesome spoiler! Thank you so much for everything, I love it!!!!!! Check out my blog for more pics/details. :)

Violet Starfire is AWESOME!!!

2009-04-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

Violet's owl landed today, and I had to send him to the infirmary--the package he was carrying was so heavy, it almost killed the poor bird! Please come visit my royal castle to see the amazing kit she bestowed upon me! Thank you Violet--you're awesome!

a very tired owl arrived

2009-04-22T02:58:00.000-07:00

Today a very tired owl brought me a package from the US to Germany. Have a look at my blog to see what the wonderful Pandora Phelps sent me

I am sooo spoiled!!!

2009-04-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

I received a spectacular box of goodies yesterday! Thank you, thank you, Olive! I will post pictures soon!

Hexy

Owl Has Landed

2009-04-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

The owl has landed with my kit from Andromeda Finch-Flechley yesterday. Awsome package and a great spoiler. Check out my blog for pictures and details.

Ella's Hootie Has Arrived!

2009-04-21T10:37:00.000-07:00

Head to my blog http://knitcrochetsew.blogspot.com/ to see all the wonderful items.

- Clara Clovenhoof

Suzie Weasley Rocks!

2009-04-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

I received my swap package today from Suzie Weasley, and it is so awesome! Thank you so much, especially for my little Hedwig. She is adorable!

More Photos on my blog.

I got my kit from CentyB

2009-04-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

I think that this was one of the best packages that I have ever opened. I love it! (And Rocky loves it too!)

For more pictures, and to find out why my little "rock-monster" was so interested in my kit see my blog. :)

2009-04-20T19:03:00.000-07:00

THE OWL HAS LANDED!!

Olivia Gaunt's owl left me a fantastic package today!!
You can see it here!

THANK YOU, OLIVIA!!

Gryffindor Homework .... and Winners!

2009-04-20T16:43:00.001-07:00

Greetings! We Gryffindors are long-overdue in announcing some homework winners. They are:

Arithmancy sudoku - Minerva Lovegood
Ravenclaw quiz - Lydia Figg
and
Who and Why - Clara Clearwater (Tonks)

And....here's this week's assignment: Predict the winning Hogwarts house for HSKS7 and the total points for each house. Post your response to your blogs by Saturday at 12 midnight ET.

An owl from Waverly!

2009-04-20T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hop on over to my blog to see what lovely gifts arrived for me today!

Ravenclaw Homework, Part 1

2009-04-20T13:14:00.000-07:00

Similar to the very funny Hufflepuff homework from HSKS6!

Here is what you do:
Write a blog this week with your own list of these words by Friday, April 24th. On Saturday, I will post the story for you to add your answers in and then you can publish your unique tale on your blog. The sillier the better of course! Each number should be a different answer. I will post my own answers shortly as an example.

1- An adjective
2- A fellow Ravenclaw
3- A knitting or crocheting item
4- A clothing accessory
5- An adjective
6- Something you always have with you
7- A HSKS student1
8- A HSKS student2
9- A noun
10- An adjective
11- A noun
12- An adjective
13- A food
14- An adjective ending in “ing”
15- An adjective ending in “ed”
16- A Professor at Hogwarts
17- An article of clothing
18- A food flavor
19- A part of a room
20- An adjective
21- A number
22- A food flavor
23- A food topping
24- A drink
25- A verb
26- An adjective
27- Something you can knit or crochet
28- An adjective
29- A past tense verb
30- A food or drink
31- A Professor at Hogwarts
32- A magical creature in Harry Potter’s world
33- A noun

When done, you can go to the story blog (linked here now) to fill in your answers!

Welcome Kenzie!

2009-04-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

For anybody who has been wondering.... Yes, I had my baby!!! My little girl was born on Friday, April 10th. Although "little" doesn't really fit as she weighed in at a whopping 9lbs 12oz!!!

2009-04-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

An Owl arrived from Fiera Firenze this week! Thank you so much for the wonderful package, check it out on my blog :D

Package from Lily May Clearwater

2009-04-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

My swap package from Lily has arrived! Go check out my blog for news and pictures of all the loveliness!

I recieved an owl from Lyddia Figg!

2009-04-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lyddia for an excellent package! Come to my blog to check it out!

Congratulations!!

2009-04-18T09:48:00.001-07:00

Congratulations goes to Adromache Tonks of Ravenclaw!!!

Awesome, awesome game :) I had one complication at the end because the image would not load!!!! Ugh!!! The path was inspired by Bevin, but the clues were laid by an intense spell created by me. I've never had so many windows open at once!!! And never have we had one house win all 3 Quidditch matches. Well done, Ravenclaws!!!

And, I must say Bevin did not know the full path, but inspired the flow and created some of the rhymes. She wanted to make sure that it was better than last time and lasted longer than last time.

First Clue

2009-04-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!!!

Post Your Snitch Findings Here

2009-04-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Have fun on the hunt, but remember the final steps!!!
After you find the Snitch you must post here the link to the page where it's been found and one more clue. Be sure to have them before you return.

Good luck!!

Slytherin!

2009-04-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

We'll fly so fast, we'll fly so high,
We'll snatch that Snitch out of the sky.

You think we're mean, you think you're tough?
Just wait until we rough you up.

Our Beater's big, our Seeker's fast,
So close your eyes, we'll make it fast!

Roar, ROAR G R Y F F I N D O R ! !

2009-04-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

Onward to Victory, Ravenclaws!

2009-04-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

Our uniforms are clean and pressed, our brooms are in prime working order, and our spirits are high!

Victory is only a snitch away, Ravenclaws!

Ready For The Hunt!

2009-04-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

Team Hufflepuff is ready to hunt that Golden Snitch!
PUFFS for the win!

Kit in the air

2009-04-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

Ginny Crookshanks, watch for the owl, it is on it's way to you.

Mafalda

What To Expect When You Are Expecting a . . . Snitch!!

2009-04-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

NOTE: The above image is NOT the Snitch you are looking for.

Alas, students, we've come to the final round. And this one will prove to be the most exciting yet, I can promise you. There will be

Approximately 8 to 11 clues left in various places.
Clues that are more elusive weaved with intricate rhymes.
At least 2 of those clues will be left on sites outside of the normal HSKS influence

And finally, the page where the Snitch will be found will ask you one question that you must answer along with the direct page link (not image link) to where the Snitch resides.

This round will include the magic of many tiled windows on my screen and complicated spells that will be cast all at once - but don't worry! The difficulty of the spells will be such that no one will decipher them quickly. The search, however, should last no longer than 30 to 45 minutes. Though I am a powerful witch, I must give credit to my assistant, Bevin, for her creativity and willingness to make the hunt great.

So, be prepared, my students!!! Make sure that your robes are pressed (trivia posted) and you get a good rest tonight. For tomorrow . . . WE HUNT!!!

And more for the daunting musical accompaniment then the mention of a brother and a green snitch (those are NOT clues :)

Dueling Club GRAND FINALE!

2009-04-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

I selected the patterns for the final round of the dueling club in hopes that the patterns can be worn in the warm spring and summer months. They're more lighter weight and lacy and hopefully will keep you slightly warm in the chilly spring evenings.

Knit Hat Bracket Pattern
Lacecap
Lacecap, Ravelry Link

Knit Mittens/Gloves Bracket Pattern
Nereid Fingerless Gloves
Nereid Fingerless Gloves, Ravelry Link

The knit Mittens/Gloves Bracket will also need this pattern for additional charts for their gloves.

Best of luck everyone!

watch the skies

2009-04-16T22:39:00.000-07:00

Hootie has left for Clara Clovenhoof of Slytherin.

The ultimate spoil!

2009-04-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

I was spoiled by Minerva Wood....

Everything in the package is great! This was truly a great package.

I can't express enough gratitude to Minerva for being the most excellent swapper.

~Lady Arabella Carmichael of Gryffindor

Goldfish again.

2009-04-15T22:38:00.000-07:00

I posted about the wonderful package I got and forgot to post it here. From Ms. Beanswallow

Felly is an awesome Spoiler!!!

2009-04-15T16:05:00.001-07:00

My it from Felly came today, I'm so in love with the little owl. :D

Thank you SO much Felly. I'm planning on having a cup of tea after dinner and soaking in the tub with it. :D

Check out my blog for the pictures/scoop.

Wisteria is Awesome

2009-04-15T16:05:00.000-07:00

My kit arrived today from Wisteria Lovegoods..... She is awesome!

Come see the photos on my blog!

My Kit Has Arrived

2009-04-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

Thank you SO much, Clara Clearwater, for spoiling me! You did a wonderful job. I love it all. Check it out on my blog

Crucio!

2009-04-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gents!
The end of the week marks the last week that we will drop anyone from the swap for non-participation or no contact. If you have not blogged two weeks prior to this week you will be receiving an email notifying you that you have been dropped from the swap.

If your spoilee has not blogged two weeks prior to this week, please do not send their package!!! We will be notifying you no later than this Thursday who you will be mailing your package to, so that if you wanted to send your package off before the early bonus deadline you could still do that.

IF you will be receiving a package from your spoilers spoiler, please understand that the kit you receive might not be in your house colors.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact me via email or your head girl. Thank you!!

Quidditch - Round Three

2009-04-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

The Snitch will be released on Saturday between

9 a.m. and 10 a.m. PST
10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Mountain
11 a.m. and Noon CST
Noon and 1 p.m. EST
5 p.m. and 6 p.m. London

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?
a. Black
b. Lupin
c. Pucey
d. Finnigan

2. Which “Harry Potter” character’s first name is the Roman equivalent of the Greed Goddess Athena?
a. Evans
b. Malfoy
c. McGonagall
d. Flitwick

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?
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?
a. Theodore
b. Cedric
c. Viktor
d. Vincent

5. Which character’s name is the name of goddess in Indian mythology?
a. Creevey
b. Patil
c. Zabini
d. Vane

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?
a. Maurice Sendak
b. Chris Van Allsberg
c. Ezra Jack Keats
d. John Steptoe

7. What was NOT one of the unexpected defense mechanisms that Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Griphook encountered in their attempt to rob Gringotts?
a. The Flagrante Curse
b. The Thieves’ Downfall
c. Anti-summoning Enchantments
d. The Geminio Curse

8. What was Snape aiming at when he cut off George’s ear?
a. Another Death Eater’s back
b. George’s wand hand
c. Another Death Eater’s wand hand
d. George’s face

9. How much older than James was Lily? (Referring to Harry’s parents, not children).
a. James was older
b. 6 months
c. 1 month
d. 2 months

10. Food is one of the five exceptions to what magical law?
a. Grimp’s Law of Elemental Transfiguration
b. Gamp’s Law of Elemental Transfiguration
c. Gamp’s Law of Fundamental Transfiguration
d. Grimp’s Law of Fundamental Transfiguration

Picture Hunt
George
McGonagall
Patil
Where the Wild Things Are

I've been Spoiled!

2009-04-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

I have gotten really spoiled by Penelope Caerphilly!
Here is my loot! She has really out done herself!
The yarn is sinfully soft! ; )
I LOVE it Pene! Thanks so much girl!

Fleur is FABULOUS

2009-04-13T14:08:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to my spoiler, Ravenclaw Fleur Dolohov!

Head over to my blog and take a look at the awesome.

Happy Birthday!

2009-04-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Lily of Flitwick!

We will have some birthday Chocolate Mousse waiting for you at the Slytherin chat tonight

Everybody, Come See What Cassandra Puddlemere Sent!

2009-04-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

This has been a tough term for me. Not because of the professors or the schoolwork, but because of the flood threatening my muggle town, Fargo ND. For ten solid days the entire town mobilized to fill sandbags and build dikes. All schools and most businesses closed so the students and employees could work at flood prevention. For us, jeans coated with sand from the knee down was a fashion statement. Aching backs and sore arms were a badge of honor. We lost a tiny bit of our town in the first crest, and are now waiting for the second crest to hit in a few days. For this week, at least, the water restrictions have been lifted. That means I can take a long hot bath and relax.

Which is a good thing, because my spoiler, the wonderful Cassandra Puddlemere, sent me a box jam packed with wonderful stress-busting things like scented bath salts, organic herbal teas, jordan almonds and lots of wonderful knitting supplies. Take a look at it on my blog while I go soak in a tub and relax.

Angel Kit Reminder

2009-04-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

HSKS7 is unfortunately coming to an end. This term has been, without a doubt, the best yet at Hogwarts. I hope everyone has had fun and will be coming back for HSKS8 (rumor has it there will be another term - yay!).

I'd like to remind everyone of the continuing need for contributions to angel kits. Of course, we aren't anticipating actually needing angel kits, right? Right?

If you are able to help out with items for angel kits, I would appreciate receiving your contributions by the end of April. We are in need of all of the elements of an swap kit plus other fun goodies. A suggestion was made that a yarn and pattern could be substituted for an actual knit item. Please PM or email me for the address where to send the items, or if you have any questions about what is still needed. All contributions will be appreciated, particularly by those who will receive them.

Violette Black at gmail dot com

Deadline Update

2009-04-10T11:16:00.001-07:00

Hello, students!

Early Bonus Deadline
I'm excited to see the wonderful kits that have been flying through the air! I just wanted to write this little note to remind you all that the bonus for sending your kit early expires on Friday, April 17th. Kits must be in the mail with the Delivery Confirmation emailed to your Head Girl and Bevin in order to receive the 50 pt. bonus for your House. ALSO, if you would like your kit to be included in the Best Kit contest you MUST take a picture of the kit yourself and email that to Bevin. She'll keep the photo safe until your pal receives it, so there will be no spoilers.

Almost to the End!
This swap is nearing it's end! Only Three more weeks before ALL kits must be mailed. If you are ordering items to go in the kit, I beg of you!!!!!!! PLEASE do not wait until April 24th to order your items. I can almost guarantee that your spoilee will NOT receive his or her kit on time and you will be in jeopardy of not being allowed to swap with us again. You MUST have your kit in the mail by May 1st. If you suspect that you will not be able to meet that deadline you MUST email your Head Girl immediately.

Package Arrival!!

2009-04-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

Come check out the fantastic Package that Elanor Cadagon of HUfflepuff put together for me!!

Thank you so much Elle! I love it!

CLICK ME!!

Dueling Club Finals, Specs

2009-04-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hello Duelers! Is everyone excited for this year's dueling club final?!?!? Here are the specifications for the final round of the duel.

Knit Hat

The knit hat will require a skein (less than 120 yards) of fingering weight yarn. You will also be using US 2 (2.75 mm) DPNs. The gauge is 30 sts / 36 rows is 4" in stockinette stitch.

Knit Mittens / Gloves

The knit mittens/gloves will require approximately 200 yards of fingering weight yarn. You will also be using US 1 (2.25 mm) DPNs. The gauge is 28 - 30 stitches is 4” in K1 P1 ribbing

The pattern will be released this Sunday, April 12th at 11:30 AM CST.

Owl from Cassandra C.!!!

2009-04-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

My Ravenclaw pal, Cassandra Crimsonchin's owl came today! Check out everything on my blog. Look for two post! Thank you so much Cassandra! You are fantastic!

Ravenclaw Homework

2009-04-08T19:12:00.000-07:00

My deepest apologies 'Claws for not getting this up sooner!
BONUS prize will be awarded to one lucky Ravenclaw with the most correct answers!

The winner of last week will be announced once I get my wee-wizards off to bed!

Ravenclaw Homework:
Please post the answers on your blog by Saturday, noon PST.

1- Who wrote the obituary of Dumbledore in The Daily Prophet?
2- What is a Squib?
3- Who stole the locket Horcrux from the Black House?
4- What are the Albus Dumbledores' siblings names?
5- Where did Hermione leave the money for the eggs and bread that they stole from the lonely farm?
6- What is the quote Lily and James Potter have on their tombstone?
7- Why did Gilbert Grindewald leave wizarding school?
8- Where does Xeno Lovegood first say that Luna is when Ron, Hermione and Harry visit?
9- What wood is the wand from The Deathly Hallows supposed to be made out of?
10- How did Harry, Hermione and Ron escape the vaults of Gringotts?
11- What is the name of the all-female Quidditch team that Ginny has a poster of in her room?
12- Describe what the Undetectable Extension Charm is.

I've been spoiled

2009-04-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

Thank you Ophelia Crookshanks for your package! I love everything, especially my golden snitch bag. Here's two pictures and I'll post more in a couple of days.

Suzie

St. Patrick's Treasure Hunt Results

2009-04-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

The winner of the St. Patrick's Treasure Hunt with early finish, completed list, and the cutest models ever seen is...

Violet Starfire!

You win a set of stitch markers from Bumblebirch, made just for you!
Check out Violet's photos!

Arbitrary Honorable Mentions go to:

Mantacora Crimson for the most delicious pint of brew!
Helena Lovegood for Delta Turtle creativity!
Felula Pinkstone for the cutest helper, Floyd!
Wisteria Lovegoods for the sexiest framed picture!

Your participation badges are on their way! Thank you for playing!

Completely spoiled!

2009-04-07T13:49:00.000-07:00

My owl post arrived today and I'm bowled over by the thoughtfulness and kindness of Ginny Crookshanks! Thank you!

I've got pictures on the blog.

Tea w/Headmistresses!

2009-04-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Please join us for tea Thursday, April 9th!
It has been hot here, but I hear that rain is headed our way, so a nice piping cup of tea sounds delish!!

First Tea

10 a.m. PST
11 a.m. MST
Noon Central
1 p.m. EST
6 p.m. London

Second Tea

5 p.m. PST
6 p.m. MST
7 p.m. Central
8 p.m. EST
1 a.m. London

WOW! That's a tierd Owl!

2009-04-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

My Kit just arrived! Wow! No really, WOW. Point to Lav DD for packing so much in a small space! I've posted Pics on my page, but here is a preview! The bag alone has some great workmanship in it. Check out the whole kit, it's fantastic!

Mantacora

PIX!!

2009-04-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

ok so here is the pic of my wonderful RAOK from the great Penelope C. She sent me a teaser as to what she's going to be spoiling me.
The little blue yarn is 60.5 yards of the first yarn she spun on her new wheel! Isn't that so sweet! She personally designed the recipe cards for me in hopes that I would get an interest in baking. I save the best for last, the beaded row counter! it is so pretty!! I just love the colors!! The red is so cherry you could eat them! lol Now to learn how to use it... ; )
Thanks again Pene I just love it all and am so geeked about getting spoiled by you!!

Happy Birthday to Lizzie and Emma

2009-04-05T04:32:00.000-07:00

Lizzie of Gryffindor and Emma of Slytherin ...

Hope you're enjoying a wonderful day!!

Thank You Esme!

2009-04-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

I received a RAOK today from Esme Beanswallow. Thank you, thank you, thank you so much! Details are on my blog.

PATONGA...YOU ROCK!!

2009-04-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

Head on over to my blog and take a look-see at what the fantabulous Patonga Pinkstone sent yours truly!!

Thanks

2009-04-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

I got a package today from Mona I had to run to work so i havent even opened it.
I will post pics once I see what is inside
Madam Ferula

St.Patrick Day Scavenger Hunt Winner??

2009-04-01T19:50:00.000-07:00

hey is there gonna be a winner for the st. patrick day scavenger hunt?? i think there was only 5 of us that actually did it but i was just wondering if there was gonna be one or not:D

thanks Emma for a wonderful trip & swap!!

2009-04-01T05:08:00.001-07:00

I posted what Emma Wigglesworth got me over at the blog.

Hufflepuff House Quiz

2009-03-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

Here is the house quiz for this week.

1. James Potter and his friends have nicknames for each other - give three names and who they belong to.

2. What are the three Deathly Hallows?

3. What are the four items that belong to the founders of the houses at Hogwarts?

4. What is the Hogwarts Motto?

5. What is the Hogwarts school song (Book 1)?

6. What does O.W.L. stand for?

7. What exams do Hogwarts students take at the end of their 7th year?

8. What form does Snape's Patronus take?

9. Who takes over teaching divination after Trelawney is sacked by Delores Umbridge (Book 6)?

10. Who is Elanor Cadogan's boyfriend? What is his brother's name?

I love love love Diana Lockhart...

2009-03-31T01:27:00.001-07:00

I nominate her for the best spoiler. Read all about my awesome package on my blog. Warning, I got picture happy.

Thanks you so much Diana. Can I request you for spoiler next term. ;)

Ravenclaw Homework

2009-03-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

Aaah, the 9-letter word of our favorite house! This week, this word is being used for your homework.

Here are the rules and directions:

The center letter MUST be used in each word you find (i.e. Crawl, Raw, Arc, etc.)
You can only use each letter once.... since there are two A's in Ravenclaw, you can use it twice.
The letters do not need to be connected to be used... but the R must be in each word.
Blog your list of words by Friday, April 3rd.

OPTIONAL BONUS:

For the 'Claw who loves word scrambles like this, you can add a list of words that do not include the R (i.e. Claw, Law, Awl, etc.) What's the bonus for? Hmmm... we're not telling... you'll have to play and see!!

Have fun!

Dueling Club, Semifinal Round

2009-03-27T17:50:00.000-07:00

Good evening Duelers! This round's theme is Twilight! I know we're all here because we share a love of all things Harry Potter but these patterns were gorgeous and both are based on items worn in the Twilight movie. So, here goes:

Knit Hat Bracket Pattern
Bella's Hat
Bella's Hat, Ravelry Link

Knit Mittens/Gloves Bracket Pattern
Bella's Mittens
Bella's Mittens, Ravelry Link

Best of luck everyone!

Early Send Bonus

2009-03-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Beginning today every house will receive a 50 pts. bonus for each kit that is sent between now and April 17th.
Delivery Confirmation MUST be included.

REMINDER: Mailing Requirements

2009-03-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

Hello, students!!
I thought that now was a great time to shout out a little reminder of the mailing requirements, especially since kits are flying through the air on trusty and reliable owls as you read this.

Mailing Requirements

For those in the U.S. you will be required to purchase a Delivery Confirmation when you send your package off. Delivery Confirmation provides both proof of mailing and allows you to track your package to make sure that it gets to it's destination. When you purchase the Delivery Confirmation option you will need to email your tracking # to your Head Girl

Requirement: Delivery Confirmation provides proof of mailing at the time of mailing and date and time of delivery or attempted delivery. A delivery record is maintained by the USPS. Delivery Confirmation is available with First-Class Mail and Priority Mail. For an additional fee, Delivery Confirmation may be combined with restricted delivery or return receipt. Each student is required to purchase delivery confirmation. When the package is sent you must email the delivery confirmation to your Head girl so that she may update our databases with the information. Believe me!! Packages go lost more often than we like. Delivery Confirmation is also proof that a package was mailed at all and may save you from being black listed from future swaps if you cut it close to the deadline for sending out your package.

Best Kit
In order to have your kit considered for the Best Kit category you MUST take a picture of your kit before you send it. Email that picture to your Head Girl as well as to Bevin - our Best Kit Coordinator. Many times the kit receiver might not have a camera handy when he or she receives your kit. Wouldn't it be a shame if you poured your heart and soul into your kit, but didn't get a chance to show it off to the whole of Hogwarts???

Suggestion: Flat Rate Boxes
Hopefully many of you know about this option, which the postal service provides. Flat Rate boxes!! Whatever you can fit into this box will only cost you $9.95 to ship, plus your Certified Mail. The joy of it is that you can get the boxes from the postal service for free. You can either order them online or visit your local postal site and request them in person. There is also a larger box option at $12.95.

An Owl Has Landed!

2009-03-25T09:55:00.000-07:00

I think it may be the first one, which (if possible) makes it even more exciting! :)

My dearest and most sincere thanks go out to Dagmara Grindewald of Gryffindor. Here's a link: http://ronnisroundup.blogspot.com/2009/03/my-kit-is-here.html

And a photo:

Dueling Club, Semi-Final Specifications

2009-03-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hello Duelers! This week I have a super fantastic theme, which shall become obvious on Friday :) Regardless, here are your specifications for the semi-final round of the duel.

Knit Hat

The knit hat will require a skein (less than 100 yards) of bulky weight yarn. You will also be using US 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles – 16” circular and DPNs. Tools include a yarn needle (for tucking in the ends) and cable needle. The gauge is pattern specific, so you'll need to do a gauge swatch when the pattern is released.

Knit Mittens / Gloves

The knit mittens/gloves will require approximately 200 yards of bulky weight yarn. You will also be using US 8 (5.0 mm) double pointed needles and 24" or larger circular needle (or size needed for gauge). You will also need a cable needle, yarn needle, stitch holder and stitch row counter. The recommended gauge is 16 stitches and 24 rows is 4” in stockinette.

The pattern will be released Friday, March 27th at a time TBA but it will be an evening (CST) release. When I can commit to a definite time, I will post the exact release time in the ravelry thread.

Europe Meet!!!!

2009-03-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

We're here! Check out my blog for updates on what we are doing! First post is there now!

St. Patrick's Treasure Hunt

2009-03-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

It's time for a photo-scavenger hunt! I know it's just after St. Patrick's Day, but leprechauns are year-round, right? I'd like to invite all 4 Houses to participate in this fun scavenger hunt. Here's your lucky list!

cloak
cup (as in Helga Hufflepuff's cup)
devil's snare
diadem
diary
glass eye
gold
leprechaun
locket
owl
picture frame
pint of brew
scar
shamrock
snake
statue
stone
sword
tombstone
wand

You have until midnight PST on Sunday, March 29th.

Please post all pictures in one blog post on your own blog with labels and, if you so choose, descriptions!

Your originality marker must be visible in each picture. What's an originality marker, you ask? Something that's in every picture to show that you didn't just find the photos on the interwebs! I used my keychain, others have used a peacock feather, a toy animal, or even their thumb!

All participants will get a badge, and the overall winner will get a set of stitch markers from Bumblebirch. Oooh! Pretty!

Bonus points will be given for completeness, speed, and creativity. And if you cheat these leprechauns will eat you. Good luck!