Beanswallow's

Back from a magical journey

2009-04-22T12:36:00.002-04:00

Hey guys. I've been away for several days visiting family and friends. Nothing much to add since my kit has been mailed and received (and I'm still looking forward to receiving mine!). Thought a share with you the lovely gift I received from a very dear friend. Pretty special, huh? Most of my knitting has been given away. I'm really looking forward to making something very special for myself with this yarn.

Round Three

2009-04-14T18:36:00.004-04:00

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

2. Which “Harry Potter” character’s first name is the Roman equivalent of the Greed Goddess Athena?
c. McGonagall

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

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?
c. Viktor

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

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

7. What was NOT one of the unexpected defense mechanisms that Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Griphook encountered in their attempt to rob Gringotts?
d. The Geminio Curse

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

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

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

Picture Hunt
George

McGonagall

Patil

My Very Wonderful RAOK

2009-04-09T18:11:00.004-04:00

Miss Winifred Hornswaggle aka angel101580 sent me this lovely package. The lanolin hand balm is scented with orange, clove and cinnamon (some of my favorite smells!), a pair of delicate "no snag" stitch markers and a package of note cards featuring sock yarn. I especially appreciate that every items is from an etsy seller. Supporting entrepreneurs and artists is a big thing with me. Thanks you so much. Truly, it is if you knew me. Couldn't have been more perfect.

A Foodie Rockstar

2009-04-08T22:08:00.003-04:00

True story.

This week I met the man who invented tiramisu. And he took me into the kitchen of his bakery! Seriously, if I were a squee-er I'd be sqeeing my little cold, black Slytherin heart out.

Here's the back story. A few weeks ago I found this adorable little Italian bakery that is really off the beaten path. You can tell the place is relatively new, but it is very homey and the pastry case is to die for! I've been telling people about it and have gone in a couple of time. I was extolling the virtues of the place to a grad student from Hopkins and he googled it on his cell phone, but found it listed under a different address. When I got home I checked the website to make sure I'd been giving people the correct address and while I was there I checked out the media tab.

So on my next visit I introduced myself to Bruna, Carminantonio's wife and asked if he was still baking. She assured me he was in the kitchen making the Easter breads. Several minutes later, as I was sipping my cappuccino, he came out to introduce himself and say hello.

I swear I would not have been any more impressed if it were Emeril or Martha Stewart! A very unassuming man, we chatted for a few minutes about the baked goods and holiday baking, then he invited back into the kitchen.

Did you get that? He invited me back into the kitchen!

Stand mixers that I could bath in, stainless steel tables as far as the eye could see and a walk-in oven. We kibitzed a bit about the difference between panettone (Christmas bread) and pani pasquali (Easter bread) (mostly it's just in the shaping) as he nibbled the proofed raw dough. I told him of my love for Fiori di Sicilia (literally "the flowers of Sicily" - a flavor extract of orange and vanilla) and he flourished his own orange extract under my nose.

Easter is this coming Sunday. And although I am not a Christian, Friday I plan another visit to Piedigrotta to get one of those fragrant, raisin-studded, cross-shaped loaves. Sunday morning I will have it toasted with a schmear of fresh butter and a cup of my own house coffee and no doubt feel the promise of spring.

Oh Crap!

2009-04-02T14:24:00.002-04:00

Hester is missing! I've checked with Cass, Crucio and the babies and she's not there. I thought for certain she was off visiting friends and family - she so loves to travel. I'm practically heartsick.

I can't stay home looking for her as I have a package ready to ship of to Felly and must get to the owlery today. There's one more little thing to stuff into the aleady overfull box, I'm off to hire a professional courier. With the weight of this box, my little Buzzard would drop dead over Kansas and never make it to Oregon.

A post

2009-03-26T13:13:00.004-04:00

Today I am not at "Beanswallows" and have s bit of running around to do. My spoilee's kit is almost finished. There is an item I ordered that is taking its sweet time getting here. I am very pleased with her bag, found a great deal on a yarn/pattern set that exactly fits her very special needs.

There are also a couple of RAOK hitting the skies today!

In the meantime, I'm pretty sure I will be able to make it to the magical island to visit with Quinn and the crew (or should it be cru?) the last weekend of April.

House Quiz Results

2009-03-17T21:22:00.001-04:00

Fawkes
Black
Magical remedy
457 meters
Knitted cupcakes
St. Mungos
met Titus Pullo aka Ray Stevenson
Fire and Ice
One
Odin’s bird, Odin is considered the chief god in Norse paganism, the god of battle, magic, inspiration and the dead

By request - the new do

2009-03-16T21:59:00.003-04:00

Photo does not do the color justice. Dark chocolate brown underneath and red on top.

Quidditch Round 2

2009-03-16T13:32:00.006-04:00

Quote of the week
"I don't think death is kosher."
- Quinn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Picture Scavenger Hunt

Just a post. Nothing really new.

2009-03-13T11:43:00.002-04:00

Thanks for all the well wishes. My wrists are doing much better. My business partner worked especially hard this week to give me some extra time off - which is both appreciated and frustrating. For once I have spare time and I can't knit! Agh! I have been knitting for just a few minutes at a time, being careful not to overdo it.

Also got a great haircut this week, along with a new colorway. Dark chocolate brown underneath and a very hot red on top.

I've picked up a thing or two for my spoilee's kit this week. Am making a trip to a LYS today on her behalf and am pretty sure I can get this out in the "early send" window to make extra points for THE house.

In the infirmory

2009-03-06T22:27:00.002-05:00

Both hands in braces. Tendonitis has run amok. No knitting. No chopping. No lifting. One finger typing. Have been dictating my real life "Beanswallow's" blog to the staff. You can check it out here.

House Quiz No. 3

2009-02-25T21:48:00.004-05:00

1. Harry discovers in Regulus' room that he and Regulus have something uncommon and unexpected in common. What is this, and how did he figure it out?
Regulus had also attempted to destroy Voldemort's horcruzes.

2.On three occasions former professors can be presumed to have "visited" the trio while they are in "exile" - which professors and which occasions would these be?
Umbridge at the Ministry of Magic, Lupin at 12 Grimmauld and Phineas Black in the forest from the portrait of Hermione in her bag.

3. How do Ron and Harry get into the Ministry?
Changed their appearance with polyjuice potion.

4. Who is the blond-haired boy, and why is he important?
Grindelwald, stole the Elder Wand and was later defeated by Dumbledore who had possession of the wand until his death.

5. How is the exception that food cannot be conjured classified? It is an exception to Gamps' Law of Elemental Transfiguration. Food in hand can be multiplied but not created from nothing.

6. Where does the trio first run into Dean Thomas?
In the woods when he is on the run.

7. Bathilda Bagshot does not speak in front of Hermione and Ron because....
they would hear parsel tongue and know she was an imposter.

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

9. Which Horcruxes has Harry actually seen in person before the book starts?
Tom Riddle's Diary, the Resurrection Stone, Nagini and himself.

10. Who actually destroys each of the Horcruxes?
Dumbledore the resurrection stone
Harry the diary
Hermione distroyed Helga Hufflepuff's cup
Crabbe the Ravenclaw Diadem
Ron distroyed the Slytherin locket
Neville Longbottom killed Nagini
Harry was destroyed by Voldemorte

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

Quidditch Round 1

2009-02-19T10:54:00.004-05:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mad-Eye Moody

Nymphadora Tonks

George Weasley

The Dursley's House

Kreacher

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T21:27:00.002-05:00

So what is new in the hollow? Been working on the TKGA Master Hand Knitter's program. Have worked through 8 of 17 swatches. One of them is fine, several of the others need to be reworked. Also took advantage of Knit Pick's 40% book sale and got a number of the books recommended as reference material for the course. Also got some green and black yarn to make a Dark Mark Scarf. Let's see.....what else. Have been keeping a real-life cafe blog so customers have a place to check out our daily soups and specials. Some ponderings, but mostly a place to post specials.

Have been skulking about my spoilee's blog and such getting a vibe on her. Felly's a "special needs" knitter - poor thing is allergic to wool! I love a challenge! I've already stashed away a few little items in my treasure chest.

Can't go into any detail but I'm knitting something that Cass is knitting. Criptic, huh? I think she may be giving her thing to someone who may ready this so all I'm going to say is aghhhhhhh! seed stitch!

Slytherin House Quiz #2

2009-02-12T15:16:00.005-05:00

Voldemort on a pogo stick! I just almost posted this on the HSKS7 site. This is not funny......

1. Which housemate has an 11 ½ inch holly wand with a Dragon Heartstring core?
Bathilda Boomslang

2. Which housemate creates rockin’ sock patterns?
Emma Wigworthy

3. Which housemate has the hots for David Boreanez?
Queenie

4. Which housemate used to be the top badger who made a habit of eating snakes?
S. Quinn

5. Which housemate shows off her awards from HSKS6 on her blog?
M. Ferula Finnigan

6. Which housemate makes kicka* * cookies IRL?
Must be talking about me 'cause I haven't seen any cookies coming my way from anybody else!

7. Which housemate is a third year Slytherclaw, whatever the hell that means?
Callisto Verity

8. Which housemate wants Plymouth to make her feet happy?
Belladonna Boomslang

9. Which housemate is a knitting addict? (Ok, all of us, but one in particular.)
Lily of Flintwick

10. Which housemate loves to sing?
Cass Puddlemere

11. Which housemate has issues with muggle devices?
Ginny Crookshanks

12. Which housemate likes Darth HelloKitty?
Cecelia Fortescue

13. Which housemate has a member of the family with his own fan club?
Diana Lockhart

14. Which housemate has never-ending PMS?
Olivia Moody-Gaunt

15. Which housemate originally comes from South New Joisey?
Penelope Caerphilly

16. Which housemate “adores” European chocolates?
Clara Clovenhoof

17. Which housemate has a roommate who seriously put a crimp in her communication abilities?
Rowena Weasley

18. Which housemate was fortunate enough to lose her HP husband?
Lavender Diggory-Dolohov

19. Which housemate likes some Nascar dude?
Andromeda Finch-Fletchley

20. Which housemate needs a new time-turner?
Ophelia Crookshanks

I Won!

2009-02-07T11:12:00.002-05:00

I won the Slytherin House Quiz prize! Rumor has it that a lovely hank of Crazy4Dying Slytherin Sock Yarn is in flight. I'm pretty sure this is the sage, gray, muted colorway that I have been salivating over! See, wickedness does pay......

House Quiz

2009-02-02T00:20:00.003-05:00

What are your three most favorite colors? Purple, maroon, sage green (love the sage and purple combo)
What are you three least favorite colors? Yellow, orange and thing that looks unnatural.
Your favorite candy is dark chocolate. Diabetic and trying to be good, however, dark chocolate is "allowed".
Draco, Lucius, or Snape? Hands down, SNAPE.
Do you knit, crochet, or both? Both
What type of kit did you ask for? Seriously? I can't remember.
Acrylic—has its uses, should all be burned, best yarn to work with (choose one)? Well I'd say burn, but melt would be more accurate. I have used acrylic, but it would never be my first choice.
Who is the Slytherin Head Girl this term? Quinn thinks she is.
Name four “extras” you would love to receive in your kit. Something paper (post-its or a pad), a treasured family recipe, book my spoiler read and loved (passed along would be fine!) and an 8 gig iPod Touch.
What are your three most favorite scents? Patchoulli, eucalyptus, lavender.
Do you prefer salty or sweet snacks? salty
Which Slytherin is the Keeper of the Crucio List? Although everyone talks smack about it, I think my dear Ms. Puddlemere keeps the list.
Do you really need more stitch markers? Is it really about need? Honestly?
Dpns, circular, or straight? I'm bi-stitchual - dpns and circs.
What yarn makes you squee? None. I'm not a squee-er. However, I could get naked and roll around in a good smelling cellulose fiber.
Favorite HP Movie? The one that has not been released.
Favorite HP character? No one in particular. Do not like the Malfoys.
Who was your first choice for DADA professor? CENSORED
What is the Slytherin Common Room called? The Pit
What makes you worthy of being in Slytherin House? Puleez. This a quiz, not my damn life's story.

A new term and I'm taking extra classes!

2009-01-27T17:20:00.004-05:00

Well it has been almost two months since my last post. Life at Beanswallow's continues to keep me busy and, as if that were not enough, I have decide to do The Knitting Guild Association's Master Knitters program. It is a freakishly detailed research and a critical examination of knitting skills that is accomplished in three parts. Level one involves 16 swatches, 17 questions, a report on blocking and the care of knits as well as a completed project - a multi-colored hat. The program get progressively more challenging. The second and third levels cover color work, pattern design, detailed cabling, argyle, etc. By the time the program is complete, you should be able to handle whatever knitting can throw at you!

My Spoilee's Bag

2008-12-02T13:21:00.002-05:00

Thought I'd post a pic of the bag I made for Clidonia Acromantula. She's a 'puff, but a 'puff with some razzle dazzle, if ya know what I mean. She likes the color! Come to think of it, after spoiling Clidonia and actually meeting the fabulous Ms. Lav A, 'puff-baiting just doesn't have the same entertainment value it once did (see yummy 'puff recipes from previous posts). If I come back next term I might just have to pick on the Kitty Cats (or maybe the faculty!).

HSKS6 Package

2008-11-22T18:44:00.003-05:00

I received a lovely package from Suzie Weasley. It included a felted scarf pattern, several skeins of Knit Picks yarn and the new Harmony straight needles, a crochet hook, monkey tape measure, bookmark, stitch markers and chocolate. Not included in the photo is a felted bowl which is already in service!

I have been remiss....

2008-11-13T19:52:00.003-05:00

Can't believe it has been two weeks since I posted. Sorry guys.

Round Three

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Mrs. Weasley offers Fleur a goblin-made tiara for the wedding with Bill. What family member is currently in possession of the tiara?
a. Aunt Muriel

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

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

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

All Hallows Eve

2008-10-31T11:13:00.003-04:00

Last year my business partner and I decided to dress up for Halloween at the cafe. Remember Alice, the television sitcom about Mel's Diner? I went as Flo ("kiss mah gritz!") and Michael dressed as Dead Mel. Sooner or later one of those ditsy women would have done him in, right? Our customers loved it!

The Coming of Stitches Witches

2008-10-20T09:02:00.002-04:00

The real news is that a number of HSKS participants will be flying into Baltimore for Stitches East! Everyone is meeting up at Queen Frysia's castle for a weekend of friends, fiber, fun and food! I spent most of this weekend working on something for a secret gift exchange that QF's son graciously coordinated.

Most of last week was spent in the kitchen and so not much else was accomplished. This week the Cambridge Jacket needs to be blocked and sewn together. Must also keep an eye on swap deadlines.

Quidditch Round Two

2008-10-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Slytherin Homework #3

2008-10-10T20:37:00.002-04:00

Well the question is about Chapter 10....

Harry's first encounter with Tom Riddle's diary gives insight to Voldermort's formative years. His parent's loveless marriage, his mother manipulating his father and the father's eventual abandonment are disclosed. It is also the chapter in which two future horcruxes - Slytherin's locket and the Peverell ring - are introduced. Now off to work on my kit......

Slytherin Quiz

2008-09-30T20:50:00.003-04:00

Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, about a size 9W. Length: 9.25 inches Around: 9-9.25

Do you have a yarn winder and/or a swift? Both

Where/how to you keep you needles/hooks? Worm binder, really.

Do you collect anything? Does dust count? Not really, although I do have hundreds of cookbooks.

What is your favorite type of music? Are you MP3 ready?
No favorite kind of music and I own an iPod

Do you like sweets? What are your favorites?
Yes, although I'm trying to keep it to dark chocolate these days.

What is your living situation like? Any pets? Children?
Live with a friend. No pets. No children.

Do you have an online wish list (Amazon, Etsy, Loopy Ewe, etc.)? Please include links for your swap pal. I will set up an Etsy wish list and update this post when I do.

Favorite Harry Potter movie character? Don't have one.

Quiddich Round One

2008-09-24T15:27:00.003-04:00

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

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

3. What time does Professor Dumbledore collect Harry from Privet Drive?
b. 11 p.m.

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

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

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

7. What is Professor Sprout’s first name?
d. Pomona

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

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

10. What is Snape’s mother’s name?
b. Eileen Prince

There will be no after...

2008-09-24T14:47:00.001-04:00

...cause this is a mess! The only thing that is right is the color - purple. Yep I "highlighted" my hair with vibrant purple streaks. But the cut? A stringy mop. Giving it a couple days then calling the culprit for a re-do.

The Before Picture

2008-09-23T09:11:00.003-04:00

I'm going in for a major hair-do today. Cross your fingers it isn't a hair don't! Be warned, I don't do the hair thing often, when I do it is usually dramatic.

Here's the before:

Beanswallow FAQ

2008-09-14T10:17:00.004-04:00

Potter Name: Esmerelda "Esme" Beanswallow
Rav ID: CarmaFrancie
I am allergic to: nothing (maybe the metal nickel)
Pets that I have: none currently
My favorite yarn: Really? The one I just discovered - whatever that happens to be.
If you are a Ravenclaw, do you prefer the film colors or the book colors?
I was before I realized that yes, in fact, I am the center of the universe and went Slytherin.
My favorite flavor: too hard to call. Good coffee, dark chocolate, grapefruit (citrus in general), ginger and clove.
My favorite holiday: Thanksgiving
I would like to receive a scarf kit, I think, but am open to bag.
List your favorite brand of needles or hooks, including size and length: I really have all the knitting needles I need, but would love to get more Addi crochet hooks. The only one I have is 5,5 (US I) BTW, the scarf does not need to be a crochet pattern.
Is there a brand that you are dying to try?: See above.
I’ve participated in HSKS: this is #3
Do you have a birthday during this swap? No

Homework Already!

2008-09-13T17:30:00.002-04:00

1. Do you knit and/or crochet
Both

2. How long have you been at your craft?
Crochet since childhood (and I'm NOT being more specific). Knitting for about 3 years.

3. Do you spin?
I have a Turkish drop spindle, but have not learned how to use it!

4. What type of spinning do you do (drop spindle or wheel)?
See above.

5. Are there any other crafts that you participate in? The only thing I can think of that I haven't done is tatting. Quilting, sewing, and textile design/dyeing are probably my strongest craftastic skills.

6. What are your favorite yarns/fibers?
Wool, bamboo, linen and hemp.

7. What are your LEAST favorite yarns/fibers?
Acrylics and wools that are very course and fuzzy.

8. Are there any types/brands of yarn that you are dying to work with but haven’t gotten a chance? Not that I can think of.

9. What are your favorite types of projects to knit/crochet? bags and small accessories like mittens, scarves and hats.

10. What are you currently working on?
I still need to finish lining my Doctor's Bag. Just ordered yarn to start the Cambridge Jacket for a Christmas present.

11. Anything you plan to start this autumn?
Afore mentioned jacket. Lots of presents and swap related stuff.

12. What is your favorite Finished Object? The Jughead Hat I made for a friend. Not because it was the fanciest or best yarn, but because it was so perfectly him and he loved it.

13. Are their any knitting/crochet techniques that you would like to learn? Two hand stranded knitting.

2008-09-11T16:43:00.003-04:00

Your result for The Harry Potter Husband Test...

Mrs. Bill Weasley

Your perfect HP man is Bill Weasley.

You like guys who are cool. And not cool in that fake, dicky way, but actually cool. He's so cool that they couldn't find any actor to adequately portray him, so they decided to just leave him out of the movies rather than risk not doing justice to his coolness. He's like the Chuck Norris of Harry Potter: plain freaking awesome. When Voldemort says "You-Know-Who", he's talking about Bill Weasley.

(Fanarty by The Starhorse http://the-starhorse.deviantart.com/ Used with permission.)

Take The Harry Potter Husband Test at HelloQuizzy

PRIZE YARN!!!

2008-09-11T16:16:00.003-04:00

What a loverly surprise I received today. Two packages swooped into the Cafe late this afternoon and one of them was this beautious hank of yarn I won for the kit I assembled for HSKS5. A sweet treat and very lovely card accompanied. What was in the other package? Well that's a surprise for someone at Hogwarts, so I'm not tellin'.

Winding up for another term

2008-09-10T15:38:00.003-04:00

So it's on! HSKS 6 is underway. New Head Girl Lavender Diggory-Dolohov is already prowling the halls looking to make trouble for those goodie-too shoes from Gryffindor. I'm trying to figure out how to enchant the paintings so that she can have eyes everywhere!

I've been thinking a bit about my, as yet unassigned, swap partner. The last two swaps I've had a Ravenclaw. This time I'm hoping for a 'Puff. It would bee fun to sting someone with little surprises and set them buzzing.......

I Customized A Harmony #10

2008-07-25T10:43:00.008-04:00

So I just went all MacGyver on a Harmony #10 and am thrilled with the results. I’m finishing up the Doctor’s Bag from Knit2Together (of the "Seeking Public Accountability" thread). All the seams are finished by picking up around the pieces then grafted. It makes a really nice finished edge, but it means picking up a couple hundred stitches (and it is knit double-strand). So I’m picking up with a crochet hook and transfering the stitches off the back end of the crochet hook to a KP Harmony needle - one needle on a cable with a “stop” on the other end. And I think, “an interchangeable crochet hook end would be so cool.” Then I pull out the Dremel tool and ……

For which I was awarded a Level Three MacGyver Knitting Scout badge by fellow Ravalier Telcontar.

Emma Scrimgeour is a Spoiled Witch!

2008-07-16T21:39:00.011-04:00

... who doesn't have a camera. So at the risk of tooting my own horn here are the pictures.

Quidditch - Round Three

2008-07-16T21:07:00.007-04:00

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

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

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

4. What is the name of the witch who was killed two weeks after the photo of the original Order of the Phoenix was taken?
b. Marlene McKinnon

5. Which two fifth year Ravenclaw students does Dumbledore choose to be prefects?
d. Anthony Goldstein and Padma Patil

6. Which house was Rose Zeller sorted into?
d. Hufflepuff

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

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

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

10. Which book did Harry give Hermione for Christmas?
a. "New Theory of Numberology"

Bonus point: What movie will Robert Patterson (Pattinson?) star in this December?
Twilight

Spoiled Times Two!

2008-07-08T08:37:00.005-04:00

A special priority owl swooped into Beanswallow's yesterday carrying a large and very flat package. What in the world could it be? Turns out it was a lovely pair of sock blockers (made by Jalanna Kedavra herself), some dandy candy - homemade caramel and some Jelly Beans, lovely note cards and a precious little parcel of lavender from Jalanna's garden. Thank you so much, it is all wonderful and I'm sure to enjoy using (and eating!) it all.

Done, but no proof :-(

2008-07-03T08:47:00.002-04:00

So my spoilee's handmade item is finished (and it is ::sqee:: lovely! However, I left my camera at a little league game and it went home with the sister-in-law. Trying to figure out how to get a picture to the Headmistress before midnight! I tried to tell the Slytherin Prefect that the dog ate my homework and she didn't buy it......

War Path

2008-06-28T15:40:00.002-04:00

Someone's in trouble! Mrs. Wartbobble and Prefect Moody are both beating the drums. Blog, little witches, blog.

Quidditch - Round Two.1

2008-06-24T07:14:00.002-04:00

'Fraid I got a nasty head cold during our last bought of quidditch and will have to sit this one out. Hang on to those brooms and SSSSSSSSSSSSSoar Slytherin!

Quidditch - Round Two

2008-06-18T13:10:00.004-04:00

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

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

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

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

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

6. Who are the members of the Order that met Harry Potter in the Dursely’s house during the summer before his fifth year?
c. Alastor Moody, Nymphadora Tonks, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Elphias Doge, Dedalus Diggle, Remus Lupin, Emmeline Vance, Sturgis Podmore, Hestia Jones

7. Moody used the Disillusionment Charm on Harry.
a. Yes

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

9. At what age did Sirius leave his home?
16

10. How many of the original Order members were killed (don’t include those who disappeared)?
b. 8

Post Card from Jolanna

2008-06-16T12:25:00.002-04:00

Look what arrived by owl this morning! Jolanna informs me this is the Muskingum River, the largest river in Ohio. She also informed me more goodies were on the way! I love goodies........

I was RAOK'd!

2008-06-15T00:15:00.002-04:00

How fabulous are these Shrimp Stitch markers and the Golden Snitch tape? Thank you Lavender Ackerly! Big WET SLOPPY KISSES!

My First Mini Sock

2008-06-11T13:44:00.003-04:00

Well I didn't get a picture of it, but my first mini sock is winging its way to Oregon. It is Slytherin green with silver grey stripes and I tucked it inside a little present, accompanied by another little present which is a pattern for something inside something else. Confused? Maybe someone from Slytherin will blog an explanation.

In the pre-dawn mist....

2008-06-04T17:15:00.007-04:00

Believe, my friends and classmates, this is a true story. Twice I have meet magic in the hour before dawn, this is a story of the first. In 1982 I was entering my sophomore year at Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Having spent most of the night in my studio space in the fine arts building, I needed to stretch my legs and pick up a pack a cigarettes. The nearest source of smokes - a vending machine at the Fair Oaks Motel - was just two blocks from school. The weather was chilly and moist, a heavy fog lay like cotton candy and swirled around my legs as I walked.

MCAD, The Children's Theater Company and the Minneapolis Institute of Art form an aesthetic triangle on the south side of town and the MIA stoop seemed a good place to have a quiet smoke. As I finished, dawn began to arrive. A soft pink glow infused the vapor as I turned the corner. Standing quit clearly in front of the Children's Theatre was a unicorn. Looking at me as I looked at him, clearly neither of us expecting the other. I was to find this small, cream colored beast was know to his friends as Lancelot. A single, straight horn grew from above his brow ridge directly in the center of his forehead. His companion (whose name is lost to time) informed me they had arrived earlier than expected to an event being held at the Theatre. After hanging out for a bit on a grassy bit of lawn, the man went over to the motel for a cup of coffee and Lancelot and I shared a cigarette. Of course I smoked mine; he ate his.

After going home and getting some sleep, I awoke wondering if the chance meeting could have been a dream. It seemed almost certainly a product of paint fumes and exhaustion. Until I opened my Camel's and found one single, wavy, golden, wiry hair.

HSKS 5 Bag Arrived!

2008-06-02T20:39:00.001-04:00

hsks5,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

Thanks Jalanna Kedavra. Clockwise: the bag, wool wash, yarn, sock pattern, lined journal and post-it stickers.

Quidditch Round One

2008-05-28T11:46:00.005-04:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Why is Mundungus Fletcher disguised as a woman when he witnesses the DA (Dumbledore's Army) meeting in the Hog's Head pub?
He was banned from the Hog’s Head pub 20 years ago.

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

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

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

My First Scarf

2008-05-25T13:49:00.004-04:00

So my friend muggle friend Neville and I are going to learn how to knit, right? So we go to the LYS and I buy a lovely skein of Manos, a ball of black mohair and a bee-u-tiful pair of Lantern Moon US #17 needles. Before I had gotten 8 inches, Neville was finished! So I took what remained of his primarily red Manos and incorporated it into my scarf as a stripe! I knew I wanted a long scarf...... Well, I ran out of the black Manos and got another ball. THEN I ran out of the mohair and got another ball. THEN I ran out of Manos AGAIN! Got another ball. Notice a pattern? Same problem with cheese and crackers! Anyway, I got my long scarf (better than ten feet!) - and here are pictures to prove it!

First House Quiz

2008-05-21T10:57:00.001-04:00

1. How many goal posts are on the Quidditch Pitch?
Six

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

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

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

5. What was the name of the Squib who came to Harry's side after the attack?
Miss Figg

6. What position was Percy promoted to that made him have a 'row' with Mr. Weasley?
Jr. Asst. to the Minister

7. What secret does Hermione know about Rita Skeeter?
She is an animagus

8. Name one person other than Sirius Black who was scratched off of the Family tree wall?
Cedrella, who 'married Septimus Weasley'. She was struck off just for marrying a blood traitor Weasley.

9. Who discovers the room of requirement?
Someone in need of it.

10. Where is the first DA meeting held?
Hog's Head Inn

Showing Slytherin Pride

2008-05-20T17:54:00.003-04:00

Green Little Piggies,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

This girl is rockin' the green and silver from head to TOES!

2008-05-18T15:35:00.009-04:00

What Carma Means

You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily.

You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind.

A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.

You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.

You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated.

You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want.

You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way!

You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.

Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.

Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person.

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.

You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.

Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You are a seeker. You often find yourself restless - and you have a lot of questions about life.

You tend to travel often, to fairly random locations. You're most comfortable when you're far away from home.

You are quite passionate and easily tempted. Your impulses sometimes get you into trouble.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.

You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.

You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.

You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Whole lotta talkin' goin' on!

2008-05-15T10:26:00.005-04:00

Well! Long letter this morning from my spoiler! Jalanna Kedavra sounds like a delightful woman. Bright, vital, a little athletic and she's got some Mallowsweet wine fermenting under her bed! My spoilee is Miss Emma Scrimgeour and she has some rather ::cough:: exotic pastimes - she's a belly dancer! Anyway, I haven't even signed up for classes yet. Got to get on the stick.......

Got my girl!

2008-05-11T20:15:00.003-04:00

So my spoilee this term is Emma Scrimgeour - naturally one of the Ravenclaw Emmas! I'm really looking forward to getting to know her and spoiling her rotten.

2008-05-09T17:54:00.002-04:00

The Bag

2008-05-02T15:55:00.001-04:00

bag,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

How fab is this bag?! I must admit to liking "grown up" looking things and this bag suits me to a T. Almost had to wrestle my playground companion to get the bag back!

The "Main" Yarn

2008-05-02T15:53:00.001-04:00

yarn,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

How funny is it that this beautiful hand-dyed yarn was born in Maryland, shipped to Utah, only to be put on a return owl to Baltimore! It is Crazy 4 Dyeing and my picture does not do it justice. Oh, the the stitch markers? The bronze color bits look like coffee beans...

Mini Me

2008-05-02T15:51:00.003-04:00

MiniMe,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

OK, how precious is this?! Cliodna Trelawney made it herself! And it looks just like ME! Funny thing is, Clio had no way of knowing my first real job was in a ceramic shop. Back in the 1970's I bet I painted about 100 owls, pheasants and Elvis busts!

Do I Smell Funny?

2008-05-02T15:48:00.001-04:00

goodies3,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

Cotton yarns and a crochet hook for a wash cloth (pattern in my binder), a scrubby and nice shower gel and lotion. Unfortunately, the sweet little candle holder for the tea lights was broken (poor Hoot must have dropped the package before he dropped dead).

A Coffee Theme

2008-05-02T15:45:00.001-04:00

goodies1,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

You should have smelled this package when I opened it! Coffee and vanilla - yum! The mug says "Mom always said beans were good for you".

Magical Fiber Arts

2008-05-02T15:43:00.001-04:00

magical fiber arts,
originally uploaded by Beanswallow.

A very cool note book that includes sock patterns (one called Ampersand - very cool for a former typesetter), legwarmers, a crochet Swiffer® cover, and other fun things.

Ooops! Sorry Lavender!

2008-05-02T11:59:00.002-04:00

I forgot! Lavender specifically asked for pictures of my goodies! Here you go, Lav.

Friends Were Impressed

2008-05-02T11:57:00.003-04:00

A whole lot of kids were playing there. But I didn't want to put their pictures on the web without parents okay.

Super Fabulous Package Received

2008-05-02T11:56:00.002-04:00

I went to the playground to open it.

R.I.P. Hoot Trelawney

2008-05-01T20:13:00.007-04:00

Today, while I was out shopping for Beanswallow's, Ottis our House Elf, called with some sad news. It seemed a beautiful little tawney owl was found crushed under a rather large parcel addressed to me.

Naturally, we took care of Hoot's mortal remains in a most dignified and solemn manner.

Then there was the package! I went to a lovely playground in the Beanswallow's neighborhood and pondered the old adage "good things are worth the wait".

Bathilda Got it!

2008-04-15T16:12:00.009-04:00

So my buddy Bathilda Boomslang got back from vacation and found her goodie box. I'm tickled she like it. In particular, I'm proud of the Snape t-shirt. There was some paint bleed, but I kinda like the "ghosting" quality. Other than her book of magical socks and a-g stitch markers, I included a crazy eyeball ink pen, some candies/chocolates, a sheep glass (and Pez dispenser), a notebook, adventurine (a green crystal said to promote healing) and other various do-dads collected along the way.

The Owl Has Flown

2008-04-08T06:43:00.002-04:00

...just hope the poor dear has been eating her Wheaties. That was some heavy package!

Finishing up the lining....

2008-03-28T17:30:00.002-04:00

..and the machine goes wonky! Criminy! Happily I am able to finish it up by hand. Much wrapping to do and off the thing goes!

The last quiz..sniff, sniff

2008-03-19T19:47:00.004-04:00

Who loves containers of all sorts?
ME!
Who dyed her fingers blue?
Ironically, Lavender
Who is related to William Shakespeare?
Celestina Cadagon
Who wants to own an alpaca farm?
Victoria Black
Who hates carrots?
Selina Starfire
Who is from the Muggle town of Bagshot in Surrey?
Patonga Pinkstone
Who was searching for radishes in the winter?
M. Ferula McGonagall
Who got a gift certificate to a LYS from a Slytherin boy for Valentine's Day?
That hussy Cecilia Kettleburn
Who discovered ghosts and house elves drinking tea in the Great Hall at midnight?
Ophelia Hopkirk
Who took an extra credit class called Muggle Fantasy Literature?
Selina Starflame
Who attended a Muggle music convention?
Patonga Wigworthy
Who taught herself to purl backwards?
Serafina Starfire (a natural contrarian!)
Who sports Ravenclaw Spirit socks?
Minerva Kwikspell
Who would like to work in Muggle Relations after graduation?
Allyitra Spelling
Whose Mum is named Henrietta?
Avada Fench Fletchley

Round Three

2008-03-13T06:33:00.007-04:00

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

2. What was the article Rita Skeeter wrote about Hagrid called?
c. Dumbledore's Giant Mistake

3. When the school champions were being chosen from the Goblet of Fire, whose name cam out first?
b. Viktor Krum

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

5. What kind of dragon did Cedirc have to face in the first task?
b. A Swedish Short-Snout

6. Who raised the trophy after winning the world cup?
b. Troy and Quigley

7. How many bedrooms did Mundungus Fletcher claim to have?
d. 12

8. For what did Moody mistake his birthday gift of a carriage clock?
b. A basilisk egg

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

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

How did I not see this until 4:31 pm est today?!

2008-03-08T16:32:00.002-05:00

1. Do my homework for me.

Elucify Intellectium
2. Tidy up my bedroom.

Tidius Miraculous
3. Make a delicious chocolate cake.

Eroticum Confectious
4. Make my professor stay in bed today.

Lectur Lazeosa (that's Lay-z-o-sah!)
5. I would like breakfast in bed, please.

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

Cleatcrete

7. Give everyone the giggles.

Girlish Gregarium

8. Dye some yarn in my favorite color.

Pigmentation Potion (This is a potion, not a charm. Trick question, huh?!)
9. Unravel the mess I've made with my yarn.

Tanglasificum
10. Knit my Prefect the perfect bag!

Perfectus Prefecta Parcelonius

What's in a name?

2008-03-08T08:25:00.002-05:00

So I'm going a bit "out of character" here, but am hoping to find some sympathy.

I don't want to "come out". Strange that a grown-ass woman has gotten attached to her fictitious persona, but there you have it. There are times when I "Esmie" in real life. Oh, well. All good things.......

This weekend I hope to finish the swap bag and whip of a batch of cockroach clusters and peppermint toads. Yummm!

T-Shirts and other HSKS4 Memorabilia

2008-03-05T13:25:00.003-05:00

Our time at Hogwarts is fast coming to a end and a number of us have bandied about the idea of House Shirts. Some of the more **cough** ribald members of our tower cry "Study hard, party harder", others favor a more sophisticated tone. I'd like to get some empirical data to share with the Prefect, Head Girl and Head Mistress. Please pop over and participate in the polls.

Edited to keep me out of muggle-style toilet scrubbing duty.

Ravenclaw Quiz

2008-02-25T19:38:00.003-05:00

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

VODKA! Veritaserum

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

An ass? Splinched

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

Miranda Goshawk

4. What is it called when brother wands meet?

Priori Incantatem

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

Sonorus Spell

6. For what is the charm Aparecium used?

Makes invisible ink visible

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

Fedelius Charm

8. What color should the Strengthening Potion be?

Dark Purple or as the Brits would say Aubergine

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

I, ah, don't know....Sneezewart, skurvy grass & lovage

10. What condition is cured by Glumbumble?

Hysteria

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

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

At the full moon

13. What color should a Shrinking Solution be?

Bright acid green

14. What potion is made from asphodel and wormwood?

The draught of living death

15. For what are Jobberknoll feathers used?

memory potions and truth serums

A wee bit of shopping...

2008-02-24T18:18:00.002-05:00

..got some lovely Maizy sock yarn (82% corn fiber) that reminds me of impatients - all spring green and various shades of pink. Also worked a bit on the buddy's bag. Another busy week ahead - hope everyone is safe & warm.

2008-02-18T20:20:00.006-05:00

Round 2: Ravenclaw Reporting

2008-02-18T19:53:00.004-05:00

1. With whom does Ginny go to the Yule Ball?
a. Neville

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

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

4. How old does the Quick Quotes Quill say that Rita Skeeter is?
a. 43

5. What color cloak is wormtail wearing in the Riddle house?
b. Black

6. What color is "Mad Eye" Moody's magical eye?
d. Blue

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

8. What does Sirius Black tell Harry, Ron and Hermione to call him when speaking around anyone else?
b. Snuffles

9. Which team beat Wales, disqualifying them from competing for the Quidditch World Cup?
c. Uganda

10. What does Madame Maxime say is the only thing her steeds will drink?
c. single-malt whiskey

U've ghat a berry bad cold

2008-02-16T23:27:00.002-05:00

My nose is all stuffed up and when I start sneezing it is sneeze hickups - in double or triples! Tomorrow is the big annual coffee efficiandos trade show and I simply must go. Then taking the Beanswallow's staff out for dinner. Big catering gigs on Monday and Wednesday. I could use some magical assistance!

Ravenclaw Homework

2008-02-12T19:06:00.000-05:00

1. What is Professor McGonnagall's first name?

Minerva

2. Who is the librarian of Hogwarts?

Madam Irma Pince

3. What is Madam Rosmerta's job?
Owner, Three Broomsticks

4. What is Rita Skeeter's secret?

She is an unregistered aminagus

5. Madam Hooch is instructor of what subject?

Broom flying

6. Who is Parvati Patil's best friend?

Lavender Brown

7. What Quidditch position does Cho Chang play?

Seeker

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

Gabriella

9. Who is professor of Divination?

Sibyll Trelawney (then the Centaur)

10. Who wrote "A History of Magic"?

Bathilda Bagshot

The Week That Was

2008-02-06T22:25:00.000-05:00

It has been a most trying week around here. A dear friend, somewhat of a local celebrity, has been unjustly terminated from his employment. The community is in an uproar, and as a result of our friendship, many are coming to me for "the scoop". So much emotion, so much very touching concern. I'm a bit on edge....

And did I mention I quit smoking this week? Yep, today is day 6. Will be stopping by Honeydukes for some snapping gum and fruit drops.

And what with all the money I'll be saving, maybe some yarn from the new shop in town!

Out Sick

2008-02-03T22:15:00.000-05:00

Will be away for a few days; let's just call it sick leave.

2008-01-30T21:58:00.000-05:00

Dark Mark

Quidditch Round One

2008-01-30T14:52:00.000-05:00

1. What was Harry dreaming about the first time he woke up with his scar on fire?

b. Voldemort and Wormtail plotting to kill him

2. What is the problem with leprechaun gold?
a. It vanishes after a few hours

3. Why did Mad-Eye Moody turn Malfoy into a ferret?
c. Malfoy attached Harry when Harry's back was turned

4. Sirius warns Harry to be careful around Karkaroff because he had been a Death Eater. Which one of the professors at Hogwarts, who also used to be a Death Eater, is frequently bothered by Karkaroff?
Snape

5. Voldemort could have used the blood from any foe to make the potion that revived him work, but he held out for Harry's blood. Why?
c. The special protection Harry received from his mother would also pass to Voldemort

6. How old would Frank have been on his next birthday?
d. 77

7. Amos Diggory works for?
b. The Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures

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

Neville

9. What date in October did the delegates from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang arrive?
a. 30th

10. What color were Percy's dress robes at the Yule Ball?
a. Navy Blue

Shhhhh, don't tell!

2008-01-23T22:37:00.000-05:00

I just couldn't wait. April 4th seems like such a looooong way away and my spoilee really needed a little spoiling now - so I sent her a teeny weenie, little itsy bitsy spoil. She deserves it, darn it!

Magic Middles

2008-01-22T11:46:00.000-05:00

As promised, here are Beanswallow's Magic Middle Cookies

Makes 26 small cookies or 12 large cookies

Bake 7-9 minutes for small; 9-12 for large

Preheat oven to 375°

Line with parchment or lightly grease 2 baking sheets

Dough

1 1/2 c unbleached all-purpose flour

1/2 c cocoa powder

1/2 t baking soda

1/4 t salt

1/2 c granular sugar (plus more for dipping)

1/2 c brown sugar

1/2 c butter, unsalted (or omit salt from recipe)

1/4 c smooth peanut butter

1 t vanilla extract

1 large egg

Magic Middle

3/4 c smooth peanut butter

3/4 c confectioners’ sugar

To make dough:

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In another medium bowl, beat together the sugars, butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and egg, beat to combine, then stir in the dry ingredients, blending well.

To make the filling: In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. With floured hands, rill the filling into 26 on inch balls (or 12 larger balls).

To shape the cookies:

Break off about 1 Tablespoon of the dough, make an indentation in the center with your finger, and press one of the peanut butter balls into the indentation. Bring the dough up and over the filling, pressing it closed; roll the cookie in the palm of your hand to smooth it out. repeat with remaining dough and centers.

Dip the top of each cookie in granulated sugar and place on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Grease the bottom of a drinking glass and use it to slightly flatten each cookie.

Bake the cookies for 7-9 minutes (or longer for larger cookies), until they are set. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes then move to wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Homework

2008-01-22T11:07:00.000-05:00

Phew! I hate word jumble tests. Hope I got this right (got a little help from my housemates). Am in a MAJOR quandary about my buddy's bag. And since I can't get help, will have to get it from my muggle friends. And frankly, I'm not really sure they understand...

1. RWIDZTAIR UANONETRMT

Triwizard Tournament

2. NRNAGIHAU RAHNIOTL

Hungarian Horntail

3. AEEMDY ONYOME
Madeye Moody

4. ARTI KEESTRE

Rita Skeeter (had a great-aunt Skeeter, wonder if we're related?)

5. ELSAUAEPBNKS
Unspeakables

6. ULSFENFS

Snuffles

7. NEPSVEIE

Pensieve

8. RMUEIIPS

Imperius

9. TREUEEBTBR

Butterbeer

10. ROFELIBT

Firebolt

Preferences and praddle

2008-01-18T19:32:00.000-05:00

What a busy week it has been! Homework and finishing up a few projects that had been promised prior to the swap have taken every available minute. Dropped by the Ravenclaw Common Room on Wednesday to check in with the housemates and had a great time. Much eating, drinking, and swapping of yarns (yuk, yuk).

Just in case my buddy has been wondering, thought I'd say a bit about myself. Although my physical body has continued to age, my internal age is about 35, I'd say. I tend toward the unique and generally poo-poo following the crowd or current trends. Several generations ago my folks raised flax for linen and I am predisposed toward natural fibers be they animal or plant.

And I love containers, vessels of all sorts. Boxes, bags, bowls - all delight me. One caution: I am a women of some - ummm - substance. If a bag is meant to be worn on the body, best the straps be long to accommodate my girth.

I have knitted several pairs of socks, but would not call myself a sock knitter. I still depend on patterns and written directions. And that extra voluptuousness make ankle socks a better bet than knee high (although I'd really like to be wearing thigh high stockings!) My feet spend lots of time in Birkenstocks so I can really show off some socks.

What fun the post swap pics will be! I'm a bit of an overachiever and hope to make my spoilee fairly swoon with delight.

House quiz

2008-01-14T22:10:00.000-05:00

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

Minerva Kwikspell - Eagle

Perpetua Pheonixfire - Eagle

Cassandra Hopkirk - Eagle

Patonga Pinkstone - Tiger (finally)

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

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

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

Fleur Lovegoods

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

Emma Diggory

5. Which Ravenclaw got the first howler?
Lavender Ackerly (first to admit it, anyway)

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

Minerva Kwikspell - Holly

Fleur Lovegood - Ebony

Gabriella Clearwater - Walnut

Elanor in Ravenclaw - Hawthorn

Perpetua Pheonixfire - Birch

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

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

Alright, it was me!

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

Patonga Pinkstone quotes part of it. Minerva Kwikspell has the who thing.

10. Which housemate has a Muggle cellular phone?

Victoria Black? Does a cellular broadband card count as a phone?

How do you know what you do not know?

2008-01-14T17:55:00.000-05:00

Pixie piss! It was me who was turned all along! CLASSES START NOW! Ahhhhhhh!

Time turning trouble

2008-01-14T16:32:00.000-05:00

Well! Can you believe it is another week before classes? I was so ready... quills, check; parchment, check; books, check; new wand (that I want to use soooo badly!), check. And then it is still a week away. I hope whoever is messing about knows what's what because timeturning can be a dangerous thing.

My friends Patonga and Penelope are both caught in the time disturbance - and I'm sure they are not the only ones! Is it today or is it next week? Was it today yesterday? Oh, my! It seems like forever that I've been preparing myself for Hogwarts. In the meantime, I'll join the other girls in the Inner House Knitabout.

Checking in...

2008-01-12T21:19:00.000-05:00

Mom and I made several large batches of applebutter today. Neville and I went to lunch and stopped by Sticks-n-Strings for a look see. He's starting a lovely Cobblestone jumper and I shopped yarn for a new bag.

PS: The Magic Middles were lovely! I'll bring a plate to our next chat and share the recipe.

Just a few more days of freedom

2008-01-11T21:29:00.000-05:00

As Head Mistress pointed out it is only a few more days until classes begin. A few of us are taking the opportunity to look around the place and have a little fun. Gabbie Clearwater, Fleur and a few others sat out on the lawn knitting socks for the house elves. They got a real kick out of running out with pumpkin juice and cookies just to see how they were coming along. Now that the little devils can wear new clothing they are becoming fashion conscious, of all things. You should have seen Ottis in pink hair rollers, an old Santa hat and a piece of 1970's green ripple afghan worn as a poncho!

Heading home for the weekend. The new chef, Havelock, has some idea about cookies with "magic" middles. We'll see.........

Still anxiously waiting ... and knitting.

2008-01-10T17:59:00.000-05:00

Still waiting for the owls to arrive. Some lovely needles and a new friend should arrive just about the same time.

Picked up my wand at Ollivanders, it's an 11 1/2 inch Maple wand with a Kelpie core! Mr. Ollivander said maple has a very positive energy that frequently used for love spells and divination. He also said this type of wand is drawn to people who have an appreciation for beautiful things. The Kelpie is a water demon that frequently takes the shape of a horse. Evidently, Kelpies have a fondness for Britton and Ireland.

Must rest now. Lots of homework already and my foreign exchange student friend from Primary School is coming by tomorrow morning. I'm meeting her in the Village at Sticks & Strings for some fiber fun!

Remind me to tell the story of Analisa, her troll and his big square feet. But that's for another day....

Late start to the day....

2008-01-09T11:54:00.000-05:00

Crap, crap, crap!!! I overslept this morning and was late for Divination. The Professor should have seen it coming - a sad, tired, worn out joke I'm sure. At least I didn't have to look into the blurry eyes of my Housemates who haven't been getting much sleep. For the first time in a week everyone got some sleep. The reason I overslept is my alarm glass was on the night table outside of the noise dampening charm I caste before going to bed.

I'm the snorer. Madam Pomfrey promised to keep it hush, hush and gave me a charm to put under my bed. Evidently, keeping the sound of my snoring in means keeping the sound of my alarm out. Tonight I'll try setting the glass at the foot of my bed.

Just in time too - we all need to be on our toes. Funny happenings around Hogwarts. Strange weather, owls disturbed, house elves are wringing their hats, and a potentially tragic romance is blooming.

Everyone knows sweet Petunia Acromantula from Hufflepuff has a terrible crush on Augustus Cauldwell. 'Gus is a nice guy but his father is very old school. The last part-muggle girl he dated disappeared during the winter holiday and never came back to Hogwarts. Prissy's family was vacationing in the woods at the foot of the hills where the Cauldwell's family castle is located. There was some talk about the disappearance happening when Mrs. Cauldwell and Gus were visiting relatives. Anyway, I hope the Hufflepuffs are watching her back....

Weather Most Fowl

2008-01-08T19:26:00.000-05:00

It is well past Winter Solstice here in the Northern Hemisphere and today it was 70° F! It is not right and though no one can put a finger on it, all know it does not bode well. Owls jumped back and forth between perches in the Owlery; a rank odor rolled through the halls downwind of the first year's potions class; and my robes are hot and scratchy. So I called Mum and she called the Head Mistress and she called the Prefect and I got permission to go into town for the afternoon!

Ran into Bella Shackleford at Madam Malkin's. I was looking at the Whopperwear temperature-adjusting robe and she was there with her dad. Bella and I picked out robes. Then Mr. Shackleford went over to Flourish & Blotts to pick up Bellas books, we darted over to Scribbulus Everchanging Inks to pick up quills, ink and parchment.

We stopped in Beanswallows and had a Broomaide 2000 sports drink. This weather is so unseasonable... and concerning.

Keeping out the draft

2008-01-07T17:21:00.001-05:00

Was late getting back to the the Tower last evening. My muggle friend Neville has been knitting on a scarf and naturally, when we knit together I use the muggle method. A lot of witches turn up their nose at this slow and inefficient technique. Truth be told, I like the feel of wool through my fingers and find it very satisfying. This morning everyone's abuzz about Minerva's new wooly socks! Ravenclaw Tower is cold and drafty, so fingerless gloves, slippers and cowls come in quite handy.

Before I came to school, I made these "artist's gloves". They take a precious little yarn and are perfect to indulge in luxury fibers like the natural silk and cashmere blend I used.

Unexpected visitors

2008-01-05T19:47:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to check in. I was up and in the kitchen this morning by 5:30 am. Ottis our free house-elf, and I made scones, cookies and started a big pot of soup all by 9:00 o'clock! Beanswallows has a "no food by magic" policy. Mom says the magic is the love we stir in by hand. And folks do line up! Fortunately, she has no problem with a little dishwashing charm. My foundling brother, Yohan and his Lady Megalinda came into Hogsmead for a little shopping and sightseeing. Ottis covered for me while Meg and I ducked out to our local yarn store. She bought a couple of lovely hanks while I chatted with some of the sit-n-knit regulars.

Mrs Giggory and Grompton stopped by for some mulled cider and cockroach clusters. That little small fry was so cute with chocolate smeared across his face. Megalinda keep slipping him sweets every time Mrs. Greggory left the room - he will probably we awake half the night.

Beanswallows is closed on Sunday, so hopefully tomorrow my scarf will grow by a couple of strips.

Tired and Happy at Hogwarts

2008-01-04T16:45:00.000-05:00

This year is going to be the best! I made my first friend at Hogwart’s.

Last night I meet the coolest girl in the Ravenclaw Common Room. Her name is Lavender and she’s a first year too. It had been a really long day and I was just hanging out by the fireplace doing a little knitting and a lot of fire gazing when she came over to ask about the knitting. Come to find out, she had needles and yarn in her trunk. Lavender had been knitting in her room but agreed it would be nice to stretch out by the fire with a cup of tea and have some company.

Lavender said she heard from her cousin Petunia that Hagrid saves and spins the hair that comes off that big drooling dog of his, Fluffy. Wonder what he does with the yarn? Who would want a big, scratchy dog hair jumper?

Classes are a LOT harder than I thought. The reading list for this term is OUTRAGEOUS. To keep my grades up there won’t be time to do anything fun. Hey I just got an idea, maybe we could spell our textbooks to read our lessons aloud while we knit!

I’m going home on weekends to help at the Coffeehouse and if we can get permission, Lavender’s going to come over some weekend. She seems a clever sort and has done a fair bit of traveling; I think she might have family that lives really far away.

So with new friends, lots of school work and weekends at home I’ve got to juggle.

Oh,yeah. I passed Helga in the Great Hall and we grumbled at each other. If she leaves me alone, I’ll leave her alone. If I can just get through this first term without getting thrown out...

PS Her ears look just fine.....

We all have a past

2008-01-03T12:25:00.000-05:00

Frankly, I wasn't sure they were going to accept my application. I got myself into a little scrape at my last school. Nothing sinister, mind you, just an imaginative, under-challenged young witch with too much time on her hands. I say if you act like an ass you shouldn't mind looking like an ass.

And those colorful footprint running up and down the stairways? I had nothing to do with that. In fact I noticed that under Cassandra Grumlepant's robes her feet were blue and Ophilia Pussyfoot's were orange! They spelled their feet!

I've known those two since Primary School and they were always causing trouble and letting other people take the blame. If it hadn't been for the S.M.A.R.T.S. (Superb Marks And Really Talented Student) designation, I might not have made it into Hogwarts.

Cassandra and Ophelia saw the whole asinine incident and knew Helga had started it, but those two goodie-two-shoes never said a word! I got a week's suspension and missed dragon flying camp.

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know. If you've heard rumors about me they were greatly exaggerated; most of that stuff I can explain. And watch out for those too-good-to-be-true Gryffindors. What they're really good at is not getting caught!

A New Year and already so much to be thankful for....

2008-01-02T15:47:00.000-05:00

A very generous spirit must be a Hufflepuff characteristic because Miss Mandy Finch-Fletchley graciously offered instructions for making the HSKS4 logo a hot link. And how exciting that so many are joining the ranks!

Frankly, I'm not sure I can wait. We will have to come up with a way to keep from getting into mischief. I threatened Headmistress Wartwobble with sneezing dust in her face powder when the sign-up didn't appear at midnight eastern standard time and that was before the real waiting began!

I've been wanted to try lace and an Invisibility Shawl might be just the thing. It would keep my hands busy and when the project was done...who knows what mischief I could manage!