HSKS 4

HSKS 5 Quidditch Round One ~ Second Clue

2008-05-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

Round and round you go
Where you stop only
The blog of one with the same name as the
great granddaughter of Pheneas Nigellus knows

An Amazing Gift!

2008-05-09T18:18:00.001-07:00

This afternoon I received a truly amazing package from a very tired owl. I am speechless - there are just no words that can tell my wonderful Ravenclaw Sisters how much I appreciate how truly wonderful they are. I am so touched by what you have done.

Here's just the beginning...see the rest on my blog.

Thank you Neila, Lavender Ackerly, Esmie, Sera Starfire, Emma Wigworthy, Avada Finch-Fletchley, Ophelia Hopkirk and Centy! I'm sorry if I'm forgetting anyone. I'm truly overwhelmed!

A Life Given in Service

2008-05-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

Ol' Hoot may have gone to that great owlery in the sky, but look at what I got! Cliodna Trelawney really out did herself! You must go to my blog or Flickr page because it is outrageous! I'll just tease you with the "before" picture....

Thank you Fleur Lovegoods!

2008-05-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

I received a wonderful quidditch prize today. It is some noro yarn (i think it is sock yarn) that has some vibrant colors and some awesome texture. :) Thank you Fleur! you are awesome!

Lily Durmstrang

Lily Durmstrang is the best!!!!

2008-04-28T18:18:00.002-07:00

Come check out my most wonderful swap package I recieved today. Lily you did such a wonderful job, I am thrilled beyond belief I can't wait to use the sock yarn it is all so yummy. I adore the treasure box and all the little goodies inside. The stitch markers are FABULOUS! I am one very happy Ravenclaw!!!! Thank you so, so much. More pictures are up on my blog

Still Waiting Patiently

2008-04-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

I'm still waiting for my Sock Kit to arrive. Hopefully the poor owl didn't get lost.

Lavender Kedavra

Yea! Its here!

2008-04-28T06:18:00.001-07:00

Yea! I received late last week but my camera got a nasty case of magical maladies and I got it back last night. So I made a post to the blog this morning with the AWESOMENESS from Allitrya Spelling.

Here's a sample:

My kit's here! MY KIT'S HERE!!!

2008-04-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

Ohboyohboyohboy! My kit made it!! Check out my blog to see what the lovely and oh-so-talented Perenelle Ballycastle whipped up for me! She truly is the best swap partner ever!
Thank you Perenelle, you rock!!

Emma Diggory...

2008-04-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

Ulrich the owl was sleeping peaceful in his nest this morning in the giant oak tree at number 15 Eastgate drive. He was awoken (rather forcefully, so he wouldn't go back to sleep) early this morning to start heading for the northeast corner of the US. I hope he makes is swiftly and with everything in tact. I hope you enjoy your knit kit and let me know as soon as you get it...

I can hardly wait!!

:) Lily Durmstrang

Sock Kit Received!

2008-04-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

My kit arrived in the post today and all I can say is
THANK YOU CAPELLA MONOCEROS!!!

How awesome is this? Full details here.

Here's the overall shot:

Thank you Enid Black!

2008-04-23T20:12:00.001-07:00

My swap kit from Enid Black arrived today. Pictures are posted here.

Thank you Enid!

Blanket Pictures

2008-04-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings housemates. I have finally posted the pictures from the blanket seaming process on my flickr account, feel free to check them out.

Flickr

I just wanted to thank everyone who contributed to the blanket effort. It was a lot of fun getting mystery squares in the mail, and I appreciated all the nice notes you included with your packages. I am very proud to have been part of such a wonderful effort, and you are all very talent witches (and wizards)! Emma

Package Received!

2008-04-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

An owl dropped off a package for me yesterday, it was so tired it flew from the East Coast of the US all the way to the West Coast of Canada! The poor tired owl belonged to Neila! Thanks so much Neila, I loved everything. She spoilt me rotten with lots of sweets and dragons! For pictures see check out my blog.

Thank You Cassandra Black!

2008-04-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

A very tired owl from Canada arrived today with a package from my swap partner! Take a look at my blog to see pictures of everything!

MY BLOG

Thank you!

2008-04-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

A Huge thank you to Emma Wigworthy and Ferula Vector, both of Ravenclaw, for the wonderful prizes they sent me. Come visit my blog and have a peek at the wonderful things they sent.

My Blog

Thank You Victoria Black!

2008-04-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

I received a wonderful owl yesterday that smacked the window of our new home. I don't think he realized that he needed to come in through the elevator as our windows don't open.

I couldn't wait to rip open the box. What a fantastic surprise, but a kit from Victoria Black. I apologize that I don't have my camera to take photos of it. It will be along with Mr. Crookshanks when he joins us once the packers are done relocating our house. I will then try to get photos up on my blog.

The pattern that Victoria chose is quite the challenge but I think I am worthy of the trial. I cannot wait to get started on them. You can view it on the wonderful site of ravelry under "Chuck's Cabled Socks."

I look forward to showing them off soon. Thanks again.

Discount for swappers

2008-04-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hello magical friends! Some of you may have noticed that I have now added two House sock designs to my Ravelry store .Please if you decide to buy one let me know you're a HSKS swapper and your paypal email so that I can give you a 10% refund! I do apologise for not knowing how else to manage the discount -I'm very new to all this!

Delighted to see that the headmistress has now got her blanket - it comes with our fondest love Winnie!

OH MY GOSH!!!

2008-04-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

I can't say anymore because I'm running out the door to take my daughter to softball practice, but OM MY GOSH!!! Neila!! I can't believe you held it in yesterday! I am truly amazed. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!

I was feeling rather in the dumps today. I was hoping to get something in the mail besides bills, and OH MY GOSH! I'll have to share more pictures with my crappy camera later :)

UPDATE:

I'm back! Let list the awesomeness in the package. Of course, the absolutely GORGEOUS lap blanket the I will TREASURE for the REST OF MY LIFE!!!! Then there are four different types of loose leaf teas and a diffuser (I think that is what it is called). Last, but not least I also received a skein of Bellatrix yarn from Faery Fiber.

Prefects Wanted - Updated: All Positions Filled

2008-04-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all! All prefect positions for the HSKS 5 term have been filled.

Meeting of the Minds

2008-04-20T21:39:00.001-07:00

Today was awesome! Neila was out visiting her daughter, so she and I met in Pasadena, CA, to talk HSKS. We came up with some great ideas to incorporate into the next swap. Everything will be revealed in about a week, but think Dueling Club and Dumbledore's Army!

An Owl Delivered My Package Yesterday :)

2008-04-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

I just received a beautiful package from Helga Lovegoods. For pictures of the goodies and details, please see my page.

Thanks again Helga!

Revealio...

2008-04-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

The swap is over and I've something to reveal to all of you
HERE

(I'm not sure if that is the right spell for revealing what is hidden. The HP_Lexicon just isn't running today, so I guessed.)

Cassandra Puddlemere, you rock!

2008-04-19T09:16:00.001-07:00

There's an owl coming your way! But, oh, I'm so silly and forgot to enclose the card! Anyway, you'll be receiving a package which contains your prize for "Best Swap Package" - and it WAS quite a swap package! I'll send the card under separate cover. Be on the lookout for a north-bound owl named Pickles, he's coming from NJ and he's got a special surprise for you. Hope you like it, think Gryffindor Scarlet...

That is all I am saying.

2008-04-18T12:59:00.001-07:00

Mishief Managed!

Ravenclaw Riddle Winner!!

2008-04-18T05:53:00.001-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS

to the Ravenclaw Riddle Winner for HSKS4
which is none other than

CECILIA KETTLEBURN

Well done Cecilia!!
Official Riddle Standings will be posted later today to "The Roost".

Semester Break

2008-04-17T17:45:00.000-07:00

Well I wanted to tell you all what a great time I had and hope to see you next time. Hope you all had as much fun as I did and want to send a Good Job to our head mistress. I appreciate all the hard work you and all the prefects put into our swap!

The Most Fabulous Swap Package Ever

2008-04-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

Celestina Cadogan has sent me the best swap package ever. See for yourselves. The bag is so cute. I love the design. The goodies she enclosed are so numerous: a pair of lantern moon dp needles (can't wait to try them out on the sock pattern she enclosed), FOUR skein of knit picks wool yarn, silver stitch markers that she made herself (she even learned to make stitch markers for this swap), yummy Pockys (a delicious chocolate crunchy treat), and Bertie Bott's Beans (okay, these aren't so yummy, but they are great fun to darn your friends or sweetie to eat). I love everything you sent. Thank you for being so generous and making my day.

Matlida Durmstrang

Daily Prophet, Issue 34

2008-04-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

It's so nice to see the owls pouring in with such awesome packages!! Here's our status today of packages not sent:

Gryffindor
Will be sending before week's end
Fleur Bloomfleet
Hermione Phoenixfire

Hufflepuff
Not sure of send date, please email
Petunia Acromantula

Ravenclaw
Will be sending before week's end
Enid Black
Fern Fiddlewithers

Hasn't contacted us
Victoria Black

Slytherin
Will be sending before week's end
Emma Dumbledore

Hasn't contacted us
Olive Broomfleet

Kit Pictures!

2008-04-17T03:32:00.000-07:00

I have posted pictures on my blog...

Perpetua Phoenixfire's Owl is Off!

2008-04-16T19:12:00.000-07:00

I've finally sent off Perpetua Phoenixfire's owl Herrison. Whew! I had intended to send it off yesterday, but those muggles at the PO were all trying to send off their taxes, and the line was just too long. It was much better today. I have PM'd Perpetua to let her know it will be arriving shortly. I also will send along the confirmation info to you,Headmistress!

Look what was waiting for me when I Finally Got out of the Infirmary.

2008-04-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

Another not so quick trip to the infirmary this week. Still at least Mme. Pomfrey was there not Hagrid. Waiting for me on my bed was a package from a Ravenclaw, Miss Nymphadora. I would have assumed that my fellow Slitherins would have nicked some of the parcel but apparently it was being guarded by the ever cuddly (why can't be be even a bit more dignified?) and thankfully, non-snoring Spooky.

Details posted to my character blog at http://danazraella.wordpress.com/

I posted in character but want to say OCC on this page I while Danni may think she is well deserving I know that Nyphadora really outdid herself and am very humbled by her generosity.

Arrival of the Owl!

2008-04-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Ophelia Crookshanks for being the best spoiler ever! Here's a preview of what she sent to me:

Head over to my blog for more! :D

Sneak Preview

2008-04-16T04:21:00.001-07:00

Here is just a sneak preview of the kit that arrived from my generous and wonderful spoiler. Head on over to my blog to see what was in those beautiful silver parcels!

Olive Bladvak!

2008-04-15T22:13:00.001-07:00

Your owl came today, and the poor dear was just SO tired, I had to let him sleep until morning. He'll be starting your way tomorrow!

I think I talked his ear off about the death of my grandmother, and how much she loved owls. So please give him a bit of a treat when he comes into your door!

Hurray!

2008-04-15T14:36:00.000-07:00

Super big thanks go out to DanAzrael Deamonova of Slytherin! My package arrived today, and it was full of intriguing goodies. Click over to my blog or check out my flick page to have a look!

DanAzrael, your package was beautiful and generous--thank you so much for making this swap so much fun for me.

A Very Tired Owl Found Me

2008-04-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

OMG!! I came home today to find a very tired little owl with a BIG package from my spoiler. Wait until you see the bag I got...and the stitch markers... and yarn... and needles... and oodles of patterns... and goodies and...and....and....! I'm so excited I can barely speak. I haven't taken photos yet but will do so right after dinner. Just you wait until you see what I got! Thank you, thank you, thank you Toni dela Weasley!!

Daily Prophet, Issue 33 - Owl Update

2008-04-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone!
We are just a week away from the deadline when all packages must be mailed!!

I know that a few of you were still waiting on owls to deliver items for your packages. I would like to insist that you please send whatever you have by the 18th, even if something is missing from your package.

There are still quite a few of you that have not sent their packages. Here's my list of people that still need to send their packages:

Gryffindor
Clara Clovenhoove
Fleur Bloomfleet
Hermione Phoenixfire

Hufflepuff
Helga Lovegoods
Matilda Durmstrang
Petunia Acromantula

Ravenclaw
Allitrya Spelling
Enid Black
Fern Fiddlewithers
Victoria Black

Slytherin
Bridget Willomane
Cassandra Black
Emma Dumbledore
Emma Gorodok
Olive Broomfleet

If you are on this list, but HAVE sent your package off, please email me right away so that I can change the information in my database.

Calling All Angels!

If you volunteered to be an angel for this swap, please contact me - hogwartssockkitswap AT yahoo.com
Your angel kit doesn't have to include every item that a normal kit would hold. If you are able to do that then please go for it. But, angel kits should include:

A bag (this should be sewn)
A sock pattern
Yarn

Stitch markers are relatively inexpensive to make or purchase. You can print a free sock pattern online. The only thing you'd have to labor over would be the bag. I'm hoping that we won't need 15 angels at the moment, but please pipe up if you are still willing to send an angel package.

Owl from Lily Finegan

2008-04-14T07:08:00.001-07:00

Huzzah! It arrived this morning, and the package it was carrying contained this:

If you want to read all about it and see more pictures please visit my enchanted portal.

Thank you Lily for all the thought and effort you put into this! It's beautiful!

Thanks Selina Starfire!!!!

2008-04-14T04:20:00.000-07:00

While I was away, I got my package, from the lovely Selina Starfire!

Look, Look! I got a BROOM in the mail!!! It's really too bad this came after the deadline for "best package" submissions, because I think maybe the broom might have put her over the top!

There was lots of other great stuff in here too! A real light up wand, a lovely little tin that contains my yarn and BEADS for the socks! Some great candies, including my first package of Bertie Bots...do I dare?

The sock pattern is the Beaded Swirls Socks. These really are lovely! It'll be my first experience with stringing beads... will probably give me that much more appreciation for Judy Pascale's beading techniques!!

Also got a great Knitting Stitch Bible, this LOVELY hand-knit/lined project bag, beautiful beaded stitch markers, a copy of Knitter's magazine... What a cool, fun package!
Thanks Selina!!

Harry Potter Yarn from Opal!!

2008-04-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

It appears that Opal will be coming out with Harry Potter yarn later this year. Here is a pic of the apparent ad (Opal has not made a pic available yet, but this was posted on another site):

For more info see:

http://simplysockyarn.typepad.com/simply_socks_yarn_co/2008/04/opals-new-harry.html

Doris Is Awesome

2008-04-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

My owl arrived from Doris Boomslang. Check it out here!

Thanks, Doris. You're the best!

xo,

Tuney Acromantula

THANK YOU Ingrid Ze Insightful!!!!

2008-04-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

I got my swap package yesterday! It was lovely! My camera isn't working or i would post pics. I got three different kinds of yarn, two skeins each! A gorgeous sewn bag! Beautiful stitch markers! Some lovely lotions and soaps. Gryffindor colored tic tacs. Beautiful Lantern Moon needles. I feel like I'm forgetting something. Anyways, I LOVED it! Thanks so much!!!!

Petunia Cadogan

THANK YOU, FELDA!!!

2008-04-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share with you a quick pic of my kit from Felda the House Elf! I'm all for house elf rights, especially because they make excellent swap kits. : )

If you want to see more photos (and I mean way too many) check out my blog.

Artimus Takes Flight

2008-04-11T09:51:00.001-07:00

This morning I set off our tawny owl Artimus to the far-flung land of Minnesota, USA where my lovely partner Fleur Lovegoods resides. Your package is on it's way, I hope you like all that is in it.

Merlins Beard!

2008-04-11T08:54:00.001-07:00

Marty, Olive Bladvaks owl, arrived yesterday and brought me a parcel that completely spoiled me. Those Ravenclaws are clever and Olive is no exception. She sent me so many wonderful things I almost don't even know what to say- other than a really huge thank you! There are so many extras and things I would never have been able to find or try if it wasn't for Olive.
It was all done up really brilliantly too in Gryffindor colors with ribbons and tags telling me where things were from or what they are. Olive is one creative witch.

All of the goodies assembled for a group photo.
A shot of the knitting specific magical artifacts. Two sock spells, a pair of bamboo needles from Japan, a set of Knit Picks Harmony needles 2.5mm, and yarn in Indian Summer from All the Pretty Fibers. It's so squishy and soft and perfect for the Firestarter sock spell that she sent me!

If you want to see what was in all of those magical packages there are more pictures and info here.

Thank you soooo much Olive!

Owl Landing!

2008-04-10T13:38:00.000-07:00

My partner wasn't kidding when she said her owl, Marty, had a long way to fly! He safely landed today, despite our little blizzard, all the way from Okinawa, Japan. Olive Bladvak of Ravenclaw really outdid herself spoiling me. I took lots of pictures with my Muggle camera as I opened everything up. I can't believe all the treats she sent me. Tomorrow I will write up a more detailed post and show of my treats with lots of pictures!
Olive- thank you, thank you, thank you!

Daily Prophet, Issue 32

2008-04-10T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello, all!

As I've said before with every HSKS things change. Our follow up this time around has been a lot more fervent, but I'm almost thinking now that it might be too fervent? Please let me know your thoughts and leave your suggestions.

Communication
The frustrating part for me is not hearing from a few or knowing that they have been posting on Ravelry, but not having any communication here. It's okay, though. I understand that a myriad of things could be happening in people's life that I know nothing about. I know for a fact that we've had deaths in the family, chronic illnesses, swollen apendages (not what you think! Get your mind out of the gutter!), and moves happening all around the end of the swap. I just ask that each of you please make sure that you are in contact with your prefect and your pal, or in the very least, updating your blog so that people know what is going on in your lives.

In particular I would like to hear from the Hufflepuffs - whether you sent or received packages - and the Slytherins on whether you've sent your packages. I've already heard from a few of you, but not enough.

Packages Sent

Gryffindors - 78%

Ravenclaws - 78%

Hufflepuffs - 20%

Slytherins - 40%

67% of all swap packages have been sent. Let's go for 100% everyone!!!

Add Your Kit Photos to Flickr!!
If you haven't had the chance, please join the HSKS group on Flickr and add your photos. I would love to keep a database of kits for people to refer back to. Just go HERE to join.

Woo Hoo--My Enchanted Kit Has Arrived

2008-04-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

Please allow me to share my Enchanted Kit from Bathilda Boomslang with you! Pics can be found on my blog. Bathilda, you rock!!!! Thank you so much!!!!

Anyone Else Stalking this Site?

2008-04-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

Today I have spent hours at a computer for the first time in weeks. Every 15 minutes I'm refreshing the HSKS4 blog hoping pictures of a new kit will be posted! This is crazy! Each one is so cool, unique and precious. The bags, the extras, the yarns, the do-dads! I'm "swap drunk" - really! Anyone else feel like they've already received 10 packages and their head is spinning?

My Owl arrived!!

2008-04-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

I got a wonderful package from Madam Ferula Finnigan! The owl was so tired I let the poor thing rest before letting it fly off again.

It was all wrapped so beautifully that I didn't want to open it but I couldn't help myself I had to see all the goodies that were waiting for me!

Now look at all the goodies!

The bag is great I know it will get used for all kinds of projects, My favorite needles addi turbo size 1 that will go wonderfully with the new yarn from Selana's store the gryffindor colorway is beautiful and it is so soft! Maybe a pattern from the Little Box of sock she sent me! The bath beads are great the box says for the next McPotions class. I love the coffee mug unfortunately it was broken during shipping but I can fix it right up so I will be drinking my morning cup in there. I don't know how she found out that I collect sheep but that cute little sheep was holding my stitch markers

Thank you so much Ferlua!

Avada Fintch-Fletchly Officially Rocks my Socks!

2008-04-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

I have just received my package from miss Avada Fintch-Fletchly, and it is AMAZING!
I am just speechless with delight! Look! Kitty approved!

The bag is so fabulous it gets a picture all by itself!

Here is a close up of the dish cloth... it is really neat!

Her Royal Highness also approves of the bag.

She could sit here and stare at it for hours! (So could I!)

Thank you again Avada! I am so excited to try the needles.. and the yarn, it is so soft! I just can't decide which pattern to do first... maybe one for the awesome sock blocker keychain!

Oh, I have to ask about the postcard from "Portland". I have heard that is where you get sent if you use a broken port key. Is that true? If it is I may pop in for a visit some time! (Beautiful place, you are lucky!)

I have to admit that I was quite bewildered by the silver envelope. It seems that the knot and bow on the front is nothing but a confuzzlement spell. Once I figured that out and turned it over I found the fly foot closing spell to be quite ingenious! Thank you also for the self reading book that was inside, I do love hearing a good story!

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!

Baby Black

2008-04-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone, head on over to Enid Black's blog to see pictures of the new baby. She's SO CUTE!

http://www.marchmommy08.blogspot.com/

I got my package!

2008-04-07T18:38:00.000-07:00

My package from Cressida Townsbury arrived in the post today. It was perfect! I'm so happy.

For more pictures and information, see my blog.

OH MY GOODNESS!!

2008-04-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

I just received my package from Perpetua Phoenixfire of Ravenclaw. Perpetua you have truly outdone yourself and spoiled me rotten! Thank you so much! I love everything!!!

Check it out here

YAY FOR MONDAY

2008-04-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

My package came and I do feel bad for the mail carrier because I all but jumped him for the package.

Rainy days and Mondays always get me down, but packages make things all better!!!

My Owl has been sent

2008-04-07T04:43:00.000-07:00

I do hope my spoilee receives my post. I placed it in the mail on Thursday the 3rd of April. I keep checking the GPS unit I installed on it's leg, but it doesn't seem to be registering. If my spoilee has figured out who she is, here is the location number: 7007 1490 0002 5128 5094. If not, here is a clue-- my spoilee is on the other side of the continent from me.

Good Luck.

My swap package

2008-04-05T12:59:00.000-07:00

I received my swap package today! Ms. Selina Starfire has put together a wonderful kit for me to enjoy for months (and years) to come! The owl dropped it off at the post office and the postal worker decided to sit it on the ground in a running stream of water, but everything is fine. :0)

I will have more pictures on my blog.

Quidditch Prize from Cassandra Puddlemere

2008-04-05T12:57:00.001-07:00

Today I received my Quidditch prize from our Prefect! It is awesome and what an awesome name. ;)

thanks Cass!

It's Birthday Time!

2008-04-05T04:18:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA WIGWORTHY!

(and Happy Birthday to my daughter Aimee)

Gryffindor yarn

2008-04-04T21:48:00.000-07:00

I got my Gryffindor Final quiz prize yarn in the mail today! Let's give a big hand to Cassandra Puddlemere for hand dyeing this beautiful Gryffindor colored yarn. I love it!

The only thing that could make this month better would be to get my kit in the mail... : (

Angus McTavish Is On His Way

2008-04-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, my dear little owl is on his way to Canada with a special package for a very deserving recipient.

Seva is on her way...

2008-04-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

My owl has flown off with a package put together especially for my Spoilee! Since we are "neighbors" Seva thought it would be there Monday... How exciting!!

out in the mail

2008-04-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

Gabby is having computer problems so she aked me to post that her package is in the air as I type.

Confirmation # 0304 3490 0000 1234 3198

I hope her swap partner enjoys it as much as I enjoyed poking around it. 8)

WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT

2008-04-04T07:04:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of the swap. The prefects and I have already begun our follow up duties and have sent out a few emails to people checking on the progress of their kits. If you have not received your kit, rest assured, the majority of everyone will be sending their kits over the weekend.

And now to announce the winners of our last contests!

Best Character Blog Award
Emma Wigworthy

Most Consistent Blogger Award
1st Place
Olive Bladvak
2nd Place
Cliodna Trelawney

Best Swap Package Award
1st Place
Cassandra Puddlemere's Package to Patonga Pinkstone
2nd Place
Penelope Pinkstone's Package to Cliodna Trelawney
3rd Place
Ophelia Hopkirk's Package to Perenelle Ballycastle

Best Prefect Award
Neila Chaouch

Congrats again to our Quidditch winners!

Round One - Cassandra Grubbly-Plank

Round Two - Lily Durmstrang

Round Three - Cassandra Puddlemere

Congrats to Gryffindor House!
3rd Time Quidditch winners of the HSKS games!

I will be sending out an email shortly to some of you that volunteered to send prizes. I will let you know who you are sending a prize to.

Thank you, everyone, for making this the best HSKS yet!! I'm so looking forward to the next one where there will be even a few more surprises :) Information about the next swap will be posted here and on Ravelry in a few weeks. See you then!!

Ravenclaw Pride Socks

2008-04-03T17:46:00.001-07:00

These are the first in my series of designs for House socks. I have listed the PDF pattern in my Etsy shop - follow the link if you'd like to buy it (it costs $5).

A while ago (these things take time!!) Lavender Ackerly suggested I should design some 'proper Ravenclaw socks', and these are the result of my response to such inspirational support! They feature the Ravenclaw eagle and a house cheer - 'Soar Ravenclaw'. I have worked to evoke the medieval origins of the Hogwarts houses in the design.

Kit Arrived!

2008-04-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

My kit came in this week and I just uploaded pics onto my site. Thanks so much to the wonderful Patonga Wigworthy!

Swap Kit - arrived!

2008-04-02T13:15:00.000-07:00

Narcissa Bladvak - thank you! I received a lovely parcel by Owl today, including a lovely lined cabled knitted bag, three types of Badger salve, some herbal tea, ebony size 0 Sock Stix, stitch markers and some gorgeous bronze and blue sock yarn. And the printed materials: A Quietish sock pattern and a very nice knitting journal (something I'd seen at a store and coveted).
T H A N K Y O U!!
ps: (camera is charging; photos to be posted on my blog).

Finally posted pictures

2008-04-01T16:56:00.001-07:00

I finally posted pictures of the fabulous kit I received earlier in the term from Perpetua Phoenixfire of Gryffindor. I apologize for taking so long to blog them, but my life has been a bit busy over the past few weeks. The pictures are up on my blog, but the post is very picture-heavy, so I'd like to warn people with slow connections that it might take a while if you'd like to take a look. My blog is at http://allitrya.wordpress.com.

Copyright action

2008-04-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

AOL news says HSKS is being sued for copyright theft. Is this true? (OMG!!)

Pictures!!

2008-03-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

Where are all of the pictures of the packages?? I do not know about the rest of you, but one of the best parts of a swap is seeing what other people have sent. So please post!

Owl's Away

2008-03-31T12:39:00.000-07:00

Padma Dumledore watch the sky's for your Owl! I hope the snow doesn't slow it down.

Will you keep your name from this term?

2008-03-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about this a bit as the end of term nears, I've noticed a few posts on a few blogs as well so I thought I'd ask here to see how everyone else feels. Will you be keeping your name and persona from this term for next term?

HOGWARTS POLL

2008-03-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

Preparations for next term at Hogwarts are in the works. We are considering making changes to the swap kit and would like to get your opinions and ideas.

Besides, instead of, or in addition to a handmade bag, what other handmade items would you like to receive?

We are interested in all suggestions and magical ideas, keeping in mind that we would like to keep everything Harry Potter related. Please post your ideas here before the end of the term.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ENID BLACK

2008-03-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Let's all send a big round of congrats to Enid Black who gave birth to a baby girl today! Another knitter is born!

WhoHooo

2008-03-27T19:19:00.001-07:00

I received the most wonderful kit and bags from Cassandra Hopkirk today. Cassandra made me a card and book and she sent me sweets and yarn. Lots of knitting accessories and needles. She's the best!!! More details on my blog.

Bridget Willowmane
Slytherin 1st Year

I got my kit!!!

2008-03-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Wanna see the best swap kit ever!?
Check out what Serafina Starfire sent me!
Loads of picture on my blog.

Thank you Serafina!!!

Daily Prophet, Issue 31

2008-03-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's time to begin the sent and received posts. If I've missed your name, please mention it in the comments and I'll be sure the check my emails for something I missed. These are all that have send their delivery confirmations to me.

Gryffindors
Penelope Pinkstone
Cassandra Puddlemere
Lady Felua the Forgetful
Perpetua Phoenixfire
Madam Ferula Finnigan
Padma Dumbledore
Cassandra Grubbly-Plank
Lavender Kedavra
Lily of Flitwick
Lily Durmstrang
Electra the Enchanting
50% of Gryffindor's kits have been mailed

Hufflepuffs
Violet le Veela
11% of Hufflepuff's kits have been mailed

Ravenclaws
Cassandra Hopkirk
Elanor Cadogan
Gabriella Clearwater
Patonga Pinkstone
Cliodna Bloomfleet
Emma Diggory
Lavender Diggory
Patonga Wigworthy
Cecilia Kettleburn
Serafina Starfire
Millicient Brocklehurst
Emma Wigworthy
32% of Ravenclaw's kits have been mailed

Slytherin
Emma Gorodok
Bridget Willowmane
20% of Slytherin kits have been mailed

Deadline for late kits to be sent is April 18.
If you estimate that you will not be able to send your kit off in that time you NEED to communicate this with me. If there is no communication and you exceed that deadline you will be banned from further HSKS swaps, and unfortunately you will go on the bad swappers list on Ravelry also. So, do your best to get you kit mailed ASAP and communicate with me and/or your prefect.

HSKS5 Sign Ups

Okie dokie! Here's the schedule for the next term:

Returning students - Sign up begins April 30th
New students - Sign up begins May 2nd
Sign ups close - May 14th
Term begins - May 16th
Term ends - July 18th

Happy Birthday Fern Fiddlewithers!

2008-03-26T08:24:00.001-07:00

Hope you have a great birthday!

And the Winners Are...

2008-03-26T05:58:00.000-07:00

The winners of the last Gryffindor House Quiz of the term are:

Ophelia Crookshanks

Lily Durmstrang

Lady Felula the Forgetful

Congratulations Ladies! I will email you all later with the list of dye colors that lie in my Potion Cabinet and will then custom dye your skein of yarn!

Congratulations again!

2008-03-25T11:41:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately ~ Professor Snape hates Harry and would love to do anything he could to get him into trouble.

Fortunately

2008-03-25T10:59:00.000-07:00

Proffesor Snape had no real proof, so there was nothing he could do about it.

Luckiest Ravenclaw Ever!

2008-03-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

Look how much I have been spoiled! At first I could not see anything because the package was wrapped in an invisibility cloak. Once I figured out the cloak, I was ecstatic to see my package! Not only did Electra the Enchanted knit me a BEAUTIFUL bag, but she also sewed another bag to hold the yarn. Speaking of the yarn, she said this is the first time she has tried dying her own HP yarn. Talk about first timer luck!! It is gorgeous!! And all the extra goodies, how lucky am I!

Thank you so much Electra the Enchanted!!

Lavender Diggory

UNfortunately

2008-03-25T04:31:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately Snape blamed Harry for the missing gillyweed and ingredients for polyjuice potion that were missing from his Potions closet

Fortunately

2008-03-24T20:22:00.001-07:00

Fortunately Dobby was able to help harry with the 3rd challenge.

Last Game 2

2008-03-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately the Hogwarts House Elves were insulted by Hermione hiding hats in the Gryffindor Common Room, so none of them would clean there except for Dobby.

Last game sniff

2008-03-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

Ok Swappers...

Wanna play one more game!?!?

I have been thinking long and hard...and this is what I have come up with.

I am copying from the Ravelry Games board. It is called Fortunately/Unfortunately. I will start.

Fortunately, Hermione started knitting hats for the house elves, to set them free.

(Now someone else posts a comment for Unfortunately. It will continue on in that manner)

Happy Easter!!

2008-03-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend.

Clio

Felda, the House Elf......

2008-03-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

Your owl will be sent on Tuesday!!! It's all wrapped up and ready to go! I hope you enjoy everything in it! I've had lots of fun putting it together.

Slytherin Charms Challenge

2008-03-22T14:26:00.000-07:00

Charms are a type of magic spell concerned with enchanting an object to behave in a way that isn't normal for that object. Charms is also something of a catch-all for spells that aren't Transfiguration (spells that change the inherent nature of an object). Charm spells are in some ways the opposite of Curses: many Charms seem to have an inherent positive tone, while Curses have an inherent negative one. This is not to say that Charms are weaker magic; a well-chosen Charm is a powerful magical tool against curses, jinxes, and hexes. Professor Flitwick, the Hogwarts Charms teacher, was rumored to have once been a duelling champion, after all.

1 Which charm did Slughorn say would disable a Muggle burglar alarm?

2 What was the basic defensive spell, taught at the Duelling Club by Snape and used frequently thereafter?

3 What spell was used by witches and the wizards in medieval times who were burned at the stake?

4 What spell did Snape tell Draco to cast on Harry at the Duelling Club?

5 Which spell did Draco cast on Neville just for kicks; which had Neville hopping all the way back to Gryffindor Tower?

6 Fifth-years worked on which spell in Charms using bullfrogs and ravens?

7 Which charm did Harry accidentally mix up the incantation for with the Colour Change Charm during his practical Charms O.W.L.?

8 Which charm was Harry and his classmates practicing in their fourth-year Charms class that had Professor Flitwick being swept all around the room by Neville, whose aim wasn't very good.

9 What spell did Harry try to cast on Draco, but it was deflected and hit Goyle in the face outside of the Potions Classroom?

10 What charm did Hermione cast to keep Rita Skeeter trapped in beetle form?

11 What charm did Hermione have to use on Harry while he was unconscious after their visit to Godric's Hollow?

12 Which charm did Hermione try in an attempt to protect herself, Ron, Bogrod, and Griphook from the burning, multiplying treasure in the Gringott's vault?

13 Kevin, the little wizard boy in the World Cup campground, was casting what spell on a slug before his Mother took his Dad's wand from him?

14 Lockhart supposedly used which charm to defeat the Wagga Wagga werewolf and demonstrated in Defence Against the Dark Arts?

15 Madame Maxime used which charm to force Golgomath's thugs to drop Hagrid when the giants became hostile with the ascension of the new Gurg?

16 Which charm proved useless against the door in the Department of Mysteries (which also melted Harry's knife-blade)?

17 What is the substance that can destroy Horcruxes, that Hermione considered far too dangerous to ever use?

18 What charm did Ron recommend Harry use on Cormack McLaggen after his antics cost them a Quidditch match?

19 What charm does Ron say he can use instead of looking in the mirrors when he drives a muggle car?

20 What spell was Seamus Finnigan reciting the definition of aloud, the day before Harry's first O.W.L. exam?

21 What charm did Snape suggest had been used on Harry, Ron, and Hermione by Sirius Black in the shrieking shack?

22 The power of which Charm will be diluted more and more as more and more people become Secret Keepers?

23 Which charm became fashionable during the last month or so of Harry's fifth year, because Dungbombs and Stink Pellets were being used frequently in the corridors?

24 Which spell is known only to Death Eaters, and is sent up in the sky when they kill?

25 To deal with his Aunt Marge Harry tried to recall which spell on page twelve of the Handbook of Do-It-Yourself Broom Care?

Bev Love

aka paletpc
Slytherin Prefect
paletpc@mindspring.com

Ravenclaw House Quiz Winner

2008-03-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

For the last time this term I put into the Goblet of Fire the names of all those who completed the House Quiz. I waited patiently until a name gracefully fluttered forth. Congratulations to..........

PATONGA WIGWORTHY

Start searching the skies

2008-03-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

Miss Lavender Diggory I have sent your Owl and I must say he was very eager to get the job! The man at the Owl Post said that your owl should arrive in 2 to 3 days so I am betting it should be there by Monday! I can't wait for you to get it, I hope that you like everything I had so much fun getting everything gathered up for you!

Have a great Easter everyone!!
Cheers and Butterbeers :)

2008-03-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post to my wonderful swap partner (yet still unknown!!) that I received her package today. Thank you whoever you are!

Pictures will be up on my blog once I find that camera thingy. :)

-Minerva Scamander
Ravenclaw

Owls

2008-03-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

I sent out my package today via priority. I did not catch the name of the owl or the type.
It was l-a-r-g-e. I did not know they came so big.

I really hope my partners gets it by the weekend. 8)

Clara Clovenhoove's FInal Ravenclaw Quiz

2008-03-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

Here are my answers for the final house quiz!!

1. Who loves containers of all sorts? Esmerelda Beanswallow
2. Who dyed her fingers blue? Lavender Ackerly
3. Who is related to William Shakespeare? Celestina Cadogan
4. Who wants to own an alpaca farm? Victoria Black
5. Who hates carrots? Selina Starfire
6. Who is from the Muggle town of Bagshot in Surrey? Patonga Pinkstone
7. Who was searching for radishes in the winter? Madam Ferula McGonagall
8. Who got a gift certificate to a LYS from a Slytherin boy for Valentine's Day? Cecilia Kettleburn
9. Who discovered ghosts and house elves drinking tea in the Great Hall at midnight? Ophelia Hopkirk
10. Who took an extra credit class called Muggle Fantasy Literature? Selina Starflame
11. Who attended a Muggle music convention? Patonga Wigworthy
12. Who taught herself to purl backwards? Serafina Starfire
13. Who sports Ravenclaw Spirit socks? Minerva Kwikspell
14. Who would like to work in Muggle Relations after graduation? Allitrya Spelling
15. Whose Mum is named Henrietta? Avada Finch-Fletchley

Hufflepuff House Quiz #4

2008-03-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

I hope my dear Huffles have enjoyed your break from house quizzes. This weeks quiz isn't too hard. You may have to do some ready though. Answers are due March 26th at midnight.

1.Which 2 Huffles have a Pinkstone as spoilers?
2.Which Huffle went on a vacation to Germany?
3.Who is in love with Gus Cauldwell?
4.Which Gryffindor found the snitch during the first round of Quidditch?
5.What is Harry’s class schedule on Mondays is GoF?
6.What day does Voldemort kill Frank Bryce?
7.When was Moody kidnapped?
8.Who is called on to help Moody?
9.What happens to Hermione during Harry’s duel with Malfory?
10.When is the Yule Ball announce to the Gryffindors?

Postive Vibes Out to Professor McGonagall

2008-03-18T20:21:00.001-07:00

Dame Maggie Smith, Professor McGongall in the Harry Potter films, is fighting a battle with breast cancer, it has been revealed today. The brave Oscar winner is said to have insisted on going ahead with filming the latest installment of Potter last month, even though she was undergoing radiation therapy at the time. Let's keep her in our thoughts and prayers.

HSKS4 Quidditch Winners!

2008-03-18T12:37:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Gryffindor House!
Here are the final cumulative scores:

1st place - Gryffindor - 92%

2nd place - Ravenclaw - 86%

3rd place - Hufflepuff - 58%

4th place - Slytherin - 57%

Prizes

I will be contacting various people who offered to donate prizes. Here are the winners:

Round One - Cassandra Grubbly-Plank

Round Two - Lily Durmstrang

Round Three - Cassandra Puddlemere

Other prizes will be announced April 2nd:

Best Character Blog Contest
This will go to the person with the most creative character blog.
Best Prefect Award
This one goes to the prefect that is the best cheerleader for her House and keeps the communication flowing between me and her House.
Best Swap Package, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd
To enter this contest your delivery confirmation has to be emailed to me and a picture posted of your kit by April 1st. This is for the packages that go above and beyond in creativity, content, and design.

Final Gryffindor House Quiz

2008-03-18T09:51:00.003-07:00

Good Luck! ANswers Must be posted by midnight March 25th. I should warn you, even though there are some two or three word answers, the letters are all jumbled together.

Ravenclaw Final House Quiz

2008-03-17T19:10:00.001-07:00

Ravenclaws, it's time for your final House Quiz of the term. Let's see how well you've gotten to know your fellow Ravenclaws. This is a pop quiz and you will have until MIDNIGHT on THURSDAY, MARCH 20 to post your answers. So let's see how fast you truly are.

Who loves containers of all sorts?
Who dyed her fingers blue?
Who is related to William Shakespeare?
Who wants to own an alpaca farm?
Who hates carrots?
Who is from the Muggle town of Bagshot in Surrey?
Who was searching for radishes in the winter?
Who got a gift certificate to a LYS from a Slytherin boy for Valentine's Day?
Who discovered ghosts and house elves drinking tea in the Great Hall at midnight?
Who took an extra credit class called Muggle Fantasy Literature?
Who attended a Muggle music convention?
Who taught herself to purl backwards?
Who sports Ravenclaw Spirit socks?
Who would like to work in Muggle Relations after graduation?
Whose Mum is named Henrietta?

Everybody have their green on?

2008-03-17T11:02:00.001-07:00

If not, I will be coming around to the common rooms to pinch you!!

Hopefully McPotions won't have green on! ;)