Since my grandson Patrick, at 16, is much too old to go to the big Hogwarts party at Joseph-Beth last night – I went by myself. And had a wonderful time! Lots of Harry Potters, Hermiones and Rons about – but several Sirius Blacks and an astonishing number of houselves as well – and a huge Hagrid.
The store had done a terrific job, setting itself up in different areas as Diagon Alley (including Weasleys Wizard Wheezes), the Three Broomsticks, Platform 9-3/4 and the Ministry of Magic – and showing everything on the Marauder’s Map. There was a Divination class – and the Sorting Hat was hard at work all evening. I didn’t get in the Sorting line, but at the end an 8 year old I was hanging out with got me a Slytherin button – I’ve always thought I’m like Harry – a Gryffindor with strong Slytherin skills.
There was heavy voting on whether Severus Snape is good or evil. (I already know from reading the book, but am not going to tell!)
Since I had a voucher (bought it in February!), I also got an Auror’s pouch – including a DA (Dark Arts) quill, polyjuice potion, directions for invisible ink and a one-way pass on the Hogwarts Express. I’ll use it as a bookmark until I’m ready to get on the train.
I bought myself a Slytherin winter scarf, Blood Pops and a bag of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. And then came home and read for an hour and a half.
A friend just emailed me that I’m on Channel 12, in line getting my book at 12:01 a m last night. Life is good!