A bit of a show

[alt_daphne]

I don't know about the rest of the houses, but here in Slytherin everyone is positively bubbling with excitement over Saturday's demonstration! I find that there's nothing that re-aligns one's purpose and sense of industry like a little entertainment. "Give a boy or girl something diverting to look forward to, and then smile at their gratitude" was a saying I grew up hearing from my Grandmother, and it's one I've held as my own ever since.

(Younger students should, of course, remember that our Professors are skilled professionals, and that anyone who attempts to emulate their performance either in advance or after the demonstration will be subject to the appropriate disciplinary action.)

But in all seriousness, this is precisely why things like Quidditch Matches, Hogsmeade Visits, Plays, Balls, and Feasts are such long-standing traditions at Hogwarts. For a student to really be taught the ways of the world, they must be taught to enjoy and manage the pleasures, just as surely as they must be taught to manage the tasks. I have a feeling that there may even be some adults and professors reading who know exactly what I mean and even agree with me, at least a little!

Though I will admit that it's true we don't often get a Ball at Hogwarts. Nevertheless, there's usually at least one massive, school-wide event for everyone to rally 'round!

Oh, and quickly: thank you to everyone who wished me Happy Birthday yesterday. We had a little celebration in the common room and managed to sneak Queenie in so she could have her pick of the tarts. My Mother sent me the most wonderful set of winter robes, perfect for the upcoming season, and I must say that they might be even more adult than my Yule Ball robes. It's hard to believe I'm sixteen years old! I think that shall take a while to sink in...

Comments

Private message to Astoria Greengrass

[alt_daphne]

Don't you EVER do that again. My belongings are not your belongings, even if they happen to be sitting out in a box in the common room. What if you had dropped plum tart on the fabric, or stepped on the train? What if...? I'll tell you what if: all your hair would be cut off and flushed down the loo, that's what!

I suppose I'll just have to start putting protective charms on my clothing and jewelry to keep you from trying it on and swanning about like a Princess. Very nasty protective charms.

Private Message to Cedric Diggory

[alt_daphne]

Diggory,

I don't know if you've become much acquainted with her yet, but my youngest sister, Queenie, is a first year in your house. She's very small, with very long, very dark hair, rosy cheeks, and big blue eyes - she looks just like a little doll. Well, last night we let her into the common room because it was my birthday. I started to take her back to Hufflepuff well before curfew, but she seemed very reluctant to return and said that she wanted to sleep in Slytherin, with me.

Of course I didn't let her stay, but I did ask her what she was so upset about and she said that she didn't want to be punished like Chelsea was. I'm not sure what she was on about, but she said that this Chelsea girl couldn't stop cleaning and re-arranging things?

I just wondered if you knew anything about it. Maybe Queenie was confused and it wasn't really a punishment at all, but firsties playing some kind of game?

Sincerely,
Daphne G. Greengrass

Private message to Padma

[alt_daphne]

Padma,

I think you've secured Madam Umbridge's favour by now, so let me ask you: how might I suggest to her that the school stage a Musical and Theatre Revue some time this year? It's something I brought up with Blaise at the start of the term, and he thought it was a brilliant idea, too. Only I've the distinct impression that Madam Umbridge doesn't approve of the Arts - she certainly cut me off rather quickly when I tried to bring the topic up during our meeting a few weeks ago. But surely there must be a way to convince her that it's a worthwhile activity?

-Daphs

[alt_pansy]

I think we've got to do some serious research about the best way to do your hair so that it shows off the back of the robes to best effect. And the colours! I love the way they shifted around when you moved. They're just made for dancing. And of course, you look absolutely beautiful in them.