Category: books

Going Back to Hogwarts

Harry Potter fans worldwide celebrate September 1st as the day to return to Hogwarts. Since social distancing and restrictions are still in effect for many areas, finding small ways to celebrate is essential. Are you wondering how to celebrate going back to Hogwarts? Check out the following ideas for inspiration.

Celebrating Going Back to Hogwarts

“Whether you come back by page or by the big screen,

Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”

J.K. Rowling

Return to Hogwarts in your own way by participating in different family-friendly activities.

  • Watch the Movies: Make some popcorn, order pizza, and pick your favorite Harry Potter movie to watch. Choosing a favorite may be difficult; you can always binge-watch the entire series over the next couple of days.
  • Re-Read the Series: Curl up under your favorite blanket and spend time re-reading the series. Or read the series together as a family.
  • Listen to the Audio Versions: Do you have other work to do? Turn on the audio version of the series.
  • Make Wizarding World Themed Food: In J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Remus Lupin stated, “Eat, you’ll feel better.” Of course, this was after an encounter with a Dementor. But the sentiment still holds up for returning to Hogwarts. Make chocolate frogs, coins, or a complete meal based on the food from the Hogwarts’ feast. Don’t forget the cake.
  • Have a Craft Day: Pull out your crafting supply stash and make Wizarding World themed crafts.
    Melt pony beads on old pizza pans to create large Harry Potter inspired sun catchers.

    There are numerous easy crafts to make, including owls, plaster frogs, coins, ornaments, and more. Of course, you will need your own wand.

  • Participate in Online Events: With all the restrictions in place due to the pandemic, many sites, including the Wizarding World, are hosting online events.
  • Listen to a Podcast: Find a new or re-listen to Harry Potter-themed podcasts.
  • Play Games: From video games to board games, play Wizarding World and Harry Potter themed games.

Do you want to know the best way to celebrate going back to Hogwarts? Have fun. Enjoy time with your family. Or curl up with your dog and dive back into the Wizarding World by reading the very first Harry Potter book.

Rebecca Reviewed It: The Wizarding Trunk Lessons Two Box

The Magical Lessons themed box is my first purchase from The Wizarding Trunk. The theme of this box is Transfiguration, Flying, and Apparition based around the Harry Potter series. The box is the second in the series focusing on lessons from Hogwarts.

Yes, I save the packaging to reuse in my gift-giving boxes or for crafts.

I was a little disappointed my box did not come with the letter/cheat sheet. I love to read the information guide to figure out precisely what is in the box. Sometimes, my guessing is a little off.

But I loved the email sent to me with the tracking information. My owl’s name was Fred. So I raise my glass of Butterbeer to Fred for safely delivering my package.

Transfiguration, Flying, and Apparition

I must give high marks to the creative people behind this box.

  1. Dittany Potion: Essence of Dittany Potion bottle is a perfect addition to my shelf. I loved the intricate design of the wax seal, the old-style label, and the overall display of the leaves.

    The potion bottle is one of my favorites in this box.
  2. Transfiguration Book Cover: The book covers fit the U.S. versions of the Harry Potter Series. The cover was created by Danny at Wizardry Workshop. The design and foiling of the book cover are absolutely beautiful.
  3. Ron’s Rat Goblet Pin: In the series, Ron’s wand is broken. When he attempts to turn the rat into a water goblet, the outcome is hilarious. The pin represents this moment in the series.
  4. Wizarding Travel Woodmark: The bookmark features your own License for Independent Wizard Travel.  The bookmark came in a purple envelope with a wax seal on the back.
  5. Reusable Coffee Sleeve: I am not a big coffee drinker. I do drink tea. I am sure this will be a perfect fit for my travel mug.
  6. Transfiguration Lessons VII Print: The print, created by J.P. Misslecrow, is one of my favorites. I love the overall design. The print looks like it came out of an old transfiguration book. 
  7. The Pitch: A candle created by Inflammare Candles smells like the Pitch, which is Fresh Air, Flying, Sweet Grass, and Dandelion.
  8. Do-It-Yourself Broomstick Servicing Kit: The kit is actually a pencil case, which I think could easily double for a cosplay item or a photo prop. 
  9. Broomstick Servicing Kit Note Pad: I can never have too many notepads.
  10. Broomstick Servicing Kit Compass: I really liked the overall design of this clip-on compass. 
  11. Broomstick Polish: This is such a great idea. The “polish” is actually a detox face wash. The tin makes a beautiful display piece.
  12. Brooch Phone Holder: This replica of Professor McGonagall’s brooch is a stand to hold your cell phone. I love the little note that came with the brooch, signed by H.

Will I purchase another box from The Wizarding Trunk? Yes, in fact, I already pre-ordered the Halloween special edition box.

Did you receive this box? What are your opinions?

Happy 40th Birthday, Harry Potter!

Today, July 31st, 2020, is J. K. Rowling’s character, Harry Potter’s 40th birthday. If you do not know by now, J.K. Rowling’s birthday is also today. So, here is wishing a Happy 40th Birthday to Harry Potter, “the boy who lived” and the author who brought magic alive for millions of fans.

Why celebrate? Well, the real question is, “why not celebrate.” Stay at home orders, social distancing, and other restrictions lead to canceled plans for you, your friends, or your family. Finding little things to celebrate is a great way to make memories during this current health crisis.

Ways to Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday

Are you looking for simple ways to celebrate? Well, binge-watching the Harry Potter series is one of the best ways to celebrate. For extra fun, make popcorn, order pizza, or host a watch party online.

For the love of a fandom

Other ways to celebrate include:

  • Read: The new illustrated editions draw you right into the Wizarding World.
  • Join a Group: Social media hosts numerous groups, including Adult Fans of Harry Potter. Connecting with other Harry Potter fans is a beautiful way to chat about the growing fandom.
  • Subscribe: GeekGear and other monthly subscription boxes brings your love of the Wizarding World right to your doorstep.
  • Listen to a Podcast: Finding a new podcast or listening to an old favorite provides insight into the world of Harry Potter.
  • Do Crafts: Let your creativity shine.
  • Make Food: Pinterest has thousands of recipes relating to the Wizarding World. Maybe you can discover your inner chef.
  • Host a Zoom Session: Invite friends to chat with you about Harry Potter.
  • Write Fan Fiction: Put your pen to paper or start typing to write a story about the Wizarding World, Hogwarts, or the characters in the books.
  • Join a Cause: The Harry Potter Alliance advocates different worthy causes. Learn different ways to transform your love for Harry Potter to real life situations.

Celebrate July 31st; small occasions can quickly turn into lasting memories for you and your family.  For millions of fans, the day is just the beginning of Harry Potter’s magical tale.

10 Days of Harry Potter: Ornament Craft

Are you searching for another craft to keep your children busy? Making Harry Potter themed ornaments is an excellent way to pass the time. The ornaments will make a great addition to your Christmas tree later in the year. Or, you can display your ornament creations on your bookcase, curtain rod, or other noticeable areas.

Materials Needed:

  • Clay (The type of material used is completely up to you. You can purchase baking clay at your local supermarket or craft shop. Or you can look up a recipe on Pinterest to make porcelain or salt dough.)

    Purchased at Wal-Mart
  • Cookie sheet
  • Various Harry Potter themed cookie cutters. (This kit is sold at William Sonoma).
  • Paint
  • Paintbrushes

Instructions:

  1. Make the dough according to instructions. Or tear off pieces of the clay to use.
  2. Work into the desired consistency.
  3. Roll out the clay.
  4. Push the cookie cutter into the clay.
  5. Place the ornament unto the cookie sheet.
  6. Poke holes in the ornament to hang later. (A small wooden dowel works great)
  7. Bake the ornaments as directed.
  8. Allow the ornaments to completely cool.

The best part of the ornament craft, children of all ages can enjoy the painting process. Remember to place a date on the back of the ornament. A simple afternoon craft can easily turn into a cherished memory down the road.

10 Days of Harry Potter: Chocolate Frogs, Coins, and More

In J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter series, large feasts, parties, sneaking down to the kitchens, or devouring Molly’s home cooking, food is a common theme. Who wouldn’t want to eat their way through a Hogwart’s start of term feast or the extravagant Halloween festivities?

Are you wondering how to celebrate Harry Potter with special treats? Consider the following ideas.

Chocolate Frogs and Chocolate Coins

Materials Needed:

  • Frog and coin molds
    Silicone Frog Mold

  • Dipping chocolate

Instructions:

  1. Melt dipping chocolate as directed. You can melt the chocolate in the microwave or use a double boiler pan.
  2. Melt chocolate to desired consistency.
  3. When ready, carefully spoon the chocolate into the molds.
  4. Allow hardening.
  5. Serve.

Bertie Botts Every Flavor Bean 

Pick up a box of Bertie Botts Every Flavor Bean. Try and guess each flavor without looking at the guide.

Added Fun

When having a fun-filled Harry Potter food night, try something new. Many novelty stores or specialty shops sell edible insects. Make memories by trying something completely new. Who is the brave one in your family?

 

 

10 Days of Harry Potter: Chocolate Frog Craft

On the Hogwarts Express in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, the readers first learn about Chocolate Frogs. Our beloved characters Ron Weasley and Harry Potter, are sharing treats off from the trolley.

“Oh, of course, you wouldn’t know — Chocolate Frogs have cards inside of them, you know, to collect — famous witches and wizards. I’ve got about five hundred, but I haven’t got Agrippa or Ptolemy” (Rowling, 1998).

Well, you cannot make your frog jump. But you can create Chocolate Frogs out of plaster to paint. Use the plaster Chocolate frogs on different projects, including Christmas tree ornaments or wreaths. Or simply have you Chocolate Frog sitting on your desk.

How to Make Plaster Chocolate Frogs

Materials Needed:

  • Chocolate frog molds (Silicone or plastic, both molds provide excellent results when working with plaster.)
    Plastic Frog Mold

    Silicone Frog Mold
  • Plaster
  • Throw away containers for mixing plaster. (Remember not to pour remaining plaster down the sink.)
  • Water
  • Paint in various colors
  • Paintbrushes

Instructions:

  1. Place newspapers or other protective materials on your counter.
  2. Mix plaster as directed. Always add the plaster mixture to the water for a smooth and consistent mixture. (Keep in mind, the plaster hardens quickly. You need to have your molds ready to go. You can add a little extra water to provide a bit more time).
  3. Fill the molds completely.
  4. Place hangers into your mold if you want to use them as ornaments or decorative pieces on wreaths. (Paper clips or pop can tab work great for an instant, inexpensive hangers).
  5. Allow your ornaments to dry.
  6. Gently remove the frogs from the molds. You may need to tap on the mold to loosen the frog.
  7. Paint the frog.

Now you are ready to display your very own Chocolate Frog.

 

Reference

Rowling, J. K., author. (1998). Harry Potter and the sorcerer’s stone. New York: Arthur A. Levine Books,

10 Days of Harry Potter: Fan Art

If you type “Harry Potter fan art” into your search engine, amazing and talented results will appear. J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World is an inspiration for artists of all levels. Making art is one of the best ways to celebrate 10 Days of Harry Potter. Whether you make graphic art or simply draw with a pencil, relax and enjoy making fan art.

Basic Art Supply List

Are you looking for a materials list? Check out the following for a basic supply list for making art.

  • Drawing pencils
  • Colored pencils
  • Markers
  • Ink
  • Chalk (Use chalk on paper or draw on the sidewalk to share your art)
  • Charcoal
  • Crayons
  • Paint
  • Watercolors
  • Drawing paper
  • Construction paper (Dark paper is great in combination with chalk)
  • Poster board
  • Glass frames (works well with ink and paint)

When you have a tight budget, purchase basic drawing materials at your local dollar store.

Use Your Imagination

  • What animal will you take to Hogwarts?
  • Draw your wand.
  • Create one of Hagrid’s magical creatures.
  • Draw the castle.
  • Paint your house colors on a poster board.
  • Draw yourself in the classroom. What would be your favorite subject at Hogwarts?
  • Draw a potion. What does the potion do?
  • Grab your sketch pad and find a perfect tree to sit under. Now, pretend you are at the Forest of Dean from the film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. What do you see?

There are no right or wrong ways to create fan art. Take your time, listen to Harry Potter on audio, and allow your imagination flow.

 

 

References

Rowling, J. K., author. (1998). Harry Potter and the sorcerer’s stone. New York: Arthur A. Levine Books,

Yates, D., Heyman, D., Barron, D., Rowling, J. K., Wigram, L., Kloves, S., Serra, E., … Warner Home Video (Firm),. (2011). Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1.

 

 

 

10 Days of Harry Potter

In J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, the main character, Harry Potter, was born on July 31, 1980. As of this year, 2020, Harry Potter turns 40 years old. Since most people are staying close to home, celebrating 10 Days of Harry Potter is a fun way to pass the time.

Ways to Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday

Thousands of people around the globe are part of the Wizarding World fandom. Are you wondering how to celebrate the incredible Wizarding World? Check out the following ideas below:

  • Read the Books: Whether you are reading the series for the first time or the 15th, find a secluded area and immerse yourself into the Wizarding World.
  • Listen to the Audiobooks: If you are a multi-tasker, listen to the audiobooks of the Harry Potter series. The narrators do a fantastic job of making the characters come alive.
  • Watch the Movies: From watching the movies over a week to binge-watching the whole series, enjoy watching the film from the beginning. Watching the Harry Potter series is a great family night activity.
  • Play Games: Board games, video games, or made-up games can provide entertainment while celebrating Harry Potter’s birthday.
  • Do Crafts: On a rainy afternoon, do crafts inspired Harry Potter themed crafts. From drawing to sculpting, making Wizarding World crafts is a wonderful way to celebrate the “boy who lived.” (Rowling, 1998).
  • Food: As Remus Lupin’s character states, “Eat, you’ll feel better.” (Rowling, 2010). Of course, Lupin was offering chocolate after a dementor attack. But still, the idea is the same. Yorkshire Pudding, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Bean, Pumpkin Pasties,  and the entire Hogwarts feast are an easy inspiration for trying themed Wizarding World recipes.
  • Host a Birthday Party: With social distancing, celebrating with friends or family may be difficult. But you can still host a birthday party for Harry Potter with your immediate family. Even if your baking skills are not the best, bake a cake, like Hagrid’s. “Anyway – Harry,” said the giant, turning his back on the Dursleys, “a very happy birthday to yeh. Got summat fer yeh here – I mighta sat on it at some point, but it’ll taste all right.”(Rowling, 1998).
  • Photo Session: Whether you have an entire cosplay outfit or your favorite Harry Potter t-shirt, set up a photo session. Use wands and other props. Recreate scenes. Take a lot of photos, print them, and make a scrapbook.

Having fun is the best way to celebrate the wonderful fictional character, Harry Potter’s birthday.

 

References:

Rowling, J. K. (1998). Harry Potter and the sorcerer’s stone. New York: Arthur A. Levine Books

Rowling, J. K. (2010). Harry Potter and the prisoner of Azkaban. London: Bloomsbury

Celebrating May the Fourth Be With You at Home

Celebrating George Lucas’ Star Wars, May 4th is known as May the Fourth Be With You. For diehard fans, the catch slogan is a play on words to the catchphrase “May the Force Be With You.” A general wish of good luck or goodwill as a person leaves to go on a mission. With social distancing and self-isolation, celebrating May the Fourth Be With You means staying close to home. But, the day still can be lots of fun.

How to Celebrate May the Fourth Be With You at Home

Beginning in May 1977, Star Wars enticed theater and drive-in goers around the globe. Through the years, other installments were released only to further the storyline. Today, fans enjoy movies, animated series, and a new television series, The Mandalorian, all adding to the beautiful world of the Star Wars franchise. So, how do you celebrate the day at home? Check out the following ideas:

Yes, I still own y VCR versions of Star Wars.
  • Binge-Watch: From the first Star Wars, the prequels and the sequels, there is plenty to binge to celebrate May the Fourth Be With You. Not to mention, the new series on Disney+, The Mandalorian, centering on The Child, the show provides hours of entertainment. For added fun, host an online watch party. Enjoy Star Wars with your friends.
  • Read: The Star Wars Universe has numerous books and comics. Grab your favorite blanket, cuddle with your four-legged companion, and just read.
  • Audio: If you are cleaning or doing yard work, try listening to Star Wars. The different stories are brought to life while you continue to do your work.
  • Play Games: Do you have a Star Wars-themed video game or board game? Today is the perfect day to play. Gather your family together, grab your favorite game, and have fun.
  • Set Up a Photo Shoot: Using a sheet or blanket as a backdrop, set up your own photo session. Wear your Star Wars apparel, act out scenes, and have fun with the extra time on your hands.
  • Get Crafty: Star Wars is full of unique characters and creatures. Use the different species as inspiration for crafts. For example, make homemade modeling clay (the recipe is on Pinterest). Use the clay to make a Star Wars-themed creature of your own.
  • Cook a Meal or Dessert: Ever tried galactic meatballs or out of this world spaghetti? Adding a space name to any food is an excellent way for children to enjoy the day without a lot of added fuss. Use your imagination, prepare an entire meal or snack with different names.

For avid fans of the franchise, celebrating May the Fourth Be With You is an added bonus. Due to the recent health issue, staying home is the norm for this year. But being indoors does not need to be boring. Enjoy your time together. Soon, the parks will open, conventions will be running, and you will be able to take part in larger celebrations. Until then, May the Force Be With You.

May the Force Be With You, always. This is actually above my kitchen sink.

 

 

How to Celebrate Make Up Your Own Holiday Day

Did you know today, March 26, is Make Up Your Own Holiday day? The holiday is perfect for entertaining children at home. The best part, there is no right or wrong answer to the celebration.

Ways to Celebrate Make Up Your Own Holiday Day

Get the entire family to participate. Ask questions. Enjoy your quality time. Do you need some inspiration? Check out the list below.

Food

Turn mealtime into a celebration. For example, a simple pasta dinner can quickly turn into a spaghetti celebration.

  • Placemats: Get creative. Make placemats out of construction paper or draw designs on plain notebook paper.
  • Decorations: Ask your children to draw or create decorations for the special holiday. Make a centerpiece for the table.
  • Create the Mood: Use your Christmas or special plate settings. Cut around the edges of paper plates to make distinctive designs.
  • Add a Treat: Bake a special dessert. Yes, cookies count.

Animal

Pick an animal to celebrate for the Make Up Your Own Holiday day. A wild animal, an ocean dweller, stuffed animal, or your favorite pet can be part of the celebration.

  • Draw: Use crayons or markers to draw a picture of the animal. Drawing is a great way to expand your child’s imagination. (Yes, you can draw too.)
  • Paint: Use watercolors, acrylics, or make your own paint to create a picture.
  • Story Time: Ask your child to write a story about the animal. If your child is young, write the story down.
  • Research: If celebrating a wild animal or a dinosaur, spend some time researching. Where does the animal live? How big does the animal get? What does the animal eat? Each answer is a great way to learn.

Place

Celebrate a place. The location can be anywhere in the world, outer space, fictional lands, or entirely imaginary.

  • Real Places: Learn about a different country. Base your evening meal on the country’s culture. Get creative. Do crafts about the country. Or simply just research and learn.
  • Outer Space: Learn about the planets, moon, black holes, or the stars.
  • Fictional Worlds: Celebrate the fictional places in your child’s favorite book or movie. For example, J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone introduce the reader to Hogsmeade. The fictional village is a perfect fictional location to celebrate Make Up Your Own Holiday day.

Movie or Book

Create a celebration focusing on a film or book. How many times have you watched the movies Frozen or Frozen 2? Or how many times have you or your family members read the Harry Potter series? Books and films are a fantastic resource to make up an unofficial holiday. The celebration can be as simple as watching a movie. Or elaborate as turning the entire day into craft activities, food, and fun.

Remember celebrating Make Up Your Own Holiday can be an excellent way to entertain your family while at home.