“The one leading to The Shrieking Shack. They didn’t see the boot.”
Harry recognized the old boot which Mr. Weasley had used as a port key to transport the Weasley Family and himself to the Quidditch World Cup.
“Very well then. We have two minutes before this portkey will go.”
At that moment Harry heard three cracks followed by a flash of green light illuminating the porch.
A man’s voice called out, “Lilly, take Harry and run!”
And he heard. Lord Voldemort’s high-pitched voice, “You don’t have to die. Step aside. Foolish. AVADA CADAVRA!” Another flash of green light.
“Harry! We have to get out of here.” Harry opened his eyes and saw a panic stricken Tonks looking down at him.
“What happened?” Harry asked rubbing his forehead, for the scar on his forehead singed with pain.
“You collapsed. You starrted saying something about someone not needing to die.”
“No time for camp fire stories.” Moody called out from the kitchen. “They’re out there. Must be at least seven Death Eaters, and they’re breaking through the enchantments quicker than I expected.”
“But I thought they’d already been here.”
“Sorry Harry.”
Harry let out a start. Mrs. Figg who had been lying doubled over, dead on the floor now stood up wiping her forehead with her hankie very much alive. Harry stuck out his wand toward Mrs. Figg. Just last year it had been heard that Lord Voldemort had employed the use of Inferi, corpses, to fight on his side. But clearly seeing that Mrs. Figg was as stumbley and stuttery as normal Harry retracted his wand.
“But you—“
“We didn’t know if He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named still had a connection through you.” Moody coughed, “We couldn’t take any chance of you knowing too much. We thought if you though the Death Eaters had already been here it would have confussed Voldermort. So we put a sleeping draft on Arabella to—“
“To fool me.”
“It’s not like that Harry. We had—“ Tonks tried to cut in.
“How do you expect me to trust you if you don’t tell me the plan?”
“The plan is to protect you, Harry. And we’ll take every precaution to do so. Enough. Reach for that photograph.”
Harry could feel his scar starting to burn, was it his anger, or Voldemorts? But this time he could hear voices, a man calling out “I don’t know anything. I’ve told you everything.”
He rubbed his head and looked toward Mrs. Figg. She was holding up the picture frame she had clutched in her hands when she laid on the floor dead. It was a picture of Dubledore. Harry looked into the Headmaster’s brilliant blue eyes,which sparkled beneath his half-moon spectacles.
“It’s a portkey.” Mrs. Figg said breaking Harry’s thoughts.
“Twenty seconds, then.” Tonks said.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Harry Potter... continued...
Part 2 of how Chapter 1 could have gone...
“No. From before he was murdered.” Harry felt the glimmer of hope disappear. But what was it? Why was Moody holding a letter from Dumbledore? “He had this ready to be delievered to me, just in case something happened to him.”
“What is it?” Tonks asked as she leaned against the kitchen door frame.
“Don’t know.”
“Well, open it then.” Tonks suggested.
“I would but it isn’t for me. And he put a sealing spell on it." Moody said with a strange expression on his face.
He hobbled over toward Uncle Vernon. Now stepping into the clear light of the home, Moody appeared much more serious and harsh. The gashes and cuts across his face could now be clearly seen. Petunia let out a start from behind Uncle Vernon and gripped on to the pink and orange afghan that covered his shoulders.
“Don’t you come nearer, you—you--” Uncle Vernon stammered attempting to sound brave.
“Oh quiet Dursley-- Silencia Quivo.” Moody flicked his wand at Uncle Vernon, causing all the sound from Uncle Vernon to fall silent.
Moody hobbled past Uncle Vernon who now was apparently attempting to scream as the veins in his neck popped out, and his mouth opened wider than Dudley’s on hamburger night. Moody handed the letter to Aunt Petunia. Aunt Petunia looked at Uncle Vernon, and then over to Harry.
As she looked down at the letter Harry stepped down to the bottom of the stairs. Harry could see the familiar curly green writing addressed to
To: Petunia Dursely
c/o Alabaster Moody
76 Hamption Court
Surry, England
Aunt Petunia looked all around the room. First toward the Kitchen where Tonks was now enjoying an apple, then to the door where the cat Mr. Tibbles sat guarding, and finally to the stairs where Harry stood. She stood there looking at Harry on the stairs for what seemed a long moment before Moody called out impatiently, “Oh open it already.”
Petunia held the letter she let go of Uncle Vernon and sat down on the settee. She undid her scarf and opened the letter slowly with her index finger.
As she did this a brilliant beam of silver light appeared from the envelope. The letter shone as the moon did on Hedwig. Aunt Petunia looked up at Moody, not disgusted nor appalled by his appearance, but as thought he knew everything she was about to read.
Number 4 was silent that is other than Dudley who carried on with his video games unknowingly. Aunt Petunia stood up. And in the blink of an eye the letter she had held burst into a flame of white and disappeared.
“Well?” Moody said examining Petunia with his regular and magical eye.
“I—I.”
Uncle Vernon let out a small grumble. It appeared as though the charm was wearing off of.
Approaching the stairs, Aunt Petunia walked apprehensively. Harry moved out of the way. She gave Harry a brief look. She knelt down on the first stair and turned back to look at Uncle Vernon.
“What—gree bugg—“ Uncle Vernon said fighting the charm off, “in the devil—gree bugg-- are you doin—gree bugg--- Petunia.”
“Ver—I---I’m sorry. I’ve kept it for all this time. He told me if I said anything, Harry would---I couldn’t.”
“Who told you?” Harry started in.
“When I give this to you I want no questions, boy. Is it understood? Everything’s in there. It’s all in there. But once you have it, you must leave. All of you must leave or—just leave.”
“Wha—“
Harry peered over Aunt Petunia’s shoulder and there he saw what she had been protecting. She was kneeling on the floor at the third stair, which was now opened like a trap door revealing a small wooden box. She picked up the box and dusted it off. She glanced back toward Moody and back to Harry. She handed him the box.
“What are you doing Petunia?”
“I’m sorry Vernon. I had to, he would have been killed.”
Harry looked at Aunt Petunia for the first time in a different way. He saw her eyes begin to turn slightly bloodshot as a tear rolled down her cheek. She stood up and wiped her eyes with the scarf.
“But where did you—how long did you—who is?”
“Go.” Petunia commanded, “You have what you need. Just go!”
Harry stood there looking at Aunt Petunia. What was this box? Why had she hidden it and why did she need to keep it from Uncle Vernon? Harry thought to question her, but he looked over to her again and saw tears streaming down her face as she held her head in her hands.
Tonks bolted up the stairs. He heard Dudley let out a scream. Aunt Petunia who would normally cater to Dudley’s every whim just sat on the stairs staring at the floor, trying to avoid eye contact with the others. Dudley came running down the stairs nearly knocking Petunia over.
“Who is she? What is she? What is that thing upstairs, Mummy? Daddy?”
“Come here Duders.” Vernon said motioning Dudley over. Dudley waddled across the hallway not even looking twice at his mother.
“They’ve just come to get him.”
“What’s mummy doing?”
“I—I—I mean she’s—“ Vernon stuttered.
“I’m sorry Vernon, he said if I ever told you they’d come and—“ Petunia began sobbing. Harry was dumbfounded. He had never seen his Aunt act this way.
“Right, Harry. You have your things. Do you have your wand?”
“Got it. Recendo Harry.” Tonks chanted sending his wand flying through the air into Harry’s hands.
“Right. Let’s be off then.” Moody instructed.
“Wait.” Petunia called out.
A silence fell over the house.
“What if they come?”
“What the devil are you on about Petunia? You’re not well.”
“What if they come?”
“The guard will come.” Moody replied, glaring at Uncle Vernon.
“How will we know?”
“You’ll know. They won’t be coming after you, they’ll be helping you. Now we have to leave.”
Harry turned to leave. He wondered if he would ever see the Durselys again. He started to say goodbye when Petunia shouted, “Just leave us alone, boy. Haven’t you caused enough problems?”
Harry huffed, and followed Moody out the door.
The four figures headed out into the abandoned streets. Lead by Mr. Tibbles, followed by Mad Eye with Harry right behind and Tonks bringing up the rear.
“Where are we going?”
“Sanctuary, Harry.” Moody responded, “Sanctuary.”
“Where?” Harry questioned still not clear on the quartet’s plan.
“We need to get somewhere they wouldn’t expect to look for you. I’ve set up a port key at Arabella’s that will take us there.”
As they approached the home of Arabella Figg, Tonks let out a start. “Oh Mad Eye! Look!”
To a passerby the residence of Mrs. Figg would look quaint and cozy, but Harry and Moody both saw what Tonks had noticed, the door to Mrs. Figg’s home lay open. Just slightly letting the strange chill passed the door.
“Wands at the ready then.” Mad Eye commanded, “Harry you stay near. You understand? No matter what you see or think you see, you stay near.”
“Yes, sir.” Harry said.
Mad Eye was now scanning the house with his magical eye. “Tonks you and Mr. Tibbles you go around back. This looks like the work of Dementors.”
Harry remembered his last encounter with a dementor when he and Dudley had encountered the dementor. He remembered watching Dudley squeam on the ground, riddled with pain and sorrow. And then the dementor revealing his lips, to kiss Dudley. Harry shuddered remembering when he encountered a dementor at Hogwarts.
“Harry! Harry!” Moody called.
“Sorry sir.”
“Stop day dreaming and follow me.”
Harry removed his wand, and followed Moody up the cobblestone path. Moody walked just two steps ahead of him. When they arrived to the front door Harry could see inside, touched by the stale street lamps Mrs. Figg lay on the floor. Moody burst through the door.
“Tonks! Send out the signal.” Mood called.
From the kitchen window Harry could see a blaze of silver light shoot up into the air. And the sound of a sweet song piercing the silence of the night.
“What happ—“ Harry started to question what had happened to Mrs. Figg, but there he saw exactly what it was. She had been given the dementor’s kiss. It was clear to Harry because of the curled up position her body was in. Her face was wrought with discomfort and in her hands she clutched onto a framed photograph and a lace hankerchief.
“How did they get in here?” Tonks said sounding out of breath.
“Must have used a counter-charm to break the protection we put on it. That means they know we’re here. We have to get Harry out of here before they get to him.”
“Who is it? Lord Voldemort.”
Tonks flinched.
“No not him, more than likely a couple of Death Eater, and a Dementor by the looks of it.”
“But wouldn’t a Death Eater have cast the Dark Mark above the house?”
“Not if there wasn’t enough time. Look here, Arabella was attempting to stop them.”
Harry looked over to the kitchen where Tonks was standing. He could see a broken vase and
“Right Harry. Where is it?”
“Where is what?”
“The portkey! They must have found it.”
“Who?
“No. From before he was murdered.” Harry felt the glimmer of hope disappear. But what was it? Why was Moody holding a letter from Dumbledore? “He had this ready to be delievered to me, just in case something happened to him.”
“What is it?” Tonks asked as she leaned against the kitchen door frame.
“Don’t know.”
“Well, open it then.” Tonks suggested.
“I would but it isn’t for me. And he put a sealing spell on it." Moody said with a strange expression on his face.
He hobbled over toward Uncle Vernon. Now stepping into the clear light of the home, Moody appeared much more serious and harsh. The gashes and cuts across his face could now be clearly seen. Petunia let out a start from behind Uncle Vernon and gripped on to the pink and orange afghan that covered his shoulders.
“Don’t you come nearer, you—you--” Uncle Vernon stammered attempting to sound brave.
“Oh quiet Dursley-- Silencia Quivo.” Moody flicked his wand at Uncle Vernon, causing all the sound from Uncle Vernon to fall silent.
Moody hobbled past Uncle Vernon who now was apparently attempting to scream as the veins in his neck popped out, and his mouth opened wider than Dudley’s on hamburger night. Moody handed the letter to Aunt Petunia. Aunt Petunia looked at Uncle Vernon, and then over to Harry.
As she looked down at the letter Harry stepped down to the bottom of the stairs. Harry could see the familiar curly green writing addressed to
To: Petunia Dursely
c/o Alabaster Moody
76 Hamption Court
Surry, England
Aunt Petunia looked all around the room. First toward the Kitchen where Tonks was now enjoying an apple, then to the door where the cat Mr. Tibbles sat guarding, and finally to the stairs where Harry stood. She stood there looking at Harry on the stairs for what seemed a long moment before Moody called out impatiently, “Oh open it already.”
Petunia held the letter she let go of Uncle Vernon and sat down on the settee. She undid her scarf and opened the letter slowly with her index finger.
As she did this a brilliant beam of silver light appeared from the envelope. The letter shone as the moon did on Hedwig. Aunt Petunia looked up at Moody, not disgusted nor appalled by his appearance, but as thought he knew everything she was about to read.
Number 4 was silent that is other than Dudley who carried on with his video games unknowingly. Aunt Petunia stood up. And in the blink of an eye the letter she had held burst into a flame of white and disappeared.
“Well?” Moody said examining Petunia with his regular and magical eye.
“I—I.”
Uncle Vernon let out a small grumble. It appeared as though the charm was wearing off of.
Approaching the stairs, Aunt Petunia walked apprehensively. Harry moved out of the way. She gave Harry a brief look. She knelt down on the first stair and turned back to look at Uncle Vernon.
“What—gree bugg—“ Uncle Vernon said fighting the charm off, “in the devil—gree bugg-- are you doin—gree bugg--- Petunia.”
“Ver—I---I’m sorry. I’ve kept it for all this time. He told me if I said anything, Harry would---I couldn’t.”
“Who told you?” Harry started in.
“When I give this to you I want no questions, boy. Is it understood? Everything’s in there. It’s all in there. But once you have it, you must leave. All of you must leave or—just leave.”
“Wha—“
Harry peered over Aunt Petunia’s shoulder and there he saw what she had been protecting. She was kneeling on the floor at the third stair, which was now opened like a trap door revealing a small wooden box. She picked up the box and dusted it off. She glanced back toward Moody and back to Harry. She handed him the box.
“What are you doing Petunia?”
“I’m sorry Vernon. I had to, he would have been killed.”
Harry looked at Aunt Petunia for the first time in a different way. He saw her eyes begin to turn slightly bloodshot as a tear rolled down her cheek. She stood up and wiped her eyes with the scarf.
“But where did you—how long did you—who is?”
“Go.” Petunia commanded, “You have what you need. Just go!”
Harry stood there looking at Aunt Petunia. What was this box? Why had she hidden it and why did she need to keep it from Uncle Vernon? Harry thought to question her, but he looked over to her again and saw tears streaming down her face as she held her head in her hands.
Tonks bolted up the stairs. He heard Dudley let out a scream. Aunt Petunia who would normally cater to Dudley’s every whim just sat on the stairs staring at the floor, trying to avoid eye contact with the others. Dudley came running down the stairs nearly knocking Petunia over.
“Who is she? What is she? What is that thing upstairs, Mummy? Daddy?”
“Come here Duders.” Vernon said motioning Dudley over. Dudley waddled across the hallway not even looking twice at his mother.
“They’ve just come to get him.”
“What’s mummy doing?”
“I—I—I mean she’s—“ Vernon stuttered.
“I’m sorry Vernon, he said if I ever told you they’d come and—“ Petunia began sobbing. Harry was dumbfounded. He had never seen his Aunt act this way.
“Right, Harry. You have your things. Do you have your wand?”
“Got it. Recendo Harry.” Tonks chanted sending his wand flying through the air into Harry’s hands.
“Right. Let’s be off then.” Moody instructed.
“Wait.” Petunia called out.
A silence fell over the house.
“What if they come?”
“What the devil are you on about Petunia? You’re not well.”
“What if they come?”
“The guard will come.” Moody replied, glaring at Uncle Vernon.
“How will we know?”
“You’ll know. They won’t be coming after you, they’ll be helping you. Now we have to leave.”
Harry turned to leave. He wondered if he would ever see the Durselys again. He started to say goodbye when Petunia shouted, “Just leave us alone, boy. Haven’t you caused enough problems?”
Harry huffed, and followed Moody out the door.
The four figures headed out into the abandoned streets. Lead by Mr. Tibbles, followed by Mad Eye with Harry right behind and Tonks bringing up the rear.
“Where are we going?”
“Sanctuary, Harry.” Moody responded, “Sanctuary.”
“Where?” Harry questioned still not clear on the quartet’s plan.
“We need to get somewhere they wouldn’t expect to look for you. I’ve set up a port key at Arabella’s that will take us there.”
As they approached the home of Arabella Figg, Tonks let out a start. “Oh Mad Eye! Look!”
To a passerby the residence of Mrs. Figg would look quaint and cozy, but Harry and Moody both saw what Tonks had noticed, the door to Mrs. Figg’s home lay open. Just slightly letting the strange chill passed the door.
“Wands at the ready then.” Mad Eye commanded, “Harry you stay near. You understand? No matter what you see or think you see, you stay near.”
“Yes, sir.” Harry said.
Mad Eye was now scanning the house with his magical eye. “Tonks you and Mr. Tibbles you go around back. This looks like the work of Dementors.”
Harry remembered his last encounter with a dementor when he and Dudley had encountered the dementor. He remembered watching Dudley squeam on the ground, riddled with pain and sorrow. And then the dementor revealing his lips, to kiss Dudley. Harry shuddered remembering when he encountered a dementor at Hogwarts.
“Harry! Harry!” Moody called.
“Sorry sir.”
“Stop day dreaming and follow me.”
Harry removed his wand, and followed Moody up the cobblestone path. Moody walked just two steps ahead of him. When they arrived to the front door Harry could see inside, touched by the stale street lamps Mrs. Figg lay on the floor. Moody burst through the door.
“Tonks! Send out the signal.” Mood called.
From the kitchen window Harry could see a blaze of silver light shoot up into the air. And the sound of a sweet song piercing the silence of the night.
“What happ—“ Harry started to question what had happened to Mrs. Figg, but there he saw exactly what it was. She had been given the dementor’s kiss. It was clear to Harry because of the curled up position her body was in. Her face was wrought with discomfort and in her hands she clutched onto a framed photograph and a lace hankerchief.
“How did they get in here?” Tonks said sounding out of breath.
“Must have used a counter-charm to break the protection we put on it. That means they know we’re here. We have to get Harry out of here before they get to him.”
“Who is it? Lord Voldemort.”
Tonks flinched.
“No not him, more than likely a couple of Death Eater, and a Dementor by the looks of it.”
“But wouldn’t a Death Eater have cast the Dark Mark above the house?”
“Not if there wasn’t enough time. Look here, Arabella was attempting to stop them.”
Harry looked over to the kitchen where Tonks was standing. He could see a broken vase and
“Right Harry. Where is it?”
“Where is what?”
“The portkey! They must have found it.”
“Who?
Friday, July 27, 2007
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Maybe this is how Chapter 1 could have gone...
Chapter 1
Privet Drive’s Secret
The harsh summer breeze lashed through the trees that lined the homes on Privet Drive. The boiling summer heat that the residents had experienced just a few years ago had vanished. This year all over the neighborhood, and through all of England for that matter, residents were hibernating in their homes. All across the countryside the rumbling of furnaces blazing to fight the strange cold could be heard echoing in the near silence of the streets.
Every night on Privet Drive cats, birds, and other creatures who dared to brace the cold weather witnessed the same routine: The businessmen and women on Privet Drive rushed home from their jobs bundled up in scarves, gloves, and hats and scurry into their homes in a matter of seconds attempting to avoid the cold. The jingling of keys and locking of doors could be heard as residents secured every lock and window to keep the cold out. Yet it was a losing battle, for this was not a normal type of cold that any man could seem to keep out.
But in the brilliant moonlight of that night, if one were looking, they would have seen one window quietly creek open on the top floor of Number 4. Just inside that window, a skinny, black haired boy sat shivering by the windowpane attempting to push a white snowy owl out the window into the night.
“Come on, Hedwig.” He said nudging her along, “Just this last letter to Ron. Before I head to The Burrow. Come on, I promise.”
Hedwig looked at the boy and begrudgingly stepped down onto the windowpane. But before flying out into misty night, she turned and nipped at the boy’s hand just as a reminder to keep his promise. Harry Potter watched as his beautiful owl’s wings shimmered against the moonlight.
It had been two weeks since Harry had last convinced Hedwig to bear the cold. Its not as though she wasn’t use to it, what with the snowy weather during the winter months at Hogwarts, but this cold---this cold was different. Not the typical cold that a scarf and mittens could protect you from. This cold was something else.
Harry’s Aunt and Uncle, who like all Muggle folks, had dismissed the cold as “Fluke weather.” And “Typical ruddy weather to spoil the holiday.” But Harry, and most of the Wizarding World, knew the truth. For this wasn’t a normal cold wave that had hit, this had something to do with Lord Voldemort. For, this last year Harry had watched as Lord Voldemort had gained power, the Death Eaters, the Dementors, the Dark Mark hovering over Hogwarts, and--- Dumbledore.
All of the terrible thoughts that flooded Harry’s dreams came to his mind: Being frozen with his father’s invisibility cloak over him, Draco Malfoy standing there attempting to kill an already wounded Dumbledore, and then Professor Snape bursting up to the tall tower pointing his wand at Dumbledore and shouting “Avada Kadavra.”
Harry felt his hand unknowingly begin to grip on to his wand in anger but remembered that there was nothing he could do, at least for now. Snape had run away with the other Death Eaters and had taken Malfoy. And since Dumbledore’s death there had been no word from Hogwarts. No word as to what would happen to the students, if it were even safe to go back to Hogwarts. Not that it mattered, because Harry knew that he wasn’t going back. Just this past year, Harry had learned that he was the one, the only one who could bring the Dark Lord down. This year, Harry was ready to face his fate and bring down He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.
Yet he had promised Dumbledore that he would remain in the “care” of his aunt and uncle, because of the spells and enchantments Dumbledore himself had put on the house. Harry remembered how amusing it was seeing The Dursley’s reactions to having someone so “un-Dursleyish” in the home as Dumbledore. Harry woke up from the safety of his memories and felt his body go cold. He quickly shut the window and noticed Hedwig was out of site.
Harry heard the familiar rumble of the furnace from the basement kick in followed by the rumble of his own stomach. He walked out of his room and down the stairs. Just before he reached the bottom steps he heard the television from the living room.
“In related news,” the newsreader recited, “Another series of abnormal behavior has been captured on CCTV. This footage you’re watching shows a man in a dark colored cloak suddenly appearing near the Tower Bridge in London. If you watch closely you’ll see he’s pulling something from behind his cloak that appears to be a thin knife like object. Just out of shot we can see the bobby on guard fall over apparently stabbed. However, according to autopsy reports acquired by Channel 2, the coroner detailed that there were no stab wounds, and the bobby appears to have died of shock.
“London officials aren’t commenting on this peculiar scene, but they are saying the man in the cloak may also be involved in the overturned buses in Kent earlier this week. The Prime Minister, had this comment to make, ‘While the current state of the nation seems uneasy, I urge everyone to rest assured that we have contacted the--- proper guard to assist in defending the good people of Britain.’
“As for other news, the weather…”
Harry continued down the stairs, stepping lightly on the third step, knowing its tendency to squeak. “Absolute rubbish.” Uncle Vernon bellowed from beneath his pile of blankets and scarves, “Ruddy lot of weirdos running around the country, these days.”
Harry could hear Aunt Petunia respond with the typical stirring of sugar into her tea. As of late, or that is since last year upon Dumbledore’s visit to the Dursely’s, Aunt Petunia had held her tongue much more than she had in the past when it came to anything having to do with “weirdoes.” Harry leaned forward and saw Aunt Petunia pull her scarf tightly around her neck. As Harry looked over she caught glimpse of him and gave out a start. “You there. What are you doing here---Where’s Dudders?”
“I’m just listening to the news.” Harry heard.
“Where’s my Dudders?” she said in a voice that sounded far more demanding.
“I—“ Harry started in, but the usual sound of Dudley cursing at his computer games was heard. Aunt Petunia returned to stirring her tea and ignoring Harry.
Harry walked toward the kitchen where he hopped to find some of the leftovers that the Dursley’s had eaten for dinner that evening.
***
Soon the news was coming to a close. Uncle Vernon had now become completed covered in afghans and quilts and now resembled something of a small hill with a face peaking out.
“What the blazes is someone doing walking in this cold?”
Harry and Aunt Petunia glanced over to the large bay window to see who Uncle Vernon was looking at. But as they turned they saw the person turn up the walkway toward Number 4.
“Vernon!” Petunia let out a shriek as she jumped behind Mr. Dursley. “It’s them!”
Uncle Vernon stood up, causing the mountain of afghans and quilts to fall to the ground. Mr. Dursley jumped up and moved quickly around the settee. Uncle Vernon hoisted up his shotgun in his hands.
“Oh I’m ready for the weirdoes now.” Harry was reminded of the gun that Hagrid had bent it nearly 6 years ago. Who could it possibly be? Harry knew that Dumbledore had ensured his protection if he remained with the Dursley’s.
But just as Vernon held the gun up, there was a loud crack from behind the front door, and then a beam of silverfish colored light shone through the keyhole. Petunia let out a shriek. The door had opened, and there crouched over where the keyhole would have been was a man with a large budging eye that shimmered in that eerie shade of silver amidst the evening sky.
“Right, Harry. What are you looking at?” the man said as he looked over at Uncle Vernon once with his regular eye, and then again with his Magical eye.
“What the hell are you doing here you, you—you--weirdo.” Mr. Dursley said sounding a bit afraid, “We haven’t laid a finger on him.”
“I know you haven’t. Arabella’s been watching you with Mr. Tibbles.”
“Who the---“
But just at that moment Harry and the Dursley saw the large grayish cat that was standing just behind Moody come into clear site. The cat stared at Mr. Dursley. Mr. Dursley let out a start, “Don’t you bring that beast in here, or I’ll use this.” He motioned toward his gun, which he was holding upside down.
“Harry. There you are. Get your things we’re going.”
Harry walked back to the stairs, and wanted to run up and grab his trunk, but he remembered that just three years ago the person he thought was Mad Eye Moody had turned out to be an imposter.
“Ay. I see you’re wondering if I’m the real one.”
“Well I,” Harry said trying to sound trusting.
“I picked you up here two years ago the same way. The others will be here shortly. Tonks should.”
There was a large crack from behind the kitchen. Aunt Petunia ran behind Uncle Vernon.
“Hey there Harry.” Came a sweet sounding voice from the kitchen. The person moved in toward the hallway, exposing her brilliant pink hair.
“Tonks!” Harry said as he moved toward her. “Is Lup—“
“No, the old wolf ain’t coming tonight, just me and old Mad Eye. Oh—sorry I mean Moody.”
“You can’t lay a finger on him!” Uncle Vernon chirped.
“Harry, you have your things?” Tonks said ignoring Mr. Dursley.
“Yeah, I haven’t packed up, but I can—What is it?’ Harry asked looking over a Moody. Moody was looking at Aunt Petunia.
“Oh never mind that. Nymphadora,” Moody said trying to tuck the letter under his cloak, “Gather Harry’s things. Harry you stay with me. “
“Anything special you got hidin’ up in your room Harry?” Tonks asked.
“No, everything should be in my trunk.”
Harry could see from where he was standing on the stairs that Moody was holding an envelope. And from his distance Harry could just make out that it was addressed in green, curly writing.
“Who is that from?” Harry asked with a breath of hope.
“Ay. It’s from Dumbledore.”
“But he’s—“
Chapter 1
Privet Drive’s Secret
The harsh summer breeze lashed through the trees that lined the homes on Privet Drive. The boiling summer heat that the residents had experienced just a few years ago had vanished. This year all over the neighborhood, and through all of England for that matter, residents were hibernating in their homes. All across the countryside the rumbling of furnaces blazing to fight the strange cold could be heard echoing in the near silence of the streets.
Every night on Privet Drive cats, birds, and other creatures who dared to brace the cold weather witnessed the same routine: The businessmen and women on Privet Drive rushed home from their jobs bundled up in scarves, gloves, and hats and scurry into their homes in a matter of seconds attempting to avoid the cold. The jingling of keys and locking of doors could be heard as residents secured every lock and window to keep the cold out. Yet it was a losing battle, for this was not a normal type of cold that any man could seem to keep out.
But in the brilliant moonlight of that night, if one were looking, they would have seen one window quietly creek open on the top floor of Number 4. Just inside that window, a skinny, black haired boy sat shivering by the windowpane attempting to push a white snowy owl out the window into the night.
“Come on, Hedwig.” He said nudging her along, “Just this last letter to Ron. Before I head to The Burrow. Come on, I promise.”
Hedwig looked at the boy and begrudgingly stepped down onto the windowpane. But before flying out into misty night, she turned and nipped at the boy’s hand just as a reminder to keep his promise. Harry Potter watched as his beautiful owl’s wings shimmered against the moonlight.
It had been two weeks since Harry had last convinced Hedwig to bear the cold. Its not as though she wasn’t use to it, what with the snowy weather during the winter months at Hogwarts, but this cold---this cold was different. Not the typical cold that a scarf and mittens could protect you from. This cold was something else.
Harry’s Aunt and Uncle, who like all Muggle folks, had dismissed the cold as “Fluke weather.” And “Typical ruddy weather to spoil the holiday.” But Harry, and most of the Wizarding World, knew the truth. For this wasn’t a normal cold wave that had hit, this had something to do with Lord Voldemort. For, this last year Harry had watched as Lord Voldemort had gained power, the Death Eaters, the Dementors, the Dark Mark hovering over Hogwarts, and--- Dumbledore.
All of the terrible thoughts that flooded Harry’s dreams came to his mind: Being frozen with his father’s invisibility cloak over him, Draco Malfoy standing there attempting to kill an already wounded Dumbledore, and then Professor Snape bursting up to the tall tower pointing his wand at Dumbledore and shouting “Avada Kadavra.”
Harry felt his hand unknowingly begin to grip on to his wand in anger but remembered that there was nothing he could do, at least for now. Snape had run away with the other Death Eaters and had taken Malfoy. And since Dumbledore’s death there had been no word from Hogwarts. No word as to what would happen to the students, if it were even safe to go back to Hogwarts. Not that it mattered, because Harry knew that he wasn’t going back. Just this past year, Harry had learned that he was the one, the only one who could bring the Dark Lord down. This year, Harry was ready to face his fate and bring down He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.
Yet he had promised Dumbledore that he would remain in the “care” of his aunt and uncle, because of the spells and enchantments Dumbledore himself had put on the house. Harry remembered how amusing it was seeing The Dursley’s reactions to having someone so “un-Dursleyish” in the home as Dumbledore. Harry woke up from the safety of his memories and felt his body go cold. He quickly shut the window and noticed Hedwig was out of site.
Harry heard the familiar rumble of the furnace from the basement kick in followed by the rumble of his own stomach. He walked out of his room and down the stairs. Just before he reached the bottom steps he heard the television from the living room.
“In related news,” the newsreader recited, “Another series of abnormal behavior has been captured on CCTV. This footage you’re watching shows a man in a dark colored cloak suddenly appearing near the Tower Bridge in London. If you watch closely you’ll see he’s pulling something from behind his cloak that appears to be a thin knife like object. Just out of shot we can see the bobby on guard fall over apparently stabbed. However, according to autopsy reports acquired by Channel 2, the coroner detailed that there were no stab wounds, and the bobby appears to have died of shock.
“London officials aren’t commenting on this peculiar scene, but they are saying the man in the cloak may also be involved in the overturned buses in Kent earlier this week. The Prime Minister, had this comment to make, ‘While the current state of the nation seems uneasy, I urge everyone to rest assured that we have contacted the--- proper guard to assist in defending the good people of Britain.’
“As for other news, the weather…”
Harry continued down the stairs, stepping lightly on the third step, knowing its tendency to squeak. “Absolute rubbish.” Uncle Vernon bellowed from beneath his pile of blankets and scarves, “Ruddy lot of weirdos running around the country, these days.”
Harry could hear Aunt Petunia respond with the typical stirring of sugar into her tea. As of late, or that is since last year upon Dumbledore’s visit to the Dursely’s, Aunt Petunia had held her tongue much more than she had in the past when it came to anything having to do with “weirdoes.” Harry leaned forward and saw Aunt Petunia pull her scarf tightly around her neck. As Harry looked over she caught glimpse of him and gave out a start. “You there. What are you doing here---Where’s Dudders?”
“I’m just listening to the news.” Harry heard.
“Where’s my Dudders?” she said in a voice that sounded far more demanding.
“I—“ Harry started in, but the usual sound of Dudley cursing at his computer games was heard. Aunt Petunia returned to stirring her tea and ignoring Harry.
Harry walked toward the kitchen where he hopped to find some of the leftovers that the Dursley’s had eaten for dinner that evening.
***
Soon the news was coming to a close. Uncle Vernon had now become completed covered in afghans and quilts and now resembled something of a small hill with a face peaking out.
“What the blazes is someone doing walking in this cold?”
Harry and Aunt Petunia glanced over to the large bay window to see who Uncle Vernon was looking at. But as they turned they saw the person turn up the walkway toward Number 4.
“Vernon!” Petunia let out a shriek as she jumped behind Mr. Dursley. “It’s them!”
Uncle Vernon stood up, causing the mountain of afghans and quilts to fall to the ground. Mr. Dursley jumped up and moved quickly around the settee. Uncle Vernon hoisted up his shotgun in his hands.
“Oh I’m ready for the weirdoes now.” Harry was reminded of the gun that Hagrid had bent it nearly 6 years ago. Who could it possibly be? Harry knew that Dumbledore had ensured his protection if he remained with the Dursley’s.
But just as Vernon held the gun up, there was a loud crack from behind the front door, and then a beam of silverfish colored light shone through the keyhole. Petunia let out a shriek. The door had opened, and there crouched over where the keyhole would have been was a man with a large budging eye that shimmered in that eerie shade of silver amidst the evening sky.
“Right, Harry. What are you looking at?” the man said as he looked over at Uncle Vernon once with his regular eye, and then again with his Magical eye.
“What the hell are you doing here you, you—you--weirdo.” Mr. Dursley said sounding a bit afraid, “We haven’t laid a finger on him.”
“I know you haven’t. Arabella’s been watching you with Mr. Tibbles.”
“Who the---“
But just at that moment Harry and the Dursley saw the large grayish cat that was standing just behind Moody come into clear site. The cat stared at Mr. Dursley. Mr. Dursley let out a start, “Don’t you bring that beast in here, or I’ll use this.” He motioned toward his gun, which he was holding upside down.
“Harry. There you are. Get your things we’re going.”
Harry walked back to the stairs, and wanted to run up and grab his trunk, but he remembered that just three years ago the person he thought was Mad Eye Moody had turned out to be an imposter.
“Ay. I see you’re wondering if I’m the real one.”
“Well I,” Harry said trying to sound trusting.
“I picked you up here two years ago the same way. The others will be here shortly. Tonks should.”
There was a large crack from behind the kitchen. Aunt Petunia ran behind Uncle Vernon.
“Hey there Harry.” Came a sweet sounding voice from the kitchen. The person moved in toward the hallway, exposing her brilliant pink hair.
“Tonks!” Harry said as he moved toward her. “Is Lup—“
“No, the old wolf ain’t coming tonight, just me and old Mad Eye. Oh—sorry I mean Moody.”
“You can’t lay a finger on him!” Uncle Vernon chirped.
“Harry, you have your things?” Tonks said ignoring Mr. Dursley.
“Yeah, I haven’t packed up, but I can—What is it?’ Harry asked looking over a Moody. Moody was looking at Aunt Petunia.
“Oh never mind that. Nymphadora,” Moody said trying to tuck the letter under his cloak, “Gather Harry’s things. Harry you stay with me. “
“Anything special you got hidin’ up in your room Harry?” Tonks asked.
“No, everything should be in my trunk.”
Harry could see from where he was standing on the stairs that Moody was holding an envelope. And from his distance Harry could just make out that it was addressed in green, curly writing.
“Who is that from?” Harry asked with a breath of hope.
“Ay. It’s from Dumbledore.”
“But he’s—“
Evening
Last night the lovely Fauf and I ventured to San Luis Obispo and caught the big name movie "Evening." I had my doubts about this one, but I really liked it.
The story is about a woman who is reflecting and lamenting on her life. The woman, Ann, remembers her best friend's wedding, a weekend where the choices she made affected her whole perspective of her life. Strangely I really liked this film. It could have been the optimism shared by the writer and the director, or perhaps it was the really good musical score, then again maybe it was the list of incredible actresses and actors on the bill. I'm just saying... Good stuff.
The movie's big message is to realize life will fall apart, you can't do everything perfect, you needn't hide behind false pretenses... but you should never stop living life.
Optimistic, yes. Delightful, yup.
The scent of spaghetti is in the air, yet I was served a rice cake and peanut butter meal with a large glass of Diet Coke.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
The Nest Version 2.0
Well, with the lovely Farah adding her presence to The Nest we have revitalized six of the eight areas in our home including the dining room, the kitchen, the porch, the living room, the writing room, and the full bathroom. We still have to finish the master bedroom and the half bath downstairs.
So here is a look at The Nest version 2.0.
Wha la!
So here is a look at The Nest version 2.0.
Wha la!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Merry July 25, 2007
Merry Christmas You Filthy Boofers. Well, I am 5 months early, but in The Nesting Shaw's House we celebrated Christmas, or the advent of Christmas. So here are some shots from the BOOF surprise Christmas Party I threw for the Fauf. Enjoy.
Christmas setting for two.
How about a little love note in the stocking?
Oh! Recycled Teacher-Christmas gifts! It really feels like a Shaw Christmas.
Wonderful tree. Lovely gnomes---strike that I mean elves.
Milk and Cookies anyone?
If you don't like it. Take it back, but we love it.
Boof.
Christmas setting for two.
How about a little love note in the stocking?
Oh! Recycled Teacher-Christmas gifts! It really feels like a Shaw Christmas.
Wonderful tree. Lovely gnomes---strike that I mean elves.
Milk and Cookies anyone?
If you don't like it. Take it back, but we love it.
Boof.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
F*R*I*E*N*D*S
So every so often the Amazing Fauf and I get together to discuss who our friends are. No, no, not you people who actually read our blog. We pay homage to you during the Iggy's. No, at this time we were discussing people who we find absolutely ridiculous or completely lovely. So here you go, our current list of wonderful friends, mostly just the new ones, dahling:
First may I present Chet. The lovable, adorable, magnificent Chet. He married us, he sings, he dances, and gosh darn it he looks like a gnome. There you have it:
Joining the ranks this time is that lovable Nicolette. Yes, you've heard about her on Farah's blog, now you can see her on mine. Source: Charles Dwyer and his amazing art. We love him and do hope that we can one day afford a piece of his fantastic stuff.
And then there was Donna. Oh, we thought her a fool at first. Telling us with a wink of her brown eye, a portrait was "Very affordable" at "Only 3000 dollars... out the door." But then when she set Nicolette in the Show Room and with a disappearing whisper of excitement she called out, "Let me just adjust the lights, and notice how her bodice changes to looking like a nude and then a boa." And then, in the blink of her blue eye we changed our mind. Oh Donna, we missed you on Wednesday, how we longed to have you adjust the lights and not some has-been leather relator, you were the best artist developer we saw in all of Carmel, we didn't value you! FORGIVE US! We long for you Donna, your blond hair and lovely voice. Oh how we miss you.
[no picture is on file for the amazing Donna]
Next we find Dancing Cheryl coming down the lane. She was a hoot to say the least. She reminded me of a more haggard Jennifer Coolidge. She was totally into the music and was hysterical to watch during the Main Street Commemorative Disneyland Birthday Celebration. Cheryl, here's to you!
Following behind Cheryl is the Waitress Nazi, Suzette. Unfortunately Suzette is camera shy. However she is a bit bulshy, so if you ask her, "Now does your bisque have cream?" She'll simply, and ever so gently spit at you "Bisque is Cream." and then waltz away to the sounds of "Do you know..." But honestly who can trust the head waitress who tells you "Full" isn't on the Dessert Menu. A five star waitress...
Following in the lines of strong women comes Lady Ursula. Yes, you must say LADY or else it isn't as fun. Ever notice how there seems to be a lot more women dressing and looking like Ursula lately? Even on America's Got Talent.... Well here's to you all the Lady Ursulas of the World...
Speaking of Disney Villains, this past week I had the opportunity to meet up with Farah's favorite villain, Curella DeVill. She was hysterical and rude. One glance at me, even after my "You look lovely dahling." comment, she said, "I wish I could say the same for you. What on earth are you wearing? You look like someone covered you in bad wall paper. Honestly." Here's to a witty lady with killer style...
Speaking of people who make life miserable, let's talk about someone who has a miserable life: Suicidal Billie. Her lousy life where all she does is sing for the man and get beat by him too, but she loves him. Oh well life could be worse, poor thingy. She had to sing all those songs about her man cheating on her, two-timing her, what a joke. Honestly Billie, you were better off with out him...
So if you weren't selected this time as a friend, please drop us a comment here on my blog. If you were selected and you would like to find your way out of the friend's list, please drop us a comment and three reasons why you should be off the list. If you are dead, please ignore this message.
First may I present Chet. The lovable, adorable, magnificent Chet. He married us, he sings, he dances, and gosh darn it he looks like a gnome. There you have it:
Joining the ranks this time is that lovable Nicolette. Yes, you've heard about her on Farah's blog, now you can see her on mine. Source: Charles Dwyer and his amazing art. We love him and do hope that we can one day afford a piece of his fantastic stuff.
And then there was Donna. Oh, we thought her a fool at first. Telling us with a wink of her brown eye, a portrait was "Very affordable" at "Only 3000 dollars... out the door." But then when she set Nicolette in the Show Room and with a disappearing whisper of excitement she called out, "Let me just adjust the lights, and notice how her bodice changes to looking like a nude and then a boa." And then, in the blink of her blue eye we changed our mind. Oh Donna, we missed you on Wednesday, how we longed to have you adjust the lights and not some has-been leather relator, you were the best artist developer we saw in all of Carmel, we didn't value you! FORGIVE US! We long for you Donna, your blond hair and lovely voice. Oh how we miss you.
[no picture is on file for the amazing Donna]
Next we find Dancing Cheryl coming down the lane. She was a hoot to say the least. She reminded me of a more haggard Jennifer Coolidge. She was totally into the music and was hysterical to watch during the Main Street Commemorative Disneyland Birthday Celebration. Cheryl, here's to you!
Following behind Cheryl is the Waitress Nazi, Suzette. Unfortunately Suzette is camera shy. However she is a bit bulshy, so if you ask her, "Now does your bisque have cream?" She'll simply, and ever so gently spit at you "Bisque is Cream." and then waltz away to the sounds of "Do you know..." But honestly who can trust the head waitress who tells you "Full" isn't on the Dessert Menu. A five star waitress...
Following in the lines of strong women comes Lady Ursula. Yes, you must say LADY or else it isn't as fun. Ever notice how there seems to be a lot more women dressing and looking like Ursula lately? Even on America's Got Talent.... Well here's to you all the Lady Ursulas of the World...
Speaking of Disney Villains, this past week I had the opportunity to meet up with Farah's favorite villain, Curella DeVill. She was hysterical and rude. One glance at me, even after my "You look lovely dahling." comment, she said, "I wish I could say the same for you. What on earth are you wearing? You look like someone covered you in bad wall paper. Honestly." Here's to a witty lady with killer style...
Speaking of people who make life miserable, let's talk about someone who has a miserable life: Suicidal Billie. Her lousy life where all she does is sing for the man and get beat by him too, but she loves him. Oh well life could be worse, poor thingy. She had to sing all those songs about her man cheating on her, two-timing her, what a joke. Honestly Billie, you were better off with out him...
So if you weren't selected this time as a friend, please drop us a comment here on my blog. If you were selected and you would like to find your way out of the friend's list, please drop us a comment and three reasons why you should be off the list. If you are dead, please ignore this message.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Disneyland Trip
Well, yes it is true. After a week of a lovely honeymoon us Newlyweds hightailed it to the Happiest Place on Earth for a little relaxation via Disneyland Excitement. Here are some of the pictures so you can see what it was like for us to share the Happiest Place on Earth during our Happiest Month in Life. Please note we went two days so if our clothing magically changes in on of the pictures... well... you'll know why then...
So first there was the whole excitement that it was Disney's Birthday today! Woot, woot! So we got to watch a special presentation by the Mayor of Main Street and heard this amazing All American Band play songs ranging from Earth, Wind and Fire to Dreamgirls all the way to the Mickey Mouse Club Theme Song. Loved it.
We also were fortunate enough to go on the NEW Nemo Submarine Ride. It was pretty cool despite the grumbling from the people in line. Honestly... it's a new ride, get over it.
We had a lovely time riding all of the rides together and visiting the sites... Sadly our car guns didn't seem to do the trick and our scores are significantly lower than usual. Humf. I thought married life would improve my score...
But best of all was seeing the characters at Disneyland. I know... Odd... But come on. We saw Linguini from Ratatouille, Cruella DeVil, and the Queen of New Orleans (if you haven't seen her before get your tail into New Orleans Square cause she is delightful).
The last thing we did was work on a secret gift for the Cass which will be presented to her either before or at the birth of her younger brother. Love it. suggestion for a name: Albus or Cedric. They are good.
So first there was the whole excitement that it was Disney's Birthday today! Woot, woot! So we got to watch a special presentation by the Mayor of Main Street and heard this amazing All American Band play songs ranging from Earth, Wind and Fire to Dreamgirls all the way to the Mickey Mouse Club Theme Song. Loved it.
We also were fortunate enough to go on the NEW Nemo Submarine Ride. It was pretty cool despite the grumbling from the people in line. Honestly... it's a new ride, get over it.
We had a lovely time riding all of the rides together and visiting the sites... Sadly our car guns didn't seem to do the trick and our scores are significantly lower than usual. Humf. I thought married life would improve my score...
But best of all was seeing the characters at Disneyland. I know... Odd... But come on. We saw Linguini from Ratatouille, Cruella DeVil, and the Queen of New Orleans (if you haven't seen her before get your tail into New Orleans Square cause she is delightful).
The last thing we did was work on a secret gift for the Cass which will be presented to her either before or at the birth of her younger brother. Love it. suggestion for a name: Albus or Cedric. They are good.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Predictions
Well it has been 2 days since I finished the Deathly Hallows. Love it, love it, love it. No spoilers here... Not yet at least. I'll warn you in big letters if one is coming.
I was going over our credo on Friday night... Let me break this down for you. The Kiniry Family and myself started a group my dad affectionately called "The Burrow." The full and proper name for our Potter Mania group is "The Order of the Burrow." Now after viewing a HP Movie and going to the last book release we wrote out a credo stating our fundamental beliefs about Harry Potter. Now for the first time in a public internet setting I will reveal our beliefs:
"Order of the Burrow
In response to book 6 and the near end of the AMAZING Harry Potter series a group of witches and a wizard got together to discuss possible clues and ending to the story of Harry Potter. In doing so they have established a credo of beliefs in which they will deduce possible conclusions based on the 6 books, additional material composed by JKR, and interviews that JKR has conducted.
The Credo States Theories that have been unanimously agreed upon.
Official Credo:
1. Snape is good.
2. Snape loved lily.
3. “Choices” is one of the essential story themes.
4. Harry’s eyes are significant.
5. Dumbledore can still communicate with the wizarding world, in particular Harry and other OOTP Members.
6. RAB is Regiulus Black.
7. Part or all of Harry is a horcrux.
8. A character has been hidden by A.D."
So there is our Credo. We wrote it over 2 years ago, less than a month after the release of HPHBP. I love it. I will further discuss the book in a blog I will post in the next three days. Enjoy reading.
I was going over our credo on Friday night... Let me break this down for you. The Kiniry Family and myself started a group my dad affectionately called "The Burrow." The full and proper name for our Potter Mania group is "The Order of the Burrow." Now after viewing a HP Movie and going to the last book release we wrote out a credo stating our fundamental beliefs about Harry Potter. Now for the first time in a public internet setting I will reveal our beliefs:
"Order of the Burrow
In response to book 6 and the near end of the AMAZING Harry Potter series a group of witches and a wizard got together to discuss possible clues and ending to the story of Harry Potter. In doing so they have established a credo of beliefs in which they will deduce possible conclusions based on the 6 books, additional material composed by JKR, and interviews that JKR has conducted.
The Credo States Theories that have been unanimously agreed upon.
Official Credo:
1. Snape is good.
2. Snape loved lily.
3. “Choices” is one of the essential story themes.
4. Harry’s eyes are significant.
5. Dumbledore can still communicate with the wizarding world, in particular Harry and other OOTP Members.
6. RAB is Regiulus Black.
7. Part or all of Harry is a horcrux.
8. A character has been hidden by A.D."
So there is our Credo. We wrote it over 2 years ago, less than a month after the release of HPHBP. I love it. I will further discuss the book in a blog I will post in the next three days. Enjoy reading.
Movie Reviews and Then Some
Here it is... I haven't had the internet in a long time and, well, I needed it to do my movie reviews that all of you love so much. So here they are:
Transformers
Ratatouille
Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix
I have to go in order of when I saw them:
Transformers:
Ok, if I was a high school aged guy this would be the movie for me. Alas, while I am a guy (no comments from you Jon Coulter) I am not in high school, so I thought ti was just average. In all honesty I thought it was an ok movie with more than enough action for the destructo world viewers. But see, that's the problem. We have to view SO much destruction that it doesn't really matter what happens.
In this viewer's opinion there was too much destruction, too much sexuality, and too much language for this movie to be great fun for the whole family. I liked it for high school and young college aged guys but nothing more. Alas, I was a bit disappointed.
A Rice Cake with a smidgen of peanut butter.
Ratatouille
Cute? Sure. Funny? Perhaps at times. Well designed? Absolutely. Honestly this film was a good idea, but lacked the "heart and soul" which many of the Pixar (now) Classics have held. Cars, Toy Story, Bugs' Life, The Incredibles, Nemo... Nope this one didn't really hit home. I liked the characters, but why in the world didn't they have French accents? I can't even figure it out. Well. Anyway, obviously I am too excited to write about the next movie so I will say this movie was:
A Rice Cake with Peanut Butter and a sip of Diet Coke.
Harry Potter and The Order of The Phoenix
The best HP movie to date. Mark my words. Honestly, I really thought the director did a smashing job. It had great imagery and wonderful art direction. The movie was the best adaptation of the book to date because he captured the big mystery, dilemma, and the heart of Harry. I know, I'm a total Harry Potter nerd, but hear me out.
The first and second movies were good adaptations but there was always a point in the movie where it felt like you were going nowhere, and the film could have been chopped down significantly--remember the whole Spider in the forest part or too long during the chess game part. Yes I loved them too, but in the film they weren't necessary. And the red-herrings were cut out. The third film in retro-spec was a total wreck. I know it was loved the most by mass audiences but really? Come on the whole IMPORTANT back story was totally cut out. I'm still bitter about that. The fourth... Arg. I was just a little pissed about the fourth. Yes, it was the most epic of the 4, but honestly looking at it the director made it cheesy with the horrible music selection and the gritty filming. I liked the last 35 minutes of the movie though... That made the 4th movie jump above the 3rd in my favorites.... But now we have 5...
Beautifully crafted. Well thought out. And totally got to the heart of the book. A political and psychological drama for teens. It was perfect. The additions and substitutions Yates made were perfect. The only thing I would have done differently would be extending the last battle two more minutes. It was intense but seemed trimmed too short. Alas, I have no complaints for this Potter film.
Spaghetti Dinner with a tall glass of Diet Coke.
Transformers
Ratatouille
Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix
I have to go in order of when I saw them:
Transformers:
Ok, if I was a high school aged guy this would be the movie for me. Alas, while I am a guy (no comments from you Jon Coulter) I am not in high school, so I thought ti was just average. In all honesty I thought it was an ok movie with more than enough action for the destructo world viewers. But see, that's the problem. We have to view SO much destruction that it doesn't really matter what happens.
In this viewer's opinion there was too much destruction, too much sexuality, and too much language for this movie to be great fun for the whole family. I liked it for high school and young college aged guys but nothing more. Alas, I was a bit disappointed.
A Rice Cake with a smidgen of peanut butter.
Ratatouille
Cute? Sure. Funny? Perhaps at times. Well designed? Absolutely. Honestly this film was a good idea, but lacked the "heart and soul" which many of the Pixar (now) Classics have held. Cars, Toy Story, Bugs' Life, The Incredibles, Nemo... Nope this one didn't really hit home. I liked the characters, but why in the world didn't they have French accents? I can't even figure it out. Well. Anyway, obviously I am too excited to write about the next movie so I will say this movie was:
A Rice Cake with Peanut Butter and a sip of Diet Coke.
Harry Potter and The Order of The Phoenix
The best HP movie to date. Mark my words. Honestly, I really thought the director did a smashing job. It had great imagery and wonderful art direction. The movie was the best adaptation of the book to date because he captured the big mystery, dilemma, and the heart of Harry. I know, I'm a total Harry Potter nerd, but hear me out.
The first and second movies were good adaptations but there was always a point in the movie where it felt like you were going nowhere, and the film could have been chopped down significantly--remember the whole Spider in the forest part or too long during the chess game part. Yes I loved them too, but in the film they weren't necessary. And the red-herrings were cut out. The third film in retro-spec was a total wreck. I know it was loved the most by mass audiences but really? Come on the whole IMPORTANT back story was totally cut out. I'm still bitter about that. The fourth... Arg. I was just a little pissed about the fourth. Yes, it was the most epic of the 4, but honestly looking at it the director made it cheesy with the horrible music selection and the gritty filming. I liked the last 35 minutes of the movie though... That made the 4th movie jump above the 3rd in my favorites.... But now we have 5...
Beautifully crafted. Well thought out. And totally got to the heart of the book. A political and psychological drama for teens. It was perfect. The additions and substitutions Yates made were perfect. The only thing I would have done differently would be extending the last battle two more minutes. It was intense but seemed trimmed too short. Alas, I have no complaints for this Potter film.
Spaghetti Dinner with a tall glass of Diet Coke.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
The Honeymooners in Carmel
It was amazing. And yes, here are some pictures you can see. Gotta love a Honeymoon, eh?
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