Forum meeting in Europe – Accio ’05 and future meetings

[Elanor]

This topic serves as an archive of a thread from the Harry Potter Lexicon Forum as hosted on World Crossing which ceased operation on April 15, 2011. - Elanor

Forum meeting in Europe – Accio ’05 and future meetings

Detail Seeker - Jun 15, 2004 10:39 am
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Edited by Kip Carter Aug 15, 2006 6:30 am

This is for planning a meeting in Europe. Anyone, who would be interested in coming - or even organizing- is welcome to post here. If time allows, I would attend. Edit : Berlin would be my place

---

Index Forum meeting in Europe

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ulrikke - Jun 15, 2004 10:12 am (#1 of 668)
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
I would love to come! (If my parents let me that is) I live in Denmark.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 15, 2004 2:06 pm (#2 of 668)
Okay so maybe it is a good idea to first give everybody a change to post if they really consider coming. Off course we know that every-one would want to come, but to get any idea of where to go and such we should know whom could really make it.
And we have to know where every-one comes from so we could pick an apropriate place.

So, yes I want to come, and I reside in the Netherlands, (till oktober) And off course I could tell you all the details of my geographical location, but really my country isn't so big so it doesn't matter where I would be in it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 16, 2004 12:55 am (#3 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I'd be interested to come but this year. I've already planed a rather expensive trip in october but maybe I could manage. I think the most central locations possible would be Belgium, northern France or southern England, or why not Netherlands. Those who are interested, tell us and tell us precisely where you live so that we could the most appropriate place.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Sinister Kittens - Jun 16, 2004 6:44 am (#4 of 668)
I've put myself on Lurk only status, sorry I haven't been chatting but I have been reading about you all ;-).
Hi guys, a European meeting? Definately something that I would be interested in, I have visited Berlin before and was planning to go back and see how things had changed, so obviously depending on costs etc. put me down as interested. Is anyone else from the UK considering this?

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Jun 16, 2004 6:48 am (#5 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
I would be extremely interested, but being 17 and having a very protective mother along with not much money I don't know if I could persuade her to let me go. I will try if a date and location etc. is decided. I'll definately think about it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ulrikke - Jun 19, 2004 6:17 am (#6 of 668)
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
I've talked to my parents about it and they seem open to the idea (Woohoo! ), but I won't get a final 'yes' from them before they know location, date etc.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Neldoreth - Jun 21, 2004 5:06 am (#7 of 668)
Gryffindor girl!
well, i just registered and as a brand-new member of this great forum, i would love to attend this meeting! I'm living in Strasbourg, France and keep a sharp eye for the detailed infos about where, when etc we shall meet!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Neldoreth - Jun 24, 2004 1:25 am (#8 of 668)
Gryffindor girl!
Edited by Mare Jun 24, 2004 5:31 am
Hello European citizens! I've just read in the "Pennsylvania June 4th Weekend Gathering"-Thread that Marè : (#274 in the Thread Pennsylvania etc) had tried to get a list of the European Forum-members: thats what came out then:

Brittain: Timrew, Jim the Potty, Liz, Dr Filibuster(?), dumbledore II., Jules (Sinister Kittens), Azi, Prongs & Phelim

Ireland: Fawkes

France: Septentrion, Essidji, Neldoreth

Sweden: Anna Katarina

Norway: Veronika

Germany: Detail Seeker, Sarcastic Ginny, leviosa87

Netherlands: Marè, Joost

Danmark: Ravenclawgirl

I'm sure its not complete! Lets where it brings us!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 24, 2004 5:38 am (#9 of 668)
so far this thread isn't going very fast. Would it be easier to just pick a time and place and then see who could come?
We also have this tiny problem of that sea that kind of seperates Brittain and Ireland from the rest. allthough you can take the train from London to Brussels. And if you fly on small airports with the right company, planetickets aren't that expensive. (from Niederrhein to London: Euro 2.99. Expect 40 euro's of taxes though )

- - - - - - - - - - -
Neldoreth - Jun 24, 2004 6:23 am (#10 of 668)
Gryffindor girl!
I was thinking that Brussel, being a bit like the capital of Europe (as is Strasbourg, my home town of course, but the city is less central than brussel and quite difficult to access too): Brussel could be a good place to meet: what are the other places possible? Berlin? Bonn? Köln (Cologne)?

Best thing would be to combine the Forum-meeting with any Harry-Potter-event taking place somewhere (an exhibition, a conference etc...) anyone has heard of anything like this in Europe??

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 24, 2004 6:46 am (#11 of 668)
I was thinking Belgium or Nord France too. I don't think there are any HP events, at least I didn't hear of any

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 24, 2004 8:50 am (#12 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I can answer for Northern france : there's no HP event here, at least none I have heard of. But why not create it ? Brussels would be an interesting and easy place to reach, as well as Lille in Northern France (they both have the eurostar), Charleroi airport (in Belgium) hosts ryan air, and Lille has an international airport. So what do you prefer, folks ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jun 24, 2004 9:08 am (#13 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I would be ready to go anywhere, given, that the date fits me. Town with airport around is preferred. Somebody living at the place of the meeting would be quite helpful. So, a meeting in "Petit Ville sans Eglise", 45 Minutes by train from XX airport would be fine, too as long as it enables the host of the meeting to organize things.

Problem is, that I can´t do much organizing at the moment. I would be ready to host a meeting next year.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 24, 2004 9:36 am (#14 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
oops,the date! Which dates would fit for you ? I'm not available in october but no problem the rest of the time.

Detail Seeker, where do you live exactly ? We could organize a GoF meeting. I know there's still a long time to wait but we'd have time to organize.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jun 24, 2004 1:50 pm (#15 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Septentrion, I live in Berlin, quite excentric for most of us, but at least target of some cheap airlines and a good railway connection. So, it is quite far from your place, too.

A GoF meeting would be great - perhaps we get the next book in between. Let´s see: PoA DVD for Christmas - GoF perhaps in November next year - what will make money in the summer? So, either another sidestory book or book 6. Well, I get carried away in daydreams.... If no other date is found ,we should concentrate on this and do that great. But I still hope, that someone will come forward for this year.

For this year I am absolutely unavailable in September and August. July might do, but I guess, nobody will be able to set this up in such a short time. Or do I err ?

Anyone from a place with wintersun ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Leviosa - Jun 26, 2004 11:57 am (#16 of 668)
I think it would be very difficult to come to a meeting this year, except it's not far from where I live (Regensburg, that's 120km away from Munich). I'm already going on two holidays this year (Hungary with my class and Italy with my parents) so I doubt my parents would allow me a third trip. But if the meeting is somewhere near me and if I am at home (I'm in Italy from 14th to 28th of August), I'll certainly come. But I think this is not very probable, so better don't count me in.

But there are much better chances for next year (I will be 18 then, too... )

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mellilot Flower. - Jun 26, 2004 6:53 pm (#17 of 668)
Pixie led
If it's not too soon I might be kinda interested- I'm trying to overcome shyness here. Currently I live in the north of scotland, but should be heading south within the year... any details welcomed so long as I have time to save for it and it doesn't clash with the cambridge folk festival next year (failed to get tickets this year)

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 27, 2004 3:43 am (#18 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
the dvd release (november ? december ?) would be a good date but it may be a little difficult for some people here maybe. Well it may be difficult for me this year because of money (I go to Israël in october and it costs rather a lot already). But next year is good, and I find it a good idea to see Berlin. I think I could even get my husband : he saw eastern Berlin in the 80's and surely he'd like to see the changes. BTW I'll try to convince him as he isn't a potty (nobody's perect). And everybody will have time to spare money, to ask for days off to their employer, to prepare things so you won't have all the work for you, Detail Seeker. Definitely, I vote for 2005 !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 27, 2004 5:07 am (#19 of 668)
For this summer a group of people from this forum tried to arrange a vacation together. We planned it for one and a half year from the point when we got the idea. But when the date approachedn that we really had to start booking things, most people couldn't make it, because life had caught up. (people were moving, getting married etc etc.)

So even though Berlin 2005 certainly is a good idea, I will be curious to see who his around, and who isn't by then.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Sinister Kittens - Jun 29, 2004 1:27 am (#20 of 668)
I've put myself on Lurk only status, sorry I haven't been chatting but I have been reading about you all ;-).
I might have placed myself temporarily on 'lurk only' status, due to lack of time and work commitments but I would be interested in a meet up pretty much anywhere and any time, but I agree that it would need to be somewhere with an International airport so that traveling is easier. Are we looking at next year now then?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Liz Mann - Jul 2, 2004 1:23 pm (#21 of 668)
Join us for the Philosopher's Stone Watch-A-Long
I would love to go but I think there would be the problem of a) time and money and b) mum.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Jul 12, 2004 1:32 pm (#22 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
I don't know if we are tallying and stuff still, but Ponine here is from Norway, and would LOVE to go to a Potter gathering In Britain would seem - more - 'real', and - you know, if we are many enough and flowery enough - maybe we could Weasel (intended) our way to the set of the fourth movie???? Who would be better than us to be Hogsmeade villagers or Tourney audiences? Way out there, or could we do it?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 12, 2004 1:48 pm (#23 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Visiting the movie set would be a very nice idea, but who would organize that ?

So, what is needed ? An organizer, who finds a location for gathering and means of transport and a schedule, where to go when. Quite a lot. Accomodation will be found by most of us independently (Thanks to the Net, there are possibilities). Some guardianship for those, who are hard up in money for accomodation will surely be found.
The rest will self-organize. So, is there anyone in the UK, who feels up to it ?
Otherwise, my offer to organize a weekend in Berlin next year is, of course, still valid. But visiting the movie set.....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Jul 12, 2004 6:38 pm (#24 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
Well - I have never even been to the UK, so I don't think I am the right one for much practical matters, but I would certainly be willing to help in any way that I can....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Neldoreth - Jul 13, 2004 12:55 am (#25 of 668)
Gryffindor girl!
Wow ponine, thats an excellent idea! I would love to take a look at a real set, that must be very exciting. From Strasbourg here, I cant organize anything sadly...

Has anyone around here an idea of when and on which locations the movie is being shot?

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 22, 2004 3:02 am (#26 of 668)
Next year there is a BIG Potter gathering in Reading, England. It is called Accio and the link is [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Would people want to link up to the Reading Conference and tag something on the start or the end, or would they want a seperate event? I am willing to try and organise something if people want to be over here in the UK. A company does tours of the Harry Potter world. This could be something to do if people are interested.

Places used in England include Charing Cross Road, Oxford, Gloucester Cathedral and a castle in Northumbria.

Edit - I have found two tour options. One covers Oxford and can go onto to include Lacock Abbey and Gloucester. The second in London based and includes Leadenhall Market, Charing Cross Station and London Zoo. Dtails at [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Or a special tour of these areas could be organised.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 22, 2004 10:55 am (#27 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Phelim it's worth a thought.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 22, 2004 12:03 pm (#28 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Good idea, Phelim ! Mark me for some activity around the Accio. The Oxford / Gloucester tour sounds good, though the prices seem a bit spicy. This time should be holiday time all over Europe, so younger members should have no problem missing school.

I wonder, who of us Forum members will be presenting at the Accio ? As the Lexicon itself is mentioned as resource for researching. Perhaps we should see, if we can present the Lexicon Forum in itself, there. Something to discuss, hmmm

- - - - - - - - - - -
Sinister Kittens - Jul 22, 2004 3:18 pm (#29 of 668)
I've put myself on Lurk only status, sorry I haven't been chatting but I have been reading about you all ;-).
Okay - well, although I don't have much time for organising events I am happy, more than happy, to contact this organisation. Reading is not too far and I am sure they would welcome the forum folk with open arms. I can send them an email just as an opener, if you would like?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 22, 2004 3:40 pm (#30 of 668)
Just make sure you tell them you are a frequent visitor of the Forum. The Lexicon is Steve's baby, and even if we are so happy to be attached to it, we really have no say or no right to make other people think we contribute to that great site. In this case, I think you have to be very carefull how you word it, we can't take credit for the achievments of the lexicon, were we have none. If you want to do something as a HP freak, by all means, put the LexForum (<- note Forum!) on your CV.
If you want to do something in name of the Lexicon, please contact Steve.

Now if the accio organisation contact you and say "O my gosh, you are from that forum, it is so great!" Than please take full credit, because the members are what makes this forum the best.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Jul 24, 2004 6:04 pm (#31 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
oh, I really hope this can work out - it sounds like so much fun!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 26, 2004 4:47 am (#32 of 668)
I have volunteered for Accio and as part of my CV said I was a member of the Lexicon Forum (making it clear it was the Forum not the actual Lexicon). So Mare, I agree with you. Forum is one thing. Lexicon is Steve and co's.

I ma changing jobs in September but if people want I can organise some gathering either attached to Accio or seperate. As to the tours, why don't we do our own if getting into places can be negotitated. Keep the costs down.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jul 26, 2004 1:27 pm (#33 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
Phelim, I think thats a great idea - depending on costs and committments (sept/Oct is my particular conference time professionally) I would definitely be interested.

- - - - - - - - - - -
isabel nunes - Sep 17, 2004 2:01 pm (#34 of 668)
well, I've just read about this great idea. I'm more or less new to the forum (that is, I registered some time ago but I don't come often). I've been to Convention Alley and got the bug, so it would be great to go to accio... and much much cheaper. I live in Portugal

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Oct 27, 2004 4:22 am (#35 of 668)
Steve - the creator of this wonderful award winning site - is a guest speaker for Accio. So those who live in Europe and haven't been able to hear him in the States. This is a good opportunity.

Book now.

Phelim

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Nov 19, 2004 6:40 am (#36 of 668)
Okay, I want to go. I just have to figure out a way to pay, because they don't seem to accept foreign cheques. So when I'm home for christmas I have to arrange for some kind of creditcard and dign up for paypal. (Or steal my dads, but I don't think he will appreciate that...)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Nov 19, 2004 9:49 am (#37 of 668)
I want to go too! In fact, I have sent them a proposal for a paper about the alchemical clues in HP. I don't know yet if it will be chosen or not, but anyway I really want to go! It would be great if we could organize something for the forum members who will go. Any ideas?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Nov 25, 2004 5:52 am (#38 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I plan to go, too. Phelim had some ideas about what to do. I hope some other of our british friends will come to his aid....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Nov 25, 2004 7:13 am (#39 of 668)
I don't have money for one of these HP trips, but I could stay in brittain an extra day or two and do some fun things. (Hmmm, Brittain, shopping in London, I see options )

I hope Phelim checks back in here...

Oh, by the way, I signed up on the Accio forums (username: Marè, what a surprise)

Oh and for the other foreigners, paypall is not the only way of paying, we van also do it via our banks, but I have to get some more information on that.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Nov 25, 2004 8:20 am (#40 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I've been visiting the accio website today and I found out that the application must be postmarked before Jan 21st ! Thereafter, you're not sure the prices will still be the same. It's early to know for me. Yet you can register as just a supportive member, ie not to go but to receive the texts of the conferences. That's a consolation !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Neville Longbottom - Dec 14, 2004 3:00 pm (#41 of 668)
I live in Germany, too. I would love to go to some meeting, but currently I sadly don't have the money for a trip to England. Therefore I can't go to the Accio meeting. But maybe sometimes later, when there's another meeting.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Dec 15, 2004 6:42 am (#42 of 668)
Too bad Neville, I was making a list with people to mail, but I will take you off

Maybe next time...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Fawkes Forever - Dec 15, 2004 9:11 am (#43 of 668)
Crookshanks is not ugly, he's just aesthetically challenged ;o) Hee hee, looks like there's more than one ginger male in Hermiones life!
Hey Mare.... I saw your note about accio on another thread. What is it, where is it & when is it? Sorry I'm a bit clueless, but sounds like a bit of fun

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Dec 16, 2004 12:55 am (#44 of 668)
See, I haven't even launched my attack yet and people are coming back to this thread already!

Accio is an unofficial Harry Potter meeting in Reading, UK. They have panels and discussions and guest speakers (Lexicon Steve!) The links for the accio site and forums can be found in this thread:

Phelim Mcintyre, "-- HPL-Forum meeting in Europe" #26, 22 Jul 2004 2:02 am

From there on starts the discussion (sort off) about accio. There are some members who want to go, but can't tell yet, and there are those who still haven't got a clue that they are going to go because they haven't yet been properly informed, but that won't take long!

It looks like a lot of fun, but I really think it would be four times funner if we have a little forum group together.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Dec 25, 2004 5:34 am (#45 of 668)
Sorry I've been silent - but what a lot has happened while I've been away. Ill health and job taking up my time. I am in hospital for the start of next month (January 11th) for an op which will hopefully put me back on track. Then I can start working towards a possible gathering for people if they would like.

Please let me know any ideas. My email is on the info page about me.

Happy Christmas

Phelim

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Dec 25, 2004 6:57 am (#46 of 668)
Hi Phelim,

Best of luck to you! hope the hospital visit goes the right way.
I still need to ask the accio people for their banc account and subscribe (I'm such a slacker..) I don't know what else we can do, except try to get more people to come

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Dec 26, 2004 1:54 pm (#47 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Edited Jan 9, 2005 3:54 am
All the best, especially with the OP, to you, Phelim.

I am going to register for Accio as soon as a collision of dates has been smoothed out.

Happy New year to all, who read this.

Edit: I just registered today (09.01.05) and will be happy to meet as mny of us as possible, there !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 10, 2005 7:07 am (#48 of 668)
I just sent a mail to some members with an open e-mail adress. I included many and forgot probably even more...
Knowing me, I probably even managed to include some non-European members who have not the means of coming even if they wanted to...

For all those whom I missed, forgot or overlooked; here is the mail:

Hi to all HP Lexicon Forum members.

As the people who have read the "forum meeting in Europe" thread might know, some European forummers have discussed going to the ACCIO convention in Reading (near London) this summer. (29-31 July)

Not only is this an oppurtunity to hear Lexicon Steve speak in person (!) it is also a great way of not having to pick a place for a get together ourselves, and more importantly arrange all the things that come with it.

Right now Elanor and I are in the middle of signing up. (We have requested to use bank to bank payment instead of cheques or paypal, so there is some paperwork involved...) And Detail Seeker has already registered.

I know that other forum members want to come, but need to sort out dates, and then there are some who have an interest in this whole matter but need some more prodding... (consider yourself prodded!)

And then there is the reason why I send this mail: The people who might be interested to come but don't know yet there is a group of forummers who wants to go.

The forum is big, and after some member told the hosts that he never read the "important, must read" thread, I realised that not everybody reads all the threads ( )and that sending a mail might not be such a bad idea.

So I hope nobody minds having to read my rambles for five minutes. If you are interested or want to know more about this meeting; Accio's site can be visited here: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] If you want to come to Accio with us, remember to register before the end of Januari, the prices may go up after that.

And the meeting in Europe thread is at the bottom of the chat section... (current discussion between members) Where we are always ready to talk you into coming (Or give other information if needed)

I hope to hear from you, and I hope that every-one siriusly considers joining us!

sincerely,

Marè (Also known as Steffie in real life)

My registration papers are going to be send out tonight... who's next?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 10, 2005 10:10 am (#49 of 668)
I am! The registration paper is filled in and I will send it on Wednesday (no time for going to the post office before).

I am really happy about that, I have no doubt we will have a lot of fun there. To be in England, less that 2 weeks after the HBP release, among Potties, and for Harry's birthday moreover, I can call that holidays! And I'm really eager for knowing some forumers in real, I hope a lot of you will come! "The more the merrier" as Sirius would say... Accio!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 10, 2005 1:34 pm (#50 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
To make Registration easier:

There is no need to use Snail Mail. I registered by sending the filled Word-format Registration Form with a scanned signature included as a graphics in the signature field by e-mail. This was accepted.

So you can register by e-mail. This makes registering easier, as you do not have to buy a stamp...

I can just underscore, what Marè and Elanor said: Join us there and make the HPLF a ell represented group and - above all - a good Backup force for Steve !

See you !

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Jan 11, 2005 3:14 pm (#51 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
Thanks for your e-mail Marè! I don't think I have enough money to go somehow (I mentioned it to my mum and she did that silence thing which means she's not gonnna let me go) and I was also looking at the website and discovered people under 18 can't go. Now I would have been 18 for just over 3 months by the date of the convention, but if I had got the money then I would probably have had trouble reserving my place because of my age (I think).

Now I understand why people under 18 can't go,(not technically adults, safety issues, maturity etc. etc.) but when I can legally smoke, live away from home, have a full time job, drive a car and get married at my age it seems a bit stupid that I wouldn't be allowed to attend a Harry Potter convention! I suppose that's just life!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 12, 2005 12:54 am (#52 of 668)
but if I had got the money then I would probably have had trouble reserving my place because of my age (I think).

Nope, it says on the registration form, you have to sign that you are 18 when the convention starts. So even if your birthday is the day before, that should not be a problem. (But I can see how your mother could be... I can also very much see her point of view, but it is still a pity!)

Membership of Accio is currently limited to people over the age of 18 because of the nature of the academic discussions and workshops being hosted.
... I guess they wanted to avoid to many Draco is HHOOTT discussions...
I don't know, there are many "mature" people under 18 (look at this forum!) So it's a shame they can not attend. But then again, they had to draw the line somewhere, and I guess 18 is a handy choice for the reasons you stated above.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 12, 2005 2:15 am (#53 of 668)
Mare - there are also many immature people over 18. The other issue with only having over 18's is the British "child protection" laws. So its actually more a legal issue for insurance purposes etc.

Have just printed off my form so I can go. How do us lexiconers identify each other though? I will speak with the Accio guys to see what I can organise.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 12, 2005 2:22 am (#54 of 668)
Phelim, rooms are set in groups of 8 around a kitchen. I have put the request on my form to be put in the same group with Elanor and Detail Seeker . I can still open the envelop and put your name on it too! Is Phelim your real name?

I think I'm just going to add "HP Lexicon forum group" just to make it easier.

And as for finding each other. I'm on the look out for a inflatable giant squid! But no such luck as of yet!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jan 12, 2005 2:55 am (#55 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Being of age is at 18 in many countries. I just think they wanted to avoid troubles by putting the line at 18.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 12, 2005 6:03 am (#56 of 668)
I've done it! This morning I went to the bank and the post office and the registration form is sent! I had a stupid grin on my face all my way back home, thinking to July. I think people get used to see me like this here since that stupid grin didn't leave me for days when we heard about the release date of the HBP... That is so great!

BTW, I had just checked the thread before leaving and saw your posts, so I reopened my letter and added that some other Lexicon forum members may want to join us in the days to come, so that they won't be surprised if Phelim and other members ask for joining us. Which reminds me : Septentrion, no news about your summer holidays?

Azi, I'm sorry you can't come, it would have been great to meet you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 12, 2005 6:20 am (#57 of 668)
Yes Phelim is my real name.

Also, they have been expecting my form for some time now as I have actually volunteered to help with Accio. Just been too busy to get round to posting it. As I am sort of on the inside I may be able to find out about having a lexicon forum gathering in a side room. What would people think?

Mare - yes to having my name put with you guys for being in the same group. And as for the giant squid?! As a hat or a badge?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jan 12, 2005 6:53 am (#58 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Well, er... I'm afraid I can't give an answer, wether positive or not, before march or april (or even later).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 12, 2005 6:59 am (#59 of 668)
May I suggest that, if we are able to get hold of a copy in our language, that we will have read Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince before Accio. Otherwise the discussions going on will drive us insane - if we aren't already with the wait.

Would people be interested in anything attached to Accio? An outing to London or Oxford (both easily accesible from Reading)? Why pay for a tour when we can have fun doing our own!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 12, 2005 7:06 am (#60 of 668)
I love the outing idea Phelim! If the others agree, we should definitely work on that!

About the HBP, don't worry, I have planned to read it at least twice before going to Accio (the wait is hard enough, it would be torture not to have it on the 16th!).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 12, 2005 7:23 am (#61 of 668)
As I am sort of on the inside I may be able to find out about having a lexicon forum gathering in a side room. What would people think?
Hmm, I don't think it's nesecary. We can occupy the kitchen in the evenings, and I think we will also have some time off... Or is the program really, really very full?

Mare - yes to having my name put with you guys for being in the same group. And as for the giant squid?! As a hat or a badge?
Consider it done, once I located my form...
And I was thinking about using the squid as a meeting point... I could still use my plastic mini squid to make an extra "Marè Lexiconfan" badge though...

Well, er... I'm afraid I can't give an answer, wether positive or not, before march or april (or even later).
I know we are very impatient Sep, it would be just so great if you could make it! So just hit us in the head if we get too annoying with asking you if you know anything already...

Would people be interested in anything attached to Accio? An outing to London or Oxford (both easily accesible from Reading)? Why pay for a tour when we can have fun doing our own!!
I do not have the money for one of these pre-made up tours. That and I don't like pre made up tours
But the idea of staying a day or a few days longer is a good one! I already figured that if I'm in the neighbourhood of London, i might as well take an extra day and go shopping! (Okay, so that won't include the buying part too much, but still...)

On another note, I'm dreaming release date of book 7, the last! Wouldn't it be great to rent one of these Scottish castles (rent a castle, rent a hostle...) and celebrate it all together? DumbledoreII once looked into this for an earlier HP forum meeting quite some time ago, and they are very very expensive off course. But I can dream, can't I...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 12, 2005 4:16 pm (#62 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Phelim on the following day is a great idea. I would participate.

Scottish castle for Book 7 release ? Good idea - if we manage to collect most of our european members.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 13, 2005 12:39 am (#63 of 668)
if we manage to collect most of our european members

Well since it was just a thought... I was leaning towards collecting every-one of our members...

The last of my official paperwork is sent out! I'm having this grin that Elanor is familiair with <- something like that.
I put the "Harry Potter Lexicon Forum group" with all the names too!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 13, 2005 2:05 am (#64 of 668)
My comment about the room was because so many Lexicon members are coming that we will not fit into the kitchen (or am I just dreaming). Anyway who's up to kidnapping Steve one night so we can actually chat with him face to face???? (Just kidding - though Steve we will need to know how you like your tea/coffee/hot chocolate for when you pop by).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Fawkes Forever - Jan 13, 2005 4:04 am (#65 of 668)
Crookshanks is not ugly, he's just aesthetically challenged ;o) Hee hee, looks like there's more than one ginger male in Hermiones life!
Hey Guys.. reading this with interest.

I would love to attend... but I have a friends wedding in July... I must contact her regarding dates.... so I can find out if I can attend or not...

Fingers crossed

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 13, 2005 6:03 am (#66 of 668)
Oh, it would be great if you could! Crossing fingers toes and eyebrows! (Okay that last one sounds nice in theorie but won't work so well in reality...)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 14, 2005 2:29 pm (#67 of 668)
It should be really great if you could come Fawkes! I was just thinking how great it is that people from all Europe (and from farer from Europe) will gather there. Look at us forumers who will go: English, German, Dutch, French and Irish people gathered there by their passion for the HP universe. That is some European construction, I tell you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Liz Mann - Jan 17, 2005 4:25 pm (#68 of 668)
Join us for the Philosopher's Stone Watch-A-Long
I'm in two minds about whether or not to come. My mum, as of present, doesn't like the idea (it's really expensive). I'm working on it, though.

So can anyone update me on what the people who are going are planning to do there?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 18, 2005 7:10 am (#69 of 668)
I don't think we planned anything yet except attending Accio. It seems though that people are willing to stay a few days longer to do some stuff. We haven't really discussed what, allthough visiting London and Oxford are options which are mentioned.

We could make a list of things we would like to do and see if we could make some kind of schedule? I think Phelim had the most information about the whats and wheres (hey, you are the Brit after all )
(I-wanna-go-to-Scotland...) Meep, on to things that are actual possibilities, isn't there some kind of "Great hall" site in Oxford? (I'm so not up to date when it comes to movie stuff...)

PS Liz, now I'm not sure if I replied to you or not... Have you gotten my second mail yet?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Liz Mann - Jan 18, 2005 8:19 am (#70 of 668)
Join us for the Philosopher's Stone Watch-A-Long
Yes, I have.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 19, 2005 1:43 am (#71 of 668)
One of the colleges was used as the Great Hall, I'm not sure which one as it not in front of me yet. I think it was Corpus Christie. So thats the Oxford link.

With London there is Diagon Alley, Platform 9 3/4 etc, but not Gringotts - the Goblins wouldn't let us in.

If people really want (not this year as we have a book, a film and Accio to afford) a trip to Alnwyck Castle (HOGWARTS) would be possible.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Kerstin - Jan 19, 2005 1:43 pm (#72 of 668)
Hello you all,

I just wanted to tell you that I've registered for Accio, my registration form is on the way.

You haven't heard much from me because I do not often post, but I'm here every day and read a lot. Therefore I'm very familiar with many forum members. I really look forward to meeting you - or at least some of you.

If it's possible to join that kitchen sharing group Mare started, please let me know what I have to do.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 21, 2005 2:27 am (#73 of 668)
kitchen sharing group

That must be the best name yet!
Hi Kerstin, great that you're going to come.
Seing how you already sent out your registration form, I think the best thing you can do is mail Accio, and tell them you want to be in the same group of rooms as the rest of the Harry Potter Lexicon forum group!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 21, 2005 3:57 am (#74 of 668)
Another one coming - great. Could anyone get a picture of a bowl of fruit to stick on the door. Preferably one that is tickleish.

Also does anyone know how Lexicon Steve likes his coffee, so I can the coffee machine ready.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Kerstin - Jan 21, 2005 4:24 am (#75 of 668)
Mare - "Seing how you already sent out your registration form, I think the best thing you can do is mail Accio, and tell them you want to be in the same group of rooms as the rest of the Harry Potter Lexicon forum group!"

Ok, I'll do that.

I think that will be a great weekend with birthdays of Neville and Harry to celebrate and all the new stuff of book 6.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 21, 2005 10:01 am (#76 of 668)
Kerstin, this is great you come as well! We will have a lot to celebrate indeed.

Phelim, LOL! This is a brilliant idea, as long as Dobby doesn't try and help us in the kitchen...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 21, 2005 3:29 pm (#77 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
If cooking wasn´t such a fun, I would not mind Dobby helping, he seems to be able....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jan 21, 2005 9:10 pm (#78 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
I'm seriously considering going to Accio if I can manage teh finances. If I do go, I also plan on spending a few days in London, and a few days with a friend in Nottingham. It would be fun to get a group photo at platform 9 3/4!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 22, 2005 9:12 am (#79 of 668)
It should be great that you could come Gina! As for the group photo at platform 9 3/4, that sounds perfect!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 23, 2005 4:03 am (#80 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Gina, ask Steve for a lift. Surely he has a portkey.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jan 23, 2005 6:05 pm (#81 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Heh, heh. I wish!

Say, have any of you seen this? I'd love to piggyback Accio with a Hogwarts Express trip up to Scotland and a tour.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 24, 2005 3:43 am (#82 of 668)
Things that we could do on an extra day that are somehow Harry Potter themed (not even thinking about how many options we have if we decide to have no theme...):

Lacock
Just a short drive from Bath is the tranquil National Trust village of Lacock, where the quiet leafy streets, lined with 16th Century cottages were used in the blockbuster film. This beautiful village will evoke memories in the minds of avid film buffs as it was also used in the period dramas Emma and Pride and Prejudice. The interior of the medieval Lacock Abbey was used as the classroom of Hogwarts school where Harry would sit with his fellow wizard apprentices. Lacock's Church of St Cyriacs also featured in the film.

Oxford
The school scenes were filmed at much of Oxford Univeristy including Christ Church College - one of Oxford's most magnificent colleges where the University's age-old traditions still prevail. Its Bodleian Library - in real-life, the main research centre for students and scholars - doubles as Hogwarts Library.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
This walk seems to include the most important sights.

Gloucester
Gloucester Cathedral; Further scenes of the adventures of Harry Potter and his friends were shot at the Norman Cathedral of Gloucester, where you will also find the tombs of Edward II, the first Prince of Wales, and Robert of Normandy.

London

We HAVE to get ourselves a picture with this cow!

Gina, it would be great if you could come! That tour looks like it is filled with fun stuff, I would love to go on the Hogwarts express, but I don't think I can afford that amount of money they are asking. (Four star hotel? I'm always just glad with a hostel with no bugs and a toilet somewhere in the building...)

On another note, I was thinking about making a simple HP themed game that we could play (if we have the time...) I was thinking about "hints". Not sure how it is called in English, it's a game where you have two teams of people. Each theme has to gues the word, title, sentence that one of it's team members is trying to show. (Without using words).

Seeing as how the game itself consists mostly of little cards with names and such, I think I could find the time to make it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 24, 2005 10:33 am (#83 of 668)
All of this is very tempting Marè! I agree that we should do that on our own, it will be cheaper and even more funny because we will have full liberty to do what we want. I love your idea for the game too!

BTW, have you received something from Accio after sending the registration form? I have received nothing for the moment and was wondering if it was normal.

Edit: I want a picture of all of us with that cow too!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 24, 2005 3:25 pm (#84 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Elanor, I did get a confirmation of my registration a day after doing it, combined with a copy of the member´s roundletter. I did register via e-mail and payed via PayPal, so no SnailMail delay times. But after all this time, it is a bit odd, you heard nothing.

Gina, did you see their prices ?? The programmes are extremely tempting, there I do agree.

If we would be going on a small tour on ourselves - destinations maybe those, that Marè did propose, I would be ready to invest into one rental car to give some capacity - though driving on he wrong side of the street might be good for "a bumpy ride".

Well, we still have some time to decide about that.

But we should decide fast about: One or two extra days ?? Cheap flights have to be booed early - so fixing the dates is important.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 25, 2005 7:18 am (#85 of 668)
To rent a car for all of us is a great idea! When we will have divided the price of the rent between us, it should be very reasonable for each of us.

For my part, 2 extra days would be the best, but if you prefer only one, that's okay with me too!

BTW, I think I'm going to go by train: with the TGV and the Eurostar it should be faster than to go to the Lyon airport (1 hour and a half from me), wait there for 2 hours and then 2 more hours of plane! Besides, I love trains.

About the registration form, did you receive something Marè, since you sent it nearly at the same time as me? If you have, I will e-mail Accio to see if there is a problem or if they are just late.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 25, 2005 8:55 am (#86 of 668)
I have sent it the same time as you, and haven't heard anything. But I know I haven't payed yet because the banc rejected my form (apparently they have new ones... grrr)
The new ones are on their way to France so all will be fine in the end...
Do you know if your money has transfered yet, because maybe thats when they sent a confirmation?

Two days? One day Lacock and Oxford? (nr 4 and 5 on the map) And one day London?

I'm still in doubt, I could go by train or check Niederrhein airport. I'll see whats fastest and cheapest...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 26, 2005 4:26 am (#87 of 668)
I am out and about having had my operation. Time to get down to some serious scheming. Now where did I put the Maruader's Map of London?

I am in London next week so will do some exploring.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 26, 2005 4:48 am (#88 of 668)
I would be ready to invest into one rental car to give some capacity - though driving on he wrong side of the street might be good for "a bumpy ride".

Not to mention having to drive a car where everything is in reverse... Imagine wanting to switch gears and grasping the doorhandle on your right side...

Maybe Phelim can drive??

And I hope you are doing well Phelim. Are you recovering or recovered?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 26, 2005 1:25 pm (#89 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Depending on how many we will be, finally, we might need more than just one car. But this can be organized on short notice.

I just planned vacation for two more days after Accio (Tuesday), but have not yet booked the flights.

Phelim, good recovery for you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 27, 2005 8:02 am (#90 of 668)
I am due to be taking my driving test in February but this might be postponed to March. If I have passed my test I will be driving to Accio as my Firebolt will be in for a service.

- - - - - - - - - - -
isabel nunes - Jan 27, 2005 8:20 am (#91 of 668)
Hello

Usually I'm not around but I'd like to tell Marè I got her email and I've already registered (yesterday)! I already got the confirmation and the newsletter. I payed by paypal (very quick). I'm Isabel from Portugal and one of the official translators. After Accio there will be no more holidays. I'll become Harry's slave for about four months. I hope to meet some of you there.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 28, 2005 1:49 pm (#92 of 668)
Isabel, it will be great to know you! You're an official translator: WOW, I'm impressed! Have you ever met JKR?

After I read that you had heard from Accio very soon after registering, I finally emailed them asking if they had received my letter. After all, posts are lost everyday (it reminded me of my PoA DVD I bought on amazon.uk that first went to Germany before coming back here...). They answered me today telling me everything was okay, they received my letter, took note that I wanted to be with you all and the payment worked. They are just very busy for the moment because they received a lot of registrations so there is a delay. Phew, I'm relieved! Actually, these are some good news, it means it is a success!

Phelim, I hope you are well now (**sending strengthening charms over the Channel**)! It would be great if you could drive, that is certain. (Unless you could put your hands on a proscribed flying carpet for us all, we won't tell the MoM you have one, we promise... )

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 30, 2005 1:01 am (#93 of 668)
Hello! I have a little problem that I think I would tell you about because I am like a cat on hot bricks for now. I had sent an abstract to Accio and was waiting for an answer about it (they said we should be informed "by January the 31st") when I saw yesterday that they had some problems and had not been able to contact all the authors yet and asked the ones they didn't mail to mail them and that it was urgent. So, I emailed them at once but I have still no answer yet. I hope my mail worked, I should maybe send another one, just in case.

Would any of you know what's going on? Will they postpone the presentation of the list of the works chosen that was due for tomorrow?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jan 30, 2005 9:39 pm (#94 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Detail Seeker, I found the price for what they were offering quite agreeable on the whole. If I make it to Accio, I will want to spend more than 2 days in the UK after that. You live in Germany, and can pop over with considerably more ease (geographically speaking anyway) than I, being in NYC.

If you guys work out a plan for hiring a car and travelling, it would be nice to cross paths in Scotland or in London.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 30, 2005 11:11 pm (#95 of 668)
Forget my previous post! I have received an answer this morning. My hands are still shaking while writing but I am so happy, I received this:

"The Accio Programming Team is pleased to let you know that we've accepted your submission "Alchemical Symbols" for this summer's conference. You will be sharing a one hour time slot with another presenter."

I will start and get scared tonight, for now I'm just happy!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 31, 2005 2:41 am (#96 of 668)
WOOOOHOOOO! Way to go Audrey!!! ::

- - - - - - - - - - -
Julia. - Jan 31, 2005 7:48 am (#97 of 668)
74% obsessed! Uconn Jew Crew says: is it August yet?
WOO! And even w00t! Mazel tov Audrey, have a butterbeer on me for a job well done! *hands Audrey butterbeer* Be sure to take lots of pictures!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jan 31, 2005 3:24 pm (#98 of 668)
Thank you so much! I had that same stupid grin (this one: ) on my face all day long and I can't count the number of times I said "oh my G-d!" today... Hopeless, I know...

The butterbeer was perfect Julia, cool and tasty, thanks!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jan 31, 2005 3:51 pm (#99 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Gina, of course, it is a large trip for you, so squeezing out as much as possible is a necessitiy. Excuse me, if I sounded, as if I wanted to talk you out of taking one of these tours.I am quite sure, they will offer a lot of things to remember for the rest of one´s life.

I really hope, we will meet at Accio!

Audrey, congatulations on being accepted as a lecturer. I am shure, you will do a good one ! I will give you backup in the audience. (That means, I have to start reading the "Alchemy" thread before Accio)

Can you imagine, I posted a proposal to go to Accio ON A GERMAN HP-Forum (HPxperts) a month ago and - as yet - nobody answered or even asked a question!! And they call themselves addicted....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Tomoé - Jan 31, 2005 6:16 pm (#100 of 668)
Back in business
Congratulations Audrey!

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Feb 1, 2005 2:46 am (#101 of 668)
(That means, I have to start reading the "Alchemy" thread before Accio)

Yes!, or... We sit in the audience as probably the only ones who have no clue at all what it is about. That way, if we understand it all at the end you know it was a good presentation! ( It has 1103 posts Immo! )

How do you have to do that anyway Audrey, do you present half an hourand than the other person, or present a less amount of time and interact with the public?

We can also be instructed by Audrey beforehand with a few simple questions... or take a big banner for support (Nevermind me)

And Gina I understand that you would want to squeeze in as many things as possible if you come this way... I just know I can't join a trip like that. But the Hogwarts express ride does sound extremely atractive, doesn't it?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 1, 2005 1:16 pm (#102 of 668)
Thank you so much again, you guys are great! I WILL need some backup, that is certain and I am so happy to know you will be there.

So, some of you need alchemy remedial, do you? Well, the best teacher for that would be DD but I believe he is busy at this time of the year, which means that he might ask Snape for standing in for him (I'm sure Snape knows masses about alchemy theory...). Tempting? Seriously, I will be very happy to summarize you what it will be about! (but you can still read the alchemy thread, I'm sure you will like it if you give it a try...).

About the presentation, I have no idea yet how it will work. Yesterday, I wrote them back telling them I agreed to come and asking for that kind of details. They wrote me back that they were still working on it and that they will give us more information as soon as they will be able to do so. So, I wait!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Feb 3, 2005 7:00 pm (#103 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Well, Mare. The good news at least is that Severus and I have already met you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Carla Hodge - Feb 4, 2005 6:22 am (#104 of 668)
Hey everyone - it's been a while :-)

I'm in the same boat as Elanor - so any and all support would be very very VERY gratefully accepted! I encourage everyone to go, it's gonna be awesome :-D

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Feb 4, 2005 7:06 am (#105 of 668)
Hi Carla, nice to hear you are coming too! What are you going to be presenting?

I'm getting the feeling that maybe Phelim wasn't so far off with his remark that the kitchen might be too small...

On another note: I wanted to make a HP themed t-shirt to wear... My first design is finished (don't laugh!) and is based on an essay and an old (long gone) forum thread: The hidden meaning of socks!

I once had a squid lexicon logo forum drawing as well, but I seem to have lost that one somewhere when I changed computers... Not handy.

Anyway, I allready got a new idea! Even better, which involves more work and more paint...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Carla Hodge - Feb 4, 2005 7:10 am (#106 of 668)
Hey Mare, long time no chat :-)

I'm presenting on the characterisations of Umbridge, Bellatrix and Rita Skeeter, and how these women are used to create different degrees of evil, instead of there just being 'good' and 'bad' people. Kind of proving Sirius' "The world is not divided into good people and Death Eaters" idea :-) I hope, anyway :-)

I remember the socks - good times. I think 'Dumbledore is the Giant Squid' is the ultimate theory though :-D

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 4, 2005 12:21 pm (#107 of 668)
Congratulations Carla! Your subject is great! Count me in the backup forces for your presentation.

Marè is right, our little group is filling out, these are some good news! I hope more will join us.

Cool design Marè! I would love to see the Giant Squid one if you ever find it again...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Joyce - Feb 4, 2005 3:24 pm (#108 of 668)
I would really, really like to go to Accio and meet all of you, but my bank-account is screaming "NO". It wouldn't be far travelling since I live in The Netherlands. But I just moved to a new apartment and I've already booked my trip to London to pick up book 6 there at midnight. So unless I win the lottery somewhere between now and Accio, I'm afraid there will be no Accio for me. Maybe there will be another meeting in Europe (Netherlands or Belgium) in the future.

I hope you have a great time there and I will be thinking of you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Denise P. - Feb 4, 2005 5:23 pm (#109 of 668)
Ravenclaw Pony
Mare, I have your squid design. Let me look but I think I have both the light and dark version of it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Feb 4, 2005 6:21 pm (#110 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Mare, I have the day and night designs too. I will upload them and post a link on the chat thread.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Marie E. - Feb 5, 2005 8:35 pm (#111 of 668)
Congratulations, Audrey! I have to lecture at a teacher training in two weeks, but it's not nearly as exciting, or interesting, as this. Well done!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 6, 2005 3:32 am (#112 of 668)
Thank you Marie! And good luck for your lecture, I'm sure it will be great!

- - - - - - - - - - -
isabel nunes - Feb 8, 2005 2:32 pm (#113 of 668)
Hello Elanor
Thanks for your nice words. I only got back here today and I read about your presentation. I'm sure I'll attend. No, I don't know Her. Translators would certainly appreciate that but it seems to be an impossible dream. Anyway, I also hope to meet some of my fellow translators. It would be great to exchange views. I'm still looking for accomodation in Reading. Any ideas? There's a Youth Hostel but it's a bit far away (out of town). Have you heard about any nice B&B?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Feb 9, 2005 8:10 am (#114 of 668)
Edited Feb 10, 2005 12:03 am
Hey Mare, long time no chat :-)

True... :waves to Carla: But we will get to chat for real in July! That should make up for that!

Joyce: I would really, really like to go to Accio and meet all of you, but my bank-account is screaming "NO". It wouldn't be far travelling since I live in The Netherlands. But I just moved to a new apartment and I've already booked my trip to London to pick up book 6 there at midnight. So unless I win the lottery somewhere between now and Accio, I'm afraid there will be no Accio for me. Maybe there will be another meeting in Europe (Netherlands or Belgium) in the future.

Well before this thread became Accio centered, there was talk about Berlin. Maybe we can keep that in mind for next year?

::Browses through thread:: Any-one seen Ponine and Sinister Kittens posting lately?

Thanks for your nice words. I only got back here today and I read about your presentation. I'm sure I'll attend. No, I don't know Her. Translators would certainly appreciate that but it seems to be an impossible dream. Anyway, I also hope to meet some of my fellow translators. It would be great to exchange views. I'm still looking for accomodation in Reading. Any ideas? There's a Youth Hostel but it's a bit far away (out of town). Have you heard about any nice B&B?

You don't opt to stay in the rooms the organisation has ready?

Here is a thread on the accio forums about hotels and such, don't know about B&B's. (Haven't really read it that well...

PS Count me in on any back up group needed!

Edit: And thanks for Denise and Gina for still having my doodles laying around! Glad I have them back!

- - - - - - - - - - -
isabel nunes - Feb 10, 2005 1:15 pm (#115 of 668)
Hi Marè

The reason I haven't booked the organization rooms is that I'm travelling with my daughter, who is not attending the conference. I'm enquiring now to know if she can stay there in spite of that. I'm taking the opportunity to take her to get to know London for a week before Accio. She's only 16.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Feb 12, 2005 9:49 am (#116 of 668)
sorry to interrupt you, but maybe you can help me about my concerns...

I am new here in this forum but would love to go to accio. I am only wondering a bit if it is the right place for me to be.

How addicted do you have to be? Everybody seems to know each other, how many people like me will be there nowbody knows? (I´m not good in shake hands and basical small talk) And how much do you have to know about all HP related stuff to have fun there? Am I fit enough in HP themes? And what will be there at accio, what kind of things will take place? How academic will it be, because I am no academic?

Detail Seeker: Did you get any respone on your thread at HPxperts yet? Could you tell me the exact place you have posted it? I would really like to ask you more accio related questions in german thats much easier for me.

Thanks for your help...Cornelia

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Feb 12, 2005 3:56 pm (#117 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Hello, Cornelia ! Thanks for asking these questions here. I will answer some, that I think to be of common interest, here. For german conversation I say a few thing further down.
How addicted does one have to be ? Enough to be member of our forum. As this shows, you care a bit about the books, I think, you will know enough to follow.
We know each other here just from posting here, it will be a first time meeting in real life for nearly all of us. So, no need to be shy.
As I have not yet seen the programm of Accio, I cannot tell you, how academic the topics will be. I think, hope, guess, that there will be lots of related Informations (as Elanor´s Alchemy lecture) and other discussions on the one hand, where one can decide, what is of interest and what not. On the other hand, it is about getting to know each other and perhaps realize, that we are a bunch of interesting people (I hope so)with many interests aside from HP or that we are narrow, one theme focussed real life bores. For me, meeting some of those people that I think I know a bit from the Forum in person is a major reason to go.

At HPXperts, I have, as of yesterday, no answer, though some sixty people, who read that post. You will find it under "Die Karte des Rumtreibers" - "Zonkos Scherzartikelladen" - "Wer fährt zur Accio 2005".

Du kannst mich aber auch privat anschreiben, die E-Post-Adresse siehst du, wenn Du meinen Namen oder mein Bild anklickst.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 14, 2005 6:55 am (#118 of 668)
Hello! I've just read on TLC the list of the topics chosen for the Accio presentations. I've checked the Accio site but there is nothing new there about them for the moment, so this is the link for the TLC informations: Accio. The subjects are really interesting and so varied that I think there is something in it for everybody. We should have more details soon on the Accio site.

Cornelia, it will be a pleasure to meet you! I really hope you will come. I am certain we will have a lot of fun and Detail Seeker is right, meeting you all there will be a great part of it! Remember Sirius? "The more the merrier!"

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Feb 14, 2005 8:33 am (#119 of 668)
Cornelia, I think most people are coming alone. That's why we, cowards (teehee), hook up here, so we are not alone anymore!

And I think the presentations look interestint, allthough the list seems a bit rich on HP comparison to other world stuff. I was hoping for more indepth book discussion.

A well, still waiting for that timetable to see what I'll pick. Funny thing though that they have updated TLC before their own site!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 14, 2005 12:30 pm (#120 of 668)
I found that funny too Marè. I've checked again and this time there is an update on the Accio site about the programme of events, this is the link: programme of events. It seems they are still waiting for other authors to contact them before finishing their timetable.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Dr Filibuster - Feb 14, 2005 4:07 pm (#121 of 668)
Sue, from Northwich, England.
Elanor (Audrey), I'm catching up on forum news after being on holiday for a couple of weeks. I've only just realised that your Alchemy presentation has been accepted.

A belated CONGRATULATIONS to you.

Your alchemy thread is astonishingly well researched (and sometimes frighteningly detailed). When I read it I feel like Harry in the Shreiking Shack; "Dr Filibuster barely had time to marvel inwardly at the effort Elanor put into her Alchemy theories."

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 15, 2005 12:49 am (#122 of 668)
Thank you so much Sue! **going bright red in front of my computer** I'm so happy you like the thread! But I have to share the compliment with the whole team that posts on the thread. It is always a joy to search together there, you should join us!

BTW, will you join us at Accio this summer? It would be great if you could come!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Feb 15, 2005 1:02 am (#123 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I'm with you for a small disapointment Marè. I'd really have prefered more in-depth books discussions too. Well, I'm still not sure yet if I'll come but I'm sure I'll be at least a supporting member, it will allow me to get the copies of the contributions. I wonder if I'm not going to read the alchemy thread little by little, the time to catch with the ideas and concepts in it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Feb 15, 2005 1:52 am (#124 of 668)
Edited Feb 15, 2005 8:31 am
Yup, it all seems so much on the "heavy" side. And very general, except for the Remus Lupin one, there doesn't seem to be much papers defending an existing theory or ship (Would make for fun discussion)
Oh well, it's only part of the weekend.

And on a second look, I think I can find some things that would interest me, and I can also find some things that I don't have a clue about what it would be about!

And yes, drFilibuster, how about you, are you coming?

Edit: D'oh, just remembered, I allready know you can't...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Feb 15, 2005 7:02 am (#125 of 668)
Yes, there are not much papers about theories, I've noticed that too. Maybe is it because of the release of the HBP? The book will certainly ruin some theories so they might have chosen subjects that have the more chances to remain accurate even after reading the HBP. Does it make sense?

And some of the subjects may be funnier than they seem at the first sight. I know they will ask a summary of each paper to be put on the site before the convention, so we should have a better idea about most of them at that time.

It would be logical that there will be some places to talk about the HBP and the new theories that the book will bring, no? I hope they will tell us about the rest of the programme soon with more details about the feast and the other activities. Does anyone know if we should plan to bring a costume for the feast? It would be fun!

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Feb 15, 2005 7:13 am (#126 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
When looked at the list of topics, I was rather surprised to find out, that choosing might become difficult, as many of the themes announced seem interesting to me. Well, like Elanor, I hope, abstracts will be provided in time and online, so that choosing becomes easier.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Feb 28, 2005 7:47 pm (#127 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
Marè - were you looking for me, or someone else? (sort of hoping it was me, because it would be nice to be looked for) I need to find out more about Accio - ASAP... hm. And Detail Seeker - German is not exactly a secret language, you know...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Mar 1, 2005 1:53 am (#128 of 668)
No I was looking for you! Great that you are here, and yes, do look into Accio... The more the merrier!

PS, my banc account is really quite empty, but I'm officialy subscribed: YEEY!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Mar 1, 2005 12:08 pm (#129 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
I WANNA GOOOOOOOOOO!!! I am in the process of catching up on tons and tons of postings, and luckily this is the first thread I chose... Part of me says - what the - this is what credit cards are for, but I also have a sensible side that is not too enthused at that idea.... How many forumers are going at this point? Does anyone (Marè??? have a list, and maybe you all know each other much better than I do - the people who are going/hoping to go - giggling - I can't believe I am saying this - ASL?? I must admit I find the thought of going to England - never been there - finding my way to Reading - and staying there with goodness knows how many people I don't know... Scary!!! But oh, how much fun... I wonder how much time I have to decide? How much are you all expecting this adventure to cost, in total? happy thoughts from a a confused, wavering Ponine. Oh,and PS - I will follow up on the Alchemy thread as well - must educate myself, just in case... Looking very much forward to our other presenter as well - I think the topic was the most interesting I saw on the list. I am a little curious about some of them, but some of them seemed - well - less interesting than I had hoped. I honestly think the highlights of my time there would be to sit down and discuss the books with other adults who KNOW the books like I do, and who care... *starry-eyed* I mean - what a treat... In addition, I must admit that as an aspiring writer/translator, it would be an additional treat to meet a 'real' translator... - torn - (albeit not lying naked on any floor

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Mar 1, 2005 12:13 pm (#130 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
I just had a quick thought - even if people decide against attending the convention per se - there might still be an option of spending some time together at times during the weekend? Or the day(s) following? Just a thought, as the convention itself is a tad pricy for some of us.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Mar 1, 2005 1:44 pm (#131 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
And Detail Seeker - German is not exactly a secret language, you know...

Ponine, it never was meant to.. )

As far as my count goes, we should be about 8 at the moment from our ranks but I am shure to have forgotten somebody. A meeting outside of / after Accio ? It was loosely agreed, that we might add Monday and the rest of Sunday for some touristic efforts of and on our own, so everybody is, of course welcome to join then. Admittedly, the plannings are in the state, that we know, that something will happen, but what will happen is not yet decided.

I have planned to book my flight back for Tuesday evening. That will be the border of my time window.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Mar 3, 2005 1:43 am (#132 of 668)
If you are staying longer then Sunday, where will you stay? Have you already a place to sleep? I think most of us will stay in these rooms on the campus, will you move on Sunday to another place? Just wondering, I have already booked my flights but now I am thinking of postponing the one back, hmmmm, (potter)sightseeing and extended communication sound very interesting...so maybe I can join you when doing so? Has the carsharing idea found some friends? When will you arrive in Reading? My plane arrives at 12.55 / London Stansted...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Mar 3, 2005 2:41 pm (#133 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I have not yet planned, where to sleep those additional nights - as it is not yet clear, what we will do. With Phelim - as I hope - making a proposal, this might become easier.

The car-sharing idea has not yet been rejected and booking a car will not need more time in advance as about a week, so no need to hurry that.

I plan to take a morning machine to have some time to reach Reading. As soon as the schedule is published, backwars calculating can start. If I come to Stansted about that time, too, we might meet there and share the travel to Reading...

A lot of "I do not know yet.."s for one post, I admit it. I promise more precise data next time.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Mar 4, 2005 8:23 am (#134 of 668)
The really bad thing is we still DO have loads of time till July...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 7, 2005 3:00 pm (#135 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Well I am still trying to plan with a friend of mine. And so if I go, I plan to stay at the Halls of Residence. After Accio, we'll then go on to visit in both London and Nottingham. And I may try to catch up with some friends near Canterbury as well. So anyone who wants to hang out in one of those places should let me know and we can try to hook up.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 8, 2005 8:33 am (#136 of 668)
Ahhhhhhh! It looks as if I am going to have to pull out of Accio due to work commitments. Not fair. Don't people realise how serious this is. (Mutter, mutter, mutter)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 12, 2004 6:32 pm (#137 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Phelim, I wish you good luck in fighting off these spoil-sports. Why do dates of good events always get crowded by unavoidable bad ones...

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 11, 2005 12:26 am (#138 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Woohoo ! I'm coming ! I've sent my registration form yesterday ! I'm impatient to see you there. I'll go by train, so whoever will use the Thalys (big hint to Elanor), we can manage a first meeting in Lille.

Phelim, it isn't fair ! Is there anything we can do ? ***think of certain spells***

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 11, 2005 2:11 am (#139 of 668)
Septentrion - love the animation! As to certain spells, I'm not sure about sanctioning the unfogiveable curses. But if anyone has a spare time-turner handy I would love to hear from them.

I don't actually live too far from Reading and if needed could commute every day or find a friend to stay with in Reading (I live about 40 miles away if that) so don't give up hope yet.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 11, 2005 2:48 am (#140 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Phelim, there are other spells than the unforgivable. In fact, I didn't have them in mind, sorry if it sounded so The time-turner idea has its merits, but what about some stupefying spells, or some potions to influence those people who are working about your not coming ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Mar 11, 2005 3:38 am (#141 of 668)
Edited Mar 11, 2005 4:46 am

Okay, first of all, ::hands Phelim some nosebleed nougat:: It was created for occassions like this!

List of forummers coming:
Good Evans II
Detail Seeker
Phelim McIntyre
Septentrion
Elanor
Kerstin
Isabel Nunes
Carla Hodges
Cornelia

(Phelim, I'm thinking positive thoughts and keeping you on the list )

About the possible two days after accio, I plan to go back (or go to Nottingham, or go to where-ever I find I have to be) at tuesday evening.
How much of sunday is covered by the accio program? Does any-one know?

As for where we will sleep, I think that depends on the planning: where do we want to go. Apparently it is going to be possible to register your Accio room for an extra night, but if we go somewhere else, it might be cheaper to rent something in another (smaller?) town.

As for planning things, it's probably easier to wait for the complete accio program yet..

I don't know exactly who will want to join us of the people above, but off course people who can't come to accio are most welcome to tag along! (Liz, Ponine maybe?)

Septentrion: Woohhhooo! It's so good you are going to make it! Did you sign up for the "forum kitchen group"?

And as a final note, I just send of my T-shirt design for the contest... (Squeee, scary!)

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 11, 2005 3:59 am (#142 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
euh...forum kitchen group ? I asked to be with people of the forum, is it what you mean ?

I could stay one or two days more, I'm interested in seeing platform 9 and 3/4 and the Rosette stone in the British museum.

BTW didn't Gina plan to come ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Mar 11, 2005 4:15 am (#143 of 668)
Marè, I´m coming,too. Though I´m more a listener/reader I hope I count as forumer somehow? And Good Luck for the T-Shirt design contest!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Mar 11, 2005 5:48 am (#144 of 668)
Off course you count as a forummer Cornelia! You have been added to the list!

And yes, that's what I ment Septentrion.

And as far as I know, Gina wants to come... But it isn't sure yet...

Same for Fawkes, I think.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Mar 11, 2005 1:09 pm (#145 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I booked my flight back for Tuesday evening from Heathrow, so I am ready for any crazy tour afterwards. And as I said, I will be ready to rent a car for being mobile, if needed.

I will arrive at Heathrow on Friday, 08:40 local time, so if anyone will be there at around the same time, a meeting for the tour to Reading is possible.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 12, 2005 1:15 am (#146 of 668)
Septentrion, that is so great! Yipee!!! To travel together is a great idea. I will take a TGV (fast train) till Lille and we could meet there (BTW, isn't it the Eurostar that goes to London? I thought the Thalys was going to Belgium).

As Accio begins on the 29th, I was wondering if it would not be a good idea to go there on the day before, Thursday 28th, the more because it would give us some time for visiting Reading before it starts. What do you think?

Detail Seeker, I'm ready for that crazy tour afterwards too! To rent a car is certainly the best thing to do.

Phelim, I was so sorry to read your post. I really hope you will be able to meet us there, if only for one day! **crossing my fingers and sending any charm that might help**

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Mar 12, 2005 1:18 am (#147 of 668)
Writing a list is like washing socks, in the end at least one is missing...

My mother in law has agreed in looking after the kids until Tuesday so I can postpone my flight and do some sightseeing...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 12, 2005 1:57 am (#148 of 668)
That's great Cornelia!

Marè: "And as a final note, I just send of my T-shirt design for the contest... (Squeee, scary!)" These are some great news too! I'm sure they will love it! Go Marè!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 12, 2005 3:12 am (#149 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Go Marè too !

yes, the Thalys goes to Bruxelles, the Eurostar to London. I don't know about coming the day before. As for me, it'd be the day before or the day after but not both. I also want to plan some holiday with my husband in April, so I can't spent all my money on Accio. I'm leaning towards the crazy tour We already have Detail Seeker and Cornelia to stay a little longer.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 12, 2005 5:08 am (#150 of 668)
I do actually have from Sunday 31st off as booked holiday. Friday 29th I have to be at work till late in the evening, so I am working on getting Saturday free to get up. So even if Accio turns out to be a non-event as far as turning up for the majority of it is concerned you will get to meet me if you are there.

Now where did I put my invisiabilty cloak to sneak out of work early. On a Nimbus 2003, as the crow flies, Reading is about ...........

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 12, 2005 5:26 am (#151 of 668)
Now done my calculations. I have decided NOT to risk the Knight Bus. The last time I used it I stepped in, well let's jsut say Madame Marsh had been on board. I don't think that the University has fire places so the floo network is out. It will be too light for the Nimbus or the Thestral so it will have to be car or train. This means that I should be in Reading at about 7:30 pm if I have to work that day. If not I will get there asap in the morning.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 12, 2005 5:46 am (#152 of 668)
LOL Phelim! I really hope you will be able to come on Saturday morning **keeping my finger crossed and touching wood at the same time...**.

By chance, would you know how long it takes to go from London to Reading by train? If I take the train I was talking about, it should arrive at London about noon. BTW, do we know at what time events start on the 29th?

That's why I was wondering about coming the day before Septentrion. Unless I go to Lille on the 28th so that we can meet there early on the 29th. That is another possibility, with the Floo powder one too, though I'm sure I would be sick if I used it, so I'd better not try...

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 12, 2005 8:36 am (#153 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Elanor, if you're to go to Lille the 28th, you are to sleep at home ! I live only 50 km.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 13, 2005 2:12 am (#154 of 668)
That is so nice of you Sept! (I've just emailed you about that)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 14, 2005 5:19 am (#155 of 668)
From Paddington Station, Reading is about an hour. There is another service from Waterloo which takes longer. If you are coming via Eurostar then it is easier to go via Waterloo as this means not having to go on the underground. Though it is a direct journey to Paddington on the Bakerloo Line.

When travelling from Paddington I have always looked out for a certain bear, but never seen him. May be I should take marmalade sandwiches with me next time.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 14, 2005 10:24 am (#156 of 668)
LOL Phelim! It is funny because today I was teaching English to some of the 4th years of my school and the lesson was about teddy bears (and a "werebear" actually). Thank you so much for the informations!

**singing "Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, turn around"...**

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 21, 2005 10:29 pm (#157 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Yes, it looks more and more likely that I will be going. Need to book my flight and pay for the Con. But the plans are in the works!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 22, 2005 3:27 am (#158 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Good, Gina !

There's already a "kitchen group" with forum members. Maybe you'd like to join in.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 22, 2005 8:49 am (#159 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
What is this kitchen group? What will you be doing? Of course I want to meet other forum members and hang out. It's one of many reasons I want to go. But I will also be coming with a friend (a fellow Snape fan) who is not a forum member.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Mar 23, 2005 12:47 am (#160 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Gina, you should have written "not yet a forum member".... The "kitchen group" is a bunch of Foumers, that asked to have their rooms booked around one kitchen, so that hanging around together outside of the lecture time becomes easier. The kitchen will be our meeting point - if this is made possible by the organizers, of course.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 23, 2005 4:10 am (#161 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
We have also added you to the Lexicon forum group of rooms.

That's the answer I received from the accio team. So if you (Gina) ask to be with specific persons, they should be able to do it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 23, 2005 7:52 am (#162 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Aaaaah, I understand now.

Well I've already asked to be lodged with Carla Hodge. Is she part of the kitchen group?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 23, 2005 8:19 pm (#163 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
I chatted with Carla today and she told me she's not part of the Lexicon "kitchen" group. But really, the halls of residence are a row of flats--vertical rooms with one shared kitchen. I don't know exactly how many attendees will be there, but the Halls of Residence are all right next to each other. So I definitely foresee us hanging out and I'll be sure to come round and hang out with you all for a bit either Friday or Saturday night.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 24, 2005 3:20 am (#164 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
We (I suppose I can say "we") are looking forward to meet you Gina. I'm looking forward to meet any forum member anyway.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 24, 2005 7:40 am (#165 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Oh, definitely! It's one of the main attractions for going.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 24, 2005 2:13 pm (#166 of 668)
It is great you're coming Gina! Meeting you all is one of the main Accio's attractions for me too. I bet the cauldron will bubble in that kitchen!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 24, 2005 2:29 pm (#167 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
cauldron...bubble...maybe a dungeon instead of a kitchen ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 24, 2005 6:39 pm (#168 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Heeeee.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 25, 2005 8:29 am (#169 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Sooooo, how many of you will be coming with some sort of costume? I will of course bring my wand and I expect to wear one of my homemade t-shirts on Friday and my slytherin outfit on Saturday.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 25, 2005 10:42 am (#170 of 668)
I was thinking to that recently and I think I'm going to try and make a kind of Beauxbâtons cloak for the feast. I don't sew very well but I really feel like trying and my Mom, who worked in a silk factory, has even maybe some blue silk I could use, I'm planning to check that soon. I wish I had a wand though! Well, it is likely there will be shops selling some at Accio so it will be the right place for buying it, isn't it?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 27, 2005 9:53 am (#171 of 668)
I've just seen that the events page on the Accio site has been updated with links to a lot of abstracts connected to the different presentations chosen. I haven't read them all already but it should help us choosing the ones we want to hear. I can't wait!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 27, 2005 1:01 pm (#172 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
At least, there's an update somewhere ! When Gina told she asked to be with Carla Hodge, I felt that name wasn't unknown. In fact, she's one of the speakers I really look forward to hear.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Mar 29, 2005 7:16 am (#173 of 668)
It´s going to be an interesting summer!

About the costume question, where do you get nice wizard dresses? I´m sure I can´t make it to Madam Malkin´s in time and, as you say in german I have two left hands, do-it-yourself isn´t really a good idea...but maybe you can buy some at Accio?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 29, 2005 9:21 am (#174 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
There will be vendors at Accio, but we have no idea what they'll be selling, of yet. I purchased a cape at a Halloween store purchased a Slytherin patch online that I had sewn onto it. I bought a slytherin 'set' from Alivan's (tie, jumper, scarf) along with my wand. I had my own white shirt and purchased a grey skirt at a shop near my home.

I am thinking of getting another wizarding outfit, though. Perhaps a dress like McGonagall wears. But I need to think about it first. Because likely, I will design it and bring the material to my tailor to sew.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Mar 29, 2005 10:27 am (#175 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
oh, that sounds like fun, Gina - are your designs for a dress copyrighted too, or would you consider sharing your ideas once on paper?? Ponine (Who would really love a dress like Gina and McGonagall)

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Mar 29, 2005 6:33 pm (#176 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Oh, no. I'll probably find a pattern and modify it to suit my tastes if I go the design route. I'm not so talented as to design something from scratch!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 5, 2005 12:43 pm (#177 of 668)
I've just seen on The Accio forum that it is now possible to vote for the T-Shirt and cover contests! The vote takes place on their forum only and till April 12th. Each drawing as a letter code and you just have to write them in a post (Marè's T-shirt is letter C and her cover is letter N). Go Marè!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 5, 2005 1:01 pm (#178 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I've just voted and Marè is first. If everyone around here could help, please. Marè's artworks are terrific !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Apr 5, 2005 2:29 pm (#179 of 668)
Oh wait help! I love for everybody to vote, but I'm pretty sure that only people attending Accio are allowed to vote!
they will be posted in a Gallery and then voted upon by members of the conference.
(From the accio site...)

so please if you attend go and vote... but the rest i think is better not... What if they disqualify me?

- - - - - - - - - - -
MoonRider - Apr 6, 2005 12:14 pm (#180 of 668)
Marè: "Oh wait help! I love for everybody to vote, but I'm pretty sure that only people attending Accio are allowed to vote! they will be posted in a Gallery and then voted upon by members of the conference. (From the accio site...)

so please if you attend go and vote... but the rest i think is better not... What if they disqualify me?"

Oops------I didn't think of that, and I rushed right over there, yesterday, and registered.....

Then, just now, I voted for both of your designs, Marè-----I especially like Fawkes for the back of the T-shirt------I think it will be EXCELLENT-looking!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 10, 2005 5:28 pm (#181 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Well it looks like they shut down voting precisely because non-attendees were voting. Oh well. Mare I will vote again, for your programme design.

In other news...I won the dress I wanted on Ebay!!!! Here is a link to the dress on the designer's website for anyone interested (and missed my post on the chat thread).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 11, 2005 4:41 am (#182 of 668)
We all will vote again!

Stay longers(can you write that?)-any Ideas what to do? I´ve never been to GB, but on the map it seems that the places where the films were made are not that far away from Reading. I´d like to see Platform 9 3/4, but I don´t know where to go after that.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 11, 2005 5:34 am (#183 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I plan to stay until Tuesday, Elanor too and so Detail Seeker (correct me if I'm wrong). I long to see platform 9 3/4 too but we haven't arranged anything concrete yet, such as hotel, what to do etc.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 11, 2005 5:48 am (#184 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Platform 9 3/4 is at King's Cross station in London. I don't know where you are coming from Cornelia. But it if you are flying into Britian chances are it will be to a London airport and then you will have to go to King's Cross to take the national rail to Reading. I believe they are about 25 minutes apart by Nat'l Rail.

After Accio, I plan to stay in London until 5 August. Perhaps some of us will make plans at Accio.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 11, 2005 5:53 am (#185 of 668)
I´m coming via Stansted, but it would be more fun to visit King´s Cross together with other Potter-Fans...(and without the baggage)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 11, 2005 7:53 am (#186 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Well, unless you intend to rent a car, you're still going to have to go to King's Cross to catch the Nat'l Rail to Reading. Stansted airport is a bit far out, but they have an express line to London since it's not connected to the Tube.

Yes, seeing Platform 9 3/4 with other fans would definitely make it more fun. Especially since otherwise you are just in an active railway station with people looking at you funny for admiring a brick wall. (Speaking from experience).

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 11, 2005 11:43 am (#187 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I'm willing to share the experience and to take an insane number of photos of said brick wall.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Apr 11, 2005 12:35 pm (#188 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I plan to rent a car for going to plces, but I will do so shortly before the trip, when I know, how many of you will be sharing it, so we can be mobile on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, as my flight is on Tuesday evening. My first sketch of a time table would be: Sunday, and Monday trips outside of London, sleep outside of London to Tuesday, return the car to Heathrow (where I land and start again) and go to London, visit sights there, good bye with or without tears, depart by public transport to the different airports.

Better or more detailed ideas ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 11, 2005 12:49 pm (#189 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Renting a car for several of us is a good idea. But Elanor and I plan to leave London by train around midday on Tuesday (Elanor has a rather long travel to do) so I thought of visiting London on Monday. What do you think, Audrey ? But no idea for Sunday...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 11, 2005 1:46 pm (#190 of 668)
Renting a car is a very good idea indeed! I've checked the train times again and the last one we can take leaves Waterloo at 2.42PM, so we should have only the morning for visiting which is very short. But what everyone else will want to see will be okay with me. As long as we're together, we'll have a great time anyway!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Apr 12, 2005 2:52 pm (#191 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
As for the schedule of the trip, coming to London during Monday would be no problem, too. But remember, we can start on Sunday at noon earliest. so we´d better check ,which sites we want to see and build a tour around those and the time restrictions. After 24.April, I will find time to properly notice everybody´s timetables and wishes and then we can see.

Two more restrictions: I am not allowed to have more than eight people in the car and I cannot recommend sitting directly behind me in a normal car...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 12, 2005 3:28 pm (#192 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Hey, guys. FYI, a friend of mine who lives in Nottingham told me that petrol prices are at about £2.75 a gallon right now. That's not outrageous if 8 of you are splitting it. But I thought you ought to know.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 13, 2005 12:18 am (#193 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Well, petrol prices are outrageous in Europe (the one I use for my car is around 1,15 euro for a liter). For information, one gallon in UK is 4,456 litres, one gallon US is 3,785 litres. 2,75 £ per gallon makes petrol around 1,62 euros a litre, if I don't mess my math.

I really want to see platform 9 3/4 but if there's time for the British museum, I'd be glad for it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 13, 2005 2:04 am (#194 of 668)
If I could join the rent-a-car-group I´d be happy!

I have no idea what places I´d like to visit, I´ll buy a guide... Does anybody know if this changing of the Guard is worth to be visited?

- - - - - - - - - - -
MoonRider - Apr 13, 2005 4:13 am (#195 of 668)
Cornelia: "Does anybody know if this changing of the Guard is worth to be visited?"

I definitely think it's worth seeing-----it's TOTALLY cool!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Snuffles - Apr 13, 2005 4:37 am (#196 of 668)
Olivia
Please make sure you check the dates of the changing of the guard. It is at 11.30am but it doesn't happen everyday. Although Buck House is worth a visit, seeing the changeover and trying to make the guard smile is much better!

Just checked the website, in July at Buck House it is daily at 11.30am and at Windsor Castle it is at 11.00am daily except Sundays. It lasts about 45mins. Hope this helps

Julie

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Apr 14, 2005 3:52 am (#197 of 668)
As a Londoner, just thought I would let you know the best way to get around. Kings cross is easy to get to on most underground lines. However, trains to Reading leave from Waterloo or Paddington stations. The Paddington line is much faster.

Airports:

Heathrow (LHR) - There is disrupted underground service due to the construction of the new terminal. Best way to get into London is the Heathrow express, costs around £16.00 but is only 15 minutes and takes you straight into Paddington (you can go straight to Reading from here).

Gatwick (LGW) - Trains go into London Bridge Station or London Victoria. London Bridge trains usually go all the way to Kings Cross, if you want to see platform 9 3/4.

Luton (LTN) - Trains go into Kings Cross

Stansted (LSD) - Express trains go into Liverpool Street station. From there it is easy to go straight to Kings cross or Paddington on the underground.

If you intend on seeing the sights of London I would advise against hiring a car as driving there is insane. You're better off getting a zone 1 & 2 travelcard which covers all the parts of London that you need and only costs £5. It covers underground and buses in those zones.

If anyone has any questions about London, or need a guide for the day, email me at [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and I'll try and arrange something!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 14, 2005 3:58 am (#198 of 668)
Thank you very much, Harry-ette!

I have an european timetable from the german railway company, but it is impossible to understand ( at least for me).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Apr 14, 2005 5:25 am (#199 of 668)
No problem - the underground runs from about 5.30am to midnight and a good site for overground train times is [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] (click on 'Planning Your Journey' in the top left corner)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 14, 2005 8:37 am (#200 of 668)
Thanks for the link Harry-ette! Septentrion and I will come by train. The Eurostar arrives in Waterloo and I had trouble in finding timetables for travelling from Waterloo. The Paddington line is certainly faster but it will probably be easier for us to stay in the same station then.

It would be great to meet you! Are you coming to Accio as well?

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Apr 14, 2005 9:29 am (#201 of 668)
When it was first discussed I couldn't come as I was going to be in the States. But I suppose I could come now, I hadn't thought about it. In case you're feeling brave enough to try the underground - to go from Waterloo to Paddington just take the Northbound Bakerloo line (it's the brown line on the tube map) It's only 7 stops I think, so will only take about half an hour. From Waterloo I think the train takes around an hour and twenty mins. From Paddington train to Reading takes about 25 mins

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Apr 15, 2005 2:39 am (#202 of 668)
Harry'ette - the Gatwick trains go to Victoria and possibly Charing Cross. (I think trains from Standsted go to Kings Cross)

If anyone is flying into Gatiwck there is a train service direct from Gatwick Airport to Reading.

But - alas - it seems less likely that I will be at Accio. I have ordered a time turner but the Minisry of Magic is being awkward. But I am off the following week and would love to meet up with anyone who is staying on and do a very Harry tour of London.
- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 16, 2005 7:27 am (#203 of 668)
I just read a post from Elanor somewhere else, that she needs a bookshop. I need one too, so maybe we should put a bookshop on the to-do-list? Generally, are the shops open on Sundays? And when do they close during the week?

Very Harry Tour sounds also good!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Apr 18, 2005 1:38 am (#204 of 668)
The biggest bookshop in London is Waterstones, just off Picadilly. I believe it is open on Sundays. It is just down the road from Hatchards which has to be experienced to be believed.

- - - - - - - - - - -
hells456 - Apr 18, 2005 9:04 am (#205 of 668)
I live in Reading and Wiltshire.

I'm not going to Accio, but I would like to meet up with you all somewhere.

One must visit place is Stonehenge, it's about 45 minutes in a car from Reading (and is just down the road from my place in Wiltshire). Even the air around Stonehenge feels alive with magic. It's just a shame that you can't touch the stones anymore.

Hells

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 18, 2005 11:03 am (#206 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Stonehege sounds interesting, as far as I don't miss platform 9 3/4 (I've got a little obsessed by this).

Question for people who knows London : can you give some advice about hotels not too expensive (difficult, I know) and not too much in the outskirts of the town ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Apr 20, 2005 3:55 am (#207 of 668)
Hi again everyone. Almost all the shops in London will be open on a Sunday until 5pm. The only place where everything shuts down on the weekend is the financial city, but there is not much in the way of tourist attraction there anyway so you probably won't come across this area.

About places to stay: I went to the London School of Economics, and while I was there I stayed in university halls. Over the summer the one I stayed in is open to bookings from the public as the students all leave. It is very central (next door to the Tate Gallery on the South Bank), the rooms are just clean and functional. There is nothing like room service or restaurants, but there are 4 kitchens on each floor so there is somewhere to make food. Rooms are form £35 per night and you wo'r find a rate like that anywhere else in the area. The building is brand new (within last 5 yrs I think) so it is modern as well. If anyone wants to know how to book, just post here and I'll give the details.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 20, 2005 4:02 am (#208 of 668)
If we only knew when Accio is finished on Sunday!

So many interesting things to do! Stonehenge, couldn´t we make it on Sunday from Accio to Stonehenge? Maybe the hotels are also cheaper there than in London. After that, all could go to London and gaze adoringly at Platform 9 3/4 and take photos for each other and then do something in London.

Today someone from Italy e-mailed me about car-sharing on friday from Stansted to Reading.

Harry-ette- cross-posted, this sounds very good, do we have to decide fast? I´d be interested if the others are.

But Stonehenge...sirius conflict of interests...

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 20, 2005 7:39 am (#209 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Please Harry-ette, give the details. Your plan sounds interesting.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 20, 2005 7:49 am (#210 of 668)
It sounds very interesting indeed! I would love to hear more about it too!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 20, 2005 3:53 pm (#211 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
I booked a hotel through the British Airways website. They had a range of choices with extremely reasonable rates. You pay the entire booking fee up front, but the good news is you can indicate your country of origin and see the cost of the hotel in your local currency.

The hotel I booked for myself and a friend came out to $566 for 5 nights, or $283 each, or roughly £149 each for 5 nights. And our hotel is a block or so away from the Heathrow Express, in Paddington (and coincidentally in the same neighbourhood where Alan Rickman resides).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 21, 2005 12:22 am (#212 of 668)
Gina- ups, what a COINCIDENT, the world is a village, isn´t it?

Team France- will you go on Sunday to London?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 21, 2005 12:58 am (#213 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Teh team-France hasn't decide yet what they're going to do exactly. It seems reasonable to go to London on Sunday to have our luggage in our rooms from Sunday to Tuesday and not having to deal with them on Monday (nasty memories of dealing with luggage in Paris).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Apr 21, 2005 1:31 am (#214 of 668)
Sorry for the delay, my colleagues gave me some work to do - how unreasonable!

To book Bankside House (which is the residence next to the Tate Gallery) you can call 0044 (0)20 7955 7575. They also have an online booking system at [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

If you go to that website it also shows you other LSE residences in London which you can also book - there are a couple in the West End and a couple in the city. All very central. If you want to ask me about the areas local to the residences feel free. Also, my house is ten minutes away from Bankside, so if anyone needs me to meet them at the station and help you find your way around that's fine - just ask!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 22, 2005 8:06 am (#215 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Ooooooooooooooooooooh, I am quivering with anticipation. Quivering I tell you. The accio website and boards just announced this event, a trial on Severus Snape! Anyone who thinks I won't submit a strong defense for my darling Severus has not been paying attention! I only wish I were finished with all of my course work already so I could get started on it!!!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 22, 2005 8:23 am (#216 of 668)
GO Gina!

He will need all the support you can give him as his loving wife!

They have put the short infos about the speakers on their page, too!

- - - - - - - - - - -
dizzy lizzy - Apr 22, 2005 4:32 pm (#217 of 668)
There is more to life than increasing its speed: Mahatama Ghandi.
In that case Gina, I will send you an even bigger and better "writing charm".

That way you can get all your coursework done in time to put up a good defense for Severus!

Lizzy

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 22, 2005 5:06 pm (#218 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 23, 2005 6:27 am (#219 of 668)
Gina, I'm so happy for you! I knew at once you would love that when I saw about the trial on the Accio site.

I have seen that they have put some other details on the Accio forum. The deadline for sending the arguments is May 31st and the presentation has to be rather short (less than 500 words). It was the same for the abstracts and I remember well how hard it was to write all I wanted in less than 500 words!

I'm sure your presentation will be perfect and I have absolutely no doubt it will be chosen! Count on us for supporting you, and our dear Severus, during the trial! Go Gina!

Harry-ette, I have checked the site and it looks perfect! But, for now, the availability chart only shows Easter 2005 and not yet Summer 2005, so I guess it is still too early for booking. Who else would be interested in booking some rooms there?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 25, 2005 11:25 am (#220 of 668)
May I ask you something? Have you all booked en-suite rooms or standard ones? Because only the en-suite ones are grouped around a kitchen, the others are not.:-( Might be time for an upgrading?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 25, 2005 1:26 pm (#221 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I thought there were only en-suite rooms...Have I missed something ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Kerstin - Apr 25, 2005 1:52 pm (#222 of 668)
To foster the feeling of camaraderie, we are encouraging all delegates to stay on the campus at the Whiteknight's Hall of Residence. Here there are a choice of standard rooms with wash basin and shared bathroom facilities or rooms with en-suite shower and toilet - all single. Rooms of 8 are grouped together in quasi-flats around a small kitchen and lounge area. Tea and coffee making facilities are provided here, and delegates will be able to cook their own additional food if they need. From [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Cornelia, as I understand this, both standard and en-suite rooms are grouped together, the only difference is that en-suite rooms have own shower and toilet (but I could be wrong here). Anyway, I have booked a standard room.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Apr 25, 2005 2:57 pm (#223 of 668)
I have a standard room as well. We will be put together anyway, with or without kitchen!

Phelim, I really hope you can still make it to a part of the meeting!

And Gina, love the dress, can't wait to see a picture of you and dress.

Cross your fingers, with any luck, I will have a new computer tomorrow!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Catherine - Apr 25, 2005 4:14 pm (#224 of 668)
Canon Seeker
Gina et al,

I am so sorry not to attend this conference, if only to see Gina defending her husband Severus.

Aaargh! I am very jealous supportive of all your efforts. Best wishes to you.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 25, 2005 6:06 pm (#225 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Aaawwwwww, thanks Catherine! Wish you could be there too!!!!

Halls of Residence are set up, to my experience, where you walk into the common area from outside. That is where the kitchen is located. Then there is a sort of winding staircase, with bedroom, showers and toilets off the stairs. If you have en-suite, then you have a private shower and toilet attached to or adjacent to your room. If you have standard, then you are sharing the toilets and showers with others in your common set of rooms. Does this make sense?

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Apr 26, 2005 1:35 am (#226 of 668)
Sorry, I think I have interpreted the newsletter from accio wrong. I slept a night over it and I´ll stay in my Standard Room, too.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Apr 26, 2005 3:54 am (#227 of 668)
Mare - if I can get there I will, but as I have the following week off I WILL BE PART OF LONDON. I am trying to get out of work for all or part of Saturday so will get up as soon as I can.

Gina, what will the basis of your defence be? But just to let you know you can not be called to give evidence against Severus because spouses can not give evidence against their husband/wife.; )

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 26, 2005 8:45 am (#228 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Phelim, I will be working on my defence when I've finished with schoolwork, so I cannot tell you the nature of what I plan just yet...

There is no indication that the trial precludes spouses and other relatives from submitting statements. Perhaps you are confusing wizarding practises with muggle customs?

btw, I will be obtaining a UK SIM card for my mobile while in the UK. So for those who will all be in London after the conference, I will be reachable to coordinate getting together. I guess I'll post my temporary mobile number here and on my livejournal when I've gotten it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Apr 28, 2005 2:28 pm (#229 of 668)
Oy, we can vote again... But now I can't check votes after I voted... Is this a general stress causing (for me) thing or is this just me not finding the right button?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 28, 2005 10:09 pm (#230 of 668)
Hello Marè! **waving like mad** I've seen that (and voted again at once of course!). I didn't find a way to check votes afterwards either, but when I submited my vote I saw you were leading the first poll by far then and were very well placed in the second one. Do you know till when people are able to vote?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Apr 29, 2005 12:08 am (#231 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
When I voted (it was after Elanor), Marè was on the lead for both.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Apr 29, 2005 5:50 am (#232 of 668)
Gina - as long as you are not the only wife jumping to Severus's defence!!! We would not like to think of anyone getting in the way of your affections. Also to find that you were not the only apple of the potion master's eye would be too much.

But just give us their names and I'm sure a quick imperuis or obliviate would do the trick ; )

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 29, 2005 7:52 am (#233 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Heh, heh. Well, I've the strong feeling someone is wandering about with a large vat of polyjuice potion and a lot of Sev's hair... Otherwise he's cheating on me and has the ability to be in maaany places at once.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 29, 2005 2:38 pm (#234 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Ok, I went to the Accio forum and I couldn't find where to vote. Will someone tell me?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 29, 2005 11:33 pm (#235 of 668)
Gina, there is a link in the newsletter ("Accio summoning issue 2") Accio sent last week to people who have registered and the link opens a poll window.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Apr 30, 2005 12:49 am (#236 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Interesting, I never got that newsletter.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Apr 30, 2005 4:44 am (#237 of 668)
Immo, I can forward you the newsletter. It will be at the end of the weekend after I moved everything from my fathers notebook to my own computer (New computer! Hurrah!)

PS Did every-one read the thingies about the Hogwarts train, do we want to sign up for that ? It sounds good...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 30, 2005 10:20 am (#238 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Drat. You know, I glanced it over and deleted. I completely missed the URL to vote. Can someone send the link to me privately if you don't want to post it here?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Apr 30, 2005 11:52 am (#239 of 668)
Gina, Immo, I've just mailed you the newsletter, I hope you will be able to vote thanks to it.

Marè, I fear I've missed the information about the Hogwarts Express, I'll have a look at it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Apr 30, 2005 2:21 pm (#240 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Thanks, Audrey, the newsletter arrived and I could vote, though the voting was officially announced to be closed today at 02:00 am BST already (It was 10:00 pm already, when I voted) !

Congratulations on the new computer, Steffie - let´s hope, it does work as it is destined to do and nobody put any bad jinxes on it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Apr 30, 2005 2:57 pm (#241 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks, I got the email and voted too.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jun 1, 2005 8:17 am (#242 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Hey, you guys. If anyone is interested, I posted my defence of Snape on the Snape thread just now.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jun 6, 2005 12:32 pm (#243 of 668)
Congratulations Gina! Your defence is brilliant! I have no doubt it will be chosen.

I was wondering if any of you had really decided what you're going to do just after Accio. Septentrion and I will stay till August 2nd (our train leaves early in the afternoon) and we were thinking that spending that time in London would be great. Would you be interested in joining us there or have you other plans everybody?

I have checked Harry-ette link again but I still don't see any accomodation available for summer 2005 yet. Would any of you have contacted them already to see if it is possible or not to rent rooms there this summer?

July is so close now, I can't wait!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jun 6, 2005 12:50 pm (#244 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks, Elanor!

I'll be staying on in London until 5 August. I'm travelling with a friend, who is also attending Accio. So I guess we'll see what we feel like doing then.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jun 6, 2005 3:37 pm (#245 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
We might use the Sunday afternoon for some tour (e.g. Stonehenge, Privet Drive - I´d get the car), but going to London afterwards and staying there on Monday and Tuesday sounds good. My plane leaves Heathrow in the early evening.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Jun 6, 2005 11:13 pm (#246 of 668)
Elanor - I checked Harry-ettes link, there is a list that tells which houses have rooms for rent for the summer-holidays. It´s somewhere else on that site, not directly where the house-description is. Sorry I can´t remember where exactly it was. Edit: Try the chapter(?) "Date" direct under the heading.

Detail Seeker - Good Idea, I really like to see Stonehenge

What do you all think, get a room in London for the two nights or sleep somewhere else outside London the first night and go to London Monday morning?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 7, 2005 12:23 am (#247 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
If we can visit Stonehenge in Sunday afternoon, then London, all I can say is I'm really willing to do it. As for the two nights, I've already speak my mind but will do it again (I'm very good for repeating ) : it's better to sleep the two nights in the same location so that we won't have to deal with luggage on Monday. Only one question : how much time do we need to see all worth HP locations in London ? Well, perhaps Stonehenge would be too much for the time we have...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Jun 7, 2005 12:49 am (#248 of 668)
Stonehenge is in/near Salisbury, it is easy to reach from Reading (as hells said long time ago), we should be able to make it on Sunday afternoon. But we should decide if we want to see Stonehenge or Oxford, because on the map it seems to be too far to do both on one afternoon.

The luggage shouldn´t be a big problem. We throw it into the car on Monday morning, drive to the Guesthouse in London, check in and leave the luggage, then we bring back the car.

But, now that I read that, it sounds quite complicated for only two days, I don´t know if it´s worth the effort...London has enough to look at in two days...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jun 7, 2005 5:00 am (#249 of 668)
While I am not going to Accio count me in for London afterwards.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 7, 2005 5:57 am (#250 of 668)
Well I'm in for all the fun, I've allready seen Stonehenge (and apparently Oxford too, but I was too young to really remember that) So my personal favour leans to Oxford.
But basically, I'll just tag along for the company and don't mind where I'm going...

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Jun 12, 2005 12:13 am (#251 of 668)
Marè, have you heard anything from Accio concerning the T-Shirt design contest?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jun 13, 2005 12:14 pm (#252 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
I cant go to Accio afterall(hiss boo and stamp foot)0- but would love to meet up with a few of you after (Monday or Tuesday). I can get to London no problome as I am only an hour away by train. My London knowledge is quite good if you wanted to plan out anything in particular.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jun 14, 2005 2:05 am (#253 of 668)
Good Evans - I know just how you feel. Accio is out and I am having to try and meet up with people afterwards in London. Like you I am only about an hour away by train and have a good knowledge of London - so come on those able to go to Accio, count us in. I promise not to be a spoiler re hbp

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 14, 2005 6:58 am (#254 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
That would be a promising meeting indeed... can't wait to meet you all !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jun 14, 2005 7:26 am (#255 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
I have several friends to meet, and was considering doing a big group dinner/meetup at a restaurant or pub somewhere. Sunday night is as good as any, in my opinion. Perhaps something near Platform 9 3/4. Oh, there's a string of pubs and such in the Oxford/Carnaby area if someone wants to pick one. Or I can have a friend who lives in London do some location scouting for me.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jun 14, 2005 9:18 am (#256 of 668)
Oh, it is definitely a great idea to meet all somewhere! "the more the merrier" as Sirius would say!

I have heard from Accio today and they told me that the presentation has been scheduled for 10.50 - 11.50 on Saturday. I will share the 1 hour slot with Susan Sipal, who is from Mugglenet I think, and whose presentation is about geomancy. Wowww.... I am both very excited and very, very nervous. I don't know why but to know the exact time of the presentation makes it more "real" and closer.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 14, 2005 10:31 am (#257 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Sunday or Monday night, provided we are as many as possible

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jun 18, 2005 5:24 am (#258 of 668)
Hello everybody! This time, July is at hand! Maybe would it be time now for booking the rooms in London for Sunday and Monday nights, don't you think so?

Septentrion and I are going to book a room at Carr-Saunders hall, one of the residences Harry-ette told us about some times ago (here). Anyone interesting into joining us there?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jun 18, 2005 6:22 am (#259 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I am interested, Elanor ! Thank you

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 18, 2005 7:07 am (#260 of 668)
I'll join too. Do we sign up/make reservations together, or each on it's own?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 18, 2005 8:55 am (#261 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Elanor and I plan to hire a room together. Carr-Saunders have standard single (28£) and twin (46£) rooms, and twin en-suite rooms (52£). That residence, from what I remember, isn't too badly located and the prices are reasonnable.

But if we are more than two, perhaps should we pick another residence. Bankside House have triple (78£) and quad (88£) en-suite rooms (they also have single and twin rooms). It depends if you're willing to share a room or prefer to be alone.

All prices are for one night, breakfast included. We could join to lessen the expense, let me know if you agree for a common room in Bankside House as carr-Saunders only have sigle and twin rooms. I'm OK to make the reservation and pay the deposit. Just send me your name and adress by mail.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 19, 2005 11:39 pm (#262 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Marè, I've sent you an email about the room. Could you please answer quickly, I just wait for your answer.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 20, 2005 10:06 am (#263 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Elanor, Detail Seeker and Marè : I've sent a mail to book a room for us in Bankside house, I'm waiting for the positive answer from them. Payment details will be taken care in England. Just say that my part is already paid.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Jun 21, 2005 1:36 pm (#264 of 668)
I lived in Bankside House for a year, so if anyone needs to know anything or if you need me to show you where it is on the day, just give me a shout.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 22, 2005 9:35 am (#265 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Elanor, Detail Seeker and Marè : check your mail please. We've got the room !!!!!!!!!

Hary-ette, Good Evans and Phelim, why not have a get-together in London if you can ? It could be Sunday evening or Monday at (nearly) any time of the day. What do you think of it ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jun 22, 2005 9:50 am (#266 of 668)
septentrion - tell me where and when and I'll be there. Platform 9 at Kings Cross (I'm not sure we'd all be able to get onto 9 3/4)? Or somewhere else Potterishly appropriate?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jun 22, 2005 11:19 am (#267 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
It would be a collegial decision as I'm going to hang around with a Potter gang. As far as I know, we are all available at the time I told (Sunday evening or Monday). Nice idea to meet on platform 9

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jun 22, 2005 11:55 am (#268 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
I was staying at the Novotel Euston on Monday night (so with this thread in mind I sussed out the locality) - there is the British Library (whch has a coffee house inside), a bar called o'Neills directly opposite the British Library, which is quite nice.... depending on what time of day (evening) I am not sure I would advocate wandering around Kings Cross alone. or alternative meeeting on Kings Cross station platform. Please remember that Kings Cross is not the building used in the movie. They used St Pancras which is next door!!!! But I am quite open - I dont mind where or when, I can get a train home from Kings Cross directly anyway and would love to come up for a get together. So someone take the decision and advise on the where and when and I will do my utmost not to be late!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jun 23, 2005 1:10 am (#269 of 668)
Good point Good Evans. Platform 9 is not even on the main Kings Cross concourse. It is seperate, with platform 10 and does regional trains, not intercity so it may not be the safest of places. If we're meeting on the Monday the British Museum is a good call.

But how will we recognise each other? By the battered copies of Half-Blood Prince? Seriously though, how will us non-Accios link up with the rest of you?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 23, 2005 6:10 am (#270 of 668)
We could give descriptions, off course, but to be on the safe side, I think we should just carry HP books. That way we will definately stand out and it will be easy to find.

We can also carry an umbrella with a number, but we might end up with a group of tourist waiting for a tour that way....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Jun 23, 2005 6:44 am (#271 of 668)
Would love to meet up on the Sunday as unfortunately have to work on the Monday, let me know who's up for it, meeting at Kings Cross platform 9 sounds like a brilliant idea. Hope to see all of you there carrying your HP books!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jun 23, 2005 6:57 am (#272 of 668)
At least HBP isn't going to be as big as OoP. If so it wouldn't be a case of carrying but struggling.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 23, 2005 7:28 am (#273 of 668)
If we are going to be dragging the book along for the rest of the day, I suggest PS, softcover, pocket version.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Harry-ette - Jun 23, 2005 2:28 pm (#274 of 668)
Hehehe, I agree I think it will have to be PS!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jun 23, 2005 2:36 pm (#275 of 668)
Edited Jun 23, 2005 3:12 pm
I almost forgot But I just booked my flight. I'll be leaving from an airport in Germany only 20 mintes away from my home... if we can find it... Last time that didn't work too well.
And my parents will surely be thrilled to hear that my check in time is 7 o clock in the morning and that they will have to bring me... I better buy a present while in England.

PS Cornelia, I responded to an old post and the travel thread in the accio forums. I arrive at Stansted at 9:25, but if it is a long journey from there to Reading, I'll wait at the airport so we can go together.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Jun 27, 2005 5:59 am (#276 of 668)
Hi Marè! I´ll arrive at 12.55 it´s quite a long time to wait for you, no? If you really want to wait I´ll be happy to go with you! I´m in contact with an italian boy (he calls me a girl, so here is my revenge), so we can go all together.

I´m sorry to respond so late, but my second-live is quite busy right now...

Maybe we should take "Quidditch through the ages" with us to the meeting, it´s even smaller then PS and signal-green.

Now I´ll go and book my room...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jun 30, 2005 2:53 am (#277 of 668)
How are those going to Accio getting to London? Is it by train to Paddington? (May I advise you that the bear will not appear for anyhting other than sandwiches made of the most expensive marmalade and soft white bread, but you have to be quick to spot him.) This intercity service is faster than the Reading to Waterloo, which is the most convenient for those using Eurostar. Or are you coming in by coach or car?

If you are coming in by train/coach after Accio and need help across London with luggage I am willing to help. Let me know and I will keep a look out for all the Accio t-shirts.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 4, 2005 10:11 pm (#278 of 668)
Septentrion and I are getting to London by train (Eurostar) so I think we'll try and take a train to Reading from Waterloo because it will be simpler to remain in the same station. After Accio, I really don't know. But we'll find a way! LOL!

It will be so great to meet you all in London! BTW, I've just seen that it will be possible to attend Accio only on Saturday, they have now a "day membership 9am-6pm" available as the Accio site says: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] So maybe some of you who could not come for the whole weekend will be able to join us there finally!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Jul 4, 2005 11:29 pm (#279 of 668)
Marè - Emiliano, the boy I´m travelling with, has finally made contact with Sally, "the-girl-with-the-car". She will arrive around 12.00 in Stansted. If you like, I ask him to ask her if you can join us? If she has a free seat, we could go by car together.

I´m getting nervous now, Accio is the first time ever since four and a half years I go somewhere all alone, without hubby or at least one child...
- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 10, 2005 10:29 am (#280 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Hey, everyone. Finally, here's a picture of me in the outfit I purchased for Snape's trial and the evening social. Pity my hair is pulled up, as it doesn't look as good. But, do I look like a Potion Masters wife?

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jul 10, 2005 11:18 am (#281 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
Gina - I love it, and trust that you will be wearing it on platform 9 3/4 - it will excuse the need to carry Quidditch through the ages!

all you are missing is a belt with a variety of wooden spoons - for stirring your beloveds potions!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 10, 2005 11:34 am (#282 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks! Cute idea. Heeee.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 11, 2005 1:10 am (#283 of 668)
Have just returned from an eventful week in London!!!!!

If you are going from Reading to London Paddington there are two services. Make sure you get the intercity as it is the fastest service.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 11, 2005 5:25 am (#284 of 668)
Phelim, so glad you checked in! Good to hear from you, all is well, I hope!

And Gina, you look positively enchanting in that dress.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 11, 2005 5:35 am (#285 of 668)
To all those coming to Accio - don't let last weeks events put you off visiting London.

I will keep an eye on the underground service so that I know what is going on for that weekend. I hope it will be back to normal.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Jul 11, 2005 6:55 am (#286 of 668)
Phelim - good to hear from you! I´ll stop worrying now...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 11, 2005 8:07 am (#287 of 668)
Wow - the emails I have recieved, and the comments of concern and relief. I we haven't even met. Thanks everyone.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 14, 2005 6:36 pm (#288 of 668)
Schedule is up. They scheduled Audrey and Steve at the same time... Now who will support Steve?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Denise P. - Jul 14, 2005 6:40 pm (#289 of 668)
Ravenclaw Pony
I will support Steve.....in spirit, at least I would dearly love to go support him in person.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 14, 2005 7:00 pm (#290 of 668)
Well me too, but unless I find a way to splinch myself....

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 14, 2005 7:21 pm (#291 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
For all interested, here is the Accio schedule:

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Jul 14, 2005 7:24 pm (#292 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Yup, thanks Gina, had to work that one out the hard way an hour ago.

Good luck to all of you presenting! Elanor, I just read the little blurb on what you're doing and you should be fantastic! Now if I only I could understand what all you geniuses say on the Alchemy thread… . Also luck to Steve, as it seems that he's right up there with the other important names!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 14, 2005 11:02 pm (#293 of 668)
Oh my! I've just seen the schedule, it's really bad luck. I so wished to hear Steve too! Well, at least, I will hear him at the feast.

I've seen they haven't changed the title of the presentation yet, so I will write them today. I'll mention that I regret the schedule but I don't think it will change anything. Thank you so much for your support Marè! But, don't worry guys, I'll understand perfectly if you choose to go and hear Steve! You'll have plenty of time for reading the paper afterwards!

Thank you so much Finn! You'll welcome anytime in the discussion on the alchemy thread, it's not that difficult you'll see!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 15, 2005 8:52 am (#294 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Hey, just so you know. I am going to bring my digital recorder. So I might be able to tape Steve's presentation for all to hear (along with Snape's trial and other ones). I'll post them up somewhere for everyone to hear, depending on how well the acoustics are, if we can actually hear what is said.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 15, 2005 12:25 pm (#295 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Edited Jul 15, 2005 1:42 pm
That, dear Gina, is a vey good idea. I just wonder, if the organizers will accept this - but we will find a way.

I wonder, what happens, if Steve expressed his wish to hear Audrey...

Edit: I just had a look at the schedule: Steve is just chairing an HBP discussion parallel to Audrey´s lecture. His keynote is during the feast, so we will at least not be forced to miss this...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Jul 17, 2005 9:15 am (#296 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
I am curious to know… since the questions posed in Accio (for Snape's defense) have been answered in HBP, what is going to happen to all those who went the opposite way of what is revealed about Snape in HBP? (Trying to word this the best way without giving anything away.)

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 17, 2005 9:27 am (#297 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
oh oh oh, I don't think we have so many answers, fbv807. Snape and his interactions with other characters are still written in a very ambiguous way (see the HBP folder for more details).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 17, 2005 11:13 am (#298 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Yeah, my defense stands but I might need to tweak it a bit...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 19, 2005 5:48 am (#299 of 668)
The Snape trial promises to be amazing! Count me definitely in the backup Gina!

I've just received some good news from Accio, they have changed the schedule a bit so now my presentation will take place at 5 p.m. on the Saturday, great isn't it? (Though I don't know how I will resist the stress till 5 pm, I bet you'll see me wearing that "delicate shade of green" Ron is familiar with all day long...)

They also said they will change the title of the presentation in the schedule as I asked.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 20, 2005 1:21 am (#300 of 668)
I just saw the schedule on the Accio site was changed, here is the new one: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] . I'm so happy to be able to go to Steve's book 6 panel finally!

They have also changed the charges against Snape for the Snape trial (there are spoilers if you have not finished the book).

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 20, 2005 1:41 pm (#301 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
So, they can scrap all the written playdoyers in this trial, as everybody has to rethink. That will indeed be interesting. Let´s see.

Edit: I just saw the nice short versions of the charges in normal language as opposed to juridical slang. Hilarious !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 22, 2005 1:20 pm (#302 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Oh noooooo. I haven't the time to submit a defence of that revised charge! I hope they'll still call on me. :crosses fingers:

Well, I depart this evening! See you next weekend at Accio! :squee:

- - - - - - - - - - -
Madam Pince - Jul 22, 2005 3:38 pm (#303 of 668)
The eyes are the windows to the soul...
Give 'em heck, Gina! We Snape-defenders are relying on you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Jul 23, 2005 3:26 am (#304 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
You guys have A GREAT GREAT GREAT time at Accio!!! I so wish I cuold be there with you, and to see your presentations, and to meet all of you....

In my heart I am totally there with you all, I can't believe I put off my apparition practice for this long.... It's my own fault...

Enjoy, break a leg, and Elanor, I have mean to say this for the longest time - that picture of you is so beautiful!! Your Beauxbaton outfit will be even lovlier, I am sure And boy did I ever think of you when JK mentioned the four elements in connection with the houses

And Gina! I have complete faith in that you will be able to give Severus the defence he deserves. Doing the right thing rather than the easy thing deserves credit and respect, dang it, can't they see that?!

Good luck to you and enjoy everyone - take as much pictures, audio and film as you possible can!

hugs from Ponine.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 23, 2005 9:47 am (#305 of 668)
Thank you so much for your kind words and the compliment Ponine! I don't know if the cloak will look good there or not but I did have fun making it and I'm sure the feast will be great.

We'll think of you too! I can't believe that we'll be there next week.

I have read in the Accio newsletter that we will have internet access at Accio, I hope we will be able to give some news on the chat thread.

Bon voyage Gina, see you at Accio!

BTW, wouldn't it be time for us to decide what we will be doing on the Sunday afternoon and where and when we will all meet in London? What do you think about that?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Snuffles - Jul 25, 2005 12:22 am (#306 of 668)
Olivia
Just wanted to say, I hope everyone goint to Accio has a great time, I'm so jealous!

Please take lots of photos so we can all see!

Julie

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jul 25, 2005 1:58 am (#307 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
Elanor - absolutley - before it is too late!!

May I suggest someone going to Accio - actually sets the time as those that aren't can fit round, but those that are will have some restriction

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 25, 2005 2:51 am (#308 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
According to Accio schedule, the event finishes on Sunday 14.00. I don't know how long it will take to us to get to London and put our luggage in our room. If it's convenient, a meeting on Sunday evening sounds nice. What do you think ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 25, 2005 3:39 am (#309 of 668)
Here are some train times from Reading to London Paddington.

The intercity service takes 30 minutes!! The stopper takes an hour. Intercity times from 14:30 are 14:39; 14:56; 15:00; 15:12 15:24; 15:50; 15:56; 16:01; 16:24

Hope this helps. Let me know which train you will be on and I will meet you at Paddington to help you across London.

Which Accio goer would like me to email them with my mobile number?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 25, 2005 9:24 am (#310 of 668)
That would be really great Phelim, thank you so much! You can email me your mobile number if you want. I'm going to bring mine (I think it works everywhere in Europe, it worked in Italy 2 years ago, so I hope it will be okay too). Anyway, even if it doesn't work, I'm sure we will be able to find a phone somewhere!

Sunday evening for all meeting sounds great too. Maybe someone knowing well London could propose a place and a time? What do you think?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 25, 2005 9:48 am (#311 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Great ! I don't know if my mobile phone will work in England, it's supposed to..I guess we'll know which train we'll take when we're in the station and not before, and when in London, it'd be nice to take our luggage to our room at once so that we won't have to drag them around and it'll just be better to take the room not too late.

Thanks Phelim for your help !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Jul 25, 2005 12:34 pm (#312 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
Could someone tell me the details? Like, I have this insane urge to just jump on a plane with a small back pack, and track you guys down.... I know it would be stupid and scary and expensive, but I wonder.... How long are most of you going to stay there? Where are you flying in, or is the best way to get there? Is one airport better than another? Are you staying together in London, or scattered around?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 25, 2005 12:48 pm (#313 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
So ,I think, meeting at about 18:00h would be a secure time.I do not reckon, we will manage to be on a train before 15:00. The Circle Line will bring us to our Hotel between Southwark, Blackfriars and London Bridge Underground so that seems straightforward and reduces the risk of missing us or forcing a waiting onto you, Phelim. So there might be a place near the Hotel where meeting up is convenient. Or Phelim, you being the one to know the place best, you might propose a good meeting point and we see to get there.

Ponine: A smaller group of us is staying together in London until different times of Tuesday. Septenrion was so kind to organize the Hotel, where we stay.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 26, 2005 3:17 am (#314 of 668)
Deatil Seeker - Paddington Station is not that bad to meet on. But what is the name of the hotel you lot are staying in? Blackfriars is North of the Thames. London Bridge and Southwark are South.

When I know your hotel I will try and suggest somewhere in London for us to go to as I have been told the Leaky Cauldron is closed for Harry's birthday celebrations. Sorry but I couldn't get us tickets.

I will actually be in London for most of the day so it's no problem meeting you guys at Paddington.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 26, 2005 4:05 am (#315 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Ouu hotel is a residence called Bankside House but I'm at work here and for the life of me, I can't remember its location.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 26, 2005 4:16 am (#316 of 668)
Oh my, my days are flying by...

Let's see we meet on sunday, from accio are coming: Immo, Septentrion, Elanor, Cornelia and me. Meeting us are Phelim and Good Evans and maybe Ponine? Would be so great.

The accio goers stay in Bankside House ( [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] )


You can see it is somewhere between waterloo station and London Bridge station.
Now we can go to diner with our group, but there is also the possibility of joining Gina and some friends. I believe they are going to eat on erm... tottenham road.
And Ponine you asked how long we are staying, most of us leave somewhere on tuesday midday or afternoon.
So we have at least the entire monday to go to Kings Cross, Leicester square ( [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] ) or do Shakespeare or Jack the ripper walks( [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] )...

Anyone got any other ideas?

Edit: On second thought, I think we are three year too late for the cow...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 26, 2005 6:29 am (#317 of 668)
Mare - yes you are too late for the cow, but I can show you one of them. Its in the garden of the House of Lords!!

I know of a nice bar in Covent Garden (just down on the Lexicon Map from Diagon Alley) which we may want to go to. It's called Brewers.

There are some great museums, some superb shops (even if we can't get to WWW or Ollivanders). I am on holiday that week so can make Sunday evening and Monday. So we can have a mini accio. I can't wait to hear how Gina's defence went.

Mare - did you mean that Gina and her friends are eating somewhere on Tottenham Court Road?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Spursgirl79 - Jul 26, 2005 6:40 am (#318 of 668)
MESSAGE FROM GINA

Hi there everyone.

Gina's internet access whilst travelling is not great, so she's asked me to post this message on her behalf.

She will be at The Green Man pub, address 383 Euston Road, London, on Sunday night (July 31st) at 7pm. This is near Tottenham Court Road.

She will post further details when she gets the chance to her Livejournal ([You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] I have also posted the details, including a map, to my Livejournal: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Gina also asked me to pass on her temporary cell phone number whilst in the UK; it's 07881 537181.

I will also be coming along with Gina: it will be nice to meet some of you. We can all toast Happy Birthday to Harry Potter!

Lucy

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 26, 2005 6:46 am (#319 of 668)
Green Man pub - nice venue. We'll look out for the long face as she'll have lost her defence case for Snape ; )

Will be there.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Spursgirl79 - Jul 26, 2005 6:57 am (#320 of 668)
I hope it will be OK.. I trawled up and down Tottenham Court Road last night looking for something appropriate! It seemed pretty big, and does food until 9pm, which were the two qualifications I was looking for.. the fact that the sign outside reminded me of Hagrid was just a bonus

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 26, 2005 9:48 am (#321 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
That sounds enticing ! I've taken note of the adress and number phone (hope I won't loose them).

Phelim, you're welcome to hang around with us on monday as well !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jul 26, 2005 11:44 am (#322 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
sounds good to me - I just have to convince my friend to come with me - but count us in!

oh If I dont get a chance before you all go - best of luck to Gina and Elanor that I know are giving papers and if anyone else is too - break a leg!!! I cant wait to hear all about it!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 27, 2005 1:13 am (#323 of 668)
Thanks Septentrion. It will be good to meet other Forumers.

And as I have a reasonable knowledge of London it may help.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jul 27, 2005 2:25 am (#324 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Oh, people, I envy you so much and I'm so happy for you!

Good luck with your paper Elanor!

Gina, I expect you to make a great defence. I'm sure Snape will prove to be a key factor in defeating Voldemort, it is your job to keep him out of the prison so that he would be able to do the job properly.

Everybody, have a good time and keep us posted!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 29, 2005 5:33 am (#325 of 668)
Not sure how long this link will last, but Accio has made the BBC news website.

Thwe link is: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Spursgirl79 - Jul 29, 2005 6:10 am (#326 of 668)
I was just logging on to post that! I love how they've described it as an Academic conference for 'Highbrow' HP fans!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 29, 2005 9:31 am (#327 of 668)
Well at least they mention Snape's trial!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Jul 29, 2005 3:39 pm (#328 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Seminar topics being discussed around the books include mythic symbols, alchemy and religious identity. --BBC News (emphasis mine)

**thinks of Elanor**

Again, best of luck to you guys! According to my clock and adjusting it to the right time zone, you have just 21 minutes until it turns July 30th! Hope everything is already going well and I will be thinking of you!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Dr Filibuster - Jul 29, 2005 3:51 pm (#329 of 668)
Sue, from Northwich, England.
Bon chance good luck Elanor, Gina and Steve.

To all you Accios & London party posse, remember to report back here as soon as you can. Most of all enjoy your weekend.

Are you sure the BBC said "highbrow"......shouldn't it be yellow eyebrow?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Catherine - Jul 29, 2005 4:08 pm (#330 of 668)
Canon Seeker
Are you sure the BBC said "highbrow"......shouldn't it be yellow eyebrow? --Dr. Filibuster

LOL! At least it's not like when Snape said that the eyebrow-growing jinx was a hair-thickening charm gone awry.

Highbrow....unibrow...yellow eyebrow...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Jul 30, 2005 8:10 am (#331 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Not sure if this is considered a spoiler or not, but it's on TLC, so… if it has to be deleted, then let it be. :: cry ::

Congratulations to Gina and the rest of her Snape crew on a happy verdict! We are so happy that he is not guilty! Hurraaaaaaaaay!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jul 30, 2005 8:20 am (#332 of 668)
Noooooooooooo! I and hundreds of others demand a retrial. After book 7 has come out.

Well we will drink to Gina and co's success tomorrow night in London. Then I will here the technicality that snape got off on

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jul 30, 2005 10:53 am (#333 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Phelim, your request is not at all unreasonable, but...

Woohoo for Snape and congratulations to Gina!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Jul 30, 2005 10:54 am (#334 of 668)
Phelim, I agree! Retrial. Thanks for posting the BBC link. I enjoyed that article. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Snuffles - Jul 30, 2005 11:43 am (#335 of 668)
Olivia
Does anyone know if Mrs Gina Snape got called up to give evidence?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jul 30, 2005 11:57 am (#336 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
Snuffles - Gina was presenting the paper. So it was her debating skills!!!

Phelim - I am still intending to make it tomorrow night - but I am having a bit of trouble with train times. If I am not there by 7.30 you will have to assume that I can't get the times to tie up well enough. (As I must leave London no later than 9.00pm) But I am still hoping to get up for about 6.30 and have about an hour and half with you guys.

hopefully see you tomorrow - I too want to hear Ginas defence first hand!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Snuffles - Jul 30, 2005 12:26 pm (#337 of 668)
Olivia
Way to go Gina!!! Though I think somebody should check to see if her wand is still smoking from performing all those Obliviate spells she must have cast to the members of the jury!!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 30, 2005 1:47 pm (#338 of 668)
no time to read all your new posts. Troels (lexicon editor) has tiny mobile computerthing so here we are to say hi! we are currently at the feast (had pumpkinsoup) and having a grand time. Snape and lexicon Steve modeled greying underpants, carla and audrey presentations went ravingly well, gina didnt have to present but did try to hex us and we just saw a signed copy of book 6 (up for auction) we all say hi! Audrey,cornelia,immo,pascaline,gina,kerstin and new found friends. gina says thankyou for the congratulations and the prosecution (troels) say that he will get himm next time! pictures follow when we get back! ps steve says hi too. pps we meet at the green man pub at seven. here is ginas number if you wish to contact us 07881537181

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 30, 2005 6:23 pm (#339 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Well, we're all glad Snape was found not guilty. But I was not chosen to present anything. However, I am proud to say some of my arguements were chosen for the defence and in fact the second charge was dropped as a direct result of my exclusive argument! I am well pleased. I was informed the trial was not allowing relatives to present testimony. However, in the event Snape was found guilty, I was encouraged to stand up and swoon. But of course we all know I would never have allowed Severus to be carted away to Azkaban.

We are much relieved, and look forward to meeting up Sunday night!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Jul 30, 2005 7:14 pm (#340 of 668)
Congratulations Gina. Gina and Mare thanks for popping in and letting us know how things are going. Is pumpkin soup good? LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Hollywand - Jul 30, 2005 7:32 pm (#341 of 668)
Gryffindor
Hey Audrey if you see this I am thinking of you and I just know your Alchemy presentation went swimmingly!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Eunice - Jul 31, 2005 1:16 am (#342 of 668)
*Snapette & Lupinette forever*
LOL Gina! I'm happy to see you again in here. We need you in the HBP threads...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Jul 31, 2005 2:02 am (#343 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
LPO, Pumpkin soup is interesting. Though I must say, it was slightly more interesting when I added a bit of salt and pepper.

Eunice, I too need to be back in the HBP threads!!! I've got some new thoughts after this weekend and am itching to share.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Jul 31, 2005 5:52 am (#344 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
Gina/ phelim - I have made a note of Gina's number and will text you when we arrive at the green man if we are early, - I am carrying my HP gryffendor scarf tied to my handbag and will have a bemused hubby with me as my friend cant make it!

see you all later

Good Evans aka.. Julie

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Jul 31, 2005 3:01 pm (#345 of 668)
Eunice I am also looking forward to the Accio participants posts. Gina I'm sure you will have some wonderful information to share. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 1, 2005 9:47 am (#346 of 668)
Well Detail Seeker (Immo) and Septentrion (Pascaline) have fallen asleep after a long day of Harry Potter pilgrimage in London. Thank you Phelim for being a wonderful guide!!!
So we, Elanor (Audrey) and Mare- (Steffie) found a computer to check in and say hi.
We look forward to being back on the forums full time because we have a lot of new theories involving mazes, paintings of the giant squid in the Dursleys house, Regulus Black, lots of things involving Snape, a very disturbing theory about Lupin that we intend to shred apart and treacle tart recipes (it's delicious!)
Mare- is very happy because she won at quidditch. Reading Rumblers Rule!

We are going to meet up with Gina and Sally (member to be) in about an hour to do a Jack the ripper haunt and then unfortunately tomorrow we have to go home already.

Thank you all for your words of encouragement and we have missed you. See you soon. ::Hugs::

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 1, 2005 11:39 am (#347 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
For all those watching this thread, I can tell you that we met up last night after Accio (there were about 16 of us, not all forummers but all keen on HP). We had a little photo shoot before I had to leave (about 8.30) and it was great to put some names and faces to user names. Gina, Elanor, Mare, Septentrion, Detail seeker, Spursgirl, Phelim McIntyre and me (and I am soo sorry If I have missed anyone) were all there and now have faces and voices when we read the types. it makes it all a bit different actually! (in a good way). I will let those who were there give the reviews of Accio itself, but the big news was that they intend to run another (I think Detail Seeker said in 2007) so set your clocks (unless of course we organise our own event and get together in Europe before then!!)

Julie

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 1, 2005 6:15 pm (#348 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
I WILL BE GOING IN 2007!! Who will shake hands with me? Or better yet, an unbreakable vow - I am up for it!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Aug 1, 2005 6:19 pm (#349 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
LOL Ponine! Didn't make it down this time, did you, huh?

I'll try my best… I'll only be 15, (14 if it's before August) so that'd be a tough spot, but oh I'd love to make it! Maybe if it's in the US of A that would help… oh, pretty please!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 1, 2005 7:18 pm (#350 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
No, I had to prioritize family and money now, as I am leaving the country in 17 days (yey!) Well, 15 is not bad - what, with the social workers, teachers, lawyers, moms, dads, zoo keepers and librarians we have on board, I think there could be no safer, more well-rounded group of people to be surrounded by... :sillygrin:The fact that we lovingly refer to ourselves at potterheads from time to time may throw a few people for a loop, but nonetheless...

My apologies to all those I may not have listed, btw!


[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 1, 2005 7:22 pm (#351 of 668)
LOL Ponine. I would love to go, espcially if it is in the UK. We could do a Harry Potter tour of the country where they are making the films. Finn you would be in good hands. Where are you going in 17 days Ponine? LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 1, 2005 7:49 pm (#352 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
I am going to study in the states, ND, more specifically. And I will be going for my masters in English... **sigh** I love languages...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Nathan Zimmermann - Aug 1, 2005 9:11 pm (#353 of 668)
I was hoping to attend Accio in the the UK this year but, unfortunately I had no Felix Felicis or galleons. Oh well there is always 2006 or 2007.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 2, 2005 1:44 am (#354 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Hi,

I was really sorry that I wasn't able to go with you on the pub-crawl, but 'prior obligations' and 'force majeure' and all that ;-)

If you don't mind me doing a bit of self-promotion, there's a picture available from the Snape trial here: Snape Trial Photo — as the original poster said, it shouldn't be too hard to see which one is me ;-)

And I'd like to thank everybody there for a fabulous weekend — Rowling is utterly wrong on one count, at least: Muggles can work magic: we did it, together, this past weekend in Reading.

With warm regards,

Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 2, 2005 2:36 am (#355 of 668)
Hi all, finally made it to a computer to post.

Thanks for saying I was a wonderful guide. I'm blushing.

We went to Hatchards (the closest the Muggle world has to Flourish and Blotts), Mysteries, a shop similar to one on Diagon Alley which was very Sybil Trelawny. In fact the area Mysteries is on (Neal Street and Yard) is very Diagon Alley. And we saw the cinema the movie premiers are hald at and then to Hamley's. Not only is Hamley's the worlds most famous toy store but the staircase is just given over to Harry Potter. Photos were taken of the Knight Bus, Womping Willow, wardrobe with boggart. I could go on.

It was great hearing about Snape's trial. Even Gina admits that it was not a fair trial. That the prosecution was not strong enough, that some of the defence arguements were a bit of a stretch, and that she used her wand. I demand a retrial.

The Sunday night at the Green Man was great. Gina appologided that her husband was not there but since Book 6 he is not dealing with the media - I think he has not been released from Azkaban yet. But who cares. The real question is - where were the other Forumers who live in England? Why did they not join us.

This weekend was the first of many European gatherings. Next stop.....Edinburgh? Beauxbatons? Who knows.

But if anyone from England would like to meet up regularly, please let me know.

edit - I also introduced people to banoffee pie. I will be sending them the recipe to that and treacle tart, which I believe they had at the Hogwarts Meal at Accio. I refuse to give people a recipe for cockroach clusters or stoat sandwiches though

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 2, 2005 5:33 am (#356 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
The Guardian has posted its report on Accio 2005, and it can be found here The Guardian report on Accio 2005.

The report makes the conference out to have been dominated by people writing erotic fantasies based on the books,

Then there are the costumed comedians, sprouting cleavage and satin and silk. They are into Potter-erotica. "I love Professor Snape," I'm told by a lollipop lady from Frimley. "He is so hot. It's his buttons! When book seven comes out, I'm going to write a How to Cope guide, comparing the end of the series to the death of Rudolph Valentino." There are the teenagers dressed in Hogwarts school uniform. They meet online to write slash and discuss sexual coupling options. Until they describe their sexual fantasies, they seem quite sane.
I'm sure there were slash writers there; why shouldn't they? There were, however, no-one that forced it upon you, and I never encountered it (I'm sure I've spoken to some, but as I said, they didn't force it upon others).

The most disturbing quotations, however (in my opinion, at least) are in the last couple of paragraphs. I have to quote them in full as I can't find an appropriate way to paraphrase this:
And finally there are the Potter scholars, dressed in suits, carrying Humbert Humbert briefcases and talking about a Derridean reading of Rowling's corpus. Their king is Steve Vander Ark, a children's librarian from Michigan who invented the Harry Potter Lexicon, the online Potter dictionary that Rowling herself uses. I run into Vander Ark at the feast, surrounded by his dazed acolytes. "The astronomy in Harry Potter is interesting," he is saying. "At one point Jo says you can see stars and moonlight. But there is a problem here. You can't really see stars when there is moonlight. Astronomy is just one of the things JK doesn't know very much about."

Vander Ark looks like an actuary, and he speaks of Rowling with disdain - as though she owes him something. No one at the table challenges the librarian and, as I return to the Muggle [non-magic] world, passing some wizards photographing a pair of Snape's underpants and a gently hiccuping witch, it occurs to me that I sensed a faint resentment of Rowling in Reading. She is the scribbling reminder that the Potterheads' preferred world is an invention. The delegates do not want to read about wizards; they want to be them. "Is it necessary", Vander Ark asks in his symposium, "for JK to die for us to live?" He pretends he is joking, but I'm not sure. Rowling has made a world for the Potties, but gratitude is a double-edged wand. Ms Rowling beware; a forest of them is pointed your way.
What on earth does she mean?

Sorry, actually it's quite clear what she means, but I don't recognise any of the implications she implies. "Resentment"& Had Rowling been in Reading she would have been greeted with reverence. Yes, there is a clear recognition of Rowling's limitations — despite our respect for her, she is human, and as such limited. It can hardly surprise anyone that there are people among her fans who know more than her about our own special subjects, but those that I have met have never given me the impression of looking down at Jo for that: after all we recognise that she is far better at telling a story than us, and that is the quality we respect her for.

Regards, Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Aug 2, 2005 6:28 am (#357 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
Hmm, the Guardian used to be my favourite paper, but after that...I'm not impressed. I have never got any of those impressions that the reporter claimed to have from anyone in the HP world. Some people go out of their way to be critical and I'm not entirely sure if the person who wrote this even likes Harry Potter. If they don't, why bother going to Accio? I would have happily taken their place and written rave reviews!

The stuff on fanfiction is taken way out of context. You'll find that with any popular book, Lord of the Rings etc., all have it. I have never had it forced down my throat. If you don't like it you don't read it.

Why wasn't I at Accio and London afterwards? Lack of money and an overprotective mother. I'm now about to move halfway across the country (width-ways) to work for 7 weeks and she's coping fine with that! Hasn't even complained that I'll be in a city train station on my own. Count me interested for any future meet-ups with the people from the UK! I am about to embark on three years of being skint at uni though...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Madam Pince - Aug 2, 2005 6:58 am (#358 of 668)
The eyes are the windows to the soul...
Welcome to the Lex Forum, Troels, and thanks for posting that link. I must agree with azi, though -- some people just have no imagination whatsoever, do they? It's as though they are embarrassed to enjoy anything. Is it the stereotype of that "stalwart, stiff-upper-lip, can't-get-excited" attitude or what? That's OK, we can take it. We're used to the fact that media snobs think we're "silly."

Well, there are just some people who are bound and determined to dislike JKR's work, regardless. Keep reading the reviews on The Guardian's link and you'll see lots more of the same. I got a particularly perverse enjoyment out of Robert McCrum's review -- he spoke dismissingly of JKR wanting (unsuccessfully, he implies) to "break into the big leagues." Hmmmmm... I haven't stood in line at midnight to read any multi-million-dollar best-sellers by Robert McCrum lately... have you? Those who can, do; those who cannot, snipe.

Edit: OK, I googled McCrum and apparently he has written some successful stuff, but just not lately, and clearly not as successfully as JKR. Perhaps his illness has made him crabby.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Denise P. - Aug 2, 2005 7:10 am (#359 of 668)
Ravenclaw Pony
I was not there but knowing what I know of Steve (from his postings and the Lexicon), I doubt he spoke of Jo with "distain". She will be the first to admit that her knowledge in certain areas (maths, for example) is lacking and she often has fans catch stuff that she never saw. I think Steve has nothing but respect for JKR.

Troels, didn't you used to post here some time back? Your name seems familiar.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Chemyst - Aug 2, 2005 7:28 am (#360 of 668)
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up." A.A. Milne
This is not totally on topic, and someday it might get a thread of its own, but since some have expressed hope for an Accio-type event in the US, you may want to check out this website for Lumos — July 27-30, 2006, Las Vegas, Nevada .

(Their symposium's theme "Back to School" which in light of Harry's comments in 'The White Tomb' ... )

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ydnam96 - Aug 2, 2005 7:42 am (#361 of 668)
I am shocked someone would write an article like that. Shame on them. If I lived in Britian I would refuse to buy the paper out of protest!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 2, 2005 7:54 am (#362 of 668)
I do not know Steve but anyone who would spend the time to put together this marvelous Lexicon must have nothing but respect for JKR and HP. How insulting.

Madame Pince on Barnes and Noble's Fantasy top ten list HP books take up 6 spots. HBP is first of course and SS second. This is a book that has been out a while. I do believe Jo is the big league. She is very rare in that she sets her own deadlines. How many authors can say that?

Thanks Chemyst. Sounds interesting. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 2, 2005 8:44 am (#363 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Madam Pince, thank you for the kind words of welcome ;-)

And Denise, I don't think I've ever posted here before. A little on TLC and HPfGU, but mostly in alt.fan.harry-potter. I did let (I don't recall her screen name [just checked — it was Mare]) use my phone to post from the feast at Accio on Saturday evening, but to the best of my knowledge that is the closest I've been ;-)

You may have seen my name on the lexicon, though (http://www.hp-lexicon.org/library/ref/).

I believe I spoke to the journalist from The Guardian, Tanya Gold, while at Accio. At least I spoke to a British journalist that someone told me was from the Guardian, but apparently I didn't say anything interesting (i.e. something that could be used in either the sexual fantasy or resentment for Jo department). She did seem nice enough, which contributed to my surprise (and, I admit, disappointment), when I got to read the piece (I'd been told it would be in today's paper — now I am just glad I chose to read it on-line before going in search of it in Copenhagen).

Of course Steve never spoke about Rowling "with disdain", but with respect and a healthy realisation that Rowling isn't omniscient and that her sub-creation isn't a complete reality, and of course the conference wasn't awash with slash fantasies — I dare say I'd have smelled the pheromones if it was ;-)

The furthest I can recognise is that there was a realisation that we, as fans, have a more complex relationship with Rowling than what might be suspected: it is not just her delivering the stories and us adoring. Rowling does depend on us in some ways, and I think there is a growing realisation that we, as a community, have a certain limited influence on the stories, that we do have a power to help shape the books. But to take that, and make it into a feeling of "faint resentment" or claim that the people there actually "do not want to read about wizards; they want to be them" is ludicrous.

I am, however, still somewhat worried of the effect of such an article. We, the adult Harry Potter fans (regardless of whether one was actually present or not) are being portrayed as either seeming "quite sane" — "until they describe their sexual fantasies" or filled with an arrogant disdain and resentment against Rowling. What does it help that we agree that Gold is wrong; others will only see that she was there, so she must know.

So far the portrayal of adult Potter fans in the Danish media has been quite benevolent: we're seen as quaint, but in a nice way ;-) I know there's a program coming up on Danish TV including scenes from Accio, but since both those taping it and the producer (they assured me) are Potterfans themselves, I hope the story will be far kinder. But I can't help being worried . . .

Regards,

Troels Forchhammer

- - - - - - - - - - -
Spursgirl79 - Aug 2, 2005 9:05 am (#364 of 668)
That journalist sounds a bit Rita Skeeterish to me

I had a great time on Sunday night meeting some of you guys. I think it would be a great idea to do some more UK based meetups if possible. Perhaps a trip to the cinema together to see GOF in November??

Good Evans: seeing your very cool scarf on Sunday has made me want to knit my own one.. I asked my mum if I could borrow some of her knitting needles.. she was intrigued (and I think a little concerned that I was announcing in a roundabout way that I was pregnant and wanted to start making baby clothes!).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 2, 2005 9:24 am (#365 of 668)
Spursgirl79, I am trying to picture you but the area between site names and real names is becoming blurred.

Azi - where you of to for uni? Listen I didn't tell my mum where I was going till afterwards. I'm 33 but still she didn't want me to go. But anyway if you want to be part of the meet up let us know.

Also, how is this for a possible title for a Harry Potter Gathering - Hogsmead Butterbeer Festival?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Nathan Zimmermann - Aug 2, 2005 9:57 am (#366 of 668)
Phelim Mcintyre, I like that title. I also hope that you and the other who attended the conference had an enjoyable experience.

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Aug 2, 2005 10:57 am (#367 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
I'm zooming off to York! I love that city! Apparently it has a bar/pub/club for every day of the year...shame I don't drink much alcohol... Of course, Results Day is 16 days away and I don't know if I've got the grades yet to be allowed there. If I don't get them I will be very surprised, but knowing my luck...

Glad to know I'm not the only one with a slightly Molly Weasley style mother. I'm already well-versed at little white lies such as 'I'll be with lots of friends' when I'm really with one, that sort of thing. It gets annoying when she's worrying about you going to town alone during the day when you've been doing so for the past two years during college.

I also like the proposed title, Phelim! Ooo, and welcome Troels! You fit in so well I barely noticed you were new. I still say The Guardian is my paper of choice, even though that report was disgusting. I suppose I like everything else about it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 2, 2005 11:17 am (#368 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Hi ! I'm back home now ! I had a great time meeting all those fans and Lexicon members ! I wanted to tell you about our wonderful time but people had beaten me to it.

Snape's trial was fun. I voted for innocence for all charges (sorry Troels) and the cheers were noisy when the verdict was told. Yet they had to count twice the "guilty" votes for the last and worse accusation but eventually, the "not guilty" won.

Still many thanks to Phelim for introducing to banoffe pie (who else than the British could do a toffee-based pie ?), it's delicious, and for being our guide in London. You were just perfect !

about the article, I think Rita Skeeter has really gone muggle and writes for the guardian. She has been totally unrespectful of the fans we are and I can tell you the Lexicon forum crowd I hanged around with this morning was upset with what she said about Steve. You wonder if she was really present.

Spursgirl, I don't picture you either. Could you tell which person you were around the table ?

I'll have part of my photos this week-end. My husband will finish the current film in ten days, so I'll have the next ones afterwards, provided I have successed to take decent pictures.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 2, 2005 11:34 am (#369 of 668)
Septentrion - so good to see that you got back safely.

Azi - to do what? There are loads of Diagon Alley type places in York. And I think the Hogwarts Express is kept near there. I know it was vandalised at York. Enjoy the place. (I hope you get the required NEWTS, I mean A Levels!)

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Aug 2, 2005 11:45 am (#370 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
Glad to hear everyone's getting back safely! And thankyou for the good luck! I will be studying Environmental Science, which is basically a mix of Biology, Geography and Earth Sciences (Geology etc.).

I would expect the Hogwart's Express to be kept at the National Railway Museum, which is free to enter. I know the Mallard was there last time I went, but the Flying Scotsman tends to move round the country since it's privately owned (or was at any rate...). Can you tell I was dragged around railways when I was younger?

The Shambles are definately very much how I imagine Diagon Alley to be! The whole of York is full of history that isn't just the Industrial Revolution so it's my kind of place. All the little alleyways and streets just encourage you to get lost there! The shops on the Shambles are often individually owned rather than being part of a chain so that adds more 'Diagon Alleyness' to the area.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Eunice - Aug 2, 2005 12:31 pm (#371 of 668)
*Snapette & Lupinette forever*
It must have been so much fun. Where will the next meetings take place? I fear that none'll be in Italy... I really don't know how many adult fans of HP there are in Italy. I suspect there are many, but they seem shy. I have just a couple of friends that read HP.

I can't wait for the new theories, Elanor. Have you o someone else already posted them?

About the article, I must confess that I've read and written a few HP slash, but this doesn't exclude a *serious* fandom and/or criticism. To think that all the HP fans read HP in order to make slash fantasies is just stupid.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Spursgirl79 - Aug 2, 2005 12:35 pm (#372 of 668)
Septentrion/Phelim.. I was sitting on the corner of one of the tables near the wall, opposite from Gina.. I've just added a pic of myself to my livejournal ([You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] my hair is longer now, but you get the idea!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 2, 2005 1:55 pm (#373 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
Lucy - I remember you - and best of luck with the knitting!!!

Phelim - count me in anytime, but not a Sunday night - please please please!!!

Julie

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 2, 2005 2:16 pm (#374 of 668)
Edited Aug 2, 2005 3:12 pm
Hello everybody! I just pop in to say "hi" and that I came back home safely too, about half an hour ago, after having spent 10 hours in trains (next time, I apparate! ).

We had the most wonderful time in Accio and London! It was so great to meet you all. I miss you! **waving like mad at everybody**

Troels, I'm so happy you found your way here! Ready to debunk a few theories?

I was so upset by this article. Rita Skeeter was really amongst us. What she wrote has nothing to do with what we lived at Accio and Steve's presentation was really wonderful, clever, funny... The words of a true fan for other true fans. Though coming from many countries, we were all speaking the same language there, the HP lovers one (that that woman obviously can't speak). I am certain that if Jo had been at the feast she would have loved it as well. I'm also so sorry for the Accio staff who worked so hard for that event. I do hope they will find a way to protest about what she wrote: this was nothing but mockery and calumny, not the work of a journalist.

I am too tired now for giving you all the details about the conference and our stay in London but I promise I will do it tomorrow, we all have a lot to say!

Again, thanks a lot for your wonderful words of encouragement everybody and the biggest ((((((((((hug))))))))))) ever to the Accio/London dream team.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 2, 2005 2:43 pm (#375 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Thanks Spurgirl, I think I get you now

Waves to Elanor, glad to see you came home safely !

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 2, 2005 3:31 pm (#376 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
It sounds lovely!! If it hadn't been for the fact that you are all so darn likeable, I would have been incredibly jealous, but I am just so happy that you had a great time... The Guardian is absolutely ridiculous, and I may be dense/slow/stoopid, but I had never heard of slash or slash fiction before??? And BEING a wizard, and resenting JKR because she created HP? I was not even there, but I still feel patronized and mocked! I am sorry, but someone got their robes in a bunch (and you know that's gotta be bad...) I say bring out the Howlers. And bat-bogey hexes. And the puking pastilles.

*waiting eagerly for details and presentations and minute by minute accounts... **

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 2, 2005 4:02 pm (#377 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
If that skeeterlike womn wants to bring a wedge between Rowling and Steve in particular, I know, she will not manage. But all that slander is hard to get at. I am shure, she has poken to slash fiction writers and maybe, she put those words ino their mouth. I remember the person, she seems to cite there. She was not dressed as a Viking, just normally slytherinesc. But disprove her - impossible.

If a "we will not even ignore this" option is the right thing to do, I do not know. This evening (it is 01:00 my time now), I will write a letter to the editor. I hope to find a few nice, but hurting ways of writing it ("A Gentleman is somebody, who never steps on anybody´s toes..... untintentionally ")

As you can see, I returned well, too. Thanks to everybody, who made this tour an unforgettable event. I was happy to be in your ranks. I hope to see more Forumers next time - it really is fun !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Nathan Zimmermann - Aug 2, 2005 4:49 pm (#378 of 668)
Detail Seeker, Elanor and all the other who have now returned safely. I am glad to see that everyone has returned safely home and I hope that everyone enjoyed themselves.

The article from the Guardian reads like a Rita Skeeter article, in that the article that attempts to engage in mudslinging and causing strife and discontent by twisting fact and interpolating fiction beccause, everything I have read both on the Lexicon, and the Forum the members and staff have shown nothing but the utmost respect for J.K. Rowling and to attempt to demonstrate otherwise is nothing but a demonstration of a lack of proper research resulting in ignorance.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Cornelia - Aug 3, 2005 12:42 am (#379 of 668)
Just here to say "Hi!" I returned home late and safe.

Thank you Phelim for guiding us and showing us so many Potterish places in London!!!

To all the others: I really enjoyed the time with you and I hope we´ll meet again some time next year!

PS Quirin loved Norbert

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 3, 2005 2:30 am (#380 of 668)
Edited by Kip Carter Aug 3, 2005 5:10 am
Immo, Cornelia, I'm so glad your travel back went well! **waving like mad**

I promised some details about Accio, so I'd better begin now or Ponine will jinx me as well (just kidding!). I'll send the pictures I took to Marè so that she put them online and you will be able to see them.

So, after spending a wonderful afternoon visiting Lille and discussing the HBP with Septentrion on Thrusday afternoon, we both took place in the Eurostar on Friday morning before taking the train for Reading together (we now both know the perfect intonation to give "This train is for Reading" for having heard it again, and again, and again in the train! LOL!). We met other people going to Accio while waiting for the (wrong) bus in Accio, their HP bags and other stuff clearly telling why they were there and all together we tried to find the right building when we finally arrived at the university, which was not as easy as it seems to be at first!

When we finally arrived, we were immediatly put in the HP mood when we received our Accio bags and saw all those people in HP costumes. So, we decided to put our Beauxbatons cloaks for the events of the evening. We met Steffie (Marè) and Immo (Detail Seeker) just before the events started and Cornelia a bit later. It was so great to meet them in real!

The conference began with Ali, the Accio chair, welcoming us with a perfect Umbridgesque "hem, hem" and starting with the most important question, how should we pronounce "Accio". We voted to decide what it should be. "Akkio" won but I couldn't help but still pronounce it "actio". It was all very funny! Then keynote speaker Edmund Kern's presentation began ("The phoenix in HP- The metaphoric power of the past") and I really loved it, though I may be a bit biased about it since he talked a lot about alchemy and the phoenix symbolism and it matched perfectly my paper and theories!

Then, we had the first dinner and there were all sort of HP/typically British food to taste. I liked the steak and kidney pudding very much and, we were all thrilled to finally be able to eat treacle tart!

Then, it was Snape's trial and Snape's panel but I'll let Gina tell you everything about it! I voted "not guilty" for all charges (sorry Troels!), there was still the benefit of the doubt for Snape. Gina's comments during the panel were really great!

Septentrion and I were too tired to stay for the "filking" afterwards but it seems it was funny too. So, this was our first day. I'll post about Saturday later!

Kip's edit: I added (Marè) after Steffie's name.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 3, 2005 3:11 am (#381 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Edited Aug 3, 2005 3:46 am
Well, I shall go on telling about Saturday. We attended several lectures on very different subjects such as "the anatomy of power and the conquering of the self in JKR's work", ghosts, characterisation of R Skeeter, D Umbridge and B Lestrange, and of course alchemy. Elanor was very nervous about her presentation, which was perfect as we knew even before she made it. Unfortunately, the other person who should have made a presentation with Elanor was prevented to come and Troels had to read the other paper. Steve conduct a panel about book 6, it was very funny !

The feast at night was much fun too. There had been an auction for charity : Snape's underpants went for more than 100 pounds, especially after Steve had advertised them (and had had them put on his head LOL), and an authentic signed copy of HBP (which I was able to see very closely) went for 530 pounds. Steve's speech was very apreciated, but I must warn you that he put the DIGS theory in the open, speaking of "overanalyzing" Jo's work ! And there were so great costumes !

Afterwards, some round tables were organised. Elanor and I went for the "why did DD trust Snape", which was kind of a Lex thread in live. Of course, Gina was conducting it We stayed a little moment but we needed to go to sleep before the end. Well, the round tables began at almost midnight so no surprise that some of us were over-tired.

Sunday's tale will come soon...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 3, 2005 3:40 am (#382 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!

*has lowered her wand (! ) and is sitting, listening intently...**

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 3, 2005 4:02 am (#383 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Hi,

It's good to know that you people are getting home safely.

Meeting you all was "magic beyond all [they] do [at Hogwarts]"! I was overwhelmed by the warmth and acceptance with which I was met — thank you!

Warm regards,

Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 3, 2005 4:35 am (#384 of 668)
It was wonderful meeting you too Troels! And thanks again for the help during my presentation.

Septentrion: "Elanor was very nervous about her presentation." This is a very kind euphemism Sept! The truth is that I was scared to death (picture Ron before a Quidditch mach and you will have a pretty good idea of what I felt) but fortunately I had the most wonderful team of supporters in the room.

I was supposed to share the time-slot with Susan, from Mugglenet and, till the beginning of the afternoon, we were still hoping she would have been able to come but she couldn't so Troels replaced her. He first took care of the Powerpoint presentation I had made and made it scroll during the time I spoke and I tried to do the same for Susan's, who had prepared one as well, when he read it. When speaking, I had the horrible feeling that the more I was reading, the worst my accent was but everything went well, though I had to shorten the paper so that it would fit in the 30 minutes allowed. A lot of people told me they have liked it, so I was very pleased, the more when Edmund Kern himself told me he enjoyed it, that it was a wonderful job and that he wanted to read the whole paper! I was so much thinking of the forum and the alchemy thread, dying to tell those who like the thread that our ideas have been appreciated!

I liked very much the presentations we heard on that day too though, to be honest, I have no idea the one just before mine was about, LOL! I hope they will be all soon online on the Accio site so that you can read them all. I know that the whole proceedings, updated in regard of the HBP, will not be released before the end of the year (we have till October for doing the update) but the actual papers should be online till then. The book 6 panel, moderated by Steve, was great too, the more because we were all so keen to talk about the HBP.

The feast was just wonderful! We really had a great time as you'll see on the pictures. Steve's presentation was brilliant. You should have heard the racket our table made when we saw the DIGS initials appear on the screen during his presentation! Of course, the other people had no clue what it was about and were giving us odd looks, till Steve said we were the Lexicon forums group... BTW, we were all convinced it was NOT an "overanalyze" but one of the funniest theories ever!

The auction was really funny too and the Snape round table great. Too bad we were too tired for staying till its end. I'll tell you about Sunday later!


- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 3, 2005 5:53 am (#385 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Elanor wrote on Aug 3, 2005 4:35 am in message #384

Septentrion: "Elanor was very nervous about her presentation." This is a very kind euphemism Sept! The truth is that I was scared to death (picture Ron before a Quidditch mach and you will have a pretty good idea of what I felt)
Well, there was no need for that, and if I were, at times, a bit slow to change the slides, it was because I was actually listening.
A lot of people told me they have liked it, so I was very pleased, the more when Edmund Kern himself told me he enjoyed it, that it was a wonderful job and that he wanted to read the whole paper! I was so much thinking of the forum and the alchemy thread, dying to tell those who like the thread that our ideas have been appreciated!
For me the second-best thing about participating at Accio (the best thing was the warm friendship I met everywhere; despite arguing the case against Mr Severus Snape) was the chance to look through other people's sunglasses (to use Steve's metaphor). The opportunity to discover, and to see this wonderful sub-created world from the perspective of, so many new and interesting interpretative/predictive frameworks.

We all tend to focus on our own way of reading the books: I am trained as a physicist, and I have been taught that the physicist's way of looking at the world is with clear sunglasses (you can tell I'm really fond of the metaphor, can't you), but it has been a fantastic eye-opener to see how beautiful Rowling's world can be when seen through coloured sunglasses (try wearing a pair of sunglasses for a whole day: in the end you just don't see the colour filtering from your glasses — intellectually I know that my glasses are coloured, but I can't really accept it as anything but objective anyway).

Of course, if Rowling should consciously be evoking the symbolism of so many diverse viewpoints as were presented at Accio, she would have to be probably the most knowledgeable person in the world, so quite a lot of it is of course subconscious. The point where I think we can truly achieve huge progress in terms of predictive interpretation of the books is when we can identify intersections between various interpretative/predictive models: if the same predictions come out from an alchemical, a psychological and a historical analysis of the books, then there is a far better chance that the prediction will come true.

So instead of in-fighting ("Booh! Nobody seriously believes in psychoanalysis!") we should join forces. The role of the scientific method (which I obviously represent) in such an endeavour would, as always, be that of stressing the import of falsification. Both with respect to ensuring that the emerging theories will be falsifiable, but of course also, hopefully, providing that sanity check we need.

Yes, that will definitely lead to over-analysis, but once we can weed out all the parts that are not supported by more than one or two interpretative frameworks ('supported' — not merely 'not falsified by'), then we'll have a synthesis that is not dependant on one specific way of analysis.

That's beginning to sound suspiciously like a mission statement, isn't it ;-) — "To utilize the synergy in a cross-disciplinary approach to a interpretative/predictive analysis to achieve a synthesis of predictions" ;-)

Anyway — if there is one thing I come away from Accio with, it is the firm conviction that it is not enough to look at the books from one point of view. The scientific method, psycho-analysis or alchemy: none of them can, alone, provide the analytical strength needed to break Rowling's code. Only by a synthesis of methods do we have any real hope.


we are only as strong as we are united
Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Regards,
Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Chemyst - Aug 3, 2005 6:42 am (#386 of 668)
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up." A.A. Milne
"To utilize the synergy in a cross-disciplinary approach to a (sic) interpretative/predictive analysis to achieve a synthesis of predictions"

Ah, ha! Canon support for this statement is found in GF24. It is officially called gobbledegook.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Aug 3, 2005 7:12 am (#387 of 668)
Well hello, I returned to my computer as well (for a few hours, I leave for Cannes tonight)

Troels, good to see you here!
I'm going to try to post some pictures but a lot of mine are not so good. Using a flash gave bad lighting, but without a flash the photo's are blurred because the camera took a longer time to let the light in...

anyway, here are some pictures:

In the Green Man
From left to right: Audrey, Immo, Gina, Cornelia, Pascaline, Phelim, Julie and Steffie.
(Or: Elanor, DetailSeeker, Gina R Snape, Cornelia, Septentrion, Phelim, Good Evans and Mare-)

at the Feast
Steffie, Immo, Steve, Pascaline, Kerstin, Gina, Cornelia & Audrey.

All the pictures I uploaded so far e.a. The greying underpants, Troels as a microphonestand, Audreys presentation, Pumpkin soup etc.

And as for the guardian: , that is the first and last issue I bought of that paper. <- First time ever I feel I have to use that smilie...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Aug 3, 2005 7:24 am (#388 of 668)
Steve with greying underpants on his head... (picture originally from Johno's Accio Gallery)
I wanted to replace the Lex logo on the forums with this, but I'm not sure how long I would have been allowed to post after that...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 3, 2005 7:34 am (#389 of 668)
Troels: "That's beginning to sound suspiciously like a mission statement, isn't it"

Hmm... indeed! LOL! But it is a very good idea actually and we have, with luck, 2 years for working on that synthesis, haven't we? It was really great to hear the different theories and points of view at Accio and I really found them very rewarding (though no-one will never convince me that Lupin is the hidden bad guy!). Let us work a bit more on the alchemical clues in the light on the HBP and I think we will be ready to start that promising synthesis!

I still have to tell you about Sunday BTW! It began for us with the book 7 panel that should have been moderated by Susan who had asked Troels and I to participate in it. As Susan unfortunately wasn't able to come, we had to decide just before it began what we would do. Finally, Pip (I don't remember her full name but she defended Snape at the trial) joined us and Ali, the chairman, moderated the panel. It was a bit improvised but I hope people didn't see it and found it was interesting. And it was really friendly, people "voting" if they believed Harry would survive, etc...

Afterwards, there were some other presentations, really interesting as well. I especially loved the ones about werewolves and animagi. There was also some muggle Quidditch organized in the morning but I'll let Marè, who played it, talk about it.

It finished with a Closing Lunch that is maybe my only regret of the whole event because it finished with Elizabeth Kay's presentation, certainly interesting but not really HP related, that took place at a time when people would have liked to talk to each other, exchange mails and say goodbye properly to the people met during the convention. As we all had to go just after the lunch, there are a lot of people that we didn't see in the end unfortunately.

Then Septentrion, Deetail Seeker, Marè, Cornelia and I took the train back to London where Phelim was so kindly waiting for us on the platform (thanks again Phelim!). And then, we all meet at the pub, with Gina, Good Evans etc... and we had a wonderful evening together!

EDIT: great photos Marè! **waving**

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 3, 2005 9:05 am (#390 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Thanks for the photos Marè ! I shall have part of mine on Friday, then I need to scan the best of them and to post a link to them. What a great time we had ! Now, I'm going to check Johno's gallery.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Madam Pince - Aug 3, 2005 9:43 am (#391 of 668)
The eyes are the windows to the soul...
Mare, what great pictures! It's so nice to see all of you in person! It looks like you all had a great time.

Is Detail Seeker really that tall, or is everyone else really that short???

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 3, 2005 10:06 am (#392 of 668)
Thanks for the pictures Mare. Thanks for all the updates from those of you who went to the event. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Catherine - Aug 3, 2005 11:58 am (#393 of 668)
Canon Seeker
I have so enjoyed reading about the experiences at Accio. Welcome back to everyone, and thanks so much for the details and pictures.

I'm even more jealous now that I was unable to attend!

- - - - - - - - - - -
mooncalf - Aug 3, 2005 12:19 pm (#394 of 668)
Thanks, everyone, for the updates and the pictures. I have been living vicariously through this thread, and it looks as though you all had a lot of fun! :-)

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 3, 2005 1:09 pm (#395 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Madam Pince, Detail Seeker is really that tall.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 3, 2005 1:12 pm (#396 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
loved the pictures, and your costumes at the feast were brilliant - well done all of you for putting in so much effort and flying the HP scarf (oh hang on, that was mine! well you know what I mean!!)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ydnam96 - Aug 3, 2005 1:28 pm (#397 of 668)
Why did Steve have the underpants on his head????

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Aug 3, 2005 2:18 pm (#398 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Thank you for the pictures. They show you really had a great fun at Accio. I wish I could have been there. And thank you for the reports. They gave us at least a bit of the feeling.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 3, 2005 2:33 pm (#399 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Mandy, there was a fund raising auction and Steve thought, that these pants needed advertising to increase the funds (They were at 20 or 50 Pounds at that time, but increased to 100 after that.) And a lot of Accioists went to sign the auction sheets after this. So, that was really charitable work, excellently done by Steve.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Aug 3, 2005 2:37 pm (#400 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Thanks for the pictures and updates everyone. Now I can picture you not looking like your avatars (unless of course, it's you in the avatar, in which case it makes no difference ).

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 3, 2005 2:51 pm (#401 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
I second or third or whatever - It was really great to see all of you, and it looked like so much fun... I truly hope I too will meet all of you one day Thank you for sharing - keep the updates, pictures and the information coming!! hugs, p

- - - - - - - - - - -
Chemyst - Aug 3, 2005 7:34 pm (#402 of 668)
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up." A.A. Milne
funny... but until Steve's picture, I'd always imagined Snape in boxers.

I echo Ponine, Thank you for sharing - keep the updates, pictures and the information coming!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Aug 3, 2005 7:37 pm (#403 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
I'd always imagined Snape in boxers.

Oh my goodness! Chemyst!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
haymoni - Aug 3, 2005 8:18 pm (#404 of 668)
I thought the same thing!

I guess it's the Archie-effect...air around...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Saralinda Again - Aug 3, 2005 9:00 pm (#405 of 668)
My Patronus is a Crumple-Horn Snorkack
Oh, dear, now I have ginger ale all over my keyboard, my monitor, my cat ...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Spursgirl79 - Aug 4, 2005 1:06 am (#406 of 668)
No no no.. I was discussing this with someone at the pub on Sunday night.. we most definitely picture Snape wearing greying Y-fronts!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 4, 2005 2:34 am (#407 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Re the nature of Snape's greying whatevers . . .

Remember age and nature of the boy -- they will be practical woolen (or homespun) things for someone who did not wear Muggle trousers under his robes and therefore risked a bit of a draught around his nether regions . . . ;-)

At summer probably no longer than the knees -- or possibly even as high as mid-thigh.

Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 4, 2005 4:46 am (#408 of 668)
Troels, I agree. Or is Snape like the chap at the Quiddich World Cup in the nightdress? Actually liking the breeze.

That was soooo off topic!

I am so pleased everyone is back safely, and that I now realise who Spursgirl79 is. Role on Butterbeer Festival 200?.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 4, 2005 9:11 am (#409 of 668)
I imagined Boxers also Chemyst. Sure glad Steve straightened that matter out for us. Saralinda hope you are able to get the ginger ale cleaned up. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 4, 2005 11:37 am (#410 of 668)
LOL about Snape's underpants! I will never be able to read Snape's Worst Memory again in the same way...

I'm very happy you liked the reports and the pictures (I think more will come soon), we did think a lot of you all!

*off trying not to imagine Snape knitting underpants...**

- - - - - - - - - - -
timrew - Aug 4, 2005 11:59 am (#411 of 668)
Middle-aged Harry Potter fan
I think the image of Snape points out the age of the imaginator (is there such a word?).........

Age 18-25: I'll leave that one to your imagination.

Age 26-40: Snape in boxers.

Age 41-65: Snape in greying underpants.

Age 66-75: Snape in a pair of long-johns.

Age 76 and over: Snape in a pair of long-johns with a door in the back.

- - - - - - - - - - -
haymoni - Aug 4, 2005 12:04 pm (#412 of 668)
Whoo Hoo - just made the Snape in Boxers cut-off!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 4, 2005 2:02 pm (#413 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I just read on the Accio Forum: Lysa:
You'll just have to show up in Copenhagen July 7-8-9th, then (The official, approved, steadfast date for the Patronus 2006), so we can settle the score.

This might smash our Scotland plans for 2006, thoughh not necessarily for the worst. Troels will just love that, I guess.

Well, let´s see, what will be done there.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Nathan Zimmermann - Aug 4, 2005 2:17 pm (#414 of 668)
Detail Seeker, would you happen to know if registration has opened for Patronus 2006?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 4, 2005 11:07 pm (#415 of 668)
Copenhagen should be great but it is very early in July! School will only end on July 7th after class for me next year, which means that the earliest plane I would be able take would be in the evening of the 7th.

Well, maybe we'll have more details soon about Patronus 2006 and then we'll see what is possible to do!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 5, 2005 12:49 am (#416 of 668)
The Accio website also has a countdown clock for Accio 2007! So when will we have the butterbeer festival. As Patronus 2006 is so early in July that may cause problems. I doubt I will be free for next year (in fact I'm sure I wont as I'm already booked to be away that week).

Edit - isn't Europe large enough for two Harry Potter gatherings? One academic like Accio and the other more, down to earth/normal/real life, not sure how to define it but I think you know what I mean.

2nd Edit - or we could just have a Forum get together called DIGS 2006

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 5, 2005 1:15 am (#417 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
LOL Phelim ! I'd like a DIGS 2006 ! I don't know if I'll be able to make any gathering next year, yet I begin to save some money just in case However, it will be either patronus 2006 or digs 2006 but both will be too much (note that I don't say "never"). Well, I can't say I haven't a soft spot for Scotland, especially if Steve finds Hogwarts as he intended to. I'd like to see that location, the café where Jo wrote her books etc

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 5, 2005 1:26 am (#418 of 668)
Personally I think all Harry Potter gatherings should be banned from outside of the UK . With allowances for Beauxbattons, Durmstrang and the Salem Witches Institute.

On a more serious note - I can't make the proposed dates for Patronus 2006. I would still love to meet up with others either in Europe or America. So lets think about a butterbeer or a digs to fill the gap. But who knows septentrion you may have won the European Lottery or learnt to apparate by then

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 5, 2005 2:16 am (#419 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I should begin to play the lottery then Because being able to apparate seems a bigger deal to me.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 5, 2005 2:19 am (#420 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Regarding Patronus 2006, I'll throw a mail to the organisers. I know they're having a meeting this evening, and I think it likely that they haven't considered this aspect, as Danish summer holidays are a bit early. It might be too late, though, but we can always hope.

Best,
Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Eunice - Aug 5, 2005 5:34 am (#421 of 668)
*Snapette & Lupinette forever*
Where can I find information about the future meetings? Do you have to book so early?

Marè, great photos! Thanks for sharing.

Snape underpants LOL! I too imagined boxers..

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 5, 2005 5:03 pm (#422 of 668)
Tim you make me wish I was in the 76 and older catagory! LOL

Phelim, DIGS 2006 sounds great! Hopefully in Scotland near a loch. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 5, 2005 10:51 pm (#423 of 668)
LOL about DIGS 2006 Phelim! I love that name.

Thanks for mailing Patronus Troels! Do you have more details about the conference or is it just "under construction" for the time being?

Anyway, Accio and meeting you all was so great that I'm really looking forward to meeting you all again next year! Scotland and Denmark sound both great and we fortunately have some time to organize that. Accio summer 2006!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 6, 2005 7:06 am (#424 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
"...we fortunately have some time to organize that. Accio summer 2006!"

I hope the "Accio" does not take that time to get organized away.

On another note: I will change the title of this thread to reflect its orientation to future meetings

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 6, 2005 8:01 am (#425 of 668)
LPO - the one near Hogwarts (hope Steve found it)?

Just had a text from Gina. She is home safely. Not long till she starts posting.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 6, 2005 9:10 am (#426 of 668)
Great news Phelim! It is good to know she came back safely!

I've just read on the Accio site that the updated papers are to be sent to them before August 31rst and that the CDs of the proceedings will be sent by October 31rst. I thought of posting that here because, at Accio, a member of the staff had told me we had till October for sending them the final paper and I was wondering if Carla and Troels knew about that new deadline.

Detail Seeker, it is great to see "future meetings" now in the title of this thread, I love when there are holidays plans in the air!

Audrey

PS: BTW, didn't someone here promise some treacle tart recipe sometime?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 6, 2005 9:31 am (#427 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
and banoffee pie recipe...

Audrey, do you mean they won't send the papers on paper but on CD ? Or both ? I hope we'll have the panels and Snape's trial on video.

Those ever-moving deadlines are annoying, don't you think so ?

Waves to Gina : hope you won't fall asleep on your job Monday.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Nathan Zimmermann - Aug 6, 2005 9:55 am (#428 of 668)
Hopefuly. peeople who were unable to come Accio 2005 are permitted to come to the events occurring in Scotland and Denmark in 2006?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 6, 2005 11:08 am (#429 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Of course Nathan !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 6, 2005 3:04 pm (#430 of 668)
Phelim, I have faith in Steve. After all he found Snape's graying underpants. Locating Hogwarts should be no problem.

Detail Seeker I like the name change! LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 6, 2005 4:41 pm (#431 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
:waves to Septentrion:

I am endeavoring to stay awake as long as possible today so as to reset my internal clock. But it's not easy!

I see Troels has been posting here. I did not get to have much interaction beyond a butterbeer induced disagreement regarding the trial. I have a feeling we shall be disagreeing again soon. So I look forward to the threads. I am worried, however, about the amount of catching up I need to do. All my friends are insisting I submit something for the next Accio (whatever it may be called) on Snape. Perhaps my psychiatric evaluation? Something on the lines of arguing his teaching skills toward Harry and Neville as preparation under pressure? I have much to consider.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 6, 2005 7:23 pm (#432 of 668)
Welcome back Gina. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 7, 2005 12:33 am (#433 of 668)
Good to see you came back home safely Gina! **waving like mad**

Septentrion, yes, the proceedings will be on CDs. This was on the Accio site:

"Authors are requested to submit full papers to (mail address) by 31 August 2005 for publication in the proceedings. These will be distributed on CD-ROM by post to all members by 31 October 2005."

So, I don't think they will be on paper as well.

"Those ever-moving deadlines are annoying, don't you think so?" " LOL, yes, a bit... But that's okay, I've already worked on the paper again and it should be ready to be sent next week (or I hope so)!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 7, 2005 1:17 am (#434 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Next accio is in two years, so Gina, you have plenty of time to prepare a paper ! Oh my, I've come back for less than a week and I already make plans for another meeting with you guys. must be ready for St Mungo's

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 7, 2005 3:55 am (#435 of 668)
Banofee Pie and Treacle Tart recepies being sorted. Taking into consideration different measurements between US/UK and Europe of course.

Nathan, the gathering are open to all Potterites, ande even to Rita Skeeter type journalists.

Gina. Did you like the stairs at Hamley's? Also I have a question for Severus. How cold is it actually at Azkaban?

Edit - I forgot one important piece of information about the London get together last weekend. Immo (Detail Seeker) brought two books which made I wonder if we had a death eater in our midst. A book on US Army interigation techniques, and one on black magic. We have been warned. Has the dark mark gone to Germany? Is Immo a descendant of Grindewald? Watch this space

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 7, 2005 5:33 am (#436 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Phelim, yes the stairs at Hamley's were delightful. Thanks for letting me know!

As for Azkaban, you of course should know that Snape wouldn't know how cold it is there. He wasn't nearly as foolish or careless enough as Sirius Black to wind up there. :evil grin:

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 7, 2005 6:57 am (#437 of 668)
Gina - He didn't even go as a visitor? Unwilling to risk it? We'll find out the truth in the next book.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 7, 2005 10:21 am (#438 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Phelim wrote:
Edit - I forgot one important piece of information about the London get together last weekend. Immo (Detail Seeker) brought two books which made I wonder if we had a death eater in our midst. A book on US Army interigation techniques, and one on black magic. We have been warned. Has the dark mark gone to Germany? Is Immo a descendant of Grindewald? Watch this space

To keep this discussion going, I will not answer this question, of course. :evil grin: The Black Magic book has some interesting chapters. Especially about the "Hand of Glory": Uses and how to create it. Perhaps I will share that knowledge in a separate thread soon.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Herm oh ninny - Aug 7, 2005 11:36 am (#439 of 668)
"Accio treats!"
I just wanted to say thanks to all the people who went to Accio for all the interesting info they have posted. It looks like you guys had lots of fun (you lucky dogs )

I must say that I was delighted that Severus was acquitted and I shall send him a congratulatory treacle tart....as soon as the recipe is posted!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Aug 8, 2005 1:25 pm (#440 of 668)
Really tired, we drove all the night and half the day from Cannes. I will tell you something about quidditch after having some sleep! but for now from the reading post:
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
the cover.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
and the article, click the enlarge button to read, it's great! See the picture of Gina and Madelyn, and I'm somewhere far away in the background of another picture too.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 8, 2005 4:12 pm (#441 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
thanks Marè for the link !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 8, 2005 7:14 pm (#442 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Oooh, thanks! I've forwarded the link to Madelyn.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 9, 2005 4:40 am (#443 of 668)
I have been looking up recipes. Do you have something called Golden Syrup in the States or the Continent? Golden Syrup is a sugar syrup type thing. Not the same as but similar to Maple Syrup.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 9, 2005 12:11 pm (#444 of 668)
I don't think we have Golden Syrup here Phelim, but we do have cane sugar syrup. It is mostly used in cocktails but sometimes also in cakes, maybe it would fit the recipe? I'll with it anyway!

Thanks for the link Marè! At last a journalist that talks about the fun we had there! BTW, welcome back from Cannes, I hope you had a wonderful time there.

Detail Seeker: "The Black Magic book has some interesting chapters. Especially about the "Hand of Glory": Uses and how to create it. Perhaps I will share that knowledge in a separate thread soon." It should be great indeed! BTW, have you found anything in that book that could refer to horcruxes?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 9, 2005 12:15 pm (#445 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
I think Caro syrup might suffice.

ETA: Never mind. I just did a quickie search and found this suggestion for replacement.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Madam Pince - Aug 9, 2005 12:24 pm (#446 of 668)
The eyes are the windows to the soul...
Phelim, there is a corn syrup in the U.S. called King Syrup, and underneath that name on the label it says "Golden." (Never noticed that before today, by the way!) It's not really very golden in color -- it's a dark brownish-golden perhaps. My husband eats it on pancakes, etc., but I think it is disgusting. It tastes "molasses-y" to me, (like Karo Syrup which I think is probably more common in the U.S., and they are both basically corn syrup.) I use Karo Syrup for things like baking pecan pies, etc., so I'd bet either Karo or King Syrup would be good "exchanges" for your recipe. I've always thought of pecan pies when I think of treacle tarts, though I have no basis for that at all.

Ever notice how odd the word "syrup" looks after you've typed it a dozen times????

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 9, 2005 3:10 pm (#447 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Audrey (Elanor), I have not found anything about things similar to hocruxes as yet in this book. But I feel, it does not really live up to its title, the author was very peciliar about what not to cite from the ancient or not so ancient sources, he paraphrases, cites or ridicules.

So, Phelm, you need not be suspicious.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 10, 2005 1:02 am (#448 of 668)
Gina - the link you gave is superb. Lyles Golden Syrup is what we use over here in our recepies. But as people seem to have alternatives I will sort the recepie out fr with.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 10, 2005 6:37 am (#449 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks, Phelim. I thought it was what you were looking for. Can't wait for the recipe. Pity i can't apparate over for tea to eat some by you.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 10, 2005 1:12 pm (#450 of 668)
Gina - the recepie will be the one I use, but I'm not much of a pudding chef. Soups on the otherhand are a bit of a speciality. But I will do a bake in of treacle tarts for DIGS/Butterbeer Festival 2006. Either that or I will bring some over

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Herm oh ninny - Aug 10, 2005 1:25 pm (#451 of 668)
"Accio treats!"
O.K. My curiosity has won out! What does a treacle tart taste like? I have wondered about this since the very first time I read about them in SS. What exactly is a treacle? Is it a type of fruit? I hope this question isn't too stupid

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 10, 2005 1:47 pm (#452 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Your question isn't stupid? Actually, some of us were more than excited to at least know. Actually, treacle tart tastes as a pie with a very big brown sugar-based layer on top of it. And it's good !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ludicrous Patents Office - Aug 10, 2005 8:41 pm (#453 of 668)
I'm glad it does not taste like chicken! Herm oh ninny I'm glad you asked. I was wondering also. LPO

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 12, 2005 1:03 am (#454 of 668)
ell everyone- here it is. A treacle tart recipe

50g (2oz) fresh white breadcrumbs 140g (5oz) rich short crust pastry 6 tbsp Golden Syrup 1 lemon (zest only) 1 tsp lemon juice

Preheat oven to 200°C; 400°F: Gas 6. Put the syrup into a saucepan with the breadcrumbs, lemon rind and juice and heat gently until just melted. Allow the mixture to cool. Roll out the dough and line an 8 inch baking dish. Pour in the syrup mixture. Roll out the dough trimmings and cut into long, narrow strips. Arrange them in a lattice pattern over the filling. Bake for 25 to 30 min or until the pastry is slightly browned. Serve hot or cold. Serves 4

For instructions and a recipie for shortcrust pastry follow this link: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Will post a banofee pie recipe when I find it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 12, 2005 1:10 am (#455 of 668)
And here is a banoffee pie recipe:SERVES 6-8 COOKING TIME 3 HOURS 30 MINUTES FOR PASTRY CASE OVEN TEMPERATURE: GAS Mark 5 or (375 f / 190 c)

Ingredients 6 oz Shortcrust Pastry (uncooked) 1 Large Tin Condensed Milk 1 Teaspoon Coffee Powder (optional) 1 oz Caster Sugar ½ Pint Double Cream (half a pint) 1 Large Bananas

Preparation (Can be done the day before if needed). Immerse the unopened can of condensed milk in boiling water. Cover and boil for 3 hours. Remove from water and allow to cool before opening. Line an 8 inch flan dish with a thin layer of shortcrust pastry. Bake blind for 20 minutes, then remove the greaseproof paper and return to the oven and bake for a further 5 minutes until pastry is crisp. Store in an airtight container until needed.

Method Whip the cream with the coffee and sugar until thick. Empty the condensed milk into the flan case and spread. Decorate with the cream mixture and sliced banana

To convert inches into centimetres (for the Europeans) multiply by 2.5. So 8 inches becomes 20 centimetres.

Enjoy baking!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 12, 2005 5:07 am (#456 of 668)
Thank you so much Phelim!

I'll try the treacle tart as soon as I'll come back from holidays. My birthday is getting closer (at the beginning of September) and I would love to have a treacle-tart-birthday-cake this year, but I'll certainly need some practice before serving it to my friends!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 13, 2005 3:07 am (#457 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
can I just add a word of warning for any non patient forummers. YOU MUST LET THE CONDENSED MILK COOL!!!!! if you open the can when still hot it will explode!!! HOT sticky goo will burn!

thanks for the recipe Phelim, i lost my banoffee pie recipe some years ago and all the others I find dont let you boil in the tin - probably health adn safety gone mad(and I couldn't remember how long it needed to boil for!)

Treacle tart by the way is best served with lovely thick (but pourable) custard, but I suppose you can have cream if you must!!!

mmmnnnmmm - off to potter in the kitchen...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 13, 2005 4:21 am (#458 of 668)
Thanks for the safety note Good Evans. I forgot to put one on.

Oh yes, and to change the consistency of the filling of the treacle tart (that is if you want to make it softer/more runny) just add less breadcrumbs.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 13, 2005 5:32 am (#459 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
You are welcome Phelim, did it sound like the voice of experience!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 13, 2005 6:44 am (#460 of 668)
Yes, and I've had a similar explosive time in the kitchen so should have known better than to leave a warning off. Oooops.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Chemyst - Aug 13, 2005 9:48 am (#461 of 668)
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up." A.A. Milne
Thanks for adding the safety tip explanation Good Evans. Over fifteen years ago, when we lived in another state, I'd had a friend who had her condensed milk can explode when she was making a caramel dessert, and ever since I first read Phelim's recipe, I'd been trying to remember what she'd done wrong.

Three hours of boiling is too long for an already hot & humid kitchen. Maybe during the winter when the air is cold & dry...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lexicon Steve - Aug 13, 2005 8:13 pm (#462 of 668)
A big hello to my favorite table at the feast: the Lexicon Forum gang!

Yes, he is that tall.

The Guardian news story was horrible. She has me quoted as saying things I didn't even say, and ignored the page after page of good quotes I did give her. She is a -- well, I can say witch on this forum, can't I? I have other words for her too, words that would get me placed on moderated status by Kip pretty darned fast. She apparently came to Accio with an assumption of what she'd find, and when she didn't find it, she invented it.

Yes, I found Hogwarts. Seriously cool. Pictures and descriptions to come. My wife and I couldn't believe how Hogwarts-ish this place is.

It's nice to read your comments on Accio. I'm so glad you all seemed to have such a good time. I know I sure did.

Steve The Lexicon

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 14, 2005 1:02 am (#463 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Hello Steve ! Are you back home now ?

I (and other forumers I'm sure) had a hard time not to use words with high kippendo-potential for the journalist of the Guardian too. Your presentation was just good, funny and very respectuous for our favorite author.

You found Hogwarts, that are exciting news. Sure, a DIGS 2006 (translation : a get-together in Scotland in 2006) sounds more and more enticing.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Ponine - Aug 14, 2005 3:59 am (#464 of 668)
I reject your reality and substitute my own!
Could we have DIGS at Hogwarts?!?!?!? (I want to, I want to, I want to!!)

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 14, 2005 4:41 am (#465 of 668)
Ponine - may be. Watch this space.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 14, 2005 6:58 am (#466 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Well, Steve, I suppose that you can get away with 'Rita Skeeter-ish',and that really ought to say it all about Ms Gold (except, perhaps, that a worm Animagus form would be more appopriate in this case).
Cheers,
Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Snuffles - Aug 15, 2005 1:29 am (#467 of 668)
Olivia
Unfortunately it seems to be a trend in the UK, that most journalists will print either what they want to hear or what they think you should have said, rather than what you did!! You only have to open up the newspapers here to read articles about people, only to read an apology a few days later by same paper, saying they had the quote wrong or that they were mis-informed!

Most reporters seem to have Skeeter degree in journalism!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 15, 2005 4:48 am (#468 of 668)
Thought for DIGS 2006. How about a treacle tart bake off. Who makes the best treacle tart?

On a more serous note here is the link for Patronus 2006 in Denmark: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 15, 2005 1:31 pm (#469 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
If Patronus2006 is worth sacrificing DIGS2006 for it, why not do the treacle tart bake off there ?

"I should start trying, I should start trying...."

The "Skeeterism" is not limited to Great Britain - I see it in our newspapers in the same manner. I think, journalists have been taught, that they are the fourth power too long - they start believing it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Chemyst - Aug 16, 2005 4:22 am (#470 of 668)
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up." A.A. Milne
journalists have been taught that they are the fourth power too long...
I think when that gets put into English, at least American English, it is estate rather than power. 'Estate' in this sense means 'a major political or social group or class'. The First Estate comprised the entire clergy, those who lived on tithes. The Second Estate was the nobility, those who lived on taxes. The Third Estate comprised all those who were not members of the clergy or the aristocracy but who paid tithes & taxes. The Fourth Estate to "wield power" was Journalist, so when you called journalists the fourth power, your meaning still got through. Within the past century, there has been the emergence of the Fifth Estate, usually meaning "non-print media" but is sometimes used for an anarchist newspaper. (Knowing this is most helpful when attempting crossword puzzles.)

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 16, 2005 10:23 am (#471 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I think Detail Seeker was thinking more of executive power, judicial power and legislative power, according to the description from Montesquieu. The medias are often talked of like the fourth power.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Chemyst - Aug 16, 2005 11:11 am (#472 of 668)
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up." A.A. Milne
Edited Aug 16, 2005 11:44 am
That's interesting, Septentrion. I googled around adding the "Montesquieu" name to a "fourth estate" search and found a mixed history. The following is a copy & paste from several search results:

The term "checks and balances" was coined by Montesquieu during the Enlightenment. The notion of the press as the fourth branch of government is sometimes used to compare the press (or media) with Montesquieu's three branches of government, namely an addition to 1. the legislative, 2. the executive and 3. the judiciary branches.
Edmund Burke is quoted to have said: "Three Estates in Parliament; but in the Reporters' Gallery yonder, there sat a Fourth estate more important far than they all."

In democratic states, some amount of checking is frequently done by an independent press. Although the press is not a branch of power in the constitutional sense, it is sometimes referred to as the "fourth branch of power" or "fourth estate" because of its influence on political processes. However, the term 'fourth estate' has nothing to do with the three-branch system of government, and refers to the press being an extra 'estate' in addition to the three estates which participated in the Assemblies in seventeenth-century France: the first estate (the clergy ), the second estate (the aristocracy) and the third estate (the serfs).

The press has also been described as a "fourth power" because of its considerable influence over public opinion (which it wields by widely distributing facts and opinions about the various branches of government). The press is also sometimes referred to as the Fourth Estate, a term of historical French origin, which is not related to the modern three-branch system of government.

Of course, I had to rely on journalists for that information!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 17, 2005 3:32 am (#473 of 668)
As soon as the link is working properly I will be booking myself in for Patronus, and putting a bid in to present some papers.

But I am still on for DIGS 2005!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 17, 2005 12:56 pm (#474 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Or making it DIGS 2005/06 between the years ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Aug 21, 2005 6:05 am (#475 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
I posted an idea about Gardaland and Forum gathering there and mum told me better to post it here. Would you do me a favor and take a look about that idea there and post your opinion here. Thanks!

P.S.: That post is around 500 posts ago.

Kate

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 21, 2005 1:16 pm (#476 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Katharina, that post of yours was on the chat thread, wasn´it ?

A meeting further down south has its merits. Finding a good time slot for it will be crucial. Patronus 2006 and Accio 2007 are reserved for already. The DIGS200X meeting in Scotland to visit Hogwarts and to have a treacle tart and banoffee pie competition is quite something for winter or spring. So, if a Gardaland meeting is to come, autumn 2006 might be an idea, that does not conflict with the other events.

I know, you would love it to be earlier. So, let´s see, what the ongoing discusion will bing about.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 22, 2005 9:55 am (#477 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
has anyone tried Phelims recipes yet? I know I haven't had time.. but any reports back?

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Aug 22, 2005 10:04 am (#478 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
Yes, Detail Seeker, it's on chat thread. I'm Katarina, not Katharina.

Ponine asked me to wait with Gardaland until 2008. when she will be back from USA. So, that is not emergency.

Kate

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 22, 2005 12:19 pm (#479 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I won't try any recipe, don't want to ruin my kitchen (not because of the recipes, because of my clumsiness in a kitchen).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Aug 22, 2005 2:06 pm (#480 of 668)
I will definitely try the treacle tart as soon as I will find some time but, unfortunately, it may have to wait for a bit more since school starts again this week and I have a lot of work to do. I'll tell you when I will have tried it! I don't fear for my kitchen anyway, it has certainly already known worse.

Detail Seeker: "The DIGS200X meeting in Scotland to visit Hogwarts and to have a treacle tart and banoffee pie competition is quite something for winter or spring"
Have you thought of some possible dates already? I would love to come to DIGS in Scotland but it will only be possible if it is during school holidays. I think Scotland can be very cold in winter, maybe spring would fit better if we want to search for Hogwarts. What do you think everybody?

Steve, it is so great to know you have found it, I can't wait to see the pictures! About the Guardian, Septentrion is right, I too "had a hard time not to use words with high kippendo-potential for the journalist of the Guardian "! Accio was such a fantastic experience. But I guess genuinely happy people don't make a good story... Sad, isn't it?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 22, 2005 11:47 pm (#481 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I whole-heartedly agree with the need to avoid winter in northern countries. So next spring or summer sound the best times for DIGS.

But I guess genuinely happy people don't make a good story... Sad, isn't it?

except for said genuinely happy people and those who love them.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 23, 2005 12:04 am (#482 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Septentrion, you don't mean that you want ‘to avoid winter in northern countries.’ — really, people hurrying through the slush in a gathering darkness at 3 PM is charming you really ought to try it one day (if you try it in Denmark, I'll promise to warm you up with your choice of coffee, hot chocolate or Firewhisky, although I don't have my bottle of Ogden's ).

Incidentally — do give a call if anyone gets near Copenhagen, I'd take it as an honour to show you a couple of English cannonballs lodged in Danish walls ... and the Irish pub

Best,
Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Aug 23, 2005 3:52 am (#483 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Troels, it's just I don't like it when the weather is too cold, that is below 0°C. And having night at 3.00 pm is just distressing IMHO. But hot chocolate is tempting though...

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Aug 23, 2005 6:50 am (#484 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
Well, I don't think Scotland in winter is *that* bad. When I visited the Isle of Arran in Febuary one year it was only a windchill of minus 7°C. It's probably better to visit in the spring or summer though because if Hogwarts is in the Highlands it'll probably be quite snowy. We don't want to get stranded do we?

When did we in England ever attack Copenhagen? Obviously in some time of history I've never studied! Plus, what is it about everywhere having Irish pubs? When I visited Alsace (France), I came across 'The Loch Ness Pub' which was owned by an Irish Whiskey company or something. Long way from Loch Ness, methinks!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 23, 2005 12:19 pm (#485 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Loch Ness is in Scotland, so perhaps was it a Scottish Whisky company?

septentrion, I'm with you on the whole winter thing. Don't come to NYC in winter if you don't want to reckon with slush and icy wind!

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Aug 23, 2005 12:32 pm (#486 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
No, it was definately an Irish company. That's why I found it all so funny because it was a Scottish pub name in France with an Irish owner!

Summer isn't all that warm in Scotland either. It's much less rainy on the East coast than the West in my experience (obviously because depressions move in from a westish direction). Have we been told where Hogwarts is yet? That would help with vague weather forcasting, although rain is obviously to be expected.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 23, 2005 12:37 pm (#487 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
When I was in Scotland in July we hit a high of 11 or 12C. I think they had a "heat wave" of about 18C two weeks prior.

- - - - - - - - - - -
timrew - Aug 23, 2005 1:04 pm (#488 of 668)
Middle-aged Harry Potter fan
Troels:- really, people hurrying through the slush in a gathering darkness at 3 PM is charming.......

In Manchester we do that in August!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 23, 2005 1:22 pm (#489 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Yes, Tim. But in Manchester it's rain.

I think they should convert Manchester to water power, in fact.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Snuffles - Aug 23, 2005 1:22 pm (#490 of 668)
Olivia
Yup, you just can't beat the good old British Weather!! We don't get a suntan here, it's all just rust!!!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Aug 23, 2005 3:13 pm (#491 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
azi, may I fill the gap in history: During the Napoleonic wars, Denmark was unoccupied by Napoleon and neutral, more pro British actually- until the British Fleet came along and sunk the Danish Fleet concentrated in Copenhagen and fired a few shots at the town preemptively - just in case, that Denmark might arrange itself with Napoleon. "To copenhagen something" was a verb invented afterwards.

As to the location of Hogwarts: No definite information is known to mankind - except for Steve, his family and perhaps a few chosen other ones. So, any planning is still rather vague, of course.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 23, 2005 3:30 pm (#492 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Yes, I'm afraid Hogwarts is not a viable location for a potential meeting. You can only imagine the muggle and wizarding security after Dumbledore's death.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Amilia Smith - Aug 23, 2005 7:35 pm (#493 of 668)
You could all come visit ME in the winter!!! And there are indeed Irish Pubs here in Honolulu.

Mills.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Aug 24, 2005 12:45 am (#494 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
I'm afraid that would be too warm for me, Amilia. Anything above 25° Celsius (77°F) has me smelting (Accio was pretty hot, IMO) but thanks anyway …

Oh, and thanks to Detail Seeker for pointing out the English atrocity now that the oak trees that were planted right after the theft have grown large enough for us to rebuild the lost ships, we have set up a committee to look at the possibility of actually forgiving the English but there is a pressure for them not to finish before the committee looking into forgiving the Swedes for the theft of Danish lands in 1657 (after they took what is now the southern part of Sweden, speaking Danish became a capital offence — any Swedish military person was supposed to shoot down anyone speaking Danish on the spot ).

Regards,
Troels

P.S. Disclaimer: In case I didn't make it obvious enough, the above accusations against non-Danish populations are intended entirely for humorous purposes — I actually have a great liking for both British and Swedish people!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Aug 24, 2005 3:03 am (#495 of 668)
Yes Gina, and with your connections to Severeus would you be allowed anywhere near?

Imo - Steve has said he will do a page. Or we could just bully him to give us the location.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Aug 24, 2005 9:21 am (#496 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Phelim, I am free to roam so long as I am unaccompanied. But point well taken.

I say we try to set something up in Glasgow. I met a Snape costumer at Accio who lives in Glasgow who I neeeeed to see again.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Good Evans - Aug 30, 2005 1:38 pm (#497 of 668)
Practically perfect in every way
he he, I am off to Scotland on Friday for a week... I will report back on any upgraded security arrangements, but we are mostly in Crieff - "Good Crieff Good Evans" I hear you cry!!! so I am not sure how close to Hogwarts we may be, still I shall keep my non muggle eyes peeled!

I am in Scotland a couple of times a year so a gathering north of the boarder works for me. I usually get feb sept and december if I am really lucky December and Feb tend to be a bit brisk!

- - - - - - - - - - -
rallysogs - Sep 1, 2005 12:04 am (#498 of 668)
Hi everyone its Sally, at last I got here. I took me a while to figure out that I needed to send an email to the moderators to be able to post(thanks Audrey!) Anyway I am definitely up for another meet. Im going to try to get to Copenhagen, Edinburgh would be great also. I hope you are all well!

Sally

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Sep 1, 2005 8:41 am (#499 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Hey, Sally! :waves furiously:

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Sep 1, 2005 8:57 am (#500 of 668)
Sally!!!!! I'm so happy you found your way to the forum! Welcome! It would be great if you could all meet again indeed. **waving furiously too**

Good Evans, have a nice stay in Scotland!

Audrey

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Sep 1, 2005 11:41 am (#501 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
Welcome Sally!!!!!!!!!!!! Could you say something more about yourself on Tell About Yourself(new)

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Sep 1, 2005 10:12 pm (#502 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Hi Sally ! Nice to see you here ! ***joining the furious waving***

I hope too to meet you again.

Good Evans, I just hope you'll find Hogwarts.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Sep 2, 2005 6:51 am (#503 of 668)
:waves to Sally... and to the rest:

I haven't been around much, but I can tell you I won't be winning the Treacle tart competition we will be having in Scotland. My first attempt is not exactly a succes. I know that making a pie without scales isn't the easiest thing (how much is 60 grams of bread crums if you can't weigh it?), but the receipe isn't helping either: Why is there no sugar in the dough (dow? floury thing that makes up the bottom?) it tastes a bit like crackers this way!
That and it looks like a failed pizza... too bad I can't take a picture...

And for Sally: Here is a link to a post with more links to some pictures of accio. I still have to add some that I found on the web and to scan some that I made.

Have fun in Scotland Good Evans!

-Steffie-

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Sep 2, 2005 9:00 am (#504 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Waves to Marè !

At least, you did try the recipe..Perhaps we should turn the competition in "who will buy the best treacle tart ?"

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Sep 2, 2005 10:48 am (#505 of 668)
Oh... good plan!!!

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Sep 2, 2005 10:55 am (#506 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
Thankyou for the information on the English attacking Copenhagen! It was most enlightening...I have never come across that period of history in school. It's like the British Empire - never mentioned. I admit I'm not particuarly bothered about it, I'm a medieval historian!

Buying the best treacle tart competition? Good idea! I've noticed an increase in treacle tart stocks in the supermarket in the past year or so. Perhaps Harry Potter helped boost sales?

I need to try that recipe still. I *will* get round to it...even if I cheat and buy the base...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Sep 3, 2005 3:22 am (#507 of 668)
Mare - we never use sugar in a short-crust pastry. There is a danger that it will burn. To get a lighter texture replace a quarter of the flour with semolina. Oh yes and use a plain white flour, not wholemeal. This may stop the pastry tasting like cracker.

Oh well, may be at atronus I should do a seminar on baking treacle tarts.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Oct 10, 2005 8:52 am (#508 of 668)
Hello everybody! I've just heard that my application for an advanced training course for teachers who teach English in elementary school has been accepted! So, I'm going to spend 2 weeks next March in Cambridge.

I'm really happy! I can't wait to discover the town and Newton's university. I do hope that, during the weekend between those 2 weeks, we will have some free time so that I may be able to take a train and meet some of you all again, in London or anywhere else. It would be really great!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Oct 10, 2005 11:54 am (#509 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Congratulations, Elanor!

Best wishes,
Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Oct 10, 2005 2:44 pm (#510 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I can just follow in Troels´footsteps and congratulate, Audrey ! I hope you can enjoy at least some time outside lecture rooms.

Immo

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Oct 12, 2005 11:34 am (#511 of 668)
Thank you so much Troels and Immo! Trust me to make the most of it!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Oct 12, 2005 6:43 pm (#512 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Congratulations, Elanor!!!

If you're unlucky, Phelim will invite you London and subject you to one of his tarts treat you to one of his treacle tarts!

- - - - - - - - - - -
rallysogs - Oct 15, 2005 3:39 am (#513 of 668)
It would be great to spend a day with you on London Audrey, be sure to let me know when your coming. Well done for getting on the course!

Cambridge is lovely too, make sure you go 'punting on the cam' when you are there, its fantastic!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Oct 15, 2005 4:35 am (#514 of 668)
Gina - my cooking isn't that bad. It's just the ammount of washing up I make.

Elanor - shame it isn't Oxford. Now that is Newton's university, as he studied there and was chancellor.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Oct 18, 2005 12:52 pm (#515 of 668)
Thanks everybody!

I'll be so happy to meet you all again if I can come to London (I'll know more details about my stay there in November) and I do keep my fingers crossed!

BTW, count on me to deepen my knowledge about treacle tart when I'll be there!

Phelim, I know about Newton (an alchemist BTW! ) and I can't wait to discover his university.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Oct 19, 2005 9:46 am (#516 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Elanor wrote on Oct 18, 2005 in message #515

Phelim, I know about Newton (an alchemist BTW! ) and I can't wait to discover his university.
As were many of the great ‘natural philosophers’ of that day. Newton built his motion laws, to a large extent, on Kepler's laws for planetary motion, which were themselves based on the observations made by Tycho Brahe — Kepler was the court-astrologer and Brahe's primary interests were Alchemy and Astrology ...

The conflict we see today between the (natural) sciences, the arcane (primarily alchemy and astrology) and religion is mainly a modern thing. The study of the natural sciences and the arcane were only beginning to happen when the International Statute of Secrecy was passed in 1692, and the divorce between the sciences and religion is a matter of the late nineteenth century!

Hans Christian Ørsted, who discovered electromagnetism in 1820, was excited because this proved that things were connected — he saw the connection between electricity and magnetism as a proof of the existence of God!

One of the points I often make about the Potter books is that the magic that is presented is not in violation of natural laws as we know them, but rather augments these laws. Magic is a new source of energy, a new force, that obeys laws we don't know (and possibly that we cannot understand), but it isn't in conflict with physics as such (I seem to recall that there are one or two exceptions, but I tend to think of these as accidental).

All of this is related, in my mind. The three areas are now divorced and are all probably best off by that divorce, but we should also realise that science cannot be used to say anything intelligent about the divine, and vice versa! The study of the arcane is, IMO, different, at least as it is conducted today — mainly because it tries to make statements about the physical world, which can be easily refuted scientifically.

Regards,
Troels

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Oct 19, 2005 5:12 pm (#517 of 668)
Hmmm, I had something intelligent and such to say about all of the above, but I can't really remember what....
Other than that: Abbyfetti all around for Elanor going to London again! ""..:::"";;;;""" (I don't do Abbyfetti that well...)

Steffie - currently battling her keyboard... :sigh:

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Oct 20, 2005 8:04 am (#518 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Mare, I think your Abbyfetti looks fine!

Troels, there are some who can attribute certain natural science principles to astrology, and some buddhists examine both astrology and natural science when considering buddhist views of cosmology. More detail, however, I shall leave off for this goes beyond the scope of the Lex. But JKR does provide us with an interesting set of possibilities with regards to natural science. I think it's fair to say that the Advanced Potions Making text, independently revised by my beloved and princely Snape the half blood prince is an example of someone in the Potterverse applying principles of scientific experimentation to further the art and science of potions making! One must wonder what other experiments are taking place...beyond Snape and the Dept. of Mysteries.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Nov 5, 2005 12:06 am (#519 of 668)
Marè, your "abbyfetties" are wonderful! Thanks!

Great posts, Troels and Gina! Some weeks ago, we discussed this subject a bit on the alchemy thread, you may find it interesting: it starts with Finn's post : here and my answer is in post #719, just underneath.

I was checking the Accio site lately because I remembered they said the proceedings were to be sent to us by October 30 when I saw that on the site:

"These [the proceedings] will be distributed on CD-ROM by post to all members by 15 December 2005."

I understand that they needed a break after the conference, and it must have been a huge work to collect all the updated papers, but what a pity! Let's hope it foreshadows something great, like some files about Snape's trial on the CD!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Nov 5, 2005 7:54 am (#520 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
LOL, I don't even know what an abbyfetti is. Elanor, how do you keep track of where each post is on the Alchemy thread? It's so funny that mine is one of them!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Troels Forchhammer - Nov 6, 2005 3:17 am (#521 of 668)
It is useless to meet revenge with revenge: it will heal nothing. - Frodo Baggins, /The Return of the King/ (J.R.R. Tolkien)
Elanor, I'm sure you're referring to ‘A Highly Biased and Selective [Trial] of [Snape], Which Glosses Over the Nastier Aspects of the [Man].’

/Troels

Taking fun
as simply fun
and earnestness
in earnest
shows how thouroughly
thou none
of the two
discernest.
- Piet Hein, The Eternal Twins

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Nov 6, 2005 12:41 pm (#522 of 668)
LOL Troels!

"‘A Highly Biased and Selective [Trial] of [Snape], Which Glosses Over the Nastier Aspects of the [Man].’ "
As Obi-wan Kenobi would say: "This is true, from a certain point of view"...

Finn: "Elanor, how do you keep track of where each post is on the Alchemy thread?"
Easy! Last spring, I started a special HP notebook in which I started to classify the posts of the alchemy threads by theme to help me writing the Accio paper. Recently, I've continued this classification and just finished it (till last week's posts). Last time I checked there were something like 400 "themes/symbols" listed in that document. (and no, I didn't exploit a poor house-elf for doing it! )

As for abbyfetti, they are some sort of "virtual confettis" that are (I think) the specialty of a Forumer called Abby.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Nov 6, 2005 1:33 pm (#523 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
As for abbyfetti, they are some sort of "virtual confettis" that are (I think) the specialty of a Forumer called Abby.

Who has gone lost, somehow. I hope she is at least lurking around here. There have been many abbyfetti-worthy situations around here.

Get well soon, Audrey !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Nov 6, 2005 1:53 pm (#524 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Whoa! Very cool!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Nov 6, 2005 2:45 pm (#525 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Now, now Trolls. Don't be a sore loser.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Nov 7, 2005 3:31 am (#526 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I've seen Elanor's notes and I must insist on the fact her work is "impressive, most impressive".

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Nov 9, 2005 2:31 pm (#527 of 668)
Thank you so much Septentrion! **blushing**

PS: I love your new avatar Gina!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Nov 9, 2005 6:51 pm (#528 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks Elanor.

And thanks for the photos!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Nov 10, 2005 12:22 am (#529 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
so you got them. And I concur with Elanor about your stuning (stunning ?) new avatar Gina.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Nov 10, 2005 7:39 am (#530 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
I'm not sure if you can see it, since this picture is reduced, but he has an ink stain on his nose!

Say, does anyone who went to Accio have other pictures of the two Snapes? Particularly Ajna, the one from Glasgow who was less outgoing? She hasn't any good pictures of herself from the conference.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Nov 10, 2005 9:07 am (#531 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
No we can't see the ink stain. A pity actually !

Gina, did you try this link ? I'm sure that guy had anyone with an interesting outfit there.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Nov 10, 2005 9:42 am (#532 of 668)
I only have these two and I think they are not even mine, but originate with Elanor and Septentrion (thankies for the last batch, by the way)

And as I told you, I see the stain, but it still looks like a wart to me

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Nov 10, 2005 9:46 am (#533 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thanks, guys. I'll be sure to check out that link later.

And here is the full picture, by the way! IIIINK Stain. NOT a wart!!!! Grrrrrr.

- - - - - - - - - - -
azi - Nov 10, 2005 2:38 pm (#534 of 668)
Photo borrowed from Ardent Photography
It always looked like an ink stain to me, Gina. I thought it was a nice touch!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Gina R Snape - Nov 13, 2005 11:31 am (#535 of 668)
"The world isn't split into good people and death eaters"
Thank you, Azi. ac1d6urn is a talented artist.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 12, 2006 2:22 am (#536 of 668)
Okay guys, we are now in 2006. Let's start planning to meet up somewhere. Possibilities include Patronus in Denmark but anyoone have any other suggestions?

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Jan 12, 2006 4:02 am (#537 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
Maybe... somewhere in Croatia, possibly? No, really, does it have to be on some HP meeting? Because we have lovely weather here at summer... And Adriatic Sea...

Just a suggestion. Kate

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Jan 12, 2006 6:22 am (#538 of 668)
H'mmm Croatia. Could we just go on a Durmstrang hunt? (Well Steve has trackeddown Hogwarts.) Or try and find the village Krum was born in. Or how about some Dragon spotting. Croatia would be quite a good place to work from.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 12, 2006 6:55 am (#539 of 668)
Except Krumm was Hungarian...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jan 12, 2006 7:04 am (#540 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
I thought Krum was Bulgarian... That reminds me that after the GoF movie my husband thought that we saw the England - Hungary Quiddich match...

But actually, there is a mountain where Croatian witches used to gather, I should just check how far it is from our town...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Madam Pince - Jan 12, 2006 8:09 am (#541 of 668)
The eyes are the windows to the soul...
I just read an article in the Travel section of our newspaper which said that Croatia was the hot travel spot to go to in 2005, and they expected it to continue to be popular into 2006. They cited the lovely surroundings and warm & friendly people (we can vouch for that! ) and some very old towns with cobblestone streets, etc. So, not sure what this post is worth except for an encouragement for Croatia as a destination! I know I'd love to visit there sometime. Probably not possible anytime soon, but it sounds lovely! And Lina's landscape avatars are always so pretty....

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Jan 12, 2006 9:01 am (#542 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
Oh, I think we can go to that mountain (first time I agree with my mother), and then you can stay longer, sea is so lovely here... And it can be sometime in summer, how about 7th month, most of people have holidays then. And it would be pleasure to be host.

Kate

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jan 12, 2006 9:46 am (#543 of 668)
I thought Krum was Bulgarian

:headdesk: That's what I get for trying to do several things at once. Thanks Lina!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jan 12, 2006 12:13 pm (#544 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Don't worry, Mare, it's a good way to get prepared for the time when you will have no choice but to do several things at the same time, and to accept mistakes as something normal.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jan 14, 2006 6:03 pm (#545 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I'm willing to meet you guys but I won't know for a few months if I'll be able to join. We had talked about a "digs 2006" in Scotland to track Hogwarts but now Croatia sounds fine too. I think if I come, I'll just align with the majority about the destination.

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Feb 6, 2006 10:21 am (#546 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
It would be great if meeting would be in Croatia because we can't go anywhere too far, and it would be nice to meet at least some of you...

I wanted to suggest Gardaland as a destination, but as Ponine said that she really wants to go there with her sister, I thought if we can wait until she comes back in Europe.

Kate

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Feb 11, 2006 6:51 am (#547 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
I have no objection to Croatia, as "Patronus 2006" is going to happen on the wrong weekend. And having moved to southern Germany makes Croatia 700 km less way. Anytime after mid of July will be fine with me.

"DIGS2006" bases on Steve revealing, where he has located Hogwarts, so we will have to wait.

What are we going to do, then. We have to do our "Treacle Tart contest" somewhen and need people ready to test the results. This fills but one evening. Any other ideas ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
CatherineHermiona - Feb 11, 2006 10:10 am (#548 of 668)
My drawing... LOL
So it is going to be Croatia! Yay!

Any time works for me. After all, I do live here...

Kate

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Feb 12, 2006 9:21 am (#549 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
OK, people, here are few words from me.

You have to know that attending some HP conference is quite a complicated accomplishment for Kate and me, at least for now. So if you would plan some meeting like that, there is very little probability that we could join.

On the other side, we would be more than glad to welcome you in Croatia.

My summer holidays start at the end of July or beginning of August, so it would be great if possible to arrange at that time.

There are 3 possible options for the meeting in Croatia:

1) to meet in Rijeka, our town. If you are interested in this option, I can give you some information on the hotels. We could make a tour around the town and show you some most interesting monuments. And we could organize a trip in the nature. I'm not sure that the beach would be the best idea because they are about to be crowded at that time of the year, but it is not impossible if there would be many people interested in it. The other possibility is to go to the mountains where is a lot of fresh air. Very pleasant in the summer.

2) we could meet in Fuzine, we have our little house (cottage?) there. Those who like to sleep in the sleeping bags, might even come to stay there with us. There is a nice beach at the lake where we could organize that pie competition.

I was talking to my hubby, and I think it would be possible to organize a trip to Klek, a gathering mountain for Croatian witches in both of previously mentioned options.

3) pick some other place in Croatia where we would all come to a hotel and make a research.

The airport that belongs to my town is Krk, but it is quite small and I doubt that you would be able to find some line going there. The closest big international airports are Trieste (Ronchi) and Venice. Zagreb and Ljubljana are not too far either. We have three cars and drivers here that could take care of driving you from the airport to the destination. At the moment, I don't have too many informations on trains and busses, but if you show interest, I'm more than willing to dig.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Netherlandic - Feb 12, 2006 11:04 am (#550 of 668)
Isn't Krk an island?

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Feb 12, 2006 12:05 pm (#551 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Lol, yes it is, but it has a bridge.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Feb 13, 2006 11:49 am (#552 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
And Venice hosts low cost airlines companies...that sounds like a plan. I've already begun to talk hubby in it, telling him there would be no HP talk all the time. Plus I think August would be all right for many of us. I'll let you know in a month or two if I'll do it.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 5, 2006 9:27 am (#553 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I've talked hubby in going in Croatia for the 1st week of August and he's agreed ! So I think I'll come and visit you, Lina and Kate. We can take a plane from Brussels-Charleroi to Venice or Ljubljana, whatever is more easy for you. I'd just like to know if other people are interested with these dates, and to say that I'm interested by a place where there is stuff to visit (monuments, natural sites etc).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Mar 5, 2006 12:14 pm (#554 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Thanks, Septentrion. That's a great start. I believe it might encourage other people to join. Either airport is equally far or close, so maybe we could see the connections that would be suitable for other members too?

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 5, 2006 12:41 pm (#555 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I agree with you, it would be more agreable to arrive together. I'm so excited with the idea of meeting you

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Mar 5, 2006 2:58 pm (#556 of 668)
As always I have absolutely no idea where I will be or where I will be going so far in advance. If I can though, I will join, but don't count on it yet.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 6, 2006 2:15 am (#557 of 668)
Sorry, but the first week of August is out for me. Unless I can get hold of the only real time turner not destroyed in the battle in the MoM.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Mar 6, 2006 12:36 pm (#558 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Like Maré, I will have to look, if I can makei t. I will try to get this week free. But as I just was able to free the "Patronus" weekend, I am not shure. Just sent in a proposal for a presentation- let´s see, if they accept it.

If I can come to the August meeting, I will.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Mar 7, 2006 2:58 am (#559 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
I'd like to go to patronus but as I want to go somewhere with my husband, a HP conference was out. I won't be able to take two vacations this year (need money for a new car). I hope some people will be able to make it then. I can still change my dates later in August if it's better for more people but I need to know really soon.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 7, 2006 3:28 am (#560 of 668)
Detail Seeker - I am hoping to be at Patronus, but I may be in the middle of a job change which would mess things up. If so I will see you there. If not - enjoy.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Mar 7, 2006 10:53 am (#561 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Hello, Phelim !

I press my thumbs, that your job change will be done then or done later. Being in the aftermaths of one myself, I know, this is an interesting time. Hope, it is going to be an improvement from the major aspects.

As for Patronus, I will go there, if the accept my presentation, of course, otherwise I will see.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 11, 2006 8:18 am (#562 of 668)
A little post to tell you all that I'm going to spend the next two weeks in the UK for my work and that I will think of the Accio-London team when I'll be there. You can count on me for eating some treacle tart to your health!

Good luck with your Patronus presentation Detail Seeker!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 12, 2006 5:41 am (#563 of 668)
When and where will you be in the UK Elanor?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Mar 12, 2006 7:06 am (#564 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Have a safe, nice and happy journey, Audrey! Good luck with the "Patronus" presentation, Detail Seeker! I understand it is too early for many of us to make detailed plans for the summer, and I still hope that a nice bunch of us is going to gather! I am about to collect more informations that might be interesting...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 16, 2006 2:11 am (#565 of 668)
Thanks Lina!

Phelim, I am in Cambridge. It is a beautiful town, a bit cold too at the moment but I hope the weather will be better soon!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - Mar 16, 2006 6:11 am (#566 of 668)
How long for? I need to come up to the city and it would be great if you were still there and we could meet.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Mar 18, 2006 8:08 am (#567 of 668)
That would be great Phelim! I'm here till next Friday.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 2, 2006 11:32 am (#568 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
well, it's official, we come to Croatia from July 31th to Aug 7th. I still don't know if we (my husband and I) will come through Trieste or Ljubiana airport, I'd like to know what the others are doing before to book my seats.

Lina, what would be more convenient for you ? do you have something planned ? Where would it be best for us to stay ? It's time to start organise everything : where to sleep, what to see, what to do etc squeee ! I'm so excited about it !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - May 2, 2006 2:37 pm (#569 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Well, Septentrion, you are right. We are quite excited too and we are definitely planning to have that week free. My husband and I keep thinking about the best accommodation. My idea is that it would be the best if we would settle in the mountains (Gorski kotar). I have already searched for some places on the Internet but my hubby is probably going to work there next week, so maybe it would be the best if he'd take a look in first sight.

So, yes, I hope soon I will put here more information.

BUT. If nobody else is interested, then you are quite welcome to stay at our place.

Yet, it would be nice if there were more of us walking through the paths of Croatian fairy tales, legends and witches...

There is a possibility for us to get the keys of the house for hikers (I have no idea if that is the right name, but I believe you get the picture). That would be less luxurious accommodation, but with more freedom.

Anyway, more information soon, promise.

And looking forward!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 3, 2006 2:41 am (#570 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
the moutains sound good, though if you think of something else, it would be welcome as well. We don't care too much about comfort as far as it's clean and with a shower. What's there to visit in the places you've spoken of ? I love old buildings, ruins etc and wandering in the country as well. My husband isn't fond of Harry Potter at all but he's looking forward to meet you and find out more about Croatia, its people etc

I believe the national feast will be while our stay. Are there special manifestions ? How is it ?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Phelim Mcintyre - May 4, 2006 12:54 am (#571 of 668)
Ahhhhh, I can't come. I'm busy that week watching the Hollyhead Harpies play while on Scout Camp in Notrh Wales. Sorry everyone. Oh yes, they're playing the Montrose Magpies.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - May 8, 2006 3:27 pm (#572 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Congrats to Lexicon Steve for being the keynote speaker at Patronus!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 9, 2006 10:39 am (#573 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
yeah, congrats to Steve and to Detail Seeker whose paper has been accepted ! Makes me sorry not to attend...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - May 9, 2006 11:09 am (#574 of 668)
Congratulations to Steve and Detail Seeker indeed!

BTW, do any of you who attended Accio ever received the proceedings? It seems the date they are supposed to issue them keeps being postponed. Last time I checked it was written "by the end of April" but April has come and gone and I haven't seen any proceedings arriving yet...

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 9, 2006 12:44 pm (#575 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
the same to me Elanor ! I wonder how difficult it is to make CD's...



[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Elanor]

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - May 9, 2006 12:49 pm (#576 of 668)
Me too, makes me feel less bad about my %^^#$&@#$%R papers. I'm keeping four people waiting not what, 200? heheheh.

But it would be nice to have them, yes.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - May 9, 2006 1:34 pm (#577 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
The proceedings will be handed out to the visitors of Accio 2007, I guess. Let´s see: Burning about 300 CDs at 15 minutes each will be 75 hours of work, printing out 300 CD sleeves - no, that will be done in a copy shop- , casing the CDs can be done while burning them, no extra time. One hour of printing the adresses, 10 hours of putting them into the envelopes....

Hah, now , I know, what happened: they ran dry when putting on the stamps !

But the team seems to be working still - when I announced my new adress, I did get a nice reply letter from one of the Tims in the team.

When there is a meeting in Croatia, I might make it on one of the weekends. But that´s not shure, now.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 9, 2006 1:46 pm (#578 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
LOL Immo, you got to cheer us up !

About Croatia, I'm planning to be there from July 31st to Aug 7th so if you want to drop by...

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - May 9, 2006 2:14 pm (#579 of 668)
Immo, I keep forgetting to ask: What is the topic you are going to present on?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - May 10, 2006 1:55 pm (#580 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Steffie, it will be about the Physics of Magic- mainly a digest of our discussions back in 2003 plus some stuff from newer discussions. No maths, though !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - May 13, 2006 3:11 pm (#581 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
OK, here I am, finally. Since Septentrion is going to spend here Monday - Monday time, I suppose that would be the weekend 4th to 6th August. As Septentrion noticed, there is a national holiday too that Saturday, but I don't think that should stop us.

The good thing about the mountains is that they have more visitors in the winter than in the summer, so the booking shouldn't be a big problem.

I did some research. There are two hotels with similar prices and informations on the Internet:
one and the other.
Then there is this one that is much cheaper and is not bad at all. I almost think this would be the best choice.

Unfortunately, it is hard to find other hotels on the Internet. But we can talk to any owner and make the reservations. And it would be really nice if more of you could get here. And don't worry, Septentrion, we have a nice plan for you - a bit of the mountains, a bit of sea, a bit of history and a bit of nature!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 14, 2006 5:39 am (#582 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
thank you so much Lina !

Do you think we can use the same hostel during our whole stay or will it be necessary to change to accomodate whatever plans you've made ? I'll soon book our plane tickets, before the end of May. I still hesitate between coming by Trieste or by Ljubiana, I think both destinations are available on a Monday/Monday trip, it depends on what will be more convenient for you at that time. I don't want us to be chores for you. Besides, could you please email me, so that I'll be able to discuss things which needn't be on the forum if needed.

Once more many thanks to you !

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 25, 2006 12:15 pm (#583 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
We'll probably arrive by Ljubjana at the end of the afternoon on July 31st and depart at the end of the afternoon on Aug 7th.

I've checked the hostels you've proposed Lina and I wonder if there isn't something cheaper. I'm afraid I can't pay that much, and as I've told, I just want a clean hostel. Do you think it's possible to find something with double-rooms less than 80 euros/day ? (last I checked, one euro was equivalent to 1,25 kunas).

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - May 25, 2006 3:03 pm (#584 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Septentrion, you have scared me! Now I see why. Last time I checked, 1 euro was 7,2 kunas. I don't know where did you find those exchange rates because they never existed. That would mean that bad and breakfast in Bijela ruza is around 20 euros. Phew. I hope that is OK?

I'm really sorry, I didn't notice that the prices are in kunas and didn't post the exchange rate. Most of the prices for tourists are published in euros, so I wasn't aware that those are not.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 26, 2006 1:26 am (#585 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
That's more than ok ! :blush: I feel more than ashamed now...I must have been very tired and taken kuna for another currency.

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - May 28, 2006 11:30 am (#586 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Lina, I've booked the plane, I'll send you a mail with all details.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - May 28, 2006 1:10 pm (#587 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo

I got your mail, I'll answer you tomorrow!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - May 30, 2006 2:33 pm (#588 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
So, this is official now. Septentrion is here since July 31st (we will have to celebrate Harry's birthday) and the weekend after that (August 5th and 6th) would be great for more of us to gather together. My hubby talked to the owner of Bijela ruza today and he said that it is enough to make a reservation 15 days in advance. And it will be enough to inform us about that and we can talk to him. If anybody needs any more information, you can e-mail me at [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]. The point is that this area is not popular yet, so it is not over crowded in summer, the prices are reasonable (bed and breakfast 20 euros), and the rooms are newly done, so it should be pleasant. No need of an air conditioner. I know that we will enjoy the stay anyway, but it would be nice to meet some more people too.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jun 24, 2006 11:56 pm (#589 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
I'm putting this post, as a remainder, if someone is making plans for the summer now, to consider a week or a weekend in Croatian mountains with some special people. Because every member of the Forum is, of course, special. All the details are in my previous post.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 6, 2006 3:15 pm (#590 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
In about 8 hours, I shall start to copenhagen for the Patronus conference. Sad, that so few other HPLF pals are coming, but I will try to channel the the conference athmosphere to you- if it is worth it.

"See" you all on Monday for a report !

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Jul 6, 2006 3:50 pm (#591 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Detail Seeker – best of luck! Are you presenting anything/doing anything special? If not, enjoy watching!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jul 6, 2006 10:44 pm (#592 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
Detail Seeker, enjoy the conference! Looking forward to your report.

- - - - - - - - - - -
haymoni - Jul 7, 2006 5:46 am (#593 of 668)
Have a great time!

- - - - - - - - - - -
Elanor - Jul 7, 2006 8:50 am (#594 of 668)
Have a great time! Good luck for the presentation! And say hello to Troels from us all if you see him there!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 7, 2006 10:03 am (#595 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Have the best of times Immo, and I'm curious to read your report. I hope it'll be as great as accio was.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Detail Seeker - Jul 9, 2006 1:02 pm (#596 of 668)
Quod tempus non sanat, sanat ferrum,... so prepare
Hello, everybody !

Patronus was great - a small group of about 70 particpants, good athmosphere, very friendly. Steve and I were the only HPL(F) participants, though, a real pity. Troels seems to have vanished from the suface of this earth.

Steve gave a great opening (history of HP, new research features for the Lexicon - We are trapped in HP (Why did I feel reminded of the YKYAHPLFF thread in that part ?), was panelist in the discussion of the GoF-movie and agreed to make another presentation replacing one, that could not be held - I missed that though because my plane left too early. And YES !, he did reveal the possible real location of Hogwarts and how he found it !

We learned different reasons, why amnd how reading in itself and especially reading HP makes us comfortable (though the idea that reading a new HP book while being online and starting discussions here, as seen at the release day of HBP) did not seem to be everybody´s idea of a comfortable first reading.)

We heard about different view of human-animal transformations in Native American Indian and Buddhist mythology , about the fact, that Snape has lot of analogous characters in Byrons lyrics and that from all rules of systematics, Draco Malfoy has to be the person completing the trio in anaolgy to Marauders. Yes, and just we all share a lot of knowledge about our characters, we know, when fan fiction makes characters do impropable things.

Very interesting were the reports about the russian HP-scene, where a whole lot of independent translation projects are working to get better results than the - very bad- official versions. These two presentations alone would have been worth the visit. My "Physics of Magic" presentation was fun, too.

As there will be no Accio 2007 (the organizers have some hassles with WB lawyers and the Patrouns people have also heard from those..... (insert not nice words here), there will be another euopean conference in 2007, celebrating 10 years of Harry Potter novels being availabe ([You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] planned from July 19 - 22. 2007 in or near London. The organizers - who were at Accio and Patronus want to make it larger event than Accio though the projected 1200 participants of Lumos this year in Las Vegas seem to be far, far away. The call for papers is up and I will be there, propably presenting an enhanced version of this years presentation. Audrey, I did not forget to send you the paper - I did not write it. Just the presentation slides are existant, but I promise to write it now....

So, it was real fun and I am looking forward to meeting a larger bunch of us from the Forum there.

That much for this evening, bed is calling loud.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Finn BV - Jul 9, 2006 1:32 pm (#597 of 668)
Me kayaking, Niagara River, August 2006. I have been likened to Reepicheep in this photo.
Detail Seeker, thanks for the report! What a great experience for you, and what passion you show about Harry Potter for going to these events. Glad you got to see Steve.

- - - - - - - - - - -
Mare - Jul 9, 2006 4:17 pm (#598 of 668)
It sounds great Immo, I would love to read your paper as well. And audreys, if Accio ever sends them...

And beeeh on the WB people, we don't even want anything to do with their stupid movies, we like to discuss the canon, so go away!

And London 2007 sounds... tempting, if I can get a job to pay for it!

And I will also wish Lina and Pacaline a great vacation allready.
Sorry their are so few of us coming to the "meet up" but I'm sure you will have lots of fun!

- - - - - - - - - - -
septentrion - Jul 10, 2006 12:40 am (#599 of 668)
Art by Makani, icon by Pearle
Thanks Immo for your report, and please send me your presentation when it's written. London in 2007 sounds tempting though if book 7 is released next year, Audrey and I had been planning to go there for it. Well we'll see.

Thanks for your best wishes Steffie. I wish you the best too in your job hunting.

Lina did you receive my email?

- - - - - - - - - - -
Lina - Jul 10, 2006 7:32 am (#600 of 668)
Kate's new T-shirt and henna tattoo
I have just answered you, Septentrion.

Immo, thanks for the report. I'm glad you had a wonderful life and am hoping that there will be more opportunities to meet you all in person.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

[Sponsored content]