Help!

Okay, let's have a moment of silence to commemorate how bad I am at consistent posting. -----------------------. Done. Now I have a mission for several of you. It is very hard and requires the most skilled minds. Here are your instructions.

1. Go to the "Who Am I?" page of my blog.
2. Comment as to whether you see the fancy font on "In a hole in a ground, there lived a Hermione."

Thank you! I know this is a really short post and you all probably hate me, so I'll give you a funny picture to occupy the emptiness and lack of stuff in this post. Plus it has ducks. I like ducks.

Life Update :)

Hello my darlings! I'm here to bring you an update on my life! 

So FIRSTLY, I fixed my blog header. Remember it was a collage? Then I deleted an account connected to this one and it (along with most of my other pictures) went blank :(. But it's back! Yay!

Second of all, I recently finished Season 3 of Supernatural. Which only took me five days. 

Social life? Um...does fantasizing about myself hunting with the Winchesters count?

No spoilers, but at the end my reactions were basically:

BUT I've started Season 4, and that's introduced me to Misha Collins as Castiel.

I am both a) in love with him, and b) absolutely terrified of him. Seriously. He is frightening.

UMMMMMMMMMMMM.........OH! Piano covers. Right. 

Okay, don't kill me. But..um...I...lost...my...camera charger.

Sorry! But I am doing my very best to find it! But I DO have a song picked out, and I am practicing like crazy to get it perfect!

Well, that's about it for now! Let me know what's been going on with you in a comment! Stay fantastic!

<3<3Hermione

ASKLJHIDJHSKF

CURRENTLY FREAKING OUT.

NOTHING IS OKAY.

I AM DEAD.

TWELTH DOCTOR OF DOCTOR WHO HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED.

Let me introduce you to...

PETER CAPALDI!!!

HE LOOKS GOOD BUT I'M JUST GOING TO MISS MAT SO MUCH AJAHDFIULWEAH I NEED MY LITTLE AWKWARD RAGGEDY MAN GIRAFFE.

So on Friday, I heard they were announcing the 12th Doctor actor on Sunday. But I thought people were just trying to get the WHOVIANS ALL WORKED UP!!!!!

NO.

NOT A JOKE.

IT WAS REAL.

So at first my reaction was.

Then I realized it was real.

And then--

And as soon as my family saw me sobbing and wandering around the house bumping into things they just sort of--

Now if you'll excuse me I am done with the world.

Piano Covers

So, this is something that maybe probably sort of likely will happen. I've considered taking videos of me (well, my hands) playing songs on the piano, and then posting them to this blog. What do you guys think? It would be pretty rare, since my camera might not work, and the sound quality could be bad, but it's a though.

If I do post videos, the first one is likely to be "On My Own" from Les Miserables. And maybe "God Help the Outcasts" as a second?

PLEASE tell me what you think and any song recommendations (I have Les Miz, Phantom, Disney, West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof, Love Never Dies, and lots more). I have mostly musical songs, but also some very well known songs, so leave some ideas! Thank you!

My Latest Obsession

 *Deep-breath* My name is Hermione Thérnadier, and I am a binge-watcher.

*Collective gasp*

Yes, it's true. I could watch a whole season of a TV show on Netflix in one sitting. It started with Doctor Who, then Sherlock, and now we have my latest obsession for binge-watching: Supernatural.
I first heard about it through a friend who I have to thank for my Whovian-ness, and then my sister got hooked, and now me.

Supernatural is about two brothers who, after losing their mother to a demon of the younger brother's six-month birthday, are raised by their dad to hunt monsters. The two brothers are Sam (Jared Padeleki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles). But it's sort of annoying, seeing as Jared, who plays Sam, also played Dean from Gilmore Girls. I got used to it eventually.

Anyway, while Dean is outgoing and more of the party type, Sam is the kind who would be sitting in the corner of a room at some huge party reading a book, or observing--the wallflower type. The show centers around the brothers' hunts for monsters, and the demon that killed their mother.

I L-O-V-E (why does spelling it add emphasis) this show, and I would recommend it to anyone who doesn't scare easy :P.

<3,
Hermione T.

To Be Read List

Immediately
A Study in Scarlet, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Les Misérables Volumes IV&V, Victor Hugo

Soon
The Fault in our Stars, John Green
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Within the Year
Emma, Jane Austen
The Return of Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
The Hound of the Baskervilles, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Yeah...went to the bookstore and got a Sherlock Holmes collection :P.

My Ideal Eponine

Okay. This post may be very long and rant-y, (and watch out for spoilers) so, if you are curious to hear what I have to say on the topic of "My Ideal Eponine," I suggest you get comfortable with some limeade and a pudding cup or two or three or eighty-seven.

Alright. Deep breath. Aaaannnnnddd.

For those of you who don't know, I am currently reading Victor Hugo's Les Miserables. As of today, I am currently on Book Eighth of Volume III: Marius, after completing the prior two Volumes (Volume II was awful, just saying). The past few chapters have rather excited me because Eponine has now been introduced (the older Eponine, not the bratty, spoiled little one who was introduced way back in Volume I). Reading about her, as she enters Marius' apartment, sent by her father to ask for money, as she shows off to Marius that she can read and write, and as she states how handsome she believes him to be, triggered this question for me:

What, taking both the book and musical into account, do I expect in my ideal Eponine?

And here we go.
I feel I can make my point by looking at the much-loved Eponine solo "On My Own." "On my own, pretending he's beside me/all alone I walk with him till morning," etc., etc. I ask myself (and perhaps you might ask yourself this, too) What is Eponine feeling at this moment? For many, it is sadness. For some, it is frusturation, For me? Bitterness.

I've never thought of Eponine as one to pity herself. Rather, I feel she would feel bitterness and resentment towards herself, her parents, and even Marius.
Well why Marius? Doesn't she love him?
Of course. But at this point in her life, Eponine is confused. She is feeling this unbearable pain at Marius' love for Cosette, which makes her resent Marius. Why is he doing this to her? Eponine pushes her feelings of love aside until (SPOILER ALERT) her death, when she takes a bullet for him by putting her hand  in front of a gun aimed at Marius.

A part of "On My Own" around the climax of the song says, "Without me his world will go on turning/A world that's full of happiness that I have never know". There are a good deal of people who enjoy this sung through a face full of tears. That's okay. But personally, I believe that Eponine is stronger than that and should sing those words like they're poisonous.. She's gone through life trying to keep her head up while she's stuck in almost literally Hell (pardon). "Her name was Eponine/Her life was cold and dark yet she was unafraid", anyone? I feel like Eponine's big question in "On My Own" is pretty much "What is wrong with Marius? Why do I feel this way?" but most of all "What is happening?" She's confused. Bitter. Resentful. And that is my ideal Eponine.

The Barricades (OHMYGOSH)

Okay, so, my sister pointed this out to me, and I just HAD to share it with you guys!

In the movie, when you see the barricade, there are two coffins: A regular-sized red one, and a small blue one. I made this picture to help you guys see this:

Okay, let's see. Who died at the barricade wearing red?

And who dies at the barricade wearing blue who would fit into that blue coffin?

My work here is done.

Happy Fourth!

Happy Fourth of July!

(Yeah, the highlighted text looks weird but the white wouldn't show up [obvious reasons] and I couldn't change the color 'cause Blogger's being mean :( )

Yup, it's my (our, if you live in the US) country's birthday! So, happy birthday, United States of America!

To those of you who are also American citizens, are you doing anything fun to celebrate Independence Day? Leave your response in the comments below!

See you soon,
Hermione

The Stimulation of my Mind that Always Occurs at the Wrong Time

Lately, I've been facing a dilemma.

Sleep.

It's not that I haven't been getting enough of it, what with being able to sleep in for another two weeks until camp, but when I lay down in my bed, I like to drift off gracefully.

But my mind has another idea.

Me: Okay, well I think I'm just going to sleep now. let my mind be filled with thoughts of unicorns and marshmallow fields with candy mushrooms.

Mind: Haha, nope.

Me: Excuse me?

Mind: Hey, remember that time you fell down the hill dressed as Batman?

Me: *blushing shamefully* Yes, that was a week ago--

Mind: I think I'm going to make every single part of your body itch insanely right now! 'Kay?

Me: Wh--

Mind: Hey remember each and every single humiliating and dreadful thing that ever happened to you?

Me: Kill me.

Mind: Sleeping on this side is boring! Let's sleep on your other side! Or maybe your back? Facedown? Spread eagle?

Me: Okay, let's just--

Mind: OHMYGOSHWASTHATLIGHTNING?! Hey, what are you going to wear tomorrow? Did you remember to turn off the basement light? Let's reenact the final battle of Les Miz right now! Maybe one day you'll be on Broadway! Hahahahaha, no. Quick! Side change! Flip! Nah, let's go back. Hey, remember when you ran into a wall. Of course you do! You run into them all the time! Hey, I just remembered another embarrassing thing that's happened to you! You want to think about it all night? Okay!

Me:

Me:

Me:

Me:

Me: What. Just. Happened.

And after that excruciating process that lasts MUCH longer that it may seem from above, I finally drift off peacefully.

The End.

(P.S. One more thing! If you'd like to submit a guest post remember to email me at hermionegranger2121@gmail.com! this will be running until September 1st. More information can be found here: http://everythinghermione.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-shiny-new-guest-post.html)

Hogwarts Survival Guide

I was thinking--a dangerous and frightening human past-time--about that poor, unfortunate Muggle who received my Hogwarts letter by mistake and is now stumbling around Hogwarts, failing all his classes, and bringing shame to his family.
Ouch.
I decided to take pity on this poor soul and help him through his challenging times, and give him this handy Hogwarts survival guide. Let's begin.

Rule #1:

When summoned to the Headmaster's office, please DO NOT ARGUE with Snape's portrait.

Ooh, look it's Snape! I think I'll make a bunch of Lily references in front of him because he's a portrait! He can't do anything!

Just. No. Please.

I understand that maybe you'd like to see Snape's sentimental side for yourself, but PLEASE FOR MERLIN'S SAKE JUST DON'T!

Rule #2:

Unless speaking to Mr. Weasley, please refrain from excessive explanations of the function of rubber ducks.

Why? Well--

I'm sorry.

Rule #3:

Do not show any wizards who are not Muggle-borns or of any relation to Muggles the Harry Potter books.

You will cause all of this paranoia and then we will have to question the universe and our purpose in life and all that good stuff.

Rule #4:

When meeting any HP character from the books, please do not pounce on them and rip up their hair and/or clothing.

We just can't deal with the lawsuits anymore. Trust me I know from my near 10 years in Azkaban experience.

Rule #5:

That's it.

So, enjoy your time at Hogwarts, I guess. And I forgive you for the letter mix-up. Sort of. A little. Not that much. Not a bit. Absolutely not.

Mischief Managed!

~Hermione

A Shiny New Guest Post?

Lately I've been realizing that over the summer I may not be able to post that much (only two to four time a month, probably :( ). So, I was wondering if any of you would want to do a guest post? It can be about whatever you want, just keep it clean. You can write up one just for this blog, or take it from your own blog. It doesn't matter, so long as it's written by you :). Just email me your post to hermionegranger2121@gmail.com and I'll schedule it to post in the order it was sent (first come first serve). While you are welcome to submit several, I'd prefer you wait until I post your first one before you send me a second. Please no more than three per person.
Thanks!
Hermione

Happy Summer!/Summer Update #1

Sorry this is late, but I just wanted to wish you all a happy summer! I, like many of you, got out on the 14th. In those five days (wow, only five???) a lot has happened. I...

>Volunteered at a preschool summer camp as a somewhere between counselor and CIT.

>GOT CONTACTS!!! :D

>Okay, not that much has happened :P.

But I've had a lot of fun, and will update you more on my summer later.

So, how's your summer going? Are you happy to be done with school? What are your plans? Type your response in that little box down there and comment!

Just the Little Things

For those of you who don't know, I had a small part in a play at my school. There was this guy, an 8th grader (older than me), and I only ever spoke to him once when we were moving a set piece together.
Anyway, so the other day, I was having a really bad day. I was fighting with one of my friends, this girl was being mean to me...you get the idea.
So, I'm walking through the 8th grade hall, and I'm trying to stay low, because the 8th graders never acknowledge someone in the younger grades unless it's to try to creep them out or maybe even pick on them. And then he walked by me.
And this is what he did.
He tapped me on the shoulder, called my name, smiled, and said hi.
It might not seem like much, but it was actually really sweet of him to do that. the fact that he remembered my name and was nice enough just to say hi as he passed me made me feel really great.
From this point on, I will always remember that day, and how good it made me feel.
So, that's my rambling for today! Hope you enjoyed it!
<3,
Hermione

Funny Les Miz Gifs!

I didn't know you could make Les Miz funny. I know now.

HE PINKY SWORE!!!

Yes, how do you smuggle a cow into a barricade in the midst of the French Revolution...?

Don't worry, Enjolras...

***NOTE: THESE PICTURES ARE NOT MINE. I DID NOT MAKE THEM, OR TAKE PART IN MAKING THEM.

Please Comment if You Are...

Please comment if you are one of the following and I have not followed you yet (leave your blog link, too).
-A Potterhead
-A Musical Freak
-A Music Lover
-A Whovian
-Sherlocked
-A Book Lover
-An MDBC Fan
-A Winnie the Pooh Fan
-An EH Follower :P
-Other
Just want to find some good blogs to follow :). Also, if you are a follower, it's quite possible I have forgotten to follow you back (hence the :P--directed towards me--after EH follower).
()_()
(^.^)
~Hermione

Happy Memorial Day

It's that time of barbecues and swimming, and let's not forget that bonus day off of school! Yes, Memorial Day is here again, and we get to relax and kick back with a book and a slice of watermelon.

But why don't we stop and think for a moment about why we have such a sweet deal.

Soldiers fought and fought for our country, so we could live our lives in comfort. Even today, there are soldiers serving our country, serving us. So take a break from the fun--just for a second--and think about not what you're doing, but why you're doing it.

So to all those soldiers who fought--and those who are still fighting--I raise my hand in a salute, and encourage all to do the same. I have nothing more to say but "Thank you".

Have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend.

-Hermione

I Think I May Lose Several Followers For This...

I've been debating whether or not to post this for quite some time now. But I can't hide any longer.

I've been keeping secrets from you.

This has been going on for too long now. I need to open up. Deep breaths, deep breaths. Before continuing any further, I warn you, dear reader to brace yourself. The content you are about to read is disturbing, and is not for the faint of heart. Okay, here it goes.

I,

Hermione,

Do

Not

Like

Pie.

Yes, it's true. While all my friends (and perhaps some of you bloggers) go gaga for treat, I turn away, with  tad bit of disgust. Please do not think badly of me. I can tolerate a sliver, but not much more. It's not the crust, nor is it the topping, it's the middle. Now, if the middle were to be 7 Hershey's chocolate bars, well! But I am most certainly not a fan of that lemon, or key lime filling.

I'm sorry.

I had to come out.

Feel free to scorn me.

Staying pie-free,

Hermione

All I Want...

It occurred to me late last Thursday that all I want--all I really, truly want--is for someone to send me an "Edible Arrangement."

I mean all I really want is for someone to send me one of these just amazing, mouth-watering, fruit arrangements that are equally as fun to stare at as to eat.

Selfish? Yes. I'm sorry. I want world peace, and happiness, and all that stuff--but look at it. Look at it.

The Liebster Blog Award

It would appear that the Liebster Blog Award has made a pit stop at my blog during it's continuous journey through cyberspace. This time, I have the lovely Nina over at her blog to thank. Let's begin.
Rules:

• Link back to the person who nominated you.
• Answer the eleven questions set for you.
• List eleven facts about yourself.
• Nominate eleven bloggers with less than two-hundred followers who you feel REALLY DESERVE this award. REALLY deserve it. Really.

Well, I've already linked Nina, so...

Number One:

What is your favorite band(s)?

Well, I'm not much of a Direction-er, and for some reason that's the only band I can think of at the moment--ah, yes! Imagine Dragons. I could listen to "It's Time" allllllllllllllllll daaaaaaaaaaaay. That's actually the only one of their songs I know, though ^_^.

Number Two:

Favorite Book(s)?

If you have read even ONE POST on my blog (or perhaps just looked at my pen name), you should know this. For those of you who may be a little slow...HARRY POTTER!!!!!!!!!

Number Three:

Facebook, Twitter, or Tumblr?

I have none of these, but I do adore browsing around on Tumblr like I do on Blogger :).

Number Four:

Favorite school subjects?

I'll rank them: #1: Band, #2: P. E. #3: Math #4: English #5: World Studies #6: Science  (Mostly because I just don't like my teacher's teaching style) #7: French (Again, teacher problems. My classmates are awful, and the teacher is extremely passive)

Number 5:

Future career?

I honestly have no clue. I LOVE music, but that may be more of a hobby thing. I really like space and astronomy, too...

Number Six:

How would you describe yourself?

A highly-functioning sociopath ;). Haha. Really, I suppose I could describe myself personality wise as a blend of insanity, randomness, awkwardness, and some other fourth adjective.

Number Seven:

What would you like to change about yourself?

I hate certain things that anger me. Like when someone copies me. I'm sorry, but---

So, yeah. I would change that.

Number Eight:
If you had one wish what would it be?

100 wishes. Not unlimited, because in every movie like that, something bad happens. and I've seen a lot of movies, LOL.

Number Nine:

Film or book that made you cry?

Movie: Les Miserables. Book: Harry Potter #6 and #7.

Number Ten:
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?

Hogwarts. It exists!

Number Eleven:
Political standing?

I ignore every sentence with the word "Political" in it. Sorry!

Well, that's done. Now for the facts!

1) I like dogs.
2) I don't not like dogs.
3) I enjoy canines.
4) I don't not enjoy canines.
5) I ran out of ways to say I like dogs.
6) Never mind, I just thought of another one.
7) It'll be in the next fact.
8) Haha, I lied.
9) Don't worry, it'll be here soon.
10) I promise.
11) I broke the promise.

~*~

Well! Would you look at that? Eleven facts! Now for the nominations.

Hilda

Seana

July

Lily

Hannah

Abbi

Mars

Treskie

Audrey

Helena

Emily
And now it's Question Time!

What is your favorite musical/play?
Books or Movies?
Are you an HP fan?
Favorite thing to be doing on a weekend?
What's your guilty pleasure?
Longest book you've ever read?
Hot beach or freezing snow?
Favorite superhero?
Play any instruments?
Where are you as you answer this?
Dark, milk, or white chocolate?

Have fun!
~Hermione

Opening Night

Well, last night was opening night, and despite a few minor errors, it went really well. Everyone loved it. It flowed smoothly and the cast reacted to holdups well. At one point, the Oompa Loompas were late getting out the boat for one of the scenes. Wonka just stood there and said, "That boat's always late. We should really get it checked out." The audience likes that. Wonka's mic wasn't on for the opening number, but he projected really well, and I could hear him from my spot in the back of the gym.
Curtain call was great. The ensemble got half a standing ovation seeing as there were so many of us, making a good percentage of the audience our friends and family. At the end, though, the director hadn't told us when to go offstage, so we all just kind of stood there in an awkward silence. Every time the applause died down someone in the cast would just start clapping again until the director shooed us offstage :).
All in all, it went really well. Thank you all so much for your support.
-Hermione

Nervous

Hello! Well, this weekend is my schools' production of the musical Willy Wonka! Despite my meager ensemble role, I am SO NERVOUS. I'm at the "bottom of the food chain" as it is phrased in many books, at my school, so at least I got in. But I do sing a lot, and my part involves running through the audience during the opening number and the finale, which for me feels kind of awkward for some reason...
Well, see ya! Got to go practice my part!
-Hermione

Laughing So Hard

Here ia the link to the video this was taken from.

Is It Time for a Change?

I've been considering changing the name of my blog. I've been brainstorming names for a while and I like some of them a tad more than "Everything Hermione". I'd really like to know what you all think, so please comment with feedback, suggestions, etc. It may be a while before I get back to you, seeing as I will be away for the next few days, so I shall leave you with this list of new blog names, most of which are inspired by what those pictures at the top of my blog represent:
--Faith, Trust...And Potter-Dust!
--Beyond the Hundred Acre Woods
--Eyes So Often Lowered  (Les Miserables book reference that doesn't really make much sense).
--A New Fairytale
--The Girl Who Was On Fire! (And Couldn't Find Any Water)  (Too long)
--All Alone...with 7 billion Other People (Meh and too Long)
More to come!
<3Hermione<3

Guest Post by Hilda!

Hello, everyone! So I recently held a contest offering the prize of a guest post. Hilda won that contest, and here is her guest post. Take it away, Hilda!
*~*~*
Hey everyone! Thanks to Hermione for picking my entry. I am truly grateful. :D

So here is my guest post for today. I cannot take credit for this short story and I don’t know who the author is, but I translated as best I could from hispanomagazine.com. I wanted to share it with all of you because it’s so beautiful. It left me speechless when I first heard it. So here it goes."

Chinese Legend

It has been told back in the year 250 A.C., in ancient China, a prince of the north region of the country was about to be crowned Emperor, but according to the law, he must marry. Knowing this, he decided to hold a competition for the women of the court to see which would be worthy to be his wife.

The next day, the prince announced that in a special ceremony he will receive eligible maidens and hold a contest. An old servant woman who worked in the palace for many years heard the news. She was so distressed over her daughter because she knew her daughter was deeply in love with the prince. Once she arrived home and told he daughter the news, she was shocked to hear that she wanted to be at the ceremony.

With doubt she asked her, “My daughter, what will you do there? All the most beautiful and rich ladies will be there. Take that idea out of your head. I know you must be suffering, but do not let your suffering lead you to insanity.”

And the daughter replied, “No, my dear mother, I am not suffering and I am not crazy either. I know that I will never be chosen, but it is my opportunity for at least a few moments to be close to the prince. This would give me joy.”

At night the young girl arrived at the palace. All the most beautiful maidens were there, with the most gorgeous clothes, with the most gorgeous jewels and with the most determined intentions.

Then, at last, the prince announced the rules of the contest. “I’ll give each one of you a seed. Whoever brings me the most beautiful flower in 6 months will be chosen by me, a wife and Empress of China.”

The rules of the prince followed its tradition of that village, of proudly specializing in cultivating something which are traditions, friendship, relationships, etc.

The time had passed and the sweet girl, who had no ability in the arts of gardening, she took great love and patience taking care of her seed and knowing that if the seed grew and bloomed like her love, she would have no worries with the results. Three months had passed and nothing bloomed. The young girl tried all methods to get it to sprout but nothing worked. Day by day she saw her dreams far away, but her love was more profound.

At last, 6 months had passed and nothing sprouted. Aware of her hard work and dedication the young girl told her mother that no matter the circumstances she will return to the palace on the day and hour announced just to be close to the prince for a few moments. On that announced hour she was there, with her empty pot. All the other maidens had a flower bloomed, each one more beautiful than the other, of the most variable forms and colors. She was amazed. Never had she seen a scene so beautiful.

Finally the moment had come, and the prince observed every maiden with lots of care and attention. After looking over the maidens, one by one, he announced the results. That young girl with her empty pot shall be his future wife. The rest of the participants had unexpected reactions. No one could understand why he justly chose her who had not cultivated anything.

And for that, the prince calmly replied, “She was the only one who cultivated the flower which dignifies her to convert to Empress: the flower of honesty.  All the seeds I handed out are sterile.”

The Flu and Contest Winner!

Hello, everybody! I am so sorry I haven't posted this yet! I've been sick with the flu for a week, and have had A LOT of schoolwork to make up! So, without further ado, the winner...
...of the Everything Hermione Blog-Aversary Contest is...
...HILDA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D
Everyone, this is Hilda's entry:
  The Mysterious Present
                                   by Hilda D.


Dear Mrs. Smith,

I am Amy Johnson and I am 12 years old. I’m so excited because my birthday will be this Saturday! I am going to be 13. Mom and Dad said that I can get any item from the auction tomorrow as a birthday gift, but it has to be under two hundred dollars. Still, that is a lot for a birthday present, so I said “okay.”

At the auction, I saw several items that was going to be auctioned off. There were some old lamps, lots of old paintings, an antique trunk, and some other stuff. When I saw those, I got disappointed because I then realized that auctions are just to sell off old stuff. As you can tell, I have never been to an auction before this day. Anyway, there was something that caught my eye. It’s hard to explain by this item gabbed my attention as it laid on a crate. It was a desk. It was the only item that looked newer. Either that or it was in great shape for an old desk. After I saw it, then and there, I decided that mysterious desk was mine. I was so excited!

The announcer guy finally brought the desk and I nearly fainted when I heard him say, “We have this desk which was made in 1917 and previously owned by the author, Mrs. Carol Smith. My heart flipped! It was your desk! Whohooo! I definitely had to have it. So the bid was started at a hundred dollars. I whispered to my dad that it was your desk and if I could have it. Dad knows how much I love your books. Your books which I read over and over and over are now so beat up that I had to put tape on some of the pages so that they don’t fall out. But then, I was bummed. Someone had up bid to three hundred dollars. I knew it was gone. I looked at my dad feeling so sad, so depressed, and I tried not to cry.

But guess what? I was shocked to hear Dad shout, “Five hundred dollars!” My jaw nearly dropped!

“But dad, that’s a lot,” I told him.

“I know, honey, but I know how much you love this desk from your favorite author.”

“No, Dad, really. It’s too expensive.”

Then we all noticed that the legs of the desk fell off. The other auctioneers withdrew their bids right away. So did Dad. But I know him. He is smart. When the guy announced a do over, Dad got me the desk for only fifty bucks! It was a miracle!

After my dad fixed the legs of my mysterious gift, I sat down on my regular chair and ran a hand softly across the desk to feel it. It has a few compartments and a tiny one which was locked. I tried to open it but I couldn’t. Dad even tried to pry it open with a flat head screwdriver. No luck. So we just left it at that and I enjoyed writing my homework and stories on it.

I’m home schooled which is awesome because I get to do my homework whenever I want to. I always finish it before ten in the morning which gives me the rest of the day to do other stuff. Sometimes I write stories right after I finish my homework. I want to be just like you, Mrs. Smith.

I better go. I babbled a lot already and you must be busy with writing your next book. That is what I read on your website recently that you are writing another book. When will it be at bookstores?

Your #1 fan and friend,
Amy Johnson.






Dear Amy,

I must say, I am both shocked and pleased that you have my desk. The bad news is, I didn’t give it away. No, dear. It was stolen from me about a week ago. I am pleased you have my desk and you may keep it.  However, I must ask you a big, important favor. In that desk, I have my manuscript. It is on the right drawer to your right. Can you please send it to me to my address? And I ask that you please do not share my address to anyone. If I do not turn in my manuscript by next week, there will be no book for this summer.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith





Dear Mrs. Smith,

You actually wrote to me! I’m so excited! You can have your desk back if you like. And you can totally trust me. I promise, and I never break a promise. I put all your belongings and your story in a box and Dad just shipped it out this morning.

What else was stolen from you? I saw some old lamps and paintings and other stuff at the auction. Are they yours, too?

Your friend,
Amy





Dear Amy,

Thank you so much for your promise! I am definitely trusting you keep my address a secret. And thank your father for me too, please. He must have shipped it to me overnight. It says so in the box. I can’t tell you how relieved I am to have my manuscript back! And it is all thanks to you, Amy, dear. Because of you, my story will be published and available in bookstores this summer.

I don’t know if the other items you saw in the auction were mine, but I am only concerned about my manuscript. It’s important because I had a deadline to meet, which is part of my job. Everything else is just a material thing. No importance whatsoever. Tell your father I sent him a check for the cost of shipping my belongings and a little something extra to say thank you. I am grateful for all you’ve done for me.

You mentioned in your letter that you want to be like me. Dear, the first important rule as an author I will share with you is: be yourself. Every writer has their own story to tell. I have my own. And you have your own, too. If we all copied one another, there wouldn’t be any special authors. We are all special because we are ourselves. Okay, dear?

Secondly, I recommend you start  a journal, or as I call it, a diary. Write in it as often as you can. When you get inspired to write a poem or a story, don’t hold back. Read and write a lot. But also do not forget there is a beautiful world out there filled with beautiful flowers, meadows, and some interesting people. Live your life joyfully. Those adventures are what will inspire you to write about.

Good luck, my dear. There is always room in this world for another great author.

P.S. To open that little door, there is a secret handle under the desk. Pull it to the right and it will open. That is where I stored my inspirational clippings. When I find inspiration from a magazine or from someone, I write it down and store it there for when I need inspiration. You are free to keep them. Hopefully they help you, too.

Love,
Ms. Smith.



Dear Mrs. Smith,

Yup, it is summer vacation. Yahoooo! :-D  And I just finished reading your book, “Adventures with Father.” It was so good I finished it in two days! I would have finished late at night but Mom made me go to bed and took away the book from me. Darn it! Hehee!

Sorry for not answering your last letter. I was so busy with schoolwork and other stuff. Thank you, Mrs. Smith, for your writing tips. I can now see what you mean. I’ve been writing in my diary almost every day when I have the chance. Sometimes it’s long, sometimes it’s only short; like one sentence minimum. I had a rough start because I didn’t know what to write about. But what helped me through was your other advice I found on your website. You must have added it after your letter because I haven’t seen it before, and I check your website often. Under “writing tips” you said that when we get stuck in writing, just write it as if you are writing to someone or telling a story. My neighbor, who is my English teacher, said that my writing has improved a lot.

My dad gave me some money from your check for my birthday present. Thank you so much and for the birthday card. I have it tacked on my corkboard next to my desk. Oh, and about the little locked shelf, I did what you said and it did open! It’s so sweet of you to let me keep them, but I’ve sent them to you yesterday. It’s yours and you need something that will help you feel inspired to write. I already have mine: you’re letters. That is where I keep your letters. :-D


Wishing you all the very best, Love,
Amy Johnson

***
Hilda, you can choose between the prize of a guest post or a weekly guest slot during the month of either April or May!
Thanks to everyone who entered!
<3Hermione

Contest Deadline Extension

Hello!
So it appears I have made quite a lot of confusion about my contest--and I feel awful. So, I am going to extend the deadline to 11:54 pm on March 4th. It doesn't matter what your timezone is, but if it's 11:53 you'd better get your entry in! To review the original rules, click here.
Thanks!
Hermione

Contest Reminder!

Hello! This post is for those who haven't heard about or need a little memory boost for my contest! I have already received two outstanding entries and am hoping to receive more. For information about this contest, click the link: http://everythinghermione.blogspot.com/2013/02/happy-blog-aversary.html. The deadline is midnight of March 1st. Good luck!

The Little Things

Hello! I have been nominated for an award thanks to Lily. I know I haven't been doing awards much lately, but I've decided to change that. I NEED to get that Christmas post off of my homepage :P.
Normally awards are the bane of a blogger's existence. This one, however, I felt was rather sweet. Ladies and gentleman, may I present...
The Little Things Tag.
#1: One thing that makes you feel beautiful?
I suppose taking off my glasses and letting my hair down. And then I come to the conclusion that I need my glasses to see...
#2: What's something that people compliment you on?
While I have gotten appearance compliments like "nice haircut" and stuff, I love it when people say things like "thank you for being such a good friend!"
#3: What's one of your insecurities?
My height.
#4: If you could tell every insecure person in the world one thing, what would it be?
I would just walk up to them, look them in the eye and give them a big compliment. And then walk away.
#5: Do you talk in your sleep?
No. But I cry. Not all the time, just during a sad dream. Which, luckily, doesn't happen too often.
#6: Little things you appreciate about life?
That "even in the darkness, every color can be found" (Dr. Horrible quote).
#7: Favorite little things about someone you love?
My favorite thing about Harry Potter (I don't feel like getting personal) is that he causes so much stress, heartbreak, and emotion that you feel like you raised him yourself.
#8: Something someone said to you that made you feel self-conscious?
I don't let other people's opinions affect me.
#9: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Nothing. I'm PERFECT. Just kidding, but seriously, I wouldn't want to change anything.
#10: What's one thing about yourself that you would never change?
I just sort of answered the reverse of this. So, now I reply with the reverse answer: everything. I want to stay who I am.This makes me sound sort of self-centered, but, whatever.
Tagging: Who ever wants to do this!
Bye!
Hermione

Happy Blog-Aversary!!!

Hi everybody! Well, it's been one year since I started Everything Hermione, and what better way to celebrate this day than with a contest!

But before we get to that, I have to thank each and everyone of my followers. Thank you guys so much for helping me to make Everything Hermione what it is today. Even when I don't post for weeks you guys are always there when I come back. And when I go on those excessively long rants to which most would respond by hitting themselves over the head with a baseball bat, you guys comment with your kind words. Your comments always make my day. I would especially like to thank July for being my first ever follower. I was pretty much giving up on blogging before she joined :). Also, special shot-out to Hilda, who has such kind words in her comments for nearly every post. All of you have been incredibly loyal to me and I am lucky to have had you jump on board this past year. Thank you all for joining EH this year, and I now we'll have lots more fun for the years to come.

Now back to the contest :D.

This contest is going to be a writing contest. I will set out a series of several titles. You must pick one to use for your story. Here are the rules:

1) Story length is unlimited. You can have it ten pages or two sentences! Of course, stories of one or two pages are easier to judge and have a better chance of winning!

2) Entries are do by Midnight on March 2nd--no later unless the deadline is extended.

3) Stories can be of any genre.

4) Stories of inappropriate content will not be accepted. If you get them in early enough, then  I will send it back to you and give you the chance to fix it.

5) Depending on the error, points may or may not be taken off. If you typed "you can'tt" instead of "you can't," I wouldn't take off points. But if you typed "that ain't write," instead of "that isn't right," points WOULD be taken off.

6) Please email your entry to hermionegranger2121@gmail.com. While commenting is acceptable, an email is preferred :).

7) Prize is the option of one guest post or, if you're up to the commitment, a weekly slot during the whole month of April!

8) Have fun!

Here are your titles:

-The Attack of the Vicious Birthday-Cake Eating Bunny Slippers

-Revenge of the Birthday Candles

-The Mysterious Present

-Noodles the Clown: The Story of Why you Should Never Become a Birthday Entertainer

-The Great Wrapping Paper War

Have fun with these crazy Birthday-Inspired titles! I can't wait to see what you come up with.

See ya <3!

Hermione

My Sincerest Apologies

I am so incredibly sorry that I haven't been posting. I've been very busy lately, trying to juggle music lessons, art lessons, play rehearsals, extra curricular activities, and, most of all, school.
It's 2nd semester and the teachers have been loading us down with homework. Just what I need right now.
I promise you that I WILL post more. I don't have another play rehearsal for about a month, so that opens up some space. And it's a long weekend, so...yeah. Also, I'be got about 20 unfinished posts, so I can start shipping some of those out.
Until then,
Hermione

Page Added!

Hey! I just added a new page to my blog--"About Me: Not-So Frequently Asked Questions," and I would LOVE it if you could ask a couple of questions! I added a few standard Q&As, but it would be great if you could ask me some of your own! Thanks!
~Hermione

Les Miserables Movie Review

I have just returned from my second viewing of Les Miserables, my favorite musical of all time.
Wow.
It was amazing. The cast, songs, sets, costumes, camera shots, props--everything. I loved it. It went above and beyond my expectations. I was skeptical at first, but after watching all of the trailers I assumed my star rating would be around a 3.8.
I was wrong.
Not only did I cry for a significantly large portion of the 2 hours and thirty-seven minutes, I also felt so...uplifted at the end. Since it's really not enough just to review the overall movie, I'm going to give the individual cast members a review.

Hugh Jackman (Jean Valjean): Spectacular. He had worked hard on the acting as anyone could tell. He was able to have that completely sunken look--achieved by going without water for 36 hours!!!--that fit Valjean as a prisoner. I understand this was supposed to be about acting, but I wish he had tried a little harder with the vocals--mainly on "Bring Him Home". I wasn't as moved by that song as I have been with other Valjeans.

Anne Hathaway (Fantine): Brilliant. Simply brilliant. Her acting was just...wow. And her singing brought so many emotions. I have no doubt in my mind that there wasn't a better choice for Fantine.

Eddie Redmayne (Marius): This was a job very well done. He did his role remarkably well--and even sort of looked the part! Of course, I'm always kind of mad at Marius...ignoring Eponine like that! How dare he!

Colm Wilkinson (Bishop): Yes, he was a small part, but I feel he deserved a mention. For those of you who don't know, Colm Wilkinson was the original Jean Valjean. And, although he was a small part, I felt very moved by his performance. And especially when they brought him in at the end...wow.

Amanda Seyfried (Cosette): She was good. Her acting was great, but when she sang, although she had a nice voice, she tended to trill a bit too much.

Samantha Barks (Eponine): Fabulous. Absolutely fabulous. Acting: brilliant. Left me bawling. Singing: Spectacular. She just...amazing. Truly amazing.

Russell Crowe (Javert): I left this one for last, because I have some very big thoughts on this. Okay, so in every review I have read, they hated Russell Crowe. No one had a kind word to spare. One particularly nasty review asked him why he was "trying to sing through a mouth full of Wonder Bread".
Now my thoughts:
This man, Russell Crowe, was................................................................................... PHENOMENAL. The best Javert I have ever seen, and I have seen many. When he sang "Stars", I was so moved...I don't know where to begin. I'll admit it; I didn't really think he could do it. Javert is a harder part to play than you'd think. But, boy, he DID IT. He expressed Javert's emotions perfectly, and left me in tears. But there's a particular scene...
...a scene that just so happens to be my favorite before the movie came out...
...that was...
Amazing.
Spectacular.
Brilliant.
Phenomenal.
Awe-inspiring.
Wonderul.
Terrific.
Tremendous.
Fantastic.
Marvelous.
Extraordinary.
Magnificent.
Outstanding.
And none of these are even close to describing just how good it was.
My favorite scene is (spoiler alert!) "Javert's Suicide." It was just...it was....I felt...I still can't think of the right word. I know Russell Crowe will never read this, but if he were to, I would tell him this: Don't listen to the critics. Ignore the hate. You, sir, moved me in such a way that was unbelievable. Your performance changed me. Thank you.

Was that corny? Well,if it was it doesn't matter, because I meant every word.
I'm sorry, but I must leave and go rethink my whole life.
See ya!
Hermione