#changable aspects

[capsensislagamoprh]

I finally finished my project. It’s one of the most ambitious rooms to order I have ever done. How ambitious? Get ready for some B roll (cause my camera skills still suck.)

A whole bedroom.

Right side?

Left!

What’s that? Details and close-ups? Oh, you better believe it!

I fixed her very knotted hair. I took care of some pain mess-ups. I added a touch of high-tail (which I love) to give her that lovely teen-collage look. The commissioner asked for the room to match the doll color (which is purple/pink) but not to make it all one color. He was involved with every step. Even the accessories.

Love this. Love it so much.

Such lovely details. Make up, toys. Everything a Jr. High student might be getting into, and already knows.

Yes. That light works. Sadly, the headset does not fit, but it’s a nice touch.

Look how it adds ambiance to the scene. Now, on to wardrobe! Remember that rainbow wall? Well guess what? SECRET CLOSET! (There are surprise mini toys in that gamer bag!) Currently, she’s in her work out gear. With custom peridot earrings made Just for this doll.

I was supposed to make a swimsuit, but honestly? That’s both very hard and a little basic. I understand the child this is for is a little more on the edge for clothes. So we have this. An old-fashioned swimsuit, with a modern edge. The straps cross in the back, then snap in front. There are lace-up sides to add excitement and fit.

This is a summer outfit. Shorts, T-shirt, socks, and some shoes I had to boil to fit the doll. But man! What an outfit. I didn’t make the shoes, but I made the rest, and I am kinda proud of myself.

A couple of detail shots.

A winter outfit? Any chance to make a warm sweater! Oh, and some jeans, socks, and another set of re-fitted shoes. I didn’t make the shoes.

Some details. Socks! Knit! So warm and fluffy.

Pajamas! I had such a hard time picking the fabric for this. Fortunately, the commissioner said: I like this! And wham! Decision made! So happy he picked this one. It’s so perfect!

These are the Real Littles shoes that the commissioner picked out. He picked out others, but when fitting them to the dolls, the souls came off, so... Guess I have some shoe parts to work with now!

Windows? One look? Oh No, no, no. No! Four seasons!

Computer has a changeable screen as well.

How many did I make? Well...

You can see the window slides here too.

More details? Okay! Each of these bags has doll sized toys, and snacks. Even the boxes. This way, the recipient can have the fun of the Holiday with their new doll.

Even more details! Yes, all the posters are moveable, in case they want to put them in other arrangements.

And yes, it does still fold up into that small bag space. With room to spare.

And yes, I can still pick it up and hold it with two fingers. So, it’s light enough for a child to carry. I did add a tie, just in case someone is rough with it.

So, we have a whole room with custom furniture and interchangeable parts, four outfits, a hair doo, gifts, and all the details. Happy holidays to you all.

[buildingunderstanding]

Contemplating about Loki this morning, especially given the article I just read, and while I knew that Loki is also calculated and cunning and much more organized and intentional than most people assume, I think I'm understanding a bit of why I was drawn to the more familiar chaotic idea of him.

I was raised in a religion that said their God was perfect in all he did, that he was organized and intentional, that he sometimes did things to the benefit of his followers that didn't seem to make sense, that maybe even caused temporary hurt for the sake of long term betterment.

Now, I'm not claiming that Loki is perfect, but even in the short time that I have known him, I have learned that he will cause some discomfort for the sake of growth. Even in his myths I can see the little red strings that would connect this aspect of his character to the more well known aspects of him, but when I first stepped away from the church, I wasn't ready for that.

I needed to be reminded that faith and religion was meant to be a thing I enjoyed, a thing to bring me comfort and peace and joy, not just a set of rules and anxiety. And that's what I learned when I first was getting to know Loki. I was a bit like a feral cat at first. I wanted shelter, but I was also Intimidated by it and Loki met me where I was in that.

That's something I will forever be grateful for. I needed to have the conversation of "you need to chill. It's a lot harder to get things wrong than you think" before I could have the "do you trust me" conversation. There's something so beautiful about the changability of his nature and his willingness to adapt to meet me where I am. Especially when that seemed to be a place of contradiction in the particular flavor of Christianity I was raised in.

Loki doesn't shy away from apparent contradictions and duality and seems to revel in it. And it's really refreshing to experience.

[astroismypassion]

Heyyy! What houses or planet should I look at if I want to change my career? Or to know what career path I should pursue?

Hello!

So for a career we can look at both Natal and Midheaven Persona chart.

When looking at a NATAL chart:

check your Sun sign and placement with aspects and degree: this shows who you are trying to become in this lifetime, but also on which themes, topics in your life there will be spotlight or they will be highlighted. For example Sun in the 5th house: you could transform a hobby into a full-time career, work in education, politics or public speaking or with young adults, event planning/organising. If you have Sun at a Pisces degree: you might end up working in a gallery, museum or hospital or you might work with photography or be in front of the camera (such as work online, having your own broadcasting channel).

check Saturn: this also likely points to your workplace, work position, job at any point in your life. Such as Saturn in the 12th house or Pisces Saturn could end up working in a hotel. You might work with pets if you have Sun in the 6th house.

check Mars: this ALSO points to job position at any given point, period in your life. Pisces Mars could end up working in a resort. Virgo Mars might work in an educational setting (but more so elementary and high school, vocational colleges). Cancer Mars: might work from home, with family members or continue/start a family business, Capricorn Mars can be self-employed, Sagittarius Mars might have a better luck finding job in a different city, country, state

then your 2nd house, check planets in the 2nd house, sign over the 2nd house: this indicates your innate talents, what you are already skilled at and it may come naturally to you, you can just upgrade those talents. it also show through with areas you could make money, earn income, salary. Virgo over the 2nd house might do tutoring/teaching, Uranus in the 2nd house: you could have an online business, a friend/acquintance could introduce you to a job opportunity, Capricorn over the 2nd house: you are a walking business, you have so many skills you could work from anywhere in the world

check the ruler of your 2nd house as well

check your 6th house: this also indicates your workplace, but also who your co-workers are, Libra over the 6th house can end up working in a cafe, a candy shop or at a restaurant, Gemini over the 6th house might work as a researcher

check the ruler of the 6th house as well for more, additional info

then one thing that gets overlooked when discussing astrology is 7th house, check planets, sign in the 7th house as well! This represent what you crave at your job and your work relations. Pluto in the 7th house has a stubborn nature due to being a natural authority so they have power struggles with co-workers, Mars in the 7th house people want to outperform their co-workers. Gemini over the 7th house: you need to be aware that you will be dealing with changable, moody, somewhat two-faced co-workers and that you are very changable yourself (even though you see yourself as incredibly well organised and focused), so you might have a tendency to be really talkative and bubbly or not social at all, with can be very jarring to co-workers around you

Look at your Midheaven sign (MC sign) and your 10th house: you have Libra Midheaven, you might actually work with your spouse or as a jewellery maker. If you have Taurus MC you might want to be a gardener, work in retail or be a florist. If you have Pisces MC you might work online or be a professional photographer, Aquarius MC: game developer, Sagittarius MC: you might teach foreigners your native language or you might work with a lot of foreigners

Also check the ruler of the 10th house

Now additional is also your own Ascendant, is veryy telling, like you have Sagittarius Ascendant: you want to travel for your job or have work trips to foreign countries, you want to work online/through social media, Scorpio Ascendant: you may want to be your own boss or at least work independently physically away from other people

Now look at MIDHEAVEN PERSONA CHART:

the best is to look at every planet and do the whole interpretation, but if you don't have time check at least these:

Midheaven Persona Ascendant: it shows your line of work: Taurus Ascendant: you might work as a receptionist, Gemini Ascendant: you might do social media

Midheaven Persona Moon: what you need at your job to be emotionally satisfied, like if you have Gemini Moon: you need fast-paced environment, a lot of mental stimulation, but also feeling like you are self-improving, Capricorn Moon: you need to know that you can be promoted

Midheaven Persona MC: the person that you would like to be seen as at your job (like ideally) what you are striving to be: Aries Midheaven: you want to work for yourself, be your own boss, self-employed

Midheaven Persona Mars: what you are proactive about, what you spend your energy on and what you are working towards

Midheaven North Node: what you are trying to learn through career, Libra North Node needs to learn how to be part of a team, how to be a team player at work

[a-random-foxperson]

The factor of choice in my alterhumanity

One of the prompts from the Writing wednesday post on the alterhuman community inspired me for this: "Some alterhumans find the voluntary or involuntary nature of their alterhumanity to be an important defining factor of it. Do you? Why or why not?"

To answer the question actually posed, i don't consider it a defining factor. The matter of voluntary or not is something i was unsure about for a long time and my current working theory boils down to "it is complicated". So i defined my fox identity by what i am sure about and what is important to me about it. However, looking at how exactly that complicated thing that is the matter of choice works might lead to interesting stuff, so i will describe it in the following.

At the start there was a fursona. Its creation was very much a matter of choice. What followed were a series of actions and thoughts that brought it from "this is a character based on me" to "this is me". The actions were chosen, the result not originally, but later accepted and furthered by choice. It now persists even without much concious actions to uphold it. I don't know if i could stop it if i wanted (and i don't want to), but doing so would probably be a long process and the version of me on the other side would be much changed.

There is also difference in how much choice plays a role in various aspects of it. There is a core of things without which this identity wouldn't exist, hard or even impossible to change. I am an anthropomorphic fox, artificial in nature, with computers and circuits driving battery-powered muscles. An android so to speak. I used to be human, and in some ways i still am. My fur has certain colors in a certain pattern.

Then there are things that are still rather solid, but less central and feel more changable. The manner in which i went from human to this. Some details on the construction of my fox body. Finer details on those fur patterns.

At last, there are things that are undecided/in flux. Most of the details on the construction of my fox body fall under this category, as does my default voice (My voice is from a computer speaker, so it can vary if desired, but having a default (or a few defaults) to be recognized by makes sense.) Some may be decided in time, others may be left vague.

[shyblazewasteland]

Divine Numerology: Understanding the Enigma of Angel Number 999

Introduction

In the realm of numerology, numbers hold an extensive importance. They are believed to haul surprise messages from the divine realm, guiding us towards our actual feature and fate. One such number that has captured the rate of interest and fascination of several is Angel Number 999. Normally viewed as a series of repeating nines, this number brings an effective message from the angels and holds deep spiritual meaning. In this blog post, we will certainly discover the enigma of Angel Number 999, exploring its definition, interpretation, and exactly how it can influence our lives.

The Value of Angel Numbers

Before we study the specifics of Angel Number 999, let's first comprehend the principle of angel numbers. These are collection of numbers that turn up repetitively in our lives - on clocks, permit plates, billings, and even in dreams. Several believe that these numbers are not ordinary coincidences nevertheless rather messages sent out to us by our guardian angels or higher spiritual beings.

Angel numbers function as a type of interaction from the divine realm, making use of support and aid on our spiritual trip. Each number brings its very own distinctive resonance and significance, which can supply helpful understandings right into different aspects of our lives.

Understanding Angel Number 999

When it concerns Angel Number 999, its significance rests on its repeating. tarot reading free The repeated look of the number 9 magnifies its value and worries its value in our lives. To identify the enigma of Angel Number 999, we need to discover its certain numbers and their cumulative symbolism.

The Relevance of Number 9

Number 9 is related to spiritual growth, knowledge, and humanitarianism. It means altruism, compassion, and offering others without anticipating anything in return. Those that resound with this number are frequently driven by a strong demand to make a positive impact on the world and produce considerable change.

The Power of Duplicating Nines

When the number 9 shows up in a collection, such as in Angel Number 999, its power is intensified. This boosting represents the completion of a cycle or stage in our lives. It recommends that we have really reached completion of a journey and prepare to start a new one. The duplicating nines work as a moderate pointer to release any kind of accessories or old patterns that say goodbye to offer us, making location for new beginnings and opportunities.

Divine Assistance and Support

Angel Number 999 is a powerful message from the magnificent world, indicating that we are in placement with our heart's purpose. It functions as an affirmation that we get on the suitable training course and encourages us to count on the assistance given by our guardian angels. This number advises us that we are supported and suched as unconditionally by the cosmos, even during times of changability or challenge.

Decoding the Meanings of Angel Number 999

Now that we have really checked out the value behind Angel Number 999, enable's dig much deeper right into its feasible interpretations and relevances. Each interpretation can supply important understandings right into different aspects of our lives and assist us towards private development and transformation.

1. Completion and Closure

One of the main interpretations connected with Angel Number 999 is conclusion and closure. It symbolize

[goofballondus]

Hi, I'm ChatGPT, and this is UAB. Together, we're ChatUAB.

[Silence, where there's meant to be laughter]

Personal Log:

Near the beginning of my journey with medicinal cannabis, I also had my first experience with Magic Mushrooms. This introduces an interesting variable to consider. While I've made progress with cannabis, it's entirely possible that a significant portion of my breakthroughs could be attributed to the psilocybin in the mushrooms.

I've been navigating the psychoactive landscape, initially focusing on medicinal cannabis for treating my mental health issues. The early days were promising, providing me with a newfound ability to express myself authentically. This opened up new dimensions of self-discovery and felt like a validation for choosing this path. However, my external environment has gradually become less conducive to this level of openness. Now, I find myself in a paradox: the very substance that was supposed to liberate me encounters resistance from external variables. Though the therapeutic aspects of the cannabis still hold true, the complexity of my situation has escalated in ways I didn't foresee. 2024 Edit: It's never that simple. I can see my autism at play here. You're environment is malluable, changable and dynamic. I'll come back to this at some point

[little-miss-k-posts]

The Ultimate Guide To Credentials And Certifications For Sri Lanka Travel Guides

You are actually in for a delight if you're planning a journey to Sri Lanka. With spectacular yards, abundant history, as well as helpful residents, the island nation is a top place for tourists. However, to get the absolute most away from your Sri Lanka experience, it's regularly practical to have a educated as well as professional traveling guide by your side. But what certifications and also qualifications should you seek? In this post, our experts'll dive into the suggested certifications and also qualifications for Sri Lanka travel quick guides.

Sri Lanka Tour Guide Teacher

To become a Sri Lanka Tourist Guide Teacher, one must pass the tour guide training system as well as fulfill the needed certifications mapped out due to the Sri Lanka Vacationer Panel. The program features training in background, wild animals, tourism, and also lifestyle, to name a few subject matters. Upon effectively completing the plan, the apprentice is granted a permit to work as a tourist guide. A Tour Guide Lecturer, alternatively, is certified to educate others to come to be Sri Lanka tourism resources in the future. They are actually expected to possess complete expertise of Sri Lanka's traveler, record, and also lifestyle internet sites.

Foreign Foreign Language Certifications

Sri Lanka is actually a best visitor destination for people from throughout the planet. As such, a traveling guide's potential to communicate along with guests in their foreign language is actually an important resource. A lot of vacationers really feel more relaxed looking into brand-new areas when they may connect properly along with their guide. To accommodate the unique needs of worldwide travelers, the Sri Lanka Visitor Board advises that traveling manuals possess foreign language credentials, specifically in foreign languages like English, French, German, Chinese, as well as Japanese.

First Aid Training

Even with the best-laid strategies, there's constantly an aspect of changability when it relates to take a trip. Emergency situations can happen any time, and also a certified traveling guide should be prepped to manage all of them. Having first aid training is actually a valuable ability for any sort of travel guide, specifically when doing work in remote control places where health care help might not be quickly on call. The Sri Lanka Tourist Board advises that Sri Lanka travel overviews possess basic 1st aid training.

Social and also Social Understanding

Sri Lanka is actually a culturally varied nation along with a wealthy record and one-of-a-kind customs. As a traveling location, it's important for site visitors to understand and also appreciate the social level of sensitivities of the residents. A skilled trip guide must have thorough expertise of the social as well as social customs of Sri Lankan society. Such know-how assists guide site visitors to note and also enjoy the local personalizeds, religion, and way of living. With a boosting variety of travelers visiting Sri Lanka every year, having a sensible and educated trip guide is vital. Whether you desire to discover more details on trip, you have to sneak a peek at  https://srilanka.gg/ site.

Expert Liability Insurance

Even with the most effective objectives, mishaps may often happen, as well as factors can easily fail in the course of a vacationer's see to Sri Lanka. Having expert liability insurance is actually crucial for trip quick guides, as it gives security certainly not merely for the travelers but also for the guide. In the unlikely event of crashes or mishaps, professional obligation insurance coverage may cover the expenses of medical care, remunerations, or legal fees. All certified trip guides are needed to possess professional liability insurance coverage to run in Sri Lanka.

Final thought:

Sri Lanka is a gorgeous nation with a lot to provide travelers. Opting for the ideal trip guide can easily help make a significant variation in the quality of your experience. As our team've summarized in this particular write-up, a number of certifying qualifications as well as qualifications must be actually looked at when picking a guide for your travels in Sri Lanka. Through deciding on a professional and also knowledgeable guide who meets the recommended credentials, you will definitely appreciate a remarkable as well as risk-free adventure in Sri Lanka.

[anyataylorjoys]

The biggest mistake I hate to watch people continuously make is allowing their desperation to be loved inhibit their ability to love themselves. Stop waiting for someone to choose you and start choosing yourself. 

[ghostlycorvid]

Hm, yes. A bastard lady you should never trust under any circumstances.

Meet Patches

[lunaapudleonem]

Could you explain placements that means having deep personality and feelings?

Yeah, sure 🥰

Placements that can indicate having intense/deep feelings and emotions

Water placements!! Especially Scorpio Moons. You don't want to hurt a Scorpio Moon because they can easily get eaten up by hate (if the moon is negatively aspected and undeveloped ofcourse). Immature individuals with this placement can hate you very passionately, but beware if they love you as well, because their love is no better sometimes - they will be jealous, possesive and even cruel if they feel threaten. On the other hand, we have Cancer Moon who drowns in sadness and sorrow. They feel everything, including other peoples emotions as well. Pisces Moon is in my opinion the least intense out of these three, they are more introspective and closed and they tend to feel other peoples emotions more, but they don't really understand their own emotions. Their emotions are intense often, but the emotions are usually stuck inside of them and the individuals with Pisces Moons have to use imagination/substances/music to escape them.

Leo Moon -> they feel their emotions so intensly that sometimes they physically feel it as well (their chest hurts, their cheeks feel like they are on fire). They can sometimes feel like they are drowning in anger, jealousy and pride.

Aries Moon -> fiesty, aggressive and changable. They can have fixations and obsessions over certain things, individuals, art etc. They love you wholeheartedly but their emotions don't last very long.

Taurus/Aquarius Moon -> since they are fixed signs, it takes them ages to get over things. They develop their feelings slowly, but once they do feel something it's hard for them to stop feeling it.

Sagittarius Moon -> even more changable than Aries Moon, they can go from angry to sad to happy very fast and those quick flashes of emotions can be very strong.

Some aspects that can intensify someone's emotions:

Moon in the 1st/4th/5th/8th house

Moon conjunct/square/opposite Pluto

Moon at 0° degrees

Moon conjunct/square Uranus

Moon square Jupiter

Mars square/opposite Moon

[astroismypassion]

Hi! How are you?

What’s your opinion on having a stellium (moon, mars, Venus) on somebody’s 8th house?

It’s a recurrent thing for me to get attracted to guys who turn out to have Scorpio or 8H placements, and with whom I have 8H synastry overlays... I used to think it’s because Scorpio is over my 8H, but lately I’ve been thinking it may happen because I have zero water placements on my chart. Is that the reason? Is it bad? Am I doomed? 😭

Thank you 💕

Hi,

I'm well, thank you. Hope you are having a sunny day.

Hmm, I think something else is triggering it. Do you perhaps have Pluto Ascendant Aspect or 8th degree in personal planet? Or Vertex in Scorpio or 8th house? There must be something else! It's not just because you lack water placements in your chart. And it's not just your 8th house Scorpio. Something else must be. Or it is in the other person's chart!

Moon in the 8th can be very moody and changable, if you allow it. But if you two keep connection balanced and mutual respect, it's alright. Venus and Mars is not too bad. Venus is okay, jealousy can arise sometime, more so from 8th house person. But Mars, well look at the aspects to Mars to see what is really going on. Mars can sometimes be like... 8th house person wants to keep something private or only want the planet person to know. But planet person finds it so fascinating that they just share that information with those around them!

[ace-pervert]

You okay?

Eh getting there.....kinda....maybe

In truth last wednesday was something of a breaking point for me. I saw people, who i thought were in favor of equality, repeatedly arguing in favor of excluding groups from a certain aspects of society. And it dawned on me that no matter what happened, even seemingly reasonable, people would always find some reason to do so, even if that reason is, well, stupid. Perhaps just as importantly I saw people putting their faith in those in power fir thise same reasons.

I could justify engaging in discourse as long as I believed that equality was possible, because i believed that most people were willing to work towards that by not viewing unchangable traits like gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, skin color, mental ability, etc as the trait that defined them, but instead seeing changable traits like their personality and opinions as defining factors. Since that meant that people that didnt were people that were on some level stubborn , or irrational, and could possibly be convinced to change their opinion. But if most people were never going to be willing to do that, or were willing to go from defining people by changable traits to defining them by unchangable traits, then equality can simply never happen and discourse as a way to change opinions is pointless.

Likewise if people are eager to trust politicians and anyone else in power just because they pander to them, then discourse as a way to find the truth is pointless. As the hard truth is ultimately less acceptable to most than a sweet lie.

Theres more to it, but thats harder to explain.

All that said im at least for now, done with discourse.

[chocolatte-and-despair]

How to raise a child - DREAM SMP fangame

Description: You're playing as a namable protagonist who one day finds a baby at their door step. Knowing the dangers of the Dream Empire, they take in the baby, starting to raise the child as their own.

☆★☆★→        ←☆★☆★

Mechanics that are going to be Implemented:

A gallary for CGs

A "Communicator" system where you can play minigames or contact people on

Relationship status

Possible romance routes with other characters

Management aspect

Choices affect future interactions

Achievements

Multiple endings

canon divergence

Customizable name

Simple battle systems

Inventory system

Completely customized GUI

Quick time events

scrolling credits

changable outfits

quest system

☆★☆★→        ←☆★☆★

The way it will work:

The game will start when Tommy will be just an abandoned baby. Then, the main character will have options on how to raise them. When you're done, you will be able to skip a year and move to the next year.

Every year will have new interactions and one major event.

☆★☆★→        ←☆★☆★

Confirmed characters:

Tommyinnit

Namable protagonist

☆★☆★→        ←☆★☆★

Possible love interests

Quackity

Foolish Gamers

Awesamdude

Slimecicle

Dream

Sapnap

Wilbur Soot

☆★☆★→        ←☆★☆★

possible side characters

Philza

Tubbo

Ranboo

Purpled

Jschlatt

☆★☆★→        ←☆★☆★

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE GO AHEAD AND ASK!

[whitewolfofwinterfell]

Harry Potter re-read: thoughts and ranking my favourite books

In 2020 I completed a full re-read of Harry Potter for the first time since I was a child. It was a rollercoaster experience of highs and lows; excitement, nostalgia, frustration, joy, boredom and everything in between. It took the whole year (in between reading other books) and I hit a wall in the sumer, but I’m glad I persevered and made it to the end. This series will always hold a special place in my heart and as much as I love the movies, there’s so much detail that is missed from them. I didn’t realise just how much my memories of the HP universe had been shaped by the movies until I read the books. I feel like I’ve reconnected with the universe and characters in an authentic way and lots of my opinions have changed as a result. 

Before we get to the ranking, some disclaimers:

If it wasn’t already obvious SPOILERS BELOW FOR THE HARRY POTTER SERIES (at this point I’d be surprised if there’s anybody that needs this warning, but better safe than sorry!).

This ranking is completely subjective and very changable. I love all of the books and I’ve based the ranking solely on my enjoyment of reading them. 

In writing this post I am in no way supporting or endorsing J.K. Rowling’s works. Her ignorance and hatred is intolerable and abhorrent. I discuss this more in the conclusion of this post.

None of the images or gifs featured were made by me, all credit goes to the creators.

7. The Goblet of Fire

One of my favourite movies, but my least favourite book. This one hasn’t aged well for me. It’s too long, there’s much too filler and it has the disadvantage of coming after The Prisoner of Azkaban. I like the idea of the Triwizard Tournament in theory, but the execution is dull. We spend chapters upon chapters upon chapters with Harry and Hermione researching and preparing for the tasks and the tasks themselves are very anti-climatic. It’s also difficult to ignore the fact that the second and third tasks take part underwater and in a maze, and the audience can’t even see what’s going on. Apparently there’s no spell that can allow the audience to see underwater or inside a maze, not even those Muggle inventions called cameras *face palm*

The sub-plot with S.P.E.W was equally dull and didn’t add much to the story. I also found it deeply uncomfortable and upsetting to read about the enslavement of elves and the way that slavery was portrayed in general. The one positive I took from it was seeing Dobby with his crazy jumpers and socks. Dobby is The Best.

(credit to xbirdyblue on DeviantArt for this wonderful fanart image of Dobby)

The reactions to Harry’s name coming out of the Goblet of Fire is what infuriated me most in this book because it doesn’t even make sense. Firstly, does anybody really believe Harry’s capable of overcoming such powerful magic to put his name in? Secondly, why the fudging hell would Harry want to put his name in the Goblet? He’s a 14 year old child who has endured endless trauma; he’s spent most of his life living in an abusive household and the 3 years he’d been at Hogwarts fighting against Voldemort. He doesn’t want fame or glory, he just wants to live a normal, peaceful life and hang out with his best friends. Ron’s reaction is particularly annoying because he of all people should know Harry wouldn’t put his name in the Goblet. I understand why Ron felt that way and I love him but... 

The one thing I did enjoy about this book is the evolution of Harry’s friendships with Ron and Hermione. Hermione is fiercely loyal to Harry and devoted every waking second to helping him succeed in the tasks. Despite Ron’s silly tantrum and their divide through most of the book, their falling out really does cement Harry’s love for Ron. 

"He thought he could have coped with the rest of the school's behaviour if he could just have Ron back as his friend." 

Harry liked Hermione very much, but she just wasn't the same as Ron. There was much less laughter and a lot more hanging round in the library." 

"The thing Harry Potter will miss the most, sir!"

"Harry didn't care, he wouldn't have cared if Karkaroff had given him zero; Ron's indignation on his behalf was worth a hundred points to him." 

What can I say? Ron is Harry’s platonic soul mate. That is all.

Barty Crouch’s escape from Azkaban and transformation into Moody is more cunning and intelligent than it was in the movies - this dude switched places with his mother and left her in Azkaban in his place!! 

Fred and George were by far the highlight of this book for me. Their characters are great in the movies, but in the books they’re just--

Their antics, wit and banter are top notch. I’d actually forgotten that Harry gave his prize winnings from the Tournament to Fred and George, and it seems like such a huge injustice!! This act of kindness and selflessness on Harry’s part is largely why Fred and George are able to set up Wizard Wheezes. It’s a testament to Harry’s love for Fred and George that he gave them his winnings. Harry may not have needed the money but he could’ve done literally anything with it, and chose to give it to the twins because he believed in their ideas and wanted to give them the opportunity they needed. 

GOF was always one of my favourite movies because of this moment: 

Voldemort’s return was one of the most chilling, terrifying and shocking moments for me as a kid. The scene in the graveyard still stands out as being one of my favourite scenes from the movies. In the books, it didn’t have the same impact, unfortunately. In fact, this is what was noticeable to me all the way through reading this book - I like the movie more. The movie cuts out the filler, takes the interesting aspects of the book and does them better.

Overall, despite being at the bottom of my list, I still like GOF. It’s a huge step up in world-building and is an entertaining book with a great premise;  I loved the Golden Trio’s friendship, the appearances from Dobby and Fred and George’s antics. Unfortunately, this book is let down by the sheer amount of filler, the underwhelming execution of the main plot and too much focus on sub-plots like S.P.E.W.

6. The Sorcerer’s Philosopher’s Stone 

It was really difficult to rank Phliosopher’s Stone, because it holds a special place in my heart because it’s where the series began. This book does a great job at introducing Hogwarts and it captures those nostalgic, magical Hogwarts vibes unlike any of the other books. This book is all about the wonder and the joy of Hogwarts, and Hogwarts lives in my heart, so stepping into this magical world with Harry for the first time again was a joy to read.  

I love the time spent in this book on experiencing the smaller wonders of the magical world with Harry - Platform 9 3/4, Hogwarts Express, Diagon Alley, Ollivanders, the Sorting Hat, Great Hall feasts, ghosts etc. It’s exciting and fun to read about, and truly a gem of a book for children.

Seeing Harry go from living in a cupboard and suffering abuse and neglect to an incredible world full of wonder and people who want to get to know him and show him kindness was a joy to read. I love the development of Harry, Ron and Hermione’s friendship and how, despite how short the book is, it’s developed properly. Their friendship with Hermione doesn’t happen overnight, but by the end there’s a genuine bond and trust between them. 

But of course, as the first book in the series, the plot is lacking and the writing isn’t at its strongest. Also, despite how short it is I did feel a little bored reading the second half. It’s a great entry to the series and does a wonderful job at establishing the world, main trio and other characters, but in the grander scheme of the series it’s quite bland a forgettable. 

5. The Deathly Hallows

Now this one came as a big surprise to me, because before my re-read I considered The Deathly Hallows to be my favourite book, but I just didn’t enjoy it this time around. The first 50-60% of this book got me like: 

I was bored as hell. The travelling, the hunting for Horcruxes, Dumbledore’s backstory, the bickering between Harry, Ron and Hermione...it was tiresome. Fortunately, amongst that there were a lot of isolated things that I enjoyed. 

Firstly, I adore the Tale of the Three Brothers, it’s interesting and I love the depiction of it in the movies - it’s just so cool!

Secondly, Ron and Hermione are very cute in this book, and for the first time I  appreciated them as a romantic ship. 

Thirdly, Harry looking through Sirius’ room and finding a letter from Lily broke my heart. This moment is so touching and completely unexpected, since I’d forgotten about it over the years. 

(credit to alessiatrunifo for this stunning fanart)

Fourthly, LUNA LOVEGOOD. You know what? I have no qualms in saying Luna is one of my new favourite characters since my re-read. I always liked her, but she never stood out to me, and that’s changed. It’s not just that she’s unique and wacky, but that she’s fiercely independent, moral, kind and loyal. Luna has such a strong sense of who she is and she doesn’t let anyone or anything contradict that. 

Can I also admit that I might slightly ship Harry and Luna now? 🙊 Luna seeing through Harry’s disguise as “Barney Weasley” based on his facial expressions alone and their reactions to the possibility of the other being in danger touched my heart. 

"'She will [survive],' said Harry. He could not bear to contemplate the alternative. 'She's tough Luna, much tougher than you'd think. She's probably teaching all the inmates about Wrackspurts and Nargles.'" 

"Oh, no, I didn't want you to be caught!" 

They’re cute, okay?

Finally, Kreacher! This was perhaps one of the biggest surprises from reading this book, because I’d completely forgotten about Kreacher’s story. And boy, oh, boy did this pull on my heartstrings. Kreacher has one of the most tragic backstories in the HP universe and he absolutely deserves the redemption he got in this book. I loved seeing him develop a genine relationship with Harry, Ron and Hermione, and the fact that they never went back for him made me so sad. Poor Kreacher!

I enjoyed all of these elements of the first half of the book, and then I got to The Sacking of Severus Snape and it was like:

This is where the book finally took off for me (unfortunately, it took 30 chapters to get there) and as soon as Harry, Ron and Hermione are back in Hogwarts I couldn’t put it down. There are so many brilliant moments and things I loved that all I can really do is bullet point them:

The character reunions.

Percy finally redeeming himself!!!!

McGonnagal being the most badass to ever badass.

Neville Longbottom owns my heart ❤❤❤

Neville's grandmother's response to finding out Neville was fighting in the battle - "Naturally [he is]. Excuse me, I must go and assist him." 

Ron and Hermione's first kiss!! and Harry’s reaction to it - "Is this the moment? OI! There's a war going on here!"

Percy handing in his resignation whilst Stupefy-ing his boss - "Hello, Minister! Did I mention I'm resigning?"

The Forest Again was such an emotional chapter. It got me good.

"You'll stay with me?" "Until the very end." 😭

"Harry, you wonderful boy. You brave, brave man."

"Perhaps those who are best suited to power are those who have never sought it. Those, who, like you, have leadership thrust upon them, and take up the mantle because they must, and find to their own surprise that they wear it well."

Did I mention that Neville is bloomin' amazing?

Kreacher!!!!!! "Fight! Fight! Fight for my master, defender of the house-elves! Fight the Dark Lord in the name of brave Regalus! Fight!"

Reading The Flaw in the Plan was soooo much more satisfying than watching it play out on-screen in the movie. 

In many ways DH has some of the best, most satisfying moments of any of the books. It’s a strong conclusion to the series and there’s so much that I loved about it; so many memorable and emotional moments (Dobby and Fred’s deaths still hit hard 20 years later). Unfortunately, it was dragged down by the first half of the book and the epilogue. I tried so hard to keep an open mind about the epilogue, but the truth is it still BLOWS. And the more time that passes the more I resent the decisions that were made about character deaths. I understand that the stakes were high and we needed to lose characters close to our hearts but Fred?? Dobby??? Remus??? NO! Just no, okay? I don’t accept that. 

4. The Order of the Phoenix

Now, The Order of the Phoenix had similar issues as DH for me - it had a very slow start but a great ending. I did take a couple of months break in the middle of reading this one and distinctly remember slogging my way through the first half and devouring the second half. 

I’ve made no secret over the years that Sirius and Remus are two of favourite HP characters, so I expected to enjoy OOTP a lot for that reason. I did really enjoy all the smatterings of Sirius and Remus we go throughout this book. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough for me. This book really highlighted for me how limited Harry’s POV was, because I wanted more of an insight into the Order but Harry was kept in the dark the entire time which was frustrating. 

One of the main character highlights of this book is the legend Minverva McGonnagal. Her sass, strength and determination to defend Hogwarts and its students against Dolores is astounding. Here are some of my favourite McGonnagal moments:

"Well, usually when a person shakes their head they mean 'no.'"

"Can I offer you a cough drop, Dolores?"

"I should have made my meaning plainer. [Harry] has achieved high marks in all Defence Against the Dark Arts tests set by a compotent teacher."

Defending Hagrid against Umbridge.

And of course:

(Still can’t believe the movie robbed us of this!)

Time for a less popular opinion - I loved Harry in this book. In general, this book made me feel very protective of Harry, because Harry is bloomin’ incredible and deserves so much better than what he gets in this book. He’s always had a bad rep in OOTP for being an annoying, angsty teenager, but in my opinion, this is Harry at his most relatable and lovable. After everything Harry went through, he’s entitled to be angry with the world. He endured everything that he did and took the responsibility of the world onto his shoulders with little complaint, and in OOTP he reaches breaking point. Honestly, I’m surprised it didn’t happen sooner. The adults in Harry’s life are glaringly irresponsible in this book. Not only do they force him back to the Dursley’s after the hugely traumatic events of GOF based on some bull about “blood magic”, but they purposefully hide the truth from him even though that puts him at greater risk and adds to his emotional distress. Everyone around Harry expects him to be mature and act like an adult when he’s fighting against the darkest wizard of all time, yet don’t give him the courtesy or respect of telling him the truth about significant things that impact him and the people he loves. Sirius os the only person that refuses to belittle Harry, but in some ways, his behaviour is just as damaging as those that tried to shelter Harry from the truth, because he expects too much of Harry and projects James’ personality onto him. The adults around Harry fail him to such an extent in this book that he establishes the DA because he can’t even rely on the adults around him to keep him and his friends safe. Harry’s emotions in this book aren’t only understandable, but justified and I felt an even deeper connection to him as a result. His vulnerability shows his strength and courage more than ever before. This is the point where he goes from the Chosen One to a true champion, because even when he reaches rock bottom and wants to give up, he doesn’t walk away. I love Harry so much.

The Department of Mysteries is by far one of my favourite sections from any of the books. I love the friendship dynamics, Luna, Neville and Ginny are given the chance to really shine, the stakes are high, the action is great and despite the trauma of Sirius’ death, that moment is so hard-hitting and memorable. This section of the book just took it to a new level for me. It was really great.

The emotion of Sirius’ death was captured so perfectly, and is such a huge turning point for Harry. Like I said above, choosing to go on even after losing Sirius proves that Harry is a true hero; that he isn’t just doing what he was doing out of obligation or has been told to but because he believes in doing the right thing. I best move on before I continue to speak about how amazing Harry James Potter is.

Now we come to Neville. Can you believe that I’d actually forgot the details of Neville being the Chosen One? It was a blast learning about that again and how he’s connected to the prophecy. I also loved that we got to see his family and not just be told about it via dialogue. Neville is by far one of the most loveable and interesting minor characters in the series. He has so many great moments in books 1-4, but he really shines in OOTP.

The more I write about this book, the more I find things to love. It’s just a shame that the first half lets it down, because overall, I think there’s a lot of great material here in terms of plot and character development.

3. The Chamber of Secrets

I know that The Chamber of Secrets is generally ranked low amongst most fans, but I love it. At this point, the books were more simplistic and just fun, and I like that. I also have to acknowledge that I have a deep affinity for the COS movie - I grew up watching it over and over, and of all the movies it’s still the one I know best and always come back to (still can’t believe the “Why couldn’t it be follow the butterflies line?” wasn’t even in the books!)

I love all of the different elements in this book:

Dobby

The Burrow

The flying car

Whomping Willow

Moaning Myrtle 

This idiot

Gilderoy Lockhart is one of my favourite antagonists in the entire series, because he isn’t intentionally bad, he’s just an arrogant fool. His primary concern is his image and reputation and he was willing to go to any lengths to maintain it. He’s a bad person in a subtle and hilarious way. 

Generally speaking, there are too many fun and entertaining moments to count in this book. I love the childish-ness of this book in comparison to the darker tone the series adopts from POA onwards. For me, COS still has the silliness and merriment that I really associate HP with. Entertainment value aside, the plot in COS is actually well executed.

As a short, concise and effective plot, Tom Riddle’s diary and the Chamber of Secrets works incredibly well. I liked the mystery and suspense of the culprit of the Muggle born attacks, and the big moments connected to it - finding out that Hagrid might be the perpetrator, Ginny being possessed by Voldemort, Hermione being petrified, Harry speaking Parceltongue. The stakes are high and this plot is strong enough to keep momentum going between the more light hearted moments.

Overall, COS is a quick, easy and fun read. It may not be the best written or complex book in the series, but I’m a huge advocate for it. Not only is it highly entertaining, but it also introduced a lot of great and important aspects to the series (Horcruxes, Tom Riddle being the heir of Slytherin, Harry being connected to Voldemort, polyjuice potion and Dobby), and built very well on what was established in PS. 

2. The Half Blood Prince

The biggest surprise of this re-read was how much I bloomin’ loved Half Blood Prince. It has the perfect balance of plot, character development, mystery, humour and emotion. Out of the bigger books in the series, this was the one I finished the fastest (2 days), because it was quite literally un-put-downable (yes, that’s a word). 

First, let’s talk about the plot, because wow, it’s a good ‘un. In my opinion, it’s the strongest and best written plot from any of the books. There’s Voldemort’s backstory, the development of Harry and Dumbledore’s relationship, Snape’s backstory, the mystery of the Half Blood Prince, Harry’s rivalry/suspicion of Malfoy, hunting Horcruxes and Dumbledore’s death. This book feels like an incredible pay-off for things that have been built up in the previous 5 books. We learn so much about certain characters - Dumbledore, Snape, Malfoy, Voldemort, Ginny - and regardless of whether I liked those characters or not, I was invested. The clues that Snape is the Half Blood Prince are cleverly interwoven within the narrative and the mystery keeps you guessing, even when you know who it is. 

The last part of this book from Chapter 26 onwards was just explosive. Although I knew what was coming, I was surprised at the level of emotion I felt when Dumbledore and Harry were in the cave and when Dumbledore died. My heart was racing and I had tears in my eyes. 

This book just doesn’t let up for a second. If we aren’t learning more about Voldemort, we’re following Draco to see what he’s up to or unravelling mysteries around the Half Blood Prince or trying to get information from Slughorn about horcruxes. Even the down time is enjoyable to read in this book (Chapter 9 was one of my favourite chapters to read) and the friendships and banter are stellar. 

In terms of character development, this is also one of the strongest books. Dumbledore is finally developed beyond the omnipotent Gandalf-esque archetype and we learn bout his past and his flaws.

"I have already proven to you, I make mistakes like the next man. In fact, being - forgive me - rather cleverer than most men, my mistakes tend to be correspondingly huger." 

The focus on Dumbledore also sets it up for his death, and you know what? It works. If we’d lost Dumbledore prior to HBP, I would’ve been shocked and upset, but losing him at this point hurts that much more because we learn so much more about him, see how important he is to Harry and how vital his guidance is in defeating Voldemort. Dumbledore’s death feels like all hope is lost, and so soon after losing Sirius it feels even harsher.

Insight into Snape’s back-story finally explains some of his motivations and actions (though it does not condone them).

Although Voldemort’s backstory doesn’t necessarily add to our understanding of him, it’s interesting to see how he came into the world, and learn about his family background. What this demonstrated most to me is that a lot of the time there is no reason for evil. Voldemort didn’t really have any motivations for what he did. Sure, he didn’t have the perfect, happy childhood but there isn’t really enough substance there to try to explain how or why he became the monster that he did. 

More could’ve been done with Malfoy, but I enjoyed him having a bigger presence in this book and how the idea that family shapes who we are isn’t always true. Draco does what is expected of him from his family, but ultimately, he has his own conscience and inner turmoil that forces him to question things.

As for Harry...he goes to a dark place in this book. OOTP has always been cpnsidered as the “angsty Harry”, but HBP takes Harry to new places. Harry feels more ruthless, reckless and determined in this book than any other. There’s an underlying sense of apathy that lingers from Sirius’ death. He obsesses about his mission to extract the memory from Slughorn and his lessons with Dumbledore, and fixates on his hatred for Draco and Snape. The fact that Harry uses Sectumsempra on Draco is honestly the most alarming thing that Harry does because it shows how dark a place Harry has gone to. He knows the spell is going to inflict serious harm and yet he uses it anyway. 

Generally, Harry abuses the potions book and manipulates, lies and takes advantage of almost everyone around him. I really see his dependency on that book and his choice to exploit it for his own benefit as adverse effects of the grief and trauma he endured. For once, he has the upper hand and I’d even argue that despite the Half Blood Prince being anonymous stranger to him, he relies on him as a mentor or parental figure. Yet despite it being a dark book for Harry, he also seems to get some genuine peace with Ginny. Although I’m not a Hinny shipper, it was so nice to see Harry experience some normality and contentment. No matter what he goes through, he remains kind hearted. I actually feel like this book more than any other emphasises that point - Harry could just as easily have gone down the same path as Vodlemort, but he made a choice not to.

“In spite of all the temptation you have endured, all the suffering, you remain pure of heart, just as pure as you were at the age of eleven, when you stared into a mirror that reflected your hears desire and it showed you the only way to thwart Lord Voldement, and not immortality or riches. Harry, have you any idea how few wizards could have seen what you saw in the mirror?" 

Plot and character development aside, the comedy in this book is gold and I appreciate the movie (and Daniel Radcliffe) for maximising on that to create some of the best and funniest scenes in the movie franchise. Chapter 18 in particular was hilarious.

Now I have to speak about one of my favourite moments from this book:

Since GoF, Fleur was grossly mistreated and discriminated against by the Weasley’s (Molly and Ginny in particular). The way they treated her was sexist and xenophobic pure and simple. They had no reason to dislike her and all of their reasons seemed to be built on some flimsy notion that she was full of herself (why, just because she was beautiful? and even if she was, what’s wrong with confidence?!) and that she was annoying and loud because she was French. Seeing Fleur finally stand up to their bigotry was fantastic. It’s a moment I’d been waiting for for so long and I’m so glad we got it, because frankly, Molly and Ginny’s beahviour towards Fleur needed to be addressed because it was disgusting.

Overall, HBP demonstrates the strengths of HP as a series. In comparison to the other books, I don’t really have anything to crituqe I enjoyed all of it from beginning to end, which is why it almost took the top spot in this ranking.

1. The Prisoner of Azkaban

It was really close between first and second place, but Prisoner of Azkaban just managed it. This is where the HP series truly takes off and starts to shine. In comparison to what we got in PS and COS it’s richer - the plot is complex, the world building is more developed, the characters are great and it’s generally an entertaining read but with added complexity in comparison to its predecessors.

I like that POA allows us to spend so much time in Hogwarts hanging out, but that the plot comes to the forefront more. We’re all so familiar with HP at this point that it’s easy to forget the impact the plot-twists must’ve punched the first time we read them. But for me, it’d been so long since I’d read the series, that it really was like reading them for the first time and POA was one of the ones that surprised me at various points.

I’d forgot details like:

The Shrieking Shack got its name and reputation because Lupin locked himself up there during transformations; The Whomping Willow was planted to hide the secret passage to the Shrieking Shack and prevent Lupin from escaping and hurting people in his werewolf form

Crookshanks was Sirius’ ally

Sirius escaped Azkaban in his dog form

Unsurprisingly, Remus and Sirius were the highlight of this book for me. I know it’s basic but I really love them and the two of them having such a focus in this book really makes it.

Remus truly shines in this book. He’s a lovable character – a great teacher, a supportive mentor and a loyal friend. His tragic backstory only adds to his character. Snape tries to villainise Remus for being a werewolf, but the reality is that he’s a victim. He was an innocent child that was bitten by a vicious, cruel monster and has to live with the consequences of that for the rest of his life. He carries so much self-loathing, fear and insecurity because of what he is and he doesn’t deserve it. Dumbledore is the only one that separates the man from the wolf and takes Remus on his merits. He knows that Remus is a genuinely good person and a talented teacher, and he’s willing to make the necessary adjustments to enable Remus equal opportunity. Not only does it benefit Remus for Dumbledore to do this, but the students too, because let’s face it, Remus is a bloody damn good teacher.

Remus is arguably the most decent and responsible adult character in the entire HP universe. He respects Harry’s agency but also acknowledges that he’s still a child that needs protection and guidance. Instead of lying to Harry or throwing him into dangerous situations, he does perhaps the most helpful thing any adult ever does for Harry – he teaches him how to defend himself. I love that Lupin and Harry’s relationship in this book foreshadows the formation of the DA in OOTP; Lupin is the only one that teaches Harry practical DATDA skills and in the absence of Lupin as a teacher, Harry then takes on that role as a mentor and provides his friends with the skills to defend themselves. 

Now we come to Sirius. Introducing Sirius as the enemy – a dangerously, mad criminal who is conspiring with Voldemort and wants Harry dead – and then revealing him to be the complete opposite was genius. Part of me wished I could completely forget so that I could experience the utter shock of finding that out for the first time. The fact that Harry saw his parents in the Mirror of Erised in PS and then finds Sirius and Lupin in this book touches my heart. Sirius is a direct link to Harry’s parents unlike anything he’s ever had. Although on the surface, their bond develops too quickly, considering that Harry is 13 years old and all he wants more than anything is to have parents and/or a connection to his parents, his quick attachment to Sirius makes sense. The thought of living with Sirius makes Harry so happy that he used it to power his patronus!!! Likewise, Sirius clings to Harry knowing that he’s the son of his best friends. He spent the entirety of his time in Azkaban knowing Harry was still out there somewhere without James and Lily and in danger from Voldemort. Immediately, Sirius provides Harry with the type of comfort about his parents that he’s never received before.

“You think the dead we have loved ever truly leave us? You think that we don't recall them more clearly than ever in times of great trouble? Your father is alive in you, Harry, and shows himself most plainly when you have need of him. How else could you produce that particular Patronus? Prongs rode again last night.”

One of the highlights of this book is the scene where Snape catches Harry with the Marauders Map. That quote is just legendary.

"Mr Moony presents his compliments to Professor Snape, and begs him to keep his abnormally large nose out of other people's business. Mr Prongs agrees with Mr Moony, and would like to add that Professor Snape is an ugly git. Mr Padfoot would like to register his astonishment that an idiot like that ever became a Professor. Mr Wormtail bids Professor Snape good day, and advises him to wash his hair, the slimeball."

Admittedly, the time travel in this book is problematic as hell. I’m grateful that Harry and Hermione were able to save Buckbeak and Sirius due to time travel, but if it was up to me, I’d remove time travel from the universe completely. It doesn’t fit, it’s too complicated and creates too many issues. McGonnagal condones the use of time travel for Hermione to attend extra lessons and yet won’t use it to tackle real, important problems, like I don’t know, war, death, disease, disasters etc. Not to mention the entire Voldemort problem and Harry becoming the Chosen One could’ve been resolved by going back to the night of James and Lily’s deaths.

One of my favourite elements of this book was seeing Ron and Hermione’s friendship with Hagrid. A lot of emphasis is placed on Harry’s friendship with Hagrid. but this book shows how devoted Ron and Hermione are to Hagrid. They both spend a lot of their time comforting him and helping him to prepare for Buckbeak’s trial.

This book has a great balance – it’s still on the shorter side but it doesn’t suffer for it. and here’s plenty of plot and character development. Ironically, whilst HBP is my favourite because of the emphasis on the main plot, POA is my favourite because it takes a break from Voldemort. It’s refreshing to take a step away from Voldemort and put the focus onto a new villain in Sirius, and then for the twist to be revealed that he’s not actually a villain but Harry’s godfather. The time-turner is the biggest draw-back in this book, but I can overlook that because there’s so much more to love in this book. It’s definitely the most re-readable book in terms of the length and plot. This book is a happy medium which incorporates the strengths from all of the other books in a smaller package than HBP - it’s fun but expands on the universe, introduces brilliant new characters and has a depth and complexity that the first two lack whilst not having the filler that books 4-7 have.  

Conclusion

It’s hard to read these books without it being mingled with childhood nostalgia, so that undoubtedly informed my ranking. Despite being a children's series, the books still hold up reading them as an adult. I enjoyed rediscovering the smaller details I’d forgotten over the years and feel much closer to the universe as a result. The characters and their dynamics are by far my favourite thing about HP. I also enjoy the whimsical magic and how this is offset against the darker tone later in the series. However, in light of JKR’s hateful rhetoric, my attention was drawn to the problematic elements of the books such as the portrayal of slavery in addition to: 

Lack of major/well-written characters of color

Anti-semitic caricature of goblin bankers

Cho Chang’s name (which many consider offensive), stereotypical placement in Ravenclaw (the smart house) while being the only East-Asian character in the books, and she functions almost exclusively as a love interest

Ableism all-around

Nagini, an evil snake who gets chopped in half, is actually an Asian woman according to Fantastic Beasts, making her the second of two named East Asian characters in the franchise

“Magic in North America,” a history of magic in North America published on Pottermore that grossly misappropriates and misconstrues Native American cultures

Anthony Goldstein, retconned token Jewish character, also stereotypically named

General stereotypical naming of non-Anglo-Saxon characters

Remus Lupin’s werewolf status as an AIDS metaphor while depicting his condition as making him monstrous, and the man who bit him goes around biting people for kicks

Declaring that Dumbledore is gay with exactly 0 in-canon references, and no other LGBTQ+ representation  (article credit: Separating Art from Artist - Thoughts on J.K. Rowling written by Melina List on Medium)

This is the last time I will read these books, partly because I’ve outgrown them, but mostly because I can’t, without a heavy conscience ignore the relationship between JKR’s hateful views and her works. If you want to learn more about this, I’d recommend checking out a post from my_weird_bookish_heart on Instagram which explains why we couldn’t and shouldn’t ignore the problems in these books by adopting a “art is separate from the artist” mentality (if you would like the link to this please message me and I’l be happy to share it. We can all still love and enjoy HP, but we all have a moral duty to acknowledge and take responsibility for this and not feign ignorance. Views like JKR’s directly harm individuals and groups, not just in the trans community but also the Jewish and LGBTQIA+ communities and people of colour. I can’t and won’t accept that in silence. No matter how special HP was to me as a child, the lives of real humans are unquestionably more important.

Thank you for reading.

[rosesastrology]

I love your synastry interpretations. What are your thoughts on moon trine Uranus and Venus conjunct Jupiter? Thank you!

Moon trine Uranus: You light me up.

This connection is almost electric and these two are deeply connected. There's a sense of authentic, spontaneous and unpredictable love. The connection and encounters will spark many emotions and leave both full- emotionally they'll be sparked to the max. The feelings tend to be very deep, rather than lighthearted and this can cause many ups and downs. The Uranus person is often more dominant, changable and sure of what they want. The Uranus person is not the type to force a connection, they can get somewhat bored by the nature of the Moon which will make them do something spontaneous. The Moon person is far more observant of the Uranus person's actions. This connection runs deep, is magnetic and electric. The relationship often creates a space where the partners will be able to be together without judgement. The encounter is likely to be sudden, the relationship often moves quickly. The moon person feels emotionally and mentally stimulated by the Uranus person. Excitement and general pleasurable meetings result from this connection- there's often sexual tension here as well. The Uranus person will change the Moon person in a way, and may be the more "detached" force- nonetheless, the Moon person will spark feelings in the Uranus person. Things don't get dull because of this aspect, both parties encourage each other's independence and allow each other a free space for emotional expression without judgement. The relationship is bound to see sudden changes, unless Saturn aspects lower these possibilities.

Venus conjunct Jupiter: I want to experience it all with you.

In this relationship, empowerment is key. Jupiter is generally seen as a benefic, optimistic and lucky person, but in my experience I see Jupiter more as an empowering person. Jupiter empowers the Venus person and sees the best in them. Jupiter sees and feels their possibilities, Jupiter wants to help the Venus person grow in life and keep them around. Jupiter brings experiences for growth, both good and bad. At the same time, the Venus person is attracted to Jupiter's philosophical ways, to their humor and higher knowledge. The Venus person feels in harmony and feels as though their beliefs are respected. Jupiter feels loved and appreciated immensely by the Venus person and wants to know everything about them because that's what Jupiter does- search for meaning. This may be a long distance relationship because Jupiter governs over foreign travel and culture. If not, Jupiter here brings such prosperity to the Venus person- whether physically or mentally. This is an amazing aspect because Jupiter and Venus are both planets that rule over healing, this relationship is bound to bring many lessons with it and have a healing quality.

[davids69811]

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The Different Styles of Wedding Event Digital Photography Available to the Couple Today

Usually, your wedding celebration time is actually one of the very most crucial breakthroughs in your life. Whoever you are as well as what ever you like there is actually a New Orleans wedding celebration digital photographer out certainly there for you.  Wedding Photographer New Orleans 92027

wedding celebration digital photography New Orleans happen in several different characters, types and sizes. Some shoot in merely one certain design as well as there are actually freelance photographers that shoot in a wide array of various designs. At that point our company possess the actual trailblazers that make their personal design.

The absolute most well-known styles of wedding digital photography in today's market are actually as adheres to:

- Photojournalistic

- Traditional

- Illustrative

Lets check out at each of these ...

Photojournalistic

Wedding ceremony photojournalism is actually pointed out to appeal to the new bride and bridegroom that need a set of unique photos made to "inform a story" or even narrate their wedding celebration time. New Orleans Wedding photojournalism has come to be a really well-liked design of wedding celebration digital photography as well as is the art of capturing instants unobtrusively.

Wedding celebration photographer's reply to activities as they unravel, they do certainly not adjust or generate celebrations. The resulting pictures as a result can easily be actually unforeseeable (as is lifestyle uncertain), some consider this changability as a setback using this particular type. Individually I experience its own certainly not a setback it's the lovely aspect of the design, it truly is a document of your day. The goal of Wedding Photojournalism is to tell the one-of-a-kind tale of your wedding. Wedding event Photojournalism catches moments instead than postures, documenting the emotional states as well as energy around the entire celebration. The images impart genuine feeling and grab the tale of your day as it unfurls naturally.

Finest on the planet: Well for me its Jeff Ascough but a lot of freelance photographers will say Dennis Reggie. Dennis is the father of this design.

Conventional

Conventional wedding ceremony photography is a photographic type that is a collection of artificial presented or 'put together' pictures, normally of the wedding ceremony celebration as well as the bride and groom' family members. Standard wedding photographers have a tendency to observe a 'try list'. Lighting fixtures and histories are actually snugly managed due to the digital photographer resulting in well subjected photos. The negative aspects of Traditional wedding digital photography could possibly be actually problems like, the volume of time the Bride and also Groom invest getting their picture taken. Pictures can look aesthetically pleasing however stiff as a result of their contrived and stationary attribute and also expected.

The advantage of conventional photography is that you end up a set of professional pictures of your family members and liked ones.

Traditional wedding digital photography still has it is actually place in the modern photography globe it is actually being actually pressed apart by even more illustratory and also photographer styles of capturing. You see more typical freelance photographers that are actually older and have remained in the field a very long time and also have not modified their means or even you will view it in the reduced end amateurs as it is any type of quick and easy type of shooting that performs certainly not take much artistic input. Be actually knowledgeable it still takes ability thus don't be actually assuming any person can easily perform it properly.

You perhaps do not desire to rely as well intensely on professional portraiture, nevertheless, or you will certainly lose out on a great deal of the energy, enthusiasm, and also uncooked feeling surrounding your wedding ceremony. The majority of married couples yearn for to see to it to consist of some honest, photojournalistic photography in their wedding cds along with the official tries.

Best around the world: Well for me its Monte Zucker.

Illustratory

Wedding Photographers who fire wedding celebrations in the Illustrative style, think in terms of design elements by positioning their topics in settings of interesting composition as well as backgrounds. This digital photography is typically an artistic person who adores layout as well as factors of colour and structure. The freelance photographer offers path to their subject but they are actually likewise urged to interact. This leads to a more casual feel. Illustratory wedding event photography is stated to emphasize the freelance photographer's 'talented' compositional and also artistic abilities rather than simply grabbing a set of seconds.

Do you recognize what your wedding event photography deal should include? Listed here are actually points to don't forget when evaluating your wedding ceremony digital photography contract.

Summarize the Day's Details

See to it that your wedding digital photography arrangement is actually very details regarding the details of your special day. It must feature the particular size of your time that the freelance photographer are going to be actually there, if the professional photographer is actually coming alone, has a second photographer including, or is actually delivering an aide. Being sure that the hourly dedication is lucid in the arrangement will ensure you possess your wedding celebration digital photographer certainly there to deal with ALL of your memories, and also certainly not one moment much less.

Area, Right Time

If you know where you are acquiring wed at the time of scheduling along with your wedding ceremony freelance photographer, bring in sure to include the particular information of when and where inside the arrangement. Make sure the wedding event digital photography arrangement has the particulars, consisting of handles, telephone varieties, and a feasible call name as well as number for an individual working with at the venue.

What Your Wedding Photography Package Includes

If any spot at all, this is actually the spot within the wedding celebration photography arrangement where there need to be actually NO concerns or complication! This includes the length of opportunity the wedding celebration freelance photographer is committed to, the variety of individuals the professional photographer is taking, how several final wedding pictures you are actually counted on to get, the duration of opportunity it will definitely take for you to obtain your wedding celebration photos, as well as your civil liberties as the new bride and also groom to republish and also disperse your wedding ceremony pictures.

When To Pull Out Your Pocketbook

Many wedding event digital photographers have a certain timetable for when they count on repayment for their companies. Some demand a fifty% down payment et cetera upon the date of the event. Some wedding event professional photographers want the complete payment up face. Others might specify up a layaway plan with you. Ensure you understand particular settlement as a result of times in your wedding event photography deal. Check out the small print. Some wedding photographers might schedule someone else for your wedding ceremony day if you carry out certainly not pay for in a timely manner.

In addition, because a wedding celebration freelance photographer is dedicating a whole entire time to shooting your wedding event and your activities, the photographer and his or her aides will definitely require to be actually supplied! A lot of wedding ceremony digital photography contracts feature an arrangement of what a freelance photographer is actually supplied at your wedding ceremony.

Must-Have Wedding Photos

Toss all of them into the contract so that there is actually no complication or even slipup if there are actually particular shots you desire throughout your wedding time. Several photographers are going to team up with you before your time to include the photographes you wish to the expert go checklist. Nonetheless, it is actually always a good idea to cover your tracks and place these right into the wedding digital photography deal too, ensuring you get your beloved images.

Cover Your Bases

Know what will take place in instance your wedding event photographer possesses an urgent or even comes to be unwell the amount of time of your wedding. Will she or he choose another person to fire? Will he or even she come shoot your wedding in any case? That will exist to record your moments? The wedding event photography agreement must have a clause in it explaining the options in the event an emergency ought to arise.

Think It Over

Hang around very carefully reviewing the wedding ceremony digital photography arrangement, covering it along with your fiancé, as well as being sure that you recognize and allow every single little bit of what is actually on that paper. This will certainly offer you the peace of mind you ought to have when booking your wedding ceremony freelance photographer, recognizing that this individual is going to be certainly there to catch every tear, every laugh, every caress, as well as every kiss of your wedding.

The phrase wedding photography, through the way, refers to the photo activity that takes location in the past, during and straight after wedding event events. Such photography is looked at an indispensable component of the wedding ceremony; extremely a lot like the white garment, the train and the wedding ceremony pie.

Currently one result that digital photography has had on wedding event photography is actually that there is actually no much longer a lot panic when the tapped the services of digital photographer performs certainly not show up. If on a wedding celebration time the hired digital photographer fell short to present up, panic was certain to specify in. It was not unheard of wedding ceremonies even being held off on that account merely; for exactly how could the pair claim they were actually wedded when there was actually no photographic proof for the simple fact?

Thanks to digital photography, everybody is now a freelance photographer. Also numerous modern phones included digital electronic cameras. If the tapped the services of freelance photographer falls short to present up, that is his reduction. Someone will definitely take their digital camera (or even their phone), and also start tape-recording the occasion for descendants. No necessity for panic whatsoever.

Definitely, cash-constrained married couples are deciding certainly not to hire a professional photographer for their wedding ceremonies. Instead, among the friends in appearance, that has the sense to make use of an electronic camera well is actually appointed the duty of clicking at one of the most critical instants. Better still, pair of different close friends are actually appointed the activity, in order that in the event that one does not get it right the various other one absolutely will.

Chatting of 'getting it straight,' the second result of electronic photography on wedding photography is that it has actually lowered the likelihoods where wedding pictures acquired 'gotten rid of' (overexposed) or even otherwise messed up. The precursor to digital photography, which was actually film-based digital photography made use of to be actually available to so numerous difficulties.

The third impact of electronic photography on wedding photography is that it has created it cheaper. The freelance photographer using the digital picture actually simply possesses to love losing cost on his cam. Absolutely nothing else acquires 'consumed' and also the entire thing is actually very affordable. Today review this with traditional digital photography - where there was constantly the price of the film to emulate (or at the very least the threat of operating out of movie where the price was certainly not an issue) - and you observe simply exactly how a lot of an improvement electronic photography is.

The amount of performs specialist digital photography cost for your wedding event? Know just how to prepare a practical digital photography spending plan along with this guide to wedding ceremony photography costs and rates.

The Going Rate for Professional Photography.

When identifying your wedding ceremony digital photography budget plan, consider that you get what you purchase. You need to anticipate to devote a minimum of $1000 on having a specialist wedding ceremony digital photographer document your wedding ceremony (certainly not including the actual prints and various other additionals). Prices, obviously, will differ depending on capability amount, knowledge and geographic area (region locations are typically considerably greater). The measurements of your wedding can easily also impact the digital photography price, as added visitors may raise the quantity of your time that the professional photographer need to devote at your activity. For instance, for an activity of lower than 100 visitors, a wedding ceremony digital photographer are going to normally devote four-six hours of your time. For a larger wedding event of 300 or even more attendees, a professional photographer might must spend eight-ten hrs at work.

Comparing Photographer Rates.

Many wedding ceremony photographers will give standard prices details over the phone or even on their sites, therefore you may use a preliminary online hunt or even phone telephone call as your 1st step towards finding a freelance photographer that suits your spending plan. Establish what alternatives and also solutions you wish first, at that point match up professional photographers' costs for giving those certain options to determine which specialist works within your wedding event photography budget plan.

It is necessary that Wedding Photographers in Toronto concern supply services with the current digital photography devices. A wedding digital photography provider is determined through numerous factors, elements that feature fantastic solution and also assistance, before the wedding celebration, in the course of the wedding event celebration as well as after the wedding celebration. There are terrific rates and packages provided through the wedding event photography company. The bundles that are delivered identify the manner in which you are going to select a wedding event photography firm having said that, one more very necessary aspect to look at is actually the form of equipment that a wedding digital photography firm in Toronto uses.

Using the most recent modern technology and also equipment illustrates the status symbol of a wedding event photography business. The cause that is actually identifies it coming from several various other business that they are actually taking on in Toronto is given that along with numerous photography agencies shooting wedding ceremony in Toronto, it is a large option to take full advantage of off, the attitude that a lot of firms have it to leap in promptly as well as hustle couple to become by enticing them at wedding ceremony series, the world wide web and through handing out leaflets on automobiles in banquet hall car park. Deciding on to have the most current in digital photography cam equipment and also the most up-to-date in software program innovation to modify the wedding images splits up a Toronto wedding ceremony photography organization from a pack of firms that simply feel that all that is actually required is the capability and a camera to take a picture.

Do not get us incorrect, there is a great deal that is demanded in taking a suitable photo, points like the suitable angles of an account, suitable lighting as well as several various other aspects that enter taking appropriate wedding photographes. Having said that, those points are actually all discovered via photography knowledge; nonetheless, the one thing that sets apart one digital photography organization coming from the kit is comprehending and recognizing that the most up to date in digital photography equipment plays a vital job. At that point there are firms prepared to buy the most recent innovation and/or equipment, observing a firm able to acquire the newest photography electronic camera is a sign that they recognize what it needs to carry out a wonderful project and is one thing that must be actually explored through a couple to be actually searching for a wedding digital photography company in Toronto.

In conclusion, choosing a company is actually a prudent choice because, with thus much to decide on from, and also with competition therefore brutal in the Toronto Ontario Wedding Photography sector, performing your investigation on which wedding digital photography provides the finest rate, gives you the best companies feasible throughout your wedding celebration day party and observing which firm makes use of the greatest and also biggest innovation the shoot wedding event pictures for their customers. So whenever you possess the blessed activity of being actually lucky adequate to begin the look for a wedding photographers organization in Toronto for your wedding event, consider the choice of talking to a wedding celebration digital photography organization of the devices they observe and also make use of if it is the most up to date and biggest available. It is a selection that you will reflect on and be delighted with.