Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!

After an agonizingly long delay, the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince movie is finally being released this week. Herself and the children are enthusiastic and have been contemplating which of their many Harry-Potter-themed vestments to wear to the theater. Even Herself's Beloved, who has not read the books, appears to be looking forward to the movie. I still bear a grudge for the eight-month deferment, but know that the film will have been worth the wait.

The whole Harry Potter series occupies a place in my heart that is difficult to describe. The magic of the Harry Potter universe extends far beyond spell-casting, unusual creatures, and powerful objects: it ventures into a world of very human emotion where unshakable friendships are forged and lessons in bravery, trust, and allegiance are learned; where purity of heart always triumphs, and the love of a mother for her child can change the world. It can bring optimism to even the most cynical at heart.

In honor of the movie, each day this week I will devote the blog to an aspect of the Harry Potter world. Today, a quote, capturing the fervent desire of many a reader:

“Tell me one last thing,” said Harry. “Is this real? Or has this been happening inside my head?”
“Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean that it is not real?”