So I was one of the nutty people that went to the bookstore Friday the 21st to buy the new Harry Potter book. Actually, I just wanted to dress up and see what was going one. I fully intended to go to Target or Walmart the next day and pay less than Borders would want. I toyed with the idea of going to Barnes and Noble later, but people that came later said that it was packed and crazy over there. I knew my friends were over there, but it was not busy at Borders/Waldenbooks because they are in the mall, which closes at 9.



At 9:30 they passed out tickets for a place in line and light up wands. So there we were, about 20 people walking around like someone's bad party, where you don't know anyone.



They had food - for sale. About 10, they went with the spelling bee, which we joined in because we were bored. I lasted til about the fifth round when she gave me one of those made up words "mosmodroh" or something, meaning the sign Voldemart and cohorts show in the sky. Sign of the bad guys. Oh well. Some obsessed lady and young son won the gift certificate.



Then there was the Great Snape Debate, which wasn't much of a debate, because most people thought Snape was secretly good.



Finally, the costume contest. The entrants were three guys, who all looked sort of like Harry, except for the young man with eyeglasses and spiky black hair and cape. (he won)



And about seven girls, including two "muggles" and another Sybil, and a school girl with the Ravenclaw crest on her sweater. I think she was Cho. I was Sybil (over the top) with wig, round glasses and about 10 pounds of jewelry. I felt like Mr. T's wife) Google him.



There was also a croceted shawl.



It was worth the warm wig for winning. I got a paper crown and $10. certificate. I decided to stay and buy the book, as it only cost me $12.68)



I took it home, dispensed with the jewelry, took a shower and started at 1 am. By 4, I was falling asleep.



Finished it at 1 am Sunday morning, and somewhat bleary eyed, still made it to church.



It was good, and all the loose ends were more or less tied up nicely. I was satisfied with the ending.



No I won't tell you how it ends. There are plenty of internet sources for that.

BTW, the "crystal ball" was a round vase I found at Goodwill, and I painted the inside with Elmers glue and glitter.

I think I am all set for Halloween.