Magical Musings
- By: A Philosophical Cat


In honor of our theme for November, Gratefulness or maybe it was Thankfulness, or actually, maybe it was Gratitude (you get the idea... I hope), my musings for this month will cover one of the things that I am most grateful for - FOOD. Looking around HEX on any given day at any given time one will find posts about food. It's a common theme for many of us as we chat with each other about our hopes, dreams, and lives.

Sadly, I don't know about you, but I am hopeless when it comes to food-related charms. It's odd. I don't tend to have trouble with most other charms especially prank-related ones. But alas, my skills in the kitchen are more Muggle than magical. So, in lieu of my lack of knowledge on charms used to conjure or cook food (because I'm sure y'all don't want an entire article on Aguamenti *cough*), I'm going to discuss my gratitude for those who do know a thing or two in the kitchen.

Helga Hufflepuff

Helga was not only one of the four founders of Hogwarts. She wasn't just the Head of Hufflepuff House. Nor was she someone that could be, or would allow herself to be, cast aside as nonessential. She is one of THE strongest and most capable witches anyone has ever learned about. Her strengths were beautifully woven into every single thing she did. She took in students who were hard-working, loyal, and dedicated and deemed them ALL worthy of the same respect and love. Her compassion even stretched to the care of House Elves, of whom she is responsible for placing in the kitchens at Hogwarts so that they could work and be well-cared for. This woman was also pretty badass when it came to food-related charms. Man, oh man do I wish I had been alive back then to have witnessed her skills and craft firsthand. My mouth salivates just thinking about it. I know that we still use many of her recipes today, but to see her at work? Priceless.

Molly Weasley

Now I'll move on to a modern-day badass in the kitchen, among other places. Molly Weasley. Sadly, I am not one of those people who have been privy to attending any event that Molly has 'catered' or cooked for. I know, tragic, right? *whines* I suppose it's my own fault for not 'broadening my horizons' or some crap like that. I prefer to hide in my dark, shadowy corners with my select group of friends. Perhaps one day one of said group will be adept at food-related charms, but I digress. Going back to the topic at hand, Molly Weasley is truly gifted in the kitchen - at least according to the amazing picture painted by the descriptive words and gestures provided by those who have experienced it firsthand. Whether it's for a business meeting, an event like a bridal shower, birthday, or wedding, or even just a family supper - this woman has it all. I have yet to hear a single complaint or negative comment about her food, so... can someone scrounge me up an invite somehow? No, really. I'm hungry. Please?