A little late to the party, as usual.

 As I have aged, I have reformed my tendency to be late. Well, not that I ever wanted to be late, it just naturally happened due to a myriad of things, all of which culminated in 10-15 minutes late anywhere. When I was in my twenties, I even told a prospective employer that I was a hard worker, and would willingly stay late, but was habitually 15 minutes late. I got the job, by the way. As I have gotten older, I have reformed my ways. Now I aim for exactly on time. It usually happens.

But not so with cultural phenomenon. I guess I am a bit of a skeptic and hold off, watching the hype swirl around me. Fashion is a good example of this, as is hair styles. Cell phones was another; my then-husband welcomed me to the 21st century when I finally gave in. And with letterboxing, it took me a good year or so to give it a try after hearing about it. Then, wouldn't you know, I took it on far more than the ones encouraging me! And that is just the thing - I tend to be an all or nothing. (Awareness is a good thing, right?) Once I am interested, I fully immerse in the experience.

Star Wars is a good example. Although I saw the initial movie back in '77 when it came to my town, I wasn't quick to jump into fandom. Well, to be fair, I was only 13 and was flat broke. But I definitely was in line for the second film to hit theaters... and the third. And then it was over. I all but forgot about the saga until Episode 1. But after that film, I became a full-on, costuming fan girl. No lie. All or nothing. 

Some of the Star Wars stamps I have carved over the years
 (actual size 8.5" x 11"); I have a whole drawer full!

But frankly, and I say this with the greatest of lament, Star Wars has lost some of its luster. Oh, not the original canon of nine films, including a tenth (Rogue One). I love all of them. They all hold a special place in my life and heart. Always will. But the newer streaming shows? After a couple of the Mandalorian episodes, I took a pass - reluctantly at first, but now a definite hard pass. Same with Book of Boba Fett. I can't explain it; the shows just don't spark my imagination. I am not personally hurt - I simply think I, and those like me, were not the fans they were appealing to. 

But during the holiday break, perhaps a bit before, I had the curious thought to watch Harry Potter (of all things). Just out of the blue, really. I have not ever been engaged in any of the films, and had side-stepped the books and all the excitement. I had watched the first movie about five years ago or so, but even then it didn't strike me. Samsonite has read the books and watched some (if not all) of the movies, but she didn't seem all that excited. But now, it seemed I was ready. 

After watching the fourth movie - we are watching one each evening to culminate with the 20th anniversary reunion show - I am absolutely fascinated and hooked. With my imagination fully sparked, I am a little late to the party. Twenty years late! 

And you must know that carving has commenced. Starting with a request of a fellow 'boxer, I will be carving various stamps to play with, including our houses (yes, we have been 'officially' sorted), and collecting some pieces of essential accessories (I do love a good scarf!). Alongside a desire to dust off my Latin, there have been surprises along the way, such as which house each of our family members got sorted to, and the fun of thinking about our patronuses (is that a plural? or is it patroni?). After watching all the movies (in order, of course), I have set an intention to read the books, and watch the Fantastic Beasts movies, as well.* 

As one who studies psych, it all fascinates me to no end. Of course, the house-sorting is linked to personality 'types' of the Big 5. But there is so much more for my imagination to chew on. And that is what I needed - what we all need, perhaps: Something to think about other than the regrettable drama and hardship of current events. I am long overdue for some harmless, imaginative, immersive fun. How about you?

Platform number is an inchie, while Harry is 1.5"
carved on Tan-Z

*Yes, I am aware of the horrific, transphobic opinions of J.K. Rowling. So unfortunate. I do not support her bias and think she has made a huge mistake, first in forming a bigoted opinion, and second by spewing hateful, hurtful, and harmful things disguised as support of feminism. So shortsighted and lacking in wisdom and compassion-empathy. I am ignoring her, for the most part, to enjoy this wonderful thing she, the actors, and film-makers have created. I empathize with all the long-time fans who have agonized over this ethical dilemma and have had to choose between the object of their beloved fandom and respect/admiration of its creator. But, I want to be clear: I fully support, and am an ally, of any and all who identify as trans, as well as all in the LBTGQ community, either in or out. I completely disagree with the transphobic comments and opinions of Rowling.