Well, I made it to Hogwarts, and somehow managed to make it across the lake without dying. Why did no one warn me there were going to be boats when we got off the train? I didn't like it at all, and honestly I wanted to come right home, but I didn't. (Only because no one would let me, but that's not the point!) Ignacio sat in my boat, too. I miss you and Mama. And Tony and Artie. When do I get to see you all? Not until Christmas?

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PS: Please don't be mad but I'm not a Ravenclaw.

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I miss you too, more than you can imagine.

I am so proud of you for making it through the boat ride, the sorting ceremony and the entry feast! I want to hear every detail about it all. Hogwarts held some of the best days and memories for me, and for your mother, so we're sure you will have a splendid time. The adjustment may be hard at first, but if you give it a chance, you may just find one day you'd prefer to stay there than come home to spend time with your decrepit old uncle!

I see you've already run into your cousin. I hope the comfort of having him there will make you feel a bit better; you are family and at the end of the day, you always will be. Uncle Basil is there too, should you need anything, and you know I'm always just an owl away.

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P.S. I could never be angry at whatever house you've landed in, but this is all the better so you don't go favoring Basil over me! You will make Gryffindor house proud, just like your father.

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The boats were terrible. Ignacio was there and he sat right across from me, and I swear he wanted me to go overboard. He looked like he was rocking the boat, but he swears it wasn't on purpose. The sorting ceremony was fine... I guess. Everyone seems nice but there were a couple girls arguing at my table. I didn't sit near them though, mainly because they're girls. The food is good here, and breakfast is my favorite because of how much they have, even though I've heard Uncle Basil muttering that there are no pumpkin pastries out yet.

I haven't spoken to him much. He is stern. When are you becoming a professor here? I could see you every day and that would be so much better!

I also didn't know Papa was a Gryffindor. I will do my best to make him proud. I like lions more than ravens.

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Don’t worry about Ignacio. He’s just trying to get under your skin, and if you let him— he wins. The boats are a funny little tradition, but at least you won’t have to do it next year. That’s only to give you a grand view of the castle. Isn’t it amazing?? I remember when I saw Hogwarts for the first time, I definitely thought a dragon lived underground. (Don’t worry, there isn’t one. Except for maybe your potions master who’s about as old as one!)

You’ll make friends in your house soon. The good news is all the first years are going to be new at the same time, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet some nice kids in class.

Unfortunately, I don’t think I’m as qualified as your Uncle Basil to be a professor there. He is stern, but he’s a big softy. Just bring him one of those pasty things he’s so keen on and I’m sure you’ll see. (Don’t tell anyone, but if you stop by the kitchens and ask the house elves nicely, they can usually pull something together for you.)

I didn’t know your papa too well when I was a student, but I do remember hearing that he was a brilliant Gryffindor. Brave, funny, and smart enough to pass all his classes. I know he’d be so proud of you, just the way Lucy and I are.

Let me know how your first week of classes goes! I’m sure you’ll find some of the subjects pretty interesting and hey— at least I’ve already taught you to fly, right?

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The castle is amazing! I like to peek out the tower when I'm in the common room, because I can see a lot of the grounds from way up here. Are there any cool hiding spots you remember?? It's a shame there's no dragon because that would be pretty neat. I think there's a kid who works with dragons or something like that, lives with them? Raised with them? I can't remember. He's not feral like one though, so I guess that's a good thing.

I've met a couple people in my house and they seem nice. And I promise to be just like Papa then, being all of those things to pass my classes and make you proud. I'll also try to make a friend with a Hufflepuff since they're close to the kitchens. They can sneak me pastries for Uncle Basil.

I really like Charms, but our professor made us use sticks instead of wands. Flying is fun! I feel like I'm better than a lot of other people. I don't think I'll try out for quidditch this year, only because there's only chasers open and I don't wanna be a chaser.

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I'm glad you're enjoying the castle! I knew you'd warm up to it and start making friends too. Soon enough it will get easier. As for secret hiding places, I really shouldn't rob you of the joy of finding out Hogwarts' quirks on your own but, well... just one. There used to be a secret room, just three stones up and four to the left of the trophy room. If you tap it once with your wand, an archway should appear and it will lead you into a swimming pool in the early autumn and late spring. See if you can find it and - of course - use it only for studying or practicing your back stroke!

Your classes should ease up after a few weeks. Remember that while you're still learning the basics, sometimes it's better not to jump headlong into things. Think of those students who come from non-magical families and have never held a wand before. It's for the best to ensure understanding of theory before just waving your magic around. I'm glad (and not surprised to hear) you're doing well in flying though. There's no rush to join the team if you don't want to be a chaser. You could always join the flying club to stay sharp and see what happens next year.

Keep me up to date of how your term continues to go and if Ignacio gives you any trouble.

I'll see you at Christmastime.

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