Dear Diary,

My winter holidays went by without a hitch, though soon I will return to school, Mr. Afton—who, I now realize, seems to be Miss Afton—in tow. My first term was not a smashing success in terms of academics, but I have made many friends and hope to continue doing so as the rest of my first year continues. Despite my father's insistence (and my mother's example) that young ladies have no need to be talented in all areas of magic, I feel overcome with sadness every time I receive less than an 'Exceeds Expectations' on a classroom or homework assignment!

That is why I am making it a goal in the new year to be happy with who I am. I will never be as intelligent as Belphoebe Lestrange, nor do I ever think I will compare with socialites like Olivia Pendergast. What I can be, however, is myself, and perhaps a younger version of my mother if I try hard enough! I will focus my energy on my strengths, rather than my weakness; besides, a jack of all trades is a master of none.

Focusing on my strengths will also mean putting more effort to meet every Music and Art club meeting in the second term. I have long fingers compared to many girls my age, which makes me predisposed to musical ability. My singing voice will never compare to the women who train all their lives for the opera, but I'm sure I can learn to sing a soothing lullaby without causing a grimace. My sketching has always been stellar, if I do say so myself, but I wish to add color. Never will I be able to design my own dresses if I'm blind to the palettes of the latest fashion.

Finally, I want a cat, and I will spend the rest of my second term trying to convince Headmaster Black—Mr. Sirius' dad—to let me keep it and Mr. Afton with me at school. I'm sure I will succeed with enough perseverance.

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