Summer's only just begun and already I've a near-disastrous tale to share. (Is it possible for a single uneventful summer in Hogsmeade? There's always something I feel, you would think the ministry would be better prepared for the various disasters.)

Anyway, a few days ago Sloane invited me to visit with her family and as were walking through the park a hedge maze suddenly appeared around us! Her mother was only a few feet behind us but we were unable to find the path leading back to her for what felt like hours. I don't believe it was in fact hours, but it felt that way regardless. Were you there as well? Or Anne? I'd hate for either of you to have gotten injured in the maze.

As much as I loathe being so far from my friends in the summer, it is times like these where I'm relieved to reside in Ireland. The worst that happens at home is the vegetables not growing as they ought to. However, that is completely predictable and not at all news. My father is hopeful that this will be the year our luck turns, my mother, of course, knows better. She sometimes mentions following her family to America, and perhaps that would be where we find success. Perhaps there's still gold to find somewhere. Naturally, this will never come to pass as such a move would end not only my but Bridget and Callum's educations. The younger ones would be able to attend Ilvermony though...

Forgive me, I'm rambling. It's far easier to put my thoughts to paper than it is to discuss this with any of my siblings. Bridget becomes furious anytime this is mentioned (Father too).

How has your summer progressed so far? I know you must be nervous as you await your OWL scores, but you shouldn't be. I have faith that you did excellently, very few studied for it more than you. Have you picked up any odd jobs? It's so odd not to see you and the rest every day in the dorms. Has Miss Moony badgered you into brewing potions beyond her skillset yet? She was quite determined this past year, though hopefully she'll head my warnings about potenial catastrophes.

On that note, I'd like to extend an invitation for you (and her, if you'd like) to come visit the farm this summer. There's a pond nearby that my siblings all enjoy running off to, and it's a rather freeing place to be. Some of the fields extend to the horizon with limitless room to run (or fly). I hope to see you soon!