Earthdate: 19990731

I have officially been placed in the Accounting & Budgeting department at the Ministry and while it would be inaccurate to describe myself as, say, thrilled, I believe the position does appeal to my particular set of strengths and I hope to excel. I had wanted to write My NEWT scores were not up to my usual academic standard this past year, so I should not feel much surprise at failing to obtain my initial choices. NEWTs also do not specifically reflect the skills I want for my eventual career, although they do not flaunt my skills in mathematics, but perhaps Arithmancy is a near enough equivalent for employers to gauge that knowledge. My opinion, however, is that Arithmancy is much less dull monotonous and tedious than accounting. I will make the best of it, logically, as with the WEI program, it cannot be changed for the moment being.

While my enthusiasm for my new area of employment is minimal, I am however, very much looking forward to obtaining a flat. I have felt aged compared to my nineteen years ever since our first seventh year at Hogwarts, perhaps now that will reward me in my venture to live outside of my parents' home. My father is unsure I am ready, but I have shown him the statistics of those who have attended boarding school for most of their childhood and my salary and planned budget for the next year, and he relented, even before I could present the notebook of Pros & Cons I had meticulously drawn up last week for myself while watching rerunnings of TNG.

Padma and I are looking in Camden for a flat this weekend, and I hope it will be a most productive search. I am optimistic! Does anyone have any suggestions when flat-hunting and/or information about particular buildings in the Camden area?

Warded to Mandy & Lisa:

Advice requested, re: Living with a Female?
I am in general looking forward to this venture, but I am concerned I will make a fool of myself and/or creat uncomfortable situations for Padma Patil. She is a good friend, so I do not anticipate great political or personality conflicts, however, I
Erm. You know how I am. Around females. That aren't you. Or Lisa.