Mondays IN The Undergroundrailroad - The Thanksgiving Edition - 11/24/03

[undergroundrailroad]

_______________________________



Hello everybody and welcome to Mondays 'IN' The Undergroundrailroad. Thanks for dropping in to check things out. Today our featured dessert is Southern Sweet Potato Pie. Sweet potato"e" pie is one of my favorite desserts and words. Oh, no! How many of you understand what I'm referring to?? Well, it was just a wonderful opportunity and reminder that another Republican was not his sharp and "smart" self.

If you're new to Mondays 'IN' The UGRR I will roll out the red carpet for you and give you a wonderful welcome. So if you're new, come on down and check us out.

---

African American Holiday Traditions by Antoinette Broussard.



The tradition of Thanksgiving in America goes back to the winter of 1621 and it's a holiday with symbolism that I love. How wonderful that we have one special day to give thanks for our families, shelter, food, health and other things that are important to us. Thanksgiving this year gives us the opportunity to reflect on the complicated and hostile world we live it. I also think it is equally important to understand the diversity of the holiday. Every culture brings its uniqueness in celebrating Thanksgiving. My mother still prepares soul-food galore, adapting many traditional dishes from African and Native-American cultures.

There was a long period, in our country's history, that enslaved African-Americans felt the emptiness of Thanksgiving being closed off or separated from their loved ones, stripped of dignity and hope. Still they were able to maintain the spiritual overtones while attendant of the ritual feasting of Thanksgiving, although sometimes meager. Nevertheless, we brought the model of celebration and the rituals of the harvest with us.

It is with the memory and spirit of those slaves that I celebrate Thanksgiving. They need to be remembered, respected and mourned.

---

James Brown

I remember quite vividly what we used to call red light basement parties. The only thing you needed to host one of these parties of a red light bulb, thus giving it the name "red light" parties. They were almost always held in the basement because of the heavy duty slow dancing and grinding that took place at the parties. Well, during one such party I sneaked a red bulb downstairs and put on some James Brown jams. My mother thought it very odd that she heard or felt a shaking of the upstairs floor and to her surprise, she saw this red glow and about 65 teenagers packed into her basement like a can of sardines. Not to worry. No slow dancing taking placed BUT rocking to the beat of SAY IT LOUD! I'm black and I'm proud!. To her horror she caught my younger brother and sister at the party with companions dancing like there was no end of the party. Suddenly the music stopped. FREEZE FRAME THE PARTY! We looked at her expression and she look horrified as 65+ teenagers gave her a look of absolute contempt ! Someone said, put the music BACK ON! She announced you all have 30 minutes to finish up the party. It was someone's job to pick up the needle to the record player when the song finished in order to play it again. That is how we played music back then. No CD's with "repeat" and I am so grateful to the CD Gods for making that feature but where was it during the 50's and 60's when I needed it so much. Even back then I wondered, why doesn't someone invent a record album that plays the same record over and over again, no interruptions with "needle" duty.

Well, true to her word, Mom was back in 30 minutes and picked up the needle AGAIN. Suddenly, a hysterical shriek! Someone protested WHY? does the party have to be over?? With the pleas of 65 plus teenagers, she just put the needle back down and went back upstairs. But Mom was starting to field telephone calls from angry parents who wanted to know where their "daughter" was. This time she marched back down at 1AM and unscrewed the red bulb and pulled the plug on the record player. "It's over, GO HOME NOW!" Several people contemplated an "after" party (very popular during the 50's and 60's) as an answer to teens with no curfews who wanted a continuation of the party and time spent with their companion. It was at the AFTER PARTY when the slowwwwww dancing took place and it got out of hand sometimes.

In 1986 James Brown was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I hope everyone will check out James Brown and his extraordinary landmark talent.

Today in the UGRR I want to honor the GOD FATHER OF SOUL, Mr. James Brown.

---

The Boondocks by Aaron McGruder

---

Questions of The Day

1. What is your favorite city ?

2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?

3. What is your favorite dessert ?




OK, I'm OUTTA. See you next Monday 'IN' The Undergroundrailroad

[GOPisEvil]

1. SWEET POTATO PIE AND THE GODFATHER!!!!

What a way to start the morning! :bounce:

Good morning Mina! :-)

1. My favorite city? Not counting my home, I go with Chicago. Loved it there.

2. My plans are to drive to my parents' home, eat until I am full, take a nap, and drive back home. :-)

3. Goodness...picking a favorite dessert would be like picking a favorite child (if I had children). It's all good! :9

:hi:

[undergroundrailroad]

11. Good Morning my golf cart friend.

Just love that golf cart! GIMME GIMME MORE!

So you like the Windy City . Well, I have been to Chicago. I went for 2 weeks when I was 15. I don't remember much about it except for the "L". That was fun.

So, it's eat until your full on Thanksgiving ;-) Enjoy all the desserts on Thanksgiving GOPisEvil.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya:

[ZenLefty]

2. Red Light Parties!! Yea!

:D

1. My favorite city is, believe it or not, Denver. It's really grown on me. And around me. I love the history, the architecture, and the people of this town (we're a lot more progressive than we're given credit for).

2. Dinner at mother's house. We get to cook it, though; all she's providing is the table and roof.

3. Not too big on desserts. Gotta maintain my svelte little figure, you know.

:D

[undergroundrailroad]

13. Dancing slow, lights R low, soft music is in the air!

Zen-TUPAC, I should have known that you would LOVE those "red light" parties ;-)

So, you love Denver.
I have never been to Denver but would love to go. It just seems like a city with beauty all around and it must be wonderful waking up to that beauty every day Z-Tupac.

So your having Thanksgiving dinner with Mom and your COOKING ! WOW! Save the drumstick for me ;-).

And being the superstar that you are, of course desserts are a BIG no-no!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Zen.

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya:

[demnan]

3. Thanks for that

I always enjoy your columns on Monday. Incidently, I ordered the cookbook. It was $1.60 used on Amazon - can you believe it?

On edit:

I always go to my Mother's for Thanksgiving. This year I'm bringing a home-made apple pie and a friend to the traditional feast.

[undergroundrailroad]

15. Hello Demnan and Welcome to Mondays IN The UGRR!

Welcome to Mondays IN The Undergroundrailroad where a growing group of DUers meet on Mondays and jump start our week ahead.

Now, thanks for the heads up on the cookbook. I just jumped over to Amazon and ordered 2 copies. INCREDIBLE at 1.65 cents! I noticed that in the used category the description of the books was "new". I order "used" at Amazon all the time and most of the time the items, are indeed, new!

---

Thanks so much for your kind words about Mondays IN The UGRR. I appreciate that.

Enjoy the book and let me know what you think when you receive your copy!

Enjoy your Thanksgiving Dinner complete with Apple Pie.

Love and Peace,

Mina
Undergroundrailroad

[ScreamingMeemie]

4. Good morning Mina! Sweet potato pie will be on our table as

well this Thanksgiving. I'll mourn with you for all that was lost during those horrible centuries before your ancestors were freed. :( Red light parties sound like fun. I have nothing from my teen years to compare to that.

Now,I'll get down to business...

My favorite city is my hometown of Milwaukee,Wisconsin. My heart will always ache for home. Big city, small town atmosphere.

Thanksgiving 2003 is just me and my Grumpy little family and a 20 pound turkey. Just the way I like it. A lot gets missed when you are running around trying to fit everyone and everything in.

My favorite dessert? Since I can't pick them all, I'll go with Tiramisu...although once at a restaurant we got one that tasted as if it had been sliced with a knife that had previously chopped onions.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Mina. I am so thankful for your friendship!!!

:hug: Laura

[undergroundrailroad]

16. Doesn't that sweet potato"e" pie recipe sound great?!

It is the low fat alternative to the high caloric traditional version. I'm going to make 4 pies using the recipe. I will start cooking tomorrow.

Thanks so much for remembering my ancestors that have everything to do with the "me" I am today.

As for "red light parties" they were so much fun. We would also set up blind-dates during the parties for those who needed a bump and grind partner. It's a wonder I survived those years. I look back and shake my head. I am now the exact opposite of the outgoing teenager I was. My mother refers to me and my party time friends now as "little old ladies with a "tude" (attitude).

Now, let's get down to biz.

Your favorite city is your hometown of Milwaukee, WI.
Now when I think of Milwaukee, I think of Mary Tyler-Moore. At the start of the show, they always showed different scenic pictures of the city and I have always wanted to visit Milwaukee. I have visited briefly but that was close to the airport and I didn't have an opportunity to see much.

Thanksgiving 2003 will be you, Mr. Grumpy and your family of Grumpettes :) I just want to qualify the "grumpy" part of your name, something that does not match your real life persona. You are one of the sweetest people on DU and I consider you a friend.

Oh and I found your favorite dessert! Enjoy!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Laura.

Love and peace,


Mina :love ya: :hug:

[ScreamingMeemie]

30. I've gained 10 pounds just reading that post...

;)

But it was worth it.

:loveya:

[undergroundrailroad]

32. (((Hug))) Laura :-)

:hug:

Mina :hi:

[Cheswick2.0]

5. NYC, My sisters house and Apple Crumb

nice thread!

[undergroundrailroad]

19. Long time, no see Cheswick! Well, I'm rolling out the red carpet for you.

Thanks for the compliments on behalf of Mondays IN The UGRR. Those are always appreciated very much.

I found a slice of Apple Crumb for you.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving Cheswick.

Peace and love,

UGRR/Mina :loveya:

[proud patriot]

6. I taste the sweet potato pie already ... YUM

1. What is your favorite city ?
Waikiki....Hey anything that gets me to Hawaii :D

2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?
We are going to my brother in laws house

3. What is your favorite dessert ?
coffee ice cream

Have a Great Holiday Everyone

[undergroundrailroad]

25. Ummmm, I love the taste of warm sweet potato pie :-)

I present the beautiful sky of Oahu (the gathering place). I have been to Hawaii once and it is just breathtaking! I have to agree with you on this selection of cities PP. I think the mountains of Hawaii are the most breathtaking scenery I have ever seen.

I see you are going to celebrate Thanksgiving at your brother-in-law's house. Great!

Your favorite dessert is coffee icecream. I also love Baskin-and-Robbins version of coffee icecream.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Proud Patriot.

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

[Crewleader]

7. Hello Mina

May You Have A Wonderful Holiday Friend!
Did I tell ya, my first name is Antoinette, loved your posting of African-Americans Holiday Tradtions...very nice.

1. My favorite city...Boston, no idea why? ;-)

2. Plans for Thanksgiving 2003, stay home and do a turkey! ;-)

3. That sweet potato pie looked mighty good friend,
you convinced me! ;-)

Big Thanks!For YOU make Mondays and Everyday around here,The Best!:hug:

And for all you DUer's!:hi:

[undergroundrailroad]

27. Hello Antoinette! Happy Thanksgiving :-)

Thank you for providing that wonderful "Happy Thanksgiving" banner and I love that turkey avatar. Also, thank you for your kind words. On behalf of Mondays In the UGRR, I thank you.

Crew/Antoinette I want to take this opportunity to "thank you" for your friendship and keeping in touch with me. Friendships are important to me and I am so proud to call you my friend.

Now, getting down to the questions:

Your favorite city is Boston!
I also like Boston and have visited on several occasions. It is a beautiful city with so much historical meaning.

Your plans for Thanksgiving are to relax at home and prepare your turkey. That will be my plans as well. The cooking starts tomorrow. I like to prepare the turkey early in the Thanksgiving Day morning. There is NOTHING to compare the aroma of a turkey baking in your oven. HEAVEN.

So you will join me in preparing that sweet potato pie. I will buy the frozen pie crust and make the filling using that exact recipe. Let me know how it turns out Antoinette.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Love and peace,


Mina :loveya: :hug:

PS: I just love your graphic of the turkey in the oven!

[Padraig18]

8. 3 answers

1. What is your favorite city ?

Chicago, IL

2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?

We'll be going to Chicago this year to my brother and sister-in-law's house.

3. What is your favorite dessert ?

Caramel-apple pie with French vanilla ice-cream.

:hi:

[undergroundrailroad]

28. Welcome Padraig18 to Mondays IN The UGRR. Red carpet arrival!

I would like to welcome you to our Monday hangout where we pretty much say and do whatever we want and ignore the heck out of spell check. Really, I'm glad you stopped in to check things out down here.

Not let me check out your responses:



Your favorite city is Chicago, IL. You are the second person who picked the Windy City. I just love the beautiful skyline of Chicago. I see you will spend Thanksgiving in Chicago with your brother and his wife. I hope the weather is cooperative. We have been having such strange weather as of late but there is something about snow on Thanksgiving that is so beautiful.

Your favorite dessert is caramel-apple pie al la mode. YUMMY!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and save UGRR a piece of the pie. ;-)

Love and peace,

UGRR Mina

[Amaya]

9. Just wanted to tell you,

I have always loved your Monday posts Mina..

For Thanksgiving.. My children and I are spending it with my ex husbands family. It's a long story.

My favorite city is New York City. Each and every time I go I find a my new favorite restaurant... I love the smells and the sounds. Since I live in a small little New England town it's quite a contrast.. which I love.

My favorite dessert is anything with chocolate. This year I'm makin' Chocolate Pecan pie :9

[undergroundrailroad]

29. Chocolate Pecan Pie. That sounds YUMMY. Welcome to Mondays IN the UGRR.

Welcome Amaya to Mondays IN The UGRR. I appreciate your generous comments and on behalf of Mondays In The UGRR, I thank you.



Well, I have managed to find a picture of your Thanksgiving dessert that you will prepare. I suffer Amaya. That just looks (and sounds) so good.

Your favorite city, and where I reside, is New York. Manhattan is just LOADED with wonderful restaurants of every kind. I can walk up and down 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th and 9th Avenues and search for a unique restaurant. Each having their own character and style. I love the outdoor restaurants on 2nd Avenue in the East Village. You can sit all day and people watch while you eat. It really is a special experience and contributes to the diversity of the city.

Amaya, please visit me again in the UGRR.

Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Love and peace,

UGRR Mina

[cally]

10. Hi Mina and DU

Here's a toast to my brave Sis. :toast: I would never host a 'red light' party at my own house. Always I went to someone else's house. I remember listening and dancing to James Brown, also.

1. Favorite city: Probably Istanbul to visit. I just loved how exotic and yet familiar it is. My favorite city to live is SF, of course.

2. I'm driving to LA for Thanksgiving at my Sister's. I'm not cooking. :bounce:

3. Bette's Diner in Berkeley makes double chocolate cookies that are divine. I try to get one everytime I'm in Berkeley. Ymmmm.

[undergroundrailroad]

31. Well guess what! I wasn't suppose to have the red light. Someone brought

to the party and the rest is James Brown History!



I have to get the red carpet out for my sister and best friend. Cally, I just can't IMAGINE you at a red light party! OK, I know, we were both teens at onetime and the 60's was just so "red light", using that symbolism in many ways. So we can both ease on down the red carpet together dancing to the tunes of James Brown!


I would love to someday visit Istanbul. That would be a dream. I have always wanted to visit Turkey but that opportunity has not yet presented itself. As I am getting older, I'm going to start traveling more. I have *not* been on a plane since 9-11. I had a personal experience that day and I'm not sure I have moved past the horror. Someone told me the other day when it's your time to go, time is up. I agree with that thinking. When I was younger, I would wake up and decide to go to Mexico, or LA, or Jamaica or Boston. I have always loved spontaneous travel. So perhaps one day I'll wake up and decide to go to Istanbul.

For Thanksgiving your visiting your sister in LA. Have a safe trip Cally.


I found a picture of Bette's Oceanview Diner in Berkeley. Is this your favorite chocolate chip cookie spot?

Have a happy Thanksgiving Sis. :hug:

Love,

Mina :loveya:

[cally]

33. That's the place

Ymmm...I was a teen and did crazy things. :shrug:

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving. :hug:

[undergroundrailroad]

35. Happy Thanksgiving

:hug:

Mina :loveya:

[BigMcLargehuge]

12. Happy Thanksgiving Mina!

and have I mentioned yet how glad I am to be modding with you for another term? No? Well let me say it now, I am rocked to my socks to be modding with you again this term!

Thanksgiving trails just behind Halloween in the race for Big McLargehuge's favorite holiday. We spend it with my side of the family usually at my Brother's house, though this year his restaurant offers the setting for our Thanksgiving. He does a traditional New England-y Thanksgiving with a few touches to liven things up. Our menu this year will contains some combination of the following:

Turkey (naturally)
Home made stuffing
Local mashed finger potatoes
Local Macomber turnips mashed with carrots
Cranberry jelly and Cranberry sauce
Chutney
Turkey Rice soup made with neck and feet (to eat while the big bird cooks)
Asparagus
Broccoli and cheese.

About this week's questions:

1. What is your favorite city ?

I was raised in New Bedford, MA. One time home of Herman Melville, one time Whaling capital of the world, one time most-prosperous fishing port in the world, one time textile capital of the world. Currently New Bedford embraces alot of the "once was" and can't seem to find a way out of an economy devasted by capital flight (textile mills left for Mexico almost 20 years ago) and new fishing regs to protect both Georges Bank and the Grand Banks.

Still, even though the vast majority of the city looks like a war zone, it is still possible to see the hope and optimism the city once fostered. So, New Bedford, MA is my favorite city.

How Melville saw NB


How NB is now
http://data2.itc.nps.gov/parkphotos/nebe%5Ffront%2Ejpg

Not bad really, but there aren't many non-historical pics...


2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?

We are spending Thanksgiving with my side of the family.

3. What is your favorite dessert ?

Rice Pudding, just like Avoa (grandma) use to make. (recipe available on request)

[undergroundrailroad]

34. Thanksgiving Menu at the BigMcLargeHuge Family Dinner!

---

The Turkey, yes naturally ;-) (save the wing for me!)
Homemade stuffing
Local mashed finger potatoes
Local Macomber turnips mashed with carrots (OH! that sounds good!)
Cranberry jelly and Cranberry sauce
Turkey Rice soup made with neck and feet (to eat while the big bird cooks). Yes! We need that to hold us over ;-)
Asparagus
Broccoli and cheese.

---

Now, please set a place card on the table for UGRR. That menu sounds terrific !

What about holiday movies (remember the Halloween movie marathon with Mom)? Do you have a favorite for Thanksgiving? I love IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE.

I want to comment on our moderator tour. You know, I (and others in Mondays In The UGRR) knew you before you became a famous DU Moderator. I'm just THRILLED that you were chosen to become a moderator last term and again, this term. You are delightful to work with BigMac and I just want to give you a tight, tight ((hug)) :hug: :loveya:

WOW! You were raised in the beautiful city of New Bedford! Thanks for those scenic before and after pictures of New Bedford. What a beautiful town!! Oh the history! The birthplace of author, Herman Melville and the textile industry. Years ago I ordered a handmade blanket from a company in New Bedford. BigMac, many of our cities resemble war zones and have lost the industry, charm and history that they once held. I do hope that our next Democratic President forms a commission or perhaps a new cabinet seat that addresses revitalization of our cities that have been hurt by the economics and technology of our time.

I don't know how many DUers recognize the name of Sweeney's Department Store in Long Island, NY. They are closing their doors this year. Many in LI were horrified that a Department Store that had been apart of several LI towns since the late 1800s was closing their doors forever. This store used to DELIVER your items via a horse and buggy. They would also transport you to the store if you needed assistance with transportation. We take so much of our commerce for granted, often not supporting it because of the lack of jobs and income for many LI families out of work. George Bush (both of them) have destroyed our country and I am OUTRAGED that we can allocate 87 Billion dollars to another country when our very own country is severely in need of a complete makeover.

---

Requesting Grandmother BigMcLargeHuge's rice pudding recipe!
I won't even place a graphic of rice pudding and insult grandmother??

---

What a delight to read your responses in the UGRR. BigMac you are just so much fun!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family.

Love, always,

Mina :loveya:

PS: PM the recipe when you get a chance.

[TahitiNut]

14. Gobble, gobble!

Questions of The Day

1. What is your favorite city ?

In the whole world, it's Paris (France) ... it's just incredibly special, imho. For the same vague reasons, my second favorite is San Francisco. These are cities I love -- where I feel especially alive and joyful.


2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?

Feast with family and give thanks to all my forebears (cousins of any degree) for the inheritances of their efforts.


3. What is your favorite dessert ?

What one isn't? :blink: :blink: (Sanders Hot Fudge Sundae "tin roof" with banana -- egads!)

[undergroundrailroad]

36. Gobble, Gobble back to you! Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving TahitiNut! I think it's appropriate at this time to "thank-you" for your wonderful moderating skills at DU. You dedicate so much time and effort, doing a great job in the process.

Now let me check you out!


Your favorite city in the WHOLE world is Paris! There are so many images in my mind about Paris. So how about a montage of images to complete my thoughts. My mother, brother and sister have been to Paris several times. My brother took his film to Cannes and he attends the festival every year.

Closer to home, you like the beautiful city of San Francisco.


You will spend Thanksgiving with your family, acknowledging your forebears. Now, aren't you going to have a computer around ;-) ??

Have a Happy Thansgiving TahitNut and yes, gobble, gobble down!

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

[jus_the_facts]

17. Hey Mina.....good mornin'...and Happy Turkey Day to ya too...

1. New York, New York...I wanna BE a part of it! Never been there but would go if I could...in a NY minute!;-)

2. Guess I'll be goin' to my b/f's parents as his sister and cousins will be in town and mine won't be able to travel up here..my Dad had to be admitted back into the hospital Sat. night with high fever again...so looks like he'll be spending the holiday there. :cry:

3. Hummm my favorite...guess it'd have to be my family recipe for a blueberry cheese pie...cool whip..cream cheese...sugar and vanilla whipped together...poured into a grahm cracker crust...topped with blueberry pie filling...*drool* :9

Have a great week DU and Happy Thanksgiving too! :loveya:

All the BEST to you Mina!!:pals:

Love ya,

~Amber~

Come here sister.....Papa's in the swing
He ain't too hip...about that new breed babe
He ain't no drag
Papa's got a brand new bag

Come here mama....and dig this crazy scene
He's not too fancy....but his line is pretty clean
He ain't no drag.
Papa's got a brand new bag

He's doing the Jerk....
He's doing the Fly
Don't play him cheap 'cause you know he ain't shy
He's doing the Monkey, the Mashed Potatoes, Jump back Jack, See you later
alligator.

Come here sister
Papa's in the swing
He ain't too hip now
but I can dig that new breed babe;
He ain't no drag
He's got a brand new bag

Oh papa! He's doing the Jerk
Papa...he's doing the Jerk
He's doing the twist ... just like this,
He's doing the Fly ev'ry day and ev'ry night
The thing's....like the Boomerang.
Hey....come on
Hey! Hey.....come on
Hey! Hey....he's pu tight...out of sight...
Come on. Hey! Hey!

:yourock:

[undergroundrailroad]

37. If I can make it here, I can make it anywhere, it's up to you NEW YORK!

New Yorkkkkkkkkkkkkk!

How did I do?

---

There is *nothing* more beautiful then Times Square at night. I just love it! New York is a beautiful city, day or night, and I encourage you to visit!

---

Amber, before I proceed, I want to wish your Dad a speedy recovery. I know you have traveled to be with him and it has to be emotionally exhausting for you. While I realize it's difficult to provide a support system via the WWW, I do hope you will reach out to me if there is ever the need to just talk. I will listen. Since I have been a member of DU, I have seen our members reach out to others during a time of need, showing compassion and love. That is what makes The Democratic Underground so unique. I'm speaking of our "community". While we may not present ourselves in a tangible manner, we are there in a spirtual manner. So, I will remember you and your Dad on Thanksgiving. I will be online all day. Cooking and DU is a great combination. Try it, you'll like it ;-)

Blueberry cheese pie, ummmm that sounds so yummy. Let me see if I can find a Blueberry cheese pie via my "Bewitched" virtual skills.

---

Happy ThanksGiving Amber, :hug:

---

Love,

Mina

PS: Thanks Amber for the song :loveya:

[jus_the_facts]

40. Thank YOU so much Mina.....

....for your kind words of support and thinking of me and my Dad too...I'm very THANKFUL to have found DU and especially for getting to meet wonderful...thoughtful...sweet and kind friends like you!!!


Hope your THANKSGIVING IS THE BEST EVER!!:hug: :loveya: :hug:

p.s. You're welcome for the song and thank you for that exceptional rendition of New York and the awesome photo of Times Square...I SOOOO wanna GO...maybe one o'these days *wishes HARD*! ;-)

[supernova]

18. Hey, UGRR

:hi:

I agree about sweet potato pie! Hmmmmmm.. :D I like it much better than pumpkin pie, more flavor and it holds together better.

Thanks for reminding us that not everyone always got to celebrate Thanksgiving in freedom. It makes me much more mindful now.

1. What is your favorite city ?
I have fond memories of both Washington DC and Baltimore. Both have so much to offer. I lived there 6 years and never saw it all. From the fav European city thread: Vienna and Prague.

2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?
My sister and I are having our own little celebration. I'm trying to think of low fat, low cal recipes for side dishes for her.

3. What is your favorite dessert ?
Pecan Pie!!!!

[undergroundrailroad]

38. Happy Thanksgiving Super, Super, SUPER Nova :-)

Doesn't the sweet potato pie hold together better during the baking process? I couldn't agree more.

How are you SuperNova? BTW, I think :yourock: too :loveya:

---

Now, let me check out your responses:


Your favorite city is Washington and Baltimore. Well, I just LOVE Inner Harbor! I remember the first time I visited that place, I was just in awe of the level after level of food, food and, especially, seafood, which I love. I also love Washington DC and Georgetown.

I see your in search of low cal alternatives and adapting your Thanksgiving menu to prepare healthier alternatives. The recipe for the sweet potato pie is low-fat, low-cal. I'm going to make the pies tomorrow and I'm making an extra pie for "taste time" ;-). I HAVE to do this! I taste, taste, taste, taste, taste all through the cooking process. I need to focus, focus, focus! Help me Supernova!

And now, I see that your favorite dessert is pecan pie. It's hopeless! I'm just going to eat small portions.

---

HAPPY THANKSGIVING SUPER, SUPERNOVA

Love,

Mina (UGRR) :loveya: :hug:

[supernova]

46. Happy Thanksgiving to you to

Mina.

What are you doing for Turkey Day?

Yes, that Sweet Potato Pie recipie looks good. :9 I'll have to show it to my sister. I've been doing great with Atkins-style eating, but my sister apparently has run into problems. She went to the Dr last week and her cholesterol was "off the charts". So we're going back to low fat eats for the holiday.

Today was wonderful! See the On My Walk today

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=105&topic_id=449481

[Punkingal]

20. Good morning, sweet Mina....

You little ole sweet potato pie!

My favorite city is San Francisco, but I think when I make it to Paris, I will say that is my favorite.

For Thanksgiving, I am going to be at home, and our guests will be my sister, a friend of hers, one of our sons, and a homeless man that my husband met in the park where he takes our dog for a run.

My favorite dessert is German chocolate cake, although I don't make that at Thanksgiving. For that, I go with the southern favorite, pecan pie, and pumpkin pie. I love sweet potato pie, but I have this great sweet potato dish with pecan streusel that we have with dinner, although it is much like a dessert.

I hope you have a lovely Thanksgiving. And everyone else on DU.

[undergroundrailroad]

39. Awe, you little cutie Punkinpie ;-)

So how are you doing Pukingal. I just want to take this opportunity to thank you for the wonderful job you do moderating DU. I for one am so thankful to have you on board and let's boggie down the red carpet together,



"Come on and ease on down, ease on down the road, come one and ease on down ease on down the road,
don't you carry nothing that might be a load, come on and ease on down, ease on down the road! Pick your left foot up, when the right ones down, come on legs, keep movin, don't be lose no ground".........

---

OK, for Thanksgiving you are going to be at home with family and friends. I see you have extended an invitation to someone less fortunate. That just wonderful! But it does not surprise me. You are a caring and giving person.

---

I just found our heavenly dessert. OH MY MY MY! Doesn't that look tempting Pukin?

---

Your favorite city is Paris AND San Francisco!

---

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving PunkinGal.

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

[blazinjason]

21. Mina thanks for a wonderful "Thanksgiving Day Edition" of Monday's/UGRR!

Mina, you really do make my week special and I appreciate all the hard work you put into your column.

I love your "dancing" Undergroundrailroads. So cute.

Now, I plan to spend Thanksgiving at home with the family. We will have a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner. Your comments have given me another idea. We were going to light candles for world peace and other requests. I'm going to light a special candle for the slaves that suffered horrific hardships. You are correct Mina in not forgetting them and their contributions to our country.

My favorite city is Houston, Texas. It's my adopted hometown.

My favorite dessert is sweet potato pie with icecream.

Have a great Thanksgiving Mina.

BJ and family.

[undergroundrailroad]

41. BJ you are so sweet. Thank you!

Happy ThanksGiving BJ!

---

Thanks BJ for those kind words and I am so glad you like the dancing

---

Now, your going to spend Thanksgiving with your family and light a candle for the slaves to honor their struggle. I want to thank you for doing that.

Your favorite city is Houston, TX (great city, btw) and your favorite dessert is sweet potato pie with ice-cream. WOW! Let me see if I can find a slice of pie for you BJ?

---

Happy Thanksgiving BJ and much love. :yourock:

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

[blazinjason]

53. Thanks Mina.

Mina :yourock:

Happy Thanksgiving.

BJ

[ironflange]

22. Happy T'giving to y'all south of the border!

Canadian Thanksgiving is in early October, earlier harvest and all that.

1: Calgary, where I live, of course, not so much for the city, which is pretty dull, but for the setting.

2: Already done (see above). We went to the in-laws, as per usual. I always get to be in charge of the dead bird. It was superb, no surprise.

3: Pecan pie

My recuperation slowly continues, Mina. I walked to & from Blockbuster this morning, and it felt good, tho I'm kinda wiped now.

[undergroundrailroad]

43. What movie did you get at Blockbuster?

How are you feeling? I've been worried about you! Thanks for checking in the UGRR today.

OK, now, let me check you out.

---

Your favorite city is Calgary, where you reside. Canada is such a beautiful country. I have been to several cities in Canada but not Calgary. I will have to check Calgary out.

So, you were in charge of carving the bird. Ouch! Oh well, someone has to do it. You know, each year I become more and more challenged when I eat meat. I have curtailed my meat/poultry intake over the past few years. I tried to go six months straight without eating meat, but my doctor told me I would have to eat some form of meat.

---

AND your favorite dessert is?............

Please feel better Ironflange and thanks for dropping in to check me out.

Love and peace,

Mina :yourock:

[ironflange]

58. Just a couple of games

Mario Kart and Mario Golf for the Gamecube.

Thanks for the pic of Calgary, but it's really old. Here's what it looks like now, from a different angle:



That's the Calgary Stampede Midway in front. When you come to visit, that's the time to do it, early July.

The Calgary Tower has a new look, they got rid of the pukey orange and yellow and replaced it with red and stainless steel. Looks a lot sharper now.

My family sticks to the tradition that it's the host who does the carving, so although I cook the bird I don't carve it, unless we're at my house, obviously. Carving doesn't bother me anyway, I am a professional! I also have a beautiful antique carving set that I love to use.

See you later, Mina. I'm doing better every day, though lifting is still out of the question.

[GoGo1]

23. Hello Mina, Mina! Thanks for a wonderful UGRR today.

My favorite city is Ft. Wayne, Indiana.

My favorite dessert is peach melba (yummy).

My plans for Thanksgiving are to have dinner at my sister's house with the rest of the family.

Mina thanks for "jump starting" my week :loveya:

Happy Thanksgiving.

GoGo

[undergroundrailroad]

45. Going to a GO GO! Hi GoGo, Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanks for dropping in the UGRR today. So, how are you? I see your favorite city is Ft. Wayne, Indiana.



I have been to Ft. Wayne and Southbend, Indiana. Actually, I spent a lot of time in the state of Indiana and I love it!

---

Yummy peach melba! Let's share this dessert GoGo

---

Enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner with your family gogo. :hug:

Love,

Mina :loveya:

[Brewman_Jax]

24. G'day, Mina/UGRR

That time of year again!

I wasn't a big fan of Thanksgiving from a historical point of view. I had not looked at Thanksgiving from that point of view--thanks for the different point of view.

Now, for your questions:

1. New Orleans. A fun vacation spot, great food, and I don't have to fly to get there.

2. Going to my parents' house, which is 20 minutes down the road. I'll make casseroles and dessert.

3. Favorite dessert--the ones I make, like pecan pie, sweet potato pie, pumpkin pie, bread pudding, etc. :9

[undergroundrailroad]

48. Happy Thanksgiving LurkingArgyle!

I wish you have a very happy Thanksgiving with your family. Sort of curious. What kind of casseroles and desserts are you preparing? I love casseroles.

---

New Orleans is just a beautiful romantic city. I LOVE it! Actually, I have several family members who used to live in New Orleans. I have visited the city many times.
Great City selection Lurking Argyle!

---

I see you have many favorite desserts including my holiday favorite, sweet potato pie.

---

In your honor, I found a nice comfy Argyle sweater!

---

Have a Happy Thanksgiving Argyle and thanks for considering those in the past in which I dedicate this Monday IN The Undergroundrailroad.

Love and peace,

Mina (UGRR) :loveya:

[Brewman_Jax]

54. Thanks much, Mina!

And wishing you a Merry Thanksgiving! :hi:

Hugs to you! :hug:

[jmm]

26. Hi DU mommy!

1. What is your favorite city ?

I'll pick Boston, since that's where I'm from ;-).

2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?

Luckily I got the day off of work so I'm going to my grandfather's house.

3. What is your favorite dessert ?

If I had to pick one cheesecake.

[undergroundrailroad]

49. Where have you been? I've been worried about you!

OK, here is your cheesecake and a :hug: from Mom :loveya:

---

I'm so happy you got the day off for Thanksgiving. How did things work out Halloween? Did you have to work that night?

I see Boston is your favorite city! It is such a beautiful city with great views and restaurants.

Please drop me a pm and let me know how your doing. When I don't see you on Mondays Jmm, I become concerned. Don't work so hard, OK?

Here's another ((hug)) :hug:. Mom love you.

Love,

Mom

[jmm]

57. Everything's ok, I've just been busy.

I work four ten hour shifts, usually from Sat to Tues or Sun to Wed, plus I often get out late so I'm usually not online on work days.

I was able to get Halloween off! So far I haven't been asked to work a Friday yet but I was scared that because I'm still kind of new that they'd try to make me work it anyways.

[pmbryant]

42. Thanksgiving Monday

Thanks for the daily thread, Mina. Great story about your red light party! :D

1. What is your favorite city ?

2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving 2003 ?

3. What is your favorite dessert ?

(1) There are many cities that I love, including Toronto, San Francisco, and Nice, France, but my all-time favorite is my hometown of Chicago.

:bounce:

(2) Drive 5 hours to Dallas to visit my sister, then go out to eat in downtown Dallas for the big Thanksgiving meal. Two years in a row now. Is this a new tradition? :shrug:

(3) Anything ice cream related. Especially milk shakes. :D Alas, I cannot do enjoy those very often these days.

Have a great holiday, Mina!

:hi:

--Peter

[undergroundrailroad]

50. Thanksgiving Monday. I like that. Good evening Professor Peter.

I would like to take this opportunity to "thank you" for your presence in the moderator forum. Welcome back. I stand with all in the UGRR in thanking you for your hard work and dedication at The Democratic Underground. You take good care of this place. Thanks Professor.

Btw everybody, I nicknamed Peter "Professor" because of his wisdom about everything! He is short and to the point. Love that.

---

Your favorite city is Chicago (your hometown). Your spending Thanksgiving in Dallas with your sister. Awe Peter, I sense you would like to stay home for Thanksgiving. You know, several years ago I was placed in the same position. I had to travel too or with a family member to have Thanksgiving. I stopped doing that because I just prefer the freedom and privacy of my home to feel free to do as I please. I can work at my own pace PLUS I'm online at DU. This might appear crazy to others, but it's what *I* choose to do. Anywho, enjoy the luxury of dining out! Often, I have suggested to family members that we do just that. I usually hear a loud, collective majority say "NO"! I had no veto power plus I had to prepare the Turkey.

---

Speaking of milkshakes. When I was young, we spent a lot of time traveling and my favorite treat was a milkshake from the Dairy Queen. I haven't been to a Dairy Queen in years, but I just love their vanilla milkshakes.


Peter, here is a :hug:

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Love,

Mina :loveya:

[leftist_rebel1569]

44. Hey UGRR!

here's my answers to the questions:

1. Minneapolis, MN. :)

I live in a suburb of it which I think qualifies as my least favorite however...

2. Probably go to a friend's house or spend time on DU after I get bored of being around my family in about 15 minutes (thank god they have thanksgiving stuff at my house, and not some relative like 100 miles away)

3. Donuts! :donut:

[undergroundrailroad]

51. Hi Leftist Rebel! Happy Thanksgiving!

When I think of Minneapolis, I think of Mary Tyler Moore. I really liked her show and identified with "Rhoda", Mary's neighbor and friend. Rhoda was spunky and seldom on TV did you see a woman assert herself the way Rhoda did. Also, Minneapolis is so clean and clean is a "good-thing" because I believe in environmental causes. Clean air is very important.

---

Now, I see your plans are flexible for Thanksgiving. Of course, DU is open 24/7 and you will find me here.

---

I love Krispy Donuts! You just can't have one ;-)

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Love and peace,

Mina

[MaineDem]

47. Hello, Mina

I'm late and I only have a minute today to respond to the UGRR of the Day. I'm working to make regime change happen in Washington so it's acceptable if I let my DU time dwindle a little bit, right? :)

You know, I've never ever had a sweet potato? Not alone and not in a pie. They're just something we never had growing up and I've never tried them as an adult. I should give 'em a shot.

Thanks for the Boondocks. As always, it's a highlight of my Mondays.

Questions and Answers:
1. My favorite city?? That's a toughie. I love Portland, Maine; it's a lovely small city. I love NYC for its vibrancy. I love Rome for its history. And I love Montreal because it's so close and it's foreign. Make any sense?

2. We're going to the Boston 'burbs to have Thanksgiving with my in-laws. We've been doing that for almost 30 years and we spend Christmas with my family. Lately, the families have been getting more spread out and fewer join in the holiday celebrations at one time.

3. These days, I'm happy with an apple for dessert but I must admit I like almost anything. A warm chocolate peacan pie with real whipped cream might tempt me, though. :evilgrin:

Have a great Thanksgiving, Mina. You give so much to us DUers; I'm sure I join all the others here in being thankful for your dedication.

:hug:

[undergroundrailroad]

52. Mary, keep fighting for those important causes! You are like a

family member in the UGRR. I totally understand and I appreciate your checking in every Monday even if it's just to say hello.





Portland, Maine is such a beautiful city and yes, I do understand what you mean about travel to Canada. Your in the USA, then, suddenly you pay your toll then your in another country, Canada. Yes, I do understand that logic.

By all means try a baked sweet potato. Just wrap it in foil and bake it at 350 for about 25 min. You can top it with a little dab of butter (I know, I know, BUTTER!) or just eat it plain. I sort of grew up on a diet of sweet potatoes or candied yams as my Mom likes to call them. Yes! Give it a go. Let me know what you think Mary.

Having Thanksgiving in the Boston 'burbs' with your in-laws and warm pecan chocolate pie is your favorite dessert. Yummy.

You are just so sweet and thanks for your kind words and your participation! Also, thanks so much for your dedication to public service. You really make a difference for all of us, not just at DU, but all over the United States.

Here's a tight Thanksgiving :hug:. I'm Thankful for knowing you Mary.

Love and peace,

Mina :loveya:

[MaineDem]

56. Are you confusing me with Maine Mary?

Although she's the only DUer I know in person we are actually two separate Maine Democratic women. :D

I can understand your confusion. How you keep track of everyone who visits the UGRR is amazing!

Happy Thanksgiving. :hug:

[blueseas]

55. Happy Thanksgiving

Mina and all of DU
:yourock: