Hello everybody and welcome to Mondays 'IN' The Undergroundrailroad. How is everyone feeling on this first back-to-work Monday of the New Year? Well, I'm here to jump start your week ahead and I hope you will drop in to check things out here. I would like to welcome all the newcomers who participated in last week's column. What a success, what FUN we had last week! I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for posting here. Mondays 'IN' The UGRR would NOT be possible without your support. I want you to know, as we start the New Year how grateful I am to each and every one of you for making Monday's In The UGRR a "carnival" success! I have the red carpet ready to go for all newcomers. Speaking of the New Year, 2004, I want to talk about beginnings for a moment.

Finally 2004 has arrived! The many disenfranchised voters will now have an opportunity to vote again. We should NEVER allow another election to be stolen from us again.

Governor Howard Dean started the New Year out on a note that I think reflects party unity. During the Iowa debate yesterday, he asked his fellow candidates, by a show of hands, who will support the ultimate nominee. Then Governor Dean raised his hand. I thought this was appropriate symbolism to start the beginning of our very important year. It is so important that we remain united as a party and represent the Democratic values that we as a party believe in. At the end of the process, and the process does involve voting, we as Democrats must unite behind the choice of the people. I think all the candidates are outstanding and have done a great job!

So, I raise my hand along with Governor Howard Dean as a new beginning for great things to happen for our party, the Democratic Party, and for our country.

---

Now, our dessert for the day is left over sweet potato pie. I'm drinking a cup of warm Chai tea with steamed milk. Ummmm.

Happy Beginnings !

---

Madam C.J. Walker

There was a time, not that long ago, that blacks could not vote and had very few rights. There was one black woman, believed to be America's first black millionaire, who was fearless in her lifelong quest to bring equality and dignity for blacks. Madam C.J. Walker helped pave the way for the profound social changes that altered African-American's place in American society.

Madam Walker, born in 1867, lived a painful life during the reconstruction era in our country. She was orphaned at 7, married at 14, a mother at 17, widowed at 20. While toiling as a St. Louis washerwoman during the 1890s, she began to go bald. It was that medical crisis that made her an instant Cinderella and wealthy beyond her wildest belief. Madam Walker invented a hair formula for the scalp that restored her hair. It all started with mixing ordinary ingredients in her kitchen and applying it to her own hair scalp, and it worked! She marketed her hair care product by training African-American women who post slavery were share croppers and laundresses. Madam Walker gave them the job title of "beauty culturists". She then trained the women not only how to use and sell her hair product(s) but how to dress, talk, walk, groom their hair and greet potential customers. It was all about distribution strategies as innovative as any entrepreneur of her time. She provided lucrative income for THOUSANDS of African-American women who gladly abandoned jobs that were really a continuation of paid slavery. The concept was similar to "chain selling" but it worked and soon Black women were discovering a new found beauty to grooming their hair. Head Rags worn during slavery were tossed and burned. HOORAY!

With Madam Walker's newfound wealth and prominence her activism skills kicked during the aftermath of the Civil War. She shared her wealth with the homeless, the NAACP, several black colleges and boarding schools. There are several book about the life of Madam Walker, On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker, which goes into great detail about her life. Also, Her Dream of Dreams : The Rise and Triumph of Madam C. J. Walker. I have read the first book and it is an inspiring and triumphant tale. I look forward to reading the second book that I have captioned.

Many people have never heard of Madam C.J. Walker and her accomplishments. I hope by introducing her in the UGRR you will find her story and contributions to history as inspiring as I did.


The home that Madam Walker built and designed

---

What's IN, What's OUT?

Every year we see the ALWAYS controversial what's IN/OUT lists that always give me a chuckle. Therefore, I have decided to create MY OWN IN/OUT list with a slant toward urban youth of today. I want to thank my god-daughter for helping me put this together. But hey, I think there's something for everyone on my list. Take a look! Drum roll please...........

THE OFFICIAL, MONDAYS 'IN' THE UGRR, WHAT'S IN, WHAT'S OUT LIST

OUT/ IN

• Democratic Underground (always IN )

Oprah

Tavis Smiley

HONDA

HUMMER

Rock the Boat

Rock the Vote

J-LO

Britney

Right-ON

Move-ON

Santa

BAD Santa

Homeland Security

Common Sense

Stolen Elections

Winning Elections

Multicultural

Blended

FM Radio

XM Radio

Joe Boxer

Joe Madison

Dream Teams

Mark Garragos

Gotta-Job

Mac-Job

Diamonds

Bling-Bling

SUV

SUT

Gold

Platinum

CD Players

MP3 Players

---

The Boondocks by Aaron McGruder

---

Questions Of The Day

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?

3. What is your favorite winter sport?

---

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

Very educational today. I was unaware of Madam Walker. A very interesting person.

1. I still haven't made up my mind about who to support this primary season. My ultimate issue is the defeat of Bush* come this November.

2. IN: Taking more risks; trusting myself more. Being less wishy-washy. OUT: Wasting time in the amounts I do.

3. I never really lived for any length of time where there was a real winter. So, I really never participated in winter sports. I like watching the Winter Olympics though. :shrug:

ABBB, the ultimate defeat! I would love to see * in one of those animated boxing matches getting his but kicked, big time. All the candidates against *. Fair fight? Nope. Was he fair in "winning" ? Nope. So may the animation begin!

IN: Take MORE risks, trust yourself more. (That's really very good)
OUT: Time

The winter Olympics DO count. Of course I envy you. I really don't like snow in any amount. It becomes a major problem because I like to dash and go. Snow slows you down and I would like to to go away, comeback another day.

Well, I want to thank you for always being the first to manage the FIRST PLACE POST spot! I just love you so much for your support. You ARE one of the originals. I can't "thank-you" enough.

Have a great week ahead.

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

Thanks again for pouring your time into what has become my favorite weekly feature on DU. Don't tell Skinner, but I look forward to these even more than the top 10 conservative idiots. And that's saying a lot! :D

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?

I like both Dean and Clark, but I'll vote for whoever gets the nomination. The issue that is most important to me: Get that asshole bush out of the white house, and he can take the damn Ws off the keyboards with him. :kickbush:

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?

My new year's resolution was to eat a little more junk food this year, exercise less and maybe gain a little weight.

3. What is your favorite winter sport?

Hmm, I'll have to think about that one. :o

Mondays IN The UGRR ranking right up next to the Top 10 Conservative Idiots.

Thanks for your ongoing support Zen-T. Again, you're one of our original members. You always provide a laugh like the HA HA HA laugh I received when you responded to my questions about WINTER SPORTS! Let's go to the video tape:

:o

END of the video tape.

This is the one time that I was stumped by one of my very own questions, LOL! But I loved it. You NEVER quite know what's going to happen in the UGRR on Mondays. Thanks for a great laugh Zen-T :)

ABBB and the issue at hand is getting * (I just can't STAND to type his name or the "w") OUT! YES! That's the 2004 spirit I'm looking for.

Love you,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

It's good to talk to you again after a few weeks' absence. I've missed you.

Great post today, as always. Thank God 2004 is here. 2003 bit the big one. I enjoyed hearing about Madame C.J. Walker. It made me think about how difficult it must have been for an African-American to amass a fortune in this country not so long ago. I remember reading about how Nat King Cole (one of my favorite singers, God, what a voice!) was a millionaire but still couldn't go into certainplaces to eat or stay in certain hotels. The fact that he was a wealthy man at all surprised me; it seems we lived in a social climate that would have allowed the record company execs to bilk him out of the money he earned and get away with it. For all he dealt with, I'm glad he enjoyed the wealth he earned.

Now for the questions:

1. I like both Clark and Dean, as you can tell from my sig line. I really want it to be a Clark/Dean or Dean/Clark ticket. That would be unbeatable. I like all the candidates, except for Joe Lieberman, but not all of them have the ability to win over the muttonheads who are swayed by photo ops of B*sh in a flight suit, or by the Chimp's "fearless, decisive leadership". GAG! Dean and Clark all the way, baby.

2. Short and simple. Dean or Clark IN; B*sh OUT!!!

3. I like snowmobiling. I know, I know, it hurts my environmentalist street cred, but I only do it on private property; my father-in-law's spread in the mountains. It's fun. If it helps, I oppose, unequivocally, snowmobiling in National Parks.

I've missed you, Mina. You're one of my favorite DUers. ((((((((((UGRR)))))))))) :hug:

It so good to have you back in the UGRR again. How is work? How is the family? Did you like the scrubs I posted? You are such a class act! I thought those black scrubs were so cute!

I want to thank you for being apart of Mondays IN The UGRR right from the start! I always look forward to seeing you and when I don't I start to get worried. In fact, when my adopted DU daughter didn't post for several weeks, I asked for a phone number. Yes, I love you guys like that. We're a very personal group on Mondays and I love the members and the dialogue they contribute. But Aristus, you are just so unique and well, what can I say? I just adore you!

About celebrities such as Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis, Nancy Wilson, Dorothy Dandridge, their wealth meant NOTHING to the many hotels, restaurants, casinos and theaters that booked their talent. They were told to STAY ON THE STAGE and NOT touch one single customer or fan. Of course blacks were not allowed in such places. I remember that Sammy Davis and Dorothy Dandridge had to go thru the back door and the kitchen to reach the stage. They were not allowed in the lobby to even WALK! I shake my head in disbelief when I hear such things but I think we learn from our history. The way most celebrities entertained was in their own homes and in Europe. Travel was very difficult. This I know first hand. As children, we (my brother and sister) had to hide in the back seat once when the mother of one of our white friends drove us home. Indeed, it was ugly. So you look at a woman like Madam Walker and you have to admire her. In her instance, she was born a daughter of a slave and she knew the real deal. She also traveled abroad on ships and entertained in her elegant homes.

OK, let me get to your questions.



Votes are counted in the UGRR and I see you like Dean/Clark or Clark/Dean and/or ABBB.

WOW! Snowmobiling in the mountains!! I would love to try it. I love fast cars, trucks and snowmobiles!!

Well, I welcome you back! Wishing you a wonderful, tremendous and MONUMENTAL 2004!

Love,

Mina :hug:

Thanks for the info on Madame Walker. I saw some of her products on "Antiques Roadshow" the other day.

To answer your questions:

1. I am supporting Dennis Kucinich because he supports de-criminalization of marijuana (not that I can do that stuff anymore, it just shouldn't be illegal), lifting the embargo on Cuba, and making corporations pay their fair share and not allowing them to move offshore.

2. Infertility is OUT this year for us! This WILL be our baby year (I hope)!

3. Why sledding, of course!

See you next week!

We both support DK, we're both trying to have a baby, and I was this close to saying sledding.

:hi:

We've been trying over two years with no luck. Good luck to you and your s/o!

...We got pregnant. Then, sadly, I lost the baby after a serious car accident. We started trying again right away. It's been about a little over 5 months now. The good thing is that after 2 years of trying, we got pregnant without doing anything special. So we know all our parts work.

Good luck to you and your SO, too.

:loveya:

Well, thanks for the information on Madame Walker. Just to *think* her products are now being featured on the "Antiques Roadshow", WOW! I actually saw the product in my grandparent's medicine cabinet and ignored it.



Your vote is counted. You are supporting Dennis Kucinich. Your issues, good ones, are noted.

WOW! I am hoping that you will see the "pink"/"blue" line (depending which test you use). How exciting!

Why sledding, of course ;-)

See you next week Scarlet.

Love ya,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?

Dennis Kucinich--replacing war, protecting water from privatization, restoring the Bill of Rights, returning to bilateral trade based on workers' rights and environmental protection.

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?

I hope my cane will be out and jumping and running will be in. I hope that debt will be out and savings will be in. I hope that Bush will be out...on his lying, disgusting ass.

3. What is your favorite winter sport?

Ice Skating

Thanks for stopping in RB. RB, I want to "thank you" for hanging with Mondays IN The UGRR since it's start. Your one of our original members! Here is a tight hug from me :hug:

OK, now to the questions!



Your vote is for Dennis Kucinich and your issues are noted.

Let's hope that you can retire your cane, but if you need it, I think you should be proud of it. It offers support and keeps you safe.

Here's another :hug:

Love,

Mina :loveya:

great Monday post as always. Hope you had a happy holiday and New Year.

Questions Of The Day

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries?
What issues are important to you? I'm supporting Dean. But like things about all the others. Electability is a big issue to me. I also like Deans pragmatic approach.

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?
hmmm in this year? Weight Loss, a motorcycle
Out: GW Bush

3. What is your favorite winter sport?
Skiing

Thanks so much for your kind words and thanks so much for you constant support here. You are one of the original members and I want to "thank you" so much for your constant support in the UGRR.

OK, questions!



Your vote has been recorded. I also agree about electability. Voters are so smart today and I think the internet has assisted the voting process.

IN: loose those pounds! WOW! A motorcycle, how cool.

OUT: *

Skiing! Weeeeeee! (So much fun)

Love,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

Thanks for another wonderful and thoughtful edition of Mondays IN The UGRR. I must say you do a professional job and your efforts are to be continually praised. I look forward to the edition every Monday. I did have a great time last week and look forward to many more good times, and good Mondays.

I never heard of Madam Walker before. Thanks for introducing me to another person in the history of our country.

OK, Questions.

1. I am supporting Howard Dean. I mean the dude is cool and I think he represents all the important issues . He says what's on his mind, no holding back. I will support Gov. Dean with money and with time. GO DEAN!

2. IN: DEAN OUT: BUSH

3. My favorite winter sport is the toboggan. I just love the feel of the run.

Have a great week DU and Mina.

BJ

this opportunity to "thank you" for your support of Mondays IN The UGRR .
You have been apart of the UGRR from the get-go and I appreciate it very much. Here's a :hug:

Now, let me check you out.



You like Howard Dean and think he represents all the important issues. OK, your vote is recorded.

Wow, your favorite winter sport is the tobaggon! WOW! I would LOVE to try that :)

Love and peace,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

Didn't know about Madam C.J Walker. was pretty interestng to read

I support Dean because I frankly like him the most, he seems most passionate. Issues for me are foreign politics and keeping jobs IN the us.

If I thought Kucinich could win I'd vote for him in a heartbeat.


IN .. wow I'm bad at this I pass

Winter sport.. probably figure skating. I honestly don't know alot of winter sports


See you around :D

The story of Madam C.J. Walker is fascinating and not many have ever heard of her. She is so beautiful and you know, I think of her as Cinderella, except she made her own success happen. She even owned a glass slipper!



Your votes are recorded. You think Dean is passionate. Your important issues are foreign politics and keeping jobs IN our country!

Winter sports: Today I make you, Kamika, our honorary figure skater! Enjoy:)


Love,

Mina :hug:

My first car was a Camero like the above.

Mina :hi:

heres a camaro :D

My first car was a Camero and I LOVED IT!

Hey, I'm glad your up keeping me company!

Mina :hi:

I wish it was mine :D

I have a boring Hyundai SUV

Thank you for all the information and your dancing initials - they're hypnotic.

So, here are my answers to your questions of the day:


1. I am supporting Wesley Clark because my number one issue is the removal of Bush and I believe only Clark can take the general election. If I had my druthers, I could go more by heart and less by pragmatism. The issues most important to me are:

a) universal health care
b) ending homelessness
c) ending the following of dogma rather than truth...even
when it takes one in unexpected places
d) job creation
e) tax reform
f) replace the condescending 'tolerance' with the realization
that we are all part of humanity


2. IN - Lightening up, increasing my volunteer work
OUT - too much of your sweet potato pie (yum - that's a toughie!)

3. Winter sport? running with polar bears

"Replace the condescending 'tolerance' with the realization
that we are all part of humanity"

Kickass!

do you really think so?

Thanks!

:pals:

Your Clark vote has been recorded and your issues noted. All important issues.

IN: Volunteer work (excellent)

OUT: sweet potato pie ( I can't say no to the pie )

LOL, running with polar bears!

Thanks for visiting us today.

Peace,

UGRR :hi:

:hi: Glad to see you again and thanx for the welcome to Mondays. Makes the day a lot easier. That's a good history lesson on Madame C. J. Walker. There's always room to learn more about historical figures.

Now for your questions:

1) To be determined. I'll have to research the candidates and their stands on issues before I decide. Issues important to me are social, esp. health care. My parents are old and I see their costs ratcheting up and their income is not. I see my costs rising, too, and nothing being done. Scholarship funds are drying up (as well as municipal and state budgets), but there's money for bombs and missiles to fly and blow things and people up. That doesn't sound right to me.

2) In: vacations out-of-town. Out: pain, unless it's from exercise.

3) I don't have one because I don't live in the land of winter.

Have fun and have a merry new year, Mina! :hug:

found just for YOU!



Again, I must remind all the new posters that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE argyle sweaters and socks. I also love your support of Mondays IN The UGRR Lurking Argyle and I appreciate your visits very much.

Your welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed learning about Madame C.J. Walker.

Questions:

1. Just to make sure your vote is cast properly, you need more research. Very important to know the candidate! I agree with you. Your issues are social one, like health care. Aging parents, how well I understand and things just stand still for the elderly while cost of living increases. Those billions could have helped your parents and so many other seniors. I am just outraged at the waste of funds at the hands of this administration. I feel so helpless. I hate that feeling.

IN: Vacations, lots of them!

OUT: Pain (unless from exercise, which is good.) I think exercise is good, but pain, unmanaged pain is bad. OUT !

Have a fun and Merry New Year to my favorite Argyle, always.

Love,

Mina

Welcome to 2004 Mina! I am very happy that the new year starts off with such an interesting “Monday’s in”! The story of Madame C.J. Walker and her miracle hair restoration cream, business success, and philanthropy was both informative and entertaining.

Any idea what the legacy of her product was? Did it survive past her lifetime? I ask because I’ve never heard of it before I will include her history in my next research frenzy!

Right now I am drinking a cup of lukewarm “Our Blend” coffee from the Green Mountain corporation (housed in scenic Vermont, home of Presidential candidate and Governor Howard Dean! Of course we already knew that…)

I hope your new year was as relieving as mine. I cannot describe how happy I was to watch 2003 fall by the wayside, finally, and make way for the promise of a new year.

Questions Of The Day

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?

Well, since I’m a mod I can’t really say which candidate I support, but that’s okay, I look forward to voting for him/her in the NH first in the nation primary!

What issues are important to me? Great question! I have always been a follower of foreign policy so repairing the damage done by the current misadministration to our standing in the UN is something I look forward to seeing the next President repair.

The next issue of importance to me is the state of our domestic economy and the sweeping deregulations that have turned our (admittedly) crappy business climate into the global equivalent of a pit-bull fight. I want to see the unions strengthen, OSHA strengthen, and the protections enacted following the US Industrial Revolution restored.

Finally, the issue of health care and education fight for third place. I would like to see the next President take the health care dollar away from HMOs and pharmaceutical companies and create a working single payer system akin to that in Canada or the UK. As it stands now I pay almost $400 a month for my portion of the health care offered through my place of business, and I would gladly pay the same amount in new taxes if it meant everyone could received equal treatment by doctors, dentists, hospitals, and other medical practitioners.

Ending the unfunded mandate of “no child left behind” is another important issue. It is wrong to punish students for the failure of the public education system, and that’s just what NCLB’s roster of standardized achievement tests does. The last thing underperforming schools need are resources taken away when the children there do not meet a set of overly lofty goals. The US public education system needs to hire more qualified people to teach, and I do not mean only those that have certification in teaching. I have always wanted to teach both English and History at the high-school level but my degrees in English Literature and European History are worthless in public education whereas, current teachers can teach these same subjects with only a tenth of the credits I have.

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004?

I have never been a trendy person, so this is more theoretical.

What I’d like to see in:

Helping other people
Fuel-efficient cars
A new President from the Democratic party
Macintosh Computers (we need more than 3% market-share!)
Mike Malloy
Affordable wind power kits for homeowners
Affordable rail service at the local level
Thoughtful Rap like Kwale and Prince Paul

What I’d like to see out:

Reality TV
Fox News
The “me” culture
SUVs (or at least a fair and balanced annual 100% tax on those behemoths)
Kevin Costner movies
Anything starring J-Lo/Britany Spears/Christina Aguillera/Shakira/boy bands of all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Idiot Rap like 50 Cent

3. What is your favorite winter sport?

I am torn. I prefer Kendo as a year round sport and do not associate it solely with winter, the same with Sumo. Both are my favorite sports, and both are played year round.

I guess less idealistically my favorite winter sport is shoveling snow. I haven’t skied in years and I don’t snowboard so shoveling is the closest I get to that same breath-taking exhilaration because when my driveway is finally clean I have a heap of snow the size of the Alps and I am out of breath.

And I'm SOOOOOO curious about which candidate you support.

though for a hint, the initials are the same as the initials of a favorite band. Guess which band and you'll know the candidate.

:)

I have to keep some secrets as a mod.

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

<cosanostra>Hee talka too mucha.</cosanostra> :spank:

Hello Big Mac! How are you??

You know, before I get started, I was thinking about you on New Years. Did you enjoy the movies? I actually decided to search the for movies myself on New Years. Unbelievable, I didn't find much, so perhaps I need to have you suggest some good movies for me to purchase on DVD.

Ummm, that cup of coffee you describe sounds sooo good at 10:51 PM (EST) as I type my response to you. I'm drinking water now. I would love a cold Vernor's or a nice cup of Green Mountain coffee. I like coffee at night, or tea. I like liquids, I like to stay hydrated.

ABBB, that's my motto. I enjoyed the debate yesterday, in fact, it was the best! Well, the ROCK THE VOTE debate was fun! But the tone of the debate was serious, and it should be. We're have serious issues to address. For example, "NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND". I have seen, first hand, the damage done to innocent children. Speaking of standardized achievement tests, have you heard what New York has done? When you have an opportunity Google, "New York Regents Exams". MILLIONS of children, literally have been thrown OUT of main stream public education because they can NOT graduate. It started out to actually award academic diplomas for disadvantaged students who were thrown into "shop" or "home economics". I think you understand the "code" I'm speaking about.

I think you would make a WONDERFUL teacher. I wonder why you could not sub?

I have read your other issues, especially health care. WOW, $400.00 dollars a month. And that's great! If you paid on your own, with out the benefits offered on the job, I'm sure it would be in the thousands to cover a family.

Your number one concern, foreign affairs. Oh what a mess! We need change, FAST! I think we're making poor use of "homeland security" (A NAME I HATE!) Why do I hate the name? I'm not sure, but what about The Department of Security for The United States of America? Home land, yeah, I can imagine what "home land" * is thinking about. Probably back when the pilgrims arrived on the Mayflower! Let me STOP. I'm just angry as I type this response.

The more I read your response, you sound qualified to be President !

---

I like your version of IN/OUT :)

IN: (I like these)

Helping Others
Macintosh Computers (we need more than 3% market-share!)
Mike Malloy
Affordable wind power kits for homeowners
Affordable rail service at the local level

OUT:

Fox News
The “me” culture
I am so sick of hearing about Benlo/Jenben/BennerJen, WHAT EVER ALREADY! And PLEASE GO AWAY BRITNEY with your husband who loves you. Oh, I forgot, it's annulled. I heard they whisked her away to Never land.

It's all a joke, of course, but it's silly and a waste of news space.

I'm getting cranky LOL! My back hurts and I can't get that great cup of coffee out of my head now?

What to do?? Well, I live near a 24/7, 7-11 store. They sell all kinds of coffee, but not your brand. I need to go to my mall to purchase it. I always buy a bag when I go, but I forgot over the holidays to pick it up. In the meantime I have Gevalia! That's good.

Kendo, WOW! How interesting? I know absolutely nothing about the sport. I'll place it on my "to do" Google list. I love research and I love *MY* Mac, BIG MAC :) I always think of you when I'm typing and this lap top that I love so much.

How is your son, your wife?

Well, I will close this post wishing you and yours a wonderful New Year and I'm going to save this post. Let's compare everything at the end of the year. That should be fun! We're going to win BIG MAC!

BTW, I want to thank you for supporting Mondays IN The UGRR. You are one of the original members! I would not have the success of this column without your help, your commentary, your friendship. :hug:

Love you,

Mina :loveya:

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?
Kucinich, war n peace, social and economic justice, the death penalty, oy so much :)
2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?
In
the more outgoing Kleeb
Kleeb having a date
Kleeb having a cell phone
Democrats
Out
the shy Kleeb
Single Kleeb
Kleeb without a cell phone
Republicans
:)
3. What is your favorite winter sport?
basketball
You gotta see my shot, its hilarious.

"Kleeb without a cell phone"
actually thats kinda how I feel about my motorcycle.
Keep fightin the good fight you do...

Thanks
Oh since you brought up motorcycle
Me without a permit and or license is out too
I am getting those soon.

Hi Mr. JohnKleeb :-) How are you? Getting in those naps :)

I know how much you value your sleep! Thanks for dropping in to say hello and I want to thank you for your ongoing support in the UGRR! I appreciate your posts here.



OK, your vote has been recorded. You support Dennis Kucinich and your issues are noted in your post. Your list sounds like a song I love by the Temptations titled BALL OF CONFUSION!

---

Ball of Confusion
Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong; 1968


People moving out, people moving in
Why, because of the color of their skin
Run, run, run but you sure can't hide

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth
Vote for me and I'll set you free
Rap on, brother, rap on

Well, the only person talking 'bout 'love thy brother'
Is the preacher
And it seems nobody's interested in learning
But the teacher

Segregation, determination, demonstration, integration
Aggravation, humiliation, obligation to our nation

Ball of confusion
That's what the world is today, hey hey

The sale of crack's at an all time high
Young folks walking round with their heads in the sky
The cities ablaze in the summertime
And the beat goes on

Evolution, revolution, gun control, sound of soul
Shooting rockets to the moon
Kids growing up too soon

Politicians say more taxes will solve everything
And the band played on
So, round and around and around we go
Where the world's head is at, nobody knows

Oh, Great Googamooga, can't you hear me talking to you
Just a ball of confusion, oh yeah
That's what the world is today, hey

Fear in the air, tension everywhere
Unemployment rising fast, the Temps new record's a gas
And the only safe place to live is on an indian reservation
And the band played on

Eve of destruction, tax deduction
City inspectors, bill collectors
Mod clothes in demand, population out of hand
Suicide, too many bills, hippies moving to the hills
People all over the world are shouting end the war
And the band played on

Great Googamooga, can't you hear me talking to you
It's a ball of confusion

That's what the world is today, hey
Let me hear you, let me hear you, let me hear you

Ball of confusion
That's what the world is today, hey

Oh, let me hear you
Ball of confusion
That's what the world is today
Hey Hey

---

OK, I'm LOVIN your IN/OUT list:

IN: JohnKleeb having a date, a cell phone, more outgoing YOU!
OUT: The SHY YOU, the single YOU, the NO cellphone YOU, LOL John!

Attention: John loves basketball!

John, your da bomb! It's all good in this case.

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

you forgot about the car part :). Yeah basketball is one of my favorites, dont really have a favorite team but I do like Celtics and Kings.

Car?

I didn't see a wish for a car in the post, but I'm granting wishes today.

What kind of car would you like and I'll make it appear, just for you!

Again, that post is soooooooo, well, it makes me want to reach out and give you a :hug:.

OK, what kind of car would you like?

Mina :hi:

but I wouldnt mind a honda civic with automatic transmission. I had no idea I cracked you up with that :). 2004 is gonna be great, I am finally gonna get to see Beantown and my Orioles go all the way :), and hopefully Kucinich too, a boy can dream cant he lol, or just winning the presidency period would be nice.

John, continue to dream your dreams. You know, Mr. Kucinich might read your posts and one day offer you a great job!

I'll see you on the road, in your car, with your cell phone, at the game, at the White House.

Dream on!

Peace,

Mina :loveya:

I just love saying hello to a great friend of Mondays IN The UGRR. I would like to take this opportunity to "thank-you" for your support of Mondays IN The UGRR. I appreciate it so much Crew and you have been my friend at DU from day one. I always appreciated your kinds words here. But I always enjoy your posts. Here's a :hug:.

I'm so glad you enjoyed the fire truck and I just enjoyed the Christmas thread so much. In spite of the diversity here in the UGRR, the thread managed to pay tribute to everyone. Just wonderful! That fire truck brought back so many memories. We didn't have Play Stations and Video Games. Actually, TV was just being invented! (Yes, folk, I'm THAT old). So we enjoyed our Fire Trucks, Fire Hats, Doctor Bags, Dolls, Building Logs, and Bikes. Simple toys, basic toys like that. Thanks so much for mentioning the Christmas thread. It was just BEAUTIFUL!

Now, let's talk turkey, or pumpkin/sweet potato pie :)

---

You are supporting General Wesley Clark. Why? He can stand toe-to-toe with * and remain in a compassionate light. Excellent!

I see that one of your concerns if about the War draft. Now, that's very interesting. Of course I am from the era of military drafting and I have lost many of my friends in Viet Nam. Could the draft return? Of course! This is an EXCELLENT issue and I hope readers and members will remember this issue in the months ahead. It would be devastating if the draft were to return.

---

IN: CLARK

OUT: *

---

Where do you find those great emotion cons? I LOVE THEM!

Thanks you so much for your kind words Crew!

Love, and Happy 2004!

Mina :hug: :loveya:

Questions Of The Day

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?
I'm supporting Kucinich, Dean, Kerry, Clark, Sharpton, Edwards, Gephardt, Mosely-Braun, and Lieberman ... in somewhat that order, changing depending on the issue and perceived political viability.

Civil, social, and economic equity is, by far, the foremost 'issue' for me ... human rights and honoring labor above capital. While I'm not a 'socialist' per se, we're so far from being the "American ideal" (and getting further every day) that I don't see how anything short of another 'revolution' can sufficiently change our course. We're more under the heel of "robber barons" today that at any time in our history. We've become all that I abhor and more about so-called "banana republic." Batista would be at home with the current regime.


2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?
Hugs are still IN ... and IN/OUT is OUT. :silly:


3. What is your favorite winter sport?
Hot-tubbing, dominoes, and pillow-fights. (I detest snow and cold.)

right now for a COLD mug of Vernor's TN. Oh, how I just LOVE the taste of that stuff. Funny, when someone gave me my first ginger-ale, I told them "this isn't ginger-ale". Then they showed me the bottle. It was all I ever knew! Oh well, I still don't think there is a ginger-ale on earth that compares.

Oh, I would like a BIG BOY while your at it TN :)


OK, enough goofing-off. I agree, I want ABBB, I repeat, ABBB, ABBB, ABBB, ABBB, etc.

I still want the VERNOR'S too. :(

---

IN: :hug:

OUT: NO :hug:

---

LOL, you DETEST SNOW AND COLD. Again, I want a VERNOR'S ;-)

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?

I support Howard Dean, I'll support any who get's the nod.

Honestly I like them all better than the Bozo in the oval office.

the most important issues for me
are Healthcare (I have none and neither does my husband
we can't afford $800.00 for full insurace)
Childrens issues such as abuse neglect , early childhood
education and intervention.
The Constitution preserving and protecting it .
Evironmental policies to reverse everything bush has done
to our health and safety by gutting protections .
Terrorism and security to the nation , I think this is very
important , I just disagree with the way bush handling it ,
seems he makes us less safe .

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?
x box is in for me this year



3. What is your favorite winter sport?
I don't like winter sports , It's too cold .

edited to add Hot Tubbing , I like that I just read
TahitNut's response :D

I want to thank you for always posting in Mondays IN The UGRR. You have been just terrific! You're a great moderator PP and I appreciate all of your help in the lounge. You are a 100% CLASS ACT! Thanks !

You support Howard Dean but you'll support the candidate that get's the nod.

I love your issues such as Health Care, Children's Rights and their protection, the environment and security to the nation.
All EXCELLENT issues!

IN: X-BOX!

LOL, I hear you! Get comfy and play. Your a great Mother PP.

As for Winter sports? Yes, I don't like cold or snow in spite of the fact I lived in it all my life.

IN for UGRR: A new climate

But Hot Tubbing is soooooo cool! I've tried it and I like it!

PP, have a wonderful 2004. May all your dreams come true for you!!

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

:hug:

As I sit here with my cup of MacNab's Vanilla Almond tea (and no pie) it's good to be back in the UGRR for another week.

I just love Boondocks! Thanks for my weekly fix. And the information on Madame Walker is enlightening. Thank you.

I saw Howard Dean ask that question about unity. I think he was just the first to make the statement. I'm convinced there will be tremendous loyalty behind our nominee. We have to defeat the BFEE.

Question time:
1) I am supporting, and working for, John Kerry. I am convinced he has the best all-around experience to be President. I'm impressed especially by his environmental and foreign affairs experience. He's actually had face-to-face meetings with Kofi Annan over the years, for one example.

The most important issues for me are civil liberties, jobs/economy, education, women's rights, the US's role in the world.

2)OUT:
Negativism - I have to be more positive
Living like a pack rat - I am going to clean things out of my house
Republicans in the White House
The 50 or so pounds I have left to lose

IN:
Regular exercise
Eating healthy
Positive outlook (see above)
A Democratic sweep in November

3)I live at a ski resort so I'd have to say skiing although I don't downhill ski now because of bad knees. I'm working out with cross-country skiing and now I'm trying snowshoeing. I've never been a great iceskater but I own skates and we go occasionally.

Happy Monday. Have a great week!

:yourock:

Well, as I sit here with my glass of San Pellegrino, typing my late response to you, your cup of MacNab's VanillaAlmond tea sounds so good! I have been fascinated with hot beverages today in the UGRR. Big Mac was drinking "OUR BLEND" of Green Mountain Coffee, which I also love. As I stated in his post, I drink LOTS of liquids. They keep me hydrated and healthy.

I'm glad you enjoyed todays feature on Madam Walker. MaineDem, you would LOVE the book! I just know it!! Just think your cup of MacNab's Vanilla Almond tea and Madam Walkers journey from day one and it IS a journey. But, you will read about a woman who changed the world! Then we can talk about in the UGRR! I'm almost feeling like Oprah's book club. Only MINA'S BOOK CLUB!

OH, guess what! I just received this very important book from Amazon.com. IT IS: SUPER FOODS Fourteen Foods That Will Change Your Life The authors are Steven Pratt, MD and Kathy Matthews. See, you do inspire me. I'm going follow the book, and prepare the foods in the book using the 14 foods as a guideline. Have you heard of the book?

---

OK, questions!



I see your supporting John Kerry and your vote has been noted. Bush is not comfortable with Kofi Annan and The United Nations as that's a problem. SO I agree, foreign affairs is a very important issue.

I also agree that civil liberties, good jobs, well-paying jobs are very important. Most important is your issue about the US's role in the world. Not good at this time.

---

OUT: Negativity, getting more organized, Republicans, and 50 pounds that need to go.
IN: Being more positive, eating healthy (I know you do), and, of course, a Democratic sweep in November.

---

I ask about the winter sports because I have always lived in a climate that has snow, sometimes, heavy snow. I also like to ice skate and ski. How wonderful, you live at a ski resort! WOW! What is Snowshoeing? Never heard of that. But I am so happy with the many responses. My UGRR's have a diverse interest in winter sports, several sports I have never heard of.

---

In closing Maine Dem I want to "thank you" so much for your consistent support of Mondays IN The UGRR. You are one of the original members of the UGRR and we're still together. One major think, we are consistent. It's really great!

Well, time to sign-off. But I had to get your response typed before I go to bed so it would be waiting for you.

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

Great read, as usual! Now, about that sweet potato pie... ;)

for checking things out today.

Now, about THAT sweet potato pie ;-)

See you next week and thanks for posting Padraig, I really appreciate it.

Love,

Mina :hug:

But sweet potato pie is bad start to my New Year's promise to cut down on the desserts.

So, where do I start? I love the commentary that starts your UGRR Column today and I agree with Howard Dean. I'm raising my hand :thumbup: I have heard of Madam CJ Walker before. What an interesting person she is and I think I'll buy the book. Sure to be an interesting read to pass the winter (while drinking my tea). I LOVE the IN/OUT list so much fun to see this in the UGRR MIna. WOW! So many special things and you just present it with a great big bow.

Questions:

1. I support Howard Dean. Health care is a very important issue to me. All Americans should have affordable health care.

2. IN: Less Carbs OUT: Sweet Potato pies, cookies, ice-cream and cake. Also Pizza.

3. I love ice skating.

Have a great day Mina and I love everything you do for DU.

Love you,

GoGo

I'm sorry for the late response, but I do read each and every post!

I want to "thank you" for your support in the UGRR on Mondays. I remember you so well joining in our thread on a regular basis. Thanks so much for your participation every Monday.

---

OK, on to the questions!



Your support for Howard Dean has been noted. Your issue of health care is an important one.

---

IN: Less Carbs!
OUT LOW Carbs!

Sounds like an excellent plan GoGo! As a matter of fact, I'm cutting down on my Carb intake.

You love ice skating. So do I.

Have a great week ahead gogo and Happy 2004!

Love,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

...have a recipe? In Brazil we mostly use sweet potatoes the way normal potatos would be used -- side dishes in meals mostly. Also, there's a marmalade-like candy made of it.

Nice story of enterpreneurship, although this skeptic's alarm bells go off like crazy at the mention of "baldness-curing" concoctions.

The questions:

1)
Furrinah. N/A.
2)
IN: Debian and derivatives. OUT: Red Hat and derivatives.
IN: Tit for tat. OUT: Subservience.
IN: Time with family. OUT: Overworked. (I hope)
3)
N/A. The four seasons down here are Hot, Damn Hot, Furnace, and Hell. Although this Hell, I mean summer, is so far mercifully tame.

On edit: did any of the other candidates NOT raise the hand?

What an outrage.

IN: Time with family
OUT: Red Hats, being overworked.

Yes, all the candidates raised their hand.

Nice that you stopped in to say hello.

Sorry for the late night response.

Best wishes,

UGRR :hi:

These are two variants of the Linux operating system ("distributions" or "distros" in Linux lingo). They use slightly different technologies for packaging/installing software, and I'm starting to like the "Debian way" more.

Debian is a worldwide community. Red Hat is a company in Raleigh, NC. They recently spawned a not-for-profit distro, Fedora.

My pet distro nowadays is Knoppix - a Debian derivative, but you can use it without installing, boot the PC with the Knoppix CD in the drive and you get a complete environment.

Geekily yours, :hippie:
Juan

1. Don't EVEN get me started! :evilgrin:

2. Eh...things I like are IN...everything I loathe is OUT! :D

3. LSU~THE *LEGIT* NATIONAL CHAMPIONS OF COLLEGE FOOTBALL! GEAUX FIGHTIN' TIGERS!!! :o :o AND THAT'S MY FINAL ANSWER!:bounce:


A GREAT Monday and NEW YEAR in the UGRR...Peace to you Mina! :hug: :loveya:

Always,

~Amber~ :)

I want to thank you so much for being a great contributor of Mondays IN The Undergroundrailroad! I appreciate your comments, your posts, your presence IN the UGRR every Monday. Thanks Amber and have a great rest of your week.

---

IN: Everything good!

OUT: Everything bad!

I like it, I like it!

---

Winter sports? THE *LEGIT* NATIONAL CHAMPIONS OF COLLEGE FOOTBALL! GEAUX FIGHTIN' TIGERS!!! :o :o AND THAT'S MY FINAL ANSWER!

You GO Amber! JUST THE FACTS PLEASE, LOL!

I just love your visits. See you next week.

Love,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

...always look forward to Monday's....it never fails to be interesting and fun IN THE UGRR!! Always appreciate bein' appreciated and welcomed!! Wishin' you and yours a great week as well! :loveya:

Number one I'm gonna skip because I don't wanna be accused of bias...ever.

Number two: In for me...The Green Bay Packers-they always are!
Out for me...Scrapbooking. I've lost the time to do it.:(

Number Three: My favorite winter sport---Napping! What's that you say? not a sport??

Hugs, Laura

I am up at 3:30AM typing your response. I have been reading and writing tonight. Great UGRR today.

OH! I want to take this opportunity to "thank you" for your support in the UGRR! I always enjoy your posts and your just a lot of fun!

OK, like those INS/OUTS :)

Yours are:

IN: The Green Bay Packers!
OUT: Scrap-booking. Awe, Laura! I love Scrap-booking because, well, it organizes my memories and thoughts.

For a few years, I had to put it on hold. What I did was created boxes, each labeled with names, years, and index cards to record the contents. It was fun going through the boxes. My Grand Canyon Box included dirt/rocks from the actual Grand Canyon. I just LOVED that trip.

Your favorite winter sport is? Napping! I would say it is a sport!

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

http://tps.cr.nps.gov/nhl/detail.cfm?ResourceId=1817&ResourceType=Building

and it's currently open to the public!

Thanks for that. :)

UGRR

:kick:

1. Howard Dean is my pick. I want integrity restored to the White House! When was the last time we had a man of integrity at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue?

2. OUT: the old, angry, lazy me! IN: The new, healthier, kinder me!

3. Just walking around; I don't do much

I want to thank you for visiting the UGRR and supporting the UGRR! I appreciate your visits very much. Thanks ih8thegop (I love saying that name!).

---

OK, time to talk turkey!



Your vote for Howard Dean has been recorded. Your issues are basic. You want integrity restored to the White House! I couldn't agree more with the integrity issue.

IN: New, Healthier, kinder :), YOU!

OUT: Angry, lazy, etc.

Well, in my book your always kind. Just don't forget that ih8thegop! :)

Have a great week ahead!

Love,

Mina :loveya: :hug:

Thank you for yet another history lesson. I may seek out that book about Madam CJ Walker.

I have a question...the house that you show, is it in St Louis? It looks like a house on Lindell Blvd in St Louis near Forest Park. Did Madam CJ remain in St Louis once she made her money?

Now to answer YOUR questions...

Questions Of The Day

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? KUCINICH: Voting my hopes not my fears.

What issues are important to you?
Overtime pay, erosion of civil liberties and access to health care. I support universal health care.

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?
IN: Working for change
OUT: BUSH or so I hope!

3. What is your favorite winter sport?
I'm not really into sports but if I was forced to choose one it would be skiing even though I have never done it, I do enjoy watching it on TV.

I think you would LOVE the Madam Walker Book! I wish I had extra copies, I would give them out to whomever wanted them. That book is such an interesting read, I couldn't put in down.

I want to take this opportunity to "thank you" Ikojo for your visits to Mondays IN The UGRR. Your support makes this place so special. I really appreciate your visits.

OK, let's check you out!

---

Your vote has been recorded in the UGRR and your issues noted. You are supporting Dennis Kucinich.

I liked this comment: "Voting my hopes not my fears"
That's very nice Ikojo.

---

IN: Employment (I wish you so much luck!) Here's a good luck :hug:

OUT: BUSH! Oh PLEASE! I don't even want to think about it.

---

Your favorite winter sport, as a spectator, is skiing! Very nice choice.

Have a great week and I will see you next week Ikojo.

Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

I have read your threads before but now I am determined to make it a habit, because this one really rocked!

1) I have donated to Clark and Kucinich. As for issues, it's too late for me to think of anything serious to say...
2) IN: I will be getting a new job / OUT: I will be moving out of my freezing little house! Stay tuned...
3) My favorite winter sport is SLEEPING, which I am about to do. It's two degrees below zero where I am now so I gotta pile on the blankets. Good night!

Edit: Ha! I got this in right before Monday ended at 11:59pm (mountain time)

Allow me to give you a special greeting! Welcome to Mondays IN The UGRR a "meet-up" on Mondays where, as a group, we are growing by leaps and bounds. Welcome eileen_d to our Monday "bunch" as Maine Dem coined that phrase. It is just about a perfect Monday (and Tuesday) as you ever will have among fellow DUers where we meet, greet, answer questions of the day and ignore the heck out of spell check. I try to jump start your week ahead. I read and respond to each and every post. I'm glad you've decided to join us!

---

Your comments have been noted. If you would like to comment further, feel free to do so, or you can just wait until next week. Generally, we don't discuss politics in the UGRR. I am very proud at the way we were able to have a conversation about the candidates and their issues. WE DID IT! No PA at all. I'm so proud of Mondays IN the UGRR. We are a special bunch.

---

IN: New Job (fingers crossed)
OUT: Moving on! (keep us informed!)

---

Your winter sport is SLEEPING. Three cheers for that deep sleep that I crave on those cold, chilly winter nights!

Sweet dreams eileen! Thanks for dropping into the UGRR and checking things out here.

I will see you next week!

Love and peace,

Mina (UGRR) :hug: :hi:

It was an awful Monday, so my post is actually Tuesday, but what the heck.

Loved the info about Madam Walker! Talk about making lemonade from lemons! She must have been the one the expression was invented for! I love your posts about African-American history. I feel like I am back in college, and this is an elective I took just for pleasure!

Yummy, yummy, sweet potato pie!

Since I live in Nevada, where there is no primary, I do not have to choose a candidate. I do, however, love all our candidates, except Lieberman. I think the most charming one by far is CMB. She is my son's candidate, and my brother-in-law really likes her, too. I am just really an ABB person. The social issues are what is most important to me. I believe, as did the great Democrat Hubert Humphrey, that how we treat the poor, the children, and the elderly says the most about us as a people.

I have no clue what is out and what is in, but for me personally, as a New Year's resolution, pessimism (in all aspects of my life) is OUT, and optimism is IN.

My favorite winter sport is ice skating. (Not that I know how to do it..I just love to watch it. It is artistry in my opinion.

Don't worry about Tuesdays. For the last three weeks, I've been typing on Tuesdays.

Really, if the thread is up, anyone is welcome to jump in and I will read/reply to the posts.

So you liked hearing about Madam C.J. Walker! I like your comparison to making lemonade from lemons! From what I understand, she used everyday kitchen/personal herbs, etc. ingredients to formulate her hair balm. Her marketing skills were just so perfect! She also made African-American women feel beautiful for the first time, teaching them how to groom their beautiful hair. I used to see the product in my grandparent's home and always liked the way the container looked with Madam Walker and her beautiful long hair.

I'm so happy that I am able to bring something about African-American history in the hearts of so many. We have so much history, but how much is it told? During African-American month? I find that so unacceptable.

I am also an ABB person. Wasn't CMB beautiful and elegant in the last debate. She is also "living" history, being the first black and woman United States Senator of ILL. I'm just so proud of her and her accomplishments. She is paving the way for more African-American women to join politics and make great accomplishments in public life.

---

IN: Positive thinking ( optimism)
OUT: Negative thinking (pessimism)

I like those thoughts and will add them to my list.

Finally, you like to ice skate. So do I. As a very young girl my mother purchased ice-skates for me and I enjoyed it in spite of the cold weather. I would dress very, very warm in layers of clothing and take to the rink. We had an outdoor and indoor rink. I also took lessons for a bit, but soon I realized that I didn't want to be a professional ice-skater, jut a regular kid enjoying the sport, falls and all. Later, as a teen, I continued to ice-skate with my friends. It was always a peaceful sport for me. I could skate around the rink, thinking my personal thoughts on the beauty of the ice. I think if I had continued the lessons, I might have done it for the Olympics, that was the hope of my mother. It was not to be.

Here is something for you sweetpatatapie :)



Love,

Mina :hug: :loveya:

The pie and Chai tea look and sound delicious!

1. What candidate are you supporting in the Democratic primaries? What issues are important to you?

I like Dean and or Clark. The most important thing to me is getting that shrub out of my WH :D

2. What's IN and OUT for YOU in 2004 ?

What's IN: optimism

What's OUT: procrastination


3. What is your favorite winter sport?

I don't have one really... I'm a California girl. Never liked being cold :scared:

tea, creamers, etc.

So, how are you Amaya (that's a beautiful name!)? Hope your Tuesday is starting off on a positive note.

---

OK, your candidates, your issues: ABBB, but you like Clark and Dean. Great! Your vote has been recorded in our little lock box :)

---

IN: optimism

OUT: procrastination

EXCELLENT! 2004 DOES represent optimism to me! Hope.

---

Cold, cold go away, come back ANOTHER day :(
I agree, I don't like cold, snow, or snow-related chores. I always saw the snow as an exchange for the benefits of living in New York, a city I just ADORE. I wasn't born here, far from it. But I love Long Island, and in fact, I live just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean and in the summer it is breathtaking.

Have a great rest of your week Amaya!

Love,

Mina :loveya: :hug: