I am finally in the holiday spirit, but I didn't really have a choice. My office held its holiday party this evening, so I had to be happy and friendly and ready to nosh.

Let me tell you: It was tough, but I did it.

You see, today would have been the 90th birthday of my maternal grandmother. She's been gone nearly 24 years, but I always think of her on this day. I wasn't quite 11 when she died, but I have very vivid memories: the movies (and the pre-movie trip to the drugstore for candy), the shopping (and the pre-shopping lunch), writing complaint letters to corporations (Nabisco and Swatch) and the composing of school reports (trip to Washington, D.C.).

And so, on this evening of eating, drinking and being merry, I raised a toast to grandma. I will always remember you.