It is a known fact in my family that starting around November, I become the grinch. All the Christmas hoop-lah before Thanksgiving is just too much for me. Too much commercialism, instead of the real meaning of Christmas -- Christ, family, and friends.

This year, to keep in the spirit I purchased a grinch hat, and yes, I have worn it. The only problem with being the grinch is I have never actually seen the movie. Never really saw a reason too. However, my neighbor's daughter has changed my mind.

I stepped over to Donna's house the other night to show her the purchase I had made while shopping that day. I had found a Christmas ornament of the grinch handing a gift to a little blonde girl. "Look!" I said to Donna, "It's me, handing my daughter Esther a gift!" Donna's daughter, Denise, proceeded to tell how she loved the grinch and how she had a collection of grinch things. After proclaiming that indeed I was the grinch -- Denise asked me this question, "Do you know why I love the grinch?" "No," I replied, "Why would anyone love the grinch?" To which Denise replied, "Because the grinch has the biggest heart of all!!"

Talk about a let down! I told them I was going out into the driveway to smash the ornament at once, which I did not. Actually, what I think I am going to do, is rent the movie this weekend and watch it with my kids!!

Merry Christmas to all those and I know and love, even you Denise!! And yes, the ornament of the grinch and the little blonde girl hangs proudly on my tree!!!