Christians know that Christmas should be, as the Rev. Brad Palmore of Columbia Church of Christ puts it, about more than the fight for the coolest toy. But during the hectic pace of the holidays, and yes, that desperate search for a longed-for toy, it can be hard to impart the true meaning of Christmas. [...]

“This year I’m going to be organized. I’m not waiting until the last minute.” Each year, many of us make this emphatic proclamation, only to find ourselves sprinting through the mall a week before Christmas, standing in long lines at the post office and jockeying between endless holiday parties. One minute fall is showcasing its [...]

Zach Swope was nervous as he pulled the big No. 16 jersey over his head, laced up his Nikes and prepared to take the field at the Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium for a few pre-game warmup tosses alongside Detroit Lions quarterback Joey Harrington. It was just a preseason game, but Swope’s anxiety was understandable _ [...]

Danielle Gallina thought her daughter Leah, was a picky eater. Then along came her son, Luke. “Leah (now 5) would only eat yogurt that was pink not blue, or cheese that was white not orange, or eggs that are scrambled not fried,” says Gallina. “But Luke (1 1/2) won’t eat any yogurt or cheese or [...]