Santa's not the only one who has helpers. In just a week, on Christmas Eve, my 4-year-old nephew and 8-year-old niece will be at my side, ready to carry out our annual tradition of passing out gifts ...

Books for Dad. Springy toys for the cats. DVDs for my Uncle Keith. I've already started checking off the gifts for friends, family and pets on this year's holiday list. But the most difficult gifts ...