By Sharon Wood . Presents or presence? . I like presents—both the receiving and the giving of them.  I enjoy picking out a little something for my family and close friends, but to be honest, I can’t tell you much about the gifts I’ve received over my almost 60 Christmases. I do,...

With Thanksgiving behind us there is little doubt we are now in Christmas season! Are you shopping? Buying presents? Making lists? Gaining weight? Maneuvering in increased traffic? Untangling lights and climbing ladders? Have the holiday parties begun? (Why are there always December parties? Are the other 11 months just not good...