If someone "dropped the ball," what did they do?

Accidentally and unknowingly ruined a surprise

Made a mistake on something they were responsible for

A person who "hit below the belt" is someone who...

...did or said something unfair or cruel.

...found themselves in a situation they couldn't resolve.

...missed a target they thought they could hit.

...was expected to grow taller, but for some reason didn't.

An event that is "par for the course" is an event that is...

Someone who "throws in the towel" is someone who is...

...washing everything they own that is dirty.

"If you're going to talk the talk, then you'd better walk the walk." What does this expression mean?

If you want something, you must work hard to achieve it.

If you fail at something, you need to try again.

If you have influence over others, you must be careful with what you say.

If you say something, you need to back it up with your actions.