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'Unitaskers' And Other Foodie Gifts We Don't Need

A man takes a closer look at kitchen appliances while shopping at a Bed Bath & Beyond store in New York. Lucas Jackson/Reuters/Landov hide caption

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Lucas Jackson/Reuters/Landov

The Salt

'Unitaskers' And Other Foodie Gifts We Don't Need

December 19, 2012 • How do you resist foodie trinkets that look and sound so whimsical and delicious? Here's our guide to spotting the most useless stuff that your relatives will thank you for not buying them this year.

Gift Giving: It Isn't Just The Thought That Counts

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Opinion

13.7: Cosmos And Culture

Gift Giving: It Isn't Just The Thought That Counts

December 15, 2012 • When giving gifts this holiday season, it's not (only) the thought that counts. The gift itself really counts for something, too. Although you may want to give thought to giving an ephemeral experience over an object that will last forever.

The Salt

For Russians, New Year's Eve Remains The Superholiday

December 27, 2011 • In Russia, New Year's reigns supreme as the food holiday, even though Christmas returned with the end of the Soviet Union. Russian immigrants in the United States continue the tradition, which demands a nightlong feast of herring, caviar, pickles, salami, and — well, that's just for starters.

Our drive to eat more in the winter may be a product of less sunlight — or more temptation around us. iStockphoto.com hide caption

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iStockphoto.com

The Salt

Why Are We More Hungry In The Winter?

December 19, 2011 • When winter arrives, many of us want to eat more. Some experts say it's a vestige of biology: the drive to hoard calories like chipmunks. Others say it's because we have more opportunities to eat — parties, holiday gatherings and other events of the season.

Why Are We More Hungry In The Winter?

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