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Grab your jacket and your binoculars. Even as temperatures drop, cities are rife with great spots to see some fascinating avian species. By Ted Levin
The facility is pulling off a major renovation — an improved giant tank to hold more animals than ever — and doing it in public view. By Michael Fitzgerald
Best of the New 2012
Best of the New: Food
Barbecue pork pie, a Somerville speak-easy, Mission-style burritos, and the latest from Michael Schlow.
Cooking
3 recipes for holiday cookies
Chocolate-peppermint treats perfect for holiday eating and giving. By Adam Ried
A Restaurant’s Take
Chocolate-peppermint cupcake
At Sweet bakery’s four locations, a holidays-only treat.
First Person
Christmas decorating done big
For 13 years, Saugus resident Michael Conlon has entertained thousands driving by his spectacularly illuminated house on Lynn Fells Parkway.
Connections
A senior citizen’s Superwoman moment
Not thrilled by my impending birthday, I got a chance to feel young again through an encounter at the pool. By Robine Andrau
On the Block
For sale: Landmark homes
These antique properties--in Hudson, Dedham, and Beacon Hill--command attention.
Style Watch
The writer’s lair
Known for his bleeding edge medical thrillers, author Robin Cook does some of his writing from a Beacon Hill study that recalls a much earlier era. By Marni Elyse Katz
Your Week Ahead
5 things to do in and around town this week
Shopping by moonlight, tunes for tykes, and more.
Out and About
Photos: As seen around town
Patriotism, tradition, and a mascot with time on his paws.
One-Liners
The funnyman, performing in town at the end of December, makes a joke on Twitter.
Blind date on a cold night
