A DNA test taught me about my dog — and some new vocabulary words

My sweet scruffy girl Juniper doesn't have a beard, she has "furnishings."

Meet the winning bakers of the 20th annual Star Tribune Holiday Cookie Contest

These five bakers won us over with sugar, spice and everything nice.

Why Giants Ridge is the most underrated ski area in the Midwest

Iron Range landscapes, veteran management and a family focus make the Giants Ridge ski experience top-notch.

5 ways to save on your heating bill this winter

Home heating costs are expected to be at their highest in more than a decade.

17 Twin Cities area bars and restaurants with retail spaces perfect for holiday shopping

In the name of efficiency, dine first and shop later.

St. Paul architect's 'diamond in the rough' home shines after award-winning remodel

The work of Marcel Breuer provided inspiration for a 1910 Crocus Hill bungalow's top-to-bottom redo that won a Home of the Month.

Review: 'Book Lovers,' by Emily Henry

Books in brief

Dayton's 8th floor holiday show figures return, at 50th and France

Window display helps refurbish 34 figurines collected by Hennepin Theatre Trust.

Review: 'Georgiana & Kitty' are forward-thinking friends in Jungle Theater comedy

The third holiday show inspired by "Pride and Prejudice" is another winner.

TV shows to watch this week: Dolly Parton saves Christmas special with old-time religion

Neal Justin also recommends "George & Tammy," "Mary Hanson Show" and "Stutz."

St. Paul firehouse dog helps rescue the rescuers: 'It's just her presence'

The trained service dog helps first responders deal with the pressures of their work.

The 5 best things we ate in the Twin Cities (and beyond) this week

The Taste team shares the highlights of their weekly dining experiences.

Critics' picks: The 14 best things to do and see in the Twin Cities this week

Critics' picks for entertainment in the week ahead.

22 Twin Cities area light shows and tree lightings add holiday cheer

These options across the Twin Cities area aim to put your family in a festive mood.

Lileks: Does a bigger store just mean an emptier store?

The shelves are like a retail version of a bedroom for a kid who left for college.

News of the Weird: Archaeologists report finding Santa's grave

Ask Amy: Relationship with ex is irksome