Living

A traditional cornucopia is a classic centerpiece to grace your Thanksgiving table.

What are you thankful for? On Thanksgiving, millions of us sit shoulder to shoulder at the dinner table with friends and loved ones, casual acquaintances, even strangers.

It's that time again — to start holiday shopping. In any year, the experience can be stressful, with crowds, traffic and hunting for the perfect gifts. But this year in particular, the holidays will also be a financial strain for some as job losses, pending layoffs, higher utility bills and the loss of savings and investments might cut into family shopping budgets.

WASHINGTON — Scientists have discovered how stress — in the form of emotional, mental or physical tension — physically reshapes the brain and causes long-lasting harm to humans and animals.