Europe

A Dutchman planned to use a crane to perch himself outside his girlfriend's window. He wanted to serenade her before popping the question. Even though the crane tipped over, she said yes.

Russia, China and other emerging market countries have been buying up large quantities of gold, something governments and individuals have done for centuries during uncertain economic times.

A rooster crowing in the dead of night? A sinister ice-cream truck on the streets of Moscow? No, it's the musical automaton clock at the Puppet Theater in Russia.

The hottest Christmas trend — at least according to a London ad agency — is Beard Baubles: tiny ornaments to hang on facial hair. NPR's Scott Simon ponders the ramifications of this fashion statement.

Lord of the Rings fans wanted to build a giant Eye of Sauron atop a skyscraper in Moscow, a place that already can make you feel you're being watched. The Orthodox church had officials scrap the plan.