Do you prefer to keep your blood circulation in tact? This is the best shapewear for you (really!).

Shapewear has come a long way (you know, from lace-up corsets and stuff). Most of us aren’t willing to wear control-top pantyhose every day or want to avoid taking a deep breath. Which is, of course, very reasonable. But the thing is, sometimes we just want to smooth things out. Add a little shape. Feel a bit more ‘held’. And we want to do that while maintaining blood flow to our extremities. We looked high and low and found the best shapewear that managed to tick all the boxes.

We want you to feel great in your body, so we’re definitely not pushing a whole reshaping of your already gorgeous figure. The best shapewear can just be a tool to feel put together and supported, without completely revamping your bod. Of course, if you feel most comfortable with strong compression, we’ve got options there, too. But really, we want to reframe shapewear as an enhancement to your beautiful body rather than mega camouflage. And we refuse to feel like we can’t sit down or eat a meal while we’re wearing it. These are the gold standard in comfort + support, if we do say so ourselves.

ThirdLove ComfortStretch Smoothing Full Coverage Bra

close up of taupe colored full coverage bra
ThirdLove

Bye bye bumps and bulges, hello sleek look under clothes. The newest style from the bra geniuses at ThirdLove offers extra back and underarm coverage, plus smooth full coverage cups. Looking for versatility? The straps convert to an X-back! Available in 2 colors, sizes up to 44H.

ThirdLove ComfortStretch Smoothing Full Coverage Bra ($78.00)—Buy Here!

YITTY Nearly Naked Shaping High Waist Thong

woman wearing peach high-rise briefs
YITTY

Lizzo-found brand YITTY (her childhood nickname, actually!) is all about size-inclusive, celebratory shapewear that fits and makes you feel great. Not smaller or bigger; just more pulled together. The Nearly Naked Thong is a now-show pair of undies that shape, smooth, and wick away moisture. Not feeling a thong? They also come in briefs, and you'll probably want to check out the whole YITTY Shapewear Line. Available in multiple colors, sizes XS-6X.

YITTY Nearly Naked Shaping High Waist Thong (VIP $24.95/Reg $34.95)—Buy Here!

Honeylove SuperPower Brief

Honeylove

Honeylove somehow managed to make shapewear...fashion? The bandage support details on this pair are so edgy and cool, but the real hero here is the effect. Targeted compression sculpts your midsection, flexible boning prevents roll-down, and mesh fabric smooths your bottom for a highly supportive, sweat-wicking shapewear piece. Available in 6 colors, sizes XS-3X. Use code TINYBEANS at checkout for 10% off your purchase!

Honeylove SuperPower Brief ($84.00)—Buy Here!

Truekind Supportive Comfort Wireless Shaping Bra

woman wearing cream-colored bralette
Shapermint

With the comfort of a bralette, the molded cups of a traditional bra, and the versatility of convertible straps, it's no wonder this Wireless Shaping Bra has such great ratings. Available in 4 colors and sizes S-4XL.

Truekind Supportive Comfort Wireless Shaping Bra ($32.99)—Buy Here!

SPANX OnCore Mid-Thigh Short

woman wearing tan shaping shorts
SPANX

You had to know cult-favorite SPANX would make an appearance here! Aside from the firm support and famous SPANX shaping, the OnCore Mid-Thigh Shorts are a mid-rise, so they hit at your natural waist if you want to skip on the high-rise option. Available in 5 colors and sizes XS-XL.

SPANX OnCore Mid-Thigh Short ($64.00)—Buy Here!

SKIMS Seamless Sculpt Mid Thigh Bodysuit

SKIMS

Social media-approved bodysuit? You found it. It's the SKIMS Seamless Mid Thigh Bodysuit flaunts strong compression and targeted control along the waist, tummy, and legs, plus butt-enhancing pockets for a lifted look. Comes in a whopping 10 colors and sizes XXS-4X.

SKIMS Seamless Sculpt Mid Thigh Bodysuit ($74.00)—Buy Here!

AirSlim Firm Tummy Compression Bodysuit Shaper with Butt Lifter

woman wearing navy shaping bodysuit and beige bra
Shapellx

This compression bodysuit sculpts from your back, waist, and down to your tummy and thighs. It also comes with adjustable and removable straps and a butt-lifter (padding-free). It comes in 3 colors and sizes XS-6X.

AirSlim Firm Tummy Compression Bodysuit Shaper with Butt Lifter ($48.40)—Buy Here!

Leonisa Extra High Waisted Firm Compression Legging

woman wearing navy blue leggings
Leonisa

For those of us who like to feel held in by our leggings, this pair from Leonisa delivers. With an inner layer of PowerSlim for firm compression to sculpt from mid-to-lower tummy, they also have an outer layer that's super soft. Available in black and blue, sizes XS-XXL.

Leonisa Extra High Waisted Firm Compression Legging ($52.00+)—Buy Here!

Bodyflexx Double-Duty Bodysuit Shaper

woman wearing ivory mid-thigh bodysuit shapewear
Bodyflexx Shapewear

Versatile and functional, this shaper can be worn under a ton of outfits, or paired with a cardigan, denim jacket, skirt, or jeans for a layered outerwear option. Add bust and back support and you'll walk taller all day no matter how you wear it. Available in 3 colors, sizes XS/S-3X/4X.

Bodyflexx Double-Duty Bodysuit Shaper ($44.00)—Buy Here!

SHAPERX Seamless Sculpting Thong Body Shaper

three women in taupe bodysuits
SHAPERX

This viral bodysuit has been all over social media, hailed as a budget-friendly alternative to the SKIMS version. Believe us when you say you'll pull it out of the package and assume there's no way it'll fit, but it does. It's ultra-stretchy, offers compression except in the bust (so it's great for all bra sizes), and comes in 11 colors, sizes XXS/XS-4XL/5XL.

SHAPERX Seamless Sculpting Thong Body Shaper ($37.99)—Buy Here!

Express Body Contour High Compression Tee

Express

Everyone needs a great t-shirt in their closet, so why not make it extra-flattering with a sculpting fabrication from Express? It's excellent as a base layer or styled all on its own. Available in 5 colors and sizes XS-XL.

Express Body Contour High Compression Tee ($48.00)—Buy Here!

Knix LuxeLift Tank

woman in dusty blue tank top and black pants
Knix

It's not officially compression shapewear, but we're in love with this tank top from Knix that lets us go braless and smooths our silhouette. It's even designed to relax and adapt to your shape as you wear it! Available in 2 colors, sizes S-XXXL+.

Knix LuxeLift Tank ($59.00)—Buy Here!

Shapewear Bodysuits 3pk

Amazon

This is shapewear that's meant to be seen. Bodysuits are back, but don't let that freak you out. Ease into the trend with blazers, cardigans, or wide-leg jeans or pants to offset the fitted top. Of course, even if you're super experienced in the bodysuit arena, this 3-pack is such a steal. Available with a thong back, in multiple colors, and sizes XS-XL.

Shapewear Bodysuits 3pk ($35.99)—Buy Here!

Cotton High Waist Tummy Control Panties 5pk

Amazon

Who doesn't love a good multipack? Snag this set of 5 tummy-smoothing undies at a steal (less than $20!) and see what over 12,500 Amazon reviewers are raving about! Multiple colors/prints available in sizes XS-4XL.

Cotton High Waist Tummy Control Panties 5pk ($19.98)—Buy Here!

Naomi and Nicole Sheer Capri Pantliner

Naomi and Nicole

They're calling these 'pantliners', which is a new one to us, but they're so clever. Wear them with your most fitted jeans or pants for extra smoothing, or with a skirt and boots while it's still chilly outside. Available in nude or black, sizes S-2X.

Naomi and Nicole Sheer Capri Pantliner ($23.97)—Buy Here!

Sheertex Shaping Sheer Rip-Resist Tights

woman in black tights pulling on them to demonstrate strength
Sheertex

Hold on, because this is wild. Sheertex tights are made with technology featuring one of the world's strongest polymers, typically used in ballistics and climbing equipment. So...it's safe to say they don't rip easily? Aside from this wildly strong fabrication, they offer great tummy and thigh shaping. They have a huge assortment of tights, so check them all out. Available in sizes XS-3XL.

Sheertex Shaping Sheer Rip-Resist Tights ($35.00+)—Buy Here!

Underoutfit The Comfort Shaping Bra

woman in bralette and boyshorts
Underoutfit

Underoutfit is created for people seeking the most support + the most comfort. It's no small feat, but The Comfort Shaping Bra does it. It's breathable, wire-free, has sewn-in pads (no hunting around for those removable ones or constantly shifting so it doesn't look like one is pointing in the wrong direction), and they managed to eliminate the old uniboob effect. Available in multiple colors and sizes S-3XL (they also offer a 180 day return window!).

Underoutfit The Comfort Shaping Bra ($29.90)—Buy Here!

LNDR THE CHISEL Leggings

woman in sports bra, leggings, and sneakers
LNDR

According to LNDR, 'Think: If Michelangelo made leggings.' THE CHISEL is their #1 bestseller, and it probably has something to do with them being 'the most sculpting performance leggings on the planet', we're guessing. Made using premium recycled polyamide and a higher grade elastane than any other brand (according to LNDR), they're knitted using seamless technology, creating different levels of compression and optimum shaping throughout the leg, thigh, butt, and tummy.

Available in 7 colors, 2 lengths, and sizes XS/S-L/XL, keep in mind that these are intense shaping leggings. If that's a little more...intense...than you're looking for, LNDR has a bunch of different options and levels of shaping in their leggings arsenal

LNDR THE CHISEL Leggings ($148.00)—Buy Here!

Sleeveless Catsuit

woman in brown fitted jumpsuit
Amazon

Believe it or not, catsuits are a great wardrobe addition. They offer shaping under cold-weather clothes, but we're really big fans of throwing them on with a jacket, cardigan, or sweatshirt and just going for it. It's also excellent for workouts! Available in 16 colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Sleeveless Catsuit ($26.39+)—Buy Here!

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

 

Love is in the air, and it doesn’t always have to be about fancy flowers and tasty treats. We’ve found 18 unique DIY Valentine’s Day gifts that kids can make (they’re no joke!) and that you (or whoever the lucky person is) will actually want to keep. Get ready to create something unique that comes straight from the heart. Don’t forget to check out our favorite homemade Valentine’s Day cards too!

Illustrated Magnets

We love this sweet DIY Valentine’s gift idea! All you need is glass marbles, white cardstock, pens, Modge Podge, and hot glue.

Black Glue Heart Art

Black glue might not be top of mind when you think about homemade Valentine’s gifts, but this project is stunning and good for all crafting levels. Get the details and the printable template from Red Ted Art. 

Heart-Shaped Tea Bags

These adorable heart-shaped tea bags will make tea lovers smile as they steep their morning cup.

Heart Decorated Jars

Decorate these jars with hearts and Valentine’s Day designs, then fill them with whatever treat you’d like.

Heart-Shaped Pencil Toppers

heart-shaped pencil toppers are an easy DIY Valentine's Gift
The Best Ideas for Kids

Pencil this idea in, and you have a pretty gift for your Valentine. We love The Best Idea for Kids use of pipe cleaners and Valentine pencils to put together this clever craft that becomes a heartfelt gift.

Coffee Filter Hearts

Simple Fun for Kids

What better way to say "I love you" than with a pretty coffee filter heart? Simple Fun for Kids shows the how-to for this craft that makes a perfect gift. You’ll need coffee filters, markers, and an eyedropper (or something similar) then let your little artist go to it.

Paper Airplane Valentines

Pink Stripey Socks

This DIY Valentine’s gift soars above the rest. Mom Leslie over at Pink Stripey Socks gives the step-by-step on how to make these adorable paper airplane Valentines. Not only are they fun to make, but also they make a cool gift.

Related: 28 Easy Valentine’s Day Cards You Can Make at Home

Heart-Shaped Paper Clips

heart-shaped paper clips are an easy DIY valentine's day gift
How About Orange

If you’re down to the last minute and need a quick (and cute!) gift, then these heart-shaped paper clips do the trick. Click through to How About Orange for the how-to. Even more, add a sweet note or a new book, and you're done.

Heart Tea Towels

Clumsy Crafter

What’s more fun than stamping your heart out? We love Clumsy Crafter’s cute and elegant DIY heart tea towels. Grab those potatoes, carve, stamp, and follow the directions. You’ll have tons of fun!

Shake Painting Heart Gift

No Time for Flash Cards

Your budding Picasso can make a Valentine’s Day gift with this easy-to-do shake painting. Head over to No Time for Flashcards to find out how to do this fun craft. Pick your colors, throw in hearts, and shake. It's the perfect present.

Heart Magnets

heart magnets are an easy DIY Valentine's Gift
Idlewife

For a gift that will stick around past February, these heart magnets from Idlewife are awesome. They’re pretty easy to make, but leave yourself enough time to let them harden after you’ve sculpted them.

Love Monsters

love monsters are a creative diy valentine's gift
Eighteen 25

How cute are these little love monsters from Eighteen 25? Using yarn, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes, they’re super fun to make, and we love that each one is unique.

Related: 12 Creative (& Easy) Valentine’s Day Card Box Ideas

Candy-Filled Tackle Box

candy tackle boxes are a cute diy valentine's gift
Close to Home

If you’ve got a fisherman in your life (or a candy lover), she or he will get a kick out of this clever gift from Close to Home. Fill up the tackle box with Swedish fish and gummy worms, then attach a little tag.

Decorated Coffee Mugs

Inside My Hideaway

Here’s a heartfelt gift that budding artists can make with a cup, glossy paint, and a small paintbrush. Get the instructions from Inside My Hideaway.

Paper Bookmark

a heart-shaped paper heart is a fun DIY Valentine's gift
How About Orange

Who’s number one in your book? With just a few creases and folds you can make this origami bookmark heart. Make a few and give them to friends who love to read. Go to How About Orange for the simple tutorial.

Antique Wood Hearts

a heart-shaped wood ornament is a cool DIY Valentine's Gift
Melissa via Fireflies and Mud Pies

While not for the faint of heart (see what we did there?), we adore this DIY Valentine's Day gift from Fireflies and Mud Pies. Your kids can make one using paint, an antiquing medium, a wood heart, and twine.

Related: 19 Sweet Valentine’s Day Recipes for Kids

Colorful Sun Catchers

Kristina via Toddler Approved

Hearts will be full when the kids hand off a brightly colored heart sun catcher this Valentine's Day. Give your kids a salad spinner, coffee filter, paint, and paper, then watch them create from the heart. Mom Kristina gives us the know-how over at Toddler Approved.

Simple Knot Bracelets

The Nerd's Wife

These heart-shaped bracelets will help your kid let her BFFs know that life would knot be the same without them. Head over to The Nerd’s Wife for an easy tutorial that requires a paracord and scissors.

Love Bugs

DIY Valentine's Gifts
Katie via A Little Pinch of Perfect

Go buggy with this cute craft from A Little Pinch of Perfect. You can help your kids make one with a tin can, craft paper, googly eyes, and a pipe cleaner.

We’re loving the heart-shaped pizza!

This Valentine’s Day, take your festivities to the next level by whipping up some Valentine’s Day food for kids. We’ve fallen in love with these inventive recipes, from super-simple Valentine’s Day dinners for kids to drool-worthy desserts. We’re talking faves like a chocolate cake recipe, red velvet everything, puppy chow, mousse, and more. 

Heart-Shaped Breadsticks

cute valentines day food
Meg’s Everyday Indulgence

These heart-shaped breadsticks from Meg’s Everyday Indulgence will make the perfect side for your V-Day meal. Made with just four ingredients, they’d be great alongside a big pot of soup or pizza (psst ... more on that below!). 

Saltine Toffee

Kylee Cooks

For an easy treat, try this sweet idea from Kylee Cooks. Saltine crackers, caramel, and chocolate come together to create the most addictive dessert around—just don’t forget the sprinkles!

Heart-Shaped Fruit Puff Pastries with Vanilla Glaze

fruit puff pastries are a cute valentines day food idea
Flour & Floral

It’ll be love at first sight (and bite) with these heart-shaped puff pastries from Flour & Floral. They’re a breeze to put together with frozen puff pastry and your favorite fruit jam.

Related: Costco’s 2023 Valentine’s Day Rose Sale: 50 Long-Stem Roses for $59.99!

M&M Rice Krispie Treats

Salt & Baker

You can never go wrong with a big batch of Rice Krispy treats, and this Valentine-inspired twist from Salt & Baker is no exception. An old-school favorite, it gets even better when you throw in some colored candies.

 

Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

Tara’s Multicultural Table

Get all the flavors of cheesecake without having to spend hours in the kitchen, thanks to this genius dip from Tara’s Multicultural Table. Paired with graham crackers, berries, and pretzels, it’ll be an instant hit with your little valentines. 

Mini Heart-Shaped Pizza

heart shaped pizza is a fun valentines day food
Sarah Khandijan

Mini pizzas and hearts—a match made in heaven. We love how simple these cheesy little bites are to make for a quick Valentine's Day surprise. Grab your cookie cutters and head over to Sarah Hearts for the recipe.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

chocolate covered strawberries are a classic valentines day food
Eat Cho Food

Chocolate-covered strawberries are a classic Valentine’s Day food, and this version from Eat Cho Food will definitely win over your kids. You can swap in your favorite type of chocolate (white, milk, and dark all work) and top them with graham cracker crumbs or chocolate swirls. 

Dark Chocolate Strawberry Shortbread Cookies

Apple of My Eye

These little gems from Apple of My Eye are like chocolate-covered strawberries in cookie form (sign us up!). Get the kids involved in rolling out the dough and topping the freshly baked cookies with jam and chocolate. 

Related: 60+ of the Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her (the Ultimate “Hint-Hint” List for Your Fam)

Deep Dish Red Velvet Cookies

Show Me the Yummy

Red velvet is the perfect pick for Valentine's Day, and this recipe from Show Me the Yummy is an easy way to make your loved ones smile. It's the perfect size for sharing, and it gets even tastier with the addition of vanilla ice cream and some chocolate syrup.

Glazed Strawberry Muffins

strawberry glazed muffins are a fun valentines day food
Garnish & Glaze

For a lighter dessert, whip up these pretty muffins from Garnish & Glaze. With strawberries dotted throughout and a lightly sweetened glaze on top, this one is sure to be a hit with your whole crew.

White Chocolate Raspberry Mousse

white chocolate raspberry mousse is a delicious valentines day food
Something Swanky

Keep things a little lighter but just as festive with this delish mousse recipe from Something Swanky. It may look complicated, but it's actually super easy to pull off using an instant pudding mix, cool whip, and some raspberries.

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies

Creme de la Crumb

These chewy, moist cookies from Creme de la Crumb are heavenly when paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. The whole fam will be impressed by how adorable these look with pink and red sprinkles on top—we're willing to bet they won't last 'til the 15th!

Valentine Puppy Chow

puppy chow is a fun valentines day food
Sarah Halstead

If your kids are fans of classic puppy chow (aka muddy buddies), chances are they'll love this Valentine-themed twist on that classic snack from Sarah Halstead. It'll come together in 10 minutes flat with red velvet cake mix, M&Ms, and chocolate.

Chocolate-Filled Raspberries

Glen Carrie via Unsplash

This tangy but sweet treat might be the easiest of them all. Grab a handful of fresh raspberries and your favorite chocolate chips, then slip a chocolate chip in each berry. Done! 

Related: 28 Easy Valentine’s Day Cards You Can Make at Home

Valentine's Day Pretzel Bites

Cathleen from A Taste of Madness

All you need to make these adorable little snacks are three ingredients. And chances are you already have them in your pantry. Check out A Taste of Madness to find out how to make them.

Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies

funfetti cake mix cookies are fun valentines day food
Sara via Bitz N Giggles

These super delicious cookies are also super easy to make, which is a total win when baking with kids. Sara from Bitz N Giggles adds M&Ms and sprinkles, giving them an extra boost of color.

 

 

Here’s what it means when you see a pickle ornament on a Christmas tree—and why you’ll want to add one to your own tree this year

Have you ever noticed something unique hanging on a friend or family member’s Christmas tree? For some families, hanging a glass pickle (usually tucked inside the tree’s branches so it’s a bit hidden from plain view) is part of a fun tradition. But what does a pickle ornament mean, and where does this tradition come from?

Spotting the pickle ornament on your family’s Christmas tree is supposed to be a sign of good luck. The tradition has a few different variations, but typically, the first child to find the pickle on the tree will have a fortuitous next year—and may get a prize or extra present, get to open the first present, or get to hand out presents to the rest of the family.

The custom is known as Weihnachtsgurke, which is German for “Christmas pickle.” That seems to point to pickle ornaments having German roots, but the origins of this tradition are actually a lot less clear-cut than that. In fact, YouGov polled 2,057 German people and found that 91 percent of them had never even heard of the Christmas pickle tradition.

The New York Times has reported that pickle ornaments are a common tradition in the Midwest (which I can confirm—many of my midwestern friends have celebrated this tradition for their entire lives). There’s even an annual Christmas Pickle Festival in the German settlement of Berrien Springs, Michigan.

The true origins of the pickle ornament tradition will probably remain a mystery, though. Some say it began with a story of a villanous innkeeper who trapped two boys in a pickle barrel, until they were rescued by Santa Claus. Another story says a German immigrant was captured as a soldier during the civil war, and he begged for a pickle, which magically sustained him until he could escape.

No matter the reason for the tradition, adding a hidden pickle ornament to your family tree can add some fun (and a little friendly competition) to the holidays. Happy pickle hunting!

We think the best way to celebrate National Ice Cream month is with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or gelato from one of Boston’s best ice cream shops. It’s like summer in a cup! So the next time your crew is chanting (you know the one) for their favorite summer treat, head to one of these spots families love.

Honeycomb Creamery

Families love this small batch ice creamery in Cambridge, and it’s not just because they have inventive flavors like Horchata, Honey Lavender and Port Cherry Vanilla. We think it’s their sweet take on Taco Tuesday that makes this shop a must-visit on a sunny day. Grab street tacos from your favorite spot for dinner, followed by Honeycomb Creamery’s taco-shaped waffle cone filled with your favorite ice cream and dipped in chocolate for dessert.

Hours: Mon.-Sun., noon-10 p.m.

1702 Massachusetts Ave.
Cambridge
Online: honeycombcreamery.com

Toscanini’s

When it comes to finding a great scoop of ice cream in the city, you can’t go wrong with Toscanini’s. Started in 1981, this fantastic spot is known for their creamy and flavorful cups of ice cream and their frequently rotating menu of choices. On the can’t-miss list is Toscanini’s Vienna Finger and Tiramisu.

Hours: Weds.-Sun., noon-11 p.m.

159 First St.
Cambridge
Online: tosci.com

Emack & Bolio’s

The rock ‘n’ roll story behind Emack & Bolio’s is almost as legendary as their ice cream. And although the shop’s hours have changed over the years—from après show, late night hours to something more standard—their ice cream still rocks. Whatever flavor you choose, we suggest tricking out your treat with a covered cone (it’s kind of their thing). Get yours with Oreos, Rice Krispies or Fruity Pebbles to earn extra enthusiastic thanks from the kiddos.

Newbury
290 Newbury St.
Boston

North Station
Causeway St.
Boston

Online: emackandbolios.com

Tipping Cow

When it comes to interesting ice cream flavors you can’t find anywhere else, Tipping Cow is the place. Their ice cream is made in-house and families with food sensitivities can always count on it being peanut, tree-nut and sesame-free (psst... they have non-dairy options too). We’re crushing on their original flavors like Goat Cheese and Fig, Strawberry Basil and Sweet Corn.

415 Medford St.
Somerville

525 Western Ave.
Boston
Online: tippingcowicecream.com

Taiyaki NYC

Named for the irresistible fish-shaped waffle cone it’s served in, Taiyaki NYC serves up Japanese-style ice cream your kids will scream for (in the “I scream, you scream” sense of the word). Fish-shaped cone? Check. Unicorn sprinkle topping? They’ve got it. What more could a kid ask for on a swelteringly hot summer day?

119 Seaport Blvd., Suite B
Boston
Online: taiyakinyc.com

Cookie Monstah

Whether you track down one of the trucks, or visit a bakeshop location, you and the kids will be hard pressed to find a tastier ice cream sandwich anywhere else. And if you ask us, it’s the DIY aspect of the treat that makes it so good. After all, if there’s one thing we know kids always want (besides ice cream, of course), it’s to be in charge. Let them choose their favorite cookie and ice cream flavor combo to create the sweet sandwich of their dreams.

Locations in Danvers, Swampscott, Burlington and Needham. Plus food trucks (find out where they’ll be popping up next).
Online: thecookiemonstah.com

FoMu

If plant-based is your jam, FoMu is where you’ll find creamy vegan ice cream to enjoy. All their creative flavors are made in-house and from scratch, and the coconut milk base gives their ice creams a smooth, gelato feel. Although you might be tempted to try the avocado ice cream, don’t neglect the more traditional flavors like chocolate cookie dough, vanilla bean and cold brew ice cream when you go. They’re just as good as FoMu’s more creative flavors.

Locations in Allston, Jamaica Plain, South End and Fenway.
Online: fomuicecream.com

OddFellows

With flavors like Ol’ Dirty Custard, Peanut the Kidnapper and Joe Bananas you might wonder what exactly is in this ice cream. Count on enticing combos that keep you and your little ice cream lovers coming back for more. Beyond these everyday flavors families can take advantage of OddFellow’s summer collection. These ice creams featuring light and fruity flavors are available for pick-up now.

55 Boylston St.
Chestnut Hill
Online: oddfellowsnyc.com

Forge Ice Cream Bar

Go old school with a trip to the Forge Ice Cream Bar. Whatever your hankering for, they’ve got it on their menu. Traditional scoop on a cone? Check. Shakes, ice cream sodas or a root beer float? Your kids can order it here. And if they really want to go bananas, try a Curious George (or an ice cream flight) to share.

626b Somerville Ave.
Somerville,
Online: forgebakingco.com/ice-cream

 

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When it comes to St. Patrick’s Day foods, ravioli probably isn’t the first one that comes to mind. But at Costco, you can get this Italian fave-turned Irish treat in fabulously festive shamrock shapes!

This isn’t the first time the warehouse club has brought their loyal members holiday happiness in the form of pasta perfection. Costco celebrated Valentine’s Day with red heart-shaped ravioli and Halloween with bat-shaped pasta, too. Now Nuovo Pasta, the makers of creative carbs, is bringing us a five-cheese green shamrock St. Patrick’s Day treat.

So what can you expect from Nuovo’s shamrock-shaped ravioli? The pasta product includes imported Irish aged cheddar, shredded mozzarella, creamy white cheddar, velvet ricotta and parmesan cheese. Turn the pasta’s package over and you’ll find a special surprise—a recipe for an Irish vodka sauce.

In addition to the savory sauce recipe, we happen to love the fun green and white ravioli that we hope to all leprechauns will finally get our kids to eat an entire meal.

The St. Patrick’s day-themed pasta is available at Costco warehouses across the country in a two-pack of 16 oz. each for $9.99.

—Erica Loop & Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Nuovo Pasta

 

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If you are looking for something to help pass the time, this puzzle may be the answer. With 51,300 pieces, Kodak’s “World’s Largest Puzzle” is bound to keep your family busy for quite some time.

Measuring at 28.5 feet wide and a little over 6 feet tall, the puzzle depicts 27 different destinations from around the globe. Not only that, it’s packed with unique-shaped pieces to keep you on your toes.

 

Kodak puzzle

Each of the 27 images are packaged in separate bags and are made of up of 1,900 pieces. Tackle each section individually and then piece them together to create this larger than life puzzle featuring sites such as the Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal and Eiffel Tower.

The puzzle is available on Amazon for a cool $600.

—Karly Wood

Featured photo: Amazon

 

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Valentine’s Day just got sweeter—at Costco! The warehouse club has Le Chic Patissier’s heart-shaped macarons back in stock, just in time for the holiday.

The fab French-inspired foodie find was already spotted by Instagram user @costcosisters as early as Jan. 8 and we’re about ready to head to the warehouse ourselves to grab a box or two.

photo: Red Tricycle

Fans of the petite treats may remember Le Chic Patissier’s strawberry-vanilla and raspberry macarons from year’s past. These Valentine’s Day goodies feature vanilla and raspberry flavors. Le Chic Patissier’s website describes the delish delights as, “Using 100% natural ingredients, we source high-quality vanilla from Madagascar and fresh seasonal fruits for the puree.”

Nab a box of 25 for $12.99 at select Costco retailers while these limited-time sweets are still on store shelves.

—Erica Loop

 

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Forget about teeny tiny conversation hearts. Treat your sweetie to a full-sized sweet this Valentine’s Day with Oreo’s heart-shaped cookie dunking set.

The set, which comes in a completely cute heart box, debuted back in 2018. The seasonal kit repeatedly sells out but we’ve already found it in two spots.

This Valentine’s Day goody box is the perfect present to share. Each set comes with two matching mugs, two pairs of dunking tongs (because you can’t hold hands with messy, milk-covered fingers), a heart-shaped cookie cage and a six-pack of Oreo cookies.

This limited-time Oreo dunking set is available for $25 at Frankford Candy or $31 on Amazon.

—Erica Loop

 

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If you want to add a little beauty to your brick stash, you’ll love the LEGO Botanical collection. Not only does this gorgeous lineup make for great therapeutic afternoon of building, but it’s also the perfect way to say “I Love You” this Valentine’s Day.

With florals that won’t die, the LEGO Creator Flower Bouquet ($50) and LEGO Bonsai Tree ($40) are the gift that keeps on giving. Each set has over 700 pieces each and is geared more towards adults than kids.

The Creator Flower Bouquet comes with 756 pieces to construct a variety of flowers, including snapdragons, roses, poppies, asters, daisies, and different grasses. The set comes with elements that feature new shapes and colors to make that perfect petal shape, and each bud can be arranged in a vase to your liking.

Harness your inner zen with the 878 piece Bonsai Tree set. It comes with with a rectangular pot and a slatted wood-effect LEGO stand. If you look close enough, you may even spy the little frogs that make up each blossom piece.

Both sets are sold out on LEGO.com, however, you can use the site to check your local store inventory to snag your own set. You can also find both the bouquet and Bonsai tree on Amazon.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of LEGO

 

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