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Whether you're sprucing up your balcony, furnishing your deck, or just looking for a cozy place to gather outdoors with friends or family, Target's new patio deal is worth a look. The Costway 3-Piece Solid Wood Patio Set is a stylish and functional seating option that's now on sale for 50% off, which is a huge markdown for a top-rated outdoor set. 

Originally priced at $396, the popular set is currently available for just $198. It comes with a solid wood coffee table and two cushioned chairs, featuring a clean, modern design that will instantly elevate your porch or yard. 

Costway 3-Piece Solid Wood Patio Set, $198 (was $396) at Target

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

Made of premium acacia wood, the three-piece set is durable, warp-resistant, and built for long-term use. Each chair measures 24 inches long by 27 inches wide by 34 inches high and is designed to hold up to 360 pounds, while the coffee table is 18 inches long by 18 inches wide by 19 inches high and can support up to 220 pounds. Despite their sturdy construction, all three pieces have a compact build that fits seamlessly into limited spaces, making it a great buy for small balconies, decks, or porches. 

Designed for ultimate support, the chairs feature slightly sloped backs and wide armrests that allow you to spread out and relax, providing an ideal outdoor hangout spot for spring and summer. Each chair has thick, high-resilience gray cushions that offer optimal comfort and come with removable, zippered covers that can be machine washed for easy care.  

Related: Target's $73 Hammock Chair Is a 'Comfortable' and 'Cozy' Patio Upgrade for Spring

This stunning patio set is a favorite among Target shoppers, with over 140 five-star ratings. Multiple reviewers complimented the solid wood construction, calling it "sturdy and well-built." Others highlighted the elegant design, noting it "looks beautiful" on porches and patios. The compact build also earned praise, with shoppers calling it the "perfect size" for small spaces. 

Shop More Deals

• Costway 3-Piece Folding Bistro Set, $150 (was $236) at Target
• Okak Outdoor Egg Chair, $330 (was $471) at Target
• Summit Adventure 4-Position Chaise Lounge, $269 (was $384) at Target

If you've been looking for stylish and comfy patio furniture to upgrade your outdoor lounging this spring and summer, this three-piece solid wood set ticks all the right boxes. Snag it for under $200 while it's still on sale at Target. 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Ever since Phil Collins released his iconic 1981 hit “In the Air Tonight,” the song has inspired countless urban legends as explosive as its famous drum break. Even wilder than the tales of murder, drowning, and revenge? Many still believe them — cementing the track as one of the most misunderstood songs of all time.

The truth is actually far different — and far more personal.

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If you believe the drowning myth, then you believe that as a kid Collins witnessed a man watch another man drown rather than do something to save him, then he wrote a song about it. Over the years, fan theories and variations have included Collins hiring a detective to find the bystander, then inviting him to one of his concerts to then be arrested in front of a roaring crowd. 

In 2016, Collins was a guest on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. When Fallon asked Collins what he thought about the dark backstory surrounding his track, Collins said it was "the best story I've ever heard in my life." He then debunked the urban legend once and for all, saying that the real meaning behind the song's lyrics is really just the divorce he was going through. “I was just pi–ed off, I was angry,” he said. 

At the time, Collins was splitting from his wife of five years, Andrea Bertorelli, following her affair. The emotion fueled his debut solo album, Face Value, and single “In the Air Tonight.”  

Peaking at No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 when it was released, the track found new life in 2020 when social media twins Tim and Fred Williams recorded themselves listening to the track for the first time. Their visceral reaction to Collins’ killer drum solo went viral, sending the track to the top of the Billboard Rock Digital Song Sales, with 15,000 downloads sold that week in August. 

Just this month, the track made even more history by joining the 1 billion streams club on Spotify, proving that no matter what fans believe, "In the Air Tonight" is a timeless track that connects with listeners of all generations.

Related: 1980 ‘Sublime Ballad’ With Iconic Guitar Riff Became One of the Greatest in Rock History

Acclaimed chef and TV personality Alex Guarnaschelli is one of the latest to test Stew Leonard's viral flavored milks on TikTok, and she does not disappoint! The James Beard Award-winning takes are both entertaining and informative. While preparing wine glasses with spoonfuls of ice for each flavor in her video, her first go of the Coffee Milk flavor is an instant hit.

"Coffee milk, that's bad news... because that's really good. It tastes like high-quality melted coffee ice cream," she says after taking a sip. Guarnaschelli adds, "I could see adding a scoop of ice cream to this and making a milkshake, or an ice cream sandwich, or an ice cream soda. It's, like, a 9.9 for me. This is really good and has a real coffee taste."

Guarnaschelli then goes on to try Stew Leonard's Dulce de Leche milk, which earned a slightly different score. "I bet this is everybody's favorite. But for me, this is really sweet," she reveals. "I would put this Dulce de Leche milk in my coffee. Really good. 9.429 out of 10."

Next up for the James Beard Award winner is Leonard's Strawberry flavor. "Strawberry milk. So nostalgic," she immediately replies while opening her bottle. "Mmm. This tastes like melted strawberry ice cream, and I'm here for it. It looks kind of like, you know, Pepto [Bismol]. But I would smash up some fresh strawberries in this and blend it and make a smoothie."

@guarnaschelli

Trying @Stew Leonard’s viral flavored milks! Which one is your favorite?🍓☕️🍫 #stewleonardsmilk #flavoredmilk #coffeemilk #chef #stewleonards

♬ original sound - Alex Guarnaschelli

After rating Strawberry a "9.67 out of 10," which gave way to a funny nod to the "6-7" meme, the Last Chef Standing judge moves on to Cookies and Cream, emphatically questioning the lack of a chocolate-flavored milk in her lineup. "Oooo, look at this one. Looks like mud," she observes while pouring her Cookies and Cream milk into a wine glass.

"You know when you eat a bunch of those iconic American chocolate sandwich cookies, and you dunk them all in your milk, and some of them, a little bit, break off in the milk? Then you eat all the cookies, and then you drink the rest of the milk, and there's like that sludge of the cookie left? That's what this tastes like. But it just tastes milky. I need more cookie. I need more cookie stew," Guarnaschelli declares. "9.47 out of 10."

The clear winner for Guarnaschelli appears to be Stew Leonard's Coffee Milk, and judging by many of the comments under her TikTok video, other fans certainly agree. "Rhode Island staple. Coffee milk," wrote TikTok user Kathy Baker. Another commenter named Around the World Travel also stated, "Coffee milk-blend it with Kalua [sp] & toffee almond fudge ice cream, and you have created a new ice cream martini!! (Yes, I have over 35 yrs experience refining this drink.)

With over 598 thousand TikTok followers, Guarnaschelli's Stew Leonard flavored milk rankings will surely raise the popular grocery brand's stock to astronomical heights. And who knows — perhaps they'll send their famous chocolate milk for the celebrity chef to test for a future video.

Few songs are as instantly recognizable as the 1981 power ballad “Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey. What you may not know about the hit song is that the music was recorded in just one afternoon. The song helped Journey skyrocket to fame and became a rock anthem of the '80s, and it's been playing on repeat ever since.

“Don’t Stop Believin'” was written by Journey band members Jonathan Cain (keyboardist, rhythm guitarist, songwriter), Steve Perry (lead vocalist and songwriter), and Neal Schon (guitarist, songwriter).

In an interview with Songwriting, Cain talks about the day the band recorded “Don't Stop Believin'”. He recalls, “Steve had a cold and wasn’t feeling well. We had been at it most of the afternoon and hadn’t got the take. So I sent Steve home, I said, ‘You should go home. Come back next week. We’ll get this, I know what to do.’ So he left."

Cain says, producer Mike Stone pushed the musicians "dial it in," by having them practice the song using a click track. Once they turned off the click, Cain explains, "something magic happened—that perfect handoff. I remember, it’s five o’clock that night, Mike’s really happy, we’re all grooving like, ‘This is amazing.’"

The band reportedly captured the musical performance in one single take, and Perry recorded his vocals the following week.

Related: How the 'Biggest Song of All Time' Started Out With Iconic Journey Guitarist Doing 'Something Dumb'

“Don't Stop Believin'” was released on October 19, 1981, as the second single from Journey’s seventh studio album, Escape. On Halloween (October 31) 1981, the song debuted on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. While it may feel impossible now, the song peaked at just No. 9 on December 19, 1981, but the classic rock anthem stayed on the charts for 16 weeks.

The song “Don't Stop Believin'” instantly grabs you with its distinctive piano opening, Steve Perry's smooth and soulful vocals, and the visceral storytelling about a "small town girl" and a "city boy" on a "midnight train going anywhere." You come for the buildup, but then you stay for the energetic and hopeful crescendo and that perfect chorus that promises the feeling "goes on and on and on." “Don't Stop Believin'” delivers the ultimate payoff.

“Don't Stop Believin'” outlived its '80s glory days too, making unforgettable appearances across key moments across pop culture history. In June 2007, the song closed out the unforgettable series finale of The Sopranos. A few years later, “Don't Stop Believin'” became the iconic closing number for the Broadway musical Rock of Ages, which ran from 2009 to 2015. Then, in probably its biggest modern-day boost, the song was performed in the "Pilot" episode of the TV show Glee, which originally aired in May 2009, and became a huge hit. The song was promptly given new life and a whole new generation's worth of love.

Over four decades after its release, Journey's beloved 1981 song has been named one of the “biggest songs of all time” from the pre-digital era, and, to date, the generation-crossing hit has over 2.8 billion streams on the Spotify streaming service.

“Don't Stop Believin'” forever lives on in the hearts of every fan with a small-town dream, and it's also a forever mantra for optimism and hope. Plus, it's a crowd pleaser for every occasion.

Listen to "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey:

Watch Journey perform "Don't Stop Believin'" in 1981:

Watch the full performance of "Don't Stop Believin'" from the cast of Glee.

Journey kicked off their Final Frontier Tour in February 2026, and is performing into the summer. For cities, dates, and ticket information, visit the official Journey website: journeymusic.com

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Shots tend to get a bad rap—they can be annoying, time-consuming and synonymous with a college crowd, but talk to bartenders, and you’ll quickly realize they’re a lot more nuanced than their party reputation suggests. Sure, there’s still a time and place for a round of tequila, but if you stop thinking of shots simply as a reckless rush of alcohol and start seeing them as cute little mini cocktails, suddenly, they feel a lot more intentional and a lot more interesting. Let us explain.

As Chicago bartender Graham McClure puts it: “Shots are such a conundrum…[they ’re] really just cocktails in 1 ounce form; mixed drinks rationed out by the ounce.” In other words, even the smallest of drinks can still be thoughtfully made (and consumed), whether they’re thrown back in celebration or used to kick off a long night.

At the same time, not all shot recipes are created equal. Some are built for speed and simplicity, while others are carefully balanced, layered or shaken with the same intention as that classic cocktail is. And while trends come and go, bartenders say the same few orders keep showing up night after night: straight tequila, whiskey and a handful of sweet-tart crowd favorites that are just as easy to drink as they are to make.

To back this up, we talked to bartenders across the U.S. who have some very strong opinions when it came to shots. We talked about the good, the bad and the industry secrets, and got them to give up some of their all-time favorite recipes in the process. 

Here are the 21 best shots to order the next time a round is on you, straight from the pros. 

Related: The Simple Cocktail ‘Outlander’ Star Sam Heughan Swears By: ‘It’s a Modern Classic’ (Exclusive)

What Is the Most Popular Shot?

If there’s one thing bartenders agree on, it’s that the simplicity mindset wins over complexity when it comes to their customers ordering at the bar.

“The most popular shot is probably…well tequila or Irish whiskey,” says NYC bartender Ben Hopkins. Then comes the reality check: “But it depends on the night, the bar…or if Mercury is in retrograde or not.” 

Multiple bartenders agree and say that single pour shots dominated their orders on a regular night, especially during busy service (which is just fine with them). 

“Can’t beat the ease of a straight pour during a rush,” says Michigan-based bartender Lorna Tramontini. 

Of course, certain mixed shots still hold their ground. Remember Lemon Drops? Yeah, that’s still a thing, as is the newer Green Tea shot, which repeatedly shows up in rounds across the country.

“The most popular shot at the bars I work at are pickleback shots (whiskey with a side shot of pickle juice),” says Chicago-based bartender Aaron Dias, who goes by “AD” behind the bar.

Related: 20 Boozy Summer Cocktails That Work for Memorial Day Through Labor Day

What Shot To Avoid Ordering

On the flip side, bartenders also have their strong opinions about what not to order.

“Ordering top-shelf tequila shots chilled is a very Chad thing to do,” McClure says. “The end result: watered-down tequila…not delicious and not cost-effective…"

Plus, he points out that "if the producer of that tequila watched you do that," they'd likely be upset at it "disrespecting all the people and all the hard work that went into getting that bottle in front of you."

Related: Wait, What Does Whiskey Neat *Actually* Mean?

Is There a Difference Between Shots and Shooters?

The bartenders we talked to are split on this one. Some say that it's just semantics, and others have their stronger opinions.

Claudia Handel, bartender at The Bower in New Orleans, says there is definitely a difference in her experience: “A ‘shot’ is your standard two-ounce pour,” she tells Parade. “A ‘shooter,’ on the other hand, is that slim, portable tube…made for sipping on the go while you’re out exploring.”

And David Padilla, bartender at Rose Cafe & Restaurant (also in New Orleans) agrees:
“A shot is a spirit, liqueur, or amaro served on its own. A shooter is a mini cocktail, like a Green Tea shot, for example.”

And before you say, well, perhaps it’s just a New Orleans thing, other bartenders agree with them. 

“A shot is like a neat pour of a spirit while a ‘shooter’ is usually a mixed drink…with or without juices and probably some absolutely insane name like baby Guinness,” explains Hopkins. 

McClure says that, in his opinion, the terminology is changing. “I would say the term ‘shooter’ has faded out and the word ‘shot’ now encompasses any 1oz beverage intended to be taken down in a single gulp.” Fair enough.

Related: 27 Canned Cocktails That Were Made for Drinking Outdoors

What Shots Do Bartenders Like?

If bartenders are drinking, they’re usually keeping it simple, much like the rest of us: tequila, mezcal, whiskey, amaro. In other words, no fuss. 

“My favorite thing on earth to shoot is Japanese whisky from the freezer,” says Hopkins. “Bartenders [also] like mezcal shots for sure,” he adds. “I remember years ago I ordered so many 'Ilegal Mezcal' shots at a certain bar, they’d just give me one when I’d walk in.”

And when it comes to being an insider, sometimes it gets even more niche.

“One of my favorite shots is a straight 1 oz. shot of Angostura bitters,” says McClure. “If the Fernet shot is the secret handshake of the food service industry, then the Angostura shot is the Illuminati-level bartender secret,” McClure says, noting that Best Intentions, a Chicago mainstay for the post-shift bartender crowd, has Angostura shots on tap. 

Related: The 30 Best Tequila Brands for Sipping, Shots & Margaritas, According to Master Distillers

What Makes a Great Shot?

"I think to a bartender, a great shot is either straight alcohol or something that they can make really quickly. A great shot to a bar patron very much depends on the mood, hour, day or what moon is rising in what house," says McClure.

Ross Nemec, of Brooklyn-based bar The Rockwell Place, says spirit quality is the most important when it comes to a great shot and adds: “A shot should wake you up and keep you going, not send you into oblivion.”

Balance of flavors, of course, matters (even in one little ounce!). As Tramontini puts it, “Something with a little sugar and a lot of acidity! It doesn’t have to be straight alcohol to get that post-shot pucker face.”

Rensel Cabrera, bar manager at The Sylvester in Miami, agrees, telling Parade, “Even if it’s something you’re taking quickly, it should still taste good. I always think about whether I’d actually enjoy it as a full cocktail.”

Handel has a more experience-driven approach and says it’s less about what’s in the glass, sharing, “Great company makes any shot better, and if you can enjoy it without any regrets the next day, that’s a win in my book.”

Related: Wait, What's the Difference Between Mezcal and Tequila?

21 Best Shot Recipes, According to Bartenders

Dinners Done Quick

1. Root Beer Float 

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Nostalgic, dessert-like flavors with a fizzy finish
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 1 part vanilla vodka, 1 part root beer vodka, splash of creamer, splash of cola

This playful shot from Chicago bartender AD tastes exactly like a root beer float. Shake the vodkas and creamer with ice, strain into a shot glass, and top with a splash of cola. It’s creamy, fizzy and unexpectedly smooth–perfect for summer. Katie Vine from the blog Dinners Done Quickgave us a tip for making these: she says that while layered shots look fancy, they’re actually simple. Use a small spoon inside the glass and pour slowly so the liquid gently settles into layers instead of mixing.

Related: That's the Spirit: 9 Types of Vodka Explained by Bartenders and Other Drink Experts

The Live-In Kitchen

2. Vegas Bomb

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: High-energy, party-ready classic
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 1 part whiskey, 1 part peach schnapps, 1 part cranberry juice, splash of Red Bull

This is another one of AD’s faves. ”It’s been around for a while, but a good vibe shot,” he says.

Combine all ingredients except the energy drink, shake with ice, and strain into a shot glass, then top with Red Bull. An alternative (and way more fun) way to make these, according to blogger Lindsay Moe of The Live-In Kitchen, is to pour your energy drink into a tall glass and then drop the shot of alcohol in. It’s loud, fast, and fun and exactly what you’d expect from a shot designed to keep the night going.

The Bower

3. M&M

• Time Commitment: 2 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Smoky-sweet balance bartenders love
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 1 oz mezcal, 1 oz Montenegro

One of Handel’s favorites, she says this one is totally balanced because of the smoky mezcal playing off the sweet Montenegro. And the directions couldn’t be simpler: pour directly into a shot glass and serve. 

Related: Popular Jack & Coke Cocktail Line Just Got 2 First-Ever Flavors—Here’s Where To Find Them

The Bower

4. Aperol & Grapefruit

• Time Commitment: 2 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Bright, citrusy and low-ABV
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz grapefruit juice

Handel says this one is replacing shots of Fernet that have been common in the service industry. To make it, stir or lightly shake and serve. This one is refreshing, slightly bitter and a nice break from heavier, high-proof shots that leave you dizzy.

Courtesy of Rose Cafe & Restaurant

5. B-52  

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: A creamy layered pousse-café shot with rich coffee and citrus notes
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, 0.5 oz Irish cream, 0.5 oz orange liqueur

Padilla says to build this one in a shot glass by carefully pouring each ingredient over the back of a bar spoon in density order (coffee liqueur, Irish cream, then orange liqueur). The result is a clean, three-layered shot that looks striking and drinks smooth with a hint of sweetness and warmth.

Courtesy of Rose Cafe & Restaurant

6. White Tea Shot

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Smooth, citrusy and easy to drink
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz vodka, 0.5 oz peach schnapps, 0.5 oz lemon juice, 0.25 oz simple syrup

This variation of the Green Tea shot is another go-to of Padilla's. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a shot glass. It’s bright, balanced and dangerously easy to drink.

Courtesy of Rose Cafe & Restaurant

7. Kamikaze

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Crisp, tart and perfectly refreshing
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.75 oz vodka, 0.5 oz Cointreau, 0.25 oz lime juice

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain. Another favorite from Padilla, this one has a perfect citrusy, sweet, and tart balance. It’s a classic for a reason! 

8. Ben’s Snaiquiri (Snack-Sized Daiquiri Shot)

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: It’s a full cocktail scaled down to shot size
• Serves: 2–3
• Ingredients: 2 oz rhum agricole, 1 oz lime juice, 0.75 oz simple syrup, 7 dashes Peychaud’s bitters

Hopkins’ favorite and better yet? It serves multiple people, making it perfect for a round with friends. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into multiple shot glasses. 

9. RyeNar

• Time Commitment: 2 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Bold, bitter and spirit-forward
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz high-proof rye whiskey, 0.5 oz Cynar

If you’ve never heard of Cynar (pronounced chee-NAR) before, you’re not the only one. But Hopkins thinks you’re going to love it. this one. The artichoke-based herbal liqueur is layered with rye whiskey directly in the glass and served. Simple, punch, and, better yet, no cleanup required.

10. Ferrari

• Time Commitment: 2 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Bitter, sweet, aromatic, low-ABV and aids in digestion
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz Fernet-Branca, 0.5 oz Campari

A shot mentioned by multiple bartenders, this one is a winner for a reason. Pour equal parts of Fernet and Campari into a shot glass and serve. A true industry staple.

11. El Camino

• Time Commitment: 2 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Earthy, complex and unapologetically bold.
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz Laird’s Applejack, 0.5 oz Cynar

Created by McClure and inspired by the popularity of the Ferrari, this one is equal parts Laird’s Applejack and Cynar, which is also bartender-friendly since you just pour the two directly into the glass.

“Applejack is made from cider apples and is drier/sharper than apple brandy, and Cynar is a round, robust and earthy amaro made from artichoke,” McClure says. 

12. Cactus Cooler

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Bright, tropical and perfect for the warmer months
• Serves: 2–3
• Ingredients: 3 parts orange vodka, 1 part peach schnapps, 1 part orange juice, 1 part pineapple juice, splash of Sprite

Tramontini says this one is a crowd pleaser and totally easy to enjoy. To make it, shake ingredients (except the soda) with ice and strain into shot glasses, then top with Sprite. Fruity, sweet and wildly easy to drink.

Related: Beverly Hills Bartender Shares Candid Opinion After Serving Taylor Swift—and the Cocktail She Ordered

13. White Spider

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Simple, minty and strong
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: Equal parts vodka and peppermint schnapps

“Simple but effective, a boosted peppermint schnapps! May go down a little too easily, so be prepared,” Tramontini warns. Shake both ingredients hard with ice and strain into a shot glass.

14. Sandy Shot

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Rich, creamy and dessert-like
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 2 parts Crown Royal, 1 part Baileys, splash butterscotch schnapps

Tramontini says this shot, created by one of her customers over a decade ago, is one your grandma would like, “And so will you! Best in winter before heading back out to ski,” she says. Shake ingredients with ice and strain. Sweet, smooth and very easy to love.

15. Griffin Shot

• Time Commitment: 2 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Bitter, simple and herb-forward
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: Equal parts Cynar and bourbon

From Michigan bartender Allie Rhodes, this is another interesting one with Cynar, and it is super easy to make. Combine ingredients, shake with ice (or serve neat if that’s your thing) and pour into a shot glass. “Herbaceous, bitter, boozy and an excellent post-bar shift reset (or primer, for the afterparty),” she says.

Related: Make Sure Your Kentucky Derby Bar Is Well Stocked With These Bourbons Come May 2

The Sylvester

16. Discoteca

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Elevated, cocktail-style complexity
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.75 oz peach vodka, 0.25 oz St-Germain, 0.25 oz Cocchi Americano, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 0.5 oz acid solution

A favorite of Cabrera, this one is a variation on a white tea shot, which, according to him, “is a green tea shot's vodka-filled cousin. It's perfectly sweet and easy to drink, making it a crowd pleaser.”

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a shot glass. 

The Sylvester

17. Gator’s Kiss Shot

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Neon green, melon-forward and just plain fun 
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz tequila blanco, 0.5 oz Midori, 0.5 oz acid solution, 0.5 oz simple syrup

Another pick from Cabrera, this shot tastes like a kiss of melon with a hint of Tequila. “It’s also green, and who doesn’t love a bright neon green shot?” he says. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a shot glass.  

18. Oyster Shooter

• Time Commitment: 10 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Savory, briny and unexpectedly glam
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 1 fresh oyster, 1 oz vodka or tequila, 0.25 oz lemon juice, 2 dashes hot sauce, 1 dash fish sauce, horseradish (optional), 0.25 oz tomato juice (optional)

Nemec says oyster shooters are “one of life’s great joys” and suggests serving this at a party to get your guests talking. “It’s like eating an oyster and doing a shot at the same time.”

To make one, add a carefully shucked oyster to a shot glass, then layer in the remaining ingredients and serve. 

19. Whiskey Sour Shot

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Citrusy and versatile
• Serves: 3–4
• Ingredients: 1 oz whiskey, 0.75 oz lemon juice, 0.75 oz simple syrup, fruit (optional)

“Most mixed shots are just a mini whiskey sour,” Nemec says. “The citrus and sugar balance out the booze and make for easy drinking. If you add some fruit to this, it’ll take it to the next level. A slice of peach, a muddled strawberry, a handful of blueberries. Whatever is in season.”

To make a batch for a small crowd, shake the ingredients with ice and strain into multiple shot glasses.

Related: The Genius Trick for Making Chocolate-Covered Strawberries 10x Better

Courtesy Emily Laurae

20. Green Tea Shot

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: Sweet-tart and wildly popular
• Serves: 1
• Ingredients: 0.5 oz Jameson Irish Whiskey, 0.5 oz peach schnapps, 0.5 oz Sour Mix, splash of Sprite

A classic, mentioned by nearly all of the bartenders we talked to for one reason or another, and recreated beautifully by Chef Emily Laurae. Shake all ingredients (except soda) with ice and strain into a shot glass. It’s everywhere for a reason–easy, balanced and always a crowd-pleaser!

Close Company Atlanta

21. Incredible Hulk

• Time Commitment: 5 minutes
• What Makes This Shot Special: An ATL staple, smooth with tropical notes from Hpnotiq
• Serves: 1-2
• Ingredients: Equal parts Hennessy and Hpnotiq

From Bar Manager McKenzie Nelson at Close Companyin Atlanta is a Southern staple that goes down a bit too easy. For this one, combine both ingredients in a shaker and chill. This one is best prepared ahead of time and kept in the freezer.

Up Next:

Related: The Clever Bartender-Approved Way to Make Bourbon 10x Better

Sources:

• Graham McClure, Chicago-based bartender
• Ben Hopkins, NYC-based bartender
• Lorna Tramontini, Michigan-based bartender
• Aaron Dias, Chicago-based bartender
• Claudia Handel, bartender at The Bower in New Orleans
• David Padilla, bartender at Rose Cafe & Restaurant
• Ross Nemec, of Brooklyn-based bar The Rockwell Place
• Rensel Cabrera, bar manager at The Sylvester in Miami
• Katie Vine from the blog Dinners Done Quick
• Lindsay Moe of The Live-In Kitchen
• Allie Rhodes, Michigan-based bartender
• Chef Emily Laurae
• McKenzie Nelson, bar manager at Close Company in Atlanta

57 years ago today, David Bowie released 'Starman' into the world and rock music was forever changed.

The lead single from his album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, 'Starman' was recorded at the request of RCA executive, Dennis Katz, who said the album needed a true single. Inspired by 'Over the Rainbow' from The Wizard of Ozand songs 'Hot Love' and 'Telegram Sam', the rock song is positioned as Ziggy Stardust (Bowie's androgynous alien rock star alter ego created for the concept album) sending a message of hope through the radio to listeners. The story of the song is told from the perspective of one of the young people on Earth hearing Ziggy's message of salvation possible through Starman.

Speaking to Rolling Stone in 1973 about the song Bowie said, "Ziggy is advised in a dream by the infinites to write the coming of a starman, so he writes 'Starman,' which is the first news of hope that the people have heard. So they latch onto it immediately."

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'Starman' rose to the 41st spot on the UK charts upon its initial release, resulting in Bowie being invited to peform on the BBC program, Top of the Pops. The performance, which took place on July 5th, 1972, solidified the Ziggy Stardust persona of Bowie's as an icon, and pushed 'Starman' to number 10 on the charts. Many other musicians have cited the performance as a huge source of inspiration including Boy George, Morrissey, Duran Duran, and Bono.

The song was a massive hit and career milestone for Bowie, the first of his since 'Space Oddity' three years prior. 'Starman' is largely considered by music critics and fans alike to be one of Bowie's best songs in his entire catalog.

In recent times, the song has become associated with "Hopemaxxing," meaning to maximize the about of positivity and hope one has for an outlook on life. It was also (appropriately) used in the 2015 film, The Martian.

Related: Magazine Editors Reveal the Best David Bowie Song of All Time

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When it comes to soft, ambient lighting, it’s hard to beat a good table lamp. It instantly makes a space feel more inviting without relying on harsh overhead lights. Whether you’re setting up a cozy reading nook, adding warmth to your bedside table, or brightening up a living room corner, a well-placed lamp can completely shift the mood while adding a bit of personality.

If you’re looking for an option that blends style and function, the Walchoice Cordless Rechargeable Table Lamp is worth checking out. It’s currently on sale for 42% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $28 to just $16. 

Walchoice Cordless Rechargeable Table Lamp, From $16 (was $28) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This lamp comes in four different designs, each offering a slightly different aesthetic. One standout is the diamond-patterned shade, which features a high-clarity acrylic crystal finish paired with a rust-proof gold metal base. It emits a soft, warm glow that feels elevated without being over the top. It measures 11.6 inches tall, with a 4.3-inch base and a 2.6-inch top diameter, making it compact enough for smaller spaces.

One of its biggest advantages is the cordless design. It has a built-in 2500mAh rechargeable battery that provides between 10 and 30 hours of light on a full charge. The USB-C charging makes it simple to power up, and you won’t have to worry about placing it near an outlet. That flexibility makes it especially useful for areas where cords would normally be a hassle.

Using it is just as straightforward. The touch controls allow you to turn the lamp on or off with a quick tap, switch between lighting modes, or adjust brightness with a longer press. It also has a memory function, so it remembers your last setting. That small detail makes a big difference in everyday use.

You can also customize the lighting to fit your space. It offers three color options: warm white, natural light, and cool white. Brightness is adjustable from 5% to 100%, so it works just as well for a soft evening glow as it does for more focused lighting. The LED source is energy efficient, and the non-slip base keeps it stable on different surfaces.

Related: Drew Barrymore's Stunning Lamps at Walmart Add Instant Whimsy and Ambiance — and They Start at $17

Because it’s cordless and compact, it works in a wide range of spaces. You can use it on a nightstand for late-night reading, on a dining table for a more intimate dinner setup, or even on a kitchen island for added ambiance. It’s also a great option for outdoor tables when you’re hosting since you don’t need to worry about access to outlets.

This bestselling product earned over 200 five-star ratings, with reviewers highlighting its ease of use and chic look. One shopper shared, “These lamps are not only beautiful, they give off great light! The charging is super easy and there are red and green indicator lights to let you know when it has been charged.”

Another wrote, “Its intricate crystal-like design refracts light beautifully, creating a dazzling ambiance perfect for bedside tables, romantic dinners, or decorative accent lighting. Powered by rechargeable batteries, it offers the convenience of cordless placement, making it ideal for any space without worrying about outlets.”

Shop More Deals

• Natyswan Modern Table Lamp, $60 (was $120) at Walmart
• Hadineeon Floor Lamp, From $38 (was $60) at Walmart
• Sunmory Floor Lamps with Shelves, From $30 (was $56) at Walmart

If you’re looking to refresh your lighting setup with something that feels both cozy and functional, the Walchoice Cordless Rechargeable Table Lamp is a solid choice. With its current 42% discount, picking up a few to use throughout your home feels like an easy upgrade that makes a noticeable difference.

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Ghirardelli is recalling more than a dozen of its popular powdered beverage and dessert mixes—including its hot chocolate and frappe products—over health concerns.

The cult-favorite chocolate company announced a voluntary recall on Monday, stating that the affected products have "the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella." Ghirardelli explained that the possible contamination is linked to a recall initially issued by California Dairies, Inc., one of its suppliers that provides the milk powder used in several of its mixes.

According to the April 27 announcement, the affected mixes include select varieties of its Chocolate Flavored FrappeMix, Classic White Frappe, Premium Hot Cocoa Pouches, Chocolate & Cocoa Sweet Ground Powder (for beverages and desserts), Frozen Hot Cocoa Frappe Mix, Mocha Frappe Mix, White Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder (also for beverages and desserts), Vanilla Frappe Mix, and White Mocha Frappe Mix.

Recalled Ghirardelli Products: What You Need to Know

The company said the recalled items were packaged in "large formats intended for food service and institutional customers," but acknowledges that some powdered beverage mixes may also have been available for purchase by consumers through e-commerce platforms, so if you purchased the product online, you'll definitely want to check the lot numbers and best-by dates before you use the mix.

Related: Ghirardelli’s New Brownie Mix Is a First for the Brand—and Fans Are Already Loving It

The affected product names, lot numbers and best-by dates can be found listed below or in the official recall announcement, which also includes images of the products.

30-lb. Chocolate Flavored Frappe

• Lot number S195260A03; "Best if used by" date 5/31/2027
• Lot number S195261A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S291260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S295260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S596260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S191260A03; "Best if used by" date 8/31/2027
• Lot number S291261A03; "Best if used by" date 8/31/2027

30-lb. Classic White Frappe

• Lot number S396260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S496260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027

4/2-lb. Premium Hot Cocoa Pouch Bulk

• Lot number S550250A04; "Best if used by" date 5/31/2027
• Lot number S149250A04; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S249250A04; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S349250A04; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S449250A04; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S549250A04; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027

6/3-lb. Chocolate & Cocoa Sweet Ground Powder

• Lot number S293260; "Best if used by" date 12/31/2027
• Lot number S293261; "Best if used by" date 1/31/2028

6/3.12-lb. White Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder

• Lot number S394260; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S494260; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S594260; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027

6/3-lb. Vanilla Frappe Mix

• Lot number S495260; "Best if used by" date 3/31/2027
• Lot number S495261; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S594262; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027

6/3.12-lb. Chocolate Flavored Frappe Mix

• Lot number S397261; "Best if used by" date 2/28/2027
• Lot number S397262; "Best if used by" date 4/30/2027
• Lot number S397263; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027

6/3.12-lb. Classic White Frappe Mix

• Lot number S193260; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S193261; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027

10-lb. Chocolate Flavored Frappe Mix

• Lot number S295260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S395260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027

10-lb. Classic White Frappe Mix

• Lot number S296260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S292260A03; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S292260A03; "Best if used by" date 8/31/2027
• Lot number S292261A03; "Best if used by" date 8/31/2027

6/3.12-lb. White Mocha Frappe Mix

• Lot number S297261; "Best if used by" date 5/31/2027
• Lot number S297262; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S393262; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027

6/3.12-lb. Mocha Frappe Mix

• Lot number S295261; "Best if used by" date 4/30/2027
• Lot number S295262; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S395260; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S588260; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S187260; "Best if used by" date 8/31/2027

6/3.12-lb. Frozen Hot Cocoa Frappe Mix

• Lot number S195260; "Best if used by" date 5/31/2027
• Lot number S195261; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S295260; "Best if used by" date 6/30/2027
• Lot number S393260; "Best if used by" date 7/31/2027
• Lot number S487260; "Best if used by" date 9/30/2027
• Lot number S587260; "Best if used by" date 9/30/2027

Thankfully, no illnesses have been reported to date.

Consumers who purchased one of the recalled powdered beverage mixes listed above are instructed not to use the product, as Salmonella infections can be serious and sometimes fatal, and instead contact Ghirardelli Chocolate Company directly at 1-844-776-0419.

Next: Godiva Celebrates 100 Years With New Centennial Chocolate Collection

A Spotify playlist made by Dianna Russini for someone named "Mike" has surfaced in the wake of her alleged cheating scandal with Mike Vrabel.

Two weeks ago, photos published in the New York Post showed the former Athletic reporter and the New England Patriots coach holding hands and hugging at a luxury hotel in Arizona.

After the pictures went viral, Russini and Vrabel both called the photos “misleading” and vehemently denied rumors of an affair. The journalist has been married to Kevin Goldschmidt since 2020 while the football coach and his wife Jennifer have been married since 1999.

Nevertheless, Russini resigned from the publication on Apr. 14, and Vrabel announced on Thursday, Apr. 23 that he would be seeking counseling in the wake of the scandal.

Later on Apr. 23, Page Six released photos that appeared to show Russini and Vrabel kissing at a bar in New York City in March 2020—seemingly confirming the alleged affair and sparking questions about the timeline of the pair’s relationship.

Adding fuel to the fire, David Covucci of FOIAball posted screenshots of a Spotify account reportedly belonging to the NFL reporter to X on Monday, Apr. 27.

The photos capture a playlist titled "TURNIN THE PAGE," that Russini seemingly shared with a user named "Mike" on Dec. 19, 2022. The date is one day after the Tennessee Titans, coached by Vrabel at the time, lost their fourth game in a row.

RELATED: Dianna Russini Tweet From 2021 Resurfaces, Fueling Mike Vrabel Affair Rumors

Dianna Russini made a Spotify playlist called "TURNIN THE PAGE" that she shared with a user named "Mike" on December 19, 2022.

Which just so happens to coincide with a four-game Titans losing streak pic.twitter.com/IkIdwLUPHi

— David Covucci (@DavidCovucci) April 27, 2026

The 15-song playlist includes hits from Beyonce, Latto, Sam Hunt, Papa Roach, Def Leppard, Kiss, Van Halen, Styx, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. TMZ reports that, in the past, Vrabel was known to play songs from the collection at practice.

The account has since deleted their Spotify profile, and the "Mike" account in question has changed its name to "Tycar." Vrabel's two sons are named Tyler and Carter.

Russini and Vrabel have not publicly addressed the alleged playlist.

RELATED: Mike Vrabel Speaks Out for the First Time Since Release of Dianna Russini Photos From 2020

Shortly after Trader Joe's announced a national release date for its pastel mini tote bags for spring, rumors began to spread that the grocery chain would soon be releasing a fresh new collection of the popular item. While Trader Joe's isn't giving away any information on the release date of the striped mini canvas totes, Shannon Fong, who runs the Instagram account Trader Joe's Obsessed, claimed to have unearthed photos of the bags.

While Fong speculated that the bags would cost the usual price of $2.99, they urged their followers not to "call the stores and bother the amazing crew members." Despite this, one chimed in with a request for the influencer.

"As a crew member, please stop posting these sneak peeks," wrote a frustrated worker. "For real," replied one person. "It's exhausting," another responded.

Others questioned how she was getting info that they hadn't even received yet. One person noted that the bags in the photos looked exactly like the spring pastel mini totes -- with stripes added.

"Seriously would love to know how you get your info?" asked a baffled crew worker. "You must work at corporate office because there are no photos of these in our employee store bulletin."

However, while Trader Joe's employees may wish mini tote mania would disappear, a glance at most of the comments shows it's not happening anytime soon.

"Please let us know at the exact second you find out when they’re releasing these in store!" Commented one excited fan. "Not a minute later!"

"Omg, these are gonna sell out faster than the lavender tote," another added.

Over the years, the company has rolled out several limited-edition varieties. Colors such as orange, black, purple, and green for Halloween, and adorable, comfort-food-themed bags are just a couple of the collections that have gone viral. This is due in large part to the status symbol that the bags have become.

For those who weren't able to stand in line to buy a bag, or don't live in the U.S., a pricier alternative has appeared. Mini tote bags are on resale sites like Poshmark, eBay, and Depop for staggering prices. It's clear that something has become a cultural phenomenon when paying 5 times the original price is considered a steal.

Few movie endings put audiences on the edge of their seats like the final scene in the 1987 movie Fatal Attraction, which starred Glenn Close and Michael Douglas. While the psychological thriller's ending ranks among the very best, you may be surprised to learn that the original Fatal Attraction ending in the script was even more disturbing.

In their ranking of the “10 Best Psychological Thriller Movie Endings,” CBR ranked Fatal Attraction's final scene as No. 6. The ending beats out the ones from several other wild thrillers over the decades, including Cape Fear (1991) with Robert DeNiro, Donnie Darko (2001) with Jake Gyllenhaal, and The Invisible Man (2020) with Elisabeth Moss, among others.

Viewers can't seem to get magnitude of this film out of their heads. Fatal Attraction was also ranked No. 4 in Collider's recent "10 Most Intense Movies of the 1980s" list.

Article warning: This story contains sensitive content, including references to self-harm, that may be difficult for some readers. Please read with care.

Related: 1979 Movie’s Opening Scene Still Haunts a Generation—Now It’s Ranked One of the Most Terrifying Ever

In the Fatal Attraction ending you know (spoilers ahead if you don't!), Alex Forrest (Close) becomes completely unhinged after Dan Gallagher (Douglas), the married man she had an affair with cuts off contact with her. In the ultimate act of revenge, Alex heads to Dan's to take it out murderously on his wife, Beth Gallagher (Anne Archer) by charging her with a knife in the bathroom. Dan saves the day and drowns Alex in the family bathtub, which is terrible EXCEPT ... she isn't really dead, and [JUMP SCARE] she shoots up out of the water. Beth then shoots her dead. It's quite an awful scene all around.

In the original ending, however, instead of a bloody bathroom battle, homicide detectives arrive and inform Dan that Alex is dead—her throat cut by a 9-inch kitchen knife, a knife Dan flashes back to definitely touching at her house. He panics realizing Alex is framing him for her murder, the detectives haul him in for questioning, and Beth is left to pick up the pieces. Luckily, she finds a cassette tape Alex recorded for Dan, on which Alex greatly details her emotional turmoil and admits, "I'll kill myself, I will..." Beth rushes off to take the tape to the cops, presumably to clear Dan's name. Cut to Alex in her own bathroom listening to Madama Butterfly opera, that kitchen knife against her neck before we fade to black. Oof.

In an interview with The New York Times, Close says the original script also included an earlier scene of "Alex at the opera alone, watching Butterfly kill herself." Close explains, "That was never filmed. I’m sure it was a financial consideration. But without that scene, the ending didn’t have the resonance it would have."

Turns out, test audiences loved Fatal Attraction until the ending where Alex dies by suicide. Douglas told the NYT, "The audience viscerally wanted to kill Alex, not allow her to kill herself."

But Close admits, "I loved the original ending. I always felt Alex was more suicidal than psychotic." She says she fought against reshooting a new ending for two weeks. "It was going to make a character I loved into a murdering psychopath."

Of course, the original ending with its death by suicide and possible framing of Dan for murder has an even darker psychological tone than ultimate self-defense finale where beloved Beth gets a more justified last say in what happens. I mean, if "crazy ex-lover" Alex comes at you with a knife, you gotta defend yourself, right? But what does it say if Alex turns to self-harm instead, particularly about Dan's part in it. It makes Alex's obsession with Dan and mental state all the more unsettling and hard to swallow. This changes the moral implications quite a bit.

Fatal Attraction was released on September 16, 1987, and became a box office sensation, earning $156.6 million at the box office in the U.S., as well as $163.4 million internationally.

Watch the original Fatal Attraction ending that was filmed but never made it to theaters:

This is the complete Original ending to 1987 FATAL ATTRACTION

It only played in test screenings, and audiences hated it because it's much darker, sinister, but also more realistic to the character.

Glenn Close and Michael Douglas were extremely upset the studio didn't use it. pic.twitter.com/JAr3VZX1Or

— Hollywood Horror Museum (@horrormuseum) February 21, 2026

Watch the official Fatal Attraction trailer:

Fatal Attraction is currently available for streaming via Paramount+, Prime Video, Pluto TV, and AppleTV, where certain fees may apply.

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In 1977, a heartfelt ballad took over the airwaves and refused to let go.

"You Light Up My Life," performed by Debby Boone, became one of the most dominant songs of its era, spending an incredible 10 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

At the time, that achievement made it one of the longest-running No. 1 hits not only of the 1970s, but in chart history. The song's remarkable staying power reflected its widespread appeal, resonating with listeners across genres and generations.

"I think I went into shock for about three years," Boone told Oprah of the song's success. "Every once in a while, like watching [an] old tape, you relive it and you go, 'Did this really happen to me?'"

Originally written by Joe Brooks for the film of the same name, the track quickly took on a life of its own. Boone's version stood out for its sincerity and emotional clarity, with her powerful yet restrained vocal delivery giving the song a deeply personal feel.

"Producer Mike Curb approached me about a solo career and brought me the orchestrations from the movie's soundtrack," Boone told Broadway World. "My parents encouraged me to record a cover version for Warner-Curb Records. The original ghost singer for Didi Conn in You Light Up My Life was Kasey Cysik but she and the film's director had creative differences. My music producer, Mike Curb, promoted my studio cut and it aired on August 16, 1977 when I first heard it on the radio."

Unlike many hits of the disco-dominated era, "You Light Up My Life" leaned into simplicity, focusing on melody, lyrics and emotion rather than production trends. That contrast helped it stand apart, making it a crossover success that appealed to a wide audience. The song even earned Boone a Grammy Award for Best New Artist.

The song's message of love, faith and emotional connection struck a chord, turning it into a staple of weddings, performances and pop culture moments for decades to come. It was later covered by country star LeAnn Rimes, and while the single did not reach the of the charts, the album, which featured the track, achieved gold status.

More than 40 years later, its legacy remains intact. Few songs manage to hold the top spot for as long or leave such a lasting impression.

"You Light Up My Life" endures as a timeless anthem, proving that sometimes the most powerful songs are the ones built on pure emotion and universal themes.

Related: 1970 Timeless Classic, Originally a Major Flop, Became a No. 1 Hit

Few desserts on Earth are as reliably delicious as a classic chocolate chip cookie.

Whether you prefer a soft and chewy texture or a firm and crunchy surface, there's something so refreshingly simple about a chocolate chip cookie, allowing us each to return to the glory days of our childhood with each and every bite.

While a plain old choc chip cookie is, of course, always a fantastic dessert option, Costco is officially rolling out a brand-new cookie flavor that might very well be the most exciting we've heard from the grocery supplier yet.

According to a recent post on Instagram, multiple shoppers have stumbled across Costco's new Sweet and Salty Cookie, an inventive new bakery item that blends sweet and savory together into one effortlessly delicious dessert.

As the name might suggest, the base of the Sweet and Salty Cookie features a traditional chocolate chip cookie made with brown butter dough. For added saltiness, Costco then added in crushed pretzel bits and salted caramel pieces, paving the way to a treat as refreshingly straightforward as it is unwaveringly tasty.

"Costco just brought in these sweet and salty cookies and they look SO good 😍," the popular food blogger costcofam4u summarized. "At $10.99, these are perfect for parties, kids snacks, or honestly just keeping on the counter because they won’t last long.👀"

As the food blogger mentioned, packs of the new Costco cookies are currently listed at $10.99. All packs feature 24 individual cookies.

As one might expect, the new bakery item's arrival has met with instant popularity among fans of the warehouse brand, many of whom were quick to voice their excitement across social media.

"Dang!!" one fan wrote. "These look fire."

As great as the new desserts might sound, it's worth remembering that, like any Costco item, it's not currently known how long the desserts will be around. With that being said, you might want to think about getting your packs of the cookie sooner rather than later!

It's been more than two decades since Friends first wrapped, but for the cast, the hit sitcom continues to be the gift that keeps on giving.

Lisa Kudrow recently opened up about how much she and her castmates are still receiving in residuals, and the amount is still staggering.

While speaking to The Times of London, Kudrow shared that she and her Friends co-stars are still cashing checks for $20 million per year, following their decade of dominating primetime television. That's a hefty paycheck rolling in for Kudrow, as well as Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc. Matthew Perry, who famously played Chandler Bing, died in 2023.

The outlet shared that in the UK, Friends is still incredibly popular. In the US, it remains in syndication, with reruns airing on Nick at Night and TBS.

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As for why Friends ranks among top sitcoms after all this time, Kudrow jokingly suggested it could be thanks to her character, Phoebe Buffay. Then, she opened up about revisiting the show many years later.

"After Matthew died, I watched the show again," Kudrow explained. "Before, I only saw what I did wrong or could have done better. But for the first time, I truly appreciated just how great it was. I felt I did OK, but Jennifer and Courteney? Amazing. David and Matt? They had me laughing so hard. And then Matthew — he was just beyond us all."

Despite wrapping in 2004, Friends has never really faded from popularity and continues to draw new audiences with each generation. Even though television has evolved dramatically since it aired weekly, strong syndication and streaming deals have kept Friends at the forefront of comfort viewing, and that translates to an impressive payout for the cast, who could live comfortably on those residual payments alone.

If you were to envision someone with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, you likely picture someone older, like Michael J. Fox or Harrison Ford’s character on Apple TV+’s Shrinking. 

Common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement and balance problems. These symptoms typically start after age 60 and predominantly affect men. 

Jessica Krauser, a mom of two living in Ohio, certainly didn’t fit the stereotype of someone with Parkinson’s disease. Young and healthy, she had a successful career as the head of marketing at a pharmaceutical company. But then, she started experiencing symptoms consistent with Parkinson’s disease and was officially diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease at age 37. 

Related: Michael J. Fox Says Parkinson's Could Be Eradicated Within 40 Years

Now, Krauser is devoting much of her time to spreading awareness about the disease through her podcast, "The Secret Life of Parkinson’s," and her non-profit, Changing Parkinson’s. Her goal is to help people living with the disease feel less alone, offer education and empower them to take control of their journey and live a full life.

Parade talked with Krauser about her health journey, including the very first symptom she noticed and the medical technology that has completely changed her life.   

Related: The Surprising Sign You May Be At Risk for Parkinson's Disease

Jessica Krauser

The First Symptom She Noticed

Krauser was 35 when she experienced her first symptom of early-onset Parkinson’s disease. “The first noticeable symptom I recognized was a tremor in my hand,” she tells Parade. She brought it up with her primary care physician, who told her to book an appointment with a neurologist if the tremor didn’t go away. “I remember thinking, ‘Wow, that seems like a big deal for a little tremor,'" she explains.

Since the tremor was only mild, she didn’t book an appointment right away. Instead, she kept living her normal life. A year later, she was training for a half-marathon and noticed pain in her foot and tightness in her calf. She figured it was related to her training. 

But when she went to a gynecologist appointment later that year and couldn’t stop shaking as her doctor tried to do an exam, her gynecologist asked her about her symptoms and then recommended that Krauser see a neurologist. This time, Krauser made the appointment.

Related: 'Catching Breast Cancer Early at 31 Years Old Saved My Life—Here's What I Wish Everyone Knew About Early Detection'

Getting the Diagnosis

There is no single, definitive lab test for Parkinson’s disease. Because of that, Krauser says the first step was ruling out other medical conditions through various lab tests, exams and imaging tests like MRIs. During this time, Krauser was also doing her own research to get to the bottom of what was causing her symptoms.

Two years after her initial symptoms began, Krauser’s research led her to self-diagnose herself with early-onset Parkinson’s disease, which the neurologist later confirmed. “When I got my diagnosis, I was relieved, because I now knew I wasn’t crazy,” she says.

A Life-Changing Operation  

By this point, Krauser’s symptoms were drastically impacting her life. Though her workplace was supportive of anything she needed, when she was 39, Krauser decided to step back to part-time work in a more supportive role. Presenting was a big part of her job, and many people who watched her present misinterpreted her tremors as nervousness. “I wasn’t nervous. I had been doing this job for 20 years. It just looked like I was,” she notes.

Krauser’s doctor told her that exercising could help with her symptoms, so she started going to a local gym specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

“I connected with the owner, who is just 10 years older than me, and she created this amazing community. I was nervous to see other people with Parkinson’s, but it’s not what you think. Everyone expects people with Parkinson’s to be in wheelchairs or have walkers, but they were able-bodied people who could drive, do burpees and all these things,” Krauser says. For her, finding this community was a key step into accepting she had Parkinson’s and feeling empowered to start living her best life ever.

Working part-time gave Krauser more time to focus on her podcast, where she shares her personal journey with Parkinson’s and interviews others. Her producer, who also has Parkinson’s, suggested that Krauser interview his doctor at the Cleveland Clinic about adaptive deep brain stimulation (DBS), technology that uses electrodes to stimulate regions of the brain affected by Parkinson’s.

Adaptive DBS is kind of like a pacemaker for the brain. It uses implanted electrodes to monitor the brain’s electrical signals in real time and adjust its stimulation intensity to match one’s current symptoms. It does this by sending electrical impulses to adjust abnormal brain activity, bringing more balance to the brain and body.

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After learning about adaptive DBS, Krauser scheduled an appointment with a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic to see if she was a fit for this new, promising treatment. Not everyone with Parkinson’s disease is fit for adaptive DBS. Krauser says she had to have a series of appointments with various specialists to determine if it was something she could benefit from. For example, individuals with Parkinson’s who aren’t responding well to medication or who also have dementia are typically not a fit. Fortunately, Krauser was.

Adaptive DBS requires three brain surgeries. At Cleveland Clinic, these surgeries are each spaced out two weeks apart, but Krauser says that some places do all three surgeries the same day. During these surgeries (Krauser’s took place last summer, when she was 43), a small hole is drilled into the brain and an electrode (a thin, insulated wire) is implanted into specific brain areas.

An insulated extension wire is placed under the skin and connects the brain to a battery pack near the collarbone. This battery pack is the DBS system’s powerhouse and needs to be charged regularly by using a portable recharger that emits energy through the skin.

Recovery and Life Now

Krauser says the recovery from the surgeries was minimal. They didn’t even give her a headache. What’s more remarkable is how adaptive DBS has impacted her symptoms. Now, she doesn’t have any tremors or other symptoms at all. 

The battery pack has an on-off switch, and Krauser says that when it’s turned off (or her battery pack is running low), her tremors start immediately. But as soon as she turns the switch on, they go away completely. 

Even though adaptive DBS has relieved Krauser of her symptoms, she’s chosen not to go back to her former job. Now at 44, she’s committing her time to her podcast and her non-profit, Changing Parkinson’s. 

“I want people with Parkinson’s to know the importance of finding community,” Krauser says. “If anyone gets anything from my story, my podcast or Changing Parkinson’s, I hope it’s knowing that they are not alone. Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you can feel like you’re living on an island. It’s important to find at least one other person who knows exactly how you are feeling. You are not alone.”

Up Next:

Related: This 87-Year-Old Triathlete Developed a Rare Heart Condition—Here's the First Symptom She Noticed

Sources 

• What is Parkinson’s? Parkinson’s Foundation.
• Parkinson’s Disease. Cleveland Clinic.
• Trial: Adaptive DBS Is Tolerable, Effective and Safe. Cleveland Clinic.
• How Adaptive DBS Aims to Offer More Personalized and Effective Therapy. American Parkinson’s Disease Association.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

The Oscar-winning film Inception, which hit theaters in July 2010, ranks among the greatest movies of all time on IMDb.

Ever since the release of the science-fiction thriller, however, fans have debated the ending. Those discussions still pop up online as fans continue to decipher every tidbit about the final scene to try to figure out what it means.

The movie starred Leonardo DiCaprio as Dom Cobb, a thief with a unique ability. He can enter people’s dreams and steal secrets, which becomes quite lucrative for him.

When Dom is offered an opportunity to wipe out his criminal past, he is directed to plant an idea into the mind of a target.

As Dom pursues the “inception,” the process of planting that secret, his subconscious is flooded with memories of his dead wife, and the line between illusion and reality blurs.

Despite challenges along the way, Dom successfully completes the mission. He returns home to his children, but does a check to try to determine whether he is dreaming or living in reality.

As Variety explained, Dom spins a top, which is presented as his “totem,” that provides clarity on whether he is dreaming or in reality. If the top continues spinning, he is dreaming.

The controversial Inception ending leaves everybody hanging with no definitive answer. The top starts wobbling, but the screen goes black before viewers can tell if it stops or keeps spinning.

Inception was written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan. Other hit films he’s produced include The Dark Knight, Interstellar, and Oppenheimer.

The movie received eight Oscar nominations and four wins. It was nominated for Best Picture, Writing (Original Screenplay), Art Direction, and Set Direction, but did not win in those categories.

However, Inception did win in the categories of Cinematography, Visual Effects, Sound Editing, and Sound Mixing.

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In July 2023, Nolan addressed the controversial Inception ending while visiting the Happy Sad Confused podcast. He admitted that over the years, he was asked about the ending a lot. He said the “correct answer” was once pointed out by fellow producer Emma Thomas.

Nolan said, “Leo’s character...the point of the shot is the character doesn’t care at that point. It’s not a question I comfortably answer.”

Similarly, in June 2023, Nolan told Wired, “He’s moved on and is with his kids. The ambiguity is not an emotional ambiguity. It’s an intellectual one for the audience.”

Actor Michael Caine, who played Professor Stephen Miles in Inception, once said during a screening of the movie that he received a definitive answer once from Nolan.

When he questioned Nolan, Caine said he was told, “Well, when you’re in the scene, it’s reality.’ So, get that — if I’m in it, it’s reality. If I’m not in it, it’s a dream.”

Since Caine’s character is in that final scene, as he is not only a professor but also Dom’s father-in-law, it would seem that the movie ends with Dom in reality. However, not all Inception fans are convinced.

Some fans point to the presence, or lack thereof, of a wedding ring to confirm that lingering question. On Reddit several years ago, one fan wrote, “In the real world he has no ring whereas the ring is present in the dreams. In the final scene he has no ring so the ‘happy ending’ is reality.”

In response, someone shared, “I think one of the most important aspects of that final scene is that Cobb no longer cared if he was in the dream or the real world. In a sense, he gave up and just decided to be happy with his kids, whether it was real or not.”

In a more recent discussion on Reddit, an additional point generated a lot of responses. The additional layer Inception fans discussed was that the spinning top was really the totem of Dom’s dead wife, not his.

Rather, Dom's wedding ring was his totem, and it was always present when he was dreaming. Following that line of thinking, the final scene would indicate that Dom is in reality with his children, as there is no wedding ring.

Inception is a movie that continues to spark discussion among fans for its ambiguous ending. Despite what Nolan has said, new theories and tidbits of supposed evidence continue to pop up to keep people buzzing.

Dianna Russini is back in the spotlight after a resurfaced 2025 podcast clip revealed a previously overlooked story involving NFL coach Sean Payton. In August 2025, Russini went on The Bill Simmons Podcast where she mentioned receiving a voicemail from the Denver Broncos' head coach.

"You understand why he does the things he does and how he operates and when he’s in love,” Russini said on the podcast. "He’s in love with this team right now. Even this summer, coach reached out to me a few times checking in. I missed the call, which, how do you miss a head coaching call? But it happens."

Insane: A clip of former Dianna Russini saying that Broncos HC Sean Payton used to send voicemails has resurfaced online...

The Russini files never end 🫣pic.twitter.com/nwhhX6uZo6

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) April 26, 2026

"He left me a voicemail. I gotta see if I still have it," she continued. She went on to say that Payton left a short message saying, "I love my Q," likely referring to his "quarterback."

"Who does that?" Russini added. "So when I saw him [and] we caught up, I was like, ‘What’s going on?’ He’s like, ‘Di, I love this team. Wait ‘til you see.'"

Russini is an NFL insider who recently resigned from her job at The Athletic after photos of her with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel were published by Page Six. The pictures showed Vrabel and Russini—who are both married to other people—holding hands and hugging while at a resort in Arizona. Initially, both played the photos off as a moment between friends, but additional photos have since been released, one even showing the two kissing at a bar in New York City back in 2020.

Russini has not issued any statements after leaving her post at The Athletic. As far as Vrabel goes, he has addressed the media a couple of times since the scandal first broke. He missed day three of the 2026 NFL Draft to be with his family, but he returned to work on Monday, April 27.

Spy movies are one of the most popular film genres, and it's easy to see why. Many movie-goers enjoy the genre's thrilling scenes and stress-inducing storylines. However, some spy movies deserve more acclaim than others.

The publication Collider recently put out a ranking of the "10 greatest spy movie masterpieces," released after 1926. The list, published in March 2026, included hit spy films like 1975's Three Days of the Condor, Notoriousfrom 1946, Goldfinger from 1964, 2007's The Bourne Ultimatum, and Casino Royale, released in 2006.

The 2006 German film, The Lives of Others, was named as the best "spy movie masterpiece of the last 100 years." Collider reported that the movie deserved the ranking's top spot because it expertly examines the inner-conflict of Stasi agent Gerd Wiesler (Ulrich Mühe), as he monitors writer, Georg Dreyman (Sebastian Koch).

Collider noted that the movie, which takes place in the 1980s and 1990s, won the Oscar for Best International Feature Film at the 2007 Academy Awards. The Lives of Others has a score of 89 on Metacritic.

The Director & Writer of 'The Lives of Others' Said He Did Extensive Research for the 2006 Film

In a behind-the-scenes interview about The Lives of Others, the film's writer and director, Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, said he did extensive research about the East Berlin secret police and those affected by the surveillance before the movie's production. He explained that "the most important thing for [him] was to research through conversations with people who witnessed such events" to ensure the film was accurate.

"People who were imprisoned for several years, who were damaged by the whole system. And from what I was trying to find is what damaged them, in what ways they were damaged. I spoke to various Stasi officers to recognize those capacities they used on the victims. Using the two, you can piece [together] the truth," explained the German filmmaker.

He also said that he went to "the various memorials on this theme."

"I think that those places store memories, that feelings felt in a particular place don't just disappear, they are somehow still in the stones. And I felt quite a lot in those places," said von Donnersmarck.

This year marks 10 years of sweet cream at Starbucks, and to celebrate, the coffee giant is giving away one of its newest at-home offers.

The signature creamer has remained a fan-favorite menu item at the international coffeehouse chain, where it's made in-house and used as a customization tool and a key ingredient in recipes like its cold foam and cold brew. It's become so popular over the past decade that the company has added it to its retail line, dubbing the collection Starbucks Sweet Cream Enhancers. And today, it announced it's giving away cartons of its home-use sweet cream for free for a limited time as part of a special, commemorative partnership with Top Chef and Traitors alumKristen Kish.

Its new campaign is a play on "dupe culture," in which the chef and TV personality suggests Starbucks Sweet Cream is a staple that white-labeled products, cheaper alternatives, or copycat recipes can't replace.

Starbucks Celebrates 10 Years of Sweet Cream With Special Promo

Starbucks first introduced its Sweet Cream at its cafes in May 2016, and ever since, fans have enjoyed it at the coffeehouse and at home with DIY recipes and, more recently, its Sweet Cream Enhancers line (available in Brown Sugar, Vanilla and White Chocolate Macadamia flavors). The difference between Starbucks' retail creamers and its Enhancers is seemingly subtle, but the Sweet Cream Enhancers are said to offer a silkier texture than the original creamer line.

Related: Starbucks Launches 5 New Health-Conscious Drink Creations

Starbucks is so confident that once consumers try it, they'll never turn back that it's prepared to give away a limited number of Sweet Cream Enhancers next month. So if you've ever "duped" the original, now's your chance to try the real deal for free.

How to Get Starbucks Sweet Cream Enhancer for Free

The limited-time offer will be available beginning on May 31, marking 10 years to the day of its initial launch, exclusively through Instacart. Here's how the giveaway will work: online shoppers will need to add a bottle of Starbucks Sweet Cream Enhancers to their cart and the deduction will be made at checkout, as long as supplies last (delivery fees may vary).

Next: Starbucks Is Rolling Out 2 New Summer Drinkware Collections, Including a Miffy Collab

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If you're looking for a chic way to add some extra storage space to your home, Walmart's top-rated Sicotas Arched Display Cabinet does just that. It features multiple tiers of adjustable shelving and comes in two beautiful wood finishes: light oak and caramel oak. And right now, it's on sale for over $100 off.  

For a limited time, the versatile cabinet is on sale for nearly 30% off in both colors: Snag the caramel oak option at $260, down from $370, and the light oak at $270, down from $380. If you need more than one cabinet to fill up a larger space, you can also shop two and three-pack options at varying prices. 

Sicotas Arched Display Cabinet, $260 (was $370) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

At 82.4 inches high, the tall cabinet helps maximize vertical storage in any space, whether you're using it as a traditional bookcase, a decorative piece for collectibles, or as extra storage in your kitchen or office. It has three adjustable shelves, each designed to hold up to 77 pounds, and a closed bottom cabinet that's ideal for keeping miscellaneous clutter tucked away. 

Featuring an arched silhouette, natural rattan detailing, and rose gold hardware, the cabinet has an upscale, elegant look that fits in seamlessly with whimsical, farmhouse, or coastal decor styles.  The rattan doors and wood tones add texture and warmth to any space, while the sturdy wooden legs ensure stability even on uneven floors. 

Related: Walmart's 'Gorgeous' $125 5-Drawer Dresser Has 'Ample Storage' to Declutter Closets and Entryways

The Sicotas cabinet has earned plenty of praise from Walmart shoppers, who called it "elegant and practical." One reviewer said the "beautiful" design "looks high end," adding that the "arched design elevates my space." Another praised its generous size, noting that it offers "lots of storage space."

Shop More Deals

• Spanspace Large Sideboard Buffet Cabinet with Storage, From $150 (was $260) at Walmart
• Homfa Kitchen Cabinet, $120 (was $225) at Walmart
• Homfa 55-Inch Wide Buffet Credenza, $180 (was $190) at Walmart 

Skip the clunky plastic bins or bulky boxes, and add some stylish yet functional storage to your home with this rattan arched cabinet. Get one while both colors are in stock and on sale for $110 off at Walmart.

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