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There's something about cooking lobster that can make even the most confident home cook pause for a beat. The ruby red shellfish has a fancy, white tablecloth reputation and is often reserved for special occasions, like holidays, anniversaries or a romanticValentine's Day dinner for two. Plus, if you're cooking whole lobsters, you have to buy them live and bring them home—and then what?

Being a little intimidated by making lobster at home is reasonable, but whipping up a restaurant-style meal in your kitchen is easier than you think. All you need to succeed is a little information, plus some guidance and reassurance, all of which will give you the confidence you need to turn that lobster into a dinner that you'll be proud to serve.

That’s why we enlisted the help of Gülsün Akdemir Evrendilek, Ph.D., Associate Extension Professor and Seafood Technology and Food Safety Specialist at The University of Maine. (After all, folks in Maine know a thing or two about lobster, right?) Her tips and expert advice will help you learn exactly how to cook lobster at home. From buying the best shellfish to prepping it correctly, she's got you covered. And when you're ready to cook, her clear instructions will help you boil, steam or roast the lobster to perfection.

Once you master the basics, there’s no shortage of lobster recipes and cooking methods to try, all of which are sure to impress your guests (and maybe you'll impress yourself, too). Here’s your no-fuss guide to buying and cooking lobster like a pro.

Related: 18 Overflowing Seafood Platter and Tower Recipes for the Frutti di Mare Fans

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5 Tips for Buying a Good Lobster

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There are certain things to look out for when buying lobster to ensure you're getting the freshest seafood possible. Your senses (sight, smell and even touch) can be a useful guide in this process, so trust your instincts and follow these tips for the best results.

1. Do your fish market research

"Fresh is best" is a good motto to live by when it comes to many ingredients, but especially when buying lobster. Research reputable fish markets near you where turnover is high, so you can feel confident the seafood hasn't been sitting around.

2. Look for lively lobster

“First things first: liveliness matters. A good lobster should be active and responsive, twitching its legs or antennae when you handle it," Dr. Evrendilek tells Parade. "If it just flops around or barely moves, that’s a red flag that it might not be so fresh anymore."

3. Inspect the shell

Next up, take a good look at your prospective dinner. "You want a lobster with a clean, healthy-looking shell. Sure, shells come in a mix of dark greens, browns, or even reddish tones, but they should look intact and free from big cracks or damage," says Dr. Evrendilek. Dull or banged-up shells indicate lobsters that may have been sitting out for too long, so it's best to avoid those.

4. Your nose knows

As with most types of seafood, smell can be a useful guide in determining which lobsters are fresh and which are past their prime. “Smell is another giveaway. A fresh lobster should remind you of the ocean—briny, clean and crisp," Dr. Evrendilek explains. "If you get any sharp, fishy or ammonia-like odors, steer clear."

5. Give it a lift

A lobster's weight or heftiness can also be an indicator of quality. "A lobster that feels heavy for its size usually means it’s packed with sweet, delicious meat rather than being all water," says Dr. Evrendilek. Unless you’re picking up the lobster yourself, you won’t know how much it weighs or how hefty it is, but you can always ask the counter attendant.

Related: Trader Joe’s Viral Lobster Pasta Dish is Easy, Delicious and You Won’t Break the Bank

How to Humanely Kill a Lobster

Cooking lobster at home is a hands-on activity, for better or worse, and there’s some debate on how to dispatch a lobster humanely. If you’re a bit squeamish about hearing about the demise of a crustacean, feel free to jump to the next section.

If you're still with us, let's start with the most important part: The best method for killing lobster should minimize suffering and be as quick as possible.

Dr. Evrendilek has an ethical way that’s swift and thorough. “If you want to cook lobster at home and keep things as humane as possible, the best way is a quick, decisive action," she tells Parade. "Using a sharp knife to sever the lobster’s brain brings about immediate death. After that, you can plunge it straight into boiling water to make sure there’s no lingering movement.

"Some folks recommend chilling or freezing the lobster first to numb it a bit, which might make the process feel less harsh," Dr. Evrendilek adds. "But in most kitchens, the fast knife technique is considered the quickest and kindest way to do it.”

If you're still unsure about how to do it, this video from chef Andrew Zimmern helps illustrate the approach that Dr. Evrendilek mentions. In the video, Zimmern places the live lobster on a kitchen towel to soak up the liquid and to prevent the lobster from sliding around. Next, he sticks a sharp, broad chef's knife between the first joint at the back of its shell and its eyes. Press the knife straight down (all the way to the cutting board) and the lobster will die immediately, making this the most humane way to go about it. From there, you can proceed with your preferred cooking method.

If live lobster isn’t an option, a decent alternative is frozen lobster tails or claws. Just make sure they’re vacuum-sealed and sourced sustainably.

Related: I Tried Costco’s Viral Lobster Mac & Cheese To See if It Lives up to the Hype

3 Common Ways To Cook Lobster

Ozgur Coskun via Getty Images

Now that your lobster is ready to cook, you have to figure out exactly how to cook it. Boiling, steaming and roasting are three of the most common ways to prepare lobster and all three methods take roughly the same amount of time: only 10 minutes. Here's how to cook things up at your house.

How To Boil Lobster

The boiling method is good for large batches. The pot should be large enough to comfortably hold the lobster(s). If you're cooking average-size (say 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds) lobsters, an 8-quart pot will hold one lobster, and a 16-quart pot will hold 2 to 3. If you're cooking for a crowd, you're either going to need a bigger pot or will need to cook a few at a time.

When boiling lobster, you're looking for a bright red shell and opaque meat. But the color isn't a sure indicator of doneness. For tender lobster, you're looking for a temperature of around 135°-140°F in the tail meat, so this is a good time to have your instant-read thermometer handy. Ready to go? Here's what to do.

1. Start by filling the pot about 3/4 of the way full and adding about 1 tablespoon of salt for every quart of water. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Place the lobsters in, head down and one at a time, and cover the pot.
3. Cook for about 8–15 minutes, depending on the size of the lobster. A 1-pound lobster takes about 8 minutes, while a 2-pound lobster takes roughly 15 minutes. Add 1–2 minutes for each additional quarter pound. Start the timer once the water comes back to a simmer. When you think it might be done, check the temperature of the tail.
4. Using long tongs, remove the lobster from the pot and let it rest for about 5 minutes.

How To Steam Lobster

Steaming is a more gentle cooking technique than boiling and locks in flavor. According to Dr. Evrendilek, steaming “helps the lobster meat stay moist and tender, and preserves more of that fresh-from-the-sea flavor."

Steamed lobster also tends to pull away from the shell more easily, so this method could save you some frustration when it's time to get cracking. "If you really want to showcase the lobster’s natural taste, steaming is usually the winner," Dr. Evrendilek says.

1. To steam lobster, start by adding 1–2 inches of salted water to the bottom of a large stockpot.
2. Place a steaming rack or basket at the bottom of the pot, just above the water level. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Keep the bands on the lobsters and place them into the pot, one at a time, in a single layer. Cover the pot. 
4. Carefully lift the lid halfway through cooking to rotate the lobsters so they cook evenly. A 1-pound lobster takes roughly 10 minutes to steam; a 1 1/2 pound lobster will take about 12 to 13 minutes. If the lobster's shell isn't bright red, let it steam for a couple more minutes and check back. Again, remember that you can use a thermometer to check for doneness in the tail. (You're looking for 135°-140°F.)
5. After cooking, run the lobster under very cold water to stop the cooking process.

Related: The Absolute Best Way To Cook Salmon, According to Chef Andrew Zimmern

How To Roast Lobster

Roasting a live lobster requires them to be killed first, either by partially boiling, steaming or humanely killing them with a knife. This cooking method adds a slightly smoky flavor to the meat. Follow the steps that Dr. Evrendilek has outlined, starting with the prep work.

1. Humanely kill the lobster, then carefully split it in half from head to tail with a sharp knife. If you’d like, separate the claws because they often take longer to cook.
2. Next, clean up the lobsters a bit. You'll want to remove the green tomalley (which is the lobster's digestive gland, found somewhere in the chest area, that looks like green paste) and the dark intestinal vein in the tail, and give the whole lobster a rinse if needed.
3. Then it's time to season. Lay the lobster halves shell-side down on a baking sheet. Brush the exposed meat generously with melted butter, salt, pepper and maybe add some garlic or lemon.
4. Transfer the seasoned lobster to a preheated oven (at 400–425°F) and cook for about 10–15 minutes, depending on its size. When the tail meat hits around 135°-140°F and turns opaque and the shell is bright red, you’re good to go.

Related: The Simple Way to Make a Lobster Roll 10x Better

5 Good-To-Know Lobster Handling and Cooking Tips

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With this handy, detailed guide, hopefully, you’re feeling a bit more confident about cooking a lobster. Here are a few more tips and suggestions to help you make the most of this tasty shellfish.

1. Don’t skimp on flavor

Season your cooking liquid. Add wine, lemon slices or a complementary seasoning blend, like Old Bay. 

2. Choose your lid wisely

Make sure the lid fits onto your pot tightly. Lobsters have been known to crawl out. 

3. Don’t forget your tools

When it’s time to cut open the shell, you’ll need some kind of cracker and picker. Also have a kitchen towel ready to protect your hand while opening the lobster.

4. Use a thermometer to test doneness

If you’re concerned about the lobster not being fully cooked, Dr. Evrendilek suggests sticking an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the tail (avoiding the shell). "You’re looking for 135–140°F, and remember it’ll keep cooking a touch after you remove it from the heat," she says. She also notes that if you “tug gently on a small antenna near the head [and] it comes off easily, the lobster is likely cooked through.”

5. Respect the species

"Lobster is a precious resource, so try not to waste any of it," Dr. Evrendilek stresses. "Buy only what you need, cook it with care and make sure to serve reasonable portions so nothing ends up in the trash." She adds, "Choosing lobster from responsible, well-managed fisheries also helps protect ocean ecosystems for future generations.”

Up Next:

Related: Red Lobster Launches Totally Unexpected Collab for Valentine's Day

Source:

• Gülsün Akdemir Evrendilek, Ph.D., Associate Extension Professor and Seafood Technology and Food Safety Specialist

Rik Emmett defended his decision to return to the road with Triumph 30 years after their last major tour— and following his vow that he’d retired from touring.

In a February 2026 interview with 100 FM The Pike, the Triumph guitarist and vocalist explained that the upcoming tour in honor of the band’s 50th anniversary was impossible to turn down.

 "What's happening here is that everybody that I do interviews with goes, 'Hey, Rik, you're such a lying hypocrite,’” Emmett, 72, revealed to host Mike Hsu. “I'm human. But things sort of accumulated to the point where it's almost like hands got behind me and pushed me out onto the stage, into the spotlight again.”

Emmett explained that after Triumph songs were played at hockey playoff and World Series games and an all-star  Triumph tribute album, Magic Power, was released last year, fans began to beg to hear the songs played live once again.

“People are saying, 'Yeah, 'Fight The Good Fight', 'Never Surrender', 'Hold On', 'Magic Power'. Come on, let's go. We wanna see this happen live. We wanna have a communion with you guys,’” Emmett shared. “And we went, 'Oh, man. Okay. Well, let's see if we can organize it in a way that'll make it good.'"

Rik Emmett teased Triumph’s 2026  tour

As for what fans can expect for the upcoming Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded Tour, Emmett told Hsu, “I think it's fair to say that in its heyday, Triumph was really more about just going out there and kicking a--, and it was a big system and, yes, there was pyro and, yes, there were lasers and there's probably gonna be all that stuff too. But to be honest, I think it's more about just getting out there and kicking a--."

"I think the largest aspect of things is also curiosity, that fans from way back are coming to say, 'Can he still hit the high notes? Is he gonna wear those spandex pants?'" he added. “And so you have to sort of, not cater to it, but I think it's important that you take that into consideration as you're figuring out how you're gonna make it happen."

For the 2026 tour, Emmett and fellow founding members Mike Levine (bass, keyboards) and Gil Moore (drums, vocals) will be joined by guitarist Phil X, bassist Todd Kerns, and drummer/keyboardist Brent Fitz.

RELATED:  ‘80s Rocker Calls Out Former Bandmates Amid Reunion Tours

Never say never

Triumph was formed in 1975 in Canada by Emmett, Levine, and Moore. The arena rockers, best known for the 1970s and ‘80s hits “Lay It on the Line,” “Fight the Good Fight,” and “Magic Power,”  last hit the road for their Edge of Excess tour in 1993.

In 2019, Emmett explained his decision to retire from touring with Triumph, telling Music Life magazine, “I just got to a point where I still love to play, and I don't mind performing, although there is a little more anxiety now than there used to be. The big thing was traveling. I just didn't want to have to go to all these airports and in and out of hotels and in and out of taxicabs and whatever.  …I have retired from the road, but I haven't retired from creativity," he added.

The Canadian singer revealed that his Triumph bandmates felt the same way. In December 2025, he told The Preston and Steve Show, “I mean, I thought I'd retired, and the other guys in the band, same thing. But the songs have this thing that just keeps pulling you back.”

Emmett admitted that there was a long period of time that he didn’t want to think about reuniting with Triumph.

“How many times did I say ‘never?’” he acknowledged to Guitar Player in December 2025. “I think about the fact that it’s the 50-year anniversary, but for almost 20 years, I didn't even want to talk to these guys. It’s a really interesting thing to be in the middle of.”

Emmett credited Moore for never giving up on “the idea of Triumph as this rock and roll machine that’s gonna be bigger and better than ever.”

“And then there’s these songs,” the Triumph frontman added. “They never die, they never quit. I’m in a state of grace for the fact there’s this music, these songs that just never stop regenerating.”

Triumph’s Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded tour begins April 22 at GFL Memorial Gardens in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, and ends June 6 at Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston, MA.

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In today's world—where everything feels like a full-blown crisis—apathy might sound downright blissful. Yet, a psychologist warns that not caring can be a red flag in intimate relationships. In fact, if your partner suddenly stops caring about certain things, your relationship may be in trouble. So, awareness is key.

"Noticing early signs of trouble in a relationship gives you a chance to fix problems before they grow," statesDr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., an NYC-based neuropsychologist as well as the founder and director of Comprehend the Mind. "Little problems, like feeling unheard or spending less time together, are usually much easier to work through at the beginning."

It's like the old adage advising us not to let molehills turn into mountains. So, it's worth investigating changes in your partner's behavior or feelings—and, frankly, your own as well—when you notice them. It may lead you to a long, deep conversation (or several), changes to your routines or communication styles (like phone-free dinners or using an even tone when delivering constructive criticism) or couples counseling. These steps—which all stem from becoming aware of signs that your partner's "not caring" anymore—can do more than just salvage your relationship. They can strengthen your bond.

"When you address things early, it prevents hurt feelings from piling up and turning into resentment," she explains. "It also gives both people a chance to adjust their behavior and show they care about making the relationship better. Taking action sooner rather than later can protect the connection and keep the relationship from drifting apart."

Dr. Hafeez wants to help you boost your awareness so you can take action sooner. So, she warns that if your partner stops caring about these six things, your relationship could be in trouble.

Related: It Takes Time and Effort—Here’s How to Rebuild Trust in a Relationship in 8 Steps

Malte Mueller/Getty Images

If Your Partner Stops Caring About These 6 Things, Your Relationship Might Be in Trouble1. Communicating, even about the little things

Communication is often rightfully billed as a core pillar of a strong relationship. Healthy communication isn't only about conflict resolution (we'll get there). Losing regular small talk in your relationship is a big deal.

"When they stop sharing details about their day [or] calling you... this is a sign to be concerned," Dr. Hafeez shares. "Healthy relationships rely on open, honest dialogue."

2. Physical affection

Physical affection isn't transactional in intimate relationships. If your partner seems to stop caring about it, it's a sign your relationship may be in trouble.

"A sudden change in touching you, giving you hugs and kisses or cuddling with you often means they are emotionally withdrawing from the relationship," Dr. Hafeez shares.

Related: 9 Things Healthy Couples Do Differently During Disagreements, Therapists Say

3. Talking about future plans that include you

Dr. Hafeez doesn't mean to sound alarmist, but this one is in "big yikes" territory.

"If they stop talking about trips, long-term goals or future dreams together, it may mean they no longer see the relationship as lasting," she warns. "Shared vision reflects commitment."

4. Celebrating important moments

As partners, you're each other's cheerleaders. However, it can feel like you have a gaping hole in your fan club when your relationship is on the rocks.

"Forgetting birthdays, anniversaries or personal milestones shows they’re disengaged from your life," Dr. Hafeez notes.

5. How their words affect you

The saying about sticks, stones, bones and words? It was wrong. Words can hurt. Your relationship may be in trouble if your partner seems to have forgotten this reality.

"If they stop noticing how their tone, jokes or comments impact you, it can feel hurtful," Dr. Hafeez says. "Someone who cares about you usually wants to protect your feelings, not dismiss them."

6. Conflict resolution 

Conflict isn't it fun, but it can be productive. Not addressing it is unproductive and can make small problems worse. In strained relationships, one partner may no longer care about the snowball effect of avoiding conflict resolution.

"If they consistently refuse to address recurring problems or brush off issues, it shows they aren’t invested in making the relationship work," Dr. Hafeez shares.

Related: Experts Say There Are 4 Major Stages to Every Relationship: Which One Are You In?

How To Get Back on the Same Page in Your Relationship1. Focus on solving the problem instead of trying to win the argument

Dr. Hafeez suggests viewing conflict as "us vs. the problem," rather than "me vs. you."

"Relationships work best when both partners see themselves on the same team," she states. "During disagreements, pause and literally ask, 'What solution would feel fair to both of us?' Be willing to compromise." 

2. Take responsibility for your part

Rarely is one partner right and the other wrong, so accountability is huge.

"Owning your piece lowers defensiveness and opens the door to real change," Dr. Hafeez says. "That kind of accountability makes it safer for your partner to do the same. Even when one issue feels mostly like your partner’s fault, relationships are patterns built by two people." 

3. Seek external support

Dr. Hafeez shares thatacting on this tip can make a "huge difference."

"Sometimes, problems are too big to handle alone, and professional guidance can provide tools for resolving conflicts in healthy ways," she says. "Consider looking into couples counseling. If that’s not for you, try talking to a trusted friend who can offer an unbiased perspective." 

Up Next:

Related: What Is a Twin Flame? Plus, Signs You've Met Your Ultimate Match

Source:

• Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., is an NYC-based neuropsychologist, as well as the founder and director of Comprehend the Mind.

Over the past year, little cruise line items have inched up—most notably daily gratuities—while onboard menus of optional extras keep expanding—and cruise fans have been paying attention. Faster Wi-Fi tiers, specialty dining, spa treatments, curated shore excursions … it’s never been easier to personalize a sailing, but it can also be easier to watch the onboard account climb.

That’s why the latest move from Carnival Cruise Line has fans doing a little happy dance at booking.

Related: Carnival Just Raised Onboard Charges and the Reaction Has Been Surprisingly...Calm

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For a limited booking window through February 16, 2026, Carnival is bringing back bundled package deals—an idea that first gained serious traction around Labor Day and Black Friday last year, when similar build-your-own value offers proved hugely popular. This time, they’re clearly branded and easy to spot: “Upgrade Your Fun” and “Sip & Surf.”

Both are designed to wrap some of the most commonly purchased extras into one decision at booking.

Related: Carnival Just Rolled Out the New Cheers! Zero Proof Drink Package

“Sip & Surf” includes the line’s CHEERS! Beverage Package, premium Wi-Fi and two-for-one cruise deposits. On their own, those perks aren’t minor add-ons. CHEERS! typically runs around $60 to $70 per person, per day if purchased in advance. Premium Wi-Fi can cost roughly $18 to $23 per day, per device. Over a five-day sailing, that can mean several hundred dollars per guest. Right now, this bundle is added automatically to your booking across over 226 cruise options on Carnival.com February 16.

“Upgrade Your Fun” offers up to $500 in onboard credit plus 25% off select pre-purchased experiences such as shore excursions, premium Wi-Fi, the CHEERS! program and spa treatments (including embarkation and port days). With excursions often starting around $50 and climbing well past $150, and spa services frequently topping $100, that credit may cover almost all of the costs—and with all those savings, this may be your moment to splurge on a massage.

The sale applies to select 3- to 5-day cruises from April 15 through the end of 2026, and select 6- to 8-day sailings beginning May 15.

At the same time, Carnival’s beverage lineup continues to widen. The CHEERS! Zero Proof package, introduced in September, has now been rolled out across the booking calendar year-round, giving alcohol-free cruisers a permanent option rather than a limited test.

The message is a heartening one for repeat cruisers looking to maximize savings. Even as certain costs rise, Carnival is looking for visible ways to bundle value—meeting loyal guests where they are and giving them more control over how they plan and pay for their fun.

Related: 10 Best Caribbean 'Micro-Cruises' for 2026: Quick Weekend Tropical Escapes

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Looking for your new favorite pair of boots? We, and Macy's, have you covered. As shoe fanatics, we're focused on finding the best Macy's footwear deals, like these Clarks Emily 2 Belle Boots for a whopping 50% off. Originally $140, they're now reduced to just $70.

Available in sizes 5 to 12, including half sizes, you can shop these "well-made" ankle booties in a narrow, medium, or wide width. They consist of a leather upper, textile lining, and manmade outsole that offers maximum comfort and cushion for the arch of your foot. There's a side zipper closure for ease of use — an especially helpful feature for those who are constantly on the move. 

Clarks Emily 2 Belle Boots, $70 (were $140) at Macy's

The rounded toe and 2.125-inch heel makes for the perfect height to upgrade your look from casual to elegant without being uncomfortable. "They are extremely comfortable, stylish, and are seriously kind to your feet, even at the end of a long day," one shopper said. "The round toe is particularly roomy, and allows your toes to breathe easily." The silver hardware placed on the side of the shoe adds a bit of understated bling to the entire look.

Related: Macy’s Is Selling 'Beautiful' and 'Classy' $18 Hoop Earrings That Exude Quiet Luxury

Whether you're headed to grab dinner with friends or on your way to work, customers pair the "expensive looking" shoes with cropped pants, skirts, classic trousers, and virtually any other pants that you usually pair slightly heeled shoes with.

Although they're the kind of shoe that you can wear during any season, this limited-time deal won't last forever. Shop these $70 Clarks boots before they're gone! 

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.

Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Saturday, February 14, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Saturday, February 14, 2026 / The New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on February 14, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Don't keep playing!
• Green: Smash that basketball.
• Blue: Hoopster winners.
• Purple: Goldy Gopher is another one.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: SIGNAL FOR PLAY TO STOP
• Green: DUNKS
• Blue: NBA 3-POINT CONTEST WINNERS
• Purple: COLLEGE MASCOTS

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #509 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• SIGNAL FOR PLAY TO STOP: BUZZER, HORN, SIREN, WHISTLE
• DUNKS: 360, BETWEEN-THE-LEGS, REVERSE, WINDMILL
• NBA 3-POINT CONTEST WINNERS: HERRO, HIELD, LOVE, PIERCE
• COLLEGE MASCOTS: BIG AL, BRUTUS, OTTO, RAMESES

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: Le Creuset Just Dropped a Stunning New Colorway, and It's Perfect for Spring

The Pima County Sheriff's Department just shut down a viral claim in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance.

Reports began circulating late Friday evening that the PCSD and SWAT raided a home belonging to a litigator at the Arizona Attorney General's Office. The claim began after an influencer on the ground released an address and the name of an apparent property owner associated with the home.

"Reporting that current law enforcement activity is surrounding a home belonging to a former county attorney is NOT accurate," the department's statement read.

The news comes after reports surfaced that two people were detained in connection with Guthrie's disappearance after SWAT raided a house approximately two miles from her home.

"There is an active situation happening right now involving the Pima County swat team connected to the Nancy Guthrie investigation. I’m here but not revealing location to not interfere with investigation," News Nation's Brian Entin shared via X on Friday, February 13.

He later added, "Appears two individuals were taken out of the house where swat operation is happening. I’m told a nearby traffic stop is also connected."

According to Entin, a man and a woman were taken out of the home.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos reportedly told local news outlet KOLD that their team was "actively working a lead."

PCSD did not share further details on the SWAT raid.

"Law enforcement activity is underway at a residence near E Orange Grove Rd & N First Ave related to the Guthrie case. Because this is a joint investigation, at the request of the FBI - no additional information is currently available," the department tweeted early Saturday morning.

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #713 on Saturday, February 14.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "XOXOXO"

A hint for today's Strands game: Like little Hershey's morsels.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are seven theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• SN
• CU
• EM
• SM
• PE
• SM
• HU (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly vertical.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for February 14

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Saturday, February 14, 2026, is HUGSANDKISSES.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Saturday, February 14?

• SNUGGLE
• CUDDLE
• EMBRACE
• SMOOCH
• PECK
• SMACK
• SPANGRAM: HUGSANDKISSES

Related: Buffalo Wild Wings Just Teamed Up With This Grammy-Winning Artist to Drop an Album, and Fans 'Can't Handle How Amazing' It Is

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If there's one person we'd trust to design our kitchen, it's Martha Stewart. The television personality has been the face of home decor and DIY for years, which means we're adding all of her top home items from Wayfair to our online carts. We've already shopped for Stewart's gorgeous duvet cover set and beautiful floral rug, so, now, we're officially purchasing the next highly sought-after find. 

The Martha Stewart Miles Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat is up to 60% off right now, and it's selling out quickly. The mat was originally $55, but has been reduced to as low as $22 blue hue. You can additionally shop the item in beige, green, light brown, and light gray, with the maximum sale price being $24. The mat is 39 inches long and 19.6 inches wide, making it the perfect fit right in front of your sink, oven, or wherever you see fit. 

Martha Stewart Miles Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat, From $22 (was $55) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

The 100% polyester mat features a top layer that's water-, stain-, and oil-resistant. It's also mold- and mildew-resistant. The most exciting attribute of the mat is that the middle layer is made of air-infused memory foam, which provides comfort for your feet, legs, and back. Therefore, you can stand for long hours while washing dishes without your body becoming extremely fatigued. 

There's a skid-resistent backing that ensures it's secure to walk and step on. Shoppers said that the "beautiful" kitchen mat not only "looks great," but also "feels fantastic" and is "very supportive." Other reviewers said that it's "very cushy and comfy," "sturdy," and confirmed that it "decreases back fatigue." 

Related: Wayfair Has a Dreamy $28 3-Piece Chenille Comforter Set That Exudes Cottagecore Charm

"I can stand on it for half an hour making recipes and my back, hips, and feet do not hurt," one customer said, adding that it's "a god sent." Plus, it delivered fairly quickly and arrived in pristine condition. Four colors are already sold out though, so you'll want to hop on this Wayfair deal sooner rather than later. 

Shop More Deals

• Wade Logan Besan Boucle Upholstered Headboard Bed Frame, $267 (was $1,199) at Wayfair
• Wade Logan Allyannah 2-Drawer Nightstand, $61 (was $252) at Wayfair
• Ebern Designs Ojaswi 8-drawer Dresser, $74 (was $162) at Wayfair

Martha Stewart knows best. Shop this anti-fatigue kitchen mat for as low as $22 at Wayfair! 

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.

There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #979 on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections puzzle for Saturday, February 14, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Saturday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Saturday, February 14

1. Like the stock market.
2. You might find one on a log.
3. Actor famous for saying "Life is like a box of chocolates."
4. Tingly fresh.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Saturday, February 14:

1. UPTICK: HIKE, JUMP, RISE, SPIKE
2.PROTUBERANCE: BUMP, HUMP, LUMP, MOUND
3. TOM HANKS ROLES: GUMP, PHILLIPS, SULLY, WOODY
4. WORDS BEFOR "MINT": BREATH, JUNIOR, PEPPER, SPEAR

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: I Tried Heart-Shaped Pizzas From Pizza Hut and Papa John's—This Is the One I've Fallen Madly in Love With

Nicole Kidman may be spending Valentine’s Day 2026 as a single woman for the first time in nearly two decades, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t embracing her new normal. 

The Oscar-winning actress, who was previously married to country star Keith Urban, revealed she was soaking in some alone time one day ahead of the lovers' holiday, sharing a post on Instagram. 

On Friday, Feb. 13, Kidman revealed she was opting to observe Galentine’s Day, an unofficial holiday originating from NBC’s Parks and Recreation that celebrates friendship over romance. 

View this post on Instagram

“Happy Galentines 🩷,” Kidman simply captioned her post, including a heart-shaped emoji in her message. Alongside those words, the Big Little Lies star shared an image of herself perched up on her bed with her eyes closed and wearing a bright red lip shade. 

The image found Kidman wearing her hair down while dressed in an oversized pinstriped sleep shirt. As she relaxed beneath a comforter, leaving her legs bare, her expression suggested she was feeling refreshed in this new season of singlehood, while sunlight streaming through the window softly illuminated her face.  

Nicole Kidman Has Been Staying Busy Post-Divorce

Kidman’s Instagram selfie comes as she’s been keeping busy with her career, life, and kids. Most recently, she cheered on her daughter, Sunday Rose, as the teenager walked the runway for a Calvin Klein fashion show, according to InStyle. Before that, she documented a personal adventure on social media when she visited her 7th continent, Antarctica. 

“My 7th Continent! Touched down in Antarctica. Living the dream – One continent at a time,” she captioned on Instagram, later writing in another post. "Thank you, @SilverSea, for taking me to my 7th continent! Once in a lifetime adventure with family and friends.”

View this post on Instagram

Kidman filed for divorce from Urban in September 2025, according to People. The former couple, who have been together for 19 years, share two daughters. They are Faith Margaret, 15, and Rose, 17. (Kidman is also a mother to daughter Bella and sonConnor with ex-husband Tom Cruise). According to documents, Kidman listed her and Urban's date of separation as the same date as her filing. 

Related: Keith Urban Delivers First Post-Divorce Interview From Nicole Kidman: ‘I’m in a Different Part of the Journey’

The day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1701 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

Today's Wordle answer can relate to: what flowers do in the springtime.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1701 on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Saturday, February 14, 2026, isBLOOM.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Sam's Club's Elegant $25 Tumbler Set Looks Eerily Similar to a Viral Style from Stanley 1913 Nearly 2x the Price

Jessica Alba has officially closed the chapter on her marriage to Cash Warren.

A judge signed off on the couple's divorce judgment on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, exactly one year after the Honest Company founder originally filed to end their 16-year union. While the split was amicable, the final settlement includes a significant seven-figure payout to balance the books.

The Multi-Million Dollar Payout

According to legal documents obtained by TMZ, neither Alba nor Warren will pay spousal support to the other. Instead, the couple has agreed to a lump-sum equalization payment to settle their assets.

Alba, 44, will pay Warren, 47, a total of $3 million to balance the division of their property. The judgment stipulates that the payment will be made in two installments: the first $1.5 million is due immediately, with the second $1.5 million to be paid in exactly one year.

Related: Jessica Alba Takes Big Step in Relationship With New Boyfriend Amid Her Divorce

Custody of the Kids

The pair will share joint legal and physical custody of their three children: Honor, 17, Haven, 14, and Hayes, 7.

This arrangement aligns with their initial filing in February 2025, where both parties requested joint custody. Alba and Warren have prioritized co-parenting since their separation in early 2025.

A New Start

The judgment also grants Alba’s request to restore her legal name, dropping "Warren" to become Jessica Marie Alba once again.

The actress has already moved on romantically. She has been dating Top Gun: Maverick actor Danny Ramirez, 33, since late 2025. The couple was spotted celebrating New Year’s Eve together just a few months ago.

Warren has also been linked to others since the separation, including model Hana Sun Doerr and actress Seanna Pereira.

Alba and Warren met on the set of Fantastic Four in 2004 and married in a quiet courthouse ceremony in Beverly Hills in May 2008.

Next: Jessica Alba Opens Up About Filming ‘Very Humiliating’ Scene in ‘Fantastic Four’

Eric Forrest, vocalist and bassist of the 2000s band E-Force and former member of Canadian heavy metal group Voivod, is currently facing a fight of a different kind.

Celebrated for his unique vocal strength and bass expertise, Forrest is considered a major influence in Canada’s metal community.

However, the veteran musician has revealed he is dealing with a cancer diagnosis that has left him with a burden of mounting medical expenses.

On his GoFundMe page, he shared a “sad but true” update, opening up about a serious health challenge he had kept private.

“Hello, to all my friends and fans…” he posted on Thursday. “Been keeping this one quiet for many reasons …. anyway, sad but true …… , but you know what ? I'm gonna beat this parasite ! 100%. Thanks for your love and support. Sante E”

Former VOIVOD memberEric Forrest performing on stage.

Naki/Redferns

Forrest went on to reveal additional details, confirming that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2024.

According to him, he chose not to share much about his health publicly in the past years to protect his privacy, avoid worry and manage personal emotions.

E-Force Vocalist and Ex-Voivod Member Eric Forrest Sets Up GoFundMe Page pic.twitter.com/zLdhGmasM9

— Polly (@pollygarcia0915) February 14, 2026

However, due to the series of treatments and other medical expenses, Forrest is now asking for help from the community to cover costs and manage his medical condition.

"I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2024 - stage 3/psa 23/Gleason 7 (3+4),” he shared. He added, “Currently seeking financial aid to help with my metabolic treatment medicine therapy expenses. I've kept this pretty much private for many reasons. After many delays/RDVs/Scans/IRMs ... administration procedures... I have been on a daily routine to advance my situation (some days better than others). However, maintaining a disciplined, scheduled format cycle. Plus, some love and support from family and close friends. To eliminate this problem, please help me generate support to continue my fight to kill this parasite! 100%."

With a goal of raising €25,000 or around 30,000 USD, the ex-Voivod vocalist has currently raised €2,495 or an estimated 3,000 USD.

In spite of his health condition, the 56-year-old musician mentioned in his interview with Chile's iRock, that he is currently working on a new album set to launch in the spring this year.

With his band E-Force, the frontman is set to release Voivod Revisited, an upcoming album that contains re-recordings of material from his former band’s eighth and ninth studio albums, Negatron and Phobos.

Related: ‘The Real Housewives’ Star, 55, Sparks Concern After Bacterial Infection — 'That Looks Bad'

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A solar wind chime is a stylish — and musical — way to add some ambient lighting to your outdoor space. They not only help illuminate your backyard or patios, but they also add a pretty decorative touch. Right now, Walmart is offering a can't-miss deal on one of its bestselling options, the Qishi Solar Hummingbird Wind Chime. 

Originally $20, the beautiful LED wind chime is now on sale for just $12. It comes in eight different shapes and themes. In addition to the hummingbird option (our personal favorite!) there are several other styles — including angels, butterflies, and crystal balls — all discounted to $12.  

Qishi Solar Hummingbird Wind Chime, From $12 (was $20) at Walmart

These "lovely" wind chimes provide a magical glow that lights up your outdoor space, shining a variety of colorful hues at night. Powered by solar energy, they charge up during the day and automatically turn on once it gets dark. You can hang them anywhere you want to create a whimsical atmosphere, from gardens and porches to windows and doors. They're rainproof, moisture-proof, and easy to hang, making them a cinch to move around indoors or outdoors.

In addition to providing some ambiance for your space, these light-up wind chimes also make great gifts for all types of occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. "These wind chimes are so cute," one shopper wrote. "I had to order myself one after I received the one I bought for my mother. They look awesome lit up at night."

Reviewers were impressed by how bright the solar lights are both day and night One shopper said they're "so colorful and fun to watch," while another noted the wind chime "lights up beautifully in my garden."

Related: Walmart Is Selling a 'Cute' and 'Comfortable' Cloud Chair for Over $500 Off

Many also took note of the wind chime's durability. One reviewer shared that they'd held up wonderfully after over a year of use. "We have high winds, and they survive," the reviewer commented. The hummingbirds are truly beautiful when lit up at night." 

Add a pop of color to your outdoor space, and snag this colorful solar light wind chime while it's still $12 at Walmart. The bestseller may not last long at such a great price!

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.

Universal Destinations & Experiences is finally letting us peek behind the curtain.

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition makes its world premiere on Feb. 14, 2026, at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Organizers are calling the 18,000-square-foot experience the "first exhibit of its kind" to pull authentic costumes and artifacts directly from the vault while breaking down the actual engineering used to build the company's most massive attractions.

The limited-time engagement runs through Sept. 7, 2026, before launching a North American tour.

Raiding the Universal Vault

The exhibition spans eight distinct galleries and features more than 100 original artifacts, costumes, and props that have never been displayed this way before.

The collection includes authentic items from the studio's heaviest hitters, including:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Jurassic World
• Jaws
• Illumination’s Minions, The Secret Life of Pets, and Sing
• DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon
• Universal Monsters
• Super Nintendo World

Related: Disney World Officially Announces Water Parks’ Opening Date for 2026 Season

The Science Behind the Screams

This isn't a look but don't touch situation. The galleries are designed to be hands-on, featuring 20 interactive areas that simulate the complex design process behind the parks.

Visitors start with a "tram experience" that uses "archival footage" to set the history. Once inside, you can program animated figures, "experiment with projection mapping" technology, "call a live show, and more."

The exhibit also features immersive photo ops that put you inside the movies, including:

• A seat in a ride vehicle

• A meeting with a "walk-around" character
• A pose with a Super Mario Question Block

• A "classic Jawsstoryboard" backdrop

Ticket to Ride

The exhibition is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended evening hours available Thursday through Saturday.

Daytime Tickets (Includes General Museum Admission):

• Adults: $47
• Teens (13–17): $43
• Children (3–12): $41

Evening Tickets (Exhibit Only):

• All Ages: $25

Tickets are timed and dated. The Franklin Institute strongly recommends purchasing in advance via their website.

Next: Universal Studios Quietly Retires Beloved Live Experience After More Than 30 Years

If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Saturday, February 14, 2026, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Saturday, February 14, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Org. with a Slam Dunk Contest — HINT: Starts with the letter "N"

4 Across: Menacing creature in "The Lord of the Rings" — HINT: Ends with the letter "C"

7 Across: Spherical shape — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

8 Across: Greek "r' — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

9 Across: Symbol on Hawaii's license plate — HINT: Ends with the letter "W"

11 Across: Magazine with show listings — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

12 Across: Showed support to, as a text message — HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

13 Across: Move up the rankings — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

14 Across: Kind of lighting whose first letter stands for "light" — HINT: Starts with the letter "L"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: The Australian continent moves subtly this direction each year (about 3 inches) — HINT: Ends with the letter "H"

2 Down: More courageous — HINT: Starts with the letter "B"

3 Down: Virginia governor Spanberger — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

4 Down: Went around the world? — HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

5 Down: Colossus of ____, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

6 Down: Intimidated — HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

10 Down: Hospital worker — HINT: Starts with the letter "N"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Saturday, February 14, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Org. with a Slam Dunk Contest — NBA

4 Across: Menacing creature in "The Lord of the Rings" — ORC

7 Across: Spherical shape — ORB

8 Across: Greek "r' — RHO

9 Across: Symbol on Hawaii's license plate — RAINBOW

11 Across: Magazine with show listings — TVGUIDE

12 Across: Showed support to, as a text message — HEARTED

13 Across: Move up the rankings — RISES

14 Across: Kind of lighting whose first letter stands for "light" — LED

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: The Australian continent moves subtly this direction each year (about 3 inches) — NORTH

2 Down: More courageous — BRAVER

3 Down: Virginia governor Spanberger — ABIGAIL

4 Down: Went around the world? — ORBITED

5 Down: Colossus of ____, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — RHODES

6 Down: Intimidated — COWED

10 Down: Hospital worker — NURSE

Related: Here Are All the Places to Find Heart-Shaped Pizza for an Extra Cheesy Valentine's Day

A 1971 classic has been named the greatest singer-songwriter album of all time, more than five decades after it first reshaped popular music.

Joni Mitchell’sBlue has taken the top spot on a newly updated ranking celebrating the most essential singer-songwriter records ever released. The list, published by BBC Music Magazine in February 2026, focused on albums defined by deeply personal songwriting, emotional honesty, and lasting cultural influence.

RELATED: Reclusive Singer, 81, Nearly Unrecognizable in Rare Public Outing

Released in June 1971, Blue marked a turning point not only in Mitchell’s career but in popular music as a whole. Stripped-down and emotionally unguarded, the album showcased her distinctive open-tuned guitar work and piano arrangements while foregrounding lyrics that explored heartbreak, independence, vulnerability, and self-discovery.

Songs like “A Case of You,” “River,” and “All I Want” helped redefine what confessional songwriting could sound like, influencing generations of artists across folk, rock, pop, and beyond. Over the years, Blue has frequently appeared near the top of “greatest albums” lists, but its No. 1 placement here underscores its enduring reputation as the gold standard for singer-songwriter records.

RELATED: Neil Young & Jackson Browne Join Major Hall of Fame Class for 2025

The ranking also highlighted several other landmark albums from the same creative era, including Carole King’sTapestry, Neil Young’sAfter the Gold Rush, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’sDéjà Vu, and Jackson Browne’sLate for the Sky—all records that helped shape the introspective, California-centered singer-songwriter movement of the early 1970s.

More than 50 years after its release, Blue continues to resonate with listeners for its emotional clarity and fearless honesty, cementing its status not just as a classic of its time, but as the definitive singer-songwriter album of all time.

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Finding a pair of earrings that is simultaneously elegant and versatile can be a tall order. If you're looking for something that you can wear for just about any occasion, you'll find a great fit in the Anne Klein Crystal Teardrop Earrings. With their classic silhouette and beautiful shine, they add a sophisticated touch to any look.

Available in both silver-tone and gold-tone mixed metal, these drops feature a brilliant blend of crystals and shimmering pave detailing. Despite their extravagant design, they're an exceptional deal at Macy's right now. While they retail for $26, they're currently just $20 during the brand's Presidents Day sale.

Anne Klein Crystal Teardrop Earrings, $20 (were $26) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

The pave accents lend them a special touch. Because they extend up the lever-back closure, they lend the earrings full on shimmer from every angle. Unlike some other types of statement earrings, these are designed with your comfort in mind. They have a relatively petite profile, coming in at just over half an inch.

They're also incredibly versatile. Whether you're styling them for the holidays with a festive dress or wearing them with a tailored blazer and jeans, you'll instantly elevate any look just a little bit more with their bright finish. That's a major plus point for gifts, too. They're suitable for virtually any occasion.

Related: Macy’s $23 'Plush' Lucky Brand Throw Blanket Has Major Cottagecore Vibes

"The design is elegant and timeless, with just the right amount of sparkle to catch the light beautifully," one shopper shared. "They're lightweight, comfortable to wear, and look far more expensive than they are." 

Another person described them as "beautiful and classic," noting that it's easy to "dress them up or wear them with a casual chic look."

Effortlessly luxe, these Anne Klein Crystal Teardrop Earrings make a mesmerizing addition to any jewelry box. They're a great value, too — but this deal is only good for a limited time. Don't miss the chance to snag a pair or two for 20% off while they're still in stock at Macy's.

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.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you've been sleeping on Dollar Tree, it's time for you to wake up. The retailer has so many incredible home goods at amazingly low prices. From budget-friendly cleaning supplies to cute but inexpensive home decor to high-quality but affordable dinnerware, Dollar Tree has you covered. And if you're needing a new door mat for your front or side door for these cold and wet winter months, Dollar Tree has your back there, too.

Dollar Tree's Criss Cross Pattern Door Mats retail for just $5 each. Available in either grey or black, these sturdy door mats will work well with any home's interior design style. The criss cross pattern adds some welcomed texture and personality to the neutral piece.

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Criss Cross Pattern Door Mat, $5 at Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree

In addition to being stylish, these door mats are also incredibly functional in that they prevent dirt, mud, debris and more from tracking into your house after coming indoors from outside. This is especially helpful during the winter. Simply wipe off the bottoms of your shoes on the surface of this door mat before going inside and keep your home way cleaner. Plus, the door mat's rubber backing prevent it from slipping and sliding, ensuring stability.

Related: Dollar Tree's 'Sturdy' Stackable Drawers Have Shoppers Running Back to Buy More

Overall, Dollar Tree customers love these $5 door mats, giving them an average rating of five stars on DollarTree.com. Reviewers rate the door mats highly for their value and quality on Dollar Tree's website.

"This is a perfect size and weight for front door! I didn’t want a mat that was an eyesore. This one is great! Sleek and sturdy! Made well!" wrote one happy Dollar Tree customer in a five-star review on DollarTree.com.

"I needed a rug at my back door that wouldn’t slide whenever it was stepped on. I ran across these on one of my DT trips. I picked one up. What a deal! For $5, I got this really sturdy rug that simply will not budge from where it’s put. It looks nice, too. It’s been stationed at the back door for about six months and it’s doing a fantastic job," said another fan in a five-star review on Dollar Tree's website.

You can pick up these door mats in select Dollar Tree stores for $5 or buy in bulk online on DollarTree.com. If purchasing from Dollar Tree's website, there is a six-quantity minimum, making the total cost $30.

Related: Dollar Tree's 'Lovely' Glass Jars Look Straight Out of a Vintage Store