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On the Beach, for Better and for Worse: ‘Send Help’ Movie Review

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A woman stands holding a large stick in the firelight.
Rachel McAdams as Linda Liddle in 20th Century Studios' SEND HELP. Photo by Brook Rushton. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
A graphic for the Send Help movie featuring a screengrab of the two actors and other information.

Whenever Sam Raimi gets some time off from franchise filmmaking, he returns to his favorite pastimes: ambiguous characters, survival situations and (forewarning) indulgent grossness.

An Honest Review of Sam Raimi’s Send Help

For the past few decades, he hasn’t had much opportunity for passion projects. In the 2000s, he helmed the gargantuan Spider-Man trilogy, a blockbuster demonstration of the narrative power and global appeal of superhero tales. In 2013, he tried to get Disney into the Oz business, taking the reins on the visually inventive but forgettable Oz the Great and Powerful. (Perhaps the Mouse should’ve gone for the Wicked rights.) Later that decade, he returned to the comic-book game; after some delays, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness proved a mixed success.

In the past quarter-century, then, he’s had just two opportunities to return to his roots. The first is 2009’s Drag Me to Hell, a campy yet occasionally troubling tale about a mild-mannered woman driven to extremes to survive. Then there’s this year’s Send Help, a campy yet occasionally troubling tale about a mild-mannered woman driven to extremes to survive.

He likes what he likes. And it’s usually pretty entertaining.

Making Movies on the Workplace

He also, at least in Drag Me to Hell and Send Help, enjoys a bit of corporate commentary — or at least the appearance of it. The latter film stars Rachel McAdams as Linda Liddle, a frumpy middle-management type who toils in an undefined corporations strategy and planning department. She’s convinced her years of dogged service will land her a promotion and the attention of the dashing young CEO, Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien). Unfortunately, he’s got a fraternity buddy to promote — and he’s put off by Liddle’s unrefined exterior. (Casting the undeniably gorgeous Rachel McAdams as a Plain Jane stretches credulity, despite McAdams’ considerable acting chops.)

Preston invites Liddle to join a planned business trip to Bangkok, partially out of pity and partially to provide the boys’ club with a carry-on subject of ridicule. The plane crashes into the ocean in a harrowing sequence; only Liddle and Preston survive, finding themselves marooned on a desert island. Fortunately, Liddle is prepared; a devotee of the reality series Survivor, she’s been training for decades for just such a scenario. Whether Preston will accept that his former scapegoat is now his only chance at survival remains at question — all the way through the final reel.

Well… Maybe Don’t Send Help Too Quickly…

The marketing for Send Help has been primarily as a corporate satire, selling itself as an inversion of intraoffice power dynamics. To Raimi — and co-screenwriters Mark Swift and Damian Shannon, best known for the slasher-fight curiosity Freddy vs. Jason — this is just an opportunity for twists and shocks in an island paradise. (Drag Me to Hell had a similar relationship with current affairs, using the housing crisis as the backdrop to a tale of demonic curses.) The end product is far from cohesive and decidedly indulgent, but damn good fun — provided, of course, you’re comfortable with all manner of on-screen viscera and violence.

If it’s ever too much, just look at the sandy beaches in the background.

Others Movies Coming Out at the End of January 2026

Elsewhere at the multiplex, Jason Statham has typical business to deal with in Shelter, an actioner about — what else — an assassin on the run. This one has a sturdy supporting cast, though, including the unimpeachable Bill Nighy and rising star Naomi Ackie (who had a phenomenal 2025 thanks to Mickey 17 and Sorry, Baby). Reviews haven’t dropped yet, but there’s slightly more buzz around this one than the typical January beat-em-up … A pair of curiosities are also theater-bound this weekend.

Iron Lung, a dark scifi/horror fable, is the feature debut of YouTube star Mark “Markiplier” Fischbach. He financed — and directed, wrote and edited — the picture himself, so it’s hard to know what to expect. (Given the size of his audience, though, it will hardly matter.)

Meanwhile, A24 releases the mockumentary, The Moment, starring Charlie XCX in a spoof of her own world tour…

On the small screen, build anticipation for the Milan Olympics with a viewing of the new doc Miracle: The Boys of ’80, an account of the underdog American hockey team that famously toppled the USSR’s squad at the Lake Placid games. The film, which features newly unearthed footage, should get even hockey novices to consider watching when the games kick off next weekend.

Story by Sean Collier
Photo Courtesy of 20th Century Studios’ Send Help

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The Food Trends Defining 2026: Comfort Cooking, New Proteins, GLP-1 Diets, and Smarter Grocery Spending

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An uncooked chicken sits on a cutting board.

In 2026, the way we eat feels both inventive and deeply familiar. For instance, comfort food is no longer an indulgence but rather a strategy. These recipes are built to soothe, nourish, and stretch the grocery budget in an era of grocery inflation. At the same time, high-quality proteins are moving from novelty to necessity, shaped by climate awareness and shifting dietary needs as processed foods meet their match. GLP-1 medications are quietly influencing not only the social sphere but the cooking world with extra virgin olive oil possibly becoming a solution.

Through it all though is a renewed sense for simple, high-quality ingredients that center around flavor, health, and tradition. Together, these shifts reveal that 2026 food trends are defined less by restriction or excess this year, and more so by resilience, intention, and pleasure in eating.

Food trends are not just about what’s new and hot. They’re actually a reflection of how we want to live right now. This year’s trends reflect a collective craving for food that feels intentional whether that’s for comfort food, flavors that travel without excess, and techniques that honor tradition while embracing innovation. Climate-aware sourcing as well as playful nostalgia and globally inspired comfort showcases our curiosity in 2026 and zest to better out world one step at a time. Engaging with these trends (no matter if you cook, host, shop or dine) is a way to stay up-to-date with the current state of our world while also lending a helping hand to your neighbors and locals alike. We invite you to savor those moments when food feels both expressive and deeply human.

Comfort Food

Flat-lay image of chicken and dumplings in small bowls on a weathered table.

Comfort food is called that for a reason. Whether it’s a warming bowl of stew, a juicy burger, or a casserole in a hot pan, we crave comfort food when times are hard and stress is heavy. In a year like 2026, comfort foods are a must when tensions rise across the globe and your own personal battles take hold. We’ll see a rise in recipes that bring nostalgia and remind us of better times like our childhood.

Beat Grocery Inflation with Budget-Friendly Recipes

A chicken fajita skillet with slices chicken, limes, and peppers. Then there are small bowls of pico, sour cream, and onions.

One of the scariest parts of entering a New Year is not knowing what is going to happen to the prices of everyday groceries. Will milk end up a nearly five dollars a gallon again? Will eggs reach into the double digits? Well, what we do know is that chicken, beans, canned fish, and pasta are all staying at a low cost, and if they see an increase, it will be far lower than other foods. This means we’re loading up on recipes that utilize these ingredients in a variety of ways to infuse different cultural flavors into your dinner.

Feeding a Family in the Shifting Economy

A woman grocery shops in a store with a basket on her arm.

Families are likely to feel the biggest impact of the shifting economy of 2026. Whenever you’re feeding more than just yourself and your partner, it’s difficult to come up with larger portions at an accessible price, while maintaining nutrition for young minds and bodies. In order to save more than a dime in 2026, we recommend taking tips from a real mom who spends each day feeding three wonderful children and a hungry hubby. As author Katrina Tomacchio says, “It’s [saving money] about identifying the habits that quietly cost families the most and learning how to replace them with smarter strategies.”

High Quality Protein and Analog Dining

A chunk of marbled meat on a dark marble table with coarse salt all over the table.

You’re used to eating ground beef, chicken, and fish but did you know there are high-quality protein options that are better for you? Local beef, tinned fish, duck, pork, and quail are just a few of the selections that are shining in 2026. Chef Maxine Sharf points out, “I think there’s been a real shift toward people caring more about the quality and sourcing of their food, especially animal proteins… I’ve definitely seen more interest in high-quality beef recipes.” Cooking these meats at home is also a great way to take advantage of the analog age. In a world of chaos, analog media and ways of living help us to slow down and savor what we have. It’s hands-on, it’s tactile, and it’s essential to 2026.

Dietary Health

Mottahedeh's Tobacco Leaf Dinnerware: Prawn and Noodle Lettuce Wrap Dish

2026 is about being the best you that you can be. To help you feel just as good, you can follow a diet plan that takes your life and needs into consideration. Maybe you’re looking to cut out some meat, but not all. Or, maybe you’re thinking about giving keto a try but don’t know where to start. Each of these guides is designed to make starting a new diet as simple and as encouraging as possible. Remember as you dive in, there’s no “right” way to diet. It’s most important to listen to your body and supply it with what it needs.

Food as Medicine: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and GLP-1

A bottle of olive oil sits on a table with olives around it.

In the New Year, we’re exploring the concept of Food as Medicine. This applies not only for diets but also for specific ingredients that can support a healthy lifestyle. You’ve probably heard a lot about GLP-1 in recent months and its ability to help you lose weight. Nasser Abufarha, founder and director of Canaan Palestine, explains, “With more GLP-1 in your system you’ll feel full for longer, have improved glucose tolerance, have an increase in cardiovascular health, and your digestive process will slow so your body can absorb more of the vitamins and nutrients you ingest.”  But, before you go running for a shot, give extra virgin olive oil a chance. Olive oil naturally encourages your body to increase GLP-1 secretion without weekly injections. It’s also the reason you see olive oil used in the Mediterranean diet to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Food as Medicine: How to Cook, Sip, and Soothe with Ginger

Ginger chopped up sits on a cutting board with sliced lemon and a cup of tea.

You’ve probably used ginger can soothe a sore throat or a cold but there are plenty of other reasons to use ginger as well. In a year where taking care of ourselves takes priority, ginger can become a best friend for its support with nausea, inflammation, pain, gas, boating, and so much more. As author Kristen Palmer explains, “Its use in Southeast Asia and traditional systems of medicine dates back thousands of years, and modern research is rapidly catching up.” The best part is there are so many ways to use ginger besides just dropping it into a glass of hot water. Take our advice and see how ginger can shake up your life.

Keep working on taking care of yourself in 2026 with our Healthy Dessert Recipes for Your Dietary Needs. After all, everyone deserves a treat every now and then!

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Food as Medicine: How to Cook, Sip, and Soothe with Ginger

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Ginger chopped up sits on a cutting board with sliced lemon and a cup of tea.

When I was young and had a stomach bug, my parents always gave me ginger ale with cinnamon toast. My dad was loyal to Vernors, though I was more of a Canada Dry girl. Only as an adult did I realize he knew exactly what he was doing. 

I assumed ginger ale was just a gentle, clear, fizzy drink for an upset stomach. But there’s more to this remedy: ginger is one of the most widely used culinary plants with medicinal properties that go far beyond easing nausea. Its use in Southeast Asia and traditional systems of medicine dates back thousands of years, and modern research is rapidly catching up. 

How to Use Ginger as Medicine Through Cooking and Sipping

What Ginger Really Is (And Why That Matters) 

First, a quick correction: ginger isn’t a root—it’s a rhizome. 

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a leafy, green, flowering plant that can grow several feet tall. The edible part grows horizontally underground, and while we casually call it “ginger root,” botanically it’s a rhizome, not a true root. Not all ornamental ginger plants produce an edible rhizome, but the culinary variety has become a global staple. 

Ginger thrives in warm, damp climates. Today, most of the fresh ginger sold in U.S. grocery stores comes from India, though it also grows abundantly in the Caribbean, China, Thailand, Peru, and Hawaii. 

Ginger in Traditional Medicine: Warming, Moving, Harmonizing 

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and many other traditional systems like Ayurveda, ginger is prized for its ability to bring harmony to the body. Its flavor is potent, warm, and comforting, and its actions on the body mirror that character. 

Ginger is considered “warming” and “moving.” It helps: 

  • Dry internal “dampness” by improving circulation and fluid dynamics.
  • Stimulate digestion by helping move food through the digestive tract.
  • Support respiratory health by helping move mucus out of the lungs.
  • Enhance circulation by improving blood flow through the vascular system.

That warming sensation you feel with ginger isn’t just flavor—it reflects a real thermogenic effect on circulation and metabolism. 

Ginger and lemon slices sit on a cutting board beside a bowl of lemons and a glass of water with a slice of lemon in it.
Photo Courtesy of Julia Vivcharyk

What Science Says: Ginger as Food-Medicine 

The traditional kitchen wisdom around ginger is increasingly supported by clinical research. Ginger is now one of the most studied culinary botanicals in the world. While my dad may not have read the clinical trials, his ginger ale choice aligned surprisingly well with the research scientists have been doing recently. 

Ginger as a Remedy for Nausea and Motion Sickness 

Ginger ale for a stomachache isn’t just an old family myth. Multiple modern studies show ginger can reduce nausea from a variety of causes: 

  • Pregnancy-related nausea: Systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials have found that doses around 1 gram of ginger per day can significantly reduce nausea in early pregnancy, with few side effects for most people (e.g., Viljoen et al., 2014, Nutrition Journal; Thomson et al., 2014, Obstetrics & Gynecology). 
  • Postoperative and chemotherapy-related nausea: Recent meta-analyses suggest ginger supplementation can modestly reduce nausea severity in some patients undergoing surgery or chemotherapy (Khorasani et al., 2020, Nutrition & Cancer; Apariman et al., 2021, Supportive Care in Cancer). 
  • Motion sickness: Classic experiments (including the famous “swivel chair” style studies) have repeatedly shown ginger can reduce motion-induced nausea and vomiting, at times outperforming or equaling standard medications for mild motion sickness. 

Ginger as a Remedy for Inflammation, Pain, and Joint Health 

Ginger contains a family of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. 

  • Inflammation and pain: A 2020 systematic review in Pain Medicine found that ginger supplementation was associated with modest reductions in pain and disability in people with osteoarthritis, likely through inhibiting inflammatory pathways similar to some over-the-counter pain relievers. 
  • Cellular protection: Ginger’s antioxidants help counter oxidative stress, a process linked to chronic diseases, aging, and environmental damage. Recent laboratory and clinical studies suggest ginger may have supportive roles in metabolic health, cardiovascular protection, and even cancer prevention, though these areas are still being actively researched and are not cures. 

Gingerol, the compound largely responsible for ginger’s spicy kick, can interrupt certain inflammatory processes and inhibit enzymes linked to pain and inflammation. 

Ginger as a Remedy for Gas, Bloating, and Gut Motility 

If pregnancy (or a heavy meal) is leaving you nauseous and gassy, ginger may help there, too. 

  • Digestive motility: Clinical studies have shown that ginger can help food move more efficiently through the stomach, improving gastric emptying and reducing sensations of fullness and bloating (e.g., Wu et al., 2020, Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility). 
  • Gas and cramping: Traditional medicine has long used ginger to ease gas and cramping; emerging research on its effects on gut motility and smooth muscle provides a plausible mechanism. 

In short, the “settling” effect people feel in their stomach after ginger tea or ginger ale is not just placebo. 

A glass of lemonade with basil, ginger, and line sits on a white square on a wood table.
Photo Courtesy of Kim Daniels

Choosing and Using Fresh Ginger in the Kitchen 

To bring ginger’s benefits into daily life, it helps to know how to choose, prep, and cook with it.  

Finding Fresh Ginger 

  • Look in the refrigerated produce section. 
  • The rhizome should be firm and plump, not shriveled 
  • Look for smooth, taut, light-brown skin. 
  • The ginger should feel heavy and plump.  

Prepping Fresh Ginger

  • Remove the thin peel with a paring knife, vegetable peeler, or by scraping with the edge of a spoon (this works especially well if the ginger is very fresh). 
  • Inside, you’ll find moist, fibrous, pale golden flesh. 
  • Grate, mince, or slice it depending on your recipe. 
  • For maximum flavor without the woody texture, grate ginger into cheesecloth (or a clean kitchen towel) and squeeze out the juice. Potent ginger juice is ideal for marinades, dressings, and cocktails. 

Dried and Ground Ginger: Concentrated Flavor, Convenient Medicine 

Ginger also appears in dried and ground form in the spice aisle. While we often associate ground ginger with pumpkin pie, cookies, and cakes, this form can have even stronger medicinal impact because it’s more concentrated by weight. 

Historically, once ginger traveled via the spice trade to Europe, its natural sweetness and warmth earned it a place in desserts and sweet breads. Legend (and Time Magazine) credit Queen Elizabeth I with popularizing the gingerbread figure—the ancestor of today’s holiday gingerbread man. 

How to Use Ground Ginger 

  • In baking: cookies, cakes, quick breads, and pies 
  • In savory dishes: rubs for roasted vegetables, curries, stews, and spice blends 
  • In warm drinks: stir into hot water with honey and lemon, or add to chai-style tea 

Both fresh and dried ginger work beautifully in the cuisines of East and Southeast Asia—think curries, soups, stews, stir-fries, and dipping sauces. In medieval Europe, ginger was commonly used in sauces and condiments served with rich meats, both to balance flavor and to aid digestion of fatty foods. 

Today, ginger has moved beyond the holidays and appears year-round in everything from salad dressings to mocktails and cocktails. 

Ginger in Winter: Teas, Soups, and Simple Rituals 

Bitter cold winter days are the perfect time to play with ginger in the kitchen—and in your cup. To make ginger tea, use store-bought ginger tea bags, or simply slice fresh ginger and steep it in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Add honey and lemon for a throat-soothing, immune-supportive cup. 

Ginger Tea Can 
  • Soothe sore throats 
  • Take the edge off body aches 
  • Warm you from the inside out 
Everyday Cooking Ideas
  • Add grated ginger to classic soups like vegetable, chicken noodle, or miso. 
  • Stir fresh or ground ginger into salad dressings with tamari, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. 
  • Use ginger juice in marinades for fish, tofu, chicken, or root vegetables. 
  • Shake ginger into winter cocktails or mocktails with citrus, sparkling water, or yes—high-quality ginger ale. 

Because ginger is so potent, you don’t need much: even a teaspoon or two a day can add both flavor and potential health benefits. 

A Note on Safety 

For most people, culinary amounts of ginger are very safe. In supplement form or high doses, some people may experience heartburn or mild digestive upset. If you’re pregnant, on blood-thinning medication, or managing a complex medical condition, talk with your healthcare provider before taking concentrated ginger supplements. 

Just as ginger brings harmony to body systems—warming, moving, drying, and soothing—it can also bring harmony to the kitchen, tying together savory, sweet, hot, and cold dishes with its complex flavor. 

On the days when you feel chilled, sluggish, or a little off, a simple ritual—a steaming mug of ginger tea, a gingery soup simmering on the stove, or even a well-made ginger ale—can be both comfort and quiet medicine. 

Ginger Recipes to Try for Yourself

Try TABLE Magazine’s fantastic recipes with ginger and see if you experience the health benefits of this ancient medicinal food.

Winter Cauliflower with Ginger and Turmeric Dressing

Roasted cauliflower with ginger and turmeric on a black plate, drizzled with a creamy sauce and garnished with fresh greens.

Farro with Beets, Greens & Ginger Dressing

Farro served with Beets, Greens & Ginger Dressing in a skillet with a spoon on the side

Chamomile Ginger Poached Chicken

A white plate holds a salad arranged with tomatoes and sliced chamomile ginger poached chicken on top with two gold forks off to the side. It all sits against a green background.

Banana Ginger Upside Down Cake

A Banana Ginger Upside Down Cake sits in a white loaf pan, cut into slices with bananas and raisins on top and two forks sitting beside the pan.

Gingerbread Cookies

A pile of gingerbread cookies decorated with white icing and red bulb sprinles.

Steamed Striped Bass with Ginger & Scallions

Delicately light steamed striped bass with ginger and scallion sitting atop a blue plate.

Haitian Ginger Tea

Haitian Ginger Tea with a cinnamon stick served in a glass

Ginger Mama Cake

Strawberries, berries, and flowers adorn a ginger cake with the sides non-iced, blue, pink, and purples color the cake.

Gingered Peach and Blackberry Pie

Gingered Peach and Blackberry Pie served in a glass plate with different-colored flowers in a glass on the side

Story by Kristen Palmer
Photo Courtesy of Milada Vigerova

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How to Watch This Year’s Oscar Nominees

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The actor in Sinners the movie sings in a barn.

35 features received nods for the 98th Academy Awards, and 33 of the Oscar nominees can be watched now (or soon) either in theaters or via streaming services. 

Where to Watch 2026’s Oscar Nominees

While a few films are running ahead of the pack — if you haven’t, you should probably get to Sinners and One Battle After Another as soon as possible — Oscar completists have a lot to watch between now and the big night. 

A total of 35 feature films received nods when the nominees for the 98th Academy Awards were revealed this morning (January 22) as well as 15 short films. The morning contained a record-breaking tally: Sinners earned an impressive 16 nominations, claiming the record for most nods received by a single film. (Previously, a trio of films were in a three-way tie with 14 nominations apiece: All About Eve, Titanic, and La La Land.) 

One Battle After Another came in second with 13 nominations; Frankenstein, Hamnet, and Marty Supreme earned nine apiece. All five of those leaders are on the Best Picture list, alongside Bugonia, F1, The Secret Agent, Sentimental Value, and Train Dreams.

Looking to Watch Them All?

Those seeking to complete the fabled Oscars Death Race (seeing each and every nominated feature and short before Oscar night) have a tall order ahead, even in terms of simple logistics: The nominees are spread across theatrical screenings, streaming services and digital on-demand platforms, with some yet to see wide availability in the United States. 

For cineastes looking to catch up without the pressure of seeing all 35 features, though, there are plenty of options … for all but two films, as surprise Best Original Song nominee Viva Verdi! and Best Documentary nominee Cutting Through Rocks are currently unavailable outside of film festivals. 

Here’s our rundown of where to watch the nominated films, at least as of this writing; check updated lists on your favorite streaming services at the end of the month, and keep a close eye on showtimes near you for in-theater showings (which, of course, is the best way to watch). 

Currently In Theaters

Arco, Avatar: Fire and Ash, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, The Secret Agent, Song Sung Blue, Zootopia 2

Streaming on Netflix

Frankenstein, KPop Demon Hunters, The Perfect Neighbor, Train Dreams

Streaming on Max

The Alabama Solution, One Battle After Another, Sinners, Weapons 

Streaming on Apple TV+

Come See Me in the Good Light, F1, The Lost Bus

Streaming on Peacock

Bugonia, Jurassic World: Rebirth

Streaming on Disney+

Elio

Streaming on Kanopy

Diane Warren: Relentless 

Streaming on Hulu and Shudder

The Ugly Stepsister

Available for Digital Rental

Blue Moon, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, It Was Just an Accident, Little Amélie or the Character of Rain, Mr. Nobody Against Putin, Sentimental Value, The Smashing Machine 

Coming Soon to Select Theaters

Kokuho, Sirāt, The Voice of Hind Rajab

Story by Sean Collier
Sinners Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures 

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Cocktail Shake-Off 2026, A Festival of Local Libations

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Six cocktails is different glasses on a black surface behind a white logo for cocktail shake-off.

TABLE Magazine to host Pittsburgh’s Top Bartenders in a competition for the Best Cocktail Recipe!

Twelve bartending teams from Pittsburgh’s top establishments will participate in a competition where YOU are the judge. Each team will be assigned a spirit provided by one of 12 participating local distilleries to build a cocktail worthy of your vote for Best Cocktail Recipe.

Join us as we raise our glasses to passionate mixologists who will unleash their creativity to bring their vision to life in every shaken, stirred, and garnished cocktail. DJ Selecta will be spinning the hottest beats, bringing the party vibes to life.

Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026
Time: 6:30-9:30pm
VIP Entry: 6:30pm
General Entry: 7pm
Location: ROOST Pittsburgh
250 Forbes Ave Suite 201
Downtown Pittsburgh
Tickets: General Admission $75, VIP $130 – Purchase tickets here!

VIP Experience

Your VIP Experience includes early entry into the VIP Lounge, where you will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, a welcome drink, and more!

Participating Bar Teams

The Warren Bar & Burrow
Spirits & Tales at The Oaklander
Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
Bar Marco
Lo Bar Cocktail Services
Scratch & Co.
Palm Palm
Pizzaiolo Primo
Revel
Space Bar
The Commoner
Rival

Participating Distilleries

Big Springs Spirits
Lawrenceville Distilling Company
Lucky Sign Spirits
Stateside Vodka
Wigle Whiskey
Love, Katie Distilling
Inspired by Spirits Distilling Co.
Iron City Distilling
and more…

Want to experience some tasty cocktails now? Why not try mixing up one of our curated cocktail recipes?

Subscribe to TABLE Magazine‘s print edition.

 

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her and Him

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A close up of a woman with brown hair wearing various heart necklaces and heart rings.

We know what you’re thinking… It’s too early to be thinking about Valentine’s Day gifts. However, would you rather rush around looking for a last-minute compromise or take the time to plan out a thoughtful gift that your loved one will love? Because we like the second option, we have a list of ideas to get you started. Whether your sweetie is into stylish accessories or loves to end the day with a special glass of wine, we’ve got you covered with gifts for her and for him from brands they’re sure to adore. 

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her and Him

For Her

A bottle of NEST clementine perfume in a black bottle beside an orange creamsicle.
Photo Courtesy of NEST

Crème de Clementine Eau de Parfum

Get your darling a bottle of perfume that’ll thrill you (and them) each time they spray it on. NEST’s fragrances are made with the highest quality oils so your scent stays on all day. The Crème de Clementine scent is a sweet and mouthwatering combination of clementine zest, vanilla creme, blonde woods, and citron accord. You won’t be able to keep your lips off of her!

A close up of a woman with brown hair wearing various heart necklaces and heart rings.
Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Bony Levy 14K Gold Heart Pendant Necklace

Hearts go with Valentine’s Day just like Christmas trees go with Christmas. Show your loved one just how much they mean to you with this simple 14K gold heart pendant necklace. The dainty shape and size of the charm and chain allow the necklace to be layered with other necklaces or worn alone as an everyday accessory. 

A set of earmuffs with a brown band and cream colored big puffs sits on a white background.
Photo courtesy of COACH

COACH Shearling Earmuffs

Since Valentine’s Day happens in February, chances are it’s quite cold outside during this romantic holiday. Don’t let your lover’s ears freeze in the chilly winds. These COACH Shearling Earmuffs come in a saddle band with big, colored puffs for maximum coziness. Perfect for a day out skating or just a walk to your Valentine’s dinner. 

A brown wine bottle with a monogram leaf heart with a monogram E in the center and a phrase inscription in white underneath it.
Photo courtesy of Williams Sonoma

Personalized World-Class Wine

Williams Sonoma has a way to show you’re thinking deeply about your partner. Choose from their selection of top wineries such as Caymus and Silver Oak and then pick a bottle of your choosing. From here you can engrave the bottle with monograms, a unique message, and various hearts or flowers. It’s a gift they’re going to want to keep long past when it’s empty.

For Him

A man in a white shirt has his arms crossed against his body, sporting a gold Nixon watch on his wrist.
Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Nixon The Time Teller Bracelet Watch

Minimalism has been a trending in the past few years and this watch from Nixon combines sleek, simple style with your partner’s favorite color. Available in a variety of monochrome or mixed colors, this watchface has the sleek Nixon logo placed at the three o’clock position for a timeless look. Don’t miss out on this simple accessory that’ll dress up any outfit. 

A brown bottle of BOSS elixir fragrance sits against a glowing wood ember.
Photo courtesy of BOSS

BOSS Bottled Elixir Eau de Parfum

Let his confidence fly with a fragrance that takes on an elevated interpretation of modern masculinity. BOSS’ highly concentrated mix provides an ambery, woody scent for the man in your life. Warm top notes of incense and a cedarwood base will have you wanting to cuddle up to your partner and breathe deeply. 

A bottle of Japenese whiskey sits on a table beside a whiskey glass filled with the drink and an ice cube, all in front of a tree background.
Photo courtesy of The Whiskey Exchange

Hibiki Harmony Whiskey

Complete the perfect Valentine’s Day with a glass of Hibiki Harmony Whiskey, a Japanese whiskey with a special taste. It comes in the brand’s trademark 24-faceted bottle, representing the Japanese seasons, but the flavor is where it really shines. It’s a light and approachable whiskey with enticing notes of orange peel and white chocolate, two signature Valentine’s ingredients.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Nordstrom

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Your Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day

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A variety of iced cookies, cupcakes and candies all in white, pink and red for Valentine's Day, on a textured white surface with white sprinkles.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and you know what that means! You better have all your dinner reservations in place, presents bought and wrapped, and the dream date planned out. Let’s be honest though: chances are you’re probably running a little behind on that checklist. Don’t worry, we’re here to make sure your Valentine’s Day goes off without a hitch. Whether you’re spending the day with your husband, wife, partner, family, or friends, there’s plenty to do to celebrate this day of love. Here’s everything you need to make the perfect day, from cocktails and gifts to the romantic dinner. You’ll be more than prepared.

Your Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day

Do Men Outspend Women on Valentine’s Day Gifts?

A rose on top of a light brown card for Valentine's Day

Yes, it’s true! Men really do outspend women on Valentine’s Day. It’s the only holiday where men go all-out to ensure only the best for their beloved. Check out our article to learn all about how this can be from shopkeepers and researchers alike.

Romantic Dinner Recipes for Valentine’s Day

a black table with a round metal pan with clams, scallops, crab legs, lobster, and shrimp

Nothing says “I love you” like a homemade dinner, cooked from scratch. Instead of spending tons of money on a night out, stay in this Valentine’s Day and surprise your date with an extravagant meal made with your own hands. Many of our recipes use simple steps which help you all along the way, so even if you’re a beginner-level chef, we have the perfect recipe for you. 

Valentine’s Day Cocktails and Mocktails

Two small cocktail classes hold a valentine's day cocktail in a red color with a foam on top and edible flowers as a garnish.

This year, instead of turning to a bottle of wine, spice things up with complex, flavorful cocktail and mocktail creations. Not only are the results delicious, you’ll have some bonding time in the kitchen while you shake up these sensual sips.

11 Romantic Wines for a Sensual, Decadent Valentine’s Day

A romantic glass of sparkling rosé wine on a black background

But, if your lover is attached to their wine, shop for a special bottle that makes the day more romantic. Whether you prefer reds, whites, or rosés, we have options that show you care and leave your evening with a relaxing atmosphere.

Aphrodisiac Board for Two

An aphrodisiac board for 2 with several aphrodisiac ingredients like, berries, nuts, cheese, honey, oyster shooters and pickled asparagus on a black counter in a black kitchen with two glasses of champagne, a champagne bottle, and a dish of oysters on the half shell in the background.

If the sensuality of Valentine’s Day doesn’t get you in the mood then our Aphrodisiac Board for Two sure will. Our board is made up of all the ingredients that boost your sexual health and add a bit of romance to any date night. From Pickled Asparagus to Oyster Shooters, who knows if you’ll even make it to the main course.

Aphrodisiac Foods for Love

An overhead photo of aphrodisiac foods like cherries, chocolate, asparagus, walnuts, honey, strawberries, chilies, saffron, and pomegranate in small bowls and on little dishes on a textured white surface with rose petals.

In case the above does not satisfy your intimate cravings, maybe a couple more choices for aphrodisiacs will. Infuse these delights into your dinner, cocktails, or even dessert to make sure your love shows. Plus, some of these ingredients burst with color making everything a little brighter on Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day Hotel Packages

A couple stands in a Valentine's Day Hotel package suite at Nemacolin with a fireplace in the distance as they look out the long windows.
Photo courtesy of Nemacolin

Spice up Valentine’s Day with a lovely staycation! Valentine’s Day hotel packages are ready to sweep you off your feet for the evening and take care of all the hard work for you with top-notch room service. Take this holiday as an opportunity to go all out and try something new.

Valentine’s Day Gifts That Go Beyond Flowers and Chocolate

A white striped blanket from Hudson Bay
Photo courtesy of Pendleton

Chocolates and flowers are by far the easiest gift to give but they’re not very memorable after they are gone. Instead, we have plenty of ideas that show thoughtfulness and that your partner will keep long after the holiday. Sometimes the best gifts are as simple as writing your own card rather than buying one at the store.

More Gifts for Her and Him

A close up of a woman with brown hair wearing various heart necklaces and heart rings.
Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Whether your sweetie is into stylish accessories or loves to end the day with a special glass of wine, we’ve got you covered with gifts for her and for him from brands they’re sure to adore.

Chocolate Tarts Recipe

An overhead photograph of chocolate tarts and individual chocolates on a textured white surface with white sprinkles and lavender.

What could be better for dessert than a decadent, chocolate heaven of a tart. A smooth chocolate filling and ganache topping flow over a crumbly crust. We recommend using local chocolate if you are able to, it makes all the difference.

CBD Valentine’s Day Candies and Chocolates

A variety of iced cookies, cupcakes and candies all in white, pink and red for Valentine's Day, on a textured white surface with white sprinkles.

Finish off the best Valentine’s Day ever with special candies and chocolates for your darling. These CBD recipes will help take away any stresses and allow for the rest of your evening to be a relaxing one. Just pop a chocolate in your mouth and cuddle up to a rom-com on the couch.

Rom-Com Cocktails for Spicing Up Your Valentine’s Day

In a tall glass sits a red Sweet Home Alabama Slammer garnished with a heart formed orange peel and surrounded by pink roses on the table.

Staying at home this year? If you’re alone or even if you have a girlfriend or two over, you should shake up a passionate cocktail to match your favorite rom-com. We’ve collected all your favorites like Say Anything then craft each a recipe that embodies the movie such as a Boozy Orange Creamsicle Shake.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Recipes for Your Leftover Roasted Chicken

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A person smears guac on a taco shell over a table of taco toppings.

Article Updated April 28, 2026

We’ve all been there. You buy a rotisserie chicken or two to use for dinner but end up needing less than you thought. Now you’re left with half a leftover rotisserie chicken and a recipe that you really don’t want to have for a second time this week. Instead, take that leftover meat to make one of these delicious yet simple recipes. You can create a meal for a whole party or a lunch for yourself just by skipping the food waste and putting those leftovers to good use. Plus, these recipes go beyond your simple roast chicken so you can have a solid two to three meals out of just one rotisserie chicken. Meal prepping has never been so easy.

Recipes for Your Leftover Roasted Chicken

Stocks and Soups

Whether you freeze whole chickens after you’ve dined on them once or twice, or have leftover meat, soup and stock recipes are great ways to use these nutritious and delicious leftovers.

Mushroom Stock

A stock pot with a variety of mushrooms and vegetables in a brown stock, with a wooden spoon in the upper left corner and some pepper and seasonings on a plate in the upper right corner.

True confessions: I always seem to have a few bags secreted into the back of my freezer that are filled rotisserie chicken carcasses. It only takes two or three to make your own stock. Thrown them into this recipe, and you will be AMAZED at the goodness. You can freeze the stock and use it to make something very simple like store-bought tortellini or brown rice floating in broth. Add a handful of chopped green onions and fresh parsley and you have another gourmet treat.

Farm Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

A chicken wild rice soup dish on a white background.

Soup is one of several perfect ways to use leftover roasted chicken. You can boil the bones for stock, and throw chunks of leftover meat into the soup. This delicious recipe from a foodie farm family calls for both! It’s a warming meal that you could serve with a crisp white wine and some crusty bread.

Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup

Asian-Inspired Chicken Noodle Soup served in a bowl, with lemon water, a spoon, and salt on the side

This delicious recipe uses rice noodles. Whether you’re on a gluten-free diet or not, the switch to rice noodles makes for a new flavor experience. Empasize that culinary adventure by adding the umami of a dash of soy sauce. Go still further, perhaps, by throwing tablespoons of fresh ginger root and turmeric root in the warming of the broth. My family loves the layering of flavors. Yours will too! The Asian-inflected flavors pair well with a classic beer.

Lemon and Fregula Chicken Soup

A bowl of soup with little round noodle balls, greens, chicken, and lemon slices on top sits in a dark teal bowl with a winter citrus salad sitting nearby.

TABLE’s frequent contributor Anna Franklin drew upon her Italian roots to embrace fregula. This is a unique, pearl-shaped Sardinian pasta which is toasted prior to packaging it up for sale. The texture and caramelization are what make it so delicious! We like to serve this alongside a fresh salad. That way, we have wonderful full meal for family and friends.

Chicken and Orzo Soup with Rotisserie Chicken

A black bowl of Chicken and Orzo Soup with a silver ladle in it.

Rather than make a chicken noodle soup, try a Chicken and Orzo Soup that fills your bowl with thyme, rosemary, onion, carrot, mushrooms, arugula, and so much more. Not only does this recipe use up your leftover chicken but it also ensures you have a big pot of soup to last throughout the week.

Casserole, Wraps, and Crostinis

Casserole, wrap, and crostini recipes cry out for leftover roasted chicken! Small tender bits of chicken get tossed around and combined with other great ingredients…and the resulting new dish is greater than any single ingredient that went into it.

Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole served in a plate which is placed on a wooden surface

Casseroles are time-tested ways of using leftovers. Multiple James Beard Award winner Cheryl Alters Jamison makes an absolutely delicious New Mexican casserole here, and it could become a new star in your kitchen. The charms of New Mexican green chile are under-appreciated in most of the United States. We think it’s time to embrace their gentle heat.

Martha Stewart-Inspired Chicken Pot Pie

A portion of Martha Stewart-Inspired Chicken Pot Pie sits on a pale green and white plate with a fork and knife beneath it and a piece of focaccia in the bottom right corner.

Who doesn’t love a Chicken Pot Pie? It’s warm, gooey, and delicious on the inside all in a crunchy crust fresh out of the oven. This particular recipe takes inspiration from Martha Stewart’s easy-to-follow cooking so you can make a crust from scratch and still be happy with the end product. But, you can always opt for a store-bought crust too.

Smoked Chicken Wrap Recipe

A broken in half chicken wrap sits on butcher paper with a side of chips above the broken wrap.

Everyone needs something that can be made ahead in a grab-and-go style for lunch. This Smoked Chicken Wrap uses leftover roasted chicken along with cheddar cheese, roasted tomatoes, spring mix, honey, sriracha, and a touch of liquid smoke. Pair it with a bag of chips and your lunch break is ready to go.

Chicken Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps

A flat-lay view of chicken bulgogi lettuce wraps illustrating a chicken lettuce wraps recipe.

Fresher and lighter than a casserole, this Chicken Bulgogi Lettuce Wrap recipe is a great way to use leftover chicken. Once you master it, you can add your favorite chopped vegetables and fresh herbs to customize it to your taste. Try shredded carrots, fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of toasted unsweetened coconut and a dash of tabasco or other spicy condiment…YUM!

Chicken Quesadillas with Guacamole and Pico de Gallo

Chicken Quesadillas on a green plate accompanied by guacamole, sour cream, and pico.

This recipe is super kid-friendly. What young palate doesn’t love a quesadilla? They can get into the kitchen and make it with you, which is half the fun. We think bonding in the kitchen is one of the great joys of family life!

Chicken Bruschetta

Chicken Bruschetta laid on a white table, a perfect summer appetizer.

Little chunks of chicken seasoned in a classic Italian melange of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. A sliver of delicious toasted baguette. A plate of these with a bottle of prosecco and three friends is a happy hour just waiting to happen.

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Creamy enchilada with limes and garnishes in a skillet

A one-skillet meal means you have less clean-up after you’ve relaxed and enjoyed yourself at dinner. A Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchilada is a little spicy and full of all the things you look for in an enchilada from the chicken to the cheese to the sauce, and even the tortillas on top. Just don’t forget the avocado, limes, and cilantro for garnish.

Chicken Enfrijolada

A plate of Chicken Enfrijolada

This traditional Mexican comfort food takes tortillas full of roasted chicken and drops them into a savory black bean sauce with plenty of spices. It’s an authentic taste of the country that you can make at home with easy steps. For the garnish, you’ll fill your plate with green onions, crumbled queso fresco, and a drizzle of Mexican crema or sour cream for a cooling aspect.

Pasta

Many pasta recipes call out for shredded chicken. Why not use your leftover chicken? A quick warm up in a nicely spiced sauce is all they need to be delicious once again. Your whole family will love what you’ve made.

Spicy Chicken Sauce

A spicy chicken sauce pasta dish homemade by Victoria Sande in a dark bowl surrounded by ingredients.

Uruguayan-Italian grandmother Victoria Sande shared one of her favorite recipes with TABLE readers. As with much traditional Italian cooking, all you have to do is start with good ingredients and follow instructions. The secret is in keeping the traditions intact. When you succeed, your tastebuds recognize the deliciousness.

Chicken Harissa Gluten-Free Pasta

A plate of chicken harissa gluten-free pasta on a white background

A Moroccan-inflected recipe makes it easy to use your leftover chicken. If you don’t know harissa, rush right out to the grocery store’s International aisle and track down a jar of harissa spice. It has a gentle heat, and cries out for tomatoes and peppers and tender meats. Combining all of the above creates a wonderful layering of flavors.

Other Delicious Leftover Chicken Recipes

Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

A bowl full of rotisserie buffalo chicken dip with pita bread, carrots, cucumbers, chips, and pretzels around it.

Have a party or game day coming up? Our Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip comes together with just five ingredients. Simply cook a smooth mixture of cream cheese, chicken, ranch, hot sauce, and shredded cheese in the oven for an addictive appetizer.

Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Taco Bar

Various plates full of taco toppings like chicken, salsa, sour cream, lime juice, and more.

We’re lovers of a taco bar for its customizability. Laying out bowls of toppings like cheese, guac, pico, salsa, sour cream, lettuce, lime wedges, and so much more means each person gets to personalize their taco. No more worrying about who likes what which leaves more time for munching.

High Protein Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt

Three plates full of High Protein Chicken Salad with nuts on top.

Looking for a lunch options that’s healthy without breaking the bank? A High Protein Chicken Salad is low cost and provides nutrients that help you get through the day. It uses Greek yogurt instead of mayo so it’s not as heavy as your usual chicken salad and features cut green apples.

Story by Keith Recker

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Your February 2026 Horoscope for the Full Moon in Leo

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A tree sits on a snowy February hill with a full moon peaking over the tree.

The Full Moon on February 1 rises in Leo, illuminating questions of authority, visibility, and personal sovereignty. Full Moons heighten awareness and bring matters into view, often through tension – between inner needs and outer demands, personal will and shared reality. Emotions tend to run closer to the surface, and interactions can feel charged, shocking, or revealing. This lunation can be used proactively to clarify where you stand, what you’re responsible for, and what you’re asking others to recognize.

Leo sharpens these themes by centering everything on the heart. As the sign of the Sun, Leo represents vitality, command, and the capacity to act from an inner core of conviction. Its power comes from presence rather than persuasion. Leo operates best when it has a clear role, domain, or territory where authority feels natural and self-expression is welcomed rather than negotiated.

Unlike the other fire signs, Leo is fixed and bestial. Its strength builds slowly but holds firmly once engaged. Decisions made under Leo skies tend to be wholehearted and difficult to reverse. This produces generosity, confidence, and creative leadership when security is strong. When it is not, the same force can harden into defensiveness, territorial behavior, or struggles over control and recognition.

The Full Moon in Leo is direct and uncomplicated. It prefers straightforward expression and clear lines of responsibility. This supports leadership and decisive action, while also exposing limits around shared space, resources, and cooperation. You can count on this lunation to highlight where confidence keeps things in motion, and where it presses too hard.

At its best, this lunation encourages actions rooted in self-trust and creative purpose. Growth comes through aligning will with responsibility, and allowing the heart to lead without eclipsing others.

Recent Pressure and Negotiation Between Venus and Mercury, Mars, and Pluto

The Full Moon arrives with significant recent activity still lingering in the background. Mars’ conjunction with Pluto has compressed pressure over the past stretch of time, intensifying ambition, resolve, and questions of control. This has been an influence that operates below the surface as much as above it, pushing situations toward irrevocable decisions or exposing where power dynamics were already strained. For many, the past weeks have involved confrontation with limits – personal, relational, or structural – and a heightened awareness of what is at stake when authority or autonomy is challenged.

Running alongside that intensity, Mercury’s conjunction with Venus has shaped how those pressures have been communicated and managed. Conversations have carried unusual weight, and tone has mattered as much as content. Words have been used to smooth, negotiate, or preserve connection, even where underlying tensions remained unresolved. This alignment has favored diplomacy, charm, and aesthetic coherence, while also revealing where agreement rested on presentation rather than substance.

What Does it Mean?

Taken together, these recent influences describe a familiar situation: strong pressure to move things forward paired with a parallel effort to keep exchanges civil and workable. Some issues have been pushed directly. Others have been talked around, softened, or temporarily contained. That combination leaves a sense of momentum without full resolution, and of conversations that have carried more weight than their surface tone might suggest.

The intensity of these transits hasn’t disappeared, and neither has the careful handling of words and relationships that followed it. Watch who is taking up space, who is being recognized, and where responsibility is sitting. Leo brings attention back to the center of the room, to roles that can no longer stay implied or indirect – this may help resolve lingering doubts.

This lunation features many separating aspects, and few applying ones: that usually suggests it will introduce less new pressure, and leave space for where recent efforts have landed. Decisions made under strain, compromises reached through diplomacy, and desires that have been carefully managed shouldn’t be kept in the background. Following on from the Full Moon in Cancer, Leo shifts things toward owning actions and consequences both.

A Rare Chance for Something Useful: Saturn Sextile Uranus

Running quietly beneath the louder dynamics of recent weeks is a rare and steadier influence: Saturn in supportive aspect to Uranus. Because both planets move slowly, this alignment unfolds over a long stretch of time rather than announcing itself in a single moment. Its effects are subtle but durable, shaping conditions rather than events.

Saturn and Uranus rarely cooperate easily. One is concerned with limits, responsibility, and what holds over time. The other introduces disruption, experimentation, and the pressure to modernize. In this configuration, those impulses find a workable relationship. Change can be experienced in a way that’s less reactive and more intentional. Innovation benefits from a bit more structure. Adjustments that might otherwise feel destabilizing can arrive with a clearer sense of timing and containment.

This background pattern supports reform that is neither cosmetic nor reckless. Systems under strain can be modified without being torn apart. New ideas find practical application under the auspices of this aspect, and unconventional approaches earn credibility through results rather than spectacle. This sextile favors changes that are built to last and improvements that respect both necessity and possibility.

The Moon on Dubhe, the Back of the Great Bear

This Full Moon also aligns closely with Dubhe, the leading star of Ursa Major, a constellation long associated with strength, vigilance, and the burden of responsibility. Dubhe sits on the back of the Bear and was traditionally understood as a star connected to bearing weight – carrying loads, holding position, and staying upright under pressure. As one of the “pointers,” it has also been linked with orientation and guidance: knowing where north is, and helping others find it too.

With the Moon here, these themes land in ordinary, lived experience. Emotional responses may center on duty, protection, and what you’re carrying for others, whether by choice or by necessity. This can show up as heightened sensitivity around obligations, leadership roles, or being the one others lean on when things feel unstable.

Dubhe’s influence is steady rather than subtle. It favors direct engagement and endurance over retreat. At the same time, it brings awareness of limits. The Moon’s contact highlights where responsibility is being taken on personally, and where that weight may need to be redistributed or acknowledged more openly.

Seasonal Guidance: Mid-Season Check-In

We’re now well into the body of winter, when cold and moisture settle in and the pace of life naturally slows. This is the season of holding rather than building – keeping routines running, preserving warmth, and avoiding unnecessary strain. Progress continues, but quietly, through upkeep and repetition. Think less about expansion and more about what keeps the household, the body, and the mind functional through long nights and short days. Regular meals, steady sleep, and simple routines matter more than ambition right now. Winter rewards those who work with limits instead of pushing against them.

Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)

Cold, damp conditions pull heat away quickly, so warmth has to be maintained deliberately. Favor cooked foods, soups, grains, and moderate spice. Exercise works best when it’s brief and purposeful – strength, resistance, or steady walking – rather than anything that leaves you depleted. Long gaps between meals or irregular sleep drain energy faster than usual. Social life is still important, but smaller gatherings suit the season better. When warmth is conserved and effort is measured, motivation stays intact without burning out.

Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

Mid-winter suits your preference for routine, but stiffness can creep in if days become too repetitive. Gentle movement helps: stretching, walking, light mobility work. Heavier foods are fine, especially with fats and oils, but balance them with warmth and digestion-friendly meals. Keep living spaces aired and orderly without overworking them. Small maintenance tasks done regularly prevent larger problems later. This is a good time to simplify schedules and focus on what reliably supports health and work.

Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

Cold and damp conditions can dull circulation, both physical and mental. Keep days structured with clear start and end points. Regular movement is good to keep front of mind – walking, light cardio, anything that keeps blood moving. Warm drinks help more than cold ones. Too much screen time or abstract thinking can fog focus, so mix conversation with something tangible: writing by hand, cooking, or shared tasks. Social contact works best when it’s steady rather than scattered.

Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)

Moisture accumulates easily in winter, so warmth and rhythm are key. Favor regular mealtimes, warm foods, and consistent sleep. Long baths, gentle heat, and layered clothing help keep the body comfortable. Emotional energy benefits from simple outlets – routine check-ins, creative habits, or quiet companionship – rather than letting everything pool internally. Avoid extremes of isolation or over-giving. When days follow a predictable rhythm, sensitivity stays workable and supportive rather than heavy.

Sabian Symbol for 13° Leo: Human Soul Awaiting Opportunity for Outward Manifestation

At this Full Moon’s degree, the image points to something internal that has reached readiness without yet taking shape in the world. The emphasis isn’t on inspiration itself, but on the conditions required for expression. A capacity, intention, or sense of purpose exists, formed enough to act, but still dependent on timing, placement, and circumstance.

Read practically, this symbol describes the space between preparation and execution. Skills have been learned, instincts sharpened, and limits tested. It’s time for contact with real situations – work, relationships, responsibilities – where those inner resources are put to use in ordinary decisions, sustained effort, and follow-through.

This image favors translation over reflection. Inner conviction gains meaning when it enters daily life: taking responsibility, committing to a role, or standing visibly behind what you’ve already developed. Progress requires action!

What Might February 2026’s Full Moon in Leo Mean for Your Sign?

Aries

The Leo Full Moon highlights the contrast between private stability and outward expression. Home and family matters set the baseline, shaping how much energy you have to spend elsewhere. From that footing, creative impulses and desire for enjoyment rise quickly. Romance, hobbies, or time with children feel more emotionally charged and satisfying, but kneejerk reactions may be stronger than usual, too. The key is pacing pleasure against responsibility. When domestic foundations are tended to, play and self-expression land more cleanly and with fewer complications.

Taurus

This period places professional realities squarely in view. Conversations around work, responsibility, and long-term direction are a bit more salient than usual, and your choices are more visible than they may feel. How you present ideas, handle authority, and manage expectations will shape momentum. Recognition grows through steadiness and competence, more so than through display alone. Progress comes from showing up prepared, speaking plainly, and letting results speak for you. Small decisions around structure, timing, and tone have lasting effects on how your role is understood.

Gemini

This is a good time to prove to yourself that ideas can turn into something usable. Big-picture thinking, learning, or long-range plans feel compelling, but attention also falls on what those pursuits actually cost and support. Money, time, and personal resources become part of the conversation. Enthusiasm carries you far, but follow-through matters more than theory right now. When insight is paired with practical limits – budgets, schedules, real commitments – confidence grows. You’ve got intrinsic genius, fair enough; but ground inspiration in what you can realistically keep in motion.

Cancer

Attention is being brought to what supports you in concrete terms – namely, your income, possessions, and the habits that give your life stability. With Jupiter amplifying your presence, confidence grows easily, and so does appetite for more. With this lunation, the question is how expansion is funded and sustained. Spending, commitments, and promises benefit from a second look. Growth feels best when it’s grounded in what you actually have, not what you hope will appear later. Steady choices around resources reinforce confidence far more than bold gestures.

Leo

With the Full Moon in your sign, attention turns outward through other people. Much of the current activity gathers in the partnership area of life, bringing conversations, negotiations, and shared decisions into focus. Exchanges carry weight, and how you listen matters as much as what you say. This is a period where ideas, affections, and intentions only take shape through real interaction. Agreements, collaborations, or renewed commitments make inner convictions visible. Progress comes from meeting others directly, working things out in practice, and letting relationships show you how your will operates in the world.

Virgo

This Full Moon brings attention to how daily systems connect to longer-term aims. Work routines, health habits, and small obligations take on added significance as they feed into broader goals and group commitments. Efficiency matters, but so does your own health and burnout meter. Interactions with colleagues or collaborators highlight where cooperation helps and where adjustments are overdue. When was the last time you considered refining methods rather than adding more tasks? When everyday practices are kept workable and consistent, they support the wider networks and aspirations you’re investing in.

Libra

Public life and social networks are coming into the same frame this lunation. Professional visibility increases, and with it, expectations about where you stand and who you represent. At the same time, friendships, groups, or long-term aims carry more emotional weight than usual. Invitations, alliances, or shared projects can open doors, but they also reveal where loyalties and priorities differ. A question for you to consider: which connections genuinely support your direction and which ones stretch resources too thin? Choices around time, commitment, and reputation shape how far opportunity can realistically extend.

Scorpio

Attention settles a little closer to home for you, both literally and mentally. Conversations turn inward, circling family matters, living arrangements, or long-standing emotional patterns that shape how you operate day to day. Comfort and stability will count more than momentum, and small domestic decisions carry outsized influence. Changes made behind the scenes – reorganizing space, adjusting routines, tending to private relationships – quietly reinforce your foundation. Set visibility aside for a moment and focus on durability, making sure the base you’re standing on can support whatever comes next.

Sagittarius

It’s time to emphasize how beliefs intersect with dependency and trust. Big ideas, long-range plans, or educational pursuits feel energizing, but they’re closely tied to shared resources, obligations, or emotional entanglements. Support from others may be available, though it comes with conditions that deserve careful attention. Conversations around money, commitments, or deeper motivations can shift perspective quickly. Insight grows through recognizing where independence is real and where cooperation is unavoidable, and by handling those intersections with honesty rather than assumption.

Capricorn

The Leo Full Moon highlights shared territory for you – finances, obligations, and the quieter dynamics that shape trust. Encounters with others carry more depth than usual, and exchanges may touch on matters that aren’t easily compartmentalized. Jupiter’s presence in your relationship house can broaden perspective, bringing useful allies or clarifying where cooperation truly works. Let it! Attention to boundaries, debts, and long-term commitments helps keep things workable. Consider addressing what’s mutual and intertwined with honesty, rather than managing everything alone.

Aquarius

This Full Moon highlights how visible you’ve become lately, and how much of that presence is self-directed. With several influences emphasizing your own voice, appearance, and initiative, momentum builds through personal decisions rather than negotiation. You’re more noticeable, more expressive, and more inclined to act first and explain later. Ideas move quickly from thought to speech to action. The challenge is pacing – not everything needs immediate output. When intention is paired with restraint, your confidence reads as steadiness rather than urgency, and your direction becomes easier for others to follow.

Pisces

You’ll experience a strong 5th and 12th house emphasis this Full Moon which draws a line between what’s been held privately and what wants expression. Quiet reflection, creative incubation, or emotional processing has been underway for some time, largely out of view. Now, enjoyment, romance, or creative output starts to pull forward, asking for space in daily life. As things emerge, you’ll benefit from gentle handling rather than full exposure all at once. When private insights are given a practical outlet – a project, a conversation, a shared pleasure – they become edifying rather than overwhelming.

Horoscope Author

Wade Caves, based in Brooklyn, NY, is an astrological consultant and educator specializing in problem-solving applications of astrology. He teaches astrological divination and astronomy at the School of Traditional Astrology. Wade also publishes his work on world astrology through Skyscript’s In Mundo publishing desk. He even hosts the World Astrology Summit. A conference dedicated to the advancement of astrology for global problem-solving. Website: wadecaves.com • skyscript.co.uk/inmundo. Email: hello@wadecaves.com.

Story by Wade Caves
Photo Courtesy of Pascal Debrunner

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How to Feed a Family in the Shifting Economy of 2026

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A woman grocery shops in a store with a basket on her arm.

With grocery prices on the rise, feeding a household today can feel like a constant negotiation between health, time and cost. But eating well on a budget doesn’t have to mean deprivation. Often, it’s about identifying the habits that quietly cost families the most and learning how to replace them with smarter strategies. 

As a restaurateur married to a chef and a mom of three, I’ve seen firsthand how intentional planning and thoughtful choices can turn ordinary grocery trips into strategic investments in wellness and savings, even on a tight budget. 

Here are several effective ways to keep healthy, affordable food on your table.

Tips for Grocery Shopping and Feeding a Family in the 2026 Economy

Shelves of vegetable produce inside a grocery store.
Photo Courtesy of NRD

Consider the Source

Paying attention to where your food comes from, and how much nourishment it provides often reveals that the “cheap” option offers the least value. Frozen chicken products, for instance, are marketed as convenient shortcuts, but they’re nutritionally costly. At ALDI, you may spend $8 on a 25-ounce package of frozen chicken nuggets with more than 20 added ingredients. The same store sells chicken thighs for $2.29 per pound, with one ingredient. The latter delivers more food, better nutrition and greater versatility. 

A person pushes a grocery cart full of ingredients.
Photo Courtesy of Karsten Winegeart

Plan Ahead with a Weekly Meal Strategy

Meal planning is one of the most effective tools for building a healthy, cost-efficient kitchen. Start by outlining meals for the week, then list the ingredients needed. This simple step prevents last-minute decisions that often lead to expensive takeout or fast food (one drive-thru trip for a family of five can easily exceed $50). Instead, put that money towards an intentional family dinner at a local restaurant and work it into your plan so it feels special rather than impulsive. 

An uncooked chicken sits on a cutting board.
Photo Courtesy of Hayley Ryczek

Use Leftovers Strategically

When planning meals, aim to include a minimum of two or three leftover-based meals. In our house, leftovers would die in the back of the fridge if they weren’t labeled, dated and part of the plan. Labeling helps prevent food waste and keeps meals visible. And leftovers don’t need to be repetitive: a batch of Bolognese might appear with penne one night, on slider buns with ricotta the next day and tucked into breakfast tacos later in the week. 

Four sections of berries, nuts, and seeds.
Photo Courtesy of Yisong Dong

Skip Last-Minute Shopping Trips

Impulse purchases are one the biggest budget drains. Shopping without a plan, especially when hungry, makes it more likely you’ll grab high-margin, low-nutrition items. Designate one weekly shopping day and stick to a list. I also use that day as my prep day, washing and chopping ingredients in advance so meals come together quickly when needed. 

Pumpkins sit on top of each other in orange and green.
Photo Courtesy of Aaron Burden

Look for Bargains Without Sacrificing Quality

Healthy food doesn’t need to come from high-end stores. ALDI often carries comparable products at significantly lower prices. 

Story by Katrina Tomacchio (@thenortheastginger)
Featured Photo Courtesy of Boxed Water is Better

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