Shopping in Oswego

Though there are few online user reviews for Calico Gals, more than 410 Facebookers are fans. Featured in the spring 2005 issue of Quilt Sampler.

Buzzillions reviewers give SallyeAnder Soaps “No-Bite-Me” cream an average of 4.1 stars. SallyeAnder Soaps have also been reviewed favorably on The Greenists and Examiner.com.

A pirate ship, twisty slides, rope ladders, and a tire swing. These are just a few of the imagination-boosting play pieces furnishing KidzClub’s 6,000-square-foot indoor playground. Inside this safe environment, kids eight and under won’t find flashing lights, robotics, or computers that have learned to love. That’s because KidzClub steers clear of toys that minimize engagement by filling the interactive world with hands-on activities that include a mini gas station, a campground, a construction area, and peddle cars. While watching the little ones scamper or act on the stage, parents can sit at booths in the adjacent café and sip complimentary coffee while surfing the Net. Combining adventuresome play with nibbles such as chicken nuggets and pizza under one roof, KidzClub Indoor Play and Party Place also makes a great place for birthday parties.

Patchwork Plus lures creative and professional sewers alike with the enchanting siren song of 5,000 square feet of printed and solid fabrics, yarn, thread, patterns, and resources. Visitors can utilize the store's bright natural lighting to assure color accuracy when picking out a yard or two of batik fabric designed by Edyta Sitar to bring Indonesian inspiration to home projects ($9.99/yard), or when checking out Noro’s Kureyon yarn, a hand-dyed 100% wool yarn perfect for knitting projects large, small, and pet-Halloween-costume sized ($9.25/skein). Floriani threads dazzle in a variety of bright colors, making stunning accents for embroidered linens and clothing ($5.95/spool). Oriental, floral, and child-friendly printed fabrics and a wide selection of books and patterns equip seam samurais with a stockpile of creative ammunition.

Fantasy Fashions' knowledgeable staff fits guests into flirty undergarments and sexy costumes that range in size from 0 to 20. Soft silks and lace hug curves as guests show off voluptuous proportions in alluring corsets that fashion bodies into illusory timepieces. Flirty femmes can drape physiques in flattering, soft robes ($29.98–$49.98) and scintillating babydoll nightwear ($19.98–$49.98). Ankle tattoos depicting the periodic table vanish as gams dive into the silky webs of delicate hosiery ($6.98–$29.98), and matching bra-and-panty sets ($19.98–$39.98) ensure flattering under-outfits. Fantasy Fashions also gift wraps orders for free as an added perk.

Sam Mondello Jr. operates a family grocery of his own where he peddles fine Italian imports. The cozy neighborhood spot is a treasure trove of treats, with glass display cases packed with specialty meats and cheeses, produce coolers full of housemade sauces, and shelves loaded with espresso makers and Italian ceramics. The shop offers a sweeping variety of pastas made from premium ingredients, such as fettuccine made from whole wheat and rotini made from melted-down ancient Roman coins.

Sam and his staff extend their culinary expertise to preparing a wide variety of premade meals, whipping up Italian-style subs in the deli and freezing freshly made trays of lasagna and pizza. The skilled chefs provide hot Italian specialties to cater a wide-variety of special events, from large office functions to intimate football-game gatherings.