(New) York Mints.

What's $1.99, comes in the cutest (reusable) tin and leaves you with the cool, minty sensation of a York Peppermint Pattie?

I'd much rather buy these than Altoids--even the chocolate covered kind. These are more gentle on the mouth. And look at the tin! It's adorable.

For those of us who like chocolate but must limit our intake these are great. They feel chic and decadent. And they taste really good. Zero fat.

I'm considering several modes of recycling for the tin: 1. a mini sewing kit assembled by me. 2. a travel kit with eye mask, handy wipes and earplugs. 3. a pill/vitamin/remedy/mini first aid kit for my hand bag, complete with band-aids and alcohol wipes. 4. a waterproof love note container for M.'s lunch bag. 5. a dental hygiene ensemble with mini floss and tee tree picks.

I just realized I like the tin more than the mints. Nothing wrong with that, I guess. I'm a sucker for packaging.

You can get yourself a tin of these mints for $1.99 at the drugstore or at

http://www.target.com/.