Explore daily insights on the USA TODAY crossword puzzle by . Uncover expert takes and answers in our crossword blog.

ELMO (4D: "Tickle Me" doll) Tickle Me ELMO is a stuffed version ... OREO (9D: Black-and-white cookie) Hello to our crossword friend OREO, whose color scheme matches the puzzle so nicely.

The word SHUFFLE in the title alerted me to be on the lookout for a hidden anagram theme. When I suspect an anagram theme, I pay close attention to the letters surrounding any word breaks in the ...

Choose the sounds and syllables carefully Dogs respond well to names ending in vowel sounds, which tend to be extended when we call for our furry friend. "Archie" becomes "Archiee" for instance ... If ...