Traveling with young kids? Pack full outfits in Ziploc bags so there's no rummaging around in the suitcase each morning. (Bonus: They can dress themselves and learn independence.) Pearls optional.

Stack your terracotta pots. (More interesting than the usual, run-of-the-mill patio cluster...and fewer flowers to buy).

Impress the hell out of your party guests by inserting cheapie glow sticks into cotton-candy cones. Invite folks only at night.

Add an exotic edge to a tub of water bottles at your next party--it's simply a matter of wrapping those Costco labels in drugstore duct tape.

When life gives you lemons...use them to erase those unsightly water stains on your shower hardware.

How to lend a ghoulish cast to your Halloween cupcakes: Add tonic water and gelatin to your frosting and they'll glow in the dark.

I've actually stooped to pre-scooping my ice cream before a party and storing the balls in a plastic freezer bag. This is decidedly smarter.

Use a muffin tin to make giant, lemon-topped ice cubes for party pitchers. Genius.

Cheap eats: Grilled onions with slabs of gorgonzola and a balsamic drizzle.

Watermelon balloons: elevating the ordinary...to the extraordinary. (Extra points if you comment and tell me where I copped this phrase.)