BAG IT

I'M A CHEAPSKATE, especially in the kitchen. I'll pay $13 a pound for cheese, but I really hate wasting money on paper towels, foil, plastic bags and the like. I'm pretty sure Gel-Cool's reps didn't know that when they sent a sample of their nifty reusable gel bags and small gel-equipped bento box, all great products designed to take the place of disposable paper and plastic.
I realize that the small, hand-sized bagsand box will need a bit of soap and water and dry time to keep them fresh and clean, but I love that they are durable, reusable, and lined with an ultra-thin gel-pack to keep the contents cool (or hot.) They come in various sizes, including one that's just right for a sandwich, and one that would fit a bite of cheese and some veggies. The bento box is a bit small, but perfect for a handful of snack crackers or chips. The bags are $7 to $9 each; the bento box is $13. Find them online at http://www.reuseit.com/