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FREE LUNCH: Well, not exactly. But you can pack a paper-and-plastic free lunch in a reusable sack from ECOlunchboxes. Sewn from artisan block-printed cotton, these machine-washable totes come in backpack and purse styles. Stainless steel food container, three coordinating cloth napkins and "spork" included. Suggested retail: $50. Other accessories sold separately. Find them at Whole Foods or www.ECOlunchboxes.com

AL FRESCO DINING: Cindy Crawford's Outdoor Living accessories for JC Penney look great on the table and have enough weight to keep them from tumbling in the wind. Rattan utensil caddy, $15.99; tray, $24.99; two-tier server, $29.99. In stores and online at www.jcpenney.com

FOOD FIGHT: Tired of the cat or dog dish getting kicked, spilling water and food on the kitchen or pantry floor? Here's an innovative solution (with style to boot): The Neater Feeder, a two-part system with non-skid pads and reservoirs to catch spills and splashes. Available in three sizes, $34.99 to $65.98 at PETCO or www.neaterfeeder.com

STYLE MEETS FUNCTION: Move seamlessly from the heat of the kitchen to the thick of the party and back in a hostess apron from Courtney Kivela's Bird-kage collection. Available in bib and skirt styles, the aprons are made from linen and cotton canvas and come in solids, patterns and prints. (Handsome designs for him, too). Featured: "Madison" with sail cloth grommets, $37. Packaged in cotton muslin drawstring bag. Tea towels to match. www.birdkagestyle.com