Keep your power cords -- and your sanity! -- in check by using the cardboard from paper towel or toilet paper rolls to organize all your electronics' cords. To make a "cord minder" for each of your gadgets, follow these steps:

1. cut a piece of cardboard tube to size
2. cut a notch at each end to "hold" the ends (USB head or plug)
3. stuff the cord inside the tube, leaving the ends wedged into the notches (add a rubber band for more security)
4. mark each tube's contents and place all cords in a plastic bag

When you arrive at your destination, grab the tubes you need and leave the rest in the bag. Rather than having numerous power cords draped around the room, the cords will be contained neatly in the tubes.

Bonus: if you see a toilet paper tube when packing to leave, it's probably yours. [Photo: Flickr | Andres Rueda]

A favorite stuffed toy can be an excellent way to create an inexpensive and creative souvenir for your child.

Everywhere you go with your child, be sure to take a picture of your child and the toy doing something fun (making faces, pretending to run away, etc.). Make sure you get a good view of the sight in the picture as well.

Then, when you get home, combine these images into a storybook and use your imagination to create a storyline. Don't forget to include a 'blooper' page for pictures that did not make the 'final cut'.

We go on vacation to be someplace different. Yet many people eat the same old foods on vacation as they eat at home. On your next vacation, challenge your family to a food "dare" contest. Here's how:

• Go to a local marketplace or anywhere serving local foods.
• Ask each member of the family to find one food for everyone to try.
• Pick an outside area for a picnic and be sure to photograph the foods and the faces.
• Whoever picks the best food item, wins!

The meal might not be tasty or balanced but it's sure to be memorable.