It really doesn't take that much to jazz up the serving routine when it comes to dinner. A bit of imagination and a little extra effort can make a typical ho-hum meal memorable.

Let's start with setting the table. One simple idea is to vary the arrangement of the flatware. It doesn't always have to sit at the sides of the plate. Why not place it in the center of the plate, or sit them inside a tall drinking glass (placed at each setting). Or place them inside a folded napkin. Have fun with this idea - simple changes make a set table more interesting.

And think about bringing out the heirlooms. Things ought to be used, not just taking up space, so put them to work at your table. They add warmth, enchantment, and a chi-chi factor that the everyday serving pieces don't. Do you collect white hobnail milk glass? Why not serve your salad in it, for instance?

Don't overlook candles. Why use them just at holidays or for Sunday dinners? Lighting a candle slows time down and it says "You are special and time with you is special." Our dinner table has lit candles several times a week, whether we're eating tomato soup and toasted cheese sandwiches or roasted chicken with all the trimmings. I like to cluster inexpensive glass and crystal candle holders of varying heights. There's something magical about eating to candle-light!

Consider using your serving pieces in new ways. For instance, serve soup in teacups with saucers. Or serve pudding from a soup terrine. Or create individual pudding cups - use egg cups or hollowed-out orange rinds. Roll paper plates into a cone, hold in place with a staple, and fill with French fries, chips, grapes, etc. Set a cone at each place setting. Put desserts in wineglasses, wine in short juice glasses, and hot chocolate in small bowls (very French). You get the idea.

Even if your evening meal is nothing more than take-out this or that, it can be served in pretty or fun dishes. Dishing up take-out food from serving dishes is a sure antidote to the "rush-rush" that take-out tends to carry with it.

And for picnics, I've just discovered the tiffin tin - that wonderful Indian stackable lunchbox, usually 3-tiered, stainless steel, and reusable forever. This is a pretty and practical alternative to the typical plastic take-alongs we usually use.

Finally, fancy-up your water. All it takes is a lovely serving pitcher and some mint leaves, cucumber slices, or wedges of citrus. These simple touches can all-of-sudden turn blase tap water into delightful spa water!

Whether it's just you, you and your partner, or you and a crowd to the table tonight, add some thoughtful and creative touches along with your love and see how much fun it is to jazz up that typical serving routine!