1. The answers to the clues below will have something in common:

Hansel and Gretel's flawed plan
Futile quest
"Getting warmer"
How some vanish

2. The answers to the clues below will have something in common:

Mom or Dad, but not both
School yard challenge
Horse racing's ultimate achievement
Marge's TV mate

Answers:

1)
Breadcrumb trail
Wild goose chase
On the right track
Without a trace

2)
Single parent
Double dare
Triple Crown
Homer Simpson

Credits: 
Both: LA Times Crossword
          Barry Silk
#1: Oct. 6, 2008
#2: Nov. 11, 2008
HITS FOR THE CYCLE