BACKPACK FOR BABES
At a loss as to how to help youngsters stay organized? Ease the load of your little ones by giving them a nylon knapsack, handmade by the craftsmen at Palomino Packs in a sturdy edition specially sized for kids. Children will love organizing their supplies inside the colorful appliquéd pockets-lost lunch bags, forgotten books and misplaced mittens will all become things of the past. A tangible way to convey your support, this little backpack will transport your kids through the rest of the school year without having to carry more than they can bear. They’re $20.95 at Rootabaga Bookery, 6717 Snider Plaza. Mon-Sat 10-5. 361-8581.
WHET YOUR WHISTLE
Lauren Bacall said it first: “If you want me, just whistle.” You can play cupid this year with a wholehearted valentine that’s sure to take your lover’s breath away: a ceramic whistle created by artist Chris Moses. This whimsical gift is bound to result in good vibrations: Try tooting a love song. Or blowing in his ear. Or whistling in the dark. One thing’s certain: It’s a blast! It’s $25 at Heartsong Gallery, 2706 Boll. Mon-Sat 10-4. 824-8088.
HAVE A HEART
If she’s already got your heart, try spicing up Valentine’s Day by giving her this heart-a Lucite charm imported from Austria that’s garnished with a nosegay of fabric flowers and spices. Folklore has it that these fragrant substances also season the essence of life: Clove and nutmeg are said to banish grief and trouble; laurel and pepper shrub flavor “sweet wedlock” at home. Whether she hangs it in a bedroom window, decorates a kitchen corner or wears it around her neck, giving your sweetheart this everlasting ornament will make your intentions crystal clear. Ornaments are $10.90 at Mille Fleurs, 5100 Belt Line in Sako-witz Village. Mon-Sat 10-7. 960-1021.
GOOD LOOKING
Who says that love is blind? It certainly won’t be when you present him with a pair of these binocular glasses. If his outside passions include watching sports events, going to concerts or playing in the field, he’ll be starry-eyed over the convenience of close-up observation without lifting a hand. From Brookstone, the “Hawk-eyes” binocular glasses have lenses that magnify nearly three times but are lightweight (2 1/2 ounces) and are adjustable for comfort. Quite a spectacle, these are sure to give him (or her) a whole new perspective.Glasses are $34.95 at Brookstone, 2251 Valley View Center. Mon-Sat 10-9. 788-0514.
IT’S A GEM
Dallas can boast of Diamond Jim’s, but something new is popping up all over-Diamond Jacks, a rich popcorn/nut candy with a prize inside the package that’s bound to make her sparkle: a genuine sapphire, ruby or emerald chip of five to 12 points. Are you lucky in love? You may be lucky in other settings, too: In one of every 2,000 boxes of Diamond Jacks, the manufacturers have placed a certificate for a diamond worth a sweet $1,000. A delicious (and different) idea for Valentine’s Day, now you can butter her up-for peanuts! It’s $14.50 at Le Delice, 5100 Belt Line in Sakowitz Village. Mon-Sat 10-7. 239-2212.
Related Articles
Arts & Entertainment
DIFF Preview: How the Death of Its Subject Caused a Dallas Documentary to Shift Gears
Michael Rowley’s Racing Mister Fahrenheit, about the late Dallas businessman Bobby Haas, will premiere during the eight-day Dallas International Film Festival.
Commercial Real Estate
What’s Behind DFW’s Outpatient Building Squeeze?
High costs and high demand have tenants looking in increasingly creative places.
