WINDFALLS

PARROT PATTER

Polly wants more than a cracker. She wants to have a little chat with you. And when you play with this brilliantly plumed stuffed parrot (named Tweeter), you’ll be only too happy to oblige. Inside, Tweeter has a battery-operated, sound-sensitive computer that enables her to respond when you say something. But she’s not just all talk: Clap at her, and she’ll whistle back; whistle at her, and she’ll sing you a song. Tweeter is one of three Chatter Animals (the others are Gabby Gorilla and Woofer Dog) for ages 3 and up. $55 at Noah’s Ark, 211 NorthPark Center, 692-9206; and 1100 Col-lin Creek Mall, Piano, 423-5761. Mon-Sat 10-9.



MYSTICAL TIMEKEEPER

The early Egyptians believed that the pyramids had mystical powers. Even if you don’t believe the ancient lore, at the very least, this sleekly minimal pyramid clock will do wonders for your living-room decor. The clock base is black metal with hands in each of the primary colors. $50 at Arresta, 3900 Cedar Springs Rd., 528-3380. Mon-Sat 10-10, Sun 12-6.

PICTURE PROTECTOR

Now, neither rain nor sleet nor snow can prevent you from taking great pictures. CameraShield, a clear vinyl pouch for 35mm auto-focus cameras, protects your equipment from water, dust and sand. Use it now to record swimming or boating activities, or capture skiing stunts or winter’s first snowman later this year. The CameraShield, made by Sima, comes with a removable clear disc that protects the lens. And there’s room in the pouch for an extra roll of film. $15. The Camera Store, 13321 Montfort, 2334385, Mon-Sat 9-6; and Super Tex Cameras, 401 Hillside Village, 827-6036, Mon-Wed & Fri 9:30-6, Thur 9:30-8, Sat 9:30-5.



STUDY AID

If your study skills aren’t what they should (or could) be, consider attending the two-hour A+ Seminar on September 5 or September 11 at the R.L. Thornton Alumni Center at SMU. The goal of the seminar is to help students maximize their study time through better organization. Specifically, students are taught how to organize a notebook, take lecture notes, prepare for tests and budget their time. Although the seminar is open to all age groups, it is particularly recommended for junior high students. Cost is $50 per student (the price includes the Student Organizer notebook); and parents are encouraged to attend. For more information and reservations, contact Mary Flo Ridley of the A+ Seminar, 361-9619.

STAMPED IN STONE

Horses are among the most beautiful and useful of animals, and this hand-carved stone one is no exception. The horse forms the base of a Chinese seal (called a chop) to stamp letters and other documents. You can choose a Chinese character that expresses your goals or desires, such as “happiness,” “success and wealth” or “long life.” Or you can make it even more personal: Have your name or title (in Chinese or Roman lettering) carved on it. In addition to the horse, there are five other chops to choose from; each is accompanied by a hand-carved stone ink pad and comes in a handsome silk box. Whatever you decide, the chop is sure to help you make the right impression. $79 at William Ernest Brown, the Galleria, Suite 1315, 392-1600. Mon-Fri 10-9, Sat 10-7.