Seattle Press on Line - Alternative Valentine's Day Gifts

Valentine's Day

Alternative Valentine's Day Gifts

By Erika Ahlstrom

Feb 08, 2001 -- As the celebrated (and much-dreaded) date slinks closer and closer, committed men and women--as well as those hoping to court that intriguing co-worker or hot bike courier--face the question: What will I get my sweetheart for Valentine's Day?

Flowers? Candy? Stuffed animals? These are gifts fit for a hospital ward. This year show some creativity, and dazzle your darling with an original gift that actually means something.

Wish for Love: The Daruma

A Japanese good luck doll, available at Uwajimaya, 519 6th Ave. S.
Price: From $14.95 to more than $80, depending on size.

Legend holds that thousands of years ago a monk sat facing the wall in meditation for eight days, until he became a saint. In his honor, the Daruma--an exquisitely painted doll head--originated as a good luck symbol in Japanese culture. Graced recipients of a Daruma--its magic is only valid when given as a gift--make a wish or set a goal, then paint in the left eye. It's not uncommon to wish for love. When the wish comes true, the owner paints in the other eye to complete the Daruma as a manifestation of good fortune. With a little luck, the Daruma spirit will call upon you to expedite the fulfillment of your beloved's romantic wish.

Dispensing Romance: PEZ dispensers

Available at most drug and toy stores; peruse more than 50 varieties at Rialto Movie Art, 81 S Washington St.
Price: $1.25 for commonplace favorites; up to $10,000 for rare or discontinued models of these plastic jewels.

The mark of a true companion is the ability to pick his or her mate's befitting PEZ dispenser. The right pick from more than 200 varieties may not be an easy feat: will it be Mickey or Donald Duck? The Clown or the Snowman? Luke Skywalker or Darth Vader? Your special PEZ may hold numerous implications, so choose carefully--the final selection should reflect your heartthrob's personality, or the way you feel about him/her.

The ultimate romantic dispensers? The Bride and Groom PEZ pair. This straight-from-the-heart offering calls for a sanity check and a healthy wallet: Expect to pay at least $4,000 for this discontinued duo.

Public Display of Affection: Dance Lessons

Pre-paid packages are available from various studios and independent instructors: Cuban-style salsa at Calle Ocho, Seattle (425) 269-4625; ballroom, swing and salsa at Orion Ballroom, Kirkland (425) 893-9337, and Pacific Dance Center, Bellevue (425) 688-1010.

The basic requirements for transforming you and your flame into an electric dancing pair include a saucy disposition, a bit of soul and the desire to touch each other. And lessons. Contrive a good excuse for sultry full-body contact by perfecting the Rumba, the "dance of love." Or master traditional forms of courtship cavorting with the waltz or quick-step. Either way, dance lessons with your valentine ensure an extra hour or two per week of intimacy set to music, and an artistic excuse to publicly display your affection.

Happy Valentine's Day.

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