When Kalon Studios’s Hut-Hut, a modern interpretation of the rocking horse, crossed our path last spring, we oohed, we ahhed, and then we sighed. The $870 price tag meant no way, no how, not in our house.

Which is why we screamed, “Yes!” when we spied the new version (pictured) for a much more affordable $125.

Fashioned from recycled resin in brilliant playroom-ready colors (red, yellow, green, blue, pink), it has the same unique shape (we’d describe it as a cross between a saddle, stool, and balance board) and charming star-patterned seat as its solid-wood older sib.

The most obvious difference (besides the price) is the weight. The resin Hut-Hut weighs in at a manageable five pounds, which we find less worrisome (watch out little fingers!) than the heavier version. It’s got more giddyap all around.

Preorder online at kalonstudios.com. Shipping starts December 15.

PRIMP
Cinderella Spa Soiree
What: Join your tiny dancer for a polish change and sweet treats to fete Texas Ballet Theater’s Cinderella production.
Why: Strains of Prokofiev may inspire a pirouette or two.
When: Tues., 4-6 p.m.
Where: V Spa at the Hilton Anatole, 2201 Stemmons Fwy. Reservations (recommended) to 214-761-7800. Adults and teens, $25; under 13, free.

BOO
Lake Worth Monster Bash
What: Learn lore about the legendary monster, make crafts, and play games.
Why: Brave kiddos get up close with live gators.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth (817-392-7410). Adults, $4; children, $2; under 3, free.

LEND A HAND
Slant 45
What: Kids ages 6-11 are invited to collect blankets, towels, pet toys, cat litter, and dog food to donate to the SPCA this weekend, or bake treats for shelter animals to donate later this month.
Why: Your good deeds go a long way for pups and kitties who have it rough.
When: Supplies donations, Sat., noon-4 p.m.; treats donation, Oct. 23.
Where: SPCA of Texas Dealey Animal Care Center, 362 Riverfront Blvd. (214-742-7722); SPCA of Texas Perry Animal Care Center, 8411 Stacy Rd., McKinney (214-742-7722). For more info, call 214-461-1819 or e-mail lliendo@spca.org. Register online at spca.org. Participation is free.

Photo: Courtesy of Kalon Studios