A Shared Love of Books

My niece and I have always had a connection. When she was really little, it was easy -- Strawberry Shortcake dolls, my old magic set, our shared love of musicals. Now that she's 10, she is wonderfully independent and a little harder to read. When she told me she had just devoured the first two Twilight books, I jumped at the chance to read them. I then did what any loving aunt would do ... I bought her the third Twilight book.

It is so fun to have this common story, our own inside conversation. I'm on the first book ... and can't put it down. When I found out the main character Bella loves Jane Austin books, I was so excited. What a nice literary role model for my niece. However, that's where Bella's sense and sensibility ends. I don't want my sweet niece hanging out with bad boys or vampires. Though, Edward does seem like alot of fun!

And, of course, my niece reads by the light of her own OttLite lamp. I have the suspicion that it's on 'til the wee hours of the morn illuminating Bella and Edward. Maybe after she finishes the series, her OttLite will light up the fiery romance of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy.

- Jessica

The Happy Minimalist Enjoys Life with OttLite

If you're looking for a unique Father's Day present, check out this book by Peter Lawrence -- The Happy Minimalist. It's one of those books that really makes you think about life and what is important. Peter talks about how to live simply without feeling deprived. The book is practical and inspirational at the same time.

And what does the man who lives so minimally have? An OttLite! He's had it since 1997. One of Peter's tips is to "slay the energy vampires" by reducing electricity costs, turning off appliances and switching to energy efficient lighting. Here's what Peter says about OttLite ...

"I have a portable lamp that I use when I read. I bought that lamp in 1997 and have yet to replace the bulb. It is not only better for your eyes, it also saves energy."

Visit Peter's website to buy the book. Pair it with an OttLite Task lamp for a minimalist present that will get maximum appreciation from dad!

New Craft Blog Speaks from the Heart

Check out this new blog from craft design expert Kathy Peterson and health expert Barb Dehn, RN, NP. Craft for Health is all about the healing power of crafting. Kathy said she's had stories pouring in from all over from readers who have turned to crafting to work through grief, pain, stress and more.

There is such a healing power with crafting. When my grandmother passed away, I picked up a cross stitch needle for the first time and stitched my way out of grief. I felt connected with her somehow, by doing something she loved. Then sharing those pieces with my newborn niece and nephew really continued the circle for me.

Now that I have kids of my own, I plan to pass this tradition on to them. Crafting teaches us appreciation for creating something with our hands. In our instant-gratification society, I want my kids to learn patience and that good things take time and effort. That’s what my grandmother taught me in everything she said and did.

At OttLite, we've captured stories about the Power of Creativity in a video series. These teachers and artists share how creativity has changed their lives and the lives of their students. Crafting is powerful and healing all at the same time. Please share your stories with us!

I Love My OttLite!!!

My favorite part of going to a trade show or event is when someone sees my OttLite shirt and says, "I LOVE my OttLite!" I just smile from ear to ear!! So, we decided to capture all these incredible stories of how OttLite has helped people enjoy what they do even more.

Take a look at these fun videos from the gang at Keep Me In Stitches in Tampa, Florida. This place is so cool -- filled with color, great fabrics and flooded with OttLite lighting in the overheads. It's like walking into the sunshine :-)

We would love to hear your OttLite story. Please send us your video or an e-mail today!