Q.It seems like all the lighting options that provide enough light for reading, crosswords, etc are heavy duty, industrial looking fluorescent fixtures. My eyes aren't getting any younger so I need bright light but I would like attractive fixtures and "soft" light if possible. Is it? Thank you.

A. It sounds like you are using overhead lighting (lights in the ceiling) for specific tasks. Overhead lighting is for the purpose of general illumination only.

It may help if you use a task oriented light. Some examples of these are a table style halogen that would have an adjustable arm or a pharmacy style lamp that is able to swing over your project.

Visit a lighting store and you will be surprised at the variety. Lighting just the area that you are working or reading in is the key.