The Lighter Side : Blog!

Brighten Up The Office

I had a late dinner with friends the other night and we started talking about the economy, our jobs and how it seems like everyone's working a little harder these days. One of my friends suggested that I write a blog about fun and whimsical gifts that brighten up the office. Since I have all sorts of do0-dads on my desk that make me smile and lighten up my day, I thought it was a great idea!

One of my favorite desktop pieces is this mood lamp. The cylinder is full of sparkling crystals that refract light as the lamp cycles through a rainbow of colors. With the changing hues and the rising bubbles, it's very soothing to watch. Sometimes when I take a moment to think about what I'm working on, I watch the movement of color and bubbles inside the lamp. Even a short "brain break" like that helps me get my thoughts together and get re-focused.

But sometimes you might need something a little less soothing, you might need a more active method to relieve stress. With this desktop punching bag, you can knock out your frustration without leaving your desk. A powerful suction cup holds the spring-mounted punching bag in place while you pound on it. It even has sound effects like cheering and applause to egg you on!

For some people, just fantasizing about winning the lottery is a great way to break up the day, while providing a bit of stress relief. Our talking lottery number picker has got your numbers! Choose from five popular games -- Pick 3, Pick 4, Mega Millions, Powerball or Lotto. Just push the "Play" button and he'll announce your lucky lottery numbers. (Make sure you let us know if this works for you!)

On the practical side of lightening up at the office, this water clock is both interesting and useful. It gets its energy from chemical electrolytes found in everyday liquids. You can power it with water, fruit juices, soft drinks, tea, coffee or even beer! (Note: We don't recommend using beer at the office.) You just fill the plastic fuel cells on back and it starts to work. Since it's safe and pollution free, it makes a great, environmentally friendly green gift. Plus, it's useful, it's a conversation piece and with its sleek styling, it looks good in any office.

Finally, back to the whimsical for a look at my current favorite desktop toy. Even though I'm the "gift guru," I love to receive presents, too. I got this from a friend of mine a few weeks ago. The card said, "Just Because," which I think is one of the best reasons to give or receive a gift. This Kung-Fu fighting baby cracks me up all day long. It gives a mighty karate shout and, with hands at the ready, kicks furiously while the original version of the song "Everybody Was Kung-Fu Fighting" plays. The best part is that this little guy is motion activated. Whenever someone comes close enough to my desk, I get to watch them jump as he hollers "High-YA!" and shows his fierce karate moves.

I hope these useful and whimsical office toys inspire you to find the perfect gift for that special someone in your life who has been working extra hard. After all, sometimes everyone deserves a little reward "Just Because."

Your "Lighten Up At The Office" Gift Guru,
Linda

Posted by Linda at  | Friday, July 24, 2009