Perhaps track lights would work well. Something that can be easily adjusted, so the lights can be focused on the task.

Here is a link that might be useful: Track Lighting Systems, Fixtures, Kits & More

What about dark colored factory pendant lights? Or dark pendants with light glass shades? That way they'd act as a bit of a room divider in combination with the dark stools, to demarc the kitchen area.

I'd hang 2 art glass pendants....I just love art glass...but you need to look at them both with the light on and light off as they will look very different.

After spotting the electrical outlet, I have a slightly strange suggestion: some form of dropped lighting from above for general lighting (pendants/chandeliers/whatever), and then just have 1-2 sturdy adjustable desk lamps that can take being in a kitchen. This is one of the lamps that I have in my bedroom, and the base is quite heavy enough to act as a counterweight for the light even when the arm is fully extended.

Thanks for the suggestions. I am thinking of just going with a basic pendant light, since I can't make up my mind! But even then, should the bar hanging down be black or brushed nickel? We have a fair amount of black, but I don't want too much.

There's this, in either black or brushed nickel:

Is this more of what you mean, Baroo2u?

But then I think I may prefer something that is prettier and a discussion piece. Why can't I just instinctively know what to do? lol

Gyspy-Thanks for the link. I spent several hours on that site checking things out. I still don't know what direction to go though! I'm having a hard time with this one!

Annie-Do you have a picture of what you are thinking of? Sounds interesting and pretty.

pschul05-Good eye to see that outlet. I think a lamp would make me nuts on the counter! Yes, the kids do homework there, but they (and their friends-and there always seem to be extra kids here, which is great!) also eat there and do artwork and hang out and chat. I see a lamp getting knocked over way too easily with the amount of use the island gets. Thanks for the suggestion though.

Just found this one:

I am tending to go towards the burlap look (have added throw pillows, starting to add light blue accents here and there. Plan to change out curtains to white with a little blue. Want to paint walls a creamier color.