Keep your Cool this Summer with Soleus Air Portable Air Conditioners

June 21st was the official start of summer. As temperatures rise, staying cool seems to be the number one priority on the top of everyone’s list. We sure have come a long way since those early days of air conditioning where in 1889 Alfred R. Wolff designed a ventilation system which used blocks of ice and steam powered blowers to cool down patrons. Essentially the air from the blowers would flow over the blocks of ice cooling the space. Ten years later as the beginning of the modern air conditioner took hold, a refrigeration unit circulated a brine solution through pipes over which air was blown to cool down a room.

Then came Willis Carrier who is widely credited as the inventor of the modern air conditioner. He engineered his “apparatus for treating air” in 1902. It worked by blowing air over a set of coils filled with a coolant. The intent wasn’t to chill the summer air into a pleasant breeze but rather the device was to precisely control the humidity of the air inside.In 1931 H.H. Schultz and J. Q. Sherman invented an individual room air conditioner; the unit would sit on a window ledge, a design that is seen in apartment buildings everywhere, still today. The cost of those first units was staggering which only the wealthy could afford to buy.

Since that time air conditioning units have become more popular and much more affordable. In fact in 1953 more than one million air conditioning units were sold. Residential air conditioners became just another way to keep up with the Joneses! It seemed like everyone owned a unit.

Click to View the Soleus Air 10,000 BTU Window A/C plus Dehumidifier and Fan

I remember in our old house we didn’t have a central air conditioning unit; we had lots of fans; from ceiling fans to oscillating fans that we placed around the house, just for some relief from the summer heat. One day at our local hardware store we noticed a window air conditioning unit. "Ahhhh" we thought, "we can pick this up and place it in the window of or bedroom to cool us down at night."

Once we got it home and installed we were enjoying the sweet comfort of cool air! That was great but what about when we were spending time in other parts of the house? What to do? So we decided to close the doors to all the rooms we were not in and set up an elaborate set of fans to blow the cool air to the rooms that we were using. It worked o.k. but we thought there must be a better way to get cool air to just the rooms we wanted - while not have to cool down the whole house. Thanks to Soleus Air there is! With their portable air conditioning units, now you can cool down just the room you are in and since it’s portable it goes where you go!

Click to View the Soleus Air 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit

So when it comes right down to it, the best way to stay cool in your home and beat the summer heat is with Soleus Air portable air conditioning unit, move it from room to room, no need to cool down space that is not needed, just the space you need. Soleus Air is the #1 portable air conditioner suppliers in the U.S. At Soleus Air, their goal is your comfort in the home or in the office. Under different brand names you have enjoyed and trusted their products for many years. Soleus Air offers the best in quality and innovation, so check out all Soleus Air has to offer in the way of staying cool!

Click to View the Soleus Air 9,000 BTU Thru Wall A/C and Dehumidifier


Soleus offers units that are compact yet powerful; our 12,000 BTU evaporative air conditioner efficiently and quietly cools and dehumidifies to make your environment more comfortable. Evaporative technology allows the unit to recycle the collected moisture so there is no water bucket to empty. A built-in 24 hour timer remembers your settings and will restart the unit even if power is interrupted.


Click to View the Soleus Air 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit

At Soleus Air commercial, their goal is your comfort in the home and office. Contractors and builders know Soleus Air and their quality and dependability.

For those of you who would like a more conventional air conditioner that can be mounted in a window or thru a wall Soleus Air has you covered too by using the same technology that makes their portable room air conditioners #1 and with the same great features!

At Soleus they offer only the best in terms of quality and innovation! And Odyssey Homestore is a proud Authorized Factory Representative of Soleus Air.

Call an Odyssey Homestore® specialist today to learn more about portable air conditioners, fans and heaters. 888-564-4744.

Kent Right Return Bar by American Heritage

Product Information: The Kent Right Return Bar, also known as the Greystone Right Return Home Bar, Catania Right Return Home Bar, or Salem Right Return Wood Home Bar depending on who is selling it, is one of the most beautiful bars available on the market today.



Many describe the Kent Right Return Bar as a “Grand Bar” because it has everything imaginable for the entertaining enthusiast, and makes a striking focal point to your home bar. The bar features:

• a brushed stainless wrap-around footrest
• removable wine storage rack
• a mini fridge / wine cooler bay (just the bay – not the fridge)
• hanging stemware rack for multiple wine glasses
• a drink mixing and cutting ledge
• removable ice storage and bottle wells
• open shelving for ample storage as well as a locking cabinet for added security

What more could you ask for in a bar? It’s about as close to custom as you can get, without the expense of a custom bar. Speaking of which, our partnership with American Heritage means we can also offer custom bars.  

Manufacturing Process: From the five step finishing process to the exquisite craftsmanship, the artisans at American Heritage have really raised the bar and spared no expense in the manufacturing process. The custom select hardwood with a warm chestnut finish, raised molding panels, a black laminate bar top surface and brushed stainless steel accents give this bar an rich, opulent look and feel. The “L” shape of the bar is the reason why this is called a “Right Return” bar. The bartender stands behind the bar with added counter space to their right, which also means there’s plenty of room for drinks and snacks.




Dimensions: This bar is not small. In fact it’s just the opposite. Some of our customers have described it as “Substantial,” “Beefy,” and “Manly – Made for my Man Cave.” Dimensions are: 84” W x 59.5” D x 44” H, Weight: 507 pounds.  

Reviews:
Ships in three boxes. Very little assembly required. Was in perfect condition. It was missing the foot rails, but simply made a phone call to the company, and they shipped them right out. I would for sure recommend this bar. By Sandra S. from Geneva, OH May 23, 2011

Great bar with nice features. Great service & price from Odyssey HS. Reviewed by: Cassie from Middletown, MD. on 2/10/2012

Amazing bar great quality and value. I did granite tile over the existing service to enhance the look and durability. Reviewed by: David Archiello on 4/16/2012 OMG

This is the most awesome bar ever. The finish is great the wood is great we are missing a manual for some of the instructions. They are e-mailing it. Just don't want to put the shelves in incorrectly. A great value for the money. By Steve M., FL Mar 22, 2013  

Shipping: This bar ships directly from the manufacturer via freight in a full-size semi-truck in 3 boxes weighing a total of 522 pounds and the freight company will call you ahead of time to arrange delivery. Expect to have the delivery dropped curbside. You must be there to receive and carefully inspect the packaging. If you detect any damage at delivery, make sure the driver makes note of it. Otherwise, if you get the box inside and there’s some damage, a claim must be submitted and that’s a real pain in the neck (the few instances we’ve had claims, American Heritage has taken care of the customer immediately).

It’s also important to consider having someone available to help you bring these boxes indoors. The heaviest one is 276 pounds and quite bulky so be prepared. Indoor delivery is usually available with the trucking company or you can arrange that with us at the time of purchase. Lead time from the warehouse is generally 2 – 3 days, and delivery times within the Continental U.S. range from 5 – 7 days for freight. Outside of inclement weather, holidays or other unusual circumstances, most of our customers have taken delivery within 7 – 10 business days from the day they ordered it.  

About American Heritage: ARTISAN-CRAFTED American Heritage has been handcrafting heirloom quality billiard tables for close to 20 years. Today they apply their rigorous construction standards to every piece of their game room collections. Over the past two decades, they have worked tirelessly to perfect the construction quality of their American Heritage pieces, doing away with block and bolt construction in favor of the very same 100% wood joinery techniques used in the some of the world's finest handcrafted furniture. They believe that these details make all the difference, and will enable your family to enjoy your American Heritage game room collection for generations to come.

American Heritage furniture is crafted, in its entirety, by the finest of woodworking professionals. And it all begins with top-quality custom hardwoods, hand-selected for their unparalleled strength and distinctive beauty. They source only the finest raw materials to create each piece, while their staff of quality control professionals knit pick over each and every piece of wood, looking to match grain patterns and alternating growth rings to create a perfect union of strength and beauty. It’s their belief that anything constructed with less than the most precise and uncompromising standards doesn’t have a leg to stand on. Their philosophy includes the believe that mortise and tenon fittings are just as important as using corner blocks on seat frames. They also believe that for a piece of furniture to display a spectacular finish it must first be properly prepared. State-of- the-art sanding equipment, built specifically to AHB specifications, ensures the finest application on all of their finishes. They believe that all the little details make a big difference which will enable your family to enjoy your furniture for generations to come.

About Odyssey Homestore We hope you've enjoyed reading about the Kent Right Return Bar. Being one of our top sellers, we've had many people ask for more information and we hope this review helps you with your decision "To Buy or Not to Buy." American Heritage does not sell directly to the public but only through partnerships with reputable companies such as ours. Odyssey Homestore is a factory authorized representative for American Heritage Billiards and enjoys an excellent reputation with them. They treat our customers with the same Legendary Service as we ourselves do.

If you're interested in speaking to an Odyssey Homestore bar specialist, please call (888) 564 - 4744, 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week. Click here to shop for the Kent Right Return Bar or find all American Heritage products by clicking here. If you're a customer who has already purchased the Kent Right Return Bar we'd love to hear from you.

Rustic Furniture: Everything New is Old Again

Today, many people are looking for a way to get “back to nature” right in their own homes. They want a down-home appeal with furniture that is made right here in the U.S.A. Not always easy to find, that’s for sure. But just what is it about Rustic Furniture that so many people are enjoying today?



For one thing, many of people are drawn to furniture that is not only aesthetically appealing but also has a look that makes you want to reach out and touch it. That’s what rustic furniture is all about. Each piece should be handcrafted by a local artisan, not mass produced in a machine shop. And while there are many companies who manufacture rustic furniture, only a few go about it the right way. Starting with the logging process.

Montana Woodworks® logs are harvested in the Kootenai National Forest via a very selective process. Lodge pole pine is chosen due to its superior strength versus weight ratio and because it is generally straighter, thus easier to work with. Skilled woodmen select each tree with an attentive eye toward the quality, straightness and size of each specimen. After felling, each piece is hand carried to the road to ensure that it remains undamaged and that its removal does not scar the landscape. As a measure of their commitment to the environment, Montana Woodworks prohibits the use of heavy equipment in the harvest their logs as the equipment and machinery would damage the surface texture of their products and most importantly, harm the surrounding environment.

Only trees that are “standing dead”, that is, they have died but not fallen, are chosen for their furniture. Conversely, trees that have died and fallen to the ground are not used as they are subject to absorbing moisture. Some discoloration is likely even in logs prepared from standing dead timber. The most prolific form of this discoloration is varying shades of blue. Sometimes referred to as ‘blue pine’ these pieces exhibit unique characteristics often sought by customers. Montana Woodworks prohibits the harvest and use of live trees in their operations as trees that are alive or “green” are subject to warping in the future. Removing standing dead timber from forests greatly reduces the danger of catastrophic firestorms such as those recently witnessed throughout the West. No wildlife habitat is harmed in their operations, as trees large enough to be inhabited are generally too large to be used in their products.

The Preparatory Process
After harvest, the logs are stored until sufficiently dry for use in the building of their furniture. During this drying period, some checking or cracking is likely and expected to occur. This is a natural process; it does not in any way affect the structural integrityLog Peeling of the log or the finished product. The Montana Collection pieces are peeled in a process that removes the outer bark using a very sharp, hand-drawn knife known as a “drawknife”. We choose this method because it gives the finished product an excellent texture and color contrast, whereas mechanical peelers only produce an unattractive, generic texture and little color contrast. During the hand-peeling process, the craftsman also remove some of the inner bark creating a “skip-peeled” texture. The Glacier Country Collection pieces are finished in the unique, one-of-a-kind look reminiscent of the Grand Lodged of the Rockies, circa 1900. First the craftsmen remove all of the outer bark while leaving the inner “cambium: layer behind for texture and contrast. Then the finish is applied in an intensive, eight step professional spraying process that applies stain and lacquer for a beautiful, long lasting finish. For those customers who desire a ‘cleaner’ look, we also offer the option of removing all of the inner bark. This is type of peeling is known as “clean peeled” and incurrs a slight up-charge to cover the additional labor. Clean peeled items are special order items and must be specified at the time of order.

Mortise and Tenon Joinery
Montana Woodworks furniture is assembled using round mortise and tenon joinery. Simple and strong, the mortise and tenon style joint has been used for millennia by woodworkers around the world to join two pieces of wood into a rigid and strong assembly. For the mortise, or the hole, we use a variety of different drill presses and drill bit sizes. For the tenon, or the peg, we use a machine called a “Log Woofer”. This machine works much like a very large pencil sharpener leaving a tapered end or tenon. Carefully sanding each piece of furniture before, during, and after the assembly process to smooth the furniture’s surface and to reduce the risk of gaining splinters is a standard Montana Woodworks® procedure ensuring the highest quality product possible. During the assembly process, we apply a powerful adhesive into the mortise, or the hole, before joining the two pieces. After joining the two pieces, we use wood screws or staples to hold the two pieces firmly together until the adhesive sets. This drying period takes approximately twenty-four hours.



Finishing
After assembly, the items are again sanded and carefully re-inspected. Following the comprehensive inspection, the items are packaged to prevent dust collection and moved into inventory. If ordered by the customer, we varnish the item with a clear lacquer finish or stain and lacquer if ordered in the Glacier Country style. For those who purchase Ready to Finish items, we recommend protecting the original color and texture of your rustic log furniture with a lacquer or water based varnish finish. If left unfinished, the wood will yellow over time. Most hardware stores and do-it-yourself warehouses sell small amounts of lacquer or water-based varnish and the tools necessary to complete the task. We highly recommend the application of two coats of clear lacquer or water based varnish finish to each piece of new Montana Woodworks® furniture; doing so will protect the color and the beauty of the wood for many years.

Why pick Montana Woodworks? They are the single largest and most trusted manufacturer of handcrafted rustic furnishings in the nation. They manufacture all of our log furniture items in our own factory here in Northwestern Montana, U.S.A.

You can buy Montana Woodworks furniture at Odyssey Homestore. They are very knowledgeable about the product and work directly with the manufacturer to ensure you are receiving the highest quality furniture. (888) 564 – 4744

Dream House with a Porch Swing

What does your dream house look like? I'll tell you mine if you tell me yours. It’s a single story home with a wrap-around porch. Need I say more? Plantation style would be my preference, both inside and out, if I had my 'druthers.

I envision myself surrounded by my family and friends on a warm summer afternoon drinking iced tea or lemonade out of frosty glasses, viewing the world from behind the safety of my front porch trellis. The toes of one foot is on the ground, slowly moving the porch swing – just enough to catch an afternoon breeze.

In the winter, I’ll curl up wrapped in one of my crochet afghans sipping a cup of hot cocoa doing nothing more exciting than watching the miniature marshmallows melt, as snow, silent and hush, falls outside my little world. And if I really have my way I’ll be all nice and warm with my Ravenswood Firebowl fired up.

Indulge me please as I imagine just a bit more decorations on my porch. Since it’s snowing, I’ll add just a touch of Christmas, like my favorite: the 3 foot Flocked Alaskan Pine with 100 colorful little lights twinkling merrily as I listen to the bells jingling on the sleighs gliding down our street. (Wait. Is that just a bit too much?)

The inside of my dream home will be decorated plantation style, with gorgeous furniture such as the Trinidad Arm Chair by Padma's Plantation and accent pieces such as the Timeworks Tyrell Wall Clock by Uttermost. To keep it fun, I love whimsical little touches like the 32 in Abayomi Elephant Accent Lamp.

If this is a dream, please wake me gently. Hold on, before I go I need to cover my patio swing so it stays clean all year long out on my porch. Of course, I would choose KoverRoos patio furniture covers. Okay, I've shared my dream. I don't really want to wake up, but I will if you'll share yours.

Call Odyssey Homestore 888-564-4744 if you need help making your dream house become a reality. They have pretty much everything you need, from Porch to Patio and Everything in Between.

Fiber Optic Christmas Trees

And why have they become so popular in the last few years? Before we can explain that, we need to explain what Fiber Optics is, or is that are?

Fiber-optics consist of a bundle of thin glass or plastic strands. This is coated or surrounded in material that allows light to pass through the fibers without escaping out the sides. Signals can pass through them at very high speeds from the point of origin to the destination, with minimal loss in quality or data. Companies use fiber-optics to transmit Internet data, audio information for telephones, and images for television or medical cameras. One little known secret is they also are used for Christmas trees! Basic Function: The concept behind fiber-optics is fairly simple. A user transmits a signal as light, often in the form of a laser beam, through a length of thin strands of glass or plastic. The optical fiber acts as the medium through which the light passes, while a coating on the outside of each strand keeps the light trapped within the fiber. People can send just about any type of digital data through fiber-optics, though conversion for some signals may be necessary.

 History: Alexander Graham Bell, in 1880, demonstrated how light could be used to transfer sounds from one area to another. A few decades later, the first sets of bundled cables were developed, though they were not called "fiber-optics" at the time. In 1956, Narinder Kapany coined the term after bundling a few glass rods together. He then demonstrated that these rods could project light without leaking at any point, as long as they were wrapped or coated in a dark material. By 1960, Dr. Charles Kao realized the potential of fiber-optics. He suggested that they could be used for fast, clear communications. In the 1970s, a company called Corning® Glass created the first optical fiber made entirely of thin strands of glass. This led to Bell Telephone using these fibers to make telephone cables that could transmit crystal clear conversations from one side of the US to the other. Are you bored yet? You shouldn't be! It's amazing really that folks like National Tree took the time to work with a variety of manufacturers to create some of the most stunning artificial fiber optic Christmas Trees in the world!

 Fiber Optic Trees make for great table top accents anywhere in your home. We offer a wide variety of fiber optic Christmas trees, and many come with ornaments already on the tree!. An Fiber Optic Christmas tree has a great looking base, and truly is breathtaking. They have PVC needles and are flame retardant. Use these trees in your entrance way or anywhere you can think of in your home. So, to sum it up. Fiber Optic Christmas trees have colorful lights, but they do not have bulbs like a traditional Christmas tree! The glow of the lights comes through the tips of the tree or bush, and they will create beautiful holiday memories for you and your family. Replacement parts are available so you'll enjoy your tree for many many years. To see the entire line of Fiber Optic Trees, just click here.

One word of caution: These sell out fast every year. By Thanksgiving they're gone! So order yours early and save! Feel free to call our Christmas Tree Specialists at Odyssey Homestore. We offer legendary customer service, sales and support. (888) 564 - 4744

Deco Breeze Fan - One Man's Journey

Most men have a favorite sport or hobby they enjoy, either watching or participating in. Some will go to extreme limits of being a fan by painting their face or decorating their care. Women are often fans of designer clothes, a certain perfume, or shopping for specials. Well I am a fan of fans: Deco Breeze fans to be exact.

For starters, fans can keep rooms 10 to 20 degrees cooler, without using as much electricity as an air conditioner. That saved money! And I'm a huge fan of saving money.

Deco Breeze has a fan for every room in your house or business. Dog fans, cat fans, Farm Animal fans, Safari fans, Beachy fans, Bird fans, Fishing fans and Sporting themed fans are perfect in the kitchen, den, man cave, kid's room or at the office.

Tabletop and standing floor fans are sure to match any decor. Deco Breeze has put the "FUN" in Functional and their popularity is growing!

Odyssey Homestore™ is proud to be an authorized dealer of Deco Breeze fans, and offer them for the lowest possible price (We could get in serious trouble if we offered them any cheaper). Deco Breeze fans are a "Fan"-tastic product, at a "Fan"- tastic price and that's what makes me a Fan of Fans!

How to Get a Man Cave without Pissing Off Your Wife

In the beginning, man used caves to provide shelter. Then women moved in and didn't want to cook outdoors. So man invented the stove.

Women then wanted a place to hanging their cooking sticks. So man invented the kitchen.

Women got tired of hiking to the river to wash clothes, so man invented plumbing.

Women found ways to decorate and basically take over our cave, driving man back outside. It's time we reclaim what was ours to begin with! So man invented the man-cave. A place where fellow hunters, gatherers and sportsmen can gather, drink a cold one, and swap stories, relax and view sporting events. A real man will have the following items in his man cave:

1: Large TV like this 55" Pro-Line SunBrite All Weather TV




2: Home bar like the Cortland Bar made for manly men!



3: Bar stools like the Martinique 360 Degree Full Swivel Bar Stool - the perfect fit for a rich, sophisticated style like ours!
 
4: A/C cooling system like the beefy 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner and Heater with evaporative technology means no water bucket to empty. Perfect for the guy who likes minimal fuss!

5: Sports-themed decorator items like this Duke the Surfing Dog Swivel Tabletop Fan: Man's best friend combined with a cool sport like surfing. Heck! Who cares if you don't surf, this fan makes you look, and feel cool!

So tell you woman you want this man cave in the main living room of your home. (She will reject that idea, but it's part of the plan). So when you suggest the basement or den, she will naturally agree. Now step up men! Your buddies are counting on you!

One final note of advice. Now that we know what we need to do, please get the O.K. from your wife or girlfriend :) If you need help convincing her, don't call me! But feel free to call us at (888) 564 - 4744 if you need help finding any of these or other products for the perfect man cave. Odyssey Homestore. Offering Legendary Service, Products and Support. Sincerely, Odd Blogger

How to Beat the Heat in San Antonio

My wife doesn't always appreciate my sense of humor. We arrived at 1:30 a.m. It was 88 degrees with 84% humidity and at that time of night, the air was silky smooth and cool with a slight gulf breeze. So far, we loved San Antonio. We were there to watch our youngest son graduate from Air Force Boot Camp. We didn't actually get into our hotel room until after 3am, thanks to the nice Hertz Rent-A-Car driver who gave us (bad) directions. After ending up on the wrong side of the base, we stopped at an all night gas station only to find out we should have stayed on the freeway for one more exit. So I got back on the freeway, and quickly realized I was on the wrong freeway going to wrong direction. My wife, bless her, commented that we were now "more lost." In my kindest voice (read sarcasm) I told her you can't be more lost. That's like being a little pregnant. Either you are or you are not. We were not. Lost that is. She pointed out in her nicest (read sarcasm) voice: we should have followed Google Maps.

After a few hours of sleep, we dressed and headed out the door by 7:30 am to see our son run the traditional gauntlet run. It was AWESOME. We knew he would be in the group wearing gold t-shirts which was at the end of the group of over 400 trainees. The crowds cheering and the quick flash of teeth on my son's face when he saw us was priceless. By 8:30 am we were sitting in the stands waiting for the coin ceremony to start. That's when we started feeling the sun. My wife doesn't manage well in the heat, so I knew I had only a short time before, well, let's just say before she had a melt down (I really hope she doesn't read this blog). I found us a grandstand in the shade where we waited. As the day grew longer, we found ourselves seated, standing, walking and breathing in the San Antonio humidity. A few airmen fainted, which reminded me how dangerous heat and humidity can be. So I wanted to write today about a few products that will help in the battle against heat and humidity.

The Soleus Air 10,000 BTU Evaporative Portable A/C / Dehumidifier / Fan is compact yet powerful, especially if you're looking to heat just one room. You can move it from room to room depending on where you'll be. Working on a computer in your office, or enjoying a book in your den, the portable A/C Dehumidifier will keep you cool without running up the electricity bills

Fans can keep a room 10 - 20 degrees cooler. I really like the Deco Breeze fans. They have a huge selection of animal, flower and sporting themed fans. Easy to unplug and cool you down!





There's also this Cabriolet Pool Lounger. This rugged lounge has everything you need for relaxing around the pool this summer. Our Cabriolet lounge features a super heavy duty PVC bladder on the inside with a tough nylon covering on the outside. This inflatable has the feel of a “river raft” that protects the lounge from concrete scrapes and cuts that puncture cheaper inflatables. Your kids can jump on the Cabriolet and drag it across the deck with no ill effects.

Not only is the Cabriolet durable, but it is very comfortable as well. The lounge’s adjustable canopy provides shade when you want it and can be taken off when you don’t. Cabriolet’s fold out foot cushion turns the lounge into a full chaise or it can be folded under for dangling your feet in the water. The integral drink holder provides thirst quenching relief on hot summer days.

Shade or sun? That is the question that only the Colva help you answer. The weave is a UV treated synthetic with a reinforced interior aluminum tube frame. The included cream-colored cushions and 3 (three) throw pillows are made of water resistant covers and foam as is the folding top. The canopy, which is also included, can be kept up for added shade or pulled down to enjoy the sun.

We hope some of these products can keep you in the cool zone. Have a safe 4th of July and a special thanks to all the service men and women for their dedication to duty and commitment to our country.

As for our son, he made us very proud. At the end of our first day there, he was officially an Airman. He was more courteous, more focused and respectful than ever and that's saying a lot because he's always been very courteous and respectful. I know he was really happy to see us despite the fact that we almost, but not quite, damaged his reputation by showing up unexpectedly in a base location that was "supposed" to be off limits to civilians. But that's another story for another time.

Odyssey Homestore

Cool Torches for Warm Nights

Nothing says ambiance in your backyard quite like tiki-torches, especially if budgets are tight and you can't quite afford a fire pit or fire column. They create a festive and tropical feel to any party. Just add a little Caribbean music and salsa the night away. Tiki Torches small and portable and can be brought out for special occasions. Take them to the beach for a beautiful evening next to the waves or to the park for an evening picnic.

Anywhere Cylinder Stainless Steel Tiki Torches	Anywhere Cone Stainless Steel Tiki Torch

When shopping for Tiki Torches, keep in mind you can find them for $5 or $10 bucks in the local home improvement store. But, if you're looking for a wow factor without a big price tag, these Stainless Steel torches are a great price for $39.99.

Feel free to share where you use tiki torches in your home.

Odyssey Homestore (888) 564 - 4744

Make some waves with mom and save $150! You'll be a Splashing Success and mom will have fun all summer long! Great for kids or keeping pets cool too!

Place the Aero Spa anywhere- your backyard, patio, or tote it along in your RV. No time-consuming or costly installation. Simply remove the spa from its box, plug in, press a button, and watch the Aero Spa inflate in minutes! Fill the spa with your garden hose and turn on the filter & heater and you're ready to enjoy your new hot tub! Aero Spa has many quality features.

Super Easy Set Up - Spa Self Inflates in Minutes

Affordable Relaxation at its Best

Features: Self inflates in minutes! Colors: Charcoal / White Massaging Bubble System with 130 Air Jets! Includes filtration pump 900W Thermostatically-Controlled heater – heats to 104° F Completely portable – easily folds for storing or traveling! 3 month warranty on the hot tub, controls & heater Warranty valid in the United States only. Shipping weight = 50 lbs, dimension= 28"x22"x19" Made of durable 40 gauge PVC Vinyl and 19 gauge cloth Comes with 2 filter cartridges - clean or replace cartridges at least every 120 hours Includes repair patch and glue Durable vinyl construction 211 Gallon capacity Seats up to 4 adults Outer diameter 73"; Inner diameter 55" Easy Set-Up, no tools needed! Plugs into 110V outlet, 12 ' power cord included Zippered thermal cover Click here to read more about it. Odyssey Homestore. We're so much more than a patio store. "Porch to Patio and Everything in Between!" (888) 564 - 4744

10 Ways to Keep Air Clean at Home

We know you love the outdoors. We do too! There's nothing like taking a giant lung full of fresh air! It's invigorating. Refreshing. Rejuvenating even. Wouldn't it be nice if the air inside your home could be as clean as the air outdoors? Follow these ten tips below and you'll be well on your way:

1) Avoid wood-burning fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces, as charming and romantic as they are, produce small particles that get into your lungs and make it hard to breathe. Wood-burning fireplaces put out soot and carbon, says Len Horovitz, MD, a pulmonary specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. There's nothing in there that's a good thing for a persons lungs and there's no inhalant that's worse than smoke. Maybe it's time to consider converting your existing wood-burning fireplace into a clean-burning, gel-fueled fireplace with the Real Flame Convert to Gel Log Set below and never worry about hauling wood, messy ashes, or soot again! You'll keep all the charm and romance without the health dangers!

2) Stay away from cigarettes and smokers

Smoking causes about 85% of COPD cases in the United States. We can't stress this enough: you need to stay away from secondhand (or firsthand) smoke. If you're a smoker, it's time to quit! Its no secret that kicking the habit is really, really hard. But if you have COPD and smoke, the stakes are higher than ever before. Quit and you'll prevent further damage; don't and the disease will progress faster.

3) Stop those nasty dust mites

Dust mites are tiny bugs that are too small to see. Every home has dust mites. They feed on human skin flakes and are found in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys and fabric and fabric-covered items. Body parts and droppings from dust mites can trigger asthma in individuals with allergies to dust mites. Exposure to dust mites can cause asthma in children who have not previously exhibited asthma symptoms. According to the EPA, there are several actions you can take to stop those nasty dust mites from your home:

• Wash bedding in hot water once a week. Dry completely.
• Use dust proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Vacuum carpets and furniture every week.
• Choose stuffed toys that you can wash. Wash stuffed toys in hot water. Dry completely before your child plays with the toy.

4) Avoid chemicals

Today's modern home is loaded with toxic and polluting substances designed to make domestic life easier. The cost of these commercial, chemical-based products can be high -- long term health concerns for the family, and environmental pollution caused by their manufacture and disposal. In the US, for example, 1 in 3 people suffer from allergies, asthma, sinusitis or bronchitis (US National Center for Health Statistics). Treatment for these conditions should include reducing synthetic chemicals in the home environment. There are many non-toxic, homemade solutions you can find online, and there is also a growing number of commercial non-toxic home cleaning products are available, as healthier and environmentally responsible alternatives. Your use of these products helps promote the growth of green businesses which are contributing to a sustainable economy.

5) Control pet dander

According to studies published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, scientific journal of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAA&I) up to 10% of the general population and 40% of allergic individuals react to cats and dogs. Allergy to cats is twice as common as allergy to dogs. In most areas of the country approximately 50% of homes will have a dog or cat living indoors. Many of the homes where there is no pet living inside still contain enough dander to cause an allergic reaction. Because pet dander, especially cat dander, is small and sticky it adheres to everything - floors and carpets, walls, furniture, lamp shades, even ceilings. In order to remove it, every part of your home should be vacuumed with a true HEPA vacuum cleaner and hard surfaces should be mopped weekly.

6) Filter your air

Air filters can cut down dramatically on the fine particles that irritate the lungs. Its always better to ventilate through a system that has a filter. You want to filter as many particles as you can. Changing filters often will also help keep the air clean. For the dog days of summer, central air-conditioning is best, but even then, filters make it better. The Sunheat Mountainaire Air Purification System (below) sanitizes your home with highly activated oxygen ions that seek and destroy odors, pollutants and other harmful pathogens in your home.

7) Close your window

Ozone and other forms of air pollution, as well as outdoor allergens and dust, can affect your lungs. This can be especially troublesome if its allergy season, if the winds are howling, or if you live in a place (like New York City or New Mexico) prone to dust accumulation. On high air-pollution days keep the windows closed. You can check air quality throughout the U.S. at AirNow.gov. If you're cleaning, though, you may want to open a window to clear the air of cleaning chemicals, according to the American Lung Association.

8) Exercise but don't over do it

Exercise is good for every body. However, too much exertion can trigger breathing difficulties such as asthma or allergies. You know exercise is good for you, but do you know how good? From boosting your mood to improving your sex life, exercise boosts your energy level, improves mood and combats health conditions and disease. You do want to exercise. Just be sure you know your limits.

9) Fight mold and mildew

Good ventilation systems in both the bedroom and bathroom can cut down on molds, another potential trigger of lung trouble. And because dust mites like humidity too, you should keep the moisture levels in your home unattractively low, at around 40%. To do so, consider using a dehumidifier like Soleus 45 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifer below and don't run a humidifier or vaporizer.

10) Know the deadly three

Some indoor air pollutants can kill. Among the most dangerous are these three:

• Carbon monoxide: 400 die and thousands are sickened annually
• Secondhand smoke: 7,500-15,000 children are hospitalized or sickened with respiratory tract infections, and older adults with cardiovascular or lung illness are at higher risk of health problems
• Radon gas: It's silent. It's odorless. It's found in many American homes, and it is the second biggest cause of lung cancer, after cigarette smoke

Carbon monoxide poisoning claims the lives of over 400 people each year and thousands of others become ill or seek medical attention after exposure to the odorless gas. Sometimes the early symptoms resemble the flu, but look for these differences: if more than one family member has symptoms -- even your pets -- and you feel better away from home, you may have a carbon monoxide problem. Carbon monoxide levels can rise very quickly in unventilated areas without anyone noticing the colorless, odorless, toxic gas.

Protect yourself by installing a carbon monoxide detector near your sleeping rooms. Also have all fuel burning appliances inspected by a qualified technician once a year to keep the deadly gas away from your home.

We are passionate about all things home! From "Porch to Patio and Everything in Between" includes cleaning tips and ideas too!

Coffee on the Patio

There is not a time of year that I don’t enjoy a good cup of coffee on the patio. Whether it’s a mid-winter morning cuppa with my shoulders wrapped in a shawl and my hands wrapped around a warm mug; or a later afternoon summer laté with a frothy, creamy foam; the two main ingredients you need is good coffee and a comfortable lounge chair. We’re always on the lookout for a great cup of coffee, one that we can make at home because we’re definitely not into going to the corner coffee store every day!We like to save our money for more important things!



Our favorite new find is Seattle’s Best - Level 5! It is seriously the very best coffee you can make at home. It’s bold, dark and intense without any bitterness, and as smooth as silk with or without creamer. I think the only coffee I’ve ever tasted that can even compare is the Kona Peaberry coffee from the Pele Plantation on the Big Island. Buyer beware, Seattle’s Best Level 5 is a bit pricey (as is Kona Peaberry) and hard to find, so if you see it on sale, stock up!

I was in Tennessee this past September to visit my son and daughter-in-love and grand angels. The weather was unusually perfect, which apparently only happens a couple of times a year in that part of the country. I started each day in the balmy 78 degree morning air, and enjoyed a cup of coffee or two while sitting out on the front porch on the most comfortable teak lounge chairs! They had aged to a spectacular silvery gray and had deep cushions and a headrest pillow. A teak side table was conveniently set between each chair so I could put my coffee down each time one of the little ones came over for a hug or snuggle. Those mornings, I was definitely in my happy place.

I especially liked the country-style living which includes large front yards where the kids and dogs can romp, and neighbors rode by on their bikes and waved to me … something I’m definitely not used to!

For me, it’s all about carving out a few moments of time and creating memories that will last a forever. If I can do it with a cup of coffee in an environment that invites comfort, so much the better. Coffee on the Patio - it has a certain ring to it, don't you think?

Click here to shop for the highest quality Teak furniture on the market, or give us a call at (888) 564 – 4744. We’re all about helping our customers find just the item that will help you create lifetime memories.

Tips for Dramatic Outdoor Decorating

Stumped for ideas on how to create drama on your porch, deck or patio? Check out these super suggestions and start getting inspired today!

If you're like us, when the weather turns nice you head outdoors, thoroughly tired of the cold winter months. We can't wait for Spring! So if you're looking to create a little drama, there's no need to buy all new furniture! Pick up a couple of unique pieces (like those below), a new indoor/ourdoor rug and maybe a lamp and you've got yourself an fresh new outdoor room.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Experience unique style combined with comfort in the Urban Balance Cove. The unique design on this Urban Balance Cove Hanging Chair allows you to curl up, get comfortable and relax. The beautiful and contemporary design enhances any outdoor setting, but it would work just as well indoors in the living room or bedroom. Great for kids and teens too. This chair makes a dramatic statement and is super comfortable too!

For double the fun, try the Urban Balance Expanse Hanging Chair for Two. Get out and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air on your deck or patio in the Urban Balance Expanse. The gentle contours of this unique chair make relaxing a breeze! Not only is this unique, it's also a great place to curl up for a late afternoon cat-nap.

What modern outdoor retreat is complete without a hammock? The Urban Balance Wave gives unique design to the traditional hanging hammock. This form fitting hammock is made for your ultimate comfort. Step 1: Grab a good book. Step 2: Fill up an ice cold glass of lemonade. Step 3: Doze in the shade. Ahhh! Life just doesn't get any better than this! Talk about drama!

Aside from adding one or two unique pieces of furniture, don't forget to add just a few accessories. One thing that most people forget about is the rug. It can be used to cover up unsightly patches in the cement, or add just the right accent to finish the room. We suggest these Indoor/Outdoor Egyptian Cotton rugs. Super easy to clean, and when the season turns chilly, you can bring it back inside, making this an accent that can be used all year long!

We have one last suggestion - one that will work for you all year long as well. You need a lamp and on occasion when the summer air turns cool, a little bit of heat wouldn't hurt either. Take a look at the 34" Northgate Electric Tabletop Lamp that emits soft waves of heat up to 12' in diameter. This heater uses a standard electrical outlet and is great for patios, decks, porches and businesses. In the winter you can bring it inside and use it as a side lamp and stay cozy and warm, making this lamp one of the most versatile pieces you will own.

There's no need to obsess over the details, a few added pieces will make all the difference and create the "WOW" factor that you're looking for.

Please feel free to give us a call if you have any outdoor decorating questions. We offer complimentary consultation services for your indoor or outdoor decorating needs. After all, we do promise "Legendary Service" to each and every one of our customers. For more information, go to Odyssey Homestore® or call (888) 564 - 4744. We also offer live chat 7 days a week. We'd love to hear from you!

Cute Christmas Craft Ideas

Although it isn't exactly related to what we do, we are all about family. And what better time for family then Christmas? Our nieces, nephews and grandkids will be coming for a visit, and we are always looking for ways to keep them happy and occupied. So we went in search of a few websites and blogs that had good craft ideas.

Here's just a few we found. The Santa Hat or Tree Topper would make a great craft that'll take more than a few minutes and they'll enjoy the results of their efforts if you use this cute little craft as a tree topper like we plan to. (You can find the directions at www.enchantedlearning.com)








I think this tree offers endless possibilities! If your child has a short attention span, this would be great because it involves a little cutting a gluing. If you have an older or more adventurous child, you could have them decorate this with little strings of beads, glitter glue or anything that appeals to their creativity. (You can find the directions at www.craftideas.com).






 

And what craft project would be complete without a Reindeer! This one is adorable because it uses your child's hand and footprint. When you've finished decorating it, be sure to date it on the back so you'll know just "how big" your little darling was! You can find the directions by clicking here. Thanks HogWild!


This is one my granddaughter brought home to me last year. I don't have the directions, but it looks pretty easy to figure out: Paint a clothes pin white, add some glittery paper or have them glue and glitter some white tissue paper, add the little triangle of white material for the angel dress, and cut out their face and glue it with a halo made of glittery pipe cleaner.





This is a picture of some of the many notes she writes to me that I keep on my fridge. If you have any cute and simple craft ideas for kids, please feel free to share them. We love to hear from our friends and customers!


















Merry Christmas from the Odyssey Team! (888)564-4744