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

Surprise and Amaze with Gifts for Even the Hard to Please ...

We believe in surprises. Big ones! Eye-popping ones! Perfect Ones!

Whatever the size, every gift should amaze. So without further ado, below is our Twelve Days of Christmas favorite things; gifts for even the hardest to please.

 

12 Days of Christmas - a Few of Our Favorite Things ...

	Anyone can give a gift. Yours can speak! Give them the gift that will speak to their heart strings, like the Cast Iron Boot Scraper. Beautiful as well as durable, strong enough for indoor or outdoor use, a gift for the dog lover will be appreciated for many years!
	Crank up the heat with this Hand Carved Bellow. Dark stain with beautiful scroll work, building a fire has never been easier. Classic. Timeless. Thoughtful.
	Don't let too much time pass without reminding them how much their love has meant with a 23" Regency Villa Tesio Pendulum Wall Clock. Handcrafted, beautiful and functional.
	'Tis the season to let the magic, and the water, flow. A brilliant marriage of classic and contemporary, the Adelle Fountain provides the dramatic flourish your garden has been waiting for. Useful all year long; spend a cool evening cuddling under a blanket, or enjoy the stars in the summer.
	For the little darling of your lives, the Kiddie-Up Rock-A-My-Baby Rocking Horse pulls on the heartstrings when you rock with Rock a Bye Baby. The little cradle in the back will rock her and her baby!
	For the special little guy in your life, the Rock-it Spaceship Rocker has an out of this world design featuring spinning plants, stars, and a photo frame. A tiny space shuttle moves back and forth as the child rocks and the sound of a rocket blasting off when the joystick moves! So adorable!
	Give smart gifts like the Original Sunheat Room Heater, which provides comfortable, even heat and warms up the cold spots of the room with the latest infrared technology. It keeps the room warm long after its been turned off!
	For the perfect gift for your four legged friend, The Tajo Leopard and Leather Pet Bed is as luxurious as it gets. From the black and gold leopard print buckle to the hardwood sofa frame, your pet baby will rest in style. Certainly not the least expensive pet bed on the market, not by far, but if your pet deserves to live in the lap of luxury, this is for you.
	Think ahead on your wish list and be part of the solution with Eco Friendly Patio Furniture. One of our favorites is this Siesta Rocking Bench for two. Light enough to move from indoors to out, available in your choices of colors and sizes, this bench looks great on the front porch while youre sipping ice tea and reading a good book, or just cuddling up watching fireflies.
	If summertime is your season, the Royal Teak Miami Deep Seating Relax and Chill 5-pc Patio Set will last as long as your love. Elegantly functional and gracefully lined early 19th century English garden style inspires the classic design of our teakwood furniture, perfectly suited for the most casual to the most sophisticated decor. The best teak available on the market today.
	If wintertime is your favorite time of the year, The Ashley Indoor Fireplace will add warmth and ambiance to any room in the house. Vent-free, the heat comes from environmentally-friendly Gel Fuel, which crackles and pops and creates yellow, orange and red flames just like a real fire It puts off a warmth thatll make you want to put a bear rug down in front and enjoy a good martini!
	Be the light of their life with a Concord Floor or Table Lamp for either indoors or out. As versatile as it is beautiful, this weatherproof and portable lamp has an unbreakable poly carbonate waterproof light bulb enclosure, and the shade comes in your choice of 27 beautiful and contemporary Sunbrella fabric, with a two-level dimming switch to set just the right mood.

 

The beauty of a Christmas gift

Cannot be seen at all.

For the loveliness of giving

Is a feeling, grand and tall.

 

If you've found any of our gift ideas useful and decided to make a purchase, please feel free take a picture of their surprise and email to us here. We love to show our customers enjoying our products!

Happy Holidays from our Home to Yours

Odyssey Homestore®

(888-564-4744)