Another late night by the fire

It is amazing how entertaining the fire can be. Since we put the insert in, sometimes the tv doesn't even get turned on. We just sit and watch the flames dance in the firebox while enjoying an adult beverage or two.

It's hypnotic. The consumption of beer makes it more so.

My TV time has been cut in 1/2 or even less since I started burning this year. (first timer) Now I'll grab an beer or one of my laptop's and sit in front of the fire and float this site instead of watching the tele! I actually have to spend more time in front of the fire because being an unprepared newb, my wood is only about 1/2 seasoned and the burner requires much attention.... not that I'm complaining. I have not turned on my dino-burner once this year... yet. (oil)

I'm actually quite happy about that!

For my open concept house (old Homestead re-modeled) the stove can be seen from basically every aea of the downstairs. The only drawback is that otherthan the bar stools in our kitchen extended counter, there is no other place to actually sit in front of it. i.e. I cant put a couch in front of it etc. Sometimes I move the Adirondack rocker in front but thats only a 1 seater

We spent a good chunk of the weekend splitting some wood, putting away halloween decorations, cleaning up the carriage house (barn), and moving my wife's office area (desk piled high w/ everything) out of the family room and to other areas, where it will be smaller piles spread more evenly - i think of it more as insulation at this point. But the intent is the same - put a couple nice chairs, a coffee table, and some beanbags for everyone to sit near the fire. We have a perimeter fence put up to keep the children safely away, and man are we looking forward to spending some quality time in this room!

I could spend all night in front of the fire. A couple of big boy drinks add to the fun.

life is good isn't it....fine glass of wine ,a hot fire, and a beautiful lady and all of sudden the fact the world is going to hell in a hand basket doesn't seem to bother me that much....well,
I"ll deal with that tommorrow. tonight me and momma and the dogs will just enjoy this fire! stay warm everyone, enjoy what god has given us......WOOD !