The Joy of Fire

Who doesn't love a fire?

Whenever friends or family know we are heading to the farm, in this winter season there is always the question of whether this will involve getting our combustion heater cranked up and pumping. I'm always so thankful to answer a big fat yes!

How good is the fire?

We did a whole lot of homework before we purchased ours, trying to find the best one to heat the size of our home. I am so thrilled with our choice because it keeps our whole place toasty warm - with some great added benefits! The top section also boils our kettle on an ongoing basis, as well as quickly heating pans for cooking eggs or pancakes. What a bonus! Yes, it may be a simple pleasure but it's great to be able to use the fireplace for these simple, homely tasks.

There is, of course, some work involved in having a fire, not least of which is the need for firewood.

We are blessed to have quite a bit of fall on the uncleared portion of Bountiful, so we've had the chance to clear up some of it and turn it into logs for the fire. The wood has to 'season' - a fancy word for dry out so it will burn better - so once we've cut it to size, we stack it in the shed to be used the following winter.

Just as a garden of veges and fruit can provide food, the bush when managed with some forward planning can also keep us warm and cosy when we keep on top of it, and prepare its offerings well.

As I have often said, songs get into your head and provide an ongoing soundtrack for most things we do. Whenever we need more wood for the fire, we can often be caught singing Bill and Boyd's Put Another Log on the Fire. 

Tracey 🔥

With thanks to The New Zealand Music Channel