Starting a fire is harder than I thought. I can do all the right things with kindling and fire starter, but if the wood isn’t perfectly dry it takes a while to ignite.
I have read that keeping a kettle on your stove helps keep moisture in the air, so I’m doing that. My house is still super dry and the static electricity has been insane. I mean like actual sparks when I touch a light switch or open the stove door.
This weekend I got out all my diffusers and filled them with water. I don’t have a humidifier, but I’ve got a mini diffuser going in several rooms. It seems to be helping. Or it’s helping that it’s rainy/snowy out and so the air is just more humid in general.
My house constantly smells like fire, but I’m not mad about it.
The corner where my stove sits needs cleaned up several times a day. My mom found me some cool things from auctions, stove accessories. I also got a beautiful poker/shovel set for xmas from my brother. From auctions we’ve found a tool stand, an ash bucket, giant tongs, a brush, and a firewood holder. I need to clean it all off and arrange it inside. It will be more convenient than lugging wood in from the garage.
There is tons of kindling to be found outside. I have gathered up several twigs and limbs and dead prairie grass to use, which is more fun than cutting up cardboard boxes or burning magazines.
I am still getting used to what it takes to keep the fire going all night, without it getting too hot. One night my living room was 90 degrees. This week I’ve maintained a 68-71 degree living room and that is my sweet spot I think. I can’t wait to see my electric bill next month. I hope it’s more affordable…
Overall having a wood stove is amazing. 10/10 would recommend.
Redheaded Jill 
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