From misfortune springs

FIREWOOD!
Ike's 2008 windstorm left us without our giant oak in the front yard.
It was hugely expensive to get the remainder of the tree down. The tree removal crew came with bucket trucks and wenches.
Earl Blankenship, the owner of the tree service, and a tiny wizened guy, exhibited his great skills in tree removal.
I marveled at his workmanship.
I was amazed how quickly the tree was down in the yard and in huge pieces.
Ritchie, our trusty wood cutter, arrived shortly after the tree crew left; to saw and split enough wood for two winters.
Our Jotul stove is keeping us quite warm and cozy.
If economic gloom continues, we'll just hibernate until it is over.
We'll cook soups on the stove and wait for spring.
And we'll hope all of you will stop by to warm yourselves by the fire.
Eat some soup too!
From the expense, firewood: priceless!