Had half a cord of eucalyptus delivered last Friday. Three cases of cheap Italian wine were delivered yesterday. I feel wealthy and semi-secure having those things. The firewood is splinterly and super-dry. Burns well. Hardwood, burns hot. Good value. It's also really gorgeous to look at.

Having a supply of firewood is one of the best feelings around. These final few weeks before the winter solstice when it keeps getting darker earlier and earlier do not make me happy nor comfortable. A fire in the fireplace is the ultimate psychic defense. A rainy day without a fire in the fireplace is a missed opportunity.