Yesterday's sun rose brightly in an azure sky,
promising a mild, sunny day....
Surprisingly, it wasn't long before clouds blanketed the sun, keeping its warming rays from touching the earth. And so, Winter's chill hung in the air. It's this time of year - this short month of February, that leaves me longing for sunshine and warm breezes. And although we've had a somewhat mild winter, it's this particular day that finds me in need of warmth. And not just the warmth of the house. No, on this day, I need something to warm me to my core.
Chester: "What a yummy looking snack you have there!" |
And so, I load the gator full of cleaning supplies, some water, and a backpack filled with books I am reading and some drawing supplies. I stop along the way for some kindling and extra fire wood. My ultimate destination...
Maven Haven, my "she-shed".
On my arrival, it just as cold inside as outside (maybe even colder), so I start a roaring fire in the stove.
Within minutes, it is warm enough for me to hang my coat on a hook,
light a lamp,
and sit down to read.
Hubbs has joined me for a few minutes before leaving for an appointment. The tea kettle steams...
and I make a cup of herbal tea... the bright aroma set free on the waves of steam rising from the cup.
The dogs nestle in on the thick, wool rug to take a nap. The rug is homemade - crocheted years ago with core-spun, undyed wool from our own sheep.
"Who, me?" |
Annie and Chester are not sad when Forrest soon asks to return to the outdoors. With his thick winter coat, he is no fan of fireplaces or wood stoves, but prefers to lounge out on the cold ground. If he were any warmer, he'd be jumping in the pond to cool off!
Truth be told, the wood stove provides more than enough heat for this little space. In order to make it toasty indoors without it turning into an inferno, I keep the front door open a few inches.
We enjoy a cozy visit, then Jack heads out for his appointment, while I do a little deep cleaning.
"candid cleaning with a funky left hand! 🤣" |
It's cozy and uncomplicated.
There is a small metal oven that can sit on top of the stove for baking (something I have not yet tried). Perhaps one of these days I will try baking bread here in this little oven.
Not today, though. Today we simply absorb the warmth - a mini vacation from the cold, gray, days. Sometimes that's all one needs to get back out there and enjoy the last 6 weeks of winter. And sometimes, the best mini vacation is just a mental one - it's certainly easier than packing and traveling!
Comments
The pups look so cozy.
It's going to be a great day today. Enjoy yours!
What a cozy treat day! ❤️
The first thing that came to mind when you mentioned cooking on your little wood stove… Lisa in Green Acres… oh wait! That would be me!! 😄😄😄 lol!
Hugz and stay snugly warm.
>^••^<. (Katmom)