Had the stove lit for the first time tonight and it didn't disappoint. Each log lasted so much longer than in the old open fire. Feels good to have got it going. Roll on winter (at least from an indoors, sitting by the fire perspective).

Regarding the chopping and collecting, I agree about the smugness of having the heating off and sitting in a house warmed completely by your own efforts. Does feel good. The more self-sufficient the better for me, although I agree it is a job getting the wood in the first place, although I look at doing that and the sawing as good exercise!