Splitting Headache may warm you up

Likely you have heard the expression, " I've got a splitting headache".  Unfortunately, if you have ever suffered from such a malady, you can appreciate the accuracy of the graphic description.  Quite literally, your head feels as though it may split in two because of the intensity of the pain.  However, sometimes a splitter may be something other than a severe headache, and in fact, may be just what you need to prevent one.

With the rising cost home heating oil or natural gas, heating one's home has become a real challenge for so  many families.  However, there are alternatives, such as solar energy, wind energy, and if you have access to "free" hardwood, then heating with a wood burning stove may offer a viable alternative.  Well, when it comes to good ole' Yankee thrift, free becomes every one's favorite four letter word.  My parents recently took down a few aged trees and Mother Nature assisted with Her contribution too, so there was plenty of "free" inventory to justify renting a wood splitter for the day.

The day started with the usual tankard of coffee and breakfast, before turning our attention to the task at hand.  Fortunately, the Sun was shinning, which has been a rarity this spring, so working outside was indeed a pleasure.  We quickly developed a "dis assembly" line, and we began splitting the inventory.  By days end, we had created quite a pile of firewood that will serve as the fuel for the coming season, and it will take that long to adequately dry out too.

New Englanders are well known for being frugal, and this is a classic example of good old fashioned frugality.  In the end, however, this little wood splitting exercise will do more to reduce the headache caused when next winter's home heating bill arrives than a handful of Ibuprofen.  In fact, the memories of our day spent splitting wood may even just warm us to the core!