Preparing for Winter V

[Deleted User]

We've been using the stove so often in these past few cold, wet and windy weeks that I think we're going to have to get in another load of logs in the very near future or we'll not have enough to see us through until spring.  These couple of named storms have been a bit trying haven't they but so far the village seems to be intact.  Mind you we're flooded on virtually every road out so let's home there are no emergencies requiring immediate sorting out by the uniformed services because they would have the devil of a job getting here to sort them out.  Roll on some better weather.

shoei

So as we approach the longest day the squirrel inside of me starts prepping for winter!
We have filled the oil tank when the price was low, we have lots or logs that will be ready for this year but I really need to build a store!
The hay is in already so any additional cut we get can be sold for profit! 
All wooly hats have been washed and put away... I probably need to get rid of some that I don't wear.
We are doing some pointing on the house and the lime has finally arrived to do that, so just waiting on a nice dry day! 
So what is everyone else up to?  Surely I am not the only squirrel!

[Deleted User]

What a useful thing to have as a thread title, I had no idea there was one.  I will have to read all of it for some ideas in case we get a bad winter after the pandemic problems and put them into use here.

missychrissy

I’ve just walked my dog along the riverbank picking up pieces of wood a suitable size for my log burner. I keep a carrier bag in my dog walking coat for such pickings. I now have 3 full paper sacks ready for the winter. It has become a habit.

[Deleted User]

Missychrissy I think the habit will turn into a very useful chore that you can't not do.


Our family has been sorting the wet coat issue as usually all outerwear is hung up in the understairs cupboard and shut away. Although it hasn't proven to be problematic as of yet, the ventilation isn't too grand in there. There is now a wooden rack by the front door where we can plug in the dehumidifier. I have bought two baskets  to put on the shelving that has been incorporated into the rack. This is for gloves and hat storage. 

noodles86

I've spent lock down having a thorough sort out of every room, whilst not very squirrel like, certainly feel more serene! 
Winter coats, hats, gloves etc have been tried on and either washed and stored or if small in the donate bag. 
We're building a shed in the garden soon so until that's built over the summer I can't order us any logs but it's on the list, I love how the wood looks stacked in the living room, it looks a little sad at the moment with only 10 logs up the wall! 
This weeks job is to buy the children more clothing - I hate buying online but equally don't fancy taking them clothes shopping next week! 

LadyhavershamLost

I've spent a fair amount of time sorting the woolly hat boxes  - I've a list of what needs to be replaced. I'm on the hunt for new winter coat for smallest one( although she is nearly 10 now!).

I've been building up a decent amount of reserves on my PAYG fuel account which helps. I'm not sure if i'll qualify for the Warm Home scheme this year so want to make sure I've saved at least that amount plus my extra £20 per month so I don't have to think about worrying.

Cranberry gin is hiding in my loft  - so I'm not tempted to try it!

[Deleted User]

We have the chimney sweep booked to come on Friday then the fireplace will be useable in the winter, it gets very cold here when the wind is in from the north and we're glad to have an extra boost.

MingVase

Another squirrel here, stashing coal and calor gas now. Might be shortages or delays this year and I don't want to be left cold..

jamanda

We are also stashing wood.  Luckily DH is allowed to bring home scrap wood (we're talking really good squares, not so much pallets) from work.  This is second week back following lockdown, and he is filling his van when he can.