Chad started researching how to build his own outdoor wood stove and discovered that it really wasn't too hard--just a lot of work. Since he is always up for a challenge and is extremely hard-working, he decided to go for it. A buddy of his from Evart had built one a few years ago, so he went and looked at his. He searched for the best prices on all the supplies and we will be able to complete it for under $2000 (he was able to use a few connections to get phenomenally low prices!). It will pay for itself in a year just in our propane savings!
He started cutting wood when we first decided to do a wood stove and has worked until sundown after work to get the wood all cut. We have almost all we need. He has just been cutting dead trees on our property and removed dead trees from our neighbors' property (which they are thankful for!) He had a few days off work the week of our anniversary and did most of the plumbing then. The plumbing is completed except for a few things he needs to get a special tool to do. We are waiting for a neighbor to help with the wiring.
He just picked up the propane tanks yesterday and went right to work cutting them open. Although I was concerned about explosions, he talked with someone who cuts propane tanks almost every day and learned a few tricks to stop the explosions. I am glad to say that they were cut without any explosions or injuries (but then of course the girls and I were praying the whole time!).
Please keep Chad in your prayers this weekend as it is his hope that he can get the remaining supplies and finish it. It will be nice to not to have to worry about the thermostat and not paying so much for hot water (yes, it will heat our water too which will greatly decrease our electric bill!).
