No I didn't have a house fire!  I am a little bit embarrassed to admit this - but I can't seem to build one.  We bought a 100 year old house in September - and even though we are in SE Texas where I previously believed that it was never cold I have learned otherwise this winter.  This house seems to be a bit drafty so we have some insulating to do, however, for now, we are attempting to use the fireplace to warm the main areas of our house.  There is central heat which seems to create warm pockets but does not really warm the cool air.  It makes feeble attempts to blow warm air into the cold and you can guess which temperature air wins!   Anyway - here is my confession - I can't seem to make a fire!!!   The fireplace has an insert, which has a fan.  My hubby got one going the other night and I managed to keep it going all day yesterday - but I spent an hour this morning and can't get it going.  BRRR  I am cold!  I have stuffed paper and kindling all around the wood (which is not wet - it is perfect and the same wood supply we were using the other day) and it just all burns up - and makes the logs black where the flames hit -and maybe a little ashy and slightly orange in spots - then it all goes out.  I leave the door to the stove cracked open about an inch like hubby told me to get suction to fuel the flames - but nothing.  I am a bit frustrated - but don't want to be beaten here.  Any suggestions from you seasoned fire starters would be appreciated.   Help before I freeze to death!  

Love and blessings! ~ ? Julie ? ~

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