That is so Charles Dickens! Burning coal in the fireplace? I didn't think people still did that. It's usually wood or wood by-products here. Also, I Googled "batten" to see how you were using it (we usually hear "batten down the hatches" and I hadn't even thought that a batten was a thing, I thought it was an act, to fasten the covers, etc. Now I get it!)
We learn so much here some days!
I had a letter from the electric company saying our year contract is about up, so I can choose to go with them again, or find a new company. I'll do a little shopping to see how the rates look. This year has been a lot more affordable since I dropped the default local company.
Fighting an annoying canker (sp?) sore. The sweets and nuts of holiday baking can make it worse, another reason to avoid the calories. :)