Update:

Yesterday was a wasted day, experiment-wise. The fire didn't take on properly and after a while it started to rain. Luckily, the budget allows for a few wasted days.

Today was better: good, hot fire and a solid column of smoke.

Locally, not much changes in the weather over the last few days. The first reports from overseas are in and they look promising. DJT reported snow and has2chit reported a blizzard.

More later.