I started a fire today without charcoal lighter

[Marthe48]

I haven't started a fire for years. My neighbor had a showing of her house and couldn't be there. I invited her to come by if she didn't have plans. She said she would. I knew we'd stay outside, along with Covid-19, she has 3 Yorkies who don't like cats.

We got a metal fire pit over 10 years ago we never used, so I dug it out. I had a bag of charcoal in the basement that was probably close to 10 years old. I wouldn't cook on it, but figured it might burn. I thought I had some charcoal lighter but couldn't find it. I looked online for tips how to start a fire without the fluid and gathered a few more things-newspaper, match books, and some old candles. I also walked around the yard and picked up a bunch of twigs and sticks. I built a pyre of twigs over the charcoal and put a couple of full unlit matchbooks in the charcoal and got it started. After there were some flames, I put a piece of candle in and ended up with a nice small fire that is still going. My neighbor and had a nice visit, and along with the sun, I think the fire helped us stay comfortable.

I'll put water on it before I go to bed.

[MLAA]

1. Sounds like a nice afternoon and you are a great neighbor💕

[Marthe48]

8. She's been a good friend

I will miss her when she moves.

[FSogol]

2. It was such a nice day here, I put a hunk of havarti in my smoker.

We have outdoor fires and grill all the time. I've never used lighter fluid. Rip up some cardboard and stuff under the charcoal and light it.

[Marthe48]

7. I might do this again

The trees shed constantly, always twigs and such in the yard. Fires are nice Enjoy the havarti!

[yankeepants]

3. I applaud you. I am the fire queen.

[Marthe48]

9. I was my family's grill cook

I was happy my experiment work

[soothsayer]

4. You know what's an awesome fire starter? Doritos chips

Not kidding; they burn like mad.

[Marthe48]

5. I've been on a low-carb diet, no chips here for over a year

But, I'll keep that in mind, thanks! lol

[soothsayer]

6. Velveeta "cheese" too

[The Roux Comes First]

10. I Haven't Used Lighter Fluid in Years

Ever since getting one of those "chimney" units about 18" tall and 6" D. A couple pp of newspaper is all it takes!

[Marthe48]

12. I saw that, and thought maybe I could make one

I might have an empty can around here I can punch holes in. The fire pit has a hole in the bottom and I think that helped it draw.

[cachukis]

11. Pour some olive oil on some paper towels. Put some kindling atop.

Light it. Learned in Mexico years ago.

[Marthe48]

13. Olive oil is good for everything!

I should try cooking with it