Got some sun today but the temps were still only in the 50's, still enough solar gain that I should be good without fire this evening. The Sun is still pretty strong this time of year but if it's cloudy with a good North wind it can get pretty chilly.
I just love the inviting presentation of that fireplace. You should be very proud of that accomplishment. You should be warmed by it for as long as you live there.
I must be the only one here who puts it off as long as possible......lol. I love fall but the olde I get the longer it seems winter lasts.