Very sorry you've been struggling with health issues. I wonder if you could skip the kindling altogether with one of the trigger start propane torches? Stack either bricks or splits with good air spacing at the bottom, and fire it up. Just a thought where you were looking to simplify the start up. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/l7jiytoImrM
That is what I do. Very rarely use any kindling. Just a few small splits and hit them with the propane torch for about 60 seconds. Small propane cylinder usually lasts at least one and a half burning seasons.
That's an interesting take and might actually be a great bang for the buck now that I checked price of a small propane cylinder. Like, $6? That is def cheap.
