[SailinAway]

We know very well that SOMEONE is profiting from inflation, showing that today's high prices aren't necessary. When things get to extremes---gas $5 a gallon, wood $450 a cord, etc.---it's the opportune time to quit the money-for-goods-and-services economy altogether and barter your skills, time, energy, and unneeded goods. I recently bartered my professional time (quasi legal services), the infamous Toro single-stage snowblower, and a high-wheeled trimmer-mower for home repairs, 3/4 of a cord of dry, cut and split firewood, and cutting and splitting a maple tree. No money was exchanged and I gained a friend and garage space in the bargain. I couldn't be happier. I bet everyone here has skills and goods you could exchange for wood. Do like our colonial ancestors did. Of course, your source for wood has to be someone who is equally interested in sidestepping the inflated fleecing economy.