Anyone who grew up in Indiana forty years ago probably remembers being snowed in, with kerosene lamps providing the only light and a fireplace the heat.

With the roads impassable and no electricity, we would pass the time reading by the light of those lamps and talking in front of the fire, often popping corn.

As I grew older I learned to love the time together with my family, when we spent hours in those softly lit rooms, in front of a crackling fire.

When I bought my own home, in a warmer climate, I made sure I bought an antique kerosene lamp for the living room.

Although there is no chance I’ll get snowed it, I still love to light that lamp, sit back, and remember chilly nights, warmly lit rooms, and good conversation.