All we know about this image is that it’s of Chacma (Cape) baboons warming up around a fire, and was taken by a game warden in Africa.   

What we love is that it speaks to the ability of a fire to draw individuals – in this case baboons – together to enjoy the warmth and ambiance – and the camaraderie of others.

In a previous issue (Hearth & Home, August 2013) we spoke of firepits and outdoor fireplaces, and the fact that both products are selling well – very well – this year.

Referring to firepits, one manufacturer made the comment that a firepit just won’t sell without at least a couple of deep-seating chairs as part of the package. 

Well, not all the time. These fellas (and gals?) shown above are proof that soft, comfy chairs are not always needed, and that the smarter ones always sit upwind of a fire (note baboon behind smoke at right, probably not a wise choice for a mate).

Now, if these hairy relatives of ours ever begin cooking their food, we should all take note. That, according to Richard Wrangham (see article entitled “The First Cookout,”), may be the first step toward an enlarged brain and eventually competing with us by opening hearth, patio and barbecue stores.