Wood stoves have been used for heating solutions for hundreds of years. They have been used in a variety of ways such as a main heating solution for your home, a suplemental heating source for cold sections, or a just a nice snuggle spot.
There are many advantages to having a wood stove:
Wood is the cheapest heating fuel on the market
Harvesting your own wood can make your heating bill even lower
Harvesting wood provides an oppourtunity for exercise, getting close to nature, and family bonding times
Self sufficiency in that you will not have to rely on electricity or natural gas - you will stay warm if all else fails