Yes, you should have a crockpot.
They do not need to be fancy, about $30. at Walmart.
Get a big one, as you will want to freeze part of your foods.
They do not heat up the house, now the pot is removable and easy to wash.
And food in them tastes good, beans soups and roasts.
The best Corned Beef that I have ever had, my sister cooked this year, just plopped it in the pot, dumped the packet of seasoning on top and put the lid on, no added liquid, 4 or 5 hours later she started adding the carrots, pots and then a bit later the cabbage.
I am just checking the thread, as I have been busy posting and be sure to take a look at the other crockpot recipes that I just posted, several I will make, these are after your post in 5035 and of course the entire thread is sprinkled with them.
Thanks!