My rig looks similar to yours, that I use to haul mulch. I've a carryall with sides on the back and the FEL on the front. Loading the carryall about 1/2 to 2/3 seems almost a perfect match to the FEL full in front. Very stable.
Used to burn wood in stoves in VT and NJ, but now the wife is allergic to wood smoke. Got 3 fireplaces and can't use them. We use our very efficient heat pump plus electric space heater, either direct electric or heat pump type.
I'd shuck the pants. My Mom was keeping her house (with direct electric heat) at 74 F. After she went to bed, I shucked my shorts. We keep our house at 60 F in winter and 74-78 F in summer. Gotta dress in the winter though.
Ralph