Methinks the OP is rather green to all this. Let's explain the process from start to finish:
1. Cut the tree down with a chainsaw. (You can use an axe, but a chainsaw is much quicker, better, safer). Preferably an orange saw or an orange and white. Do not use green saws, and if you even think about a purple saw, go move to a big city and stay there.
2. Cut the branches off with a chainsaw.
3. Cut the trunk and larger branches into 16-inch long chunks called "rounds" with a chainsaw (some people prefer shorter or longer rounds).
4. Load the rounds into a trailer or truck. If the rounds are too big, use a chainsaw to cut them into halves or quarters or whatever your wife is able to lift. (Unless you are computeruser or discounthunter, then you just lift them yourself and write another check to your back doctor.)
5. Unload the rounds and use a maul or splitter (preferably a SuperSplit) to split them into burning size. There are also splitting axes, but the best setup is to have your kids using a SuperSplit.
6. Make your kids stack them into rows.
7. Get on AS and fight about whether or not to cover the rows or how long to let it season. Be sure to ask WhiteSpider about moisture meters.
8. Make the kids bring in wood and burn in your OWB or indoor stove (not a fireplace, unless you have an insert).
9. Get a good book, a cup of your favorite beverage, a lap blanket and your pet, and sit by the stove and smile for a few hours at a time.