I don't see the problem with turning on the furnace as needed...
As soon as it drops into the low 50's or lower at night, I kick the furnace on, though I set the temp to 66. That way we don't wake up with the house 60. It wouldn't bother me, but the wife would disown me...
It’s a challenge. How late in the year can I go without turning the furnace on....I have a boring life have to find thrill in the little things.