Raye & Bill,
I salute you for serving our country. Contrary to what the media wants you to believe, most of us civvies really do appreciate the people who lay it on the line for our nation.
Last year we were in San Antonio staying on the riverwalk right above the departure point for the tour boats. Apparently, all the fly-boys had weekend furlough for parent's day or something because the city was loaded with them. I chose to say my own little thank you by anonomously paying for the next 40 servicemen's rides.
When we were in Anchorage this year, the Blue Angels happened to be in town for an airshow & stayed at our hotel. Free food & drinks on me to the five lucky guys that happened to be in the restaurant when we were.
Just my way of saying thanks, I think they all truly appreciated it and I hope more Americans let them know. We sat on the balcony of our room in San Antonio & watched their faces when they were told that their ride was gratis. Worth every penny![8D]
Now, back onto subject that I derailed AGAIN. One of the best batches of chili I ever made was from the worst ribs I ever made. I decided to try & impress the then-future Mrs. Bubba by smokin' up a batch of spicy babybacks.
I coated, no make that caked, them with Rudy's Rub & let them sit overnight. Smoked them up the next day to perfection, the meat would stay on the bone until you bit it, then fall right off.
I took my first bite after she had a couple and asked her what she thought. "They're very good." she said. "Bull****", I said, "they're way too hot", and I like it HOT. She then conceded & we ordered a pizza. Somehow, she still ended up marrying me.
I couldn't throw them away so I peeled the meat off the bones & threw it in the freezer. Later that year when it got colder, I decided to make a batch of chili. Veggies, beans (ya, I'm a Northerner), tomatoes & the ribs.
Four gallons of chili & the only spices were the ribs! Still spicy enough that a dollop of sour cream felt just right.[

]
http://www.chezbubba.com Ya think next time I check into a hotel & they ask "Smoking or Non?" they would mind?