Finally success - thanks from a newbie

Hello fellow eggers,

I've always wanted an egg but it was hard to justify when there are 2 gas grills, a Weber, and a little red smoker crowding our deck...especially for the price - even though I'd heard it was worth it. Then a friend told me she wanted to get rid of her large egg. She'd only used it once...I suppose a good friend would have tried to convince her to keep trying it, but knowing she loves my artwork I offered to trade a print for it. She's tickled and so am I.

My first three attempts were disasterous...my dogs were very happy with the new egg. :-) I went to the Internet and found you guys - what a lifesaver! Thanks for all the info you so freely give - especially again and again to us newbies.

My bag of mesquite wood said to use it in place of charcoal - who knew? Thanks to you - I do now. The egg was frozen shut after every use...I thought it was trying to tell me something. But I've learned through the forum to put foil along the gasket until I purchase a cover. I'd never heard of Dizzy Pig rubs - a big thank you for that info.

I made my first ABTs tonight with Italian sausage - while not a thing of beauty, they are not only edible, they're delicious. The spatchcock chicken was delectible. I love dark meat and always hope the white meat is juicy - you could tell by looking at it that was - my husband loved it. Finally success! I couldn't have done it without you - nakedwhiz, wessb, and thirdeye - to say nothing of all the generous answers everyone posts.

Thanks for all your help. I'm sure you'll be hearing from me often!

Patty