Great story, Brian. When I was a kid, my exposure to BBQ and grilling was nothing short of pitiful. As an adult, you can turn that around. I never had kids of my own, but if I did, they would be masters of the grill, as well as the BBQ.
I fill the charcoal up as much as possible, then remove 20 coals from the center. They get lit in the chimney, then I pour them into the hole. Adjust the vents correctly, and that gives me eight hours of fairly steady temperatures. I usually fill the bowl with hot water, but I've used cold water...
I've used that same rub for more than ten years, now. I haven't deviated from Chris' Renowned Mr. Brown recipe since joining TVWBB. Although I'm thinking of trying a mustard finishing sauce one of these days! Maybe this year? I hate to mess with (repeated) success! :)
I use a Maverick currently, and I've never had an issue. I do plan to get a Smoke when they get the WiFi sorted out. WiFi is the ultimate solution to the connectivity issue IMHO, at least when cooking in the home environment.
Wow, that looks delicious. Start a bit earlier next time. That's how I get through the stall. I usually do an eight to ten pounder, and I allow 12 to 14 hours for the cook. I never wrap a butt, but I always mop.
I agree. It's no fun going outside at 2 AM when it's cold. There are also the sounds of summer that are missing. Plus, who wants to crack a beer that's going to freeze when you're not at a football game? lol