My favorite time of a cookout. . . The yard and grounds are finally in a state of perfection, the grill is cleaned and already loaded with charcoal, the tiki torches are filled and in place (all 16 of them), the solar lights were fully charged in the front yard earlier (so they'll last all night) and they're in place too (about 20 of them). The music is thumping on the deck speaker system as the hazy, late afternoon sun shines through the trees. After busting my ass outside all day in 96 degree heat getting all this ready, I just got my shower and have already had an ice cold beer and a shot of Anejo Tequila, right from the freezer. There is a cool breeze and I can already hear fireworks going off in the distance. The catfish and chicken have been marinating in Louisiana Hot Sauce since yesterday, and Julia is in the kitchen on the other side of the bay windows on the left seasoning the salmon and cranking out the side dishes. This is my moment to reflect on it all, in celebration of the freedom our country still allows for someone to create the world in which they choose to live. As I finish my moment of grateful solitude (and my beer), I know it's time to get things started and light up the ole grill before friends and family start showing up. This was taken late yesterday afternoon. The cookout was a resounding success! Happy 4th of July and thanks for stopping by! marshall