Mark..I'd suggest the same for you as well. Cranking w/o starting helps get the oil moving and then when you start at the higher rpm all the bearings aren't dry.

You all are forgetting the most important part. Remember that cars are like women, they want to feel needed and appreciated. Before trying to start anything, you have to tell it that you missed it and that it'* more beautiful than you remember and that you'll not leave again for a long time.

Then you work on getting the fluids...er...oil flowing before trying to start anything. :P

For the transmission, once the motor is fully warmed up, and when I do go to drive the car, should I drive for a period of time in 2nd (not going over 25mph) and drive in circles in reverse ( seriously) to make sure the trans is lubircated through out?

No need. Once the engine starts, the pump in the trans is working.

I'm all set

Thanks guys for all your help