Thanks to everyone for the help. When I saw this with my first attempt I had a feeling that this was happening and wanted to make sure it was. This is the first time I have used serial communications and I realized it is a world unto itself.

Now I have a request for your opinions. I am thinking of implementing some sort of protocol that would help ensure that the correct device (such as the correct slave) was accessed and then that data was received correctly (such as with an Ack that the sender would validate).

1. Is this worth it?
2. What system complexity is it worth implementing?
3. Are there any examples of simple protocols?
4. What other thoughts does anyone have regarding the use of protocols in embedded systems?

Thanks again, Jeff