ahhh... *achoo!* its finally summer!

Normally allergies dont hit me hard... if at all. i was born severe Asthmatic so i've always done my fair share of weezing, but for some reason, this year is really rough on me!

but this summer holds much promise.

not only for my body and the changes i'm making in my life, but also for my family and friends.

I have avoided the scales. I didnt do so well on my diet in Panama City Beach on our last trip: after 7 straight nights of Mexican food and sangria, i'm sure i packed some pounds back on. so i've just worked hard with the notion that i'll wait until i improve. actually seeing the numbers is discouraging.

last week i pushed myself. i got my speed up on the treadmill and was happily going at nearly 6 miles an hour. this is no small feat for me. so i'm proud of it. i skipped the 5k to push further. its these little baby steps that are proving successful.

i'm making progress on a few projects as well - and it seems to really aid in my goals of getting healthier.

we pulled the motor out of my 76 maverick last night. it was my first car, so restoring it to running condition, despite its horrible Michigan rust cancer, is really important to me. i cant believe how relieved and happy i felt when that motor finally swug free of the engine compartment.

also, working on making my bike, the Hellcat finally tuned right. i'm working hard on understanding WHY and HOW the points, carb , etc all work. i'm really gaining an understanding of the engine. i was able to do the math and now i KNOW what jet to put in my old bendix carb and WHY that will make it work better. i can diagnose issues and finally come up with a solution for them!

also, in the next 3-4 weeks i'll be an aunt. i was an "aunt" to dustin's nieces and nephews for a decade. but i only have one living brother and so his children will be my only blood relatives. his wife is due June 13th to have a little girl. they are naming her Chloe Grace. i'm excited about her arrival. i think she's what our family needs right now! and from her ultrasounds i'm so excited to finally hold her and see those fat little cheeks in person!

and finally the past few weeks have permitted me some gardening time... and seeing new growth and the fruits of your labor and the amazing miracle of it all is really the best way to lift spirits!

so despite my allergies and horrible work schedule, i'm seeing results for the positive in my life. its amazing how much different this is than this time last year when i was sure it had all fallen apart beyond repair.

:)