It has been a while since my last blog. I know, we all say the same thing, but I really haven't had a lot of exciting things to report to everyone. Toni and I drove to Brainerd, raced, and then drove back to the shop so we could spend a few days at home before driving to Reading. Since Jon was finished with summer classes, he flew into Brainerd to help us and then drove home with Toni and I in the rig. Cozy, but fun. We arrived home on Monday evening in record time. (Was there ever any doubt?)

Since Jon had to return to Clemson by the weekend and Jamie and I really hadn't had any time to have fun with him (other than working at the racetrack and driving 26 hours home) we decided to take an afternoon and play golf. I really am not a very good golfer and the fact I broke the head off of my brand new 3-wood should tell me something. At least I gave the guys something to laugh at. Anyway, we had a great time and that is all that mattered.

Since we are only about three hours from Reading, we decided to leave early on Thursday morning and head to the track. It worked out well as it gave all of us an extra day at the shop. Well, we had a good weekend in Reading, qualifying No. 8 and running some very fast times. Melissa and her friend Lisa drove up for the weekend to help us out and it was really great to see them. Unfortunately, they didn't get to see much of our racing on Sunday. We were in the lanes waiting for the Funny Cars to finish running when the monsoon hit. It quickly became apparent the rain was there to stay so they reluctantly decided to leave and drive the eight-hour trip home. But, at least they were there for my qualifying runs so that was a good thing.

Well, it hasn't stopped raining since I left the track Monday afternoon so I can't imagine how frustrating those individuals left in Reading are feeling right about now. But, with the outcome of the Countdown to the Championship on the line, the wait will be well worth it to those that benefit from another round win.

Our plan is to test a couple of days before going to Indy so we can break-in tires, clutches, and try some new combinations we have been working on. Bill Jenkins and the guys at the shop have been working really hard on increasing our horsepower and based on our performance at Reading we are exciting about our chances in Indy.

Oh, by the way, you'll have to check out the newly updated Wiley X website (www.wileyx/racing) with some great pictures of our Pontiac GTO. While you are at it be sure to also check out some of their latest designs of glasses. Not only do they have designer sunglasses, but they have glasses for every extreme sport you can imagine. I have included a picture of my new Wiley X firesuit along with my new sunglasses. Let me know what you think.

Well, today is my day to spend opening mail and approving bills to be paid so I better get back to work. I promise to try to be more diligent in my blogging in the future and appreciate everyone checking in with us. I love hearing your comments.