Well boys, thanks. I feel like I did the right thing.
She is presentable; but she is about 15 to 20 footer (pics are deceiving). The motor is pushing some oil by the rings @ WOT, she needs to be freshened up, the body is really amazing given all the metal is stock (the rear fender lips have been re-done however). Either they took great care of the transmission, or it is rebuilt (not sure).
I am a hopeless Chevelle 68/69 FREAK. I mean, it is my favorite body. This will be my 4th A-body 68-72... it has been 20 years since I had my last one... I am 40 now. long time. I love looking down that big hood seeing the front pop up & down between gears... I got the Chevelle bug again big time.