i feel dumb for asking this and i think i already know but i need to comfirm...when measure the valves with my feeder gauge do i measure from the lock nut or do i measure from the bottom of the head on the actual valve opening itself

 

If you are measuring for valve lash, you use the feeler gauge at the contact between the actual valve itself, and its rocker arm/pusher assembly.

NOT A HONDA, BUT YOU GET THE IDEA:

 

I measure between the cam lobe and the follower on my B engines. It's pretty difficult to get between the adjuster and the top of the valve stem (for me anyway).