Hope I don't get kicked off!!
Dan, there's no way you're gonna get kicked off this forum ... you're too adorable and a great story teller to boot. Your zeal for life is not only inspriring to all of us but it's contagious too!
I wish I'd had you for my auto shop teacher ... as the only girl in the class, I can say now that I'm glad I had my dad to show me the ropes ahead of time. Never one to be ignored (just ask these guys lol), I found out early on that most men don't want engine building advice from a chick and us girls have to be pretty much twice as good to earn half the recognition. That lesson is paying off now, but it would have been a real head start on the right road being in your class back then.
Welcome to you and your Stude, and here's wishing you the absolute best of luck chasing your dream and kicking a$$ at Bonneville next season. We'll all be pullin for ya! Keep us posted on your progress. (Oh yeah ... If you could use another decal or two on that sweet old ride just give me a call -- I don't have any salt flats customers yet but you would be a fine addition!)