How to Train Your Crippled Driver, Part VI

Guess who finally has an update on the van situation?

Here’s a hint:

Last Monday, I was up at the mechanic to do a “fitting”, where they basically make sure I can reach the pedals, steering wheel, etc. before they bolt everything down. This is what the driver’s side looked like, before the pedals were attached:

Oh – I also learned that my van had been named. It’s apparently a boy.

The females in my family and group of friends have a habit of naming their vehicles, and wanted to know what I was naming the van. I don’t usually name inanimate objects. Apparently, the van returned to the mechanic shop with the name already marked on the back windshield. We’re guessing it was to label it for a truck driver . . . but either way, my van is now being referred to as Earl.

And here’s the best news of all: After six months of vehicle modifications, and just over a year since the entire driver training experience started, I have my official “check out” date next Monday. As long as there are no issues, I’ll be driving on my own by noon that day. HOLY CRAP does it feel good to say those words!

Now I just need to figure out what my celebratory trip should be. Any ideas?