The end of Speedweek 2012 has arrived. For a “virgin” as we were called, I have to say it could not have been much better. This is not your typical family vacation, that’s for sure. I still keep saying that this is crazy, who does stuff like this? Well, luckily, we do, who wouldn’t want to live out a dream if opportunity knocks.

I just want to say how proud I am to be a part of this and to see Andy succeed at such a huge endeavor. Many people go through life wishing they could do this or see that. He stepped up and followed through with a project larger than most of you could even imagine. This started 5 years ago when I gave him the go ahead to proceed. I mean, who gets to do something like this at such a young age? He had the knowledge and drive to make it happen. I think it got a little more than expected but he stepped up and worked harder. If you don’t like it, do it again! And he did, many times.

All his work has paid off, even if all it provided was an experience of a lifetime and memories that won’t fade. I am just glad that I can finally fill the empty wall in my living room with the photo we had to drive to Utah to take. Not like I couldn’t have photoshopped it onto the salt. That may have been a bit cheaper!

I have to say, if you know Andy at all, I have never seen him so nervous. It was a bit rough on that first run. We were all pretty silent. With each run it got much easier as our duties all fell into place. Talking to other people, it’s a common theme to work day and night for weeks before you leave and finish it as it goes on the trailer. I just love the fact that our car never ran under its own power until the first run off the push truck. That was a great moment to see him pull away on his own. What a relief!

We were very lucky to not have any major issues. Sure, who doesn’t want to go faster, that’s what you are here for, but to design it, build it and drive it on your own…think about that! The car is coming home in one piece and he is safe. That is everybody’s goal. Sure records are nice but not necessary. While other pits had engines tore out and other issues, we were able to take naps in our pit. That’s the sign of a good build.

Don’t worry, the list has already been started of improvements to make and talk of our next visit. This was a good jumping off point to see what it could do. The process will never end and everyone tells you that you will get the fever and have to return every year. So any money that you would like to donate, send to ….. Or stop by for a photo op with the car, only $10.00 each!!! Unless you have a lot of money, then bring your check book.

I would like to thank our pit crew for getting us through this. You cannot do this alone and luckily all of ours was family so it did make it more of a vacation. We each participated in our own way to make Andy comfortable and keep him focused. I, however, would like a medal for being with 4 Welker men for so long and it’s still not over! And yes, the spray has been used many times.

We are in Wyoming for the night, nothing really interesting to see. I’ll try to start posting more along the way home since I have a lot of car time doing nothing else. Keep following, it will be another few days till our adventure ends. I don’t want to think about that yet, I’m on vacation!!!!!!! – K