OK on the subject of Dad worrying about your safety ,
I don't know if your driving ever included any karting or SCCA stuff but if not................after the car is done get yourself to at least an Autocross , Rallycross or track day. Autocross is cheap and you'll get a chance to polish up on your car control...............it also curbs the urge to drive like a squid.
Not sure where in the state you are but there are lots of events statewide. I instruct at a bunch of events from manufacturer promo's to club events and I tell tales of stupid motorcycle tricks and rally dumb things I got away with in cars and how it all went away has soon as I attended organized events.

Enjoy your new engine , it should be a fun project.

Tom