That thing just makes me grin.

And I can picture you sittin in the garage just as you described. Why? Been there!
Is that a spread-bore Holley? Kinda looks like it from the side. I had poor luck with one of those on my '68 Corvette. After a short time I went back to the Q-Jet. Maybe it was just me, or that particular carb, but I never could get it to perform as well as the Q-J. I love Holleys in general, but that one came from the citrus family.
Hope you enjoy the day and keep us posted as she progresses!