Well, I passed my checkride this morning and am now officially a flight instructor! The ride itself really wasn't too bad; it certainly wasn't like any of the horror stories I've heard. The work up to the ride though was rough. The next step is to get what's called a CFI-I, which is a certified flight instructor instrument. Basically it means I can teach people who want to get an instrument rating. So a couple days off, then hit it again Monday. At least the II rating isn't nearly as long as the CFI initial is.

Good stuff! I'm very tired, and very, very happy and relieved. It's been really a long road, and the end is now in sight!