My Dad and I have a 51 Ford that we always wanted to build up/restore, but neither of us could ever afford it so it just sits in the shop now. Maybe someday when Im older I will be able to afford it. Id love to have an old truck like that. I really wish my Dad could have afforded to build it with me back when I was younger so I could drive it like you have planned. He got it when I was about 13 or 14 as well. I hope the build goes well for you, it should be a good time.
The sentimental attachment to that truck is going to be huge. I know because I never even built mine with my Dad, but the time we spent together just getting the damn thing running (all stock straight 6 with a 6 volt electrical system) and the few times we drove around in it are huge memories. I know someday it will be mine, and whether I can afford to restore it or not, its not going anywhere.
~T.J.