'Twas brillig, and the slithy toves did gyre and gimble in the wabe

Congratulations on a successful first navigation.

Very interesting to read the thoughts of someone learning this for the first time. As something I learnt 10 years ago I don't think about any of it. Those tiny movements of balancing the clutch in the gas just sit in the back of your mind and never really cross it. Even countering for wheelslip, loss of traction and alike just become second nature over time.

One thing I will mention is I was taught that when changing gear it was like a sea-saw motion between gas and clutch as you feather the bite back in. To be fair the engine normally has enough revs for a smooth change, but as you go faster you will want more power as the gear comes in.

Another point to make is that feature of the indicator doing a few flashes if you catch it (but not turn it on) is one of the most useful features for long distance multi lane driving. It allows you to tap the stalk once to give you just enough flashes for a lane change. Use it hundreds of times a week...

Anyway, glad you enjoyed it, long may it continue...