RE: Average time for solo?
I would have to highly recommend the sim(G3) i know it's not cheap but in my view it's well worth it & it will help you get to your solo goal sooner than without, now as for your nerves, sorry to say they are there to stay its apart of the buzz of flying...the nerves for me always seem to kick in on a maiden & first flight of the day.
Happy Flying and best of luck
Paul