Welcome Steve! You are so lucky to have Leslee to be your teacher and friend, and so many other wonderful talented women in your life to inspire and support you in your new-found passion! I can tell you're gonna be good at this. :)
And welcome to you too redrummy. I'm so sorry to hear that you've been dealing with breast cancer. My good thoughts and prayers go out to you. It's good to hear that you'll be feeling better and stronger now. And I hope that quilting can be a part of your recovery. Blessings and best of luck to you. :)