Hi Patty,
I used to live in Kirkland... forever! Now I am over in the desert and enjoying it very much.
I have sorta followed some of your experiences and finally found that if I kept aiming for perfectionism, like I did in clothing, that I was never going to get off the starting line.
It's been said by many to make chairty quilts for others and give them away. The recipients do not see the mistakes like we do and they will be thrilled with your gift of love. In the meantime, you will gain experience and thereby improve!
My DH and I are hoping to make it to the Sewing Expo this spring. Haven't been in years and not since I started quilting again. Lots of opportunities to add to one's stash. Glad to say hi.