Rob, don't worry about what it will look like.....everyone was a beginner at one point. Actually my first one was a full/almost queen size. I am like several others, I use a lap quilt and move it so that I can sew in direction most comfortable for me. One major thing I learned from message boards is to NOT have the quilt tight in the frame, giving it some slack will make it easier to rock.
Good luck and be proud of what you do, no matter what it looks like.