Hi Dianne and welcome. I'm glad you're not going to give up on the hand quilting! It just takes time like anything else. Before you know it you'll be right at home with a thimble, hoop, frame or whatever method you choose to use. What type needle are you using?
"Betweens" are the best for handquilting and they come in different sizes. You might want to start with one of the larger ones until you're comfortable with the needle and thimble. I can't quilt without a thimble. Some can, but I'm lost without mine. Even with that though, you'll get pricked on the finger under the quilt and you just have to be patient for that to build a little callous. Then it's more comfortable. Don't fret about the size or eveness of your stitches to begin with. Just try to relax and enjoy the process. You'll get better and better with time and practice! Good luck.