Joy, you are indeed a quilter and be proud of your achievements. I have been quilting for over 25 years and will always be a 'newbie' - new to different techniques, patterns, ideas, gadgets and quilting (free motion = forever moaning)
I used to be a perfectionist with my quilts but about 3 years ago I was so frustrated with everyone telling me to do this and do that, I almost gave up quilting. I didn't thank goodness but now I do my 'own thing', am open to suggestions if I ask for them but have never been happier in my quilting journey.
Mind you, that doesn't stop me drooling all over the computer screen whenever I look at the beautiful quilts on QB !