Wecome from the Beautiful state of Arizona, USA.
I agree it would benefit you to join a group in your area to learn all you can first hand. I belong to a group here and we learn continually from one another and I have learned so much from this board. What a treasure and wealth of creativity and knowledge is on this board.
I would try a simple 9 patch design and make it small and then go on to machine or hand quilt it before tackling something larger.
I know the excitment of creating a quilt when first beginning, and the excitement never goes away - each new quilt is just as exciting as the first.
If you do not know who Ricky Timms is, goggle him and you will see the fabulous work he does. Also Eddie, here on the board, is just one of the fabulous men quilters that will inspire you - along with all the wonderful ladies.
I love seeing men involved in quilting. They seem to have a different eye for quilts that I enjoy very much.
Happy quilting!