Wow!!! You all are so incredible!!! Thanks so much for the support. I've only found the fortitude to read the first 1 and a half pages of this post but I will!! It's conforting to know I can go to this post when I need a little sunshine in my day.
Just to let you know, before my quilting went by the wayside, I did find a business that rented their long-arm to customers that first paid for a lesson. Not cheap but was a good alternative. Since that was a least 5 years ago, I'd have to see if they're still around or if any additional similar businesses have opened since.
Besides being your typical fabric snob, I just remembered I was also a...well you tell me what kinda snob I was...I felt that if the quilt was "from" me, it had to be "totally made" by me. Needless to say, I've grown(???)& matured (ha) and may not feel this way anymore... I'll have to discuss that with my therapist!!!!!!!
Anyway, thanks again for all your kind thoughts xoxoxo