Thank you for sharing your priceless story. Look forward to seeing what you create in the future. I agree with Charlee...write it down! I am also a scrapbooker and writing stories is so very important...in your own handwriting!
I have my grandmothers 1937 Singer, in the cabinet. It has a motor. Perhaps you could have a motor added to yours?!?!? In the past I have made clothes on it. I am now spoiled to the modern machines! :)