Happy Birthday! Hmmmmmm what machine to get, think your going to have to decide do you want to expand your embrodery skills or do you want a work horse just to sew & quilt with. I have a janome MC10000 its my do everything dream machine then I have a JUKI that I long arm with on a grace quilter, its a work horse for quilting and sewing different thicknesses. I also have a little cheap Euro-Pro that is very light weight that is my take everywhere machine. Check your local dealers try several brands, see if they have trade-ins available that you might be able to get a better machine for the price because it was slightly used. Check EBAY for pricing whats out there in your budget range to help decide. If your going for embroidery go for something that accomodates a large hoop size because before you know it you'll out grow it and be saying I wish mine did a larger area! Again Happy Birthday.......what ever you decide don't trade the DH in! LOL He is a keeper!