Happy Birthday! I just returned from visiting our Grands, and used my DD Brother 400 SE to piece a large Dresden Plate. It was wonderful, didn't realize I was sewing with such relecks at home. I loved the no pedal, the speed control, the easy to read screen, the easy to find 1/4 inch seam allowance. Did I say I enjoyed this machine? Under $400. For the money, I think you should try it. I didn't even try the embroidery, but DD loves it.