Thanks for all the replies!! After spending all day researching, comparing and reading reviews, I chose the Brother XL 3750 Free arm sewing machine with quilting features. It was really cheap and several people I know recommend Brother.
I have done some basic sewing several years ago but used a machine that my mom let me borrow.
Guide to Sewing" put out by Singer.
I am very excited to learn lots of things from this forum!!