Hi Deborah and welcome "aboard"
I am a fairly new quilter also and it is at time difficult to learn, and so much fun and addictive at the same time. My husband and I visited Nashville and a little of the area in spring 2011. I found nice Local quilt shop (big sin...) my travel souvenirs were yardage of beautiful fabrics!
we are planning a trip towards Memphis at the beginning of Novembre. I really like what I have seen in Tennessee so far!
Enjoy your new hobby and the board!