Welcome, from Texas! I would advise having several of the small (clear) 6" rulers (fairly cheap, at WalMart). These are good for measuring seams and marking seam lines/guides, etc.; these little rulers have countless uses! Place one by your sewing machine and then place the others in various places, around your sewing area. Keep an extra one, in a "safe place," for when you can't find any of the others!
Seriously.