I also have a pile of quilts that the tops are done, but I need to finish and get out of the house and get rid of that 'pile.' I rent a LA at a LQS. I've done one a week for the last two weeks. I'd like to get moving on a third for this week.
I have tied a few newborn quilts and donated them to the NICU at work. No one ever complains. It lets the piecing stand out vs the quilting. Glad to hear that you've reconnected with the ways of yesteryear!