I think you are very realistic. That's how I started, buying just a little bit of different fabrics so I could learn how to quilt. I first pieced and quilted placemats, pot holder than.....
Our decisions change with times and I found out about connecting thread and I bought some fabrics from them, than I bought some yardage while on a trip in the U.S (I am from Canada)
For the last 2 to 3 years, I have not bought any fabrics and I am working only from what I have (not much) and having fun (most of the time) trying to make scrappy quilts and I enjoy it very much. I am a part time quilter and I have many other hobbies.
so
You are really realistic in my own opinion. do whatever you enjoy and have fun doing it.
if you want the rest of the story here is the beginning of my adventure in quilting....
http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...ol-t98259.html