Took a drive out to the LQS (not exactly local but the larger of the two within reasonable driving distance) and looked at the available machines. There wasn't much of a choice (unless I wanted one of the high-end machines) and the only possibility sounded good but appears to lack a USB port, which I've decided is a must-have. After reading what seems like thousands of reviews, I narrowed it down to the Janome MC200e and the Brother PE770. They both have mostly good reviews. After several more hours of going back and forth between the two, I've decided to get the Brother. If I go with Brother, it can be ordered from WalMart and IF there's a problem, it can be returned more easily.
So! I've just ordered the Brother PE770 and also felt the need to order a pair of pajamas . . . because I'm exhausted!
Thanks bunches for the help/advice, everyone!
