Thank you to everybody! I learned so much from all your comments and good advice! Your enthusiasm is so contagious!
To those of you who cannot afford to go to a quilt retreat, here is how I was able to manage this. Far in advance, actually last summer, I began to tell and remind my family that contributions towards this adventure was all I wanted for Christmas and my Jan birthday. I decreased the fee by sleeping and breakfast at my daughter's nearby and I will use my own fabric stash. My amazing family listened and honored my wish, so much so that, I only had to save up 1/2 the amount. So, at least this one time, I can go to a big quilt retreat.... I'm so excited!