I also live in Charlotte,NC and had to write after reading your post. I'm sorry to hear of your cancer, and wish you well.
It started with my daughter who wanted to learn how to sew. Signed her up for lessons as well as myself. The shop I went to offered quilting lessons but I hated the thought of cutting the material. The shop eventually closed and I was getting bored w/just sewing. Found another place in Indian Trail and took a class. I fell in love....
I still hate the cutting aspect, but enjoy the piecing and really need to do better on the quilting. Started just over a year ago and have made six quilts. Large and small.
Any suggestions on where you find your fabric?