What a sweet story and I love that it was allocated on your birth date. Are you going to name her Violet? �� I'm really glad your stepdad wouldn't take money for it. That's a start to mending your relationship.
Since you grew up with that machine, you know it's power. The speed is incredible! Makes for fast piecing But I love how it foes free motion and has all that harp space. Plus there's nothing like sitting at a machine that's rich in history and memories. You'll find it easy to clean, but there are small parts so do put them on a magnet inside a small box so you don't lose them. I didn't do that the first time I cleaned it--and lost a screw right down the heating vent! Cover your vent if your machine is over one while you mess with tiny parts.