Crashnquilt that is so funny!!! Poor girl.
I think you should do some test stitches and decide which you like best. I prefer stem stitch when doing a larger project but for small stuff I like back stitch. I feel like it is easier to make a small design w/the back stitch. I have not tried perle cotton yet, so I generally use two strands of floss, but I ant to try the perle cotton soon. I think I would like not having to fiddle w/two strands. Currently I have only used my embroidery for wall hangings and one throw pillow, oh and some pillow cases.