Welcome back from Texas too. When you get to know your machine, you might think of taking a few classes. Quilt stores have them but try for beginners. also tutes from Eleanor Burns of Quilt In A Day are great. she wastes a tiny bit of fabric but gives very good instructions. She used to teach children, so she does speak as if you were a child, he, he.
good luck. keep on here and ask when ever you need something.