Many thanks to everyone for your great responses.
fabricluvr, Moonpi, jstitch, mic-pa - Thanks for the Janome recommendation. It seems that the Kenwood (Sears) are made by Janome. Would you recommend getting the Kenwood or would the Janome be a better bet?
pocoellie - Thanks for the idea of the Elna. That gives me one more name to have a look into.
quiltwoman - I loved your idea of a quilt store and hadn't even thought of that. I searched and it seems there is one that is not far from where we live. Here is the url. any thoughts on how this store looks? Might it be a good place for me to go and visit? Me in a quilt store? lol
http://www.capitalquilts.com/
I can't thank you all enough for your willingness to help me out!