I tried to post a few minutes ago but nothing happened. I apologize if this becomes a double post.
I want to thank all of you for your help. It may be that this quilt would have ended up "out the window" without your great ideas, tips and suggestions.
I tried my hand at fmq for the first time and also sid. This is the second queen size quilt I have made (both are the same pattern). My sister got the first one and I decided to give it another go for our home. I am really happy I did. There is next to no cotton in this quilt - all made with fabrics I had on hand.