I appreciate your story. Most of us have been there, done that. Becoming a quilter is a journey but it takes determination that you are going to do it!. It appears that you have been able to hone in on your 'problems' and work through them. I personally thought your comments about your work space were important. It seems that you are now equipped with information as to where to go for help such as this board, YouTube, etc. But I am like the others, anxious to see your finished quilt. Years ago, I had a friend who did a DWR with big fish in the centers of the rings. Plans sounded 'rather strange' to my traditional mind;however, when complete it was one of the most beautiful quilts I have ever seen. So, I join the anxious crowd to well wishers.