Thank you all for your input and suggestions. I am now the very excited owner of a Brother Dreamweaver VQ3000! (So much for just starting my search!) I went to the dealership that many of my local friends recommended and tried a variety of machines both Brother and Janome, but when I sat down to the VQ2400, I was hooked! But I really wanted the large extension table of the 3000, which was not on display, but he had one in the back. I really had no intention of purchasing anything this soon, but I have been looking at this model for awhile and my husband was very encouraging (which probably means he has his eye on some new hunting or fishing gadget!) so I did it. I love this machine! It sews like a dream, the needle threader works every time, the pivot function is fabulous, I could go on and on! I can't wait to explore the pen and laser and the Muvit Foot. If anyone has this or a similar machine and has any helpful hints, please share.
Now my only problem is that I don't want to leave the sewing room!
Carol