GramE, pace yourself! I hope you don't stress over getting your blocks done. And I have a sewing machine on my dining room table too! It's my main place to sew. That started in 2003 when I had my Dad and needed to keep an eye on him for safety. My sewing spot in the dining room looks straight into the living room, and left into the kitchen. I could keep an eye on Dad and the dinner I was simmering on the stove at the same time as sewing!
My kids don't come for holidays anymore, we usually have them at one of their houses, so the dining table is all mine for sewing.