(((Hi Deb))) thanks for the note, I sure was sorry to see all you've gone through as well...it seems that even though we are programmed to go through this stuff, grief seems to magnify it a hundred times. I did start with a therapist for some cognitive therapy (positive thinking), and hope it works for me. i may go to a hypnotherapist as well who has a tinnitus retraining clinic to help you learn to quiet the noise in your head, or find a way to get used to it. i think i'm going through a midlife crisis as well, no fun either... as for the quilting, I occasionally hand quilt, but it takes forever. When I machine quilt, I just "stitch in the ditch" (the seams) or hand tie every 5 inches with embroidery thread. For most of my quilts though, I send them out to be done. There's a lady who is very reasonable, and most of my quilts, including backing and batting, are under $100 to have someone else quilt them...so that's my preferred method. I hope you have fun with your new toy though! good luck!! xoxoxo Carol, Ross' mom