I personally do the same as Mrs Daisy does. I use the silicone spray, its a real life saver!!! Love it! And I use little Genie bobbin washers for the bird's nests, those are a huge help and I noticed that my bobbin makes alot of rattling noises until I began using those, now now all quiet. Music is wonderful for getting in the groove. I normally don't drink but I have found if I have a glass of wine, my shoulders aren't up around my ears when I take my breaks. I sometimes do stitch in the ditch and fmq on the same piece it all depends what my plan is. Have you taken a look at Patsy Thompson's fmq videos yet? I think between both her and Leah you can be a master in no time. Practice makes perfect but perfect won't happen the first time so don't beat yourself up about it. Just have fun. I hope this helps.

Donna