Another option to consider, as far as learning how to sew goes...

You live in Springfield, MO, right? Are you a student at Southwest MO State? (Well, this would probably work, even if you aren't...)

Go to the art department and post something on bulletin boards there indicating that you're looking for someone to teach you sewing lessons. Or find out if there is a Fibers professor and ask them for assistance. Or go as far as to take a Fibers art class. If the state school doesn't have any, check the community colleges.