I think that you'll remember more than you think as you get back into it. i certainly did. Alot of it is also trial and error. i've made some pretty questionable things and then the next time I know to double fold my hems or whatever. I'm sure classes would certainly help though.
and thanks for the compliment on my furbutt!
I haven't a clue on the priority mail thing although its entirely possible with Christmas coming up. I live on a military base in Germany so everything we order goes to NYC before it comes here and takes at least a week usually two.