Hi M.,
I do not know how to clean the hand held mixer except maybe q-tips/toothpicks and patience?? ;) However, as I read your "about me," I thought I was reading about myself! It was eerie! We have a LOT in common: baby daughter, baking, teaching, love school, love watching the learning process, arts, crafts, scrapbooking, reading, picnics, fall, writing (you didn't say that, but it seems that way), trying to lose weight (ha), the precious moments of being a mommy, not being able to drive a stick (but fully capable of accomplishing most other things ya set out to do)!
Good luck to you! I hope you like Albuquerque. Not being from here either, it took some adjusting, but now I think it's the greatest for it's 4 mild seasons, desert/mountain landscape, sunsets, huge sky, diversity, and traditions.