Thanks for all the advice, I thought I'd give you all an update:
1. I'M 70 NOW!
2. Up to the BM section of my Kara attunement (all three frags collected)
3. Have two permanent* pieces of gear
- Destruction Holo-gogs
- Spellfire Belt
4. Dropped mining to tailor, got that up to 356 at this point.
You all have been so helpful, whether giving cloth for tailoring, gem cutting, or helping me in instances that you didn't need to do! I can't list everyone that's done something for me, but I think at least Nevi, Grampy, and Treehouse deserve some Redeemed rep (if they aren't already exalted). And I know there's others, so don't be upset if I didn't mention you!
Looking forward to doing BM, and running Kara with you soon!
- Flame
*not being replaced in the foreseeable future