I just want to thank everyone for their advice and input but I'm calling it quits. I cannot play anything cleanly and it's just not fun or satisfying.
I think I know what the problem is. My left hand does not rotate such that I can reach any of the frets properly.
If I keep my left arm against my left side, bend my forearm 90 degrees and try and turn my palm such that it is facing the ceiling, it only goes at most 45 degrees. My wife can turn well past facing up. I watch other players and their hand is flat against the fret board with all 4 fingers even across the 6th string. Mine are angled from the 1st to the 4th. If I want to get into the "proper" position I have to put my elbow almost in my groin and still lean way to the left. Not satisfying.
So thanks everyone.
I think I know what the problem is. My left hand does not rotate such that I can reach any of the frets properly.
If I keep my left arm against my left side, bend my forearm 90 degrees and try and turn my palm such that it is facing the ceiling, it only goes at most 45 degrees. My wife can turn well past facing up. I watch other players and their hand is flat against the fret board with all 4 fingers even across the 6th string. Mine are angled from the 1st to the 4th. If I want to get into the "proper" position I have to put my elbow almost in my groin and still lean way to the left. Not satisfying.
So thanks everyone.