Big Pistons Forever : When you had your experience, it was with flaps still down on the ground I guess? When rolling in heavy winds I always have flaps up.
GA aircraft are really different to handle.
I may not want to land in 20 knots crosswinds in a PA28.
Flying in the coastal areas I often do with a C172.
(10 knots may be announced as 'calm' in in the area ;-)
I avoid cross control slip in a taildragger, I always go crab and kick there.
Gutts feeling - don't use hanging tips cross control techniques in heavy crosswinds, go crab.
And for the OP, you have to train train train train train train for the right kick for your aircraft.