Hi Terry,
I'm another short @rse at 5'5" with short legs.
Whilst I had no great problems flying the older gliders such as the K13/18/8/6 ect I did find some of the more modern (for the 80's and 90's) ones a bit awkward and had to use cushions. The worse problem I had was when I bought a VP2 built to fit a 6'+ pilot. I had the problem you describe of using cushions to reach the pedals only to find the stick became rather "intimate"
... Until I had time to move the fixed rudder pedals back I made rudder pedal extensions.
Totally sympathise with the lack of funds interrupting flying activities. I've been flying for over 30 years, but very on and off depending on funds. I'm in Norfolk so if you fancy a Cub flight when you move up here, give me a shout.
SS