Pie Intimidation

Every year at Thanksgiving and Christmas I NEVER make pies.  I have made cheesecakes, banana puddings and pies with already made pie crust.  I have always used whipped topping such as cool whip instead of making my own merangue.  I am not really sure why I am sort of scared to make it.  I guess I'm afraid of it turning out HORRIBLE.  So, does anyone have any tips or ideas on how to make and nearly perfect pie crust and merangue?

Well, here are the pictures of my semi-homeade pies. 

Squished from lid. :(

Without the cool whip topping. :(

Whitout the topping. :(

Blessings,