So, about the program you could always just download the flash trial. :P Also there's a free animation program called Toon Boom. I've never really used it myself, but I guess it would be a good compromise.
Also I heard that flash became a subscription too, so if you like Flash in the trial you could always just do that. .w.
Anyway, you explained that the animation itself was your first one which is pretty okay considering that. However, one thing that I would work on would be pacing. It's someone that I myself haven't really been practicing, but it's always good to practice with that. Also, I would suggest making the music lower so it's in the background and adding sound effects to not only add emphasis on certain things, but to also make it more clear of what's happening. :>
Otherwise, congratulations on your first animation. owo