I haven't quilted that many years, but my idea of quilting from the start is the "quilting" is just as important and as much of the quilt as the top. I have never sent one out. As I learned to piece, I learned to freemotion as it seemed to be just another step to me. It seems most of you piece by machine(blessings to you that hand stitch everything), so I don't think the quilting is any less important. The amount is definitely a personal preference and can make or break the top. Sometimes the quilting is meant to be the star, and sometimes it's just doing a function. It's whatever makes you happy!!