Trina,
I agree with Janet - just go ahead with you method. I also quilt without a thimble because I have to feel the needle. When you need a protection somehow you can also try these little adhesive pads called "Thimble It". I know many hand quilters who use them with success.
For me eveness is the most important thing, the length of the stitches are secondary.
I always do single stitches and for that reason small curves are not a problem for me. I just turn the hoop a little in a comfortable postition. When you load your needle full with stitches it is much more difficult to do smooth curves.
I only mark a few patterns or area on the quilt, then I quilt and mark again. In that way the markings stay long enough on the quilt until the quilting is finished.
Hope that helps!