Patrice, I *am* at the quilting phase, which is the problem! LOL I'm using the same fabrics and the same 100% cotton batting that I ALWAYS use. Same exact threads. Sooooo, I will remove the throat plate and see what all's built up under there! I'm embarassed to say that it's never been done on my poor machine, so I'll bet it'll be a lot happier when I've done it!!
Thank you ALL so much for your advice and insight!! Every day I say to myself, "THAT's why I love this forum so much!"... for so many reasons. :D