Hilary--cudos to you for wanting to try FMQ on your first quilt! I just started branching out with FMQ and I've been quilting for over 20 years! FMQ isn't really hard, but it does require a lot of practice. How big is your quilt? If it is lap size on up, I would suggest you save FMQ for a smaller project, at least to start, because moving all the bulk around can get frustrating. It is better to learn on something small.

I don't exactly know your block pattern, but I'm assuming it is stripes 1/2" in width? Stitch in the ditch in each seam would be a lot of work and could make the quilt stiff. I'd do every other row. But here is another idea: stitch the blocks in a diagonal pattern across the stripes. This would give it a nice top stitch effect.

Good luck, and post a pic when you're finished!