JP, You are doing great and you know what worls for you. Shadow had a post around standing vs seated and erector issues and I like having a waistline so for me (seated) is the way to go. I know others like standing. Yay for them, cookies for everyone! I do know what you mean about pushing weight but like you, my goals are different and my body wont allow certain lifts anymore. Oh well
I don't care what anyone else thinks about machines or free weights. If it works and you can deal with it, go for it
You look good and that is what you are trying to achieve here at this very moment, nothing else. Stay focused and keep on doing what you're doing b/c it's working for you.