Me too although my instructor used LAPT (Look, Attitude, Power, Trim) at TOC and LPAT at BOD.
On the original thread topic I have also noticed that as my hours go up (along with confidence and, I hope, skill) I fly the AC less and guide it more if that makes sense. On my recent nav once I'd trimmed out for cruise and set my track I was able to fly the AC largely hands off with just small rudder inputs and attention to throttle setting to fine tune.
Cheers
Chris