I agree with what everyone else has posted on this topic, and would like to drop in my (late, I know!) thoughts.
I was out of the scene for over ten years, only returning to old VW's in 2011. What is noticeable to me is the hike in prices for parts and cars. There is a distinct danger of it becoming a rich man's hobby. It's also easier to become habitual in our feelings towards events, "it's the beginning of May, so it must be Stanford Hall". This is true across any interest, not just the VW hobby. That said, it must be difficult for event organisers to continually bring new ideas to meetings, but we should keep supporting them. I take part in generic classic car events, but as I'm in Scotland, there is only one VW show each year, and local classic meetings give me the chance to take the car out, and to make others aware that there is a thriving VW scene.
However on the plus side it is much easier to buy good quality parts that it was even ten years ago. I've used Wolfparts, Klassic Fab panels, panels by Steve Hook and Wolfsburg West in the restoration of my Oval, and I think the car will be better for it. Of course it would have been nice to use NOS parts, but they are seriously expensive, and not as easy to come by. At least we have dedicated specialist parts available should we decide to use them.
I would urge you to keep your cars, put them away by all means if you feel you'd like a break. I sold my cars, and had to start over again when I got back into it. It wasn't altogether easy to get the car I wanted, but eventually I did. You guys have spent the time, money and effort in getting your cars, keep them.:beer:
Gavin.