buzz, i think that this is one of the most sensible posts i have read here in a while!! kudos to you...
you are right - Dazz is and exceptional case of where you can go with this with the right mix of determination/perspiration and perhaps a bit of luck (as much as he and i banged heads, i still respect him for what he has achieved).
But - it is the little people here, the mum and dad investors, the young folks just coming out of school, those of us who have started this journey after we got heavily into mortgage debt and kids and things and are now trying with very small steps that impress me the most...they are the real stories of small victories and inspiring journeys.
So Louise and others like you, please continue to post your experiences and journeys - you are more valuable here than you can ever know!!