Think i have made considerable progress compared to that of four months ago. For me no doubt the D60 is the key to my improvement. I can't image what if I don't have a DSLR - maybe need 2 years to achieve my present status. However, I rate myself as an average (or below?) skilled photographer cos there are still lots of things to learn.
This is a wonderful and challenging hobby, i would say
Doubt it as us "in-house Pro's" all know our areas of weakness and strength ... frankly none of us would be that egotistical .. a few of the amateurs I can think of might be though.