As it's difficult to get around to everyone's thread, and since this one contains links to my own story, I think I'm going to try hanging out on this thread for awhile. I'd be happy to answer any questions anyone has, with just a couple of requests.
I do NOT want to get into a debate with anyone about my approach. It is what worked for me -- nothing more, nothing less. I'm not going to recommend anything that's anti-DB, and in fact many of MWD's techniques have helped me greatly. I just don't want the meta "noise" to distract from trying to help anyone with their sitch.
I, in turn, will be 100% honest with you, warts and all. Maybe the mistakes I made can help someone else avoid them, or at least speed up their process a little bit, and hopefully the successes I had will be of help to someone.
