I think this is a very interesting thread. It shows how much the AP subject is, well, subjective.
For someone who lives on the outskirts of a (recently designated) city, with very modest equipment, I can only dream of making images this good.
I think it's crazy how our brains drive us sometimes. Even with my 'very poor' images (compared with yours @Rodd) I get frustrated but refuse to get sucked into the money pit that is AP.
Anyway, my point is, with all the variables involved with getting the 'perfect' image (from our own perspective, whatever that is), I think we may be too hard on ourselves sometimes... hobbies are meant to be enjoyable
Sorry, I know that probably didn't help!