Count me in on all counts.
I loved flying before I could walk.
I prefer to fly myself and have been doing so since I was 18. As others have mentioned it is quite costly, even in a shared ownership situation. Unfortunately with children my funds often get "diverted." The major difference for me is the sense of pride when flying a difficult approach in low weather.
My fun and enjoyment of commercial travel waxes and wanes. Periods of heavy business travel mixed with bad weather and delays can test my love of flying. Although at the same time, I have profound respect for the job the folks up front do. I guess knowing how the sausage is made also allows one appreciate good sausage.
I still have the boyish thrill of looking out the window and watching the world pass by or watch earth slip away and return.