Thousands of half-presses later, I'm still learning and enjoying every minute of it. I'll often read of technically perfect photography while browsing galleries of artistically masterful photographs. I find this to be a balance between the two contrasting mindsets in photography. I've never found myself to be artistically inclined, but my eye is slowly evolving.
For me, it's not about the ability to capture a memory forever or share an experience or create a print someone will pay thousands for. It's about the fun I have learning and exercising my brain and teaching my eyes.
I love the technology involved too. It's the best combination of mechanical engineering and computer technology available to a consumer. Theoretically there is no need for a mechanical shutter to fire but it still does and the sound and feeling cannot be replaced. There's no need to know how a metal oxide semiconductor records a photon as an electron pulse but there is something to be said for a thorough understanding of the equipment used.
If for nothing else, it helps with Trivial Pursuit.
Nikon D50 and me