I'm finding that having the right tools is important, too. A good mechanic doesn't try to fix everything with a pair of pliers, so why do I think I can? So I'm slowly buying more tools.
I took up commuting 5 years ago, which was my first serious cycling activity and still mostly all I do. I trust my LBS guy pretty well, not always completely satisfied, but I think he's a nice guy and is doing a good job as the new owner. However, for me, it's an issue of not having it tied up in the shop for days in the shop's repair backlog. (Although I do have a backup bike.) Plus the feeling of independence and competence I'm starting to feel from doing my own wrenching, even though I'm still not that great at it.
But thank god for the Internet and Bike Forums!
