I trade at $6.95 a trade. Maybe I'm nuts but I don't consider it a major factor.

Part of this is to create income. Part of it is the game.

I think a portfolio of 10 stocks would bore the hell out of me.

That would depend on the stocks. There's nothing boring about Aurelian - this thing's like the roller coaster at the PNE! (and I hate roller coasters). I've learned a huge amount about Ecuador in the process. Prior to Aurelian I could have found it on the map and told you the capital was Quito, but that's about it.

I had a conversation with a S. African geologist at the last gold show and we got to talking shop. I mentioned that the best part of junior investing was how much fun it was, and his eyes just lit up. I don't think he'd heard anyone say that for a long time, but it's true. If you take the proper precautions and do your homework it IS a lot of fun.

I envy people whose occupation is also their avocation. I plan to rectify that situation in a couple of years when I retire (on the early plan - I'm 52 and still have a lot of energy left in me)

ebear