Brain surgery and zombies in the same thread!? Coincidence?
Although what you mention is a large part of why I am enjoying this hobby so much. Trying to get my tricopter's ESCs programmed, adjusting gyro sensitivity, realizing I needed to use a heli model rather than acro so I could get a throttle curve....the combination of frustrating and fun leave you with a great sense of accomplishment once you finally figure it out and everything works!
I know the motivation is different for everyone, but for me personally, if I didn't have to tinker and mess with my stuff all the time I wouldn't be having nearly as much fun.
I think it was this very concept that caused me to crash both my planes this morning. I had three perfect days of flying, which the flying gods decided was a little too much too soon.
I tore the gear and motor mount off my Diablo foamie attempting an inverted pass, and for some reason the motor mount and motor on my ExAir-style 'RedHawk' decided to part with the plane in flight. The only disappointment was I had to stop flying for the morning. The good news is now I have something to work on tonight!
I totally want to join FEWGoRCP!!!