Thanks to those that have posted links to their own work! Speak, you are correct, the videos aren't much for anyone but family. But this may serve as a community of creators that can share ideas. I've gotten a few already from watching the provided links.
Editing does take a TON of time. The more advanced you get, the more time you spend. I'm now spending about 10 hours on a finished product of 20-30 minutes. But I don't view it as work. It is therapy time. It is a canvas for art just like any other form. The time I spend is relaxing and gives a creative outlet.
derh20: I started on a PC laptop with Windows Moviemaker. I found it to be frustrating at best. It may have been my hardware or the fact that I was a newb. I don't know. I switched to a 27" Mac and iMovie back in 2014. I have logged in 100's of hours (if not a thousand) editing on it and it has NEVER not worked flawlessly! I'm super impressed. The Mac is the reason that editing became a joy and a hobby. I'm sure others can say the same about other platforms, but I couldn't.
After 3 years on iMovie, my talents have outgrown the software. Just a few days ago I purchased Final Cut ProX. This is the semi-professional software from Apple ($300). My wife didn't hesitate to allow it, as she enjoys the films I've done so far. The transition has been "okay". I can get things done, but the options are a bit overwhelming right now. I'm looking forward to the possibilities and expect to know the software well after 40-50 hours.
My suggestion, based on experience, get something Apple and use iMovie (free) until you outgrow it. I was able to do everything you see in my links with it, so it is more powerful than you would expect for free.
On another note, today I am building a homemade stabilizer rig for my DSLR. It cost $10 of PVC parts. I hope to reduce the handheld effect and smooth things out a bit.
