I finally bit the bullet and took the test. Passed on the first go with AT/AT/AT. I used the PM Prepcast videos to get a foundation and 35 PDUs (Cornelius made learning this stuff as fun as possible), read Rita's PMP Exam Prep book to get deeper into the material, and most importantly I got PMI's Study Hall and did all the practice questions and exams. I'm glad it's over and that I will get a raise and promotion for it (my employer requires it and thankfully pays for it).
That said, I stand by my previous statements. I still see no value in the PMP cert aside from possibly making you more competitive in the PM market and potentially increasing your salary. This was an exhausting exercise in learning PMI's ambiguous language and processes, not one that gave me any significant insight or practical skills on being a better PM. The exam itself tests you on your ability to take a standardized exam.
Anyway, thanks for helping me get through this Cornelius. You're an awesome instructor!
