We've just begun to do so and it's a much better product. I use the atachment on my KitchenAid mixer.

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2004/07/07/FDG3P7G6841.DTL

Hmmm, I have not tried this. However, I do have the KA mixer so I could get the attachment.

I've been known to occasionally grind my own spices. Not often, though, it's only a little cheaper than buying it.

I never do that.
My mom cooks everything so i need not to do that.
I cook very few occasion like if mom is not in home. My sister does that at that time.

Pepper is about the only thing we DIY here.