I do get you where you are coming from.  Of course there is nothing like owning the software.  My 8 year old cheapo computer doesn't have enough video memory for the 3d Manipulation but at least I can follow Sveva's tutorials without shame (Her tuts start at CS3).  It might be the wave of the future.  When you consider the improvements that come at a quicker rate and several times a year you might want to consider change.

You might have an advantage.  You do get the extra apps.  Plus that $108 a year would come in handy every December 25th.