To all the newbies: Don't let being a newbie stop you from entering in the monthly challenges. I entered the last challenge with only 6 weeks experience. Even though I knew I wouldn't win, I knew I was going to learn. Just being able to finish my model was satisfaction enough. I learned tons in the process. And IT WAS REALLY FUN! I did see some past challenges where the newbies were judged separately (I think).

Eventually I won't be a newbie anymore (starting to feel that way now) and my skills will have improved giving me better chances to win.