Thanks. You are NOT the only one.
One of my workflow tips is (AFTER you have your story concept as you describe) to go through my R&D list of all the amazing tutorial pages (I keep a list with links handy… THANKS to gurus like you, Ali!) to be found on the web, and just piece together several new techniques to use in your animation. That way, you don’t overwhelm with too many possibilities and stay focused on how the effects and eye candy can support the story.