[hcobb]

How about this for an Alternate XP progression schedule:

Attribute increase attempts always cost 100XP.

You pay 100 XP, name the attribute you are attempting to increase and roll 8 dice. If the total rolled is greater than your current attribute total you increase the named stat by one. Otherwise better luck the next time you've saved up 100XP.

Giants automatically increase their ST by one point on each birthday.

Gargoyles get a bonus roll (wanted or not) to attempt to increase their ST by one point on each even birthday.

Reptile People and Centaurs get a bonus roll (wanted or not) to attempt to increase their ST by one point on each third birthday. (21, 24, 27, ....)

Halflings, Goblins and Elves roll against 7 dice for ST attempts.
Dwarves roll against 7 dice for DX attempts.
Hobgoblins and Gargoyles roll against 7 dice for IQ attempts.