mouser, I've heard the same about Ubuntu, from a guy who works on computers, even installs Linux, and highly recommends them..BUT..he was saying the same thing about Ubuntu as you are saying, He recommends Linux 'Mint'....so he tried it on a laptop, that blew an XP and "Golly Me...it works just great!!" Get rid of the Ubuntu, and get "Mint". He also HIGHLY recommends Linux over Microsoft.
...and for God's sakes, if you don't like the recommendation, let's not bitch at each other over it, OK?..just tryin' to help ya'