They're great until they decide to inexplicably break down, of course. 
Yes I'm having that problem with mine actually, however, it's most likely because it's around 5 years old and running on outdated software. Ahh what I wouldn't give for a Black MacBook!!
I totally know what you mean.
Speaking of backgrounds, it might interest you to know that I have a portrait of Queen Victoria as mine! RULE BRITANNIA!
That's so Windsorian of you!
ha ha! I thought it was time for a change.