So much is going on, where to begin. First, I'll start with WebSpark. I've had my issues with Microsoft programs in the past, but this one does make up some ground. First, I'll lead you to the place where I first heard of the program, Scott Guthrie's site.

The gist of the program is if you are a small company (less than 10 developers) and you are designing web sites for other companies, they'll give you development software for 3 years for $100 (and server software). If you decide to keep it, you'll pay $999, and even that is a bargain. You get upgrades (hint --> VS2010) as well. This is a huge deal with a very easy qualification.

On a personal front, I was bidding on some things on eBay, and needed to pay for them via PayPal. I haven't used either in years, primarily in that I got taken on eBay, and PayPal refused to help on my dispute. The advised me that they hoped I used my credit card so I can dispute that, as they were unable to help. Doesn't PayPal prefer our checking accounts?

The issue came about because I ordered a very expensive GPS system which had near realtime traffic updates. The listing described the GPS as in "mint, like new" condition (the words from the ad). The problem was, the seller decided to make a little extra money and sell the traffic antenna (costs $200 to replace) and not mention that in their description of "mint". When I contacted PayPal to dispute the issue (after the seller told me I was screwed), they were not helpful and refused my claim agreeing with the seller.  Apparently mint does not mean complete. Never again. Score one more victory (lost customer) for foreign customer service! I say that because the emails had some of the worst English I have ever seen. Ever. I should dig them out and post them kind of bad.

But alas, there are certain things you can only find on eBay, and PayPal is the only way to pay sometimes. I signed up for my account, and connected my credit card to it this time. However, as part of their verification process, they process a $1.95 charge, then you have to enter the code. At the bottom is a disclaimer, which seemed written by a 5 year old. To paraphrase, it went something like this:

"If you contact your credit card company to get this transaction information, and your credit card company complains to PayPal, your account may be cancelled." -- Nice...