We have a FAQ here that will help you
BlackBerry Glossary - BlackBerryFAQ

For your other issues, you just need to decide what is best for you. I guess yours are the reasons that RIM stock is doing so horribly.

How often are you syncing, every five minutes? Do it once a day.

Honestly, an open mind might benefit you here some in adapting to a new device, technology and such. And if it is not what you need, enjoy your WM.