You are probably right. I prefer an additive process i.e. install what I want from a clean install.

Every time I grab a Mac, I have to remove all the crap from it (Garageband, iPhoto etc). It's easier to drop the restore CD in and reinstall it from scratch without all the junk (and don't tell me to just leave it there as it takes up valuable space on an Air SSD).

First, deleting iLife apps is as simple as dragging the particular app you don't want to the Trash and then emptying the trash, no significant uninstall process required. I'd hardly call that a significant issue to whine about.

Second, you claim you have an Air and that you're dropping in a restore CD. Does not compute.

Easy with the hyperbole.

USB CD drive. TBH we lost the little restore stick in the sofa!