Relief
After three weeks, I have my MacBook back and it has not shutdown for the past couple of days. I will be more optimistic if, in a couple of months, I can say the same thing.
I am happy to have the machine back, but I look back at my repair experience with frustration. I have learned two things, 1) extended AppleCare support is definitely not worth the $250 Apple wants for it (I am thankful that I did not buy it), and 2) all computers suck, so why not look at a Dell (and save some dough)? Though, I guess there are still levels of suckage, I would not look at a Dell Dimension or Inspiron. So instead of paying $250 for AppleCare (that is twice what I paid for my last Sony extended warranty for a more expensive machine) I will put it towards a desktop. That, I think, is better protection. Granted, it is only a drop in the bucket towards a decent desktop, but still makes more sense to me now.
Would I buy an Apple again? Yes. Would I buy a model from a brand new Apple product line again? Not within the first six months of release. It is sad that I am now actually considering buying a Dell.
Good Luck to everyone still suffering!