I use my logitech remote (you'll need a learning remote) this way, you can set up a device (I called mine control all) that will control things the way you want... just set it up as the device that most of the buttons are for (probably the cable box) then have the remote learn the functions for the other device (probably power and volume related buttons assigned to the tv). You may be left without being able to access the menu for the tv, but really, is she going to need that? Mine functions perfectly for controlling the cablebox/dvr, tv and amplifier, I do have to either set up another device or keep another remote around for the DVD player though.

Actually there probably have been a fair number who have been affected by it, unfortunately, it's when they try to play their songs in WMP and it won't play them, so they curse it as shitty software and go back to iTunes.

You can get gas without paying the gas tax... it's not easy to find in metropolitan areas, but you do see it in rural areas. A special dye is added to it... and if you get caught using it in on-road vehicles, you get a heavy fine... but who would be checking that?