Credit cards scare me mostly LOL. I have ONE, and I only use it to buy small things under $100.00, then when the bill comes in I write a check for the entire amount. Although sometimes I am late (mostly because of forgetfullness rather than not having money for a payment) and get hit with a $30.00 late fee LOL, doh!
I've never had the problems luckily you have had Mistral.

That Citibank (Shi**bank) problem you mentioned was really messed up, payment NOT going through?!! Wha?

The way I see it, that is THEIR fault, and THEY should have to deal with all that hassle regarding it, not you!