I totally agree. My case was filed around Nov. of 2007 and our interview was Feb. of 08. All I have is EAD and I got to renew that plus my DL yearly. They can literally put your life on hold, it's ridiculous. Without a green card, I can't work many places, can't travel freely out of the US, can't get federal grants/loans etc. It's really frustrating.
Just want to say I understand your frustration. Many people here share those difficulties. I've been unemployed due to my status (even though I got college degree), haven't been able to renew driver license etc. It's killing me everyday - no job, no driver license, no travel.
I hope things work out for you and please keep us updated.