So, windows xp embedded sucks

Never. Ever. Try to install windows xp embedded on anything.

Been fighting the process for a few days.

I finally got close, guess what? blue screen of death... I suppose thats good, at least I got that far.

Solution? Use remote desktop into an xp machine that you have access to if/when you need some windows-ness.

Try to install a linux distro on a eee 900? about 10 minutes, mostly to find a usb drive (not counting install time).