Big "2" on USAA thinking they are high and mighty with total loyalty. I got laughed at by a customer service rep when I called to cancel my auto insurance. Quite a few of us in my Guard unit switched to Geico (USAA rates are ridiculous for Florida). The rep refused to believe that Geico would up my coverage and cut my premium by more than half. I refuse to go back now.
As far as alternative investments, I've started a business this year, and am about to put a second house up for rent. The wife works in a business run by her family and also makes a decent mint buying/ selling stuff on eBay, etsy, zulilly, etc. Baby clothes and accessories mostly. Gotta be creative these days. :)