Uhg I hate it when they say "well just try harder". Like it is that simple. And it insinuates that you haven't been trying hard enough. But it sounds to me like you have been trying damn hard.

I just read where you said she said she was disappointed. Ouch!!! I would have gone off my head right then if it were me (but then again I have no self control, lol). She sounds like she is trying to be your critical parent or something - you know those people who tell you to "hit yourself with a stick - it'll toughen you up a bit" type thing.