Ok; actually, I do the same and, in addition, I rarely attack any kingdom but instead wait for the AI to attack me. That really might be a problem with Aragon - France, Spain, and the Alms really like to attack you often two at once.

On a different note - wish the game had Burgundy even if unplayable as they were a big factor in early and the following time span. Savoy would have been nice too (but then, the fakey "Italy" that didn't exist would have to go :) ).