Don't feel bad CL8. It could be worse. For example on some GM cars the battery is under the rear passenger seat or worse yet in a place where it is hard to service or replace like on the Dodge Stratos models.
Here is one that has the battery on the opposite side of the engine compartment. The alternator is located at the area of the passenger side strut tower. This pic is a '02 Olds Alero with 3400 V6.
