h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Since Vista came out, I've been doing more research into it, and the direction Microsoft will be turning in the next few years. So, I've decided to switch to Linux. My hardware presents a number of problems, though. So, I think I'm going to have to empty one of my hard drives, connect it to my roomate's computer (which probably will be fine on both of the distributions I'm considering) and configure the distros with the drivers for my hardware, try them out on my computer to make sure they work, choose one, and then load it in a dual-boot configuration with Windows.

I have two Linux Users Groups that are easy for me to attend, and since I worked in the school of electrical engineering and computer science, I know lots of really sharp people--but they are all very busy.

Eventually, I'd like to dump Windows completely. I hope I can choose a good emulation application, or at least access my MS Office Pro stuff via OpenOffice.

I think I either want Knoppix or Kubuntu. But, so far all that works on my computer (as configured) is GoblinX (slackware). I think it would be fun to play around with the Beryl project. Maybe in a couple of years I can build a spiffy-er computer and network them.

This weekend, I got the fountain on the back patio set up and running. I also replaced the power supply in my roomate's computer. And pruned most of the winter damage out of the shrubbery. The cul-de-sac I live in will be having a joint garage sale on April 14, the day before tax day. So, I'm going through stuff to see what I can unload at that. By then, we should have a new shed built and I'll be able to move the remainder into it and stop paying for storage. That will be two Bills I'll have out of my life--Gates and storage.