Laptop pondering.

The power cord/supply on my laptop is on the fritz again. I've already replaced it four times, I think, and the last time was within the last couple months.

Combined with the fact that I'm about to get a bonus check from work, this is spurring me to replace my laptop. It's time.

For various reasons, switching to Mac is really not an option, though it's tempting. So I ask the general LJ braintrust: what are the good PC machines out there? I want something that's relatively light (under 6 pounds) -- I don't need the ultralight, though. I want something with decent graphics, though I don't need real high-end stuff, and with the usual sorts of things -- good processor, decent hard drive, CD/DVD burner, etc.

I've been considering the HP dv1000. Anyone know anything about the quality of HP machines/service? My current machine is a Dell Inspiron, and I have mixed feelings about the quality/service I've gotten. I know people with ThinkPads, and I've been thinking about that too.

Anyway, any advice would be appreciated.

Avatar silliness.

( Silly picture. )

Personal milestone.

Today's mail brought me the copies I'd pre-ordered of National Puzzlers' League Cryptic Crosswords. And right there, puzzle #36, is my first-ever published puzzle. (Cowritten with tahnan.)

This?

Is really, really cool.