So, have you decided? Still using PDA or blackberry or whatever to type?
Yes, my Android phone right now.
I should have access to a computer this weekend where I can really check out all the great leads you guys have been kind enough to find for me. 
I do have a computer at work, but it has that surf control thing and I can’t access a lot of sites, including this one.
Tisha, I found your email and emailed you back. And thanks for the tip on the MacBook, I’ll definitely keep that in mind.
I would recommend Dell. You can either customize your own or check out the Outlet on their website until you find something that fits what you’re looking for. Some people don’t like Dell but in my experience their laptops have much better builds then most in terms of durability. I got a great deal on a refurbished laptop and it ran good through several years of heavy use until I eventually sold it (my roommate had a computer and I was short on cash…had nothing to do with the computer itself). It was practically indestructible.
What’s your primary use for your laptop? If it’s for gaming or graphics(pics/vids), then look for a laptop with those features enhanced or geared towards those features, including the programs that come preloaded. If you’re using Wi-Fi for your connection, look for one that might have that feature stepped up on it compared to other brands. Also, look for a laptop that has a long battery life, especially if you take it on the go with you all the time. And don’t forget about the amount of heat generated by laptops. Find one that has a better cooling system or is more energy-efficient. Ask yourself if you have to have a certain size screen or if you can do with a laptop with a 1" smaller screen. That can literally save you hundreds of dollars. And while you’re looking for your laptop, look for accessories that will help you protect your computer better (i.e.- screen guards, corner bumper pads, padded case, etc.).
When you do find one you like, check & compare prices with the 5 top online electronic stores & print out the features for each one. If you decide to purchase from a local store, take those printouts with you to make sure that the computer you look at in-store has the same features, programs, etc. You can often bargain with the store, telling them you can get a better deal online in regard to price, features, programs, etc. You could get what you want for an even lower price since most stores & sales reps want to make an instant sale.
If you’re not in a hurry to get the laptop, you might want to check for any upcoming sales. Ask the store managers if they’re going to be having any major or clearance sales coming up in the next month or two.
Another way to save money is to tell the store manager or one of the computer sales clerks what you’re looking for & let them know that if someone returns a new laptop that has the features you want, to contact you about buying it. People often return an item because they either don’t like it, don’t know how to operate it properly or they’d rather have the money instead of the gift that got.
Just some ideas to consider.
Wow, those are great tips, thanks! Wish you could go computer shopping with me…
I ended up just going with a Dell, since they are decent computers, plus I do still have my credit account with them from before. Its no Toughbook, thats for sure, but its still pretty nice.
Thanks again for all your help and advice!
I hope you didn’t pay a lot for it. How much did you get it for?
Around $500.