follow-ups

We bought the Loblaws bags and the biodegradable dog-waste bags. I'll have to see how big an expense the extra purchase turns out to be, but I'm thinking we can absorb it without noticing it.

Also, as Ferdzy mentioned, even when you use fabric bags, you still end up with some number of plastic bags. We'll hoard those for non-recyclable household trash and dog pick-up.

I applied for the notetaking job! It's a lengthy screening and orientation process, but if they're smart, they'll hire me, because I'm perfect for this work. (Writers and editors in general would be.) They're hiring many people, so you're looking for work and this sounds right to you, email me for the 411. Full disclosure: I get a small referral bonus if you're hired.

I heart Craigslist! The notetaking work requires a laptop. Although it seems that everyone uses laptops these days, I work from a desktop, with a big flat-panel monitor, a keyboard tray, the works. I really prefer it for my primary computer.

I also have my beloved iPAQ handheld, not exactly practical for classroom notetaking. Allan uses a laptop, which I can use when we travel, so I've never needed one of my own.

Not knowing if notetaking will work out for me, I didn't want (and really can't afford) to buy a good new notebook, plus I need something very light because of issues with my joints. I posted a "wanted to buy" ad on Craigslist, yadda yadda yadda, yesterday I bought a ThinkPad in great condition, including a new wireless card, for $230. It's so nice and compact. I removed the battery, which I'll never use, to make it even lighter.

I thought I would pick up a wireless mouse, since I've never used a TrackPoint and assumed I would find it difficult. I'm useless with a touchpad, and I assumed the TrackPoint would be similarly difficult. To my surprise, I'm getting accustomed to it very quickly. I think soon I will actually prefer it.

Let's see... do I owe you updates on anything else?