I have a Mac desktop and laptop, and experience far fewer computer worries than my husband, who has a non-Mac laptop.

One of the programs I like is iTunes. I can listen to my favorite CDs and downloads, and radio stations from all over, while I'm on the computer.

First thing's first--did you buy the AppleCare extended service option? I think that was one of the best things I spent my money on. My MacBook wasn't a lemon or anything--it just had a very sensitive disk drive, and some of the CDs I wanted to import into my computer were giving it issues. Overnight, they changed out the disk drive. I also have one a bottom-line MacBook--the white one. And a recurrent problem with some of them is a hairline crack where the magnets in the top lid meet the bottom--it aligns right where the magnets would be, as well as where the base of your hand, or the heel of it, frequently rests. To the best of my knowledge and research, Apple has never formally issued a recall on that, and it doesn't affect the operation of the computer, only the stability of the "packaging" and obviously the looks of the laptop. I printed out a few complaints and brought them into the store, expecting to have to press my case. But no worries whatsoever--they replaced it within a day or two.

A friend who has had a MacBook pro for several years just had to replace the battery in it. The guy at the "Genius Bar" (that phrase is kinda weird, but they do know their stuff) knew her AppleCare was about to run out, but she hadn't backed her stuff up yet. He took care of her, gave her the extra time. (And if you have to take your computer in but have forgotten to back up, or don't have an external hard drive, they'll do it for you, but not for free.)

OK, so... pretty sure iTunes and iPhoto are already good to go once you plug in and register your computer, and sign up for your related accounts (iTunes, esp, cuz you might want to download from the iTunes store--either buying music, video, movies, tv episode or downloading free stuff).

I'd think about adding the Windows-for-Mac software and if you are a big photo-taker, an upgraded software package for editing both photos and video. iPhoto makes it super-simple to do photo books, greeting cards, etc., too!

The Apple Store (online/or in person) has some interesting games, if you're into video gaming.

One thing to know is that there is a whole lot more software out there for PCs than Macs. But truly, there's not a whole lot of stuff I need to do with my MacBook that I needed to purchase extra software for. It had just what I needed, not a lot of extra built-in stuff filling up the hard drive.

Me, too. I have a MacBook Pro and it came with everything I need to use. I love iPhoto. It's so easy to download pictures from my camera. I've had Macs since 1984 when they first came out. They generally don't get any viruses and are easy to use. Of course, I mainly use my computer for email and getting on the internet. I don't need any more distractions than that!! LOL I hope you like yours.

I have a MacBook and with the exception of Microsoft Office I didn't need to buy software. I also don't worry about Anti-virus software. I've had Macs at home and at work since 1986 with no virus problems. Can't say that about PCs. Macs may cost more to buy but they far outlast PCs.

Linda

I would love to get one my next computer....Syd has the mac book and Tan has the desktop....last years Christmas! STacy

Love my MAC book! Nanny

Thanks for the suggestions. Yes, the macs sure do come with a lot of good stuff, including i-tunes. I guess we're pretty much set then! I'm surprised how small the keyboard is and it feels good to use too, unlike the laptop (to me.)

I forgot to ask: What size screen did you get? Because if it's a larger one, they sell hardware/connections and such that will allow you to run your TV connection--cable or satellite--through it and you can watch your shows on it! (It's not just a Mac thing, PC users can do this, too.) This would be great if the the computer is in a hobby room or a guestroom and you want to be able to do sewing and watch TV at the same time. Very cool!

I concur with pammyfay: Buy Apple Care. My mac is less than 2 years old and has had a new logic board and 2 new hard drives. I hate to say it, but I probably won't be buying another Mac. I have had other (wondows OS)laptops that last years with very heavy use and travel and never had a hardware failure. I suppose I may have a lemon, but they would not discuss replacement, even at the 3rd major failure.
Definitely get Apple Care.

Oh yes, I forgot to say that we did get the Apple Care. It's a crime that we have to buy these "extended warranties," not just for computers but for many things. Just another way to get us to pay more for poorly-made appliances, etc. (Yes, I'm cynical and believe electronics, etc. are made to break within a few years.)

I have a MacMini and am very happy with it, especially not having that huge dust catcher on the floor. We are going to look at an iPad today :-) DH is sick of his slower-than-molasses Gateway laptop and just yesterday returned his Pandigital Novel e-reader because of a multitude of malfunctions (first generation).

Here is a link that might be useful: MacMini

Wow, gardenspice, I'm sorry to hear of your malfunctions. Since my first Apple computer - a //c that I got in 1984, I've never had a hardware problem. I've had a probably a half a dozen Macs over these last 25 years and never had a hardware problem. It's one of the reasons I've been a loyal Apple Computer customer. And now that they have Apple stores, I can get help with questions or buy new equipment quickly and painlessly. Apple rocks!!