One of the things that is changing with my shift from one job to the next is that I am losing the laptop that I got through work. That is actually quite a big deal because I need a laptop so I can present my lectures when I teach on campus. I have also gotten used to the convenience of being able to work on all of my computer related stuff while sitting anywhere I want to when I am around the house or work or anywhere else.

So I am broke down and ordered a new laptop. Because I am able to get a discount because I work for our statewide library network, I decided to get a Dell. I have actually done a lot with Dells because the network bulk buys all of its computers through that company. I have never really had any trouble with them so I was happy to go with that route, particularly since I was also able to get a Dell credit card to use to buy the machine.

I have always liked having a good-sized screen. I have never understood the current desire to get smaller and smaller devices when you can get a big screen to look at things. Anyway, that is the main reason that I decided to go with Dell's X15 model, which has a 15-inch screen. One of the nice surprises is that the keyboard includes a number pad, which is really awesome news. That is a really helpful feature for me.

I spent a good chunk of my evening going through my work machine and transfering over my files (both personal and work-related). I also started installing all of the software that I generally use, and I think I finished all of that. I am excited to say that I think the transfer is fully finished, which is really exciting.

One of my new coworkers, who also happens to be a former student of mine and a regular patron at my current job, happened to come into work. She made me feel really good because she told me how much she, and a number of people she works with, were looking forward to me getting started at the new library. That is probably a good thing ... I start in 12 days!