But – if I had a computer solely for entertainment and the only occasional letter or work usage- that is a fantastic idea.
Free virus scan software is also readily available and widely used by those who are adventurous and less paranoid about timely patches/updates (like me…although perhaps I’m a sucker?).

Thanks again!

If you take exception to my views and convictions, which, admittedly, are very strong on certain topics, it would serve you better to rebut my statements instead of, essentially, calling me a mean girl.

@ Louise: If your employer buys bulk software licenses from companies like Microsoft and Adobe, you should check if you can take advantage of their Home Use Programs. I recently switched from PC to Mac and was able to purchase Office 2008 for Mac for $11 through the Microsoft HUP. I also bought the backup DVD for another $12.

If HUPs are not available to you, a friend mentioned to me Microsoft programs get discounted greatly at London Drugs during Boxing Day. Last year, three licenses for MS Office Pro 2007 were on sale for ~$40.

Of course, if you’re more adventurous, Open Office is available for free.

I am the last person to comment or dictate on what people should spend their money on but that’s not what my comments were on at all. Buy as many movie tickets as you want, or as few if you think the price is too high. As for name calling, I’m not convinced that either Ann nor myself did that.

PS Jane – There is a huge difference between downloading a movie without paying for it and buying it and handing it to a friend to watch. The difference is that with sharing, the first person paid good money for it legitimately, and can’t view it while it’s the hands of someone else. For a similar reason, a DVD costs the same to buy if you live alone (and will be the only one to watch it) or have a family of 6 at home.

Piracy is illegal in Canada Kim. Tell your daughter to check out the Copyright Act of 1921, amended many times. Now, some tv stations will broadcast versions of their shows on their website, that’s not the same thing as piracy at all and is perfectly fine. But we’re talking about copyright holders who do not authorize the transmission.

I’m not sure if anyone has already mentioned this, and I’m posting this very late, but here it is.

If you are employed at a University or College, or are a student (ie: you have an employee or student card), look into the University/College bookstore’s prices for computer programmes, computers etc. Sometimes, the discounts are very good – when my computer crashed recently and I needed to buy a new system + software. I was able to buy Microsoft Office for $70 instead of $150 (or thereabout!) being offered in a regular store.

Become familiar and use store loyalty cards wisely! (ie: use them, but don’t get canoodled into spending more than you need).
I get rewards back by using my Shoppers Drugmart Optimum Card: If you tend to buy stuff regularly at drugstores (monthly supplies, diapers, creams, sunscreen, shampoo, shavers etc.) – it pays to wait, write a list, and buy everything in bulk on their optimum bonus reward days (about once per month). You eventually rack up reward points. My card is at $150 now — and once per month, they have reward booster days which increase one’s reward dollars ($150 becomes $200). I use these to buy more expensive items about once per year!

This may not be very exciting tips, but it’s something!

Please take the time to re-read my post. The intent of my post was to remind everyone that Gail’s original post was to highlight some things that we may over-pay for. For some, and as the value of an item is a subjective thing, movie prices are one of those things that are over-priced. I DID NOT STATE THAT I FEEL THAT WAY.

Nor did I, in any way, condone nor condemn anyone who partakes in downloading movies on the internet. What I did ask is that folks stay on topic and not turn Gail’s original post into a banter of the legal arguments of P2P downloads. I also asked people to please agree to disagree with others and to not judge others.

I do in fact enjoy a night out at the movies. I love it actually and believe that movies are meant to be seen on the big screen. My favorite screen is actually the IMAX, and I gladly pay more to see it. And I love the fact that the IMAX technology is Canadian. Thumbs up! And while I do not fell that I overpay whenever I see an IMAX movie, I do understand how some people may feel that the price is too much.

If you want to debate the moral and legal aspects of torrent downloads, please post your arguments on a torrent site.