Software can be expensive.

I have been looking at my purchases of software utilities and tools I've made over the past couple of years, and I realize that they can definitelly add up!

For example, a screen capture utility like SnagIt will set you back $49 dollars! and then you have to update every couple of years... Multiplicity Pro ($50.00) to use one keyboard /mouse to control mutliple computers . NeoPro ($50.00)for mail management. Trillian ($25) the multi-IM client. Why did I need to purchase again WinZip ($30)- when it is now recognized by the OS?

Now do not get me wrong, I love these tools and without them, frankly, I would go nuts (or maybe bananas!)

Over the next few weeks, I will try to get all of the same functionality with freeware and/or open source software -- I will let you know how I do...