>>Well, I got a 2000+ (1.67 ghz) for around 850. Current top of the line AMD processor is the 2200+. That'll cost around 1,600 with what I mentioned above.
>>
>Yes, I'll have to weigh out the options here and try to get as much bang I can for the buck while staying "state-of-the-art" enough so I get 2-3 years out of the machine. :-)

Only 2-3 years? I tend to go about five, myself. If I recall correctly, by the end of this month, there should be another round of price cutting on CPUs. If you watch the Sunday newspaper circulars, you should be able to find something that both affordable and gives you the bang for the buck you're looking for.

>>Went to Gatlinburg myself. This past weekend was spent moving Zack (our youngest) to Carrollton (West Georgia State Univ.).
>
>Yeah, we like Gat. too. It's a fun place to go. Last time we were there stayed at Eight Gables B&B Inn. Really liked it.

We've stayed at a B&B and regular motels. This last time, we stayed at the Fairfield Inn on River St. Balcony overlooking the river. Mickey really liked it.

>Oh-oh, he's gonna get some higher level book-larnin' huh? Just general for now or does he know what he wants to do?

Doesn't have a clue as what he wants to do. All he knows is that he wants to be rich. He'll do OK.