Starting Linux, Ubuntu build

Currently, there are two weeks before I begin summer courses so I thought I would throw myself into Linux once again for giggles. I am very satisfied with WindowsXP but with crappy internet online games are a pain. So in addition to random crap I'll post my thoughts and links if necessary on here detailing my experiences in research, community, installing and working with Linux as a whole.

My past dealings with Linux have reminded me to do some research before jumping in. But in the past five years or so since I last tried it, things have much improved, at face. So let me start by explaining a bit of what I know right now:
Linux is an operating system, which is an open source build(meaning free and the user able to change it without patent issues). As I understand it it is based upon Unix system but that's not too important.
Ubuntu is a user friendly package which installs the Linux system on your computer. It is free to download of course. Think of Ubuntu as a 'shell' which covers the Linux 'core.' The Ubuntu installation covers partitioning and dual boot options for those of us wishing to keep our WindowsXP system.
Partitioning is the seperation of ones hard drive to make new drives or to install new operating systems seperately without affecting what you have now. A bit complicated but I'll know more once I install it this afternoon.

Ok, so once I get Ubuntu and Windows running good I'll post what I did and where to find help about a few specific things.

So I lied

Last week was it for finals. We'll see how it turns out! This past semester didn't turn out as well as I hoped, but that's just motivation for summer classes! Speaking of which, I need to pay for them...doh.

Anyrate, some more good news, NBC has struck a last minute deal with Wolf to continue Law & Order and it's spinoff series for at least another year!! YAY! Link: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,271974,00.html
Don't underestimate the sheer awesomeness of this tv production. For now, we can sleep easy. More later.
Derek

Spring Semester Ending

Despite a full week of exams next week, my advanced statistics teacher seems to believe a quiz is a fundamental ingredient for us. Weak. Some exceptional news however: no more intro to accounting class. Accounting's second course awaits me in the fall though. I singed up and paid for these courses on my own recognizance. Maybe I should get my head checked. More later.
Derek