since you have a desktop, get decent average laptop(dual core, 2gb ram, big HDD, internal cd/dvd-rw-unless you don't mind lugging an external one, wireless card, and comfy keyboard).I tried coding in eeepc 7" screen and it didn't get me far. I used 12" asus ultraportable running linux for years and they are good and has pretty solid build. Unless you're getting a linux certified one or buying from a linux-laptop vendor, chances are some features won't work. I just recently switched to 17" mbp because my coding activity has demanded it (more horsepower and screen real estate), but keeping my 12" for fun hacking and cracking. Both lappies has one thing that's very important for coders: NICE keyboard. That being said, choosing a personal laptop is like choosing a GF/BF: it's personal, only you know your coding habit and which feature is the most important for you.
MS will die a slow and painful death over the years if it doesn't change the way it does business and treatments towards its customers and other developers. MS also needs more innovation and invention rather than milking their ancient products. If MS takes over Yahoo and force its brand on Yahoo, it will take Yahoo down with it. Reinventing their image and mission as a company is probably a better and cheaper way than forcing to take over Yahoo.
I have to disagree. There is a main goal, there are implications. We need to solve both of them to deliver good/great product or at least have proper precaution. Every now and then I remind myself about vista problem and how they got class action lawsuit.
I found Core Python Programming by Wesley J. Chun is the best python book so far that I requested the university library to get it (among couple other books) for my research.
I started with Beginning Python: From Novice to Professional. Extremely helpful and easy to follow book, since I already have few languages in my repertoire.
After you are comfortable with python and its syntax then get some python cookbooks.
