Many of the people I know are familiar with using there computer for surfing the web, checking their email and getting the weather forecast. What most people don’t realize is that there are thousands of uses for a personal computer - not just checking email or your bank balance - that can make your computer more than a basic weather station. Listed below are some ideas of things that you can do with your personal computer that will help you have fun, get organized and explore your creativity!

• Play a game either with yourself, against the computer or online against other people.


• Create a mailing list for print mailing labels when sending cards or invitations.


• Maintain an electronic address book which is easier to keep updated than a paper version. Once created the address can printed for the traditional users.


• Maintain an electronic calendar that can be access or over the Internet.


• Get a phone that will synch your calendar and address book so you always have it with you.


• Research your family tree.


• Write your memoirs.


• Create and print personalized return address labels.


• Digitize and organize your photos.


• Go green by receiving and paying bills online.


• Keep track of finances by creating a budget.


• Create an inventory of household items in case of a disaster (insurance purposes).


• Lookup an old friend online.


• Design and print customized greeting cards for all occasions.


• Invest in a scanner and digitize important documents.


• Write the book you have always dreamed about!.


• Balance your checkbook.


• Input and organize your recipes - print to make a great personalized gift!


• Design and print customized gift tags.


• Watch TV and movies online (many times commercial free!).


• Download and organize your email.


• Create to-do and grocery lists.


• Download and print coupons.


• Document garden design and layout.


• Take online classes and get your degree or expand your current skills.


• Paint a digital picture.


• Make a movie.


• Copy your CD’s and make new music mixes.


• Create photo album that you can upload to share or print for a great gift!