Great input everyone, thanks, My daughter has an ipod already so I am thinking of involving that with the digital camera aspect (a possibility). Hadn't thought about the cd burning aspect of an ibook either as a mail home etc...interesting idea. On the other hand the old diary, film pictures thing is also attractive in a nostalgic sort of way (ready to hand). I have to talk with her on some of these ideas. All good feedback, all helping us understand and decide Thanks so much. cheers, tim