Here's the ultimate thread. Lindsey is trading in her PC (HP should stand for Horrible Product) and she has an option of going to a MAC right now. I'm looking for people that know about Mac's since I've never used one, never upgraded one, and have ZERO experience with them.

T-Mo, JFord, Donald, other graphics/photographers: I especially want your opinion as she is starting up her own photography stuff and would be most likely using this for picture editing and storing of pictures.

So a few questions about the following:
  1. Software (antivirus/spyware protection, photo editing software, internet, money managing {Quicken}, instant messaging)
  2. Hardware replacement (If something goes out, can I go to newegg and just plug in the new part?)
  3. Upgradability (processor, RAM, hard drive)
  4. Will it be obsolete in 2 months like PC's??
Finally, for what she's going to be using it for, would YOU buy a MAC or PC??