Linux

While this blog is mainly about ReactOS and its windows like operating environment, It's worth pointing out a few Linux distributions (distro's) which I also advocate,

check out the www.distrowatch.com which links to pretty much every linux version ever.

my choices would be

Ubuntu (or Kubuntu / Lubuntu)
A very friendly system and easy to get into, comes packaged with firefox, open office, gimp, various versions of a messaging service, torrent service... pretty much everything to get going from square one.

Mint
I like the aesthetics of this distro, comes with 'the usual' packaged software

Puppy
A lightweight and extremely easy going operating system offering 'no frills' but still packs enough extra's that's its worthwhile.

A mention goes to 'Damn Small Linux' which offers a LOT considering its download size and can easily be set to boot from a USB pen.