Complete novice with Mac!

Hi, I'm new to this board and new to macs so please be gentle with me!!
I recently bought a macbook whilst on holiday in the USA (live in UK) at an Apple store, and having used windows for over 10 years, really wanted to try a mac, mainly because I am fed up of all the security/virus issues with microsoft.
I'm getting about ok I think, but am probably using very little of the machine's potential!
So, firstly, can you recommend a simple step by step book that will help me out. Secondly, I bought iLife06 with it (bought on 3rd Aug) not knowing that iLife 08 was imminent. Is there anyway I can get it upgraded, bearing in mind that I am now back in the UK.
Many thanks!
Rhian

Ay Rhian,
If you understood windows, you understand macs. They operate much the same in that both operating systems are intuitive. The differences, in transition, are minimal. As you become more familiar with apple OS, you will discover that you are less restricted. The best way to learn new programs and possibilities is to play with your new mac; to aid you in this endeavor (don't buy a book) consult some or all of the following:
http://guide.apple.com/
http://www.macworld.com/
http://www.microsoft.com/mac/ (mactopia bought out by microsoft)
These sites will provide useful info and updates for your new mac. If you prefer books, there are links on all of the above sites to purchase a book, or better yet, to download a podcast of pertinent info.
Hope this helps and enjoy,
B

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Boilerplate text:
Reset Preferences
http://forums.adobe.com/thread/375776
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or
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Hi,
I've just begun playing around with my laptop, but am running into problems while moving things around and off of my external hard drive.
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Message was edited by: Rachel Whitfield
Message was edited by: Rachel Whitfield

Rachel,
Disk Utility is in your "Utilities" folder (of course). Here's how we do this:
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Well, I have had my iPod for about 3 years, it is a 4th generation non-video 40 GB. One day it just stopped working, and now it does not play any songs. when I turn it on it makes this odd whirring sounds that computers make when they try really hard to do something. I cannot charge it, and it is not recognized by iTunes. Also when I turn it on, I get the apple.com/ipod/support (or whatever it is) screen. Needless to say, my warranty is expired, and so I cannot do anything for it except get a new battery, or buy a new one. Is there any way to fix this problem, or anyone out there who is experiencing the same thing?
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