I am really sick of Windows Fax and Scan.

I cannot send a fax because of some write protection BS message. And it has always been a huge hassel.

I used to be a very happy user of Winfax, before Symantec bought it.

Does anyone know of a good, free software for my Agere based LSI USB modem?

I only use it like once every couple of years, but if I do, I need to send some important documents quickly without fuss.

I wonder if all their enhancements to Thunderbird will also be freely available (and where)?

I know, that's why I have a Lenovo Thinkpad SL410 with a 14 in screen. It was a great deal and it has been very good.

14 inch screensize I found optimal for travelling - you can even watch a movie and won't strain your eyes too much when reading or working. But when I am somewhere for a few months I always buy a monitor and then use the Thinkpad as a desktop with the monitor plugged into the HDMI port.