Hi Clif ....

I received a freeware Google alert directing me to PC World where I found several XP based freebie downloads that simulate some of Vista "Windoze" fanciful graphical features. Without having to break open your piggy bank and purchase the new and improved bug infested Vista ( making Billy Gates richer) these applications will make the XP perform like the new Windows operating system. It appears these free downloads have been around since 2005. Surprised I haven't picked up on them sooner. Oh well, better late then never. Reminds me of The Who's classic lyric, " My name is Tommy, and I became aware this year."

Perhaps you are already conscious of these goodies, if not here is a brief description of each app. and the download sites.

I just don't have the time right now to install all of them and review, maybe someone in your readership will take up the task. In what limited spare time I do have, I did install ( DesktopSidebar ) and monkeyed around with it.

As always... have fun. Cheers and Beers !

Blupwrdup

Folder Marker
License Type: Free
Operating Systems: Windows XP
File Size: 985KB

Give XP the look and feel of Vista with these icons. Customize your folder icons and icon backgrounds with Vista icons. FolderMarker is a snap to use, and you can pick up a bunch of Vista icons.
http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,64387-order,1-page,1-c,desktop/description.html

JetStart Free
License Type: Free
Operating Systems: Windows 2000, Windows 9.x, Windows Me, Windows XP
File Size: 891KB

Get a Vista Start menu without upgrading your operating system. Tired of digging into crowded Start Menu? Want to get some Vista functionality without upgragrading? JetStart offers quick access to categorized Start Menu shortcuts, recently launched programs, and system commands.
http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,61605-order,1-page,1-c,desktop/description.html

Visual Task Tips
License Type: Free
Operating Systems: Windows XP
File Size: 90KB

See a miniature image of a task in the Taskbar. Here's a clever tool that pops up a preview -- a miniature image -- of the task in the Taskbar. Scroll your mouse wheel up or down on the image to size it.
http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,64386-order,1-page,1-c,desktop/description.html

FastFolder
License Type: Free
Operating Systems: Windows 2000, Windows XP
File Size: 93KB
Author: Bernie Madigan

Quick access for commonly used folders. FastFolder allows quick access to 12 pre-selected folders from the system tray.
http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,29680-order,1-page,1-c,desktop/description.html

LaunchBar Commander
License Type: Free
Operating Systems: Windows 2000, Windows XP
File Size: 1610KB

Launch apps and files fast. You can create multiple docks to launch applications and documents with this freebie.
http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,64388-order,1-page,1-c,desktop/description.html