When I first got internet access in 1996, I was totally amazed at all the software that was offered free or on a trial basis. I’d read about “shareware” in computer magazines but had no idea at how much was actually out there. Back then, my internet connection was a 14.4 modem and my hard drive was a vast 2GB. Needless to say, the size of any file I downloaded was an issue. That’s why the first shareware I discovered and downloaded was PKzip.

If you’re reading this, you probably know what a zip file is. What you may not know is that PKware’s founder developed the .zip format and offered it into the public domain. And PKWare is still in business, improving their software and adding security features to meet today’s needs.

Granted, internet speeds are lightening fast compared to 1996 and thumb drives are bigger than the hard drive in my first Windows 95 machine. Of course, files are much bigger now, too. There’s always a reason to want to save space and PKWare is still providing the best way to compress files as well as encrypting them. That’s right, the creator of the standard in file comprssion has added encryption to keep all your data secure.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the cost. PKWare offers a free-for-personal-use download of their SecureZIP software. Just head over to www.securezip.com to download your copy. SecureZIP can compress your files, saving you up to 90% of space. It also includes a digital certificate so that only the person you choose to see your files will see them, no password required. And don’t worry about spyware - SecureZIP contains no spyware, toolbars or other stuff that you don’t want.

If all that wasn’t enough, PKWare is having a great contest right now, giving away some really cool stuff at www.DecryptandDrive.com. After you download and install the SecureZIP software, register for the contest and use your software to decrypt your entry. You could win a Wii, a bike or even a Honda scooter!

I’m heading over to enter now. If I don’t win, then I sure hope one of my readers do. So, what are you waiting for? Get over there and win some prizes!

I’ve got 6 kids, a grandkid, a soon-to-be “step” grandkid (”Step” is just to be technically correct. He’s already my real grandkid in my heart) and a brand new grandbaby on the way. The family just keeps growing.

We try to make each kid feel special on birthdays and Christmas but sometimes a kid wants to be special on non-special days. I used to keep little gifts around, things I’d pick up on sale like a little race car or a family of babydolls, just to give to a child who might be needing a little extra love. I still do that for the grandkids.

Sometimes I want something special, too. Being a mom with kids, I don’t usually spend money on myself. I just found a way to get a special treat for no money at all. And what is that special thing? A free t-shirt!

Now, I’ve just discovered this site so I can’t verify that you’ll actually get the shirt you request. I’ll definitely let you know if the shirt comes in or not. If it does, then this is a site that I’ll be checking at least once each week.

Apparently, these t-shirts have printing imperfections. The one I ordered stated the logo was the wrong shade of blue. Ordering requires just your mailing info, no payment information at all. They didn’t even ask for an email address.

The site states that stock changes often so it’s a good idea to keep checking. There is a limit of one t-shirt per person. If you order and receive the shirt, please let me know.