I recently did a cross country trip (DC to San Fran and back). I made several mp3 CDs and that made our trip soo much better. Does anyone do this?

No, I just go to the library and stock up there. I can even get books on CD now. Nothing makes those exit signs go by faster on a long trip than a juicy story.

One thing though. If you leave your library items at your vacation spot...well, I won't embarrass myself by telling you how much I paid in replacement cost and fines. Taught me a lesson~

I have not been to a library in about 6 years. I think my card expired.

Gotta second the motion about books on tape/CD. Truly great for traveling! Nice for the gym in the morning, as well.

Just heard last PM on the news that the record industry has decided to prosecute individuals who have downloaded music from the internet. I have friends scrambling to put all their downloads on to CDs and get them off their hard drives. Don't know how that will work (Record industry finding out WHO downloaded). Anyone know?

I've found that satellite radio, either XM or Serius, make's long road trips much more bearable. I've got XM andmade the 11+ hour drive from St. Louis to New Orleans and it was much more enjoyable.

Check xmfan.com for more raves/info about XM.

I have a CD ripper software so I convert my own CDs into mp3s and then make compilations of my favorite songs.

The record companies are sueing the ones with a lot of songs downloaded although they don't say how many is "a lot". I think they are overreacting and sore losers. If artists are truly artists then they would make music regardless of the pay.

Surely you jest, JJason! And, of course, all actors and writers and artists and sculpters, etc., etc., etc., should give away their talent for free if they are "true artists"! And, I suppose you would gladly give up getting paid for your job and do it free, too, right?

That's pretty funny, Jason.
Artists should make music for the love of it and not charge anyone for the fruits of their efforts.
And all professional athletes should do the same.
And doctors should practice for free (AND pay $200,000 per year malpractice premiums) because of their pure love of helping mankind.
Nice thoughts all.
Just not very realistic.

Here's what I find tough to figure:

downloading a CD and burning copy without paying: OK
going into a store and stealing the same CD: Illegal