Yup, I finally caved in and went and got a new laptop. I decided that I didn't *really* need a DVD burner and that if at some point in the future I develop the need for one I can always get an external firewire drive. I ended up getting the
Sony VGN-S260 because it's super tiny, only weighs 4.2 lbs, and has a widescreen 1280x800 display. It also has a dedicated video card and Bluetooth, so I ended up with pretty much everything I wanted except for the DVD burner and in the absolute smallest form factor possible. Think of a 7/8 scale 15" widescreen Powerbook and you get the idea. The screen measures 13.3" diagonally which is sorta on the small side but it is soooo bright and contrasty and has enough resolution that I don't mind at all. Overall I'm happy with the decision, and so is my little sister because I had been hanging out in her room on the computer far more than she would like.