Down but not out

So, the files are still on the HD, and, according to the trial versions of some data recovery software, still in good condition. Nothing appears to be lost, but I haven't decided which program to use to get them back. Not all of the programs recognize the external HD, but File Scavenger does. I think that's the one I'll go with. Just not right now. Recovering, sorting, and saving the files to other media is going to take so much time, something I just don't have right now.

I'm just relieved to know that the files are there when I'm ready to get them.

In the meantime, since we had to take the new pc back, J has been looking at replacements. He's leaning toward an Apple (laptop.) Any recs from you Apple users out there? (He mostly needs it for work on his videos and obviously image treatment is impt to both of us. I need a computer that allows me to write.)

On a completely unrelated note, I had a terrible dream that one of my English students (Oh, I have three now and just forgot to tell you) died with his parents. Gas leak. They shared a house with us, and J and I weren't home at the time. J's the one who found them first, all stretched out peacefully on the floor.  I woke up in tears when I realized (in that still asleep way) that it was Wednesday, and E wouldn't be coming for his lesson. :( Needless to say, I was happy to greet the real world. However, bad dreams or not, he's not getting out of his test. :D