Whenever I decide it is time for new technology, I do what we were told to do with our very first computer. I sit down and list what I want to use it for...now, also where I want it to go. Try to think of things you would like to do, not just hat you already do.
I honestly think the office desktop we have now may be our last machine tied to one location. I keep a laptop at Jenna's, mostly for reading SD cards out of the game cameras. I rarely even plug it in. I do not like the way laptop batteries and computers get involved in fires, so treat mine like a stove...only on when we are present. That may be dumb, but I'll just be dumb, then.
I truly enjoy the iPad and Kindle Fire HD tablets. I have become accustomed to touch-screens, between these and DROID, and never liked the older Kindle keyboards. I use iPad or Kindle for surfing, checking email and FB, as well as shopping online. I mentioned to the librarian the other day that teaching Winn to manipulate a mouse seems pointless to me. He uses a touchscreen easily...it is very intuitive.
I would opt for a nice photo printer...lots of fun. Unless you already have WiFi, you will need a wireless router. Look at how easily and inexpensively you can install software and upgrades, too. A lot of that has changed tremendously in recent years.
Have fun!
