So I finally followed Google to the dark side and downloaded Google desktop, then set up a customized Google start page for my browser. I'll save the Google Desktop story for another day.

I was totally enchanted by the Google personalized start page because of the sheer number of widgets and applications that you can add. The one I love best - a widget that allows you to send text messages to cell phones, right from your browser, for free. Replies come back to an email account that you specify. So far, no indication that you can do bulk messaging, but a nifty little app indeed.

You can download the app and use it without Google desktop. Mac users a especially in luck because it will interface with the Mac address book. No need to program your numbers in one at a time!