If you're technically inclined, you could play around with Linux and get involved in a forum or two. I switched to Linux around 2004 but was heavily involved for about 4 or 5 years in support forums and learned an enormous amount in the process. It can chew up a lot of time if you let it and the forum communities are generally pretty good - I made some pretty good acquaintances over the years spread around the world.
It starts with downloading an ISO for a Linux distribution, joining a corresponding forum, installing (maybe dual boot at first) and away you go.
Assuming you already have a reasonable computer, it's completely free (save the cost of any CD-R/DVD-Rs you burn). Not only that, it can save you money if you can successfully migrate everything to Linux. I figure I've saved at least $2000 in software costs since 2004.
PS: Congratulations on the new baby.
