Why I Need a Mac: A Call to Arms

by Marian Schembari on August 23, 2010

My computer, Sally (yes, I named my computer), is almost six years old. While I love her to death, it’s about time to put her down. She’s been good to me, despite all the verbal abuse. Problem is, as good as she’s been, there is always better and I’m afraid my business is stalling because Sally no longer works. I need a Mac [insert whiny voice here].

A few weeks ago I was moaning to my boyfriend about how badly I want a Mac. He said, “Yeah, a Mac would be nice, but if you really need a new computer, why don’t you just buy a less expensive PC?

“Because, Sam, Macs are BETTER.”

“Are they really, though? Sally’s lasted you six years.”

Why do I want a Mac, then? I suck at immediate comebacks, but even though Sally has lasted me six years, she ‘s always been a bit shit. And Dell customer service is the worst in the FREAKING WORLD .

My brother has a Mac and I would stare at it longing sometimes. While I was still living at home I borrowed his laptop to film the Pajama Job Hunt and Critique My Profile. To illustrate the incredible contrast between videos on a Mac and videos on a PC, here are two examples.

Here’s a video I filmed on a Mac:

Here’s a video I filmed today on my PC:

If you’d been wondering why I haven’t posted any new episodes of Critique My Profile since moving to London, this would be the reason. The quality is shit, it slows down my computer, the audio is off…

So I need your help!

My computer is my livelihood, but there’s no way I can afford  a Mac right now. I just bought a $1,000 ticket to New Zealand and I’m living in one of the most expensive cities in the world. Yeah yeah, woe is me.

So I’ve started a fund and if you enjoy the content on this site, I’d HUGELY appreciate a pitch-in. It doesn’t need to be a lot. With 5,000 unique visitors per month, even a fifth of you donating only $1 would be enough. 150 of you are subscribed, 250 are on my mailing list, so if you’re a regular reader and feel the need to thank me for all my love and devotion and/or want to give me an early Christmas present, a donation of any amount of money would make me the happiest girl in the world.

A refurbished Mac goes for $929. PayPal takes around 3% so I need to raise $957 for a new computer. Dying to help a girl out? Check out my nifty widget…

Oh, and Apple? Feel free to send me a new computer – I promise I’ll be the best spokeswoman in the world.

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  • http://thetaitglobal.com Liv

    love you!

  • Cameron

    Holy crap, you should absolutely be a spokesperson for Mac! Look at the difference between those two videos – it’s incredible!

  • http://comfortablyuncomfortable.wordpress.com Big L

    Earlier this year when I needed a new computer to start my business, I had the same debate with someone. And you’re right, sometimes saying “because a Mac is BETTER” doesn’t feel like a strong enough argument. Money was a consideration for me at the time, too, but I followed my heart (which adores shiny awesome things) and went for it.

    Let me tell you: best decision ever! A Mac just IS BETTER! It’s fast, easy to use, has awesome programs that, for non-techy people are quite fantastic. I built my website using the iWeb program (redballoonrelations.com – not because I’m self promoting, but because it’s neat to see examples) and made a video using the iMovie program…and I’ve never done either of those things before! Plus, it has neat efficiency options, like spaces and expose AND it’s just prettier. While that may sound silly, I personally think that’s quite a valid point. We spend more hours looking at our screen than pretty much anything else, so our eyes might as well like it.

    To demonstrate my enthusiasm further, I donated. Because really, you just shouldn’t be without one any longer! So there!

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    First of all, thank you so much for donating! Am glad your enthusiasm prompted such an action ;-)

    Also, I totally forgot to mention that another reason I desperately want a Mac is because I’m totally not techie but have heard iWeb is fantastic. I can’t believe you made your site with it – it’s totally gorgeous!

    I also can’t tell you how happy I am that you justified the “it’s prettier” argument. Because it totally IS prettier but I always felt silly telling people that. But with my job I really do spend so much of my life in front of a computer and looking at Sad Sally’s face is just making my depressed ;-)

  • http://blog.dianeshipley.com diane shipley

    OK, I’m going to give you as much as I can spare, which sadly is not very much. But you deserve something for all the stuff I’ve learned from you (way more than I can afford right now, in fact) and I got my lovely Mac bought for me (thanks Dad!) a year ago and I hope to never go back (my Dell lasted 2 years, and even a £100 repair couldn’t salvage it…) so I figure this must be good karma, or something. :)

  • http://blog.dianeshipley.com diane shipley

    Wow, my experiments with iWeb have not been so great, but your site looks fantastic – that IS inspiring :)

  • Guest

    Seriously? don’t fall for the Apple Kool-Aid. Buy yourself a high-end PC for less $$, and spend the difference on any software you need for your “business.” And remember, computer equipment is deductible as a business expense. (and wait, you can’t afford a computer and you give business advice?)

  • http://www.jessilicious.com Jess Webb

    Cool idea! :) I’ve chipped in and looking forward to seeing awesome new videos on your new Mac! ;)

    I’m still on a PC myself, and have been thinking about going the Mac route eventually. We’ll see…. :)

  • Celiacchick

    Liv…I think you meant to say “Holy MACerel’. har har

  • http://twitter.com/marianschembari/status/21911565100 Marian Schembari

    {latest post} Why I Need a Mac: A Call to Arms http://bit.ly/dzZXbw

  • http://rachelbaker.me Rachel Baker

    You need a new computer, no doubt. Howver is comparing a video done on a six year old Dell to a recent Mac fair?
    People tend to go cheap when buying Windows PCs and then complain that their computer sucks.
    If you want a Mac for the software or the Operating System that is fine. Even if you want one for the design and cult factor -that is fine.

    • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

      Haha, that is a VERY excellent point – one a friend brought up to me *after* I posted. I think you’re right, but I’ve tried using Camtasia (the filming software I use) on another, newer computer with similar results. Maybe it just works better on Macs? Who knows…

  • http://www.sweeneysays.com Nicole

    I actually had pretty good experiences with Dell customer service. I am a Dell loyalist, though. My only truly heinous customer service experiences have come from the fact that I bought my last computer (an Inspiron, which is probably thing #1 that I did wrong) from Staples (thing #2). The EasyTech guys are fucking incompetent. Also the warranty that I bought didn’t actually cover everything that the guy told me it would cover. Super awesome.

    Which one is “better” is really a matter of what you know how to use, and what software comes included. Personally, I’d take a $1000 XPS over a Mac aaaannyyy day of the week. (After the Inspiron died, we spent about $100 fixing a minor problem with my 5 year old XPS, and aside from her teensy harddrive, she’s good as new)

    But it’s all about personal preference.

    Also I am super poor so I can’t actually contribute to this, since I have an alarming amount of student loan debt I get to start paying in November and I’m still unemployed.. but GOOD LUCK!

    (also, also, I name my computers too)

    (also, also, also, I’m sorry this is the longest comment ever, considering the fact that it says just about nothing)

  • Hoodahmahn

    Considering that I fix Windows computers all week long, and teach Mac, all week long, my response is “Congratulations” for moving to Mac.

    On the note of customer service, its only as good as the person helping you. The company doesn’t matter, even Apple, if the person behind the desk or phone isn’t into their job, the support will suck. I’ve witnessed this across dozens of companies for dozens of years. I don’t have a single company that I can say always has top notch support — aside from my own company. :)

    However, when you finally get your Mac, be sure to at least run ClamxAV to scan your files for issues IF you exchange any files via e-mail (or otherwise) with a Windows-user.

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Ooooh, good tip – thanks!

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    You are soooo sweet, thanks Jess!!

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    LMAO. Nice one.

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Haha! Nicole, you crack me up. I think my warranty was a problem too. It only lasted a year or so and when I called for customer support it was an extra $40 just to talk to someone! Sheesh. Google tells me more about my computer problems than the tech guys.

    That said, the Mac vs PC debate is infamous, but in terms of making videos my experience has seriously shown me that Mac rocks out hardcore on that. ALSO, the fact that Sally has lasted 6 years is pretty impressive. We’ll have to see if the Mac can last that long.

    Don’t worry about contributing! I’ll still be here doing my thing and you can help me name the new computer when it arrives…

    And as always, my dear, I appreciate the comments!

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    So much fucking good karma headed your way dearest!

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Holy CRAP that Kickstarter website is freaking awesome – I’m so happy you linked to this and I’ve totally been exploring all day. What a neat idea! I think I might just submit something as you’re right, it IS a creative endeavor and I love the way you put that!

    xoxo

  • http://twitter.com/marianschembari/status/21922513360 Marian Schembari

    Have gotten $85 so far for me new Mac!! You guys are the freaking BEST… http://bit.ly/dzZXbw

  • http://blog.dianeshipley.com diane shipley

    :)

  • Mariana Betancourt

    the ol’ Mac vs. PC dilemma… I would definitely support your decision to go with a Mac. Macs are just “better”!! completely agree and I do think it will make your life a lot easier being that your business is so computer centric. So i’m glad to chip in what I can, and good luck in reaching your goal. Also I don’t know if you know about http://www.kickstarter.com but it is an awesome website that helps people fund creative endeavors, I would argue your is a creative endeavor since funding your computer would bring your audience with the awesome videos and content that you produce. Check out my friend Dan Delaney’s kickstarter project http://bit.ly/aVF9R1 just an an idea how he used his online community to reach his goal. His project is already fully funded but it is a good example of how kickstarter works. oh and also check out his site just because it is Awesome http://vendr.tv/

  • http://twitter.com/bsandusky/status/21923769532 Brett Sandusky

    @BookSwim http://ow.ly/2ts2b Basically: I need a new computer, spent my money otherwise, so you should buy it for me. My life depends on it.

  • http://cleopatradoesthenasty.wordpress.com/ Glynnis

    You get it, girl! As a fellow starving, creative type, I wish you luck on your quest for your Mac! It’s so awful being broke as a joke, isn’t it? You’re all “Crap! I have no money! But I need so many things!”

  • Melissa Breau

    I bought a Mac about 2 years ago now. I accidentally left me laptop in a cab (oops!) and it never turned up (surprise!). So I borrowed the money for a mac and bought it … after all a girl can’t go computer-less… and spent the next several months paying it back.

    I’ll totally donate to your fun ;-) but you’re going to have to wait until after pay day later this week….

  • http://twitter.com/hassanmirza/status/21925936368 Hassan

    @MarianSchembari wow, you are rockin it. $150 in like..what, a day? Mac should give you one complimentary http://bit.ly/9qIm4i

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    That’s basically how I feel all the time. Camera! iPad! Doggie! That said, me getting a Mac = awesome videos for YOU. Right?

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Oh no! That’s a HORRIBLE story. Freaking NYC cabs. That said, glad you have a new one now though I’m sorry you had to borrow the money to buy it. Still though… that’s probably what I’ll end up doing for at least part of it. Sacrifices! ;-)

  • http://markscott.co.nz Mark

    I’d contribute if it WASN’T a mac…. grrr apple products lol

    But interesting to hear your heading to NZ, what city?

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Haha! What’s you problem with Macs?? Do tell!

    And yes! NZ! Will be just outside Aucklad – Browns Bay to be exact. Can’t wait! Where are YOU?!

  • http://genevievejoy.tumblr.com Genevieve Joy

    hey marian — been following your blog for a few weeks now (we have debbie stier in common…) and i saw all the fuss a few negative twatters have been tweeting. it made me so angry for you! maybe they could read a few of your posts and learn how rudeness and negativity are bad qualities on twitter. if they disagree with your methods, they don’t have to donate.
    i am unfortunately a poor recent college grad who, like you, recently ransomed her savings for a plane ticket to nz. so i can’t help you out but good luck replacing sally! i love reading your blog and have learned a lot from you already.

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Genevieve, I would gladly donate money to YOU for this comment. Thank you, truly, from the bottom of my heart. Fucking Twitter has been killing me today and you just made this day so much better! I’m a little tired of defending myself, but you’re right, they *don’t* have to donate. And I’m not ruining my business or asking you guys to bail me out of some financial crisis I’ve dug myself into. I was asking for a favor from my ridiculously awesome friend and readers. Maybe those “twatters” (love it!) are just jealous I’ve raised $170 in one day? Teehee. They can bite me, whatever.

    Did you seriously go to NZ?? Cuz Ima need all your tips, girl! Am so sooo happy you’ve found me :)

  • http://genevievejoy.tumblr.com Genevieve Joy

    YES i went to NZ and had an incredible time. 2 months working at a winery, 1 month traveling and hiking. Would love to tell you my kiwi secrets…maybe by email? genevievebjoy@gmail.com

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Haha, they should totally send me a free one just for all this fancy publicity I’m giving them!

    I feel bad for Sally too… But it’s her time.

  • http://twitter.com/jc_preston JC Preston

    Guess that price depends on what Mac you’re looking into. Macs tend to last longer than PC’s. Heck, I’m still sporting my 2006 Macbook Pro!

  • http://markscott.co.nz Mark

    I couldn’t live with myself knowing I’ve contributed to Apples profits, just don’t like them as a company, somewhat innovative products though… I’ve disowned a couple workmates after they brought mac’s lol

    I’m down in Christchurch in the South Island… where it is bloody freezing!! is it going to be a long stay? or ?

  • http://nevillebarrettjr.com/ Neville Barrett

    I prefer PCs over Macs, but your site is great. So if a Mac means better content from you, than oh well…a Mac it is! Just do me a favor and consider a PC (non-dell) for your next one. ;) BTW donated $10 for the cause.

  • http://elaunch.com.au/blog/ Michael

    Now you get me thinking if I should buy a Mac as well. Every cool web designer has one. But they cost so much. What a dilema.

    BTW feel sorry Sally :)

  • http://twitter.com/Kemari Kemari Howell

    I get paid next week, so I will definitely be donating to the “Ms. Marian’s Mac-Mac-Mac” fund.

    Also, I need to start a fund too.

    The “Kemari wants to move to Seatttle” fund.

    Also, Macs are awesome. I still have my old g3 ibook and even though its ANCIENT compared to the newer Macbooks, etc., it is still pretty badass.

  • http://personalbranding101.com/ Ryan Rancatore

    You had me at “Sally”.

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Hahaha, you’re the best! My comp’s name is Sally, my boyfriend’s comp is named Lionel. Sally had a crush on Lionel but he’s neon green and flamboyantly gay. They’re buddies though now. You know, after she mended her robot heart.

    Too much? Too much.

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    I keep hearing pretty awesome things about Macs which is why I’m totally determined to get one… Have I mentioned how much I love you and all the readers who are being crazy supportive? Cuz y’all are the best :)

    Seattle, huh? I’ve always wanted to go but never made my way over there. I promise to visit if you move (and you should consider a fund, I’ll totally repay the good karma you’ve sent my way!!)

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Sounds amazing – will totally email today so we can bond!

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Hey, that’s almost as old as Sally! Good to know ;-)

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Thanks, Neville! You’re a total peach :)

    I used to be a die-hard PC girl, but when I realized the difference between videos I knew I had to go Mac…

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Haha, unfortunately, I have to agree with you a little there. Though that doesn’t stop me from wanting one!

    I’ve heard about the cold! I’ll probably be there for a year and I’m sure I’ll get down there at some point – you’ll have to give me pointers!

  • http://twitter.com/ryanrancatore/status/21979800178 Ryan Rancatore

    Just donated $5 to @marianschembari. If she can summon the strength to switch to a Mac, maybe 1 day I can do the same http://bit.ly/dzZXbw

  • http://twitter.com/Yakezie The Yakezie

    Marian – this is such a cool service and offering you are doing! Wow, didn’t even know put up actual full length videos to critique people’s Twitter profiles! Rock on!

    Screw the blogger bullies! This takes a lot of effort and time, and you are doing a FANTASTIC job. Keep on going and roll with the punches.

  • http://marianlibrarian.com Marian Schembari

    Awwwww, thanks new friend! It DOES take a lot of time which is where my confusion to their assholeness comes from ;-)

  • http://lifeforward.onsugar.com/ Shayna

    Nah…only too much if Sally is trying to off herself from a broken robot heart ;-)

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