try linspire..
www.linspire.com
it's about the best linux for someone starting out.. i have used it for a while now and have downloaded just about every distro out there.. i still use linspire.. they also have the best support for any problems..
linux is great.. once you get use to it, you will never go back to MS. simple as that. i have MS XP pro setting right here beside me that i could install on the computer but i have no need to and no need for bugs, viruses, spyware, addware,etc,etc.. you just don't get that with linux.