POP3 email

So, does anyone know if it is possible to set up your POP email account to send you an IM when you get a new email?

Right now I access my POP3 email at work via mail2web.com, but it doesn't notify me when new emails come in -- I have to keep on reloading. The urge to continually reload is distracting. I'm trying to find a solution to this that keeps me connected but informed about new email without having to do anything actively.

sewing machines

So, I'm starting to glance at sewing machines because I would like to learn to sew (more) and start sewing some of my own clothing or at least altering stuff I find at thrift stores.

I just spent some time speaking to a saleswoman who was pushing Janome, which will run me between $300 and $550 CAD (specifically, the 415, 423S, and Decor Excel 5018 in increasing price order). She also recommended the Bernette 65, which would cost $370.

On the other hand, Costco.ca has some Singer sewing machines for much cheaper -- nearly half the price, for comparable functions.

I'm wondering if any of the sewers on my list have strong opinions on sewing machine brands or models, or if anyone bought a sewing machine recently and could share their experience.

Woodworking advice?

In my quest to become a competent home owner, I'm deliberately stretching my boundaries by taking on projects.

My first one is this dresser I got from my brother, painted with yellow and blue paint ::shudder::

This weekend I hope to carry it up to the garage and strip the paint. The dresser is basically a rectangle, with no fancy details whatsoever.

My father already has some old paint stripper, no idea how old:

Circa 1850 Paint Stripper, mfg by 'Swing Paints' Montreal, Canada.
It is in gelled form so that it will not just drip off a vertical surface too easily and since it is corrosive a liquid would splash and could get in your eyes etc.

The can is almost full. Any reasons why I wouldn't want to use this stuff? For instance, if this stuff is wrong for use on low quality wood furniture, or paint stripper ages poorly, or the new paint strippers available nowadays are vastly easier to work with/more effective/safer?

Also, any tips on paint stripping from the brilliant woodworking geniuses on my friendslist?