Hi Adam
Well I must say, and not to want to cause a big discussion on Mac v PC, I went the Mac route a few years ago and have never looked back! Every time I use a PC I end up cursing the thing. Anti-virus software particularly seems to irritate me. Anyway, I am sure a PC will do the job just as well, just that I find Mac easier to live with. My Macpro laptop cost nearly £2000, but I sometimes use a recent PC laptop that cost about £450, and which runs Lightroom ok.
Regarding compact cameras, I seem to buy a new one every year or so. We have a Canon S70, Panasonic LX3, and now Panasonic G1 and GF1. The last two are great, but not really pocketable.
Good Luck
Jim