Giving the Gift of Ubuntu Linux for Christmas?

Father Christmas asks: "This Christmas I have decided to give all of my friends and relatives Ubuntu Linux CDs from the Ubuntu ShipIt service. In addition, I plan to help them backup their old systems, install Ubuntu, and then introduce them to using Linux for their everyday tasks. What sort of post-installation changes should be made to Ubuntu to make it easy for everyday people to use? What extra software packages should be installed? Should I stick with the default Gnome installation, or would KDE be a better choice? Is there anything else that should be done to maximize the utility of their systems, as well as make their first experience with Linux a great one?"

wow...

[MustardMan]

Suddenly a pack of argyle socks or some tighty-whities doesn't look like such a bad gift after all...

Don't forget the coupons

[shawn443]

Don't forget the free foot rub coupon for grandma, the free breakfast in bed coupon for momma, the free yardwork coupon for dad, and the free nerdy love coupon for the girlfriend.

Um, no.

[Anonymous Coward]

Dude, if you did this to me, I would cockpunch you.