I have looked over the similar threads, but I am too non-techy to understand all the differences. I apologize if the request is too similar.

In short, I would like an inexpensive, lightweight machine that would let me email, surf, create Word (or Openoffice), excel, and maybe powerpoint docs, and watch movies, including those stored as files or on youtube.

Even if you don't have a specific machine to suggest, could I do all this with a netbook? Are there some minimum specs in terms of memory, speed, power, software that I would need?

Thanks for your patience and help.
One non-techy south of TLV