Save energy or have my toys?

I'm conflicted. I want to conserve energy, save my hard drive, yet have my toys work when they need the computer "on." For instance, I have a great calendar program with audible reminders, but the computer has to be on for the sound to be activated at the alarm time. Right now, I have the computer going to sleep after 10 minutes of inactivity, and the monitor going off the same way. I've considered putting the computer to sleep at bedtime and turning it on when getting up. But that's a bother and someting I might forget. Besides, how much difference would it really make over what I'm doing now--in the long run? I have a Dell Inspiron 1526 with Vista Home Premium. Thanks for any ideas.

 

keep your toys ..energy smenergy