jamerslong wrote:
... now I am booted up and... well what kind of stuff should I be aware of that's special to this line of notebooks?...
As already mentioned,
absolutely beware of the potential
"loose GPU" syndrome, that some T4x models may develop, if being lifted in one hand (which may/will cause the motherboard to flex, which may cause solder-joints between the GPU and the motherboard to come loose). Not that I hope you'll ever need to go into these details, but nonetheless be aware of the sticky in the T4x-forum discussing causes and cures for this failure; see
T42 shuts down when i move it. Observing this, may your T41 live a happy, long life!

In the thread
Thinkpad for my parents! (see the posts from Sat Nov 01, 2008 and onwards), you will find a number of suggestions with respect to the "software configuration" of a T42; these suggestions apply just as well to other T4x'ers.
If, one day, you want to "put more speed" into it (if not already speedy enough?), see the thread
New T40 owner, new upgrade race!! for some suggestions.
Congratulations with your new ThinkPad, and very welcome to the highly distinguished
T4x-owners-club!!
Johan