I'm also going to add that any online service you sign up for, always check through their privacy settings and make sure the options to not gather data are enabled. Another one is to check through settings for your ISP and cellular plans. Some collect various data to "enhance" services. Lastly I'll mention that on mobile devices switch to a privacy oriented browser like the recommendations below, and use Progressive Web Apps instead of native apps. These will include the browser's privacy protections by default.
Notamoosen
I want to second this. Paid is only $2 a month or $20 a year. Excellent for blocking various trackers on all devices even those not on your home network.
I'd say if you plan on using it any public places, or if you don't have full control over all the computers/technology in your home network, it's a good idea to run one. It's a nice last resort should someone on the same lan have a piece of malicious software.
Absolutely not. Sure, neither will give you the Dallas Cowboys, but Elon wouldn't even give you the Denver Broncos.
For SF, I recommend Primer. Its definitely a challenging movie as there's no clear exposition, but I found myself wanting to watch it several times to piece it altogether.
Wanted to chime in again with this article I found that may give you some starting points.
There's pros and cons to both platforms and there's plenty of people willing to argue each side. I wouldn't necessarily focus on this as much as trying to find the laptop she's most physically comfortable typing on. Also for an aspiring writer you may want to look into a screen that's easy on the eyes over long periods.
I enjoyed season 4 as well, particularly in the original format. Season 5 on the other hand, I have no idea what that was.
Just adding that the base level is free up to 5 users is you want to sample it a bit before paying for more features.
I find roku to have the simplest interface for people to learn. Fill it with free channels like tubi and pluto. For your personal library I'd suggest jellyfin. Simple and free.
Try not to look at it as getting a $100 of technology, but rather if you'd get $100 dollars of entertainment out of it.
I personally use Niagara after years of Nova. I like it's clean presentation and the alphabet on the side to quickly jump to less frequently used apps. I will say though, if you've experimented with other launchers and still come back to Pixel, there's nothing wrong with that. It sounds like it meets your needs.