Google Notebook put to pasture

So I’m a little late, but I see that Google has discontinued development on its Notebook product (Official Google Notebook blog). I am very disappointed in this news. I use it for:

  • a Work Journal – it’s how I know what I did and when I did it. This works out especially well as a software contractor.
  • a Diary – Sometimes, I just want to rant, but really don’t want anyone to read it. And I figure whenever I get famous, it’ll make the autobiography that much easier.
  • a Tech Manual – I’ve got all my crib notes on various technologies organized here. Things like how to install ASPNet membership services correctly, SQL Server 2005 database performance and tuning tips, and Apache /Subversion setup instructions. This is extremely useful.
  • A Client journal – I have a Notebook specifically for client information. I write down all the crazy ideas that clients have dreamed up, and cross them off when I complete them.

After Gmail and Calendar, Google Notebook is probably the most important app that I use. I’m sorry to see it shelved.

I am trying to give EverNote a chance, but their interface doesn’t really impress me thus far. I do like the fact that I can download an app for my PC and edit notes offline (a whopping 54Mb download). But when am I ever offline? And why would I want more software cluttering up my PC?