I like David duel boot Ubuntu/XP (some times you just need that windows app) and use the Linux 98% of the time with no issues. It should work fine for what you suggested but be ready to fix it your self if it should cause you trouble.
Example...
I just got a new router and needed to call Linksys as the CD would not run under Linux (Mac and XP sure), all I heard from the tech support was " I do not know Linux; can you not install XP instead?"
(that was my best female Indian voice by the way)
Ubuntu does have a good following thought so help is online if you need it.
