[PPCFreak]

I am using the IPT Weather. Does take up 1/2 the screen when pressing the 1 weather icon...then pressing it again puts the icons back to normal apps. It auto updates the current weather on the 1 icon (stock install replaces the icon 0; I moved this in the setting to icon 4; top right icon).

I had SPB + Mskips themes once before. I liked some of the look and feel but seemed to be too heavy of a load on RAM from what I remember. Might give it another try at next flash.

I had PocketInformant at one time. Agree it was pretty pricey. Might give it a try again. ThumbApps Cal is pretty heavey on RAM but it does have all the items I am looking for in the calendar view (nice to color the appts on the view for a quick look at what items are coming up).

Lock screen does pull up the current appointment or next upcoming appointment. Would like to see that same text (would like to be able to pull up on text the current day + next day's events; but can live with baby steps first; current appointment and/or next appointment).

I was looking for a good wp7 theme to try but agree I don't care to swipe the screen a lot....the first screen on IPT has my most used programs without having to swipe; its very nice.