Hoping to get back into Linux

Alright, so I originally started using Mandrake back when it was actually was called Mandrake, and then later switched to Ubuntu . I moved around Debian/Ubuntu distros for a while trying some distros like Pinguy, Mint, and Ultimate Edition. Anyway, I felt it was too much of a hassle to keep linux in my life while also having to use CS5 which most of the programs were not compatible with WINE. But now I'm feeling its time I try dual booting again (with Windows 7).

Anyway, I am fairly certain that I am going to go back to something Ubuntu flavored (although not Unity based), but not having been in the scene in a while, I am wondering if anyone has some suggestions for some newer apps out there that I would not have heard about that would be good for me to know.

Also, I used to visit OMG Ubuntu and Web Upd8 for my Linux fixin's, and would like to know if there are any Linux blogs that you follow that you would recommend, or other ways you find out about new applications and all the other good stuff you can find browsing blogs.