I figured out how to get this whole thing fixed. I transferred the backup file to my old PC, which *was* able to install iTunes. I had to rename the folder to match the unique key for my iPhone... then I was able to restore it from iTunes. 

But that still didn't stop me from buying the low-end 13' Macbook Air. I have needed a new computer for some time (both my computers are 5+ years old) and the MBA was really the perfect fit. 

I've been cutting down on heavy development/design work, so I didn't need a workhorse of a laptop (I might opt to buy a iMac pretty soon, though). I needed something to surf the web and be able to write proposals and handle light-weight project management. I have some tentative plans to travel in May/June, so I wanted something that would travel well, too. 

So far - this thing has been awesome. The solid state hard drive (or maybe it's the 2GB of RAM) makes things go fast. 

And now I can go to coffee shops and make eyes at cute, hipster girls with my cool laptop. (Just kidding)

Coupled with my new 3GS, I got so much Apple freshness!