I have the same question.  Why does the transaction log get so big?  Books on line just explains "How To", and not "Why" 

Or, after you get the developer edition installed:

Temporarily reset your system clock to a date prior to the end of your evaluation period.  Then you can use the eval edition.  

You may...

I'm the lone SQL developer where I work.

I dont know about the dba books, but i have a dogeared viera book that lives just to the left of my mouse...

To run a query across databases from different servers registered in the same Enterprise Manager, just do:

Select WhateverTable.SomeField

From

OtherDatabase..WhateverTable 

Yes, you can use DTS to call a batch file to invoke an Access application.  I am doing this with an Access Data Project file.  I personally find it complex...