paulornothing

So currently I am a statistician but I also have a part time job doing data analysis for a non-profit. I enjoy both jobs however I'm getting more interested in programming. Not just to automate some of the more boring tasks I do at my main job but because it interests me. I have a decent amount of experience with HTML and CSS and luckily at work I'm able to take some classes even if it only intertwines with my work occasionally.

So in my free time (after the kids and wife go to bed) I like to work on either learning more about Python or working on some web projects. However I find it hard to really focus in my office at home possibly because it's where I do my work when I work at home. I also have a Mac Mini setup I occasionally set up in the other room but that becomes a hassle to put it away or set it up.

Therefore I've come to the conclusion that a laptop might cure what ails me. I could set up anywhere in the house or even outside on the deck when it's nice out. Ideally I would love a Retina Macbook Pro or even an Air but price is definitely an issue. I've also looked into used Thinkpads (thanks to the guide I occasionally see posted on HN) but eBay doesn't seem to be working in my favor. I've honestly been hoping a friend or family member has their laptop break so I can fix it and keep it, just because it would be cheap (and I enjoy that type of thing). Perhaps it's all just because I like having all kinds of toys around.

So all of that to really ask if someone can point me in the right direction for a laptop, or do I really just need to work with what I have?

Trying to stay around or less than $200 USD, and would like something ok, just not too big and clunky.