Actually using an older OS with restrictions can be safer than using a supported one. For example, if you block scripting in your web browser on an old OS, you have less chance of an infection than if you don't block it on a modern OS. Blocking scripting may limit your ability to view certain websites, but it prevents infections from ads (which may load even if they don't display). Depending on what you need to go online for, you may do just fine without scripting.

I'd still recommend disconnecting from the Internet when you don't need to be connected, and I'm assuming you have a hardware firewall of some sort to block incoming probes (most routers do), but a few seconds online to activate a game is not going to immediately infect your computer as long as you have a hardware firewall.

I will also be clinging to my XP computer until they pry it from my cold dead hands! I don't use it often, but I know it's there when I get an urge to play a game that won't play anywhere else.

I think your right, Drac....

I will pack the XP tower, and store it in the closet, just in case..

I still use my Win98 and WinXP machines all the time because I still have many games I like to play on them and my WinXP machine is still set up for internet use
But once Microsoft withdraws support for XP I expect I'll have restrict internet use to just my Win7 machine

[I so hate being bossed about !! ]