I have been using Gmail for a long time now. I switched over after having used hotmail for more than half a decade.
I still have to check my hotmail every once in a while to make sure I'm not getting something from someone who didn't know my email changed (before you ask, hotmail won't forward email to any gmail account, at least not for me).
So, I logged into my hotmail today to find they changed the style... as much as I agree that it is an improved look and layout, they basically just ripped off gmail.
I am almost certain at this point that the only thing Windows is capable of doing that is unique is sucking. When it comes to sucking, they are truly a source for inspiration.