Like Windows XP itself, Microsoft's 'Bliss' image of rolling green hills has aged, and evolved. Here's its story— and what the real-world site looks like today.

Windows XP only: The system theme pack installer from NiwradSoft gives your crayola-inspired Windows XP desktop an impressive Windows 7-ish look—without wasting time hacking system files yourself.

Microsoft created a secret Windows XP theme back in 2000 that looked a lot like Apple’s Aqua theme. It was used to create the initial theme engine for XP, before its release in 2001.

Apparently to avoid confusion, the Mac maker asks a Web site to stop offering a Windows XP 'desktop theme' that looks like Mac OS X. Written by Ian Fried, Contributor Feb. 15, 2002 at 12:35 p.m. PT ...

The Aero theme in Windows Vista updates the desktop look and feel with softer edges and translucent windows. There are several downloads that can help you achieve the Aero look on XP.

WindowBlinds 11 allows for unique customization of the Windows Start menu, taskbar, window frames, control buttons, and more using desktop interface themes called skins, according to the company.