One last thing, it seems that this kernel is older with PAE. If that is so, is there a newer one we can use or should I stick with the one the installer chooses?
Hmm. I've never tried what you're asking but here's the approach I'd take:
Update to pae with menu>system>install additional software
Reboot (at this point I'm assuming you've just installed a new kernel)
After reboot check for updates menu>install updates
Reboot if necessary (depending on any updates from above)
Before updating the kernel again use the system for some time. Is everything working? Upgrading the kernel further may not be necessary.
To determine what other kernel choices might be available:
Open synaptic menu>system>install/remove software
Reload
Mark all upgrades
Apply (**but don't install, yet**)
Read what Synaptic is suggesting. If packages were held back from menu>install updates they will probably be listed here. If nothing was held back then you'll need to select kernel packages by hand (and beyond the scope of what I can help with).
Determine what you want to do knowing that adding packages can cause system instability.
Cancel Synaptic install dialog if you don't want to install packages
