How many users have run into the limitations of MS Paint (Default image editor on Windows) and have heard someone say well just use Photoshop. While Photoshop is a great image editing program, it isnt what most users need to get there job done. If you survive the initial price shock, purchase the software, and try to get started you may find yourself overwhelmed by all the options.
If all you want to do is make simple edits; cropping, resize, photo touch ups, you should check out Paint.Net. This is a free image editing program that can do a number of sophisticated filters and effects, while focusing on being easy to use; intuitive for the average user.
Check out this screen shot of the user interface:
You can download and install the software in a few minutes and be editing images.