Workflow software

[Jonbar18]

I hap a very photorific month or so, and now I've got about 1000 photos to weed through and edit. Up until now I've been using Gimp to edit, but I'd probably insane before even making a dent. As soon as I have the money, Lightroom is 1st on the shopping list, but for now does anyone have a recommendation for a free alternative? Doesn't have to be great, just something for basic editing.

TIA

OH!
EDIT: I can't believe I forgot this, but I am now the proud owner of a DSLR. I managed to get my hands on a D3100 and a sigma 70-300mm! WOO

[JFSanders]

Depending upon your savings schedule, LR3 has a thirty day free trial. So does Photomechanic, which is very good at the basics and does meta data really well. Or you could get Nikons Capture NX2 that is what I use and LOVE!

Jim