I have been searching for the most simple note taking application after hearing the news google notebook shutting down. But all the other alternate application I found like EverNote, RememberTheMilk etc are not simple to use.
Piconote is the most simple to use free desktop note taking application which may seem really basic but it is equally effective to store pictures, hotlinks and multimedia or you can record just use text notes.
When ever you create a note with piconote, it will ask you whether you want to create a public or private note. You can synchronize your notes with the online server for free corresponding to your account on piconote.