I'm just starting to use Xmonad.  I've looked at some example configs, but I haven't been able to understand much.

I'm trying to figure out how to put a dzen bar at the bottom of my screen with a date and battery indicator.

My config file is here: http://pastebin.com/1uucAxvH
Other questions I have:
Assuming I have a separate chat workspace, could I have dzen flash that workspace when one of the windows wants attention?  Or more generally, can have dzen or xmonad signal me when a window wants attention?
Any advice in general for pidgin?
Any advice in general for anything?

I'm new to this, and it seems daunting, but I want to give it a chance.  Thank you for any advice you have.

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