Then the computer started freezing up, wouldn't let us run a virus scan, etc.

Finally our computer guy backed up most of our files onto an external hard drive, then wiped out everything on the computer and reinstalled XP ('cuz I still didn't want Vista). We're functioning again, but did lose some files that I forgot to ask him to save...I haven't got all the programs reinstalled, and Outlook Express may never work again (I'm kinda clueless on that one...but I'm not sure I really care).

I try not to demand tooooo much from our computer guy, 'cuz all he charges is a home-cooked dinner!! (Well...beginning to end it was three home-cooked dinners, with some left-overs "to go"! )