I will share this one other item with you. Sometimes when I'm having system glitch problems that I just can't track down and figure out how to solve, I've done this with some success. I reach down and hit my power switch off without going through the Start menu and selecting shut down. This will cause Windows to record an abnormal termination. Then when you turn the power back on Windows will offer to restart in Safe Mode and some other choices. Choose to restart Windows in the Last known good configuration. This doesn't allow you to find out what's caused the problem, but it sometimes makes the problem go away.

And, finally MsPooma since I'm just kinda of doing a brain dump on this. When setting screen resolution it is also important to check the color bit depth. A screen display that is set to 1280x1024 at 16bit color depth will have more pronounced jagged edges than a screen display that is set to 1280x1024 at 32bit color depth. Many graphics cards can be set for either mode. So please make sure, if you haven't already done so, to check the color depth setting on your graphics card and set it at the highst color quality 32bit. I hope this isn't redundant but, I'm just trying to make sure all the likely causes are checked.

I really appreciate all your help and everyone else as well. I do keep it at 32bit color. I have shut down Windows the way you mention (out of frustration), but it never offered me those options when starting back up. I think it is all going to boil down to a reinstallation of Windows....what a pain, but that is about the only sure fire way to solve this problem. Everyone has been so very helpful and patient with me.
Bless your hearts and thank you, Mary