I believe I've solved my own problem.   I downloaded and installed IE7 setup optimized for Google and now I'm working perfectly.  Thanks for your suggestion though.  I believe I already tried it without results.
I'm having a terrible time with Internet Explorer 7.  It barely functions.  I have Google set as its homepage.  When I open IE abd click on Favorites, the window will not open and I have to do a Ctrl, Alt, Del to end the program.  It appears not to be possible to uninstall IE and upgrading to IE8 didn't help.  I have since uninstalled IE8,  Any ideas, remedies will be greatly appreciated.
Internet Explorer 7 Woes