Yes, SpywareBlaster actually DOES NOT run in the background, it is not supposed to run. It sits there and protects really. Just keep it updated.
Everything else you have done is great. Are you able to set a new Restore Point?
Let me get ~TL to drop back in here on the changed icon problem and see what he thinks. I am sure we can get this straight also.
You might try this and see.....
Right click on the desktop...going to properties...slecting appearance.... changing size of Icons to large
Judy