Hi yourdaddy
Update your Java to MRJ 2.2.5 for OS 8.1-9.2 Even if you already have it, it won't do any harm installing it again. Doing so can often do the trick. And THIS POST is worth reading

Yes if you delete your LW prefs you will need to reset all your LW settings. So it's generally a good idea to make a note of them before you trash the prefs.

After installing new softw in mac comp's it's always a good idea to re-build your desktop; ie: hold down both the Command (/Apple)+Option keys whilst you restart the comp. Also have you checked your comp over with Disk 1st Aide & defragmented your HDD?

What connection devices do you use? What brand name & model number of modem & router do you use?

You said you hadn't used LW for a year. Do you still have incomplete files left over from that time? These files might have become stale. The days to complete incomplete option setting in your Options>Saving might mean your incomplete files have become redundant.