birdy - thanks for the info.

k, i uninstalled and then re-installed the version of java you recommended. i attempted to open LW again and the same thing occured. in frustration I began to hit every key over and over, when i noticed a green highlight jump from button to button when I hit the tab button. I was able to get through the setup dialog by tabbing and using the space bar to click onto whatever I want. now that LW is completely installed. Im at the search page, but again, I can not click on anything. So I'm back to square one. I can't do anything once I'm in LW. Please help!