Rosiesdad,
  I'm sort of at that point as well.  I have tried each of the other suggestions posted above.  I do think I have caught some smaller issues and have learned a lot from each technique (Thanks, guys!) none have proven to make a substantial and sustained difference.
  I did find out that one of the websites I visit was having its own difficulties, but that didn't explain why all three browsers are still very slow and lock up regularly.  BTW, slow is 2 minutes to load a page and locking up happens about 5-10 times each evening, or until I tire of the game.
  Meanwhile, I will scrounge around for those original discs and do the clean install of XP.  I'd rather not buy Windows 7 because I understand the Win 8 beta is out next month and full sale this fall.  I'll probably upgrade then.
  Again, thanks to all who replied and offered suggestions.  I really do appreciate it.  Stetts